Weekend Balita (Los Angeles edition) December 5, 2020

LOS ANGELES / ORANGE COUNTY

US commits P875-M to support Manila’s HIV AIDS programs PAGE 18

VOL. XXIX NO. 49

December 5-11, 2020

TOP STORIES

Global News Zarate rejects Roque’s call to renounce armed struggle 8  Hontiveros seeks DBP documents on SEA Games venue loan 8  Baguio City suspends night market operation over crowd control lapses 8  Church backs Simbang Gabi, novena Masses in gyms, other venues 8  ‘Red-tagging’ amid budget season meant to secure funds for campaign vs. supposed insurgents — Lagman 9  Face-to-face classes will be approved on case-to-case basis — Galvez 9  President Duterte welcomes seven new ambassadors 10  PRRD to call for global solidarity vs. COVID-19 at UN special session 10 

THE LEADING SOURCE OF NEWS AND INFORMATION FOR FELLOW FILIPINO-AMERICANS

PROTESTS ERUPT OVER NEW RESTO RESTRICTIONS IN La COUNTY City of LA to provide 4,000 local food-service workers with a one-time $800 stipend.

Sections BUSINESS. PH ‘trying hard’ to get COVID-19 vaccine from ‘friends’ as rich nations snap up supply — official 13  ENTERTAINMENT. Anne Curtis wows with fit figure just months after giving birth 14  HEALTH & FAMILY. DOST: VCO diminished COVID-19 symptoms of suspect, probable cases in study 18  TRAVEL. Boom in nature-based tourism seen under new normal 16 

PRRD OKs emergency use authorization for Covid-19 drugs, vaccines MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for drugs and vaccines against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

Duterte signed Executive Order (EO) No. 121 on December 1, granting authority to the director general of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to issue a EUA for Covid-19 drugs and vaccines subject to several conditions.

“Outside clinical trials and except in cases where a Compassionate Special Permit is issued, no unregistered Covid-19 drug and vaccine may be manufactured, sold, imported, exported, distributed or transferred without an EAU,” the EO reads.

A EUA on a Covid-19 drug or vaccine may be issued based on the totality of evidence available, including data from adequate and well-known controlled trials, it is reasonable to believe that the drug or vaccine may be effective to prevent, diagnose, or treat Covid-19.

It may also be issued if the known and potential benefits of the drug or vaccine when used to diagnose, prevent, or treat Covid-19 PRRD

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File photo of an “ihaw-ihaw” moment in front of a Filipino restaurant in the Historic Filipinotown in the downtown Los Angeles. Photo by ABNER GALINO

Pinoys and Black are most vulnerable to Valley Fever SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) today announced 9,004 reported new cases of Valley fever in California in 2019, the highest number since the state started tracking cases i n 19 95 .

W h i l e Valley fever reasons (Coccidioidomycosis) for this record level are not clear, the above average level of rainfall during the 2018-2019 winter might have contributed.

PINOYS

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By ABNER GALINO

AS the Los Angeles County’s new safer-at-home order took effect last Monday (November 30) due to the rapid climb of coronavirus cases, the Beverly Hills City Council opposed the new restrictions through a unanimously approved resolution on Tuesday while hundreds of people protested in Long Beach on Wednesday, demanding for the continuation of dine-in ser vice on restaurants.

The new L.A. County order has prohibited nonessential activities between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. every day through December 21.

Protesters complained that stricter limitations would not only mean loses for the business owners but as well as for the workers who would have to be laid off again.

The critics also pointed out that the latest closures and restrictions come just as many restaurants have spent money in remodeling their outdoor areas to comply with the health guidelines on stopping the spread of coronavirus.

On Tuesday (December 1), the Beverly Hills City Council passed a resolution that calls for L.A. Board of Supervisors to repeal its newest restrictions on restaurants. The City PROTESTS

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Sinas: Evidence vs. Amanda Echanis not planted, says she is part of underground movement MANILA (Mabuhay) — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Debold Sinas on Thursday said the high-powered firearms allegedly seized from Amanda Lacaba Echanis during her arrest were not planted. "'Yung mga sinabi pong planted ay hindi po totoo 'yun... paano ka mag-plant ng mga baril na 'to, mga bago, mga high caliber... mahirap po mag-plant noon, bahay niya 'yun eh," Sinas said.

Sinas insisted that Echanis as well as her husband are part of the underground movement.

"Hindi po totoong wala 'yan sa underground. Ang asawa niya ay lider po ng armado, sa NPA sa Cagayan Valley... Kaya nga may mga armas 'yan eh. 'Yung asawa niya nasa underground," Sinas said.

Echanis, daughter of slain Anakpawis chairman Randall "Ka Randy" Echanis, was arrested in Barangay Carupian in Baggao, Cagayan following the implementation of a search warrant issued by Judge Sheila Gacutan-Labuguen SINAS:

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AMANDA Echanis, daughter of recently-killed activist Randall Echanis, was arrested on December 2 for alleged illegal possession of firearms and explosives. She took her baby with her to the detention facility in Camp Adduro, Tuguegarao.

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ABNER GALINO, Fil-Am News Editor

Fil-Am

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Free internet to homeless; foster youth and children with disabilities

M

ayor Eric Garcetti today announced the creation of the Angeleno Connectivity Trust (ACT), an initiative to help deliver internet access to vulnerable young people — including students experiencing homelessness, those in foster care, and youth with disabilities.

Working with T-Mobile’s Project 10Million, the Mayor’s Fund for Los Angeles, and several community-based organizations, ACT will offer 100 GB of free internet connectivity to students who need it the most. The agreement would provide that level of connectivity to 18,000 students for five years, renewable on an annual basis.

“The COVID-19 crisis has created extraordinary challenges for our most vulnerable young people,” said Mayor Garcetti. “ACT will help ensure connectivity for students who face some of the highest hurdles, by deploying a community-led response to help close the digital divide for students too often shut out of quick or easy internet access.”

“T-Mobile’s Project 10Million is all about helping students AND educators, and we are proud to support Mayor Garcetti as he works to provide the tools and resources kids need to keep up with their connected peers,” said Mike Katz, executive vice president of T-Mobile for Business.

“Especially in today’s remote COVID-19 learning environment, students without reliable internet face a total disconnection from their virtual classroom. Connectivity opens doors to opportunity and a brighter future, and we at T-Mobile believe every single child is deserving of that access.”

ACT builds upon the work of Mayor Garcetti’s Telecommunications and Digital Equity Forum, a regular convening of City agencies and private sector telecommunications actors that focuses on ways to improve internet access equitably across the City.

The initiative will identify students in need through partnerships with the

City’s YouthSource and FamilySource Centers, the Los Angeles Unified School District (L AUSD), L . A .

Public Librar y, and local organizations including Brotherhood Crusade, School on Wheels, North Valley Caring Services, and the Coalition for Responsible Community Development.

This effort comes after the Mayor’s recent announcement of a separate program to provide free internet to L.A. residents living in public housing developments.

"The pandemic has exacerbated the inequities that some students face, and connectivity and accessibility affected our students — unhoused students — tremendously,” said Charles Evans, Executive Director of School on Wheels.

“Our students went too long without the basics: no computer, no wifi, no home, and very little hope. So we are fully committed, moving forward, to lessening the digital and connectivity divide that our students face and providing them with as many resources as possible to keep up with their studies."

To find more information about ACT, families and students can visit LAMayor.org/Connectivity or call 311.

Angelenos can also visit the Get Connected Los Angeles site at GetConnectedLosAngeles.LACity.org — a partnership with the Mayor’s Office, California Emerging Technologies Fund, Everyone On, Human-IT, and the City’s Information Technology Agency — to learn about free and low-cost options for Angelenos to get internet access and devices.

Mayor Garcetti is leading Los An-

geles through the pandemic with a focus on ensuring equity and access to resources for all Angelenos — offering free COVID-19 testing citywide, delivering tenant protections and rental relief funds, and providing cash assistance to some of the city’s hardest-hit households.

PINOYS... fROm PagE 1 Consistent with previous years, the highest incidence of Valley fever in 2019 was reported in counties in the Central Valley and Central Coast regions of California, including Kern, Kings, San Luis Obispo, Fresno, Tulare, Madera, and Monterey counties.

"With the continued increase in Valley fever cases, people living and working in the Central Valley and Central Coast regions of California should take steps to avoid breathing in dusty air outside," said Dr. Erica Pan, CDPH Acting State Public Health Officer.

“Although the symptoms of Valley fever can be similar to those of COVID-19, it’s important that individuals with lingering cough and fatigue also talk to a healthcare provider about Valley fever, especially if they have been outdoors in dusty air. People who work primarily outdoors such as construction workers and others that dig or disturb soil should especially learn more about the prevention of Valley fever.”

Valley fever, also known as coccidioidomycosis, or “cocci”, is caused by breathing in the spores of a fungus that grows in the soil and dirt in some areas of California.

The fungal spores, which are too small to see, can be present in dust that gets into the air when it is windy or when soil is disturbed, such as digging during construction.

This fungus usually infects the lungs and can cause respiratory symptoms including cough, fever, chest pain, and tiredness.

In most people, the infection will go away on its own, but anyone who has these symptoms for more than a week should ask their healthcare provider if their symptoms could be Valley fever.

While anyone can get Valley fever, those most at-risk for severe disease include people who are Black or Filipino, adults 60 years or older, pregnant women, and people with diabetes or conditions that weaken the immune system.

In severe disease, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, and in these serious cases, prolonged antifungal medicine is required.

A person can reduce their risk of Valley fever by taking steps to avoid breathing in dust in areas where Valley fever is common: When it is windy outside and the air is dusty, stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed.

While driving, keep car windows closed and use recirculating air conditioning, if available.

If individuals must be outdoors in dusty areas, they should consider wearing a properly fitted N95 mask.

To raise statewide awareness of Valley fever among the general public and healthcare providers, CDPH posts data monthly, issues periodic updates, and provides educational materials on the CDPH website.

During 2019-2020, CDPH implemented a multimedia Valley fever awareness campaign to reach more people and providers, including people living in areas with moderate to high rates of Valley fever and those at risk for severe disease.

Lessons learned from this awareness campaign will be used in CDPH’s continued efforts to address Valley fever in California.

For more information on Valley fever, please visit CDPH’s “Could Be Valley Fever” webpages.

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L.A. County targets rising hate crimes

By MARK HEDIN Ethnic Media Services

L

os Angeles city and county officials, educators, health care providers and community-based organizations are teaming up to provide resources against hate crimes, a problem worsened by the stresses of the COVID-19 pandemic.

To highlight this effort, a group of city and county officials and private sector executives announced the first “United Against Hate Week” on Monday, Nov. 30.

The campaign comes less than a year after the county introduced the nation’s first hate-crime hotline, 211. In its first six months of operation, 13% of the calls to 211 were COVID-related.

“Hate is on the rise nationally, not just in our region,” said Robin Toma, director of the county Comm ission on Human Relations.

An FBI report released in mid-Novem-

ber found that 2019 had the most hate crimes recorded in more than 10 years, and the most hate-motivated killings since the 1990s.

“This has been a tough year in many ways,” Toma said.

“We know that this is a time of anxiety and fear that can lead to scapegoating and stereotyping.”

But at the same time, he said, people are standing up for each other and their communities. The campaign is looking forward to bringing together millions of people in that effort.

Debra Duardo, superintendent of the county’s Office of Education which oversees 80 school districts, emphasized students “knowing that they’re welcomed, loved and included. Making sure that bullying is never ignored, always addressed and never tolerated.

“The earlier we start, the better,” she said. That means that education should be inclusive of a multicultural

LA County to launch program to help restaurants get $30K assistance

I

n an effort to assist restaurants affected by the COVID-19 restrictions, Los Angeles County will launch the Keep LA County Dining Grant Program on Thursday (December 3).

The Keep LA County Dining Grant will provide $30,000 to use as working capital for employee payroll expenses, capital to continue operations, payment of outstanding business expenses, and adaptive business practices needed to remain open. Preference will be given to restaurants that provided outdoor dining as of November 24, 2020.

The Program, approved by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on November 24, 2020, and operated by the Los Angeles County Development Authority, will be available to small businesses located in the County of Los Angeles, not including the Cities of Los Angeles and Pasadena, that can demonstrate that their business was impacted by COVID-19 through a hardship due to closure and a reduction in revenue.

Businesses that have already received assistance from other Los Angeles County Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act programs are not eligible for this Program.

“Earlier this year, restaurants made incredible sacrifices to align with public safety protocols in order to open for in person dining and help pay their bills,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.

“These restaurants, the vast majority of which employ fewer than 25 people, truly represent the small business community that drives the County’s economic engine. The recent health officer orders to close in person dining was a devastating blow and as a result, the Board identified the need to immediately deploy grant funding to support these impacted small businesses.”

“Restaurants are integral to the economic, social, and cultural fabric of our County,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Chair Pro Tem Hilda L. Solis.

“They contribute to the historical identity of our communities and are also responsible for employing a workforce that is dependent on jobs with low barriers to entry for their livelihood. I am keenly aware that many are not in agreement with the recent temporary suspension of outdoor dining, but it is necessary to protect our collective well-being. Nonetheless, it is critical that we continue to assist this sector by providing funding to impacted restaurants so that we can help keep them afloat while we weather this pandemic together. Together is the only way that we can beat this virus, not alone and not divided.”

“This pandemic and the recent closure of outdoor dining has been devastating to our restaurants and restaurant workers,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn.

“These grants are meant to help as many restaurants as possible make ends meet and make it through this crisis. We know it won’t be enough.

We need another federal stimulus package to get a lifeline to all of our businesses and workers that are struggling.”

The application period will begin Thursday, December 3, 2020, at 12:00 a.m., and be available through Sunday, December 6, 2020, at 11:59 p.m., or until 2,500 applications are received, whichever comes first.

For additional program information, please visit keeplacountydining. lacda.org or call (626) 943-3833. Questions regarding the grant program can be sent to keeplacountydining@lacda.org.

All media may contact Elisa Vasquez, LACDA Public Information Officer, at (626) 586-1762.

community in its subject matter, such as ethnic studies, in a faculty that reflects the community, in empowering our children to love themselves and their culture, to know their culture and to teach empathy and relationship building, sometimes beginning as early as preschool, she said.

It’s not only the right thing to do, said Maria Salinas of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Comm e r c e , i t ’s

good business to help ensure “a safe, inclusive and respectful workplace.

“This is our future workforce. The most important infrastructure that business has is people,” she said.

“It’s something we are going to have to deal with for a long time,” cautioned Capri Maddox, the first director of Los Angeles’ new (city) Department of Civil and Human Rights The LGBTQ and Asian American Pacific Islander communities as particular targets, she said, but cited also, as recently as the Saturday after the Nov.

3 election when Joe Biden was declared president-elect, having to respond to hateful imagery painted at the large African American church of which she herself is a member.

John Baackes, CEO of LA. Care, which has 2.3 million members in the county, cited the toll that the stresses of hate and intolerance add to people’s burdens and also called for increased emphasis on menta l health care.

Toma emphasized that the 211 line is not just for reporting incidents, but also a guaranteed portal for getting help.

“Anyone who calls 211 will get an offer of assistance,” he said. A lthough “we know that many more acts occur than are reported,” he said, the 211 line is “not just reporting.”

Although many calls do result in police interventions, there are also dozens of community organizations that provide assistance.

The line is open 24 hours every day and speakers of any language can use it.

The United Against Hate Week program, endorsed so far by 25 cities, features workshops, screenings, concerts and art installations up and down the state.

A list is available at https://unitedagainsthateweek.org/find-events.

The campaign’s website, LAvsHate.org, offers an array of downloadable graphics, some tailored to specific communities, available for sharing.

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BIDEN-HARRIS transition team nominates highly respected and competent economic public servants to assist in rebuilding economy

I

Janet Yellen

Neera Tanden

n a recent letter sent to us, President elect Joe Biden writes:" this year not only saw smaller gatherings around the Thanksgiving table, but also a lot more uncertainty for American families. The COVID - 19 pandemic has not only caused a public health crisis, but an economic crisis too.

That is why, both Vice - President elect Kamala Harrris and I, your President - elect, will take this economic crisis head on. and deliver immediate relief to the American people.. Therefore, I am proud to present to all of you, our nominations for the economic leadership team, who will help build our economy back better than ever.

JANET YELLEN, as Secretary of the Treasury

Janet is one of America's leading economists.

She served as the 15th Chair of the Federal Reserve, the first woman to lead America's central banking system. And now, if confirmed, she will break another glass ceiling , as the first woman to serve as Secretary of the Treasury, in its 231 years of existence, and the very first person to ever serve as Treasury Secretary, Chair of the Federal Reserve, and Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers. I am proud to have her trail-blazing leadership at the helm of my economic team.

NEERA TANDEN, as Director of Office of Management and Budget

Neera is battle-tested and ready to get the job done, as our next Director of Office Management and Budget. She has been at the forefront in creating policies designed to support America's working

Wally Adeyemo

Cecilia Rouse

families. She'll fight for your family as if it were her own, because her experience as a child relying on food stamps and section 8 housing, instilled in her a belief that our economy must serve the dignity and humanity of all people .If confirmed, she'll be the first woman of color and the first South Asian American to lead the OMB, and I am excited to watch her make history.

WALLY ADEYEMO, as Deputy Secretary of the Treasury

During the Obama - Biden administration, Wally was front and center at the economic decision making table. .Among a broad range of posts, he served as President Obama's international economic adviser, and now currently serves as the president of the Obama Foundation. If confirmed, he would be the first African American Deputy Secretary of the Treasury. There is no one better equipped for this post to help lead America out of the current economic crisis and I am proud to have Wally on the team.

CECILIA ROUSE, as Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers

If confirmed to this post, Cecilia Rouse will become the first African American and just the fourth woman to lead the Council of Economic Advisers.

She served on this council during the Obama Biden administration and the National Economic Council during the Clinton administration. Cecilia is now the Dean of the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs, and I know that she is an accomplished leader, who has the experience to

Jared Bernstein

Heather Boushey

get things done and deliver real results.

JARED BERNSTEIN, as Member of the Council of Economic Advisers

Jared is one of our most trusted economic advisors, having served as my Chief Economist in the Obama - Biden administration. His previous work as Executive Director of the Obama - Biden White House Task Force on the Middle Class, at the Economic Policy Institute, the Clinton administration and as a social worker, make him uniquely equipped to lead on economic policies that expand opportunities for working Americans.

HEATHER BOUSHEY, as Member of the Council of Economic Advisers

I've known Heather for a long time. and I know she'll make a terrific addition to the CEA. She is a leading voice on matters of economic policy and and now serves as the President & CEO of the Washington Center for Equitable Growth. Heather has years of experience at think tanks and on Capitol Hill and is an expert on the impact of structural inequities on economic growth. I am proud to have her on board.

These highly qualified nominees, if confirmed will work tirelessly to ensure that Americans enjoy a fair return for their work and an equal chance to get ahead and that our businesses can thrive and outcompete the rest of the world.

I believe in this team. and I know that together, there's nothing we cannot do as Americans if we put our minds to it. Thank you for listening."

PROTESTS... from Page 1 Council said local businesses have already suffered enough economic challenges since the pandemic began.

There was a lack of scientific evidence to support the ban, according to the resolution.

The unanimously approved resolution called on the LA County supervisors not to unilaterally implement a public health order but instead based it on data that identify a particular industry, sector or area.

In the same resolution, the city staff was asked to research the idea of forming a Beverly Hills public health department which would allow the city to set its own health rules and policies.

The City of Long Beach, which has its own health department, a new order has also banned outdoor dining at restaurants, breweries, wineries and bars for at least three weeks.

According to AM radio news station KNX 1070, the protest march was led by businessmen Ryan Choura and Trent Bryson near 2nd Street and the Pacific Coast Highway on Wednesday afternoon

The protesters demanded that Long Beach Health Department act independently of the Los Angeles County.

The march started at about 3:30 p.m. and lasted for about an hour.

Long Beach on Tuesday reported a record 1,264 new cases in roughly a week, the highest spike since the start of the pandemic.

In another development, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti announced on Wednesday thatvthe Secure Emergency Relief for Vulnerable Employees (SERVE) initiative, a new partnership between the Mayor’s Office and the Mayor’s Fund for Los Angeles, to provide 4,000 local food-service workers with a one-time $800 stipend.

"Employees in our food-service industry have had to make painful sacrifices — and we have to do everything possible to support them through this time of economic upheaval," said Mayor Garcetti.

"SERVE is designed to deliver relief and a little peace of mind to some of our most vulnerable workers — giving thousands of

LA Mayor Eric Garcetti

Angelenos a vital lifeline, putting money in their pockets to pay the bills, and upholding our promise to get through this unprecedented moment together."

To help ease the financial burden faced by food-service workers, Mayor Garcetti signed into law an ordinance that limits delivery app charges to restaurants — capping delivery fees to 15% and all other non-delivery charges to 5%.

Mayor Garcetti has also pushed for the expansion of his L.A. Al Fresco Program,

the City’s initiative to help local restaurants safely reopen for outdoor dining, and launched an $11 million economic relief package for small businesses impacted by COVID-19 last spring. He has also partnered with Ritual and PayPal to launch Open for Business — a collaboration to help restaurants and other small businesses across L.A. move to contactless transactions, implement touchless payments, and increase their online orders. To date, the program has served 704 restaurants through this partnership.

"As a restaurant owner, it's a day-to-day struggle to keep morale up when sales are down,” said Kim Prince, owner of Hotville Chicken.

“Since March 2020, our dining rooms have been shuttered and most recently, we had to close our patio due to the outdoor dining restrictions. However, the restaurant industry is resilient and is only as strong as our workers. The SERVE program for restaurant workers will boost morale and help our most vulnerable workers in

need."

To qualify for the program, applicants must reside within the City of Los Angeles; be 18 years of age or older; have an annual income in 2019 of $58,450 or below prior to the COVID-19 crisis, which is the threshold for the federal poverty level calculated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); and demonstrate economic hardship due to a job loss or at least a 50% reduction in income at a food service establishment as a front or back of house employee.

This includes restaurants, food stands, mobile food units and push carts, and breweries, wineries and bars that serve food on the premises. Recipients with confirmed eligibility will be selected and chosen from a randomized list.

Applications will open on Monday, December 7, at 9:00 AM and will close at midnight on Friday, December 11.

For more information on eligibility, how to apply, and additional COVID-19 support, visit our resources page at Coronavirus.LACity.org/SERVE.

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La Habra Art group hosts showing of Filipino movie

“1st Sem”

T

he La Habra Art Association Gallery and the Helpers of Mankind, will be hosting a one-time online screening of the multiawarded comedy-drama movie, “1st Sem.” The Filipino movie will have English and Spanish subtitles.

The showing will be on Sunday, December 13, 2020 at 5 pm. " 1st Sem" is a feel-good and family-oriented film that would surely inspire and light up your holidays. It won major awards in various international film festivals in California, New York, Texas, Washington, South Korea, Canada, and India.

The online movie screening will be followed by a Zoom virtual Q&A with filmmakers Allan Ibanez and Hemedez Dexter together with the awardwinning lead actress, Ms. Lotlot de Leon.

The online screening and the virtual Q&A are free but voluntary donations will be accepted.

Proceeds will benefit the La Habra Art Gallery and the Helpers of Mankind.

Part of the proceeds will also be donated to help the families displaced by Typhoon Ulysses which ravaged part of the Philippines recently.

PRRD... fROm PagE 1 outweigh the known and potential risks of the drug or vaccine if any.

The EUA, according to EO 121, may also be issued if there is no adequate, approved, and available alternative to the drug or vaccine for diagnosing, preventing, or treating Covid-19.

To apply for a EUA, an industry or government agency concerned must submit an application that demonstrates compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practice, and accompanied by an undertaking by the manufacturer to complete the development of the drug and vaccine, among others.

In evaluating applications for EUA, the FDA director general must have the power to implement reliance and recognition processes for emergency use of drugs and vaccines.

The FDA director general may accept the regulatory decision of the World Health Organization, US-Center for Disease Control and Prevention, or other internationally recognized and established regulatory authorities.

The FDA must convene a panel composed of experts on drug and vaccine development, which must conduct a review of available data on the safety and effectiveness of a Covid-19 drug or vaccine applied for a EUA. After review, the panel must submit to the FDA director general its report and recommendation on the application for EUA. Under the EO, the EUA will be valid only within the duration of the declared public health emergency due to Covid-19 without prejudice to the discretion of the

FDA director general to revisit or revoke the same, as may be appropriate, to protect the general public health and safety.

The FDA, together with other concerned offices of the DOH, must conduct post-authorization monitoring to track product deployment, additional relevant information, and the status from the manufacturer concerning full-product life cycle.

The holder of a EUA must be required to complete specific pharmacovigilance obligations, to provide comprehensive data confirming a positive benefit-risk balance.

The FDA must formulate and issue guidelines, as may be necessary, for the effectiveness of the order.

In signing the EO, Duterte recognized the need to strengthen interventions and responses against Covid-19 that other countries such as Australia, China, and the United States of America adopted and the World Health Organization recognized, the regulatory practice of issuing an Emergency Use Authorization to hasten the availability and use of Covid-19 drugs and vaccines, particularly those supported by strong evidence that patients have benefited from them in the absence of available approved and adequate alternatives.

“It is a priority of the state to ensure that the lives of the Filipino people, especially the underprivileged, poor, and marginalized, our front-liners, healthcare providers, police officers and soldiers, and those in the essential services shall be protected from Covid-19 by ensuring accessibility and adequacy of supply of related drugs and vaccines,” the EO read.

Vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez

Jr. earlier endorsed the proposal on the EUA for Covid-19 vaccines, saying it will guarantee 30 million to 50 million doses in the country by next year.

Last month, Duterte also approved the recommendation to make advance payments to suppliers of Covid-19 vaccines.

(MNS)

SINaS:... fROm PagE 1 of the MTC 2nd Judicial Region dated November 27, 2020.

Anakpawis said Echanis was charged with illegal possession of firearms, ammunition and explosives, but the group insisted that the weapons were all planted.

Police have noted that during Amanda's arrest, she insisted on bringing her onemonth-old baby.

At present, Echanis and her baby are staying in the regional office of Criminal Investigation and Detection Group. Authorities are coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development as regards the arrangement with the baby. (MNS)

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20%, you may have to get private mortgage insurance. (PMI insures the lender in case you default; it doesn’t insure the home.) The application fee varies by lender.

Upfront mortgage insurance: Some lenders require borrowers to pay the first year’s mortgage insurance premium upfront, while others ask for a lump-sum payment that covers the life of the loan.

Expect to pay from 0.55% to 2.25% of the purchase price for mortgage insurance, according to Genworth, Ginnie Mae and the Urban Institute.

In addition to monthly premiums, the FHA requires an upfront premium payment of 1.75% of the loan amount.

Property taxes: Buyers typically pay two months’ worth of city and county property taxes at closing.

Annual assessments: If your condo or homeowners association requires an annual fee, you might have to pay it upfront in one lump sum.

If your condo or homeowners association requires an annual fee, you might have to pay it upfront.”

Homeowners insurance premium: Usually, your lender requires that you purchase homeowner’s insurance before settlement, which covers the property in case of vandalism, damage and so on.

Some condo associations include insurance in the monthly condo fee. The amount varies depending on where you live and your home’s value.

to protect yourself in case title problems or claims are made on your home after closing. The owner’s coverage lasts as long as you or your heirs own the property.

The cost of the owner’s policy is about 0.5% to 1% of the purchase price, according to the American Land Title Association.

Whether the buyer or seller pays for title insurance varies by region. A discount is sometimes offered when both the lender’s and owner’s policies are purchased at the same time.

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Understanding Mortgage Loan Closing Fees: AFTER saving for a down payment, house hunting and applying for a mortgage, closing costs can come as an unpleasant and stressful surprise. Knowing what closing costs cover and budgeting for them will smooth out the final stretch of the home-buying process. Lets see how we can easily explain how to read and analyze closing estimated fee sheets.

What are closing costs?

Closing costs are the fees for the services and expenses required to finalize a mortgage. You’ll have to pay closing costs whether you buy a home or refinance.

There are so called Non-re occurring and Re-occuring fees. For those who are refinancing and a No Closing Cost Fees, that only pertain to the Non re occurring fees like your lender fees, escrow fees and title fees, I call them one time fees. To get to a no cost loan, the lender will bump the rate slightly higher to cover your one time closing cost. Therefore understanding how to get a no cost loan is critical if your refinancing. The rest of the fees like your Property Taxes, Insurance and Loan Interest are called Re occurring fees because the homebuyers will have to pay them on a refinance regardless.

How much are closing costs?

Average closing costs for the buyer run between about 2% and 3% of the loan amount. That means, on a $300,000 home purchase, you would pay from $6,000 to $9,000 in closing costs.

The most cost-effective way to cover your closing costs is to pay them out-ofpocket as a one-time expense. You may be able to finance them by folding them into the loan, if the lender allows, but then you’ll pay interest on those costs through the life of the mortgage.

When buying a home, you can comparison shop and negotiate some of the fees to lower your closing costs. Your lender is required to outline your closing costs in the Loan Estimate you receive when you first apply for the loan and in the Closing Disclosure document you receive in the days before the settlement. Review them closely and ask questions about anything you don’t understand.

Closing costs calculator Here are the fees that the buyer’s closing costs can include: Property-related fees Appraisal fee: It’s important to a lender to know if the property is worth as much as the amount you want to borrow. This is for two reasons: The lender needs to verify the amount you need for a loan is justified and make sure it can recoup the value of the home if you default on your loan. The average cost of a home appraisal by a certified professional appraiser ranges between $500-600.

Home inspection: Most lenders require a home inspection, especially if you’re getting a government-backed mortgage, such as an FHA loan insured by the Federal Housing Administration.

Loan-related fees Application fee: This covers the cost of processing your request for a new loan and includes costs such as credit checks and administrative expenses. The application fee varies depending on the lender and the amount of work it takes to process your loan application.

Prepaid interest: Most lenders require buyers to pay the interest that accrues on the mortgage between the date of settlement and the first monthly payment due date, so be prepared to pay that amount at closing; it will depend on your loan size.

Loan origination fee: This is a big one.

It’s also known as an underwriting fee, administrative fee or processing fee. The loan origination fee is a charge by the lender for evaluating and preparing your mortgage loan. This can cover document preparation, notary fees and the lender’s attorney fees. Expect to pay about 0.5% of the amount you’re borrowing. A $300,000 loan, for example, would result in a loan origination fee of $1,500.

Now a days, lenders don’t charge a loan origination nor discount fees unless your are getting a non conventional loan or Alternative Loan.

Title fees Owner’s title insurance: You should also consider purchasing title insurance

Mortgage closing documents With so many closing costs to consider, it’s obvious you’ll face a lot of paperwork just prior to and during the loan signing.

Two of the most important closing documents are the Loan Estimate and the Closing Disclosure.

You’ll receive the Loan Estimate three days after applying with a lender. It will officially detail all fees, the interest rate and the other costs to close your loan.

It’s legally binding, so you’ll want to read it carefully.

Then, three days from loan settlement and prior to making the big commitment, you’ll receive the Closing Disclosure from your lender. It confirms — or makes minor adjustments to — what you saw on the Loan Estimate. Again, it’s worth a big cup of coffee and a thorough review.

Thanks for your inquiries, please call Ken Go of 1st Innovative Finance Group at 562-508-7048 CABRE 01021223 NMLS 238636

Mortgage insurance fees Mortgage insurance application fee: If you make a down payment of less than

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7 BALITA viewpoint VIEWPOINT How Widows of US Citizens can still get their Green Card

Saturday-Friday | December 5 - 11, 2020

WIDOWS of U.S. citizens have many options of obtaining their greencard should their U.S. citizen spouse die.

Under INA Section 201(b)(2)(A)(i), Widows are allowed to remain classified as immediate relatives and to continue to be eligible to immigrate if they file an I-360 selfpetition within two years of the death of the U.S. citizen or to automatically convert an already-filed I-130 to an I-360. They must also show a good faith marriage, and demonstrate that they have not remarried to immigrate as an immediate relative Since 1938, US immigration regulations have provided for the automatic revocation of the approved visa petition upon the death of the Petitioner.

However, immigration regulations since 2006 provided that automatic revocation provisions does not apply to a spousal petitions of US Citizens if the deceased US Citizen petitioner and the alien widower had been married at least two years at the time petitioner died.

When the FY2010 DHS Appropriations Act was enacted on October 28,

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2009, the 2 year requirement was eliminated. Under section 568(c) of that act, it is no longer necessary for the husband and wife to have been married for 2 years when the citizen spouse died in order for the alien spouse to qualify as an immediate relative. The widow may remain an immediate relative as long as the widow was not legally separated from the citizen spouse at the time of death and the widow spouse files a petition within 2 years after the death of the citizen spouse or until the widow spouse remarries whichever comes earlier. INA Section 201(b)(2) (A)(i). Each child of the alien will also be considered an immediate relative under this section.

Widows with Pending Petitions Section 568(c) amendment is applicable to all pending petition on or after the date of the enactment. Pending includes denied I-130 that have pending motions to reopen or pending BIA appeal, and BIA denials pending federal court litigation. The amendment also applies to any form I-485 that was

Do You Have Too Much Debt And Not Enough Income?

ARE your growing debts starting to worry you and cause you sleepless nights? Are you trying hard to pay what you can every month but feel like you’re just running on a treadmill and not getting anywhere? Do you dread getting those credit card statements every month knowing that you don’t have the money to pay them?

According to a recent study, about one-third of households in this country are either just barely making it or are having trouble paying their debts each month. The Federal Reserve Board reports that consumer credit card debt is now about $1.1 trillion! In the last decade, credit card debt has increased 81 percent while the average family’s income grew only by 9%. This is scary.

If you are like the rest of the population and your debts are growing a lot faster than your income, how can you avoid debt from creeping up on you? The banks and the credit card companies know that when income is short, most people will resort to loans and credit cards to make up for the shortage in income. So now you know why consumer credit card debt is steadily increasing. Unless you get a handle on your finances and control your borrowing, before you know it, you would be buried in debt and it would be difficult for you to get out.

A lot of people owe so much in credit card debt that they will never pay off their debts in this lifetime. What’s sad is that because these people are just so used to being in debt, they have reached a point where they don’t even realize what their debts are actually costing them. So, like robots, they just continue to work long hours, sometimes 2-3 jobs just so they could continue to make the banks richer with the interest that they are paying on their debts. These people have zero savings and no money for unexpected emergencies. Any unexpected disruption of income can turn into a major catastrophe.

Financial planners tell us that we should try to keep our debt-to-income ratio below 36% (about 28% for housing and 8% for other recurring debt payments). To calculate your own ratio, divide your total monthly debt payments by your total monthly gross income. In your monthly debt payments, include your mortgage, car, loan and credit card payments. What do you get? What I usually find is that some people are way above this amount, sometimes as much as 70-80%!!!! And then they wonder why they never have enough money for food, utilities and other basic living expenses.

If your debts are out of control and you need help in figuring out what your options are, we can help you explore all your non-bankruptcy and bankruptcy alternatives. Bankruptcy is not always the solution to debt problems. If it is, we will explain to you how this may be your best option in getting a fresh financial start so you can start rebuilding your credit.

If you have other options available, I will point them out to you as well if they are worth considering. Bankruptcy should be your last option, not the first. NOTE: Due to COVID-19 pandemic, I am offering free consultations

BY PHONE to anyone who needs help in dealing with their debt problems.

(None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully helped over 5,000 clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call RJB Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1-866-477-7772).

pending on October 28, 2009.

Widows with Approved Petitions Any approved I-130 before the citizen petitioner death will be deemed an approved I-360. The widower may adjust along with any child.

Widows without Pending Petitions Widows may file I-360 self petition.

For citizen spouses that died prior to October 28, 2009, the deadline to file the I-360 is October 28, 2011. For citizen spouses that died on or after October 28, 2009, the deadline to file the self petition is within 2 years of the citizen's death. Affidavit of Support is not required for widows of a citizen and accompanying children.

USCIS does not require a Form I-864 Affidavit of Support for either the widow or the accompanying children in order to establish they will not become a public charge under INA Section 212(a) (4). A Form I-864W exemption should be filed. A widow and and accompanying children will not accumulate unlawful presence if they were the beneficiary of a spousal I-130 that was pending October 28,2009 and that was later approved as a self-petition.

If you are a widow who has a US Citizen spouse who passed away within the last 2 years, you should seek the representation of an experienced im-

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migration attorney to assist you with this process.

Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation.

Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010.

Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com. Web: kenreyeslaw.com

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Zarate rejects Roque's call to renounce armed struggle MANILA (Mabuhay) — Bayan Muna party-list Representative membership in the CPP and similar associations through Carlos Zarate on Thursday rejected the call of presidential Republic Act 7636, signed in September 1992 by then-Presispokesperson Harry Roque for left-leaning groups to renounce dent Fidel Ramos. armed struggle, saying it is a legitimate option of people Moreover, Zarate pointed out that the belief in armed strugagainst oppression. gle as a legitimate option against oppression cannot be treated In a statement, Zarate said that Roque asking them to re- as a crime as the right to political belief is protected under nounce armed struggle is "very disturbing" as it attacks their Article III, Section 18 of the Constitution, which states that right to freedom of thought and belief. "[n]o person shall be detained solely by reason of his political "While we work for social reforms through elections and beliefs and aspirations." legislation, we believe that as a matter of principle, we can"People who refuse to condemn the EDSA uprising or coups not condemn the peoples option to arm struggle because we against Ferdinand Marcos or Gloria Arroyo for example canbelieve that it is a legitimate option of the people when faced not be imprisoned based on their belief that the demands of with a foreign invader, a tyrant or a dictator such as Marcos these uprisings are legitimate and that Marcos and Arroyo or Idi Amin," he said. are illegitimate presidents," he said.

"More importantly, their demands such as addressing pov"It is not proof that because they do not condemn, they erty, injustice and other social ills which even the Philippine are involved or are 'fronts' of these uprisings," Zarate added. government recognizes as the root causes of rebellion in the Meanwhile, Bayan Muna party-list Representative Ferdicountry, are legitimate demands," he added. nand Gaite also hit Roque for his "inconsistency" in interRoque, in a press briefing on Tuesday, asked left-leaning preting the words of the President. groups to stop denying their alleged ties to communist re"Sabi dati ni Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque 'don’t bels and renounce the use of arms to destabilize the take the president’s words seriously.' Ngayon naman sigovernment. nasabi niya na dahil sinabi yan ng Pangulo ay talagang He made the remark after President Rodrigo purong katotohanan na iyan," he said.

"Maging consistent sana si Spokesperson Duterte accused militant organizations, including the House Makabayan Bloc, of participating Roque, kahit dyan na lamang siya maging in a grand conspiracy led by communist rebels to consistent," he added. oust the government, and tagged them as fronts Gaite said that unlike Roque, Bayan for the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Muna party-list has been consistent in and the National Democratic Front. their advocacy for the people ever since they were elected in Congress in 2001.

“Let’s be honest. Itigil na iyan na nagsisinungaling pa sila na red-tagging eh Red naman tala"Unlike Mr. Roque na bumaliktad na ga sila sabi ni Presidente. Totoo naman po iyan eh. sa marami niyang 'pinaninindigan' Ang hinihingi lang natin, you can be a Red without nung naipwesto siya, kami, tuloy-tuloy necessarily endorsing the use of arms,” Roque lang na nakatutok sa aming trabahad said. ho sa loob ng Kongreso, hindi para “Bakit pa kasi dini-deny. Hinihingi mag-endorso ng paggamit ng arlang natin, buwagin ninyo na iyang mas, kundi para mag-endorso ng mga party-list ninyo, tawagin ninyo mga panukalang batas na tunang CPP. Pero huwag na kayong mutugon sa pangangailangan susuporta sa NPA (New People's ng ating bayan," he added.

Army), dahil iyong pagsuporta sa Members of the Ma kaNPA makes it illegal,” he added. bayan Bloc have earlier deIt has been nearly three nied that they are members, decades, however, since the or even "fronts" of the CPP, NPA, government decriminalized or NDF. (MNS) REP. CARLOS ZARATE

Hontiveros seeks DBP documents on SEA Games venue loan M ANIL A (Mabuhay) — Senator Risa Hontiveros has requested from the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) documents relating to the P9.5-billion loan it extended to a Malaysian firm for the construction of venues for the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.

In a December 1 letter to the DBP, Hontiveros asked for "all documents and files in your possession vis-avis the Php9.5 billion loan extended by DBP to MTD Berhad sometime in May 2018."

MTD Capital Berhad was the partner of the Philippines' Bases Conversion and Development Authori-

ty (BCDA) for the construction of sports facilities at the New Clark City for the 2019 SEA Games.

Hontiveros' requested documents include the loan or credit agreement, the opinion of the DBP counsel, the codified approving and signing authority, minutes of the meeting where the loan was approved, and the management memorandum issued in connection with the loan.

At a press conference on Wednesday, Hontiveros said she is requesting the documents now so that they would not need to be subpoenaed.

The senator earlier filed a resolution seeking an in-

quiry in aid of legislation into the loan obtained by MTD Capital Berhad from the DBP. The BCDA and the Malaysian firm had entered into a joint venture agreement in which the BCDA would provide the land for the project while the MTD Berhad would provide capital.

But Hontiveros said the constr uction compa ny did not spend any capital and instead took out a loan from the DBP which the BCDA paid for using Filipino taxpayers' money.

The BCDA has claimed t hat t he joi nt vent u re ag reement w a s above board.

Hontiveros said the issue is not about Filipino athletes but is about accountability.

"Sa huli, ito ay tungkol sa accountability. Ito ay tungkol sa pagbabalewala at mistulang pag-araro ng public bidding requirements na napapaloob sa batas natin," the opposition senator said.

"Na sa huli, ang perang pinambayad sa inutang ng isang pribadong kompanya mula sa isang government bank… ay mula pala sa pera ng taumbayan," she added.

Hont iveros sa id she hopes the DBP will respond to her request within the week. (MNS)

Baguio City suspends night market operation over crowd control lapses MANILA (Mabuhay) — Baguio City mayor Benjamin Magalong has suspended the operation of the city's night market over lapses in crowd control.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, the city’s public information office said Magalong instructed City Treasurer Alex Cabarrubias and market superintendent Fernando Ragma Jr. to conduct a post-night market assessment on the incident.

"Identify our weak points and vulnerabilities and discuss solutions. I want feedback as soon as possible," Magalong, a former police officer, said.

The resumption of the operation in the night market on Tuesday was part of the city’s effort to reopen the economy and restore the livelihood

of vendors amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Magalong said the reopening of businesses should not disregard the health protocols against the virus and sacrifice the health and safety of the people.

"We must strike a balance between reopening the economy and safefuarding the health and safety of the people. This is our new normal direction,” he said.

On Tuesday night, the activity of the night market resumed along Harrison Road, according to the city’s public information office.

Only around 45% of the original vending slots or 481 stalls were allowed to open in consideration of the basic health protocols, specifically physical distancing.

Members of the Public Order and Safety Division and Baguio City Police Office monitored the area and reminded shoppers to maintain physical distancing as well as proper usage of face mask and face shield.

O n O c tober 22, Baguio City started to welcome tou r ists from Metro Man i la, Cagaya n Va l l e y, a n d Central Luzon after months of suspension on tourism activities due to the threat of COVID-19 transmission. (MNS)

Saturday-Friday | December 5 - 11, 2020

Church backs Simbang Gabi, novena Masses in gyms, other venues MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has made adjustments to the traditional celebration of the Aguinaldo Masses, Misa de Gallo or Simbang Gabi, even encouraging local government units to hold the nine-day novena Masses outside churches to accommodate more people while still observing social distancing.

The CBCP guidelines, signed by CBCP president and Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles, said the adjustments to the traditional practice of novena Masses from December 16 to 24 is only during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Kami po sa simbahan ay nagpapatupad din ng health protocols at wala po tayong nilalabag d'yan kaya po napakahalaga din ang ugnayan ng simbahan pati rin ng barangay, ng PNP para mapanatili natin yung kaayusan at pagtupad ng mga tao sa health protocols,” said Fr. Jerome Secillano, Executive Secretary of CBCP’s Committee on Public Affairs.

In an interview, Secillano said Masses in the evening can start as early as 6 p.m. and the last Aguinaldo masses, Misa de Gallo or Simbang Gabi can be at 6 a.m.

“Meron po tayong December 25 na misa. Pwede naman po 'yang madagdagan dahil 'yan po naman talaga 'yung Pasko ng Kapanganakan. 'Yun pong mga tao usually dumadagsa naman po 'yan kaya sigurado po yung mga Simbahan mas magdadagdag pa parang Sunday schedule po tawag namin dyan,” he said.

The COVID-19 pandemic has limited the number of mass-goers because of the strict protocol on social distancing in compliance with the guidelines set by the Inter-Agency Task Force against the spread of the virus.

The CBCP guidelines also stated that the Bishop of the place in consultation with pastors of parishes and the local government units could schedule more Simbang Gabi Masses in different venues to accommodate more people.

‘Color of love’: PH churches turn red for persecuted Christians, COVID-19 sick, frontliners “Sa Simbahan 30 percent lang ang ina-accommodate na mass goers kaya pwede sa gymnasium 'yan,” said Secillano.

Secillano said the Bishop, Parish Priest will be the ones who will coordinate with the LGUs for the possible holding of Simbang Gabi in bigger venues outside churches.

The Church still encourages live streaming of liturgical celebrations for those who are still unable to attend Mass physically.

Mea nw h i le, Sec i l la no sa id churches could install more television screens outside for people who cannot be accommodate inside to hear Mass. (MNS)

Saturday-Friday | December 5 - 11, 2020

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'Red-tagging' amid budget season meant to secure funds for campaign vs. supposed insurgents — Lagman MANILA (Mabuhay) — Albay Representative Ed"After the end of World War II, the Huks fought NTF-ELCAC spokesperson Lieutenant General cel Lagman believes the military's propensity to for socio-economic reforms, including the eman- Antonio Parlade, Jr. earlier said that Makabayan "red-tag" while Congress is deliberating on the cipation of landless farmers, and were tagged as Bloc members and former Bayan Muna party-list proposed 2021 national budget is a "calculated" communists," Lagman added.

Representative Neri Colmenares were under surmove to secure more funds for its campaign against The House Makabayan Bloc has consistently op- veillance for being "card-bearing" members of the suspected insurgents and terrorists. posed the P19-billion allocation for the NTF-ELCAC Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

"Red-tagging appears to be relentlessly pursued in the proposed 2021 budget.

But the progressive lawmakers believe this move by military officials to justify the retention of the This P19.1 billion, they said, could be better used was only a way for the NTF-ELCAC leadership to recently formed National Task Force to End Local to augment the budget for healthcare, job creation, hit back at them after they exposed the "generals' Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) which and provision of assistance to those affected by the pork" under the task force's budget for 2021. has a huge budgetary outlay of close to P20-billion COVID-19 pandemic, instead of it being utilized "to They have since denied that they are members or and has been labeled as the 'military’s pork barrel,'" spread fake news, red tag and intimidate freedom "fronts" of the CPP, the New People's Army, and NaLagman said in a statement. loving citizens of this country." tional Democratic Front of the Philippines. (MNS) Lagman said a similar scenario was seen back in the 1950s and the 1960s, right after World War II. "This is reminiscent of the military’s MANILA (Mabuhay) — National Task Force Against for universities and colleges. foisting the paranoia of 'budgetary Huks' COVID-19 chief implementer Carlito Galvez Jr. said Last week, Education Secretary Leonor Briones during the decades covering the 1950s to Wednesday the government may allow face-to-face said the Department of Education was studying the 1960s to dramatize the need for more alclasses but this will be done on a case-to-case basis. possibility of a gradual return to face-to-face classes locations to subdue the erstwhile HukbaGalvez made the statement a day after he inspected in 2021 in light of the positive developments on the lahap (Hukbong Bayan Laban sa Hapon)," Our Lady of Fatima University in Valenzuela City, production of COVID-19 vaccines. he said. which is retrofitting its campus in order to comply However, the DepEd said this would require a shared with COVID-19 protocols. responsibility among various stakeholders.

“Hindi pupuwede sila po na mag-open hanggang “Titingnan po namin, makikipag-coordinate po hindi po natin na-inspect,” he said at the Laging Han- kami kay Secretary Briones on how we could really da briefing. expedite and look at the possibility na magkaroon “There is a third party that will really validate if they po ng tinatawag [na] reconfiguration ang different follow the minimum health standard at saka iyong schools so that we can really follow and obey iyong reengineering at reconfiguration ay nagawa ayon sa minimum health standard,” Galvez said. sinasaad ng ating DOH [Department of Health] sa “Nakita po namin dati kasi na talagang based doon minimum health standard protocols.” sa mga studies ay talagang nagiging super spreaders Galvez said he favors in-person classes for medical ang mga bata. At nakita po natin dito sa ngayon na hincourses, citing the pandemic task force’s recent deci- di pa po tayo puwedeng magkumpiyansa, kasi iyong sion to allow the resumption of the University of the ating mga figures hindi pa po irreversible,” he added.

Philippines College of Medicine’s face-to-face clinical President Rodrigo Duterte had earlier said that internship program. learners should not physically attend classes until a “Mayroon tayong mga tinatawag na mga courses na COVID-19 vaccine becomes available. dapat talaga mayroon talagang tinatawag na experienThe COVID-19 pandemic forced the Philippines to tial learning or tinatawag nating face-to-face,” he said. shift to distance learning this academic year, which The Commission on Higher Education indicated on includes the use of modules and supplemented by Tuesday that face-to-face classes would be optional broadcast and online classes. (MNS) REP. EDCEL LAGMAN

Face-to-face classes will be approved on case-to-case basis — Galvez

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CAREGIVERS: What are you waiting for?

A Letter from Caregiver Attorney Daniel Chaleff I RECEIVED a call the other day from a caregiver who has been reading my articles in Weekend Balita for over 3 years. I was so happy to receive this call. I am sure many of you reading this advertisement now have cut out and saved my articles or read them over the years and thought “I have that exact claim.” Many caregivers have valuable claims for unpaid overtime but are fearful of moving forward with a claim. Now is the time to take action and learn more about caregiver overtime law. I want to hear from you.

I want to assure you that all communications with me are confidential and all consultations are free. I understand many caregivers work long hours with little free time. I am available for free consultations early in the morning before your patient awakens or late at night after your patient is asleep. I also work weekends if you have a 24/5, Monday to Friday job. I do not pressure caregivers to make a claim. If I simply educate you about the law and give you some free advice that would make me very happy. Even if you are not ready to make a claim now, you should reach out and speak with me about your claim. I can provide valuable advice about your situation and talk with you about the best time to make a claim.

If you are a 24/7 caregiver, working for a day rate (i.e. $160 to $240 per day), with no overtime, for several years, your claim may be worth several hundred thousand dollars. Many of my clients have claims that exceed $500,000. One key to a successful claim is your employer needs to be wealthy to afford to pay for a large settlement. If I am provided information about your employers,

I can research public records and get a snapshot of your employer’s wealth and evaluate your potential claim. If you are interested in a deta i led ex pla nat ion of cla im values, you can visit my website at www.caregiverovertime.com/pa/ worth/ for an article that calculates a hypothetical claim’s value.

I k now ma ny ca reg ivers a re fearful of moving forward with valid claims due to their immigration status, a failure to pay taxes, or fear of the legal system. While all of these are valid concerns, in my opinion, the risks associated with these concerns are minimal versus the potentially lifechanging reward that awaits caregivers with the courage to move forward with claims. So many of my clients had recovered life changing settlements allowing them to retire to their home countries, make a down payment or build a home, help a child with education expenses, or send money to their families. If you would like to review an article that addresses common concerns caregivers have in pursuing an overtime claim, please visit my website at www.caregiverovertime.com/pa/concerns/.

I understand that the decision to move forward with an overtime claim can be difficult. Many caregivers I speak with are simply not ready to move forward at this time. That is okay. Even if our call does not result in your making a claim, I can provide valuable insight into your rights, educate you on the evidence needed to pursue your claim, and help you understand the powerful laws that can protect you from wage theft.

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President Duterte welcomes seven new ambassadors MANILA (Mabuhay) — Seven newly designated ambassadors to the Philippines presented their credentials to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Wednesday with the Philippine leader expressing hope for a stronger cooperation with the countries they represent in areas of trade, education, counter-terrorism and healthcare.

Among those who virtually presented their credentials to the President include Ambassadors Shambhu Santha Kumaran, Republic of India; Claudio Alberto Rojas Rachel, Republic of Chile; Dr. Titanilla Tóth, Hungary; Marat Ignatyevich Pavlov, Russian Federation; Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad Kazi, Islamic Republic of Pakistan; Juha Markus Pyykkö, Republic of Finland; and Ahmed Shehabeldin Ibrahim Abdullah, Arab Republic of Egypt.

In accepting the letter of credence of Russian Ambassador Marat Ignatyevich Pavlov, President Duterte, speaking from Malago Club House, said the Philippines considers Russia a good friend and partner having strengthened cooperation over the years in defense and security, health, science and technology, and economy.

“We aim for an even more robust and deeper cooperation in the coming years,” he told the Russian envoy. “We thank Russia for its offer to supply Sputnik V and

share its technology on vaccine production with the Philippines.”

President Duterte reiterated his invitation for President Vladimir Putin to visit the Philippines, as soon as circumstances will allow, as the two countries mark their 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year.

Responding to the message of Indian Ambassador Shambhu Kumaran, President Duterte said the Indian-Philippine relation was driven by synergies between his administration’s Independent Foreign Policy and India’s Act East Policy.

He said he looks forward this year to honoring Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi who invited him to visit India, even as they plan for a virtual summit.

“The Philippines is committed to further enhance cooperation with India in defense, security, trade and investments, and in combatting the COVID-19 pandemic,” the President told the Indian ambassador.

Dr. Titanilla Tóth of Hungary said she would exert her efforts to strengthen relations between the Philippines and Hungary and enhance mutual beneficial cooperation in trade, water management, education and cultural activities.

In his response, the President thanked Hungary for supporting the Philippines

Hungary Ambassador Titanilla Tóth presents her letter of credence to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte as the new resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiarydesignate to the Philippines during the virtual presentation of credentials at the Malacañang Palace on December 2, 2020. (MNS photo) in the multilateral fora in line with his government’s policy of non-intervention in the domestic affairs of other countries.

He also welcomed Hungary’s financial cooperation proposal to facilitate expanded collaboration on water management and other areas.

At the same time, he expressed his gratitude to Hungary’s scholarship program for Filipino students pursuing advanced degrees noting the endeavor will help foster amity and mutual appreciation between the two countries.

Addressing the Finnish ambassador, President Duterte said the Philippines welcomes Finland’s decision to re-open its embassy in Manila this year.

“We look forward to enhancing our bilateral cooperation on various areas of mutual interest,” he said.

“We are particularly interested in ex-

PRRD to call for global solidarity vs. COVID-19 at UN special session MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte will participate in the special session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on the COVID-19 pandemic on Thursday, Malacañang said.

Duterte’s office said the President will further amplify his call for global solidarity in addressing the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic during the virtual meeting, which will begin at 9 a.m. New York time (10 p.m. in Manila).

“Of particular concern for President Duterte are universal access to anti-COVID-19 technologies and products and the need for global efforts to ensure availability of safe and effective vaccines to peoples of developing nations,” the Palace said.

The President had earlier said all nations, rich and poor, must have equal access to immunization.

At the 75th session of the UNGA in September, Duterte

said access to vaccines “must not be denied nor withheld.”

Duterte also made a similar call at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summits last month.

“The special session provides an opportunity for the international community to assess and hone its collective response to this pandemic,” the UN said in a statement.

“The two-day special session will allow many stakeholders to share their experiences in fighting the pandemic, reflect on the global response to date, and forge a united, coordinated, and people-centered path forward.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has so far infected 64.4 million people and claimed nearly 1.5 million lives worldwide, according to a tally by the Johns Hopkins University & Medicine Coronavirus Resource Center. (MNS)

panding ties, particularly in ICT, renewable energy, and clean technology,” the President added, noting his government appreciates Finland’s support for the peace processes through the years.

Welcoming Pakistan’s ambassador to the Philippines, the President recognized the friendly ties between the Philippines and Pakistan spanning over seven decades.

His government he said is keen on enhancing the two countries’ overall bilateral relationship, particularly in trade and investments.

He also extended an invitation for military-to-military exchanges and sharing of intelligence and best practices, particularly in countering terrorism and violence.

In welcoming the new Chilean ambassador to the Philippines, President Duterte said his government looks forward to further enhancing cooperation with Chile particularly in trade and investments, disaster risk management, agriculture, geothermal energy, tourism, and culture.

He also thanked Chile’s government for the hospitality it extended to Filipinos in the Latin American country and for the assistance in the repatriation of stranded Filipino seafarers during the pandemic.

Chile and the Philippine will celebrate next year 75 years of friendly ties.

The President also welcomed Egypt’s new envoy to the Philippines saying he hopes to further build stronger cooperation with the Arab country in trade, agriculture, and cultural exchanges as well as in security and combatting terrorism and violent extremism. (MNS)

Saturday-Friday | December 5 - 11, 2020

Other countries tap military for COVID-19 inoculation, says vaccine czar

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Other countries are tapping their military to help in the COVID-19 inoculation drive, an official leading the country's pandemic response said Wednesday, following criticism over President Rodrigo Duterte's choice of former generals to lead response to the health crisis.

The scale of vaccination against COVID-19 is "unprecedented" and requires a "whole of government approach," said Secretary Carlito Galvez, chief implementer of the National Task Force Against COVID-19.

A military general is heading Canada's vaccination drive, while the UK is tapping the "full force of the military in order to utilize their resources, their capabilities... to deliver and transport iyong mga (the) vaccine in a quick time," said Galvez, a former general.

Why is COVID-19 vaccine czar an ex-general? 'Managerial skills' needed, says Palace "The resources of the military can be utilized," he said in a public briefing.

The government will also seek the help of private hospitals and universities with medical courses, which can be used as vaccine centers, said Galvez, the country's vaccine czar.

"We will mobilize both the public and private sector utilities to have iyong tinatawag (the so-called) na maximized vaccination of all our people in a quick timeframe," he said. (MNS)

Creation of anti-drug abuse councils gets final House nod MANILA (Mabuhay) — The House of Representatives on Wednesday overwhelmingly approved on third reading a measure creating anti-drug abuse councils (ADACs) in all provinces, cities, municipalities, and barangays across the country.

With 200 affirmative votes, zero negative votes, and no abstention, the chamber passed on third and final reading House Bill 7812, which seeks to institutionalize anti-drug abuse councils to ensure the smooth implementation of anti-drug abuse programs and services that are readily accessible to all Filipinos.

Iloilo City Rep. Julienne Baronda, one of the principal authors of the bill, said the institutionalization of the ADACs is an effort to help President Rodrigo Duterte in his campaign against illegal drugs.

Under the bill, the ADAC refers to a multi-sectoral council composed of local officials and representatives of various community organizations tasked to spearhead the planning, implementation, and monitoring of all local anti-drug abuse programs, projects, and activities.

It shall also serve as an information-gathering mechanism that would monitor and report to appropriate authorities suspicious illegal drug personalities, facilities, and activities within their jurisdiction.

Quezon City Rep. Jose Christopher Belmonte, another author, said the bill delineates the specific roles of the provincial, city, and municipal anti-drug abuse councils to guarantee that there is no overlap or discrepancy in any inter-local governmental effort.

The bill seeks the creation of a drug rehabilitation program consisting of medical rehabilitation, reformatory rehabilitation, and community-based drug rehabilitation.

It also mandates the concerned local government units to appropriate 2 percent of their annual budget to fund the creation and operation of the ADACs and implement the provisions of the proposed law. (MNS)

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Lorenzana says gov't ready to resume peace talks but sincerity of Reds needed MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippine government is ready to return to the peace negotiating table with the communists only if the latter will be sincere, according to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Wednesday.

"Yes the peace talks, the government is ready, the President is ready but kailangan lang natin ng... what we want from them is a little bit of sincerity," Lorenzana said.

"Kasi napakinggan naman natin 'yung sinabi ni (NDF panel chairman Luis) Jalandoni na the peace talk is only a means to advance the revolutionary movement of the CPP-

NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army) so the peace talks instrument lang," he added.

Lorenzana also dared the members of progressive group Makabayan bloc to condemn the communist group and their activities if they want the Philippines to prosper.

It was Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan who stressed the importance of aggressive peace negotiations in ushering economic development during a Senate inquiry on Tuesday about the alleged red tagging of the military.

For Southern Luzon Command chief Lieutenant General Antonio Parlade

Jr., resuming the peace talks with the rebels is foolish.

President Rodrigo Duterte terminated peace negotiations with the communist group in November 2017, with the Palace citing the alleged lack of sincerity and commitment on the part of the communists.

In 2018, the Department of Justice asked a Manila court to formally declare the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization.

The said petition has been junked and then revived again by the court in February 2020. To date, a ruling regarding this is still pending. (MNS)

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Duterte invites Putin anew to visit PH MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Rod(Hungary), Imtiaz Ahmad Kazi (Pakirigo Duterte on Wednesday invited Russtan), Juha Markus Pyykkö (Finland), sian President Vladimir Putin to visit and Ahmed Shehabeldin Ibrahim Abthe Philippines next year “as soon as dullah (Egypt). circumstances allow”.

He expressed commitment to further Duterte extended the invitation enhance Philippines-India cooperation through new Russian Ambassador to the in defense, security, trade and investPhilippines Marat Ignatyevich Pavlov ment, and in combatting the Covid-19 who was in Malacañan Palace to present pandemic and looked forward to honhis credentials to the President. oring the invitation of Indian Prime “Next year marks the 45th anniversaMinister Narendra Modi to visit India. ry of our diplomatic relations. I take this Duterte also thanked Chile for the opportunity to reiterate my invitation hospitality extended to Filipinos in to President Vladimir Putin to visit the Chile and the assistance in the repaPhilippines as soon as our circumstanctriation of stranded Filipino seafarers es will allow. It will be an opportunity during this pandemic and vowed to ento celebrate and reaffirm the enduring hance Philippine-Chilean cooperation friendship and cooperation between in trade and investments, disaster risk our countries,” he said in his speech. management, agriculture, geothermal In October 2019, then Russian Amenergy, tourism, and culture bassador Igor Khovaev said Putin had He extended gratitude to Hungary for already accepted Duterte’s invitation. supporting the Philippines in the mulIf Putin pushes through with the visit, ti-lateral fora in line their government’s it will be his first visit to Manila. Duterte policy of non-intervention in domestic PH President Rodrigo Duterte and Russian President Vladimir Putin has visited Russia twice— in 2017 and affairs of other countries and expressed 2019. appreciation for Hungary’s scholarship Duterte also thanked Russia for their offer to provide the Philippines with doses for the Filipino students pursuing advance degrees. of their potential vaccine for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

Recalling his visit aboard the Pakistan Navy Ship “Saif” in 2017, Duterte vowed to “We thank Russia for its offer to supply Sputnik V and share this technology on pursue Philippine-Pakistan military to military exchanges, sharing of intelligence and best practices, particularly encountering terrorism and violence. vaccine production with the Philippines,” he said.

Russia earlier said that its Sputnik V vaccine, developed by the Gamaleya ScienHe welcomed Finland’s decision to reopen its embassy in Manila this year and tific Research Institute and the Russian defense ministry, is 92 percent effective at looked forward to enhancing bilateral cooperation in various areas of mutual protecting people from Covid-19 based on interim trial results. interest particularly in information and communication technologies, renewable In the same speech, Duterte said he considers Russia a “good friend and partner”. energy, and clean technology.

“Over the past few years, we have strengthened cooperation in defense and The President expressed hope that the Philippines and Egypt would build on their security, health, science technology, and the economy of our countries. We aim warm and fruitful ties for the past seven decades in strengthening cooperation for an ever more robust and deeper cooperation in the coming years,” he said. in trade, agriculture, cultural exchanges, as well as in security and combatting Duterte also accepted the credentials of six other Ambassadors namely Shamb- terrorism and violent extremism. He also thanked Egypt for the “kind treatment” hu Santha Kumaran (India), Claudio Alberto Rojas Rachel (Chile), Titanilla Tóth accorded to over 5,000 Filipinos living and working there. (MNS)

PH AIR FORCE GETS 57 UNITS OF AVIATION ENGINEERING EQUIPMENT MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Air Force (PAF) held the blessing of 57 units of aviation engineering equipment which are expected to close the capability gaps of the 355th Aviation Engineer Wing (AEW) during short ceremonies at Basa Air Base, Florid-

ablanca, Pampanga on Wednesday.

In a statement Thursday, Lt. Col. Aristides Galang, said Air Force commander, Lt. Gen. Allen T. Paredes, graced the blessing as guest-of-honor.

He said the aviation engineering equipment consists of nine trucks, four hydrostatic bulldozers, one compact backhoe loader, six equipment haulers, eight self-loading mixers, 12 excavators, and 17 road rollers.

Galang said these will be utilized for all pavement projects of the 355th AEW and are expected to solve identified gaps in the unit's construction capability. This covers surveying, design, area preparation, construction proper, rehabilitation and demolition of structures, and mission essential support equipment.

Also, these aviation engineering equipment are expected to perform general engineering, including during humanitarian assistance and disaster response and providing combat aviation support in times of conflict.

"All of these equipment including

the previous acquisition projects of the PAFAEE (Philippine Air Force Aviation Engineering Equipment) will be distributed and permanently deployed to the different PAF major installations once the reorganization

is conceived," Galang said.

He added that the reorganization highlights the placing of eight PAF civil engineer squadrons all over the country under the administrative control of the 355th AEW. (MNS)

NEW EQUIPMENT. A chaplain leads the blessing of 57 units of aviation engineering equipment of the Philippine Air Force at the Basa Air Base, Floridablanca, Pampanga on Wednesday (Dec. 2, 2020). The equipment consists of trucks, hydrostatic bulldozers, a compact backhoe loader, equipment haulers, self-loading mixers, excavators, and road rollers. (MNS photo)

Manny Pacquiao is new president of Duterte's PDP-Laban

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Senator Manny Pacquiao is now the president of President Rodrigo Duterte's party PDP-Laban, a party official said on Wednesday night.

Party executive director Ron Munsayac said Speaker Lord Allan Velasco was the party's new executive vice president.

"Let's welcome our new PDP-Laban party President Sen. Manny Pacquiao & EVP Speaker Lord Velasco!" Munsayac said on Twitter.

The tweet had a picture of Senator Aquilino Pimentel III appearing to swear in the two party officials.

Pacquiao replaced Pimentel, who is now executive vice chairman.

A statement by Munsayac, however, said Pacquiao was "acting national president" of the ruling party.

“Pimentel has passed on SENATOR MANNY PACQUIAO

the practical day-to-day leadership of the party to one with new, ‘modern’ ideas and one who has the time, energy, and boldness to prepare the Party for the 2022 national and local elections,” Munsayac said.

He added that the new party leaders would work “very closely” with their chairman Duterte.

In June this year, Top Rank promoter Bob Arum said boxer-turned-senator Pacquiao had plans to run for president in 2022.

"The first president I think we’ll get as a fighter is little Manny Pacquiao, who told me, once again, I did a Zoom telephone call with him, ‘Bob, I’m gonna run in 2022 and, when I win, I want you there at my inauguration,'” he said.

Pacquiao, 41, will end his first term as senator in 2022 after winning a Senate seat in the 2016 elections.

As early as 2016, Duterte had declared that the boxer would become president.

Pacquiao and presidential spokesman Harry Roque recently came under fire for attending mass gatherings where health protocols such as social distancing were violated amid the coronavirus pandemic.

They both welcomed possible investigations into their violations. (MNS)

Saturday-Friday || December December 55 -- 11, 11, 2020 2020 Saturday-Friday

PH 'trying hard' to get COVID-19 vaccine from 'friends' as rich nations snap up supply — official MANILA (Mabuhay) — With rich countries cornering around fourfifths of the projected supply of COV ID-19 vaccine candidates, the Philippines is "trying hard" to secure its own share from its "diplomatic friends," an official leading the country’s pandemic response said Wednesday.

Wealthy nations have snapped up "more than 80 percent" of the potential vaccines, while the World Health Organization and COVID-19 global vaccine alliance, known as COVAX, got 2 percent. This leaves 18 percent of the supply up for grabs, said Secretary Carlito Galvez, chief implementer of the National Task Force Against COVID-19.

"And there really is an acute sources or supply of vaccine. With that, nakikita nating realistic scenario ay makapag-roll out tayo ng vaccine is during the middle of the second quarter," said Galvez, who is also the country’s vaccine czar.

"But we a re tr y ing ha rd na makakuha po tayo ng vaccine mule sa mga diplomatic friends natin tulad ng China, Australia and other countries like US, na makakuha po tayo ng vaccine during the first quarter," he said in a public briefing.

Among the vaccine makers that the Philippines is negotiating with are China's Sinovac and SinoPharm, which might make their products available in the first quarter of next year, said Galvez.

Sinovac's after-sale service includes the delivery, storage and distribution of the virus, he said.

The Philippines is also talking with 4 US drug groups. These include Pfizer which has signed a non-disclosure agreement that covers the advance payment for the vaccine, Galvez said.

Last week, local private firms signed a deal to buy 2.6 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine candidate of UK's AstraZeneca, half of these will be given to the government and the rest to their own company employees.

The government is negotiating with AstraZeneca for 1 more million doses, Galvez earlier said.

(MNS)

Business BUSINESS 12 Customs ports exceed November target collection Visit www.Balita.com www.Balita.com Visit

MANILA (Mabuhay)— Twelve of the 17 collection districts of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) have surpassed its collection target for November.

In a statement, the Bureau said it collected some PHP44.691 billion last month with a surplus of PHP2.47 billion or 5.85 percent.

The November target collection is PHP42.221 billion.

The 12 ports that have exceeded collection are the Port of Manila (PHP4.66 billion posting a surplus of PHP245 million); Port of NAIA (PHP2.99 billion surplus of PHP283 million); Port of Batangas (PHP12.07 billion surplus of PHP1.95 billion); Port of Cebu (PHP2.58 billion surplus of PHP96 million); Port of Tacloban (PHP222.39 million surplus of PHP19 million); Port of Surigao (PHP6.36 million surplus of PHP5.2 million).

Port of Cagayan De Oro (PHP2.47 billion surplus of PHP40 million; Port of Zamboanga (PHP450 million surplus of PHP71 million); Port of Davao (PHP2.62 billion surplus of PHP141 million); Port of Subic (PHP2.43 billion surplus of PHP135 million); Port of Clark (PHP159.19 million surplus of PHP16 million); and Port of Aparri (PHP133.41 million surplus of PHP68.6 million).

The recent collection surplus recorded the Bureau's consistent and positive monthly collection for the sixth month since June 2020 despite the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

It added that since January 2020, the BOC collected PHP493.324 billion, reflecting 97.47 percent of the 2020 target collection of PHP506.150 billion.

Meanwhile, the Bureau on Tuesday reported that Port of Clark has recently destroyed expired medicines, cosmetic products without government health approval, and various abandoned goods.

According to District Collector Ruby Alameda, the 4,146 kgs. of goods were condemned last November 24 at Trece Martires City, Cavite.

The items include expired medicines, food supplements, cosmetic products, expired foodstuff, etc., which were

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Consistent with the directive of Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero to inspect and dispose of all abandoned and overstaying cargoes, the Bureau of Customs – Port of Clark dispose of expired medicines, cosmetic products without FDA health approval and various abandoned goods through condemnation last November 24, 2020 at Trece Martires City, Cavite. Among the 4,146 kgs. of goods that were condemned include assorted expired medicines, food supplements, cosmetic products, expired foodstuff, etc. which were imported without the necessary permit/approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as required under Section 117 of R.A. 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. (MNS photo)

imported without the necessary permit/approval from the Food and Drug Administration as required under Section 117 of Republic Act 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. The condemnation activity was conducted in accordance with Section 1145 of the CMTA and facilitated by the Port of Clark Auction and Cargo Disposal Unit headed by Venus Juico in the presence of representatives from the FDA, Commission on Audit, Enforcement, and Security Service and Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service.

The BOC did not provide the amount of the condemned goods. (MNS)

Unemployment eases to 3.8M in October from April's over 7M MANILA (Mabuhay) — The number of jobless Filipinos dropped further in October to 3.3 million from 7.2M last April as the economy slowly bounces back on the back of the gradual reopening of the businesses after months of lockdowns to contain the spread of COVID-19.

In a virtual press conference on Thursday, National Statistician Claire Dennis Mapa reported that unemployment rate was recorded at

8.7% in October. This is equivalent to 3.8M adult individuals without jobs or livelihoods during the period. “[Nasa] 3.8 milyong Pilipino na nasa labor force ay walang trabaho o negosyo nitong nakaraang October 2020. Ito ay mas mataas ng 1.8 milyon kaysa sa bilang noong October 2019 na nasa 2.0 milyong indibidwal na walang trabaho o negosyo,” Mapa said, citing the results of

the Philippine Statistics Authority's (PSA) July 2020 Labor Force Survery.

But unemployment rate in October is an improvement compared to 10% rate recorded in July, equivalent to 4.6 million unemployed adult individuals.

It also compares with the record-high unemployment rate recorded in April -- at the height of strict community quarantines -- at 17.7% or 7.2M jobless adults. (MNS)

ARTA urges LGUs to comply with Ease of Doing Business law

M A N IL A ( Mabu hay) — The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) urged the local government officials to effectively implement and comply with Republic Act 11032, known as Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Services Delivery Act of 2018.

ARTA Director General Jeremiah Belgica made this call as he apprised the local government officials of Western Samar and Tacloban City during the launching of the Philippine Moral Transportation at Catbalogan and Calbayog City on November 26.

Belgica served as the guest speaker for the launch of the program, an initiative of the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Religious Affairs.

Also present were representa t i v e s from the Department of

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the Interior and Local Government, Department of Health, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and the Philippine National Police.

On November 27, Belgica paid a courtesy visit to Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez and conducted a surprise inspection of the city’s Business One-Stop Shop, one of the services offered by the city government through the Business Permits and Licensing Division in compliance with R.A. 11032.

“Ang tren ng reporma ay umiikot sa iba'tibang mga rehiyon sa bansa upang palakasin ang ating kampanya kontra red-tape.

Nais nating mapagtibay ang presenya ng Anti-Red Tape Authority at maihatid ang reporma ng Ease of Doing Business Law para sa ating mga kababayan (The process of reforms moves around different regions in the country to strengthen our campaign against red tape. We want to make the presence of Anti-Red Tape Authority felt and bring about reforms of East of Doing Business Law for our people),” Belgica said in a news release on Tuesday.

Belgica also met with the Department of Trade and Industry – Tacloban Regional Director Celerina Bato to discuss deputizing the regional personnel of the office to perform the powers and functions of ARTA which is in accordance with the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the law.

The Philippines was ranked as the seventh best country in the world to invest in or do business for 2020, according to

CEO Magazine.

In an article posted on its website https:// www.theceomagazine.com/business/finance/countries-invest on April 29, the CEO Magazine said the Philippines got a total score of 81.5 based on the report released

by CEOWORLD in February when some countries have already reported confirmed cases of the deadly coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

The CEOWORLD study analyzed 80 countries according to business and investment environments. Corruption, freedom, workforce, investor protection, infrastructure, taxes, quality of life, red tape and technological readiness were among the factors taken into consideration.

The Philippines scored high in terms of constitutional framework (94.9), education and research (94.8), market potential (92.8) and trade openness (91.3).

Economic stability (69.8), skilled labor force (64.61), and government policies (62.54) were also measured.

Singapore topped the list of most attractive nations for investors and business people followed by the UK, Poland, Indonesia and India.

Australia was in 6th place followed by the Philippines, the US, Malaysia, and Czech Republic.

The United Arab Emirates, Germany, China, and Japan ranked 12th, 16th, 31st, and 32nd, respectively, among the world’s best countries to invest in or do business this year. (MNS)

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Ritz Azul in shock after her 2 films make MMFF 2020 'magic 10'

ritZ aZuL MANILA (Mabuhay) — Ritz Azul almost fell off her chair at the virtual conference organized by Globe Upstream to announce the final selection of the top 10 entries for this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).

The actress represented her movie, the Regal Films’ horror thriller “The Missing,” which was chosen as one of the magic 10.

But midway through the conference, she was belatedly told by another producer that her fantasy comedy movie “Mang Kepweng: Ang Lihim ng Bandanang Itim” also made the cut.

“Gulat na gulat ako sa nangyari today pero grateful po ako na 'yung dalawang movies na ginawa ko last year ay pumasok sa MMFF this year.

It’s a rare opportunity po," she excitedly told ABS-CBN News about her unique position in the festival which will streamed online for the first time.

“Makapasok pa lang ang isa, masayang masaya na. And siyempre masaya rin tayong lahat dahil tuloy na tuloy pa rin ang MMFF. Kahit nasa gitna tayo ng pandemic, nandito tayo para magbigay ng entertainment sa panahon na ‘to.”

In “The Missing,” Azul portrays a restoration architect who suffers depression while at work in a haunted house in Saga, Japan. She co-stars with Joseph Marco and Miles Ocampo in the movie inspired by “The Ring” and “The Grudge” and directed by Easy Ferrer who also blended it with Filipino horror elements.

What’s more surprising is Azul’s revelation that she channeled her own mother in depicting her character. “My mother also suffered depression. Nakita ko how a word or situation, no matter how subtle, can trigger her. It also worsened with medication. Thankfully, she has overcome it now,” she said.

In “Mang Kepweng,” Azul plays support, as the queen of the fantasy world Engkandia, to the titular character of Vhong Navarro.

“Seryoso ang role. Nahirapan lang ako dahil sa kalokohan nina Vhong at Ryan Bang on the set," she said.

Director Topel Lee also boasts of the “It’s Showtime”-like casting of the latest edition of the Mang Kepweng franchise which also stars Ion Perez. “Ang kulang na lang mag-cameo si Vice Ganda,” he joked.

For the first time in many years, the MMFF will not show any Vice Ganda starrer. The box office star’s producers were unable to finish the intended “Praybeyt Benjamin 3” entry due to difficulties in shooting amid the pandemic.

But Upstream GMovies online provider Dondon Monteverde is confident of the pull of the star-studded entries on Tagalog movie patrons.

The eight other films selected are “Magikland,” “Coming Home,” “Tagpuan,” “Isa Pang Bahaghari,” “ Suarez: The Healing Priest,” “Pakboys Takusa,” “The Boy Foretold by the Stars” and “Fan Girl.” (MNS)

Saturday-Friday December 5 - 11, 2020 Visit www.Balita.com

Anne Curtis wows with fit figure just months after giving birth

“N

anganak ka ba?” was the playful question of many of Anne Curtis’ followers as the actress shared a photo showing her fit figure.

Curtis, 35, is seen wearing a midriff-baring outfit in the snap she posted on social media.

“Finally some [sun] and [waves],” she wrote in the caption, referring to the daytime shoot near the shore.

A flood of comments pertained to Curtis’ fit physique, with several saying she doesn’t appear to have just recently given birth.

Curtis and her husband, restaurateur and vlogger Erwan Heussaff, welcomed their first child, Dahlia, in March 2020.

The couple has been in Melbourne, Australia since December 2019.

Offered fi lm projects, new mom Anne Curtis sets earliest timeline for showbiz comeback.

anne curtiS Curtis, who remains visible in local showbiz through her dozens of brand endorsements and charity work, has said she intends to resume her acting career once Dahlia turns 1, at the earliest. (MNS)

Meet Philippine Air Force reservist Sgt. JM de Guzman MANILA (Mabuhay) — After months of train-

ing, JM de Guzman is now a Philippine Air Force reservist with the rank of sergeant.

The actor announced on Instagram that he has completed Basic Citizen Military Training as he shared a "sneak peak" of his training. He also shared clip of his graduation ceremony.

"Fina lly a f ter 8 months, i finished my Philippine Air Force, Special Basic Citizen Military Training CL-2020 (lectures, drills, and rigorous simulations and trainings) of Air Force Reserve Command conducted by 1st Air Reserve Center. Special thanks to Lt. Col

Hermie Calubiran Jr. PAF. I learned a lot about myself, character, and gained a lot of wisdom in this training. My respect higher to our soldiers," de Guzman wrote in the caption.

"As a reservist, I'm ready to serve my country, help those in need of help, or in the dark (as cliche as it may sound) because I was in need of help before and was also in the dark too. So I know how it feels like. Blessed and graced to stand up again and make things right and now it's time for me to give back. It will be easier for me to do this with the guidance and support of our astig regular soldiers. At siyempre ang sinumpaang tumulong protektahan ang Inang Bayan. Shout out to my wrestling coach, Air Force Staff Sgt. Jimmy Angana for the help," the actor added.

De Guzman first announced that he enlisted to be a reservist for the Philippine Air Force last March.

De Guzman went through military training along with his “Pamilya Ko” costar Kiko Estrada. (MNS)

Julia Montes hopes to put up own restaurant MANILA (Mabuhay) — Actress Julia Montes hopes to one day open her own restaurant, which is why she decided to go back to school, having signed up for online classes.

"Who said you can't wear uniforms? Studying while having the luxury of having my fave coffee. Thank you @southville_is for helping me step by step achieving my dream on putting up my own restaurant. Looking

forward every time I have classes," Montes wrote in the caption, tagging her school Southville International School and Colleges.

Montes resumer her schooling just last September.

“This is how I turn a crisis into an opportunity, doing things I've always wanted now that I have the luxury of time,” she wrote at the time.

Montes is a previous

graduate of a culinary school. She finished it in 2015.

Montes was supposed to star in a new Dreamscape series, “Burado,” with Nadine Lustre but the project was cancelled due to prevailing restrictions on shooting due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Last week, Montes also joined other celebrities in asking for donations for those affected by typhoon JuLia monteS Ulysses. (MNS)

Saturday-Friday | December 5 - 11, 2020

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‘They’re breadwinners,’ Enchong says of ABS-CBN stars working elsewhere after franchise

E

nchong Dee understands the decision of some of his fellow Kapamilya stars to accept job offers outside their home network, ABS-CBN, after its radio and free TV broadcast was forced shut early this year.

Dee was asked for his opinion on the temporary departure of some ABSCBN artists during a recent virtual conference of a product that he endorses.

“At the end of the day, a lot of my contemporaries, a lot of artistas are breadwinners,” Dee said.

“Hindi mo naman puwedeng alisin sa kanila yung pagkakataon na magtrabaho sa isang lugar.”

Amid the back-to-back crises to beset the network — the coronavirus pandemic, as well as the denial of its franchise renewal by the Duterte administration

— ABS-CBN was forced to retrench thousands of its employees, including entire units.

Retrenched workers, and some artists identified with ABS-CBN, subsequently found job opportunities outside the network, producing or appearing in programs in the same time slot as currently airing Kapamilya shows.

Dee, 32, has been with ABS-CBN since 2006. At the height of the controversy surrounding the network’s franchise, Dee was among the most visible and vocal celebrities expressing

support for ABS-CBN. Asked on the topic of “loyalty,” in light of his colleagues switching networks, Dee said: “Hindi ko kasi puwedeng gawing measurement iyong loyalty just because of what’s happening now.”

Dee brought up his financial security as a factor in his situation, of being able to stay with ABS-CBN despite challenges that continue to beset the network.

“Siguro sa akin na lang, I’m very fortunate and very blessed that I was able to invest my money as early as pagpasok ko pa lang

sa showbiz fifteen years ago. Kumbaga, hindi ako naging kampante,” he explained.

“So now, with all these things happening, hindi ako masyado worried about saan ko k uk unin y’ung pambayad ng kuryente, ng tubig, ng renta, ‘yung mga ganong bagay. Because I invested my money properly.

“S o, ngayon, h i nd i masyadong mahirap sa akin ‘yung desisyon na, ‘Okay, lilipat ba ako o hindi?’ Because, again, show business is only a certain part of who I am.” (MNS)

Xian Lim learning how to ride a unicycle MANILA (Mabuhay) — Actor Xian Lim is learning how to ride a unicycle, saying he wants to become the best unicyclist in the country.

Lim shared a clip of his first day trying to ride a unicycle on Instagram.

"Day 1 is not going to well for me," he admitted in the caption, as he thanked those who taught him how to ride the one-wheeled vehicle.

Apart from acting, Lim is known for having various talents, like ventriloquism, which he showcased on the morning program "Magandang Buhay" early thism year.

The actor said he started to learn ventriloquism after watching videos on the internet.

Lim said one should never stop learning new things.

"Sobrang iksi lang ng buhay natin and it's really good to make use of your time na parang lagi kang may natututunan," Lim said.

Lim recently starred in the ABSCBN series "Love Thy Woman" with

ENCHONG DEE

Kris Bernal to body-shaming victims: 'You are beautiful whatever your shape is'

XIAN LIM his real-life girlfriend Kim Chiu. The series aired its finale last September 11.

He is currently working on the movie “Parang Kayo, Pero Hindi,” with beauty queen-ac-

tress Kylie Verzosa and Marco Gumabao for director RC delos Reyes.

He also recently starred with actress Alex Gonzaga in the romantic-comedy film “Love The

Way U Lie,” which is available on Netflix.

The film was supposed to be part of the first Metro Manila Summer Film Festival this year. (MNS)

Ruffa Gutierrez asked about John Lloyd in a game of 'jojowain o trotropahin' MANILA (Mabuhay) — Rufjust last February, Gutierfa Gutierrez drew shrieks rez said she and Cruz are and laughter when she civil and they have each was asked on the spot if other’s contact numbers. she would rather befriend When asked if they or date actor John Lloyd text each other, Gutierrez Cruz. said: “Once a year, hello She was asked this lang or Merry Christmas. question while playing Pareho kami ng birthday the game of “jojowain o eh.” trotropahin” with Maris Gutierrez said she does Racal and Pooh. not see anything wrong Racal said she would with exchanging messagdate Cruz, while Pooh said es with an ex as long as he’d only like to be friends there is no malice. with the actor.

“As long as walang malAs for Gutierrez, her isya kasi mahirap naman answer was surprisingly kung may partner kang RUFFA GUTIERREZ JOHN LLOYD CRUZ not in one of the choices. seloso na lahat na lang ng “Jinowa ko na iyan eh,” ka-text, nagagalit. So as Cruz developed a closer relationship and she said leaving the others in laughing un- dated for a while. long as loyal ka and magha-happy birthday controllably.

While they obviously did not work out, lang naman or Merry Christmas, I think It would be recalled that after they Gutierrez said she and Cruz remain good it’s okay. Life is short. May pinagsamahan worked together in the 2008 ABS-CBN friends. naman kami. Hi, hello, how are you,” she series “I Love Betty La Fea,” Gutierrez and In fact, in an interview with Vice Ganda said. (MNS)

KRIS BERNAL MANILA (Mabuhay) — Kris Bernal, who has been vocal on experiencing body-shaming in the past, is encouraging all those who have suffered through the same thing.

In an Instagram post, the actress wrote, "At one time or another, you might have experienced body shaming the same way that I did. Waking up every day to people commenting on my body wasn’t easy at all."

"Thankfully, I am pretty headstrong and kept channeling all this negativity into my work. I would look myself in the mirror, smile, and say 'Always choose kindness. You are beautiful,'" she added.

Kris also said that people must always be reminded that no body is perfect.

"If you are also a victim of body shaming, I understand you and let’s make sure to not tolerate it. Let’s educate people on what is right," she said.

"People are skinny, curvy, tall, short, petite, large, and that’s just the reality of things!

You are beautiful whatever your shape is because you are God’s creation. When you know your worth and value from God, no one can already make you feel worthless, less valuable, or unloved," she added. (MNS)

16

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Saturday-Friday | December 5 - 11, 2020

Bohol eyes reopening by 2nd week of December

Philippine Tarsiers (Photo courtesy of Guide to the Philippines)

MANILA – Bohol is planning to welcome travelers by the second week of December 2020, an addition to the growing list of destinations reopening after months of closure, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said on Tuesday.

"Bohol will also be opened. They are already open for MICE, for big events or weddings but I think about second week of this December, (they will reopen) also for independent travelers, kahit small groups, kahit mag-isa ka (even for small groups, even if you are alone) you can already go," she said in a television interview.

Like many other tourist sites reopened under the new normal, Puyat said visitors would be required to submit a negative RT-PCR result upon entry to the island.

The province has been studying the island's gradual reopening as early as August 2020. In October 2020, it hosted the first physical MICE event in the Philippines since the pandemic started, with the launch of the 2020 hybrid Philippine Travel Exchange in Panglao.

MICE stands for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions, an emerging niche market in the tourism industry before the health crisis.

Bohol is home to the Chocolate Hills, the tarsier, and the stunning Panglao Island, popular for its white-sand beaches and coral gardens.

Aside from sun and beach, Bohol also offers breathtaking spots for history buffs and adrenaline junkies. It has Danao’s Adventure Park, where you can zip over a canyon, walk on air over a gorge or simply take a plunge over a ravine.

Panglao Island

The province also houses cultural treasures including old-houses, centuries-old stone churches, and watchtowers spread over the northwestern and southern coast of the island. (PNA)

Boom in nature-based tourism seen under new normal MANILA – As tourism gradually reopens, the demand for nature-based tourism is likely to increase as people look for safer alternatives in selecting destinations to visit, Tourism Undersecretary Benito Bengzon Jr. said Thursday.

This said, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is ramping up its efforts to develop new tourism products that would cater to the travelers' preferences amid the pandemic.

"We're working on product development kasi kailangan mag-develop tayo ng mga bagong produkto na angkop sa requirements ng mga travelers under the new normal kasi makikita natin na there is a greater preference for lower density, high-value, mas maraming mga outdoor types of tours (We're working on product development because we need new ones that are fit to the needs of travelers under the new normal. We see that there is a greater preference for lower density, high-value products, majority

wants outdoor types of tours)," he said during Thursday’s Laging Handa briefing.

Bengzon is optimistic the Philippines would be able to draw domestic tourists, even foreigners

once travel restrictions are eased.

He said such preference among travelers could work to the Philippines' advantage given its numerous nature-based assets.

Just recently, the Philippines was

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Palawan (Photo: City government of Puerto Princesa)

recognized as the world's leading dive destination, beating top dive spots such as Azores Islands, Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Cayman Islands, Fiji, Galapagos Islands, Great Barrier Reef, Australia, Maldives, and Mexico.

Aside from its promising sites underwater, the country also offers idyllic resort islands, including Palawan, Boracay, and Siargao Island, which was recently cited as one of the best 2021 holiday destinations by Condé Nast Traveller.

Bengzon said the DOT is also banking on local travel to drive the industry's recovery. This as he noted that tourism revenues from domestic travel alone reached PHP3.1 trillion in 2019, much higher than inbound which was pegged at PHP548.8 billion in the same year.

"Mga 85 percent of total tourism revenues are from domestic tourism. So we're also confident na mapapabilis ang recovery ng ating industriya kung matutulungan natin itong mga local enterprises natin (Around 85 percent of total tourism revenues in 2019 are from domestic tourism. So we're also confident that we'll be able to fast-track the industry's recovery if we're going to help our local enterprises)," he said.

Months after the first lockdown was imposed, several Philippine destinations started welcoming tourists, but with certain travel requirements such as the "test-before-travel" rule. (PNA)

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DOST: VCO diminished COVID-19 symptoms of suspect, probable cases in study MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Science and Technology has seen a positive result on a study where virgin coconut oil was used as a supplement for suspect and probable cases of COVID-19.

DOST Secretary Fortunato dela Peña said in a virtual conference that there were 58 quarantined participants from Sta. Rosa Community Hospital in Laguna who had been divided into two groups.

The group who had been given VCO mixed in standard meals for 28 days showed significant and faster improvement compared to those who were served food without VCO. During the course of the study, they monitored the C-Reactive Protein (CRP) among the patients at Day 1, 14, and 28. The CRP is an indicator of inflammation or infection.

Cough, colds, fever, body pain, headache, loss of taste were among the symptoms that were monitored among the participants.

"The results of the VCO study showed that five of the 29 patients in the VCO group manifested diminishing signs and symptoms as early as the second day while only one from the control group showed similar improvement," Dela Peña said.

"The VCO group showed no COVID-19-related symptoms anymore at Day 18 while symptoms are still persistent in some patients of the controlled group until Day 23," he added.

Those who had been administered with VCO have recovered from inflammation 14 days into the trial.

"VCO could be used as an adjunct supplement to prob-

able and suspect COVID-19 cases. It could prevent COVID-19 cases of becoming severe," Dela Pena said.

He, however, added that more studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of VCO as adjunct therapy for COVID-19, particularly to those who have co-morbidities.

Dr. Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa, Scientist II and Chief Science Research Specialist at DOST-Food and Nutrition Research Institute, said those in the VCO group were given 0.6 ml of virgin coconut oil per kilogram body weight for the first three days and 1.2 ml per kilogram body weight from the fourth day to the 28th.

This would be equivalent to two tablespoons of VCO per day. (MNS)

Philippines can replicate COVID-19 test reagents, says DOST MANILA (Mabuhay) — Replicating the reagents for testing for coronavirus is possible and in the works, the chief of the Department of Science and Technology said Wednesday as the chairman of Philippine Red Cross pressed for research on this.

PRC Chairman Sen. Richard Gordon said the DOST should study replicating the reagents as this could bring down the prices of testing for SARS-CoV 2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

"That can be done. The private sector is working on it," DOST Sec. Fortunato Dela Peña said when asked for a reaction to Gordon's statement.

"The Local COVID 19 kit is an example of developing local manufacturing capability enhancement funded supported by DOST which has significantly reduced the cost of the test," he said.

"The first step of scaling up diagnostic technology, which is local manufacturing capability has already been established. The next step is building capacities for manufacturing raw materials starting off

with local capability in producing our own source of molecular probes that is the main technology in all molecular based diagnostic tests by investment in oligosynthesizer machines."

At least 2 private Filipino companies are planning to set up a "Biotech Park" and will invite partners to join, he said.

"They have the whole framework mapped out," said Dela Peña.

Gordon said the PRC, which tests about 37 percent of the specimens in Metro Manila, had to source thousands of test kits from China.

"Why can’t DOST copy the reagents? We should be doing that.

Kopyahin natin 'yung reagents, baka naman magawa natin dito, baka mas mura. Baka 'yung mga test kits, 'yung mga swab baka magawa na natin ‘yan...I want them to research. Why can’t we do a simple thing as reagents?" he said.

Gordon also wants the DOST to look into testing the presence of SARS-CoV2, which causes COVID-19, in people using saliva and make its findings public.

Saliva testing is deemed cheaper and yields faster results compared to nasopharyngeal swabbing for the RT-PCR test. It may also reduce discomfort and minimize exposure between patients and health workers.

"We really have to be constantly active in terms of looking for solutions for our health problems in this country," he said.

Gordon said last month that the PRC is still waiting for government approval for its use of the saliva test, some 3 months since they submitted their initial assessment. (MNS)

US commits P875-M to support Manila's HIV AIDS programs MANILA (Mabuhay) — The United States government committed more than PHP875 million to support the Philippines' efforts to prevent and treat HIV-AIDS, the US Embassy in Manila announced Tuesday.

Washington launched the new President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)-funded program, which

will begin this month, in observance of World AIDS Day. Through the program, over PHP875 million (USD18.2 million) funding will be used to address the increasing number of people who are living with HIV in the Philippines, which has the fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the Asia-Pacific region, according to the Embassy.

For two years, the project will be implemented by the US Agency for International Development (USAID), US Centers for Disease Control, US Health Resources and Services Administration, and US Department of Defense, in cooperation with the Department of Health (DOH) and local community organizations.

“As a friend, partner, and ally of the Filipino people, we remain committed to assisting the Philippine government in addressing this disease so that the country can meet its development objectives in health and progress along its journey to self-reliance,” said USAID Acting Mission Director Patrick Wesner.

Most recent data from the DOH-Epidemiology Bureau estimates that more than 110,000 Filipinos are living with HIV in 2020; 37,000 have not been diagnosed, and among those previously diagnosed, at least 18,500 still need to be enrolled in life-saving antiretroviral

(ART) therapy.

The new PEPFAR program will support the Philippine government in reaching the ambitious UNAIDS 95-9595 targets for HIV epidemic control, meaning 95 percent of those infected with HIV know their status, 95 percent of those who know their status receive treatment, and 95 percent of those on treatment achieve viral suppression.

The initiative currently targets Metro Manila, Region 3 (Central Luzon), and Region 4A (Calabarzon), the highest HIV burden areas in the country, where an estimated 63 percent of PLHIV nationwide reside.

USA ID w i l l ex pa nd t he country's prevention strategy through increased access to HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis, strengthen HIV testing and case-finding in the post-Covid era, and connect HIV-diagnosed clients with better HIV treatment regimens and retention programs. (MNS)

Saturday-Friday | December 5 - 11, 2020

PH Covid-19 vaccine roadmap, timeline on track — Galvez MANIL A (Mabuhay) — The country's roadmap and timeline for the acquisition of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) vaccine is on track, National Policy Against Covid-19 chief implementer and vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said on Wednesday.

"We are still on track considering that there is a possibility that our best-case scenario will be shifted to the first quarter," Galvez said during the Laging Handa virtual briefing.

Galvez said the government expects to get an initial 50 million to 60 million doses by 2021. "[Our] best-case scenario that we have presented is more or less, [by] May, but for now, if we will succeed in negotiating with two to three vaccine [companies] from different countries, we might be able to get it during the first quarter," he added.

The government, he said, is also negotiating with China, Australia, and India to get better access to the Covid-19 vaccine.

"We will explore also directly to different vaccine companies at nakikita po natin mayroon tayong lima o anim na portfolio na (as we see we have five to six portfolio of) different companies from US, China, UK; and also we are exploring also with Russia – with Sputnik or Gamaleya," Galvez added.

Meanwhile, Galvez said the government will use the wholeof-nation approach for the vaccine distributions once it becomes available in the country.

"I believe the whole-of-nation approach is very effective especially that we will be having an unprecedented nationwide vaccination," he said, noting that the government is targeting to utilize the military resources during the vaccination program.

Galvez cited the Canadian government which utilized its military veterans to lead the vaccination program in Canada.

"And also in the British government, I have heard that they will use the full force of military in order to utilize their resources, their capabilities and their fresh legs in order to deliver and transport iyong mga (those) vaccine in a quick time and to cover more or less 30 – 50 million people," Galvez said.

He said the government is also planning to mobilize the resources of the public and the private sector so that "we can have a maximized vaccination of all our people in a quick time frame that we have."

On the other hand, the NTF chief implementer said the country has an ongoing negotiation with the Pfizer pharmaceutical company.

"Nakapirma na po ako ng CDA [Confidential Disclosure Agreement], at doon po sa ((I already signed a CDA and with regards to) Moderna, we will be exploring our engagement, and J&J, nakadalawang presentations na po sa amin ang Johnson & Johnson (have already provided two presentations)," Galvez said.

He said the Philippine government is also exploring the Novavax through the Indian Serum Institute. (MNS)

BALITA 19 Health & Family Health Family Sinovac, Sputnik V to conduct clinical trials in Philippines by December or January 2021 — Galvez

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MANILA (Mabuhay) — China's Sinovac and Russia's Sputnik V of Gamaleya Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology will conduct clinical trials in the Philippines by this month or in January 2021, vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said Wednesday.

"The Sinovac and also the Gamaleya will undergo clinical trials here this coming either December or first week of January," Galvez said at Kapihan sa Manila Bay's virtual forum.

In October, the Vaccine Expert Panel (VEP), under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), has cleared China's anti-COVID-19 vaccine Sinovac for clinical trials in the Philippines.

Gamaleya, meanwhile, recently said that Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine is 95% effective according to a second interim analysis of clinical trial data.

During the forum, Galvez said he was told that Sinovac is among the safest vaccines for COVID-19, given that there has been no "life-threatening" incident reported in connection to using it.

"The vaccine experts have briefed me about the [safety] and efficacy of the vaccine. They said one of the safest vaccines is basically from China because it came from the classical vaccine platform," Galvez said.

"There is no reported adverse and life-threatening incident with this kind

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of vaccine," he added.

For his part, presidential adviser for entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion said Sinovac has been a reliable vaccine, noting that it is already being used in China.

"Definitely in the Sinovac, the Filipino and Chinese Chamber is supporting Secretary Galvez. We have heard and seen that Sinovac is a reliable vaccine and actually they have been using it already in China..." Concepcion said in the same briefing.

"I believe that the Chinese vaccine is similar to AstraZeneca in the case that it is using all technology and the second thing is it's also the same level of temperature, two to eight degrees as AstraZeneca..." he added.

Galvez said based on their initial organization with the Chinese pharmacy, if ever the Philippines will close the d deal this December, it would take them 60 to 90 days to prepare and ship the vaccine.

"Meaning, we can foresee that there is the greater, better scenario that we can get the vaccine in the first quarter, maybe March or late February," he said.

Galvez said the government is negotiating to get 20 million to 50 million Sinovac vaccines.

He is hoping that by 2022, the Philippines will have enough GALVEZ supply of vaccines. (MNS)

MINORS IN LOWRISK VIRUS AREAS MAY BE ALLOWED OUTSIDE HOMES — EXPERTS MANILA (Mabuhay) — Minors in areas with low-risk of virus transmission may be allowed to go outside their homes, doctors and scientists said Wednesday.

Children below 8 years old who cannot wear masks properly should not be allowed outside, according to Dr. Edsel Salvana, a member of health department's technical advisory group.

"Alam naman natin ang mga bata hindi naman talaga sila nakakagamit ng masks nang maayos at mild ang symptoms nila bagamat pwede siyang mapasa kung may matatanda sa bahay at merong chronic illnesses," he said.

"Pwede po talaga magsurge dahil sa mga superspreader na mga bata."

He added that the level of community spread should be considered.

"In places like Batanes, Ilocos, mas maganda po siguro kung (it's better if they do) open air activities rather than a mall," he said.

Allowing children to go outside may contribute to overcrowding, according to Guido David, a member of OCTA Research Group.

"We know from science na 'yung (that) overcrowding is one of the triggers for community transmission. Gusto nating iwasan 'yan (We want to avoid that)," he said.

"Nasa implementation 'yan. Kunyari sa low-risk areas, wala namang masyadong problema dun. Sa mga epicenters ngayon, like NCR and Davao di natin alam paano maiimplement 'yun nang maayos."

Children are more likely to contract the virus than transmit it, according to Dr. Anna Ong Lim, member of the health department's technical advisory group and former president of the Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines.

They will however contribute to crowds when allowed to go outside, Lim added.

"Kung lumalabas ka bilang nagtatrabaho tinatanggap natin as risk kasi s'yempre kabuhayan natin 'yan," she said.

"Pero kung lalabas tayo para mamasyal tapos i-expose natin 'yung sarili natin at ating mga anak sa risk na mahawa, iuwi natin to sa bahay natin na meron tayong elderly na kasama. You would have to think very hard kung sulit ba ang exposure na 'yun."

When asked about quarantine fatigue among children, Lim said they are "very resilient."

"As long as their home environment is nurturing. Baka nga mas maganda pa ang adaptation nila kesa sa atin," she said. (MNS)

FDA approval on drug, vaccine possible in 40 days or less with EUA — official MANILA (Mabuhay) — Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of a drug or vaccine can be expected in 40 days or less now that it is allowed to issue emergency use authorization (EUA), Dr. Jaime Montoya of the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) said Thursday.

Without EUA, Montoya said the process usually takes about six months.

"Yung normal na proseso, yung walang EUA, umaabot ng anim na buwan bago a pr u b a h a n ," Mont o y a , PCHRD's executive director, told Super Radyo dzBB. "Kung may EUA, according to FDA, puwedeng 40 days or less pa, depende kung gaano kakumpleto ang mga dokumentong isa-submit [ng developer]."

He added that the process will also be faster for drugs or vaccines that have been given EUA in other countries.

Approval, however, is not

automat ic, according to Montoya, stressing that the FDA can reject drugs or vaccines that pose more risks than benefits.

"Kung mas marami ang risks kaysa benefits, hindi maaaprubahan 'yan," the official said.

On Wed nesday, Malacañang announced that President Rodrigo Duterte, through Executive Order 121, has allowed the FDA to issue an EUA for COVID-19 drugs and vaccines.

The issuance of an EO on EUA was proposed by Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. Montoya said EUA can only be issued during a period of public health emergency.

"Magagawa lang 'yan kapag may public heath emergency tulad ngayon," he said, referring to the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Montoya said the FDA can issue an EUA on a potential

MONTOYA drug or vaccine even when clinical trials are not yet finished.

"Kahit di pa tapos ang trial, puwede na i-submit ng developer ang datos para maisyuhan sila ng EUA," he said.

PCHRD is an attached agency of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

MNS)

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