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Volume 19 - No. 23 • 12 Pages

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Palace: Public interest on anti-terror bill DATELINE USA Undocumented will push Duterte to study it ‘even closer’ Filipinos encouraged from the AJPress NEWS TEAM across America

to apply for CA’s disaster relief fund

by Ritchel

Mendiola AJPress

Harry Roque in an interview with ABS-CBN News Channel’s Headstart.

On Tuesday, June 9 Malacañang confirmed that it has received a copy of the controversial bill.

When asked about the possibility of Duterte allowing the bill to lapse into law, Roque answered: “The President did certify (it) as urgent so he agrees with the principal author of the bill, Senator Ping Lacson, that there is a need for the law.”

The anti-terrorism bill, which seeks to strengthen

MALACAÑANG on Wednesday, June 10, said the protests against the anti-terrorism bill would push President Rodrigo Duterte to scrutinize the measure “even closer.”

UNDOCUMENTED Filipino immigrants “Let’s just say that the public interest on the bill in California are encouraged to apply for the will make the President review the provisions of the state’s disaster relief fund that grants up to bill even closer,” said presidential spokesperson $1,000 per household.

Governor Gavin Newsom in April announced the Disaster Relief Assistance for Immigrants (DRAI) program, a one-time fund of undocumented adults impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic who are not eligible for other forms of government relief, such as the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. An undocumented adult who qualifies can receive $500 in assistance, with a cap of $1,000 per household.

Applications began on May 18 until funding is spent or until June 30.

Twelve immigrant-serving nonprofit organizations have been selected to help individuals apply for and receive the funds in their region, including Asian Americans Advancing JusticeLos Angeles (Advancing Justice-LA) for Los Angeles and Orange counties.

The funding is expected to benefit about 150,000 undocumented immigrants.

The organization encouraged undocumented individuals in the Filipino American community to inquire if they are struggling financially due to the pandemic.

“Your status and personal information will remain confidential. Application is only available by phone,” it said.

Advancing Justice-LA operates a hotline at (213) 241-8874 for Tagalog and (213) 2418880 for English from Monday to Friday from PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY SHRINE. The Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite is the site of the proclamation of Philippine independence from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or until hotline queues reach Spain on June 12, 1898. This year marks the 122nd anniversary of the country’s Philippine Independence from the Spanish rule with the theme: “Kalayaan 2020: Tungo sa Bansang Malaya, Nagbabayanihan, at Ligtas (Towards a Free, United, and Safe Nation).” PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan u PAGE 4

the Human Security Act of 2007, grants any law enforcer the capacity to arrest and detain without warrant “a person suspected of committing any of the acts” punishable under the measure for 14 calendar days, extendable by 10 days. The suspected “terrorist” can also be placed under surveillance for 60 days, extendable by up to 30 more days, by the police or the military.

Acts punishable under the bill include: u PAGE 3

Fil-Ams sound off on tough conversations, being black allies and solidarity through art

by Rae

Ann Varona AJPress

Since footage emerged of a white police officer killing George Floyd, a 46-year-old unarmed black man from Minneapolis, protests have grown not only throughout the U.S., but throughout the world, demanding justice for the hundreds of black people who have died as a result from police brutality and discrimination.

As marches continue, so have discussions on how non-blacks — including many Filipino Americans — can stand with the black community and move away from a deep history of systemic racism through anti-racism and allyship.

“Fighting back is in our DNA,” Fil-Am activist Kalaya’an Mendoza told the Asian Journal.

Mendoza is a co-founder of Across Frontlines, an organization that works and trains with front line communities to protect themselves against state violence. u PAGE 3

Weathering two storms at once: How Fil-Am moms approach current Managing a revolution in a pandemic events, ‘the talk’ with their half-black kids

by Klarize

Medenilla AJPress

There’s no getting around it: times are tough on all fronts.

The current appraisal of law enforcement as we know it that is forcing the United States to redefine law, order and justice continues to permeate local, state and even federal bureaucracies in a way that prior Black Lives Matter-centered protests haven’t before.

Like all consequential political movements, this revolution is

comprehensive.

But the other battle that 2020 found itself in, the COVID-19 pandemic, persists in the background, rendering an arduous global theater that requires careful attention and cautious methodology: a virus doesn’t take days off for revolution.

That being said, the two storms the world has found itself in has opened up the door for a bevy of health problems.

As Dr. Tung Nguyen of the University of California, San Francisco put it in a press briefing on

Pacquiao denies talking about running for president with Arum

by Ritchel

Mendiola AJPress

PHILIPPINE Senator Manny Pacquiao on Tuesday, June 9, denied that he discussed his supposed plans to run for president with his former longtime promoter Bob Arum.

“We talked about Crawford, but we didn’t talk about politics,” he told ABS-CBN News’ Dyan Castillejo.

His statement came after Arum revealed that Pacquiao had confided to him about his intention to run for the presidency.

“I did a Zoom telephone call with him (Pacquaio), ‘Bob, I’m gonna run in 2022 and when I win, I want you there at my inauguration,” Arum said.

However, the 41-year-old senator stressed they only talked about a potential showdown with Terence Crawford, the undefeated WBO welterweight titleholder.

“Yes, we discussed the fight against Terence Crawford. Wala namang problema, maganda ‘yun (There’s no problem with that, it’s going to be a good u PAGE 3

Friday, June 5, these tumultuous times remind “us that the morbidity and mortality associated with COVID-19 include a worsening of other health problems due to competing priorities.”

At the press briefing — which was hosted by Ethnic Media Services and focused on the twopronged crisis centered mainly in the U.S. — experts discussed the myriad of ways in which the protests, police brutality and civil unrest are contributing to the mounting health crisis. u PAGE 4

by Christina

M. Oriel

AJPress

As protests continue across the United States for a second straight week, families are finding themselves having uncomfortable, yet crucial conversations about race, injustice and police brutality.

For many multicultural Filipino American families, these discussions are not new, but the latest events have renewed the national discourse and awareness around the systemic issues that disproportionately affect black Americans.

In her book “Raising Multicultural Children: Tools for Nurturing Identity in a Racialized World,” Farzana Nayani, a Filipina-Pakistani diversity, equity and inclusion specialist, made an argument for normalizing multiraciality and talking about race in a positive, nonstigmatized manner.

However, she recommended approaching the conversations holistically and with historical context to prevent children from gathering stereotypes or incomplete depictions of race from external influences.

“Conversations about race without talking about systemic inequity present an incomplete picture of reality and can do harm because they can leave children unprepared when facing chalPhilippine Senator Manny Pacquiao

Photo from Instagram/@pacquiaomanny lenges or new awareness to soci-

Jennifer Taylor (second from right) with her children Gregory, 17, Savannah, 22, and Jillian, 19, and husband Rod Photo courtesy of Jennifer Taylor

etal issues. It is important to teach our children and others around us how generations of systemic oppression and current unconscious bias, negative stereotyping, and explicit discrimination can and do happen due to race,”

Nayani wrote.

For Jennifer Taylor, a mother of two daughters ages 22 and 19 and one 17-year-old son in Arcadia, California, the self-education on raising a biracial family u PAGE 4

June 12-18, 2020 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

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(650) 689-5160 • http://www.asianjournal.com NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • June 12-18, 2020 rom the ront age

Palace: Public interest on anti-terror...

PAGE 1 t • Engaging in acts intended to cause death or serious bodily injury to any person, or endangers a person’s life; • Engaging in acts intended to cause extensive damage or destruction to a government or public facility, public place, or private property; • Engaging in acts intended to cause extensive interference with, damage, or destruction to critical infrastructure; • Developing, manufacturing, possessing, acquiring, transporting, supplying or using weapons; and Individuals attended a Black Lives Matter protest in Queens, New York this week, holding up “Asians for Black Lives” signs by Fil-Am • Releasing of dangerous subactivist Kalaya’an Mendoza. Photo by Hayley Ellen Day/courtesy of Kalaya’an Mendoza stances, or causing fire, floods or explosions.

Any person who will propose, incite, conspire, participate in PAGE 1 t racism, colorism, and justice, the African American commu- the planning, training, prepa“We should care about black especially in light of current nity,” added Lamagna. “Mistrust, people, because it’s about peo- events. disdain, fear — all these things ple’s humanity,” said Mendoza.

She shared that studying eth- have been prevalent in our com“We need to recognize their pain nic studies has been about cen- munity for far too long.”

PAGE 1 t and the pain that they have ex- tering the history of indigenous, Solidarity through art perienced, since they have been African American, Filipino, and Art has long been a medium fight),” Pacquiao said. forcefully brought here to the US. other communities of color and capable of sending messages of He added that he will only reAnd there are many black people the important ways in which they solidarity. In the days following turn to the boxing ring once a in our community who are fully have shaped America.

Floyd’s death, many have used vaccine for the novel coronavirus connected and black. We need “We are constantly trying to their talents in creating tributes (COVID-19) has been developed. to support and love them in this unlearn a lot of history and norms to the movement and those who “[Lalaban tayo] pagka-may time of pain.” in order to liberate our minds died as a result of discrimination. vaccine na ‘yung coronavirus.

Sharing the knowledge both from the many things we have Mendoza’s illustration — which Depende naman pagka safe na on and offline been taught by colonization,” featured a black fist against a ang mga tao at para for my own Czarina Jimenez, a Fil-Am el- said Sarmiento. “These conver- brown background with words good (I’ll only fight if there’s alementary music teacher, podcast sations are even more relevant reading “Filipino/a/x for Black ready a vaccine for the coronavihost, and education advocate, especially with older members Lives” — was widely shared on rus. It will depend on if it’s safe has been using her voice on so- of our families because Filipinos social media and brought out to for the people and it’s also for my cial media to forward people to tend to think racism in America protests, with many requesting own good),” he said. resources, information, and black is obsolete.” the sign be made with other eth‘Vote wisely’ creatives and businesses.

Her mom Christine Bustos nic groups, such as Hmong, Thai, Arum’s statement about PacJimenez and Pinay-owned skin- Sarmiento, a musician in San u PAGE 4 quiao’s political plan sparked care brand Kaya Essentials host- Francisco, has also been getting ed a giveaway contest, encourag- involved in discussions on race. ing their Instagram followers to A post she shared on Facebook share on steps they were taking showed numerous photos from to be anti-racist offline. history when Filipinos were exComments, mostly from Asian periencing racism under America American and Pacific Islander — one being a U.S. Navy Dispen(AAPI) women, poured out with sary Blood Test site labeled for suggestions with actions like blacks and Filipinos. having conversations with family Since posted, it has been members, watching documen- shared over 21,000 times, mostly taries on black stories, listening by Filipinos unaware of the histo informative podcasts, and dis- tory behind the photos. cussing books on black narratives “I had to figure out a way to rein book clubs. mind our family and friends that “I believe that we Filipinos are Filipinos are no strangers when it some of the most generous and comes to racism and that because caring people in the world. It of this, we have an obligation to breaks my heart that many refuse help,” said Bustos Sarmiento. to extend that same kindness to “The struggles that Filipinos our Black siblings,” Jimenez told had to endure in America are the Asian Journal. “I firmly be- nowhere near in comparison to lieve that our liberation is bound what black people have had to together.” face in the past and continue to As an educator, Jimenez said face today.” that it’s important to acknowlMendoza did emphasize the edge that much of the history importance of first addressing learned in schools is either in- individuals’ biases against black complete or inaccurate. Many people. times, history lessons fail to teach “When you’ve been able to students, especially those of col- identify and interrogate that, or, of the activists and organizers then think about ways that you that represent them. For Fil-Ams, can show up for black folks in the leaders would include the Delano community,” said Mendoza.

Manongs and Grace Lee Boggs.

Allyship in business “We need to show our youth On Tuesday, June 2 many how they organized across ra- companies joined major music cial lines. We need to teach our companies in participating in young people how to ask the hard “Blackout Tuesday,” a day that questions and lean into self-re- was meant for companies to put flection. We need to provide op- a pause on regular business and portunities to strengthen agency, “reconnect” with their communicultural humility and curiosity, ties. While there was some conand a deeper understanding of fusion as to how to participate, our own complex identities. We the momentum of the Black Lives need to decolonize our idea of Matter movement did encourage what it means to be Filipino,” businesses and owners to reflect said Jimenez. on how their practices could be Allyship between blacks and more inclusive and active in antiFilipinos goes deep into Filipino racism. history, for example, with the first In addition to encouraging black soldier for the U.S. military, anti-racist discussions and sharCaptain David Fagan, defecting ing a list of organizations providduring the Philippine American ing service for the black commuWar and joining Filipinos who nity, Kaya Essentials decided to were fighting U.S. imperialism. donate 20% of its sales to lead“Black people have shown ing organizations for the month solidarity and support for our of June, as well as match donapeople,” explained Mendoza. tions up to $5,000.

“Without black organizers and “This past week, our hearts activists, the 1965 Immigration have been heavy,” the company and Nationality Act would never wrote on Instagram. “We’re comhave passed and so many of our mitted to what the pandemic has families would have been able to also highlighted — the injustice come with us.” and systemic racism that has Discussing racism at home continued for too long.”

Talking about racism at home Carlo Lamagna, owner of Filican be uncomfortable for many pino restaurant Magna Kusina in non-blacks, including Filipinos. Portland, Oregon, also decided However, part of striving to be to donate a portion of his restauanti-racist is being able to ad- rant’s proceeds to organizations dress instances of anti-blackness advocating for the black commuand racism among close friends nity such as Campaign Zero, Acand relatives. tion Bail Fund, and Black Visions For example, skin color has Collective. been a common issue in many His restaurant has been donatFilipino families that may have ing meals to community shelters, for generations, admired whiter underserved communities, and skin. front line workers amid the CO“I am a darker-brown skinned VID-19 pandemic.

Filipina with curly hair and I “We the people are taking the was always teased by titas. I was power back into our own hands,” called burnt toast and directed Lamagna, who had just finished to stay out of the sun,” said Ji- a march with his community, told menez. the Asian Journal.

Mendoza too recalled relatives “There are some hard truths always telling him to avoid going that Filipinos need to realize. Far outside to prevent his skin from too long have we stood quietly on getting dark. the sideline, letting these things “There [are] little ways we can pass,” said Lamagna. “How many address that,” said Mendoza. of the generations before us ad“There are ways we can shift our opted the idea that we need to culture, away from anti-black- assimilate and stay as hidden as ness, embracing our brownness, possible? How many times have embracing our Filipino-ness, and we been insulted and berated, supporting black lives.” only to suck it up and allow it to Kailyne Sarmiento, a 22-year- happen, complaining quietly in old student ethnic studies major the corner with our fellow comat City College of San Francisco, munity?” said her family has been having “Let’s also address the racism conversations centered around that we too have adopted, against

Fil-Ams sound off on tough conversations...

ration, and facilitation of a terrorist act; as well as those who will provide material support to terrorists, and recruit members in a terrorist organization will also be penalized by life imprisonment without the benefit of parole.

Meanwhile, anyone who will threaten to commit terrorism, and those who will propose any terroristic acts or incite others to commit terrorism will suffer imprisonment of 12 years.

This also goes for anyone who will voluntarily and knowingly join any organization, association or group of persons knowing that such is a terrorist organization.

Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, who voted against the passage of the bill, pointed out that the bill’s vague provisions leave it prone to abuse.

“Given the authoritarian bent of the current administration... when these excesses are happening, who is to be confident that this law will not be abused or used to go after critics?” he said Wednesday in an interview on ABS-CBN News Channel.

He also cited the cases of Sen. Leila De Lima as well as ousted Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno who are both critics of Duterte and his drug war.

“The 6,000 [deaths in] police encounters in drug war, they were said to have fought arrest.

Then one who may be detained for 24 days under the anti-terrorism bill, they may also be accused of fighting back that’s why they would be killed,” Pangilinan continued in Filipino.

“That is what we are afraid of,” he added. n

Pacquiao denies talking about running for... concern among Filipino netizens, who questioned his capability to run the country and who urged Filipinos to vote wisely.

“Pacquiao is thinking of running as president in the 2022 elections. Hindi pagkatao ang pinaguusapan dito (His personality isn’t the one up for discussion) but his capability. He can’t even defend his stand during debates,” one Twitter user posted.

“May this be a reminder not to make the same mistake you did in 2016. Please vote wisely sa (on) #Halalan2022,” she added.

“So, Pacquiao is planning to

run for president this 2022 elections? I hope Filipinos won’t make the same mistake again, 2016 elections was a nightmare and it still haunts me up to this day. We don’t want another homophobe, who’s clearly illequipped, lead this country,” another user tweeted.

“I salute Pacquiao’s compassion for the people, and as our pride as an athlete, but not his capability of running for the presidency. Pls. vote WISELY this 2022. We should take (into) consideration the future of our country when voting for the next leader,” said another. n

June 12-18, 2020 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

Dateline Philippines

How Fil-Am moms approach current events...

PAGE 1 t began as early as when she was pregnant with her first child to anticipate future questions and curiosity about being both Filipino and black. Through the years, she and her husband have been candid and truthful about American society’s treatment towards black Americans.

“I have been reading books on interracial and multicultural parenting since I was pregnant with my first child so I knew that the conversation about colorism and their mixed identity had to happen at a young age,” Taylor told the Asian Journal. “My husband and I have always been open in conversations and not sheltering the kids from the harsh reality of anti-blackness. There’s no need to candy coat hate.”

One particular book Taylor found helpful to read to her children is “I’m Chocolate, You’re Vanilla: Raising Healthy Black and Biracial Children in a Race Conscious World” by Marguerite Wright. Reaching out to friends and family members who are black has also helped through the years and inspired her and her daughters to start Swirls for Girls, a non-profit organization for multicultural girls and their caregivers in the Los Angeles area.

Monica Alvarez-Mitchell, a mother of four between the ages of 22 to 14 in the New York area, said the awareness of race began around the age of five when her eldest son was in school and a classmate called him black. Experts say the start of schooling is around the time when children begin to ask questions about the differences they perceive in others.

“My son didn’t know that he was black because his skin was light. So it became important that we explained why he was being called black. My son was confused about skin color versus culture,” Alvarez-Mitchell told the Asian Journal. “We had to explain that cultures defines identity and

Maria Hendy (right) with her husband Stuart and their daughter, Harmony, and adopted sons, James and Matthew.

that being black and Filipino was pretty special because we had two cultures to call our own. Despite what anyone says or how they say it, be proud because we were not only equal but in some ways even luckier than others.”

Jennifer Fontanilla, a mom in La Palma, California, similarly said that at the age of 4, her son began asking why his father has a darker skin tone. Other conversations have come along the way as her son, who is now 9 years old, is more becoming more perceptive of the world around him.

“I had to explain that there are different cultures and races and that that is ok and a beautiful thing because ‘we created you.’

Every stage is different and each conversation is started because of a new encounter of information,” she told the Asian Journal.

While history classes at school cover certain historical moments like slavery, segregation and the civil rights movement, Fontanilla has sought other venues for teaching her son about black history, such as going to museums and watching movies.

“Of course this needs to be appropriate. I remember my son watched ‘Hidden Figures’ with me and it gave him the perspective of how black women were treated in the workplace. What’s impor-

tant for him to note is how white people mistreated these people based upon the color of their skin and see how life back then included using separate bathrooms and drinking fountains,” she said.

An added layer for black families is “the talk” about what to do and not do when confronted by a police officer.

Taylor said she and her husband spoke to their children when they were preteens about how to manage if they are stopped.

“I don’t remember the exact words, but I do remember that it made me sad and mad enough to secretly excuse myself from the dinner table and cry alone in the bathroom. I never had those talks as a young Filipina girl. I do know what it feels like to be thought of and treated inhumanely,” Taylor said.

For Alvarez-Mitchell, it was brought up following the death of Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old black unarmed teenager who was shot by a neighborhood watch volunteer in Florida in 2012. Martin’s death and the acquittal of his murderer subsequently ignited the Black Lives Matter global movement.

Her children were told to be aware of their surroundings, to not be out and about alone, and to stay calm and not escalate a

situation if someone is trying to harm them. When her older kids got their driver’s licenses, the conversations shifted to what to do if they get pulled over, which included tips like keeping hands visible and to not fight back with the cops.

“These were very no-nonsense conversations. We simply had to tell them that this is the reality they have to deal with. I remember that they asked questions about what if the cops did this or that,” Alvarez-Mitchell said. “We had to tell them the truth: that a cop can do whatever to them, they simply must take it. Even if the cop does anything wrong, the only focus is to get away from the cops [and out] of the situation alive.”

Following the more recent deaths of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd, families are balancing the collective emotions in the household as well as how they can stand in solidarity and use their voices.

It’s important that parents create a space for their kids to process the events, especially as graphic images and videos are played out online and on the news — including the videos of Arbery and Floyd which have been widely shared.

As children often receive cues from their parents, Fontanilla made it a point to remain calm when reacting to current events and passing the information to her son in terms he could grasp.

It also initiated part of “the talk” between the two of them.

“I had to explain that the events are not just stemming from one incident but rather a culmination of what has been happening for centuries. I had to explain about how we are to treat and respect different cultures and that not all cops are bad. If he hears anything that is hurtful, he needs to remember that those are lies and not the truth. I reminded him that it will hurt and I saw that it made him sad as the tears welled up in his eyes. I started introducing the idea to him that he needs to be aware that as a black person, there are things that he needs to

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160 take extra precautions on because of his skin color,” Fontanilla said.

Maria Hendy, a mother in Burbank, California, said that while there were no explicit discussions about racism and discrimination through the years, her 19-yearold daughter Harmony is participating in protests and engages in discussions at home about what she sees in the media.

“Now that she is 19 and these protests are going on, she is listening and she has the understanding of the situation. We will watch the news together and she will listen to what her dad will say. She has several friends that are walking [in] the protests and she will tell us that there are some incidents on the protests that are not being shown on TV,” Hendy told the Asian Journal.

As Taylor’s children are now young adults, they are processing and reacting to the events differently in their own ways, but she and her husband reiterate that they are “strong, smart and resilient.”

“We are having raw conversations about the injustice of being black. One of my kids is angry that her non-black friends and family did not know how much pain black people are in and what has led up to this point. Another one of my kids feels that nothing is going to change and has resigned to life being unfair,” Taylor said.

“We are still in the middle of the storm so it is hard to say how we will come out with this. But we are giving our kids the room to express their emotions and individually letting them approach the issue with whatever they feel is best for them.”

While the whirlwind of emotions is valid, Alvarez-Mitchell’s family is trying to be proactive and see a glimmer of hope in the protests and calls for change.

“We have a myriad of emotions from sad to angry to frustrated to helpless at times. But we accept that this is our reality. So now are trying to focus our efforts on how to create change. We are focused on protesting, educating our social circles of the black American

reality and changing the narratives we are seeing from certain media outlets. We are also trying to keep some level of hope through it all,” she said.

On social media, many Fil-Ams have expressed the tough discussions they’ve been having with older relatives about anti-blackness, colorism, colonial mentality and internalized racism.

For biracial Fil-Ams, they have shared encountering microaggressions or ignorant remarks from other Filipinos or even extended family members about the color of their skin or their appearance.

“There are ignorant people who do not understand the damaging effects that are said, and that can come from people you would least expect it to come from. In the Filipino culture, one of the saddest things I have experienced is that there is no tact. Statements are said almost with no regard, [like] ‘You’re taba!’ or ‘Sobrang itim mo!’ The part that is sad is that in our culture, we’re taught to respect our elders. So this makes it difficult when we want to defend what is right, but then that can come off disrespectful when you’re trying to make your point and correct what is wrong,” Fontanilla said.

Alvarez-Mitchell emphasized that their children have the right to respond and express how certain comments have made them feel but to be respectful in the delivery. It can also be a teaching moment for both parties.

“Stay patient. Family is important. So try to forgive ignorance and focus on love and respect for your family member. Even when you are pushed by them, stay calm,” she said. “When family gets too much to bear, express your feelings. Be firm about how you see things. Never let a family member’s misguided beliefs go without stating your differing point of view. Your voice matters.

But remember that you won’t always change their opinion or vice versa. Just ensure you family does not minimize your opinion or voice.” n

Fil-Ams sound off on tough conversations... Undocumented Filipinos encouraged to apply...

PAGE 3 t and Indian.

“This was essentially a solidarity offering to the black community. It represents following black leadership, and I wanted it to be a mirror and really a reflection of how we can show up for black lives right now,” said Mendoza, adding that it’s also an invitation to non-blacks, especially those of color, to stand in solidarity.

“It’s also an invitation to nonblack people of color throughout the United States and all over the world to show up for black lives right now One Fil-Am artist from San Francisco used her art to raise donations to organizations supporting the Black Lives Matter movement.

Shared on Instagram stories and feeds was an illustration featuring two bandana-wearing ladies — one Filipina and one black — posing like Rosie the Riveter under a text box that read, “Filipinx for Black Lives.”

“I made the piece because I wanted to take action, something more than just sharing on social media,” said Stephanie Acedillo, the artist behind the widely shared illustration.

For every donation of at least $20 made by followers who sent her a donation receipt, she sketched a person or character of the donor’s choice. Acedillo was quickly able to raise $3,500 in donations through her illustrations.

“I think Fil-Ams could be allies through our own self-reflection, within our own families and communities. Put the ego aside and truly see America for what it is, then act on it in what ways we can,” said Acedillo, humbly add-

ing that she was not a speaker, but an artist.

Filipino artist Sean Eidder paid tribute to the movement, despite being based in Manila, Philippines.

His piece featured yellow tigers and black panthers, which he said was a visual interpretation of a quote by Maya Angelou that communicated his sentiments towards George Floyd and the black community. Posterized on the piece was the phrase, “Yellow Peril Supports Black power” — a phrase brand consultant Jan Vicent Gonzalez of the Filipino catering New York-based brand consultation company Mercado Vicente asked him to add.

Eidder admitted that he didn’t understand the phrase at first, but used it as an opportunity to read about it in depth.

“Asians, Filipinos in particular, would understand the plight of the Black community more than anyone else,” said Eidder, explaining that both histories of blacks and Filipinos have involved being “modernized” by colonial rule through a lens that saw them as “uncultured savages” or “primitives.”

“Years of cultural shift under multiple Western influences played a huge role [in] the Filipinos’ acquiring the colonizers’ ideas of white supremacy that then resulted in the success of a variety of whitening industries and a milieu where we religiously obsess over cultures of the West,” said Eidder. “The Filipinos and the black community should find solidarity in our parallel crusade to abolish the racist beliefs that reign supreme.”

Going forward

Despite the momentum of the Black Lives Matter movement showing no signs of slowing down, advocates have emphasized the importance of making sure we continue to learn and strive for anti-racism in our everyday lives even as marches eventually end.

Many have been sharing resources on books, podcasts, and films reintroducing the history of blacks in America.

Widely shared, for example, has been African American author Ibram X. Kendi’s book “Stamped from the Beginning,” which explores the history of racist ideas in America and is available for free streaming on Spotify.

Mendoza, who has also been sharing resources on his Instagram @kalamendoza, said a quick Google search would bring people to great organizations and resources.

“This is your home, and therefore you have a stake in it. Learn how to use it to advocate for yourself and for others,” said Jimenez.

“Your dreams and aspirations are important. Do not let the ‘model minority myth’ dictate who you will be. Learn your own history and craft your own future.”

“We have an opportunity to change, to fight, and to become better. We are here now, uniting next to our brothers and sisters in the African American community for the injustices that have been happening to them for hundreds of years,” said Lamagna.

“Continue teaching our youth and the generations to come to stand up for themselves and others, to love one another, and to fight those that seek to oppress the weak.” n

PAGE 1 t

capacity.

The organization also warned the community of potential scams that may be masking as DRAI assistance.

The California Department of Social Services will never contact

applicants regarding the program or ask about social security numbers or any financial information.

Applicants will be asked for eligibility information and documents by the nonprofit organization they contact to apply for assistance.

There is no fee to apply for DRAI and there is no waiting list, the organization said.

If the application is approved, individuals should expect to receive the bank card within two to three weeks after submission.

(AJPress)

Weathering two storms at once: Managing...

PAGE 1 “The underlying causes of health disparities are the social determinants of health, and they include poverty, education, environment and health care access,” Nguyen continued, equating racism to physical viral infections that cause detriment to the body and mind.

“We know that racism is often thought to be one of these determinants as well because we know that chronic exposure to racism causes the body to change adversely through the release of stress hormones and neurotransmitters.”

The racism, in this case, involves the disturbing pattern of police using brute, fatal force against unarmed Black individuals. The recent killings of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd have catalyzed protests across the world, forcing governments to reckon with the deeply-rooted racism that continues to pulse through agencies designed to protect the public.

Besides the known damaging effects of systemic racism and bias, the protests themselves have also brought forth new health concerns. Recently, health experts like Nguyen have advised against the use of tear gas, which police squads across the country have been throwing at protesters to quell the demonstrations.

A 22-year-old woman in Ohio died on May 28 from exposure to tear gas and pepper spray “discharged by police” at a protest two days before, the woman’s father told the local coroner’s office, according to a New York Post report.

There have been 1.8 million infections and more than 107,000 deaths related to the COVID-19 virus in the U.S. as of Tuesday, June 9. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), those numbers are expected to skyrocket as more and more parts of the country begin re-opening and protests continue without following social distance guidelines.

Following those variables, the CDC predicts between 118,000 to 243,000 deaths by June 27, before most vaccines will be ready to advance to testing phases. Currently, there are 17 vaccines for the COVID-19 virus undergoing human trials, including an early vaccine called Moderna, which is expected to the third phase of testing before health experts determine its efficacy.

But Nguyen noted that testing for the Moderna vaccine isn’t ex-

pected until well into July.

Nguyen noted that the COVID19 pandemic has put into sharp relief the existing impairments in the American health care system, brought on by politics that inhibit the possibility of an equitable system of care.

“In my view, [the pandemic] has severely stressed all our dysfunctional systems — the health, economic, legal and political — to their limits and broke them,” Nguyen remarked. “We can no longer pretend that they are good enough, and they were never good enough except for those of us who enjoy [the] privilege.”

The construct of racism that has infiltrated institutions, bureaucracies and everyday encounters is all-encompassing. You can’t talk about unemployment, poor education, food insecurity and climate change without bringing up racial disparities and the disproportionality of black and brown Americans to suffer from these flawed systems, Nguyen said.

“Racism is a disease and police brutality is a disease vector, much like the job of a physician and in public health interventionists are the same: control the vectors and eradicate the disease,” Nguyen said.

Eradicating a disease like racism, to most people, feels like a fool’s errand. Racism as a social construct has been around since the beginning of civilization, and although contemporary society can largely agree that racism is bad, pinpointing the finer ways that racism seeps into nearly every space of modern life has become more muddled.

In national public health and safety crises, empathy plays an enormous role, but when these crises largely target the Black community, empathy isn’t guaranteed, according to Jody D. Armour, the Roy P. Crocker Professor of Law at the University of Southern California.

As a professor specializing in racial injustice, Armour discussed the phenomenon of ingroup empathy bias wherein the care and empathy directed towards one group isn’t directed to other groups of society.

Armour referenced the lack of urgency among health and disaster agencies regarding Hurricane Katrina. It took days for the Federal Emergency Management Agency to respond to the majority-Black communities that found their homes destroyed and lives in danger, but instances like 9/11 triggered “a panic of empathy”

and immediate relief.

“It happens on a neuronal level and it’s not even conscious a lot of the time, but the bottom line is we have relative indifference to the suffering of those who don’t belong to our in-group,” Armour explained.

In addition to supplementing the immediate courses of action that activists are advocating for — reallocating police budgets to homelessness, education and other public services that directly benefit lower-income communities of color — comprehensive cultural reckoning and undoing have to occur at the community level first.

The Asian American community isn’t detached from the conversation of systemic anti-Black racism.

John C. Yang, president and executive director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC, stressed the importance of standing up for the Black American community as Asians, a group that has “not always stood up for the African American community in this cause.”

As the Asian Journal has extensively written, news coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic has fomented racism and discrimination targeted at the Asian American community. Microaggressions, bullying, Zoom bombs and in some cases violence has plagued the community, kickstarting many social media campaigns by Asian Americans to bring awareness to the issue and to come up with solutions to mitigate anti-Asian sentiments.

That being said, it would be at odds to ignore the current and ongoing fight to end police brutality, and Asian Americans who’ve previously neglected to stand with the Black community should now show solidarity, Yang said.

“That has to change,” Yang said. He referenced Tou Thao, the Hmong-American officer who stood by and didn’t intervene with the officer who knelt on George Floyd’s neck as he died, and how Thao’s behavior highlights the flawed racial dynamics within the Asian American community. (Thao was later charged with aiding and abetting second-degree murder and aiding and abetting second-degree manslaughter.)

“We recognize that there is racism within our own community and that we recognize that is part of systemic racism, so part of the solution is having those hard conversations with our own community,” Yang shared. n

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O PINION A continuing trade AMID the pandemic, President Rodrigo Duterte is again fulminating against the priority targets of his administration: drug dealers. In his address to the nation last week, the President reiterated his promise to kill drug traffickers.

The statement was prompted by a series of shabu busts conducted by law enforcers even amid various levels of lockdowns imposed nationwide to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. A day before the President’s warning, a police raid on a house in Marilao, Bulacan led to the confiscation of 756 kilos of shabu valued at P5.1 billion.

Perhaps the COVID-19 quarantine and the consequent widespread loss of livelihoods made the illegal but highly lucrative drug trade more attractive.

Despite the President’s reiteration of his warning, police on Saturday afternoon, June 6, seized another 36 kilos of shabu with an estimated street value of P244.8 million in Tambo, Parañaque. Chinese suspect Jin Long Cai and his Filipino companion Danny Apiga were shot dead in the sting.

Where do such massive amounts of prohibited drugs come from? Methamphetamine hydrochloride can be manufactured in home laboratories, but the precursor drugs need to be imported. The biggest

FEATURES

source of both precursors and finished shabu has been China.

The former head of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Aaron Aquino, had openly lamented that one of the weakest links in the war on illegal drugs is the Bureau of Customs. Aquino had pointed to the biggest drug hauls of the PDEA, with the contraband brought in right through the country’s ports. Either BOC personnel are sleeping on the job or are in cahoots with the drug traffickers. Authorities must find out, and determine if any crooked officials may be involved in the continuing shabu trafficking operations.

Authorities must also tighten screening of the entry of Chinese nationals, who for some time have enjoyed the privilege of obtaining tourist visas on arrival in the Philippines and then disappearing from the state’s radar. Even their own government is looking for Chinese lawbreakers, wherever they may be in the world.

The illegal drug trade is hugely profitable, and traffickers rarely take a rest. With law enforcers busy enforcing quarantine rules, the traffickers should not be allowed to take advantage of the pandemic to grow their business. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

The Fil-Am Perspective Gel Santos-Relos PRO-LIFE. Anti-abortion. Antiillegal immigration. Rule of law.

Conservatism. Christian faith and values. Lower taxes. Fiscal responsibility.

These are the core issues close to our hearts as Filipinos in America, making many kababayans lean Republican instead of the prochoice, more inclusive, more tolerant and progressive Democratic Party.

In the many presidential debates I moderated for The Filipino Channel’s daily newscast “Balitang America,” I heard how these fundamental reasons have compelled Filipinos in America, especially those who have been here for decades, to vote for whoever is the Republican nominee.

For more than a decade, I have witnessed how Fil-Ams of different political affiliations and principles have agreed to disagree and remained respectful of each other’s differing opinions and made a deliberate decision to remain friends despite the political divide.

Those who were in the middle, unaffiliated, and independent had a hard time deciding because almost always, the nominees were all of good character and personal integrity, that the factors they had to consider would just be the platform offered by each nominee and their party.

Sure there were a few “personalan”, digging some dirt against the opposing party and nominee, but the engagement of kababayans with each other was generally civil and courteous…until Donald Trump ran for President in 2016.

From then on, the engagement, even among Filipinos in America, became vile, toxic, divisive and destructive.

I do not know which of Trump’s attributes caused these qualities and attracted some kababayans to

Philstar.com photo

Dear Filipinos in America: It is time to let go of fanaticism and call out Trump for betraying his oath to the Constitution be blindly loyal to him — the self-professed billionaire reality show star who loved “firing people”; the self-absorbed man who would pretend to be a different person who would personally call reporters from media outlets to reveal juicy stories as “Trump’s publicist”; the white, rich, powerful businessman who is so obsessed with Barack Obama, so much that he would fabricate conspiracy theories that the first African American president of the United States was not really born in America but in Kenya or Indonesia, raising doubts in the hearts and minds of people who, like him, were not ready to accept that Black people can also be president.

Probably the rise of social media also factored in, because for the first time, we have witnessed the immense power of technology in sharing their comments online, hiding behind a different name or alias, posting comments without thinking of the content and the tone of their rhetoric.

We have been taken aback by how different social media platforms could also be used to spread fake news stories by questionable news organizations and paid trolls whose objective was to destroy political opponents no matter what the cost.

Perhaps, this toxicity is spreading like a virus because of the man who takes pride in modeling this kind of behavior and rhetoric. Sadly, not only the people who adore him as his loyal fans emulate him. The party of Lincoln, Reagan and Bush is now likewise hijacked by Trump, and those in the executive and legislative branches who wanted to hold on to power by riding in Trump’s popularity abandoned the very conservative values that used to define the GOP (Grand Old Party).

“The presidency does not

change a person but reveals his true character”, paraphrasing Former First Lady Michelle Obama. For three years — issue after issue — we have seen Trump dig deeper into a bottomless pit, and sadly, he is pulling the nation and the American people in his quagmire.

His unbridled, unhinged and irresponsible use of the power Office of the President and the bully pulpit that goes with the office without regard to the truth and facts to destroy people, American institutions, news organizations, businesses and industries critical of him and against his personal agenda; his inhumane treatment of immigrants, especially people of color — both undocumented and documented, including refugees; his betrayal of public trust as revealed by the Mueller report, his pro-rich anti-poor economic policies that have made the leagues of billionaires and millionaires become richer as ordinary hard-working Americans become poorer without decent living wages and social services meant to be the equalizer for them to rise higher; to the way he handled the COVID-19 pandemic, prioritizing his political agenda over the safety of the American people, denying facts and science, using religion in his reality show presidency — these are but a few examples.

And now this, the heartless killing of another Black man in the hands of the police just ignited the anger of Black people, people of color and their supporters. Individuals around the country are risking their lives amid a pandemic to protest against racism, racial injustice, police brutality and Trump’s fanning the flame of division in response to this crisis.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Donald Trump has betrayed the American people and the oath he took when he was sworn in as presi-

dent — to defend and protect the Constitution and be the president of ALL Americans.

Do not take my word or opinion for it. Listen to leaders of his own party who are out there in a limb protecting the conservative values of principles of their party.

Listen to Constitutional scholars, listen to historians, open your eyes to how his actions betray his promises, and how his rhetoric betrays his own claim.

Read this piece written and signed by 89 former defense officials, published by the Washington Post on June 5, 2020: President Trump continues to use inflammatory language as many Americans protest the unlawful death of George Floyd and the unjust treatment of black Americans by our justice system.

As the protests have grown, so has the intensity of the president’s rhetoric. He has gone so far as to make a shocking promise: to send active-duty members of the U.S. military to “dominate” protesters in cities throughout the country — with or without the consent of local mayors or state governors.

On Monday, the president previewed his approach on the streets of Washington. He had 1,600 troops from around the country transported to the D.C. area, and placed them on alert, as an unnamed Pentagon official put it, “to ensure faster employment if necessary.” As part of the show of force that Trump demanded, military helicopters made low-level passes over peaceful protesters — a military tactic sometimes used to disperse enemy combatants — scattering debris and broken glass among the crowd. He also had a force, including members of the National Guard and federal officers, that used flash-bang grenades, pepper spray and, according to eyewitness accounts, rubber bullets to drive lawful protesters, as well as members of

the media and clergy, away from the historic St. John’s Episcopal Church. All so he could hold a politically motivated photo op there with members of his team, including, inappropriately, Defense Secretary Mark T. Esper and Gen. Mark A. Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Looting and violence are unacceptable acts, and perpetrators should be arrested and duly tried under the law. But as Monday’s actions near the White House demonstrated, those committing such acts are largely on the margins of the vast majority of predominantly peaceful protests.

While several past presidents have called on our armed services to provide additional aid to law enforcement in times of national crisis — among them Ulysses S. Grant, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson — these presidents used the military to protect the rights of Americans, not to violate them.

As former leaders in the Defense Department — civilian and military, Republican, Democrat and independent — we all took an oath upon assuming office “to support and defend the Constitution of the United States,” as did the president and all members of the military, a fact that Gen. Milley pointed out in a recent memorandum to members of the armed forces. We are alarmed at how the president is betraying this oath by threatening to order members of the U.S. military to violate the rights of their fellow Americans.

President Trump has given governors a stark choice: either end the protests that continue to demand equal justice under our laws, or expect that he will send active-duty military units into their states. While the Insurrection Act gives the president the legal authority to do so, this authority has been invoked only in the most extreme conditions

when state or local authorities were overwhelmed and were unable to safeguard the rule of law.

Historically, as Secretary Esper has pointed out, it has rightly been seen as a tool of last resort.

Beyond being unnecessary, using our military to quell protests across the country would also be unwise. This is not the mission our armed forces signed up for: They signed up to fight our nation’s enemies and to secure — not infringe upon — the rights and freedoms of their fellow Americans. In addition, putting our servicemen and women in the middle of politically charged domestic unrest risks undermining the apolitical nature of the military that is so essential to our democracy. It also risks diminishing Americans’ trust in our military — and thus America’s security — for years to come.

As defense leaders who share a deep commitment to the Constitution, to freedom and justice for all Americans, and to the extraordinary men and women who volunteer to serve and protect our nation, we call on the president to immediately end his plans to send active-duty military personnel into cities as agents of law enforcement, or to employ them or any another military or police forces in ways that undermine the constitutional rights of Americans. The members of our military are always ready to serve in our nation’s defense. But they must never be used to violate the rights of those they are sworn to protect. *** Gel Santos Relos has been in news, talk, public service and educational broadcasting since 1989 with ABS-CBN and is now serving the Filipino audience using different platforms, including digital broadcasting, and print, and is working on a new public service program for the community.

You may contact her through email at gelrelos@ icloud.com, or send her a message via Facebook at Facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos.

How a Filipino American immigrant unlearned racism Commentary

Jon Melegrito I will confess that I’ve had anti-Black sentiments. I don’t make any excuses. When we first moved to Washington DC, we moved into an apartment that was predominantly Black. It was in the ‘60s and we just got married. And there was a swimming pool in our apartment and I told my wife not to go because a lot of Blacks go there. We thought

that the pool was dirty and dangerous.

I’m ashamed to think about this now, because it’s despicable – but this was the level of thinking we had when we first immigrated into America. We were conditioned to think of Blacks as inferior through American media in the Philippines. It took me a while to understand that this type of thinking had no place. I had to educate and unlearn myself to liberate from racism.

This painful process of unlearning happens when you study history. The author Carlos Bulosan wrote about Filipinos being treated like dogs in the past in America. And now you compare that to Black communi-

ties – the way they are mistreated and unjustly regarded, especially in light of Black Lives Matter.

There are a lot of commonalities between Filipinos and African Americans.

I have two granddaughters.

In my old age, I find that if I do anything worthwhile for the rest of my life, it’s to dedicate myself to making sure that they inherit a world where there is social justice and that there’s a good relationship among races. After all, the struggle of Black communities for justice and equality is also our struggle, and it is part of the American story.

This story was originally published in 2016 via AARP x NextDayBetter storytelling campaign.

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The Statue of Liberty versus public charge

Immigration Corner Atty. Michael Gurfinkel, ESQ

ADMITTING TO DRUG USE RESULTED IN LIFETIME BAN FROM ENTERING THE US! Junior (left) was looking forward to joining his wife, Marissa (center), in the U.S. Marissa filed the petition and all the necessary paperwork was in order, including an interview at the U.S. Embassy. However, they received the news that Junior was banned from entering the U.S. for life due to drug use. The couple was heartbroken. They were wondering if Marissa had to give up a good job in the U.S. just to be with Junior back in the Philippines. Marissa consulted one other lawyer, who gave up based on the medical documents from St. Luke’s, saying they could not defend Junior’s case. Fortunately, friends and family had seen an episode of Citizen Pinoy where the case was like Junior’s. A consultation with leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel provided hope and the much-anticipated reconsideration and visa issuance. See how a couple is finally reunited for good on an encore episode of CITIZEN PINOY on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC. (Advertising Supplement)

THE Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor has always been a symbol of immigration and of welcoming immigrants to the U.S. The USCIS has used the Statue of Liberty as its own symbol.

Approval notices have an orange colored picture of the Statue of Liberty torch in the background, and the “help” search tool on the USCIS website is named “Emma” after poet Emma Lazarus, whose poem, “The New Colossus,” is commemorated on a bronze plaque at the base of the Statue of Liberty.

The main theme of that poem is to welcome immigrants to the U.S., offering them freedom from oppression and poverty in their home countries, and provide opportunities and a better life in America. Among those the Statue of Liberty welcomes to the U.S. are the poor, huddled masses, wretched refuse, and homeless: “Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.

Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,

Xian congratulates Kim over ‘Bawal Lumabas’ success: ‘Keep rising, keep loving’ ACTOR Xian Lim showed his support to reel-and-real-life partner Kim Chiu over the success of her “Bawal Lumabas” song, which the latter recently performed live via the Wish Bus. Chiu’s song was inspired by her “Bawal Lumabas” statement that became viral during an online protest last month in support of ABSCBN’s franchise renewal.

“Congrats @chinitaprincess [Chiu]. Bashers can dwell on their own misery and type anonymously throughout their lifetime. Naysayers will never come close to having a good heart like yours,” Lim said via Instagram Stories on Monday, June 8.

“Keep rising. Keep Loving,” the doting boyfriend added.

Chiu’s performance of her song on the Wish Bus got mixed reactions from netizens, with its YouTube video garnering over 205,000 likes and more than 565,000 dislikes since its posting on June 5. It has currently been viewed over 6.3 million times.

The live performance also earned the number one spots on YouTube’s trending list and Myx’s Pinoy Myx countdown. It also boasts a “record-breaking” one million views in seven hours, according to Wish 107.5.

Chiu’s “Bawal Lumabas”-inspired merchandise has meanwhile recently been sold out — the proceeds of which will be donated to families in need amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and for support-

ing the mass testing initiative.

“Classmates!!!!! #BawalLumabasMerch OFFICIALLY SOLD OUT this morning!!! [N]ever thought this shirt for a cause will be a success in less than [two] weeks,” Chiu said on Instagram on June 7. “[M]alaki po ang matutulong nito sa mga pamilyang bawal paring lumabas and donation for mass testing! I will keep you posted on further updates. [A]gain maraming maraming salamat,” she added.

(This will be very helpful to the families who still cannot go out and for the donation going toward the mass testing initiative! I will keep you posted on further updates.

Again, thank you very much.)

Chiu’s viral dance video to her said song has recently drawn

Kim Chiu and Xian Lim

Photo from Instagram_@xianlimm

controversy after others accused her of taking the video along EDSA. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, however, has already accepted Chiu’s explanation that it was filmed at a parking lot, not at the main thoroughfare. (Inquirer.net)

I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”

The new public charge policies of the USCIS and Embassy directly conflict with the Statue of Liberty’s welcoming message and purpose, and it would now seem hypocritical for USCIS to use the Statue of Liberty as a symbol of its functions.

Under these regulations, being poor, wretched, or homeless is a negative factor, which could result in a person’s green card being denied and/or them being prohibited from entering the U.S. We don’t want the poor and wretched anymore. They are not welcome.

The main focus of public charge is to evaluate if a person is young, able-bodied, educated, able to work, able to speak English, has a great credit score, etc. If there is reason to believe that it is more likely than not the person will not be self-sufficient, and instead depend on taxpayers for care and support, their immigrant visa or adjustment of status could be denied.

With these new public charge policies in effect, I would advise that you seek the assistance of an immigration attorney to help you navigate this new minefield, versus trying to do it on your own.

The new public charge policies and forms are lengthy and complex. As you can see, they were designed to nullify the message on the Statue of Liberty of welcoming the poor.

If your family member’s green

card is denied on public charge grounds, it could be extremely difficult to later reverse or overturn that denial. Having an attorney assist you at the outset could greatly increase your chances of success, as an attorney can help you evaluate the public charge issues, income requirements of the sponsors, and fill out the various new and lengthy forms, etc. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bars of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California.

Each case is different and results may depend on the facts of the particular case. The information and opinions contained herein (including testimonials, “Success Stories”, endorsements and re-enactments) are of a general nature, and are not intended to apply to any particular case, and do not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader.

WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw, Twitter @GurfinkelLaw and YouTube: US Immigration TV Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: 1-866-487-3465 (866) – GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES ∙ SAN FRANCISCO ∙ NEW YORK ∙ PHILIPPINES

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Reflecting on husband’s death, Pinay weather anchor Maria Quiban Whitesell releases guide to grief and healing by

celebrity world

Christina M. Oriel / AJPress

A YEAR after Maria Quiban Whitesell’s husband Sean died of glioblastoma, a friend mailed her a book containing all the email updates she sent during the 18 months he battled the aggressive form of brain cancer.

“It spurred the memory and promise that Sean and I made to each other, which was to write the story,” Quiban Whitesell told the Asian Journal. “That’s really how it began and I thought I needed to go back and write so it’s been a couple of years in the making.”

Nearly five years since her husband’s death, Quiban Whitesell, an Emmy Award-winning weather anchor and meteorologist for FOX11 in Los Angeles, released “You Can’t Do It Alone: A Widow’s Journey Through Loss, Grief and Life After” this week.

A mix of a memoir and guidebook, the latest release offers insight for families and caregivers as they care for loved ones with terminal diseases and make preparations for life after.

“I wanted to share my story and if that could help someone, then that could help heal my heart,” Quiban Whitesell said. “When I went through this in the beginning, there were very few resources. When you search brain cancer and glioblastoma, a lot of information comes up, but there weren’t any real, or as many, personal stories.”

Based on personal notes, journal entries and emails to her support system, the Filipina American news personality provides

Maria and Sean Whitesell with their son Gus

By Ferdie Villar

Heart Evangelista donates tablets to help young students

disease, the last thing you want to do is sit down and read a very long clinical book,” Quiban Whitesell said.

Quiban Whitesell begins by detailing how she met her late husband Sean — a television show writer and producer — and the family they started together with a son named Gus. After noticing behavioral changes, Sean went in for check-ups that revealed a diagnosis for glioblastoma in June 2014.

Following the news, the couple was faced with having to communicate the diagnosis and treatment plan to their friends and family, especially to their son who was 3 years old at the time. Schneider suggests avoiding euphemisms, such as lost, passed or went to sleep, and to communicate in ageappropriate language for the child to grasp. The family was upfront with telling Gus about Sean’s cancer diagnosis, while making sure to not confuse it with terminology like “sick” or “not feeling well” that could be used for less serious conditions also.

In the subsequent chapters, Quiban Whitesell writes about the resources that helped her and the family, such as finding a support group of other spouses experi-

KAPUSO network actress Heart Evangelista Escudero is one of many celebrities in the Philippines doing their own things to help the country’s needy and unfortunate.

Recently, the actress revealed on social media that she has sold one of her paintings to purchase tablets for young students who need the technology in order to gain access to online learning, according to a story on The Philippine Star.

Physical classes have been discouraged in the Philippines so that students may not be exposed to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), which has killed thousands in the Philippines and around the world.

In a Twitter post, Heart said, “My struggles in life are unknown to many but art, fashion and expressing myself have always helped me cope with my not so fairytale life.

The time, hardwork and love that I put out in this artwork was well worth it as the proceeds have allowed me to purchase 550 tablets for angels.”

Although she had announced her intention to donate tablets to needy students, the actress also apologized as she could not help every student.

“I heard having a tablet or computer is a requirement for online classes so I will do the best I can.

I’m sorry I can’t help everyone but I will try to help as much as I can,” Evangelista Escudero was quoted as saying.

The pretty actress is also back to work as she also revealed a packed working schedule that included an ad shoot, taping, recording, an interview and an FB Live session.

Kudos to Heart, for helping in her own way to assist the underprivileged in the country! *** The tributes have started pouring in for veteran actress Anita Linda, who passed away on Wednesday, June 10 at the age of 95 due to breathing difficulty.

Seasoned artists like Gina Alajar, Jake Cuenca, Alessandra de Rossi and Rosanna Roces, as well

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Maria Quiban Whitesell holds a copy of her new book, “You Can’t Do It Alone: A Widow’s Journey Through Loss, Grief, and Life After,” released on June 9 by Hachette Books.

an intimate and raw look into her family’s handling of the diagnosis and death of a loved one, while putting on a brave face to deliver weather updates to millions of views each day and creating a life with a young son afterward. At the end of each chapter, co-writer Lauren Schneider, a licensed clinical social worker, offers universal lessons on acceptance, grief and healing.

“When you are going through the kind of crisis that I went through, and for many people facing a terminal or any devastating

Front cover of “You Can’t Do It Alone”

Rev. Fr. Abraham Alonzo, Hospice Chaplain in Daly City, officiated the Holy Mass at Ferdie Villar’s recent birthday celebration. Shown in photo are the celebrant’s family and intimate friends, among them Lambert & Dorie Paniza, Rene de los Santos, Violet Orence, Anthony & Vangie Perez and family, Margie Cabrera and Roman Edie.

Ray Benitez Satorre (extreme right), president and owner of Health Professionals, Inc. in Daly City, were among the close friends of beauty impresario Ferdie Villar (seated, 2nd from left) who made it to the celebration. Others in photo are Edward and Myrna Cabrera.

San Mateo County Supervisor David Canepa (right) presented beauty impresario Ferdie Villar with a commendation recognizing the latter on his 83rd birthday celebration held last May 30 at the Villar Residence on Escanyo Drive in South San Francisco. Photos by Ray Guarin

F

(650) 689-5160 • http://www.asianjournal.com NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • June 12-18, 2020 eatures

Protect yourself from COVID-19: Celebrating Philippine Independence Day in the year of the pandemic Stop smoking and vaping now

by By

Elisa Tong, MD, MS

Associate Professor of Internal Medicine University of California, Davis DOCTORS like me and many other health professionals are working to treat sick patients for the COVID-19 virus. The best ways for you to help are to stay home, wash your hands, and not smoke or vape.

Here are three good reasons why you should stop smoking and vaping now: Smoking doubles your risk of developing respiratory infections.

In one study,1 391 healthy volunteers had 1 of 5 respiratory viruses, including a coronavirus, dropped in a liquid into their noses. The volunteers who smoked were twice as likely as those who did not smoke to develop an infection. Smoking is known to weaken the immune system and the body’s ability to fight infections.2 Smoking doubles your risk of getting sicker from COVID-19.

In a review of 5 studies published to date,3smoking is most likely associated with getting sicker with COVID-19. In the largest study of 1099 people with COVID19,4people who smoke were 2.4 times more likely to get really sick (e.g. admitted to an intensive care unit, needing mechanical ventilation, dying) compared to those who did not smoke. Smoking can cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other health problems that may contribute to serious illness.2 Stopping smoking still helps your health if you have COPD or heart disease.5 Vaping can also harm lung health.

Growing evidence suggests that the aerosol from vaping devices can harm lungs at the cellular and organ levels and worsen the body’s ability to fight respira-

tory infections.6 The recent outbreak of e-cigarette, or vapingassociated product lung injury, predominantly affecting young people, is still a major public health concern.7 You can get free help to stop smoking and vaping!

The California Smokers’ Helpline is here for you. Counselors will help you develop your own personal quit plan by phone or chat. Text and app programs are available too. It is great to work through the stress and anxiety with caring professionals during these times about how to stop.

The counselors can also talk with you about medications like nicotine patches, gums, or lozenges that are over-the-counter and help manage cravings. You may be eligible for special offers that send free nicotine patches to your home.

Keep a smoke-free home to protect others as well. Secondhand smoke worsens lung health for nonsmokers, especially children.2 If you are a nonsmoker, contact the Helpline to find out how to help someone you love quit smoking or vaping.

Being smoke and tobacco-free is as important as washing your hands and covering your cough for your health and the health of your family and our community.

References 1 [Cohen S, Tyrrell DA, Russell MA, Jarvis MJ, Smith AP. Smoking, alcohol consumption, and susceptibility to the common cold. Am J Public Health.

1993;83(9):1277-1283.

2 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Health Consequences of Smoking: 50 Years of Progress: a Report of the

Surgeon General. Atlanta, GA: US Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Office on Smoking and Health;2014.

3 Vardavas C, Nikitara K. COVID-19 and smoking: A systematic review of the evidence. Tobacco Induced Disease. 2020;18:20.

4 Guan WJ, Ni ZY, Hu Y, et al.

Clinical Characteristics of Coronavirus Disease 2019 in China. N Engl J Med. 2020.

5 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Smoking Cessation. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Office on Smoking and Health;2020.

6 Gotts JE, Jordt SE, McConnell R, Tarran R. What are the respiratory effects of e-cigarettes? BMJ. 2019;366:l5275.

7 King BA, Jones CM, Baldwin GT, Briss PA. The EVALI and Youth Vaping Epidemics - Implications for Public Health. N Engl J Med. 2020;382(8):689-691.]

(Advertising Supplement)

Asian Smokers’ Quitline (ASQ) still operates during COVID-19 outbreak Quit smoking while staying at home

FOR many of us, the coronavirus means staying at home for an extended period of time. While it may be disappointing to hear that events are being cancelled, these measures are necessary to help slow down the spread of the outbreak. At the same time, being at home gives us a chance to make some positive changes, whether it is starting an exercise routine, eating healthier, or resting more.

If you smoke or vape, one of the most important and timely changes you can make is to quit.

According to the U.S. Surgeon General’s Report, smoking weakens the immune system and makes it harder for the body to fight off disease. There are more than 7,000 chemicals in a cigarette, 70 of which can cause cancer. The smoke from a cigarette or aerosol from vaping attacks the upper respiratory system, one of the same things the coronavirus does. For someone whose respiratory system is already compromised from smoking or vaping, they may experience more serious COVID-19

symptoms should they contract the virus.

Currently, there is no guaranteed treatment or vaccine for COVID-19.

One important way to fight back is to build up the immune system by getting plenty of sleep, regularly exercising, managing stress and staying hydrated. Quitting smoking and vaping is another way to bolster the immune system. Using telephone counseling alone or in combination with FDA-approved quit aids increases the chance of quitting for good.

During these challenging times it feels like the pause bottom has been pressed. But the Asian Smoker’s Quitline (ASQ) is still up and running. We are here to support smokers and vapers, their friends and family, community partners, and healthcare professionals.

Please give us a call at 1-800-8388917 or go to our website www. asq-chinese.org to register.

Quitting smoking and vaping is hard. But the key is to never ever give up. ASQ provides a free twoweek supply of nicotine patches

Multi-awarded actress Maricel Soriano is showing her acting ability as one of the leading ladies in the re-airing of the 2014 GMA teleserye “Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real” which features Primetime King Dingdong Dantes as lead actor.

a different outcome. The region including the Philippines might have been, to this day, a territory of Japan. We would not be where we are today, enjoying the blessings of this great country. Thanks to the Philippines’ noble heroes who vowed that “never shall invaders trample thy sacred shores,” the cause of freedom in the Philippines ultimately prevailed.

Remember Bataan. Just as Texas leader Sam Houston used the Fall of the Alamo battle cry “Remember the Alamo” to recapture Texas from the hands of the occupying Mexican army, General Douglas MacArthur used “Remember Bataan” as the battle cry in the successful campaign to defeat the Japanese forces and recapture the Philippines.

And it was this unusual gallantry of Filipino soldiers that inspired General Douglas MacArthur to say his immortal words: “I shall return!” And return he did, liberating the Philippines from enemy hands. And in great recognition of the Filipinos’ fighting spirit, the famous general later said: “Give me 10,000 brave Filipino soldiers and I will conquer the world!”

The hard-fought Philippine Independence and what it stood for,

both in the Philippine revolution against Spain and in the bloody aftermath of WWII, should remain ingrained in our consciousness and in our hearts. It is a noble legacy of love, valor and patriotism that we should pass on to future generations of Filipinos wherever they may be. May the spirit of our heroes dwell within us, now and forever more. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas. Mabuhay tayong lahat! *** Reactions to this article may be sent to gusmercadotx@gmail. com.

[Virtual celebration of Philippine Independence on June 12, 2020.

The Filipino Leaders Coalition of North Texas (FILCON) is proudly presenting a virtual celebration of Philippine Independence on June 12, 2020 at 11:30a.m. Central Time, 9:30a.m. Pacific Time.

This special celebration is dedicated to the Filipino front-liners, in partnership with ABS-CBN who will be live streaming the program and will deploy live celebrity performances from the Philippines.

To attend and view the virtual celebration in real time, go to the ABS-CBN or FILCON Facebook page and link to the North Texas Kalayaan 2020 event.]

to eligible smokers along with the encouragement and strategies to support quit attempts. We also provide help to tobacco users who have quit but are struggling to stay quit.

Asian Smokers’ Quit line (ASQ) PAGE 8 is funded by the Centers for Dis- encing the same disease (called ease Control and Prevention (CDC). the “Seven Samurai”), as well as ASQ provides FREE evidence- what she wished she knew about based stop smoking services in balancing work, caregiving and Cantonese, Mandarin, Korean and parenting. In the 18 months, the Vietnamese to Asian communities Whitesell family got to a point throughout the U.S. Eligible smok- where they “chose joy” and built ers can receive a free two-week memories in the remaining time supply of nicotine patches. Stud- together. ies have shown that smokers who “I decided to take six weeks enroll in ASQ services double their off and we were going to create chances of quitting successfully. new memories for us and try to ASQ operates Monday through prioritize that time with our son,” Friday, 7am to 9pm Pacific Time she said. “We went on a couple (10am – Midnight Eastern Time). of vacations, experienced DisneyTo enroll, call or register online land, and concerts. We did a lot of Amid Sean’s diagnosis, the couple prioritized “choosing joy” and spending time as much time Photos courtesy of Maria Quiban Whitesell today: Mandarin & Cantonese – 1- things and found as much joy as together as a family.

800-838-8917, www.asq-chinese. we could have each day. It wasn’t updates every month, sometimes ing through. He just gave me so org; Korean – 1-800-556-5564, always positive all the time. It was twice a month, to keep everyone much comfort by telling me that www.asq-korean.org; Vietnamese hard to get to that point but it was in the loop. They wanted to know things were going to be okay and – 1-800-778-8440, www.asq-viet. a choice we both made together. what’s going on.” eventually, better for us.” org.

We were going to choose to be On dealing with the diagnoOn faith and spirituality: “One (Advertising Supplement) happy and live for the moment.” sis as a public figure: “That was of the reasons why I fell in love The book ends with Quiban a challenge having to put on a with Sean was that he had a very Whitesell talking about life moving smile every day because part of strong faith. He was a better Cathon as a widow — from the condo- my job is to bring you the good olic than me, that’s for sure. He lences to questions about dating news. On days, where I didn’t feel brought me back to the church in and the possibility of remarriage like smiling, it was a bigger chal- a way and we still have a very spe— and how she’s honoring her late lenge but inevitably, I was able to cial relationship with our church. husband by using her platform to do it through compartmentalizing We’re still talking to priests who bring awareness to the form brain what’s in front of me. I was able to have brought us comfort even if cancer and the lack of a cure. leave caregiver Maria at the door. they don’t have all the answers.

“But perhaps the fact that I am The real smiles came through There are many occasions where still here — ready for whatever because I have a job that I love I can tell you that Sean is still here the future holds, reaching out for and enjoy and I have people that with us.” help when I need it, and finding I work with who are funny and are On keeping memories alive: strength in the memories of love incredibly loving and supportive.” “We were fortunate that Sean was that make me who I am — gives On self-care: “Our family thera- able to write some stories for Gus you a ray of light on your journey. pist always tries to remind me that he can look back on when he’s I hope you know that you too, will about that. She’ll ask, ‘What did older. They’re little nuggets of adnever be alone,” she writes. you do for yourself today? So I will vice from his dad, which I hope he Here are excerpts from try to schedule playdates, as I like will find value in a little bit later.

Quiban Whitesell’s interview to call them with Gus, with some Gus is amazingly funny and curiwith the Asian Journal, edited for of my friends and try to get my ous and even though he probably Heart Evangelista poses with one of her paintings. She recently sold a painting, the proceeds nails done. That’s sort of an inex- looks more like me, he acts a lot of which she used to buy 550 tablets for needy students in the Philippines so they can have length and clarity.

On Filipino culture: “I am so pensive but satisfying way to get like his father. We talk to daddy all access to online learning.

Instagram Photo (@iamhearte) thankful for the love and care away for a couple of hours and try the time. Sean is always with us. as a “classmate,” but she said she my eternal sunshine and pride. the nurses, who were all Filipino, to take some care of myself that We continue to live our lives the will eventually gain strength via Tinayo mo ako today. Hindi ko pa gave Sean and our whole family. It way. Luckily, I have friends and way Sean would have wanted us their good memories together. kaya magjoke ha?,” she said. really makes me tear up because family who will drag me out of the to and so we always honor and re“Anita, ang hirap maging ma“Mahal na mahal kita. Hahanap it speaks to our culture. Without house and get me to have fun.” member him, but we also live for saya ngayon sa mga panahon na ako ng lipstick na pulang-pula. Try them, I don’t even think Sean On meeting former Vice Presi- ourselves and finding our future ito. Madilim. But your laughter ko. (crying emojis) (heart emojis). would have lived as long as he did dent Joe Biden: “I remember that and happiness.” and your beautiful words will be Rest now. Mabuhay ka, Anita!” because they really cared for him Sunday vividly in February 2016.

On grieving during a pandemshe further said at the end of her and for all of us and would even It was a particularly difficult morn- ic: “I really feel for those families Instagram post. bring us Filipino food. Sean and I ing and I was praying and asking who are unable to be with their Rosanna Roces, meanwhile, had talked about going to the Phil- God to help heal my heart. I just loved ones. Some of the things shared a collage of the many proj- ippines to show him where I was kept repeating Sean’s name in that I think will resonate with them ects she did with Anita on Face- born and where my family was my head and asking him for a is this powerlessness that we had book, which was preceded by a from. I was remiss to show him sign. There was a commotion at through our whole process. Many photo with the veteran actress in that part of my life and history.” the back of the church and the people now who are suffering her Instagram account.

On communication: “It was priest announced that we had a through the pandemic have this “Tita lalong Pinalungkot ng important to set the tone for ev- very special visitor that day and feeling of this lack of control or Pagpanaw mo ang araw na ito. Ma eryone. I always deferred to Sean there was our Vice President Joe just helplessness. What I say to miss ka namin nila direk Adolfo on how he felt about the decisions Biden. I knew that his son had just [them] is, ‘You are stronger than Borinaga Alix Jr…naming lahat. that we were facing and together passed away a few months before you think you are. I can tell you Grabe. Dami natin pinagsamahan as a couple and as a family, we from the same disease that Sean that when faced with the most (crying emojis),” Roces said in her decided what we needed to do did. I needed to go and say hello challenging crises in your life, just post and everyone else supported us to him. I started crying and told know that you can get through it Anita Linda, who is Alice Buena- around that. Communication and him we had something in com- too…You have a village there for flor Lake in real life, is survived by honesty are key. We were very mon. He changed his demeanor you so seek out and find them.’

Veteran actress Anita Linda passed away children Francesca Legaspi and careful to be very sensitive to one right away. He was so connected Even through this time when we on June 10. Many celebrities have posted Fred Osburn, among other family another and our needs and de- and present and wanted to make are physically apart, technology tributes, messages of condolence and members. Condolences to Anita’s sires. I think that was one of the sure he told Gus and myself that can help us find a support systhrowback photos with the legendary actress family on her passing! reasons why I wrote those email he understood what we were go- tem.” on social media.

Philstar.com File Photo

Heart Evangelista donates tablets to help...

PAGE 8 as director Adolfo Alix, posted throwback photos and messages of condolences or fond memories with the multi-awarded actress who worked on many projects in Philippine cinema and television for around seven decades, according to PEP.ph.

It was director Alix who confirmed the news as he posted a photo with Anita, with the caption, “This is a sad day for me. I am trembling as I am gathering my thoughts… The great Anita Linda has passed away this morning at 6:15AM. Prayers for her soul.”

Alajar, a director and award-winning actress, posted a photo with Anita, with the caption, “Rest in peace, Mommy Alice… the industry lost another great actress…”

De Rossi, who worked with Anita in the 2012 indie film “Sta. Niño,” said that it was hard to tell jokes lately with the actress’ passing, whom she fondly referred to

IT is 2020, the year the earth stood still while a deadly pandemic wreaked havoc on the world’s population. Millions were infected, many thousands have died, economies came crashing down, millions lost their jobs, and there is no end in sight. It is a year that all of us would rather soon forget, delete, reset, and start all over again.

While still living in the COVID-19 nightmare, we are hardpressed to find anything to celebrate. But Filipinos, wherever they are and whatever their situation, do not forget to celebrate Philippine Independence on June 12 to honor the bravery and sacrifices of our heroes who fought for our independence against foreign invaders and paid the ultimate sacrifice so we may have the blessings of freedom and democracy that we now enjoy.

Among many chapters of Philippine history that were written in blood, two special chapters stand out in reminding all of us of the countless Filipino lives lost in their fight for freedom. The first is the Philippine Revolution against centuries of Spanish colonial rule which culminated in the declaration of Philippine Independence in Kawit, Cavite on June 12, 1898 on the altar of brave men and women who lost their lives in the conflict.

The other indelible chapter in our history that memorialized the bravery of the Filipino people is World War II where the Philippine nation lost a million lives including civilians and more than 200,000 Filipino and American soldiers fought side by side against foreign invaders and gave their full measure of devotion to keep freedom alive. Unbeknownst to the younger generations, it was the heroism and sacrifices of these heroes that gave us free passage as immigrants into this country.

When General Douglas MacArthur ordered the combined American and Filipino forces to stand strong and defend the Philippines at all costs, that’s exactly what they did. According to military historians, if the defenders of Bataan and Corregidor had not kept the enemies at bay for many long and brutal days in spite of lack of supplies, food and ammunition, while the Allied Forces were regrouping in Australia, the war might have had

Reflecting on husband’s death, Pinay weather...

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Features

June 12-18, 2020 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

Jo Koy to film movie with Steven Spielberg

By Ritchel

Mendiola AJPress

FILIPINO-AMERICAN standup comedian Jo Koy is set to work on a movie with the revered filmmaker Steven Spielberg.

“I signed a deal with Steven Spielberg’s company. [He] watched my last special ‘Comin’ In Hot’ and then he gave me a deal for a movie, so get ready for that. We’re writing the script now,” the comedian said in a Zoom interview with The Manila Times Entertainment and other members of the Philippine press on Tuesday, June 9.

Spielberg’s production company, Amblin Partners, will team up with Dan Lin’s Rideback to produce the movie which will be based on Jo Koy’s real life experiences.

“Steven’s 100 percent on board. We just signed the deal maybe a couple of months ago.

So yeah, be on the lookout. I’m doing a movie called ‘Easter Sunday’ which is an idea I pitched and it’s going to showcase more Filipino actors and more Filipino stories, and we’re going to get this in as many movie theaters as we can,” Jo Koy added.

He also expressed his excitement with having Spielberg and Lin on board with the movie.

“These two powerhouses are going to back this for us. I’m very proud to put it out there,” Jo Koy said.

The comedian is also doing a collaboration with clothing brand

Real Estate Knowledge Martin Santiago, Broker-Associate

Fil-Am comedian Jo Koy

Illest, which is set to be released on the same day as his Netflix comedy special.

“Jo Koy: In His Elements” will be available on the streaming platform on June 12.

According to Jo Koy, the special will show how beautiful the Philippines is, and how beautiful the people are.

“Everything about this spe-

Photo from Instagram_@jokoy

cial is Filipino, the cameraman, the people in the audience, the people that own the venue,” he said.

Jo Koy, whose birth name is Joseph Glenn Hubert, first took the stage in Las Vegas in 1989 and has been working as a standup comedian ever since.

His two previous Netflix specials are “Comin’ in Hot” and “Live from Seattle.”

WHILE most Americans agree with the protesters’ cause, some detractors worry about the cities with the largest marches, where people are gathering in the thousands in the middle of the COVID19 pandemic. Those arguments aren’t always made in good faith, but the concerns have some validity. How big is the risk that the protests could set off a new wave of infections across the country?

How will the stock market react?

Will it plunge again? Will the government issue billions of dollars again?

We should be worried. We see people who are not maintaining social distancing; there’s the potential for those people to spread the virus. But by the same token, I think we’re currently facing two public health crises. The first is COVID. And the second is racism and police violence that we’ve been facing for centuries. As tens of thousands of Americans have taken to the streets in recent days, transmission of the coronavirus is still rampant across the U.S. Anyone joining the protests should be aware that there is a risk.

But that isn’t an argument for people to stay home. As many scientists and doctors have agreed – and as the protesters themselves have argued – police brutality against the black community is its own urgent health crisis.

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

COVID-19 spike from the protests and your investments And it’s not lost on the protesters that the same community already so devastated by the pandemic is now most likely to suffer from the virus’ spread at the protests.

Those demonstrators have chosen to take on the risks from the coronavirus pandemic because they have decided that the public health risks from police brutality are more urgent and immediate.

Densely packed crowds – this is the main reason to worry. It’s kind of a setup for viral transmission. People trumps everything, every other environmental factor.

So, it doesn’t matter if it’s hot, it doesn’t matter if it’s sunny, with UV lights. As long as there are enough people, the virus is happy because it’s trying to jump from somebody’s nose or mouth into somebody else’s nose or mouth.

The danger varies by location, though. In a place such as Los Angeles, where COVID-19 cases are still quite high, having large gatherings are more likely to spread the virus than in a place like Portland, Oregon. Shouting, chanting, and singing: Any time a person projects their voice – to shout the names of those killed by police, for example – the particles that could carry the virus travel farther. As a result, some health experts recommend people use megaphones to magnify their voices and rely more heavily on signs to spread their message.

The mass demonstrations nationwide could impact public

health as the country continues to grapple with both the coronavirus pandemic and tough economic conditions. While protesters have good reason to take to the streets, their congregation in close spaces could lead to another spike in COVID-19 infections, leading to another reason for employers to delay calling employees back into the office.

In California, cases jumped 11% in days, from 98,980 reported on June 3 to 110,583 cases on June 7, according to the health department’s data. If this number will continue to rise, some investors might sell their stocks as a second wave of COVID-19 quarantine is looming. If we will be in quarantine again, the market will destabilize, and this will have a ripple effect on the real estate market which was holding up for the past three months.

At the end of the day, we all want to live a normal live without COVID-19. We should all do our share in beating the virus. *** Martin Santiago is a broker associate at Compass Burlingame, a full-service residential brokerage firm. He is also a licensed mortgage loan originator & an International Associate at the American Institute of Architects. The information presented in this article is for general information only and is not, nor intended to be a formal legal advice nor the formation of a broker-client relationship. Call or email Martin at (415)850-7704; teammsquare@gmail.com; www. teammsquare.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

Forbes features Hyun Bin’s endorsement of Pinoy brand THE latest campaign of Smart Communications Inc. featuring South Korean superstar Hyun Bin landed on the international edition of Forbes magazine online.

According to Forbes.com, “Hyun Bin has been popular in the Philippines since 2005, when a local TV network aired a Tagalog-dubbed version of the romantic comedy My Lovely Sam Soon.”

His appeal in the country, as stated by Forbes, is often referred to as the “Hyun Bin Phenomenon.” The actor’s popularity shot to even greater heights after the release of “Crash Landing On You.” This led Smart Communications to recruit Hyun Bin for an ad campaign shot in Seoul, South Korea in the middle of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis.

In the ad, Hyun Bin can be seen driving a sports car and zooming through the city streets, “alluding to the blazing speeds by which Filipinos can enjoy their daily dose of entertainment via Smart.”

Jane Jimenez Basas, Senior Vice President and ‘Crash Landing on You’ star Hyun Bin Photo courtesy of Smart Communications Head of Consumer Wireless Business at Smart,

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said: “The ‘Hyun Bin Phenomenon’ is pretty much due to digital technology. Filipinos have developed the craze because they are able to stream Hyun Bin’s k-dramas and films, read the buzz online, share their excitement with their friends and get to interact with their favorite k-stars online.”

The article added that Hyun Bin was pleased that Smart offered him a way to connect with his Filipino fans, who he thinks are “the warmest fans in the world.”

Forbes is a global media company, which focuses on business, technology, investing, leadership and lifestyle. It is known the world over for its annual list of billionaires across the world.

This is the first time for Smart Communications to be featured on Forbes through PublicityAsia, the agency tapped by the Manny Pangilinan-led company to handle international media relations for the ad campaign.

PublicityAsia was previously the agency of Penshoppe, and is known for their work in foreign celebrity acquisition and high-profile commercial campaigns. (Philstar.com)

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