Weekend Balita-June 27, 2020

loS aNgElES EDITIoN

DOH exec: UV light as disinfectant best in healthcare settings only PAGE 14

VOL. XXIX NO. 26

June 27 - July 3, 2020

TOP STORIES

Global News PH retains highest classification in US anti-TIP standards 8  DOT eyes allowing entry of tourists from countries with low to zero COVID-19 cases 8  Duterte honors heroism of Filipino troops in Korean War 10  PH works with IOM to aid Pinoys in Egypt, Sudan 10  No proof ex-Wirecard exec left PH despite BI records — DOJ 12  Ex-Senator Ramon Revilla Sr. dies at 93 12  Palace tells UN special rapporteurs to respect Philippine legal system 12  Covid-19 cases rise after relaxation of quarantine — DOH 13  PRRD urges Asean to find ‘innovative ways’ to end sea disputes 13 

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

garCeTTI CaLLS for CoNCLUSIVe reLIef for DaCa reCIPIeNTS

By ABNER GALINO

LOS aNGELES Mayor Eric Garcetti said the recipients of the controversial immigration program, the Deferred action for Childhood arrivals or DaCa, deserve a definite resolution to their legal woes rather than a temporary legal respite to their collective quest to legally stay in the US.

Sections BUSINESS. $3.1B of ‘hot money’ exited PHL in January-May — BSP 15  ENtErtaINMENt. Sharon Cuneta laments: ‘Where is my countrymen’s moral compass? 18  HEaLtH & FaMILY. DOH warns public vs ‘tuob’ 14  FEatUrE. Remembering Digos City’s 1989 gruesome massacre 16 

California unveils COVID-19 Assessment Tool

CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR GAVIN NEWSOM

CALIFORNIA Governor Gavin Newsom has released tools, technology and data that will allow scientists, researchers, technologists and all Californians to better understand the impact of COVID-19.

This includes the California COVID Assessment Tool or CalCAT, a “model of models” that contains assessments of the spread of COVID-19, short-term forecasts of disease trends, and scenarios of the course of the disease from modeling groups across the country.

The state is also making the source code of CalCAT available to the public.

Additionally, the Governor has directed that the state’s COVID-19 data be open and machine-readable by default, except to preserve privacy; that data be provided via dashboard, on California’s open data portal; and that the data be available by direct connection to a database.

The goal is to refine California’s and our counties’ insights and knowledge, and to spur collaboration with other states and researchers.

CALIFORNIA

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FILE photo of doctors and nurses participating in a pro-DACA demonstration at MacArthur Park in downtown Los Angeles three years ago. Photo by abner Galino

Garcetti pointed out that the ongoing pandemic even highlighted the importance of DACA recipients to the strength and welfare of the community.

The Los Angeles mayor noted that many of those at the frontline of the fight against the deadly coronavirus are DACA recipients.

Many DACA recipients are emGARCETTI

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Robredo: Renaming DTI foresees better commerce NAIA amid COVID-19 is with opening of new NLEX ill-timed, revises history Harbor Link Segment 10 MANILA (Mabuhay) — Re- Paliparan ng Pilipinas. naming the Ninoy Aqui- The measure was filed on no International Airport June 25.

(NAIA), moreso amid the “Nasa gitna tayo ng pandemic, is ill-timed, pandemya, ito pa talaga Vice Presang maiisip. id e nt L e n i Number one, Robredo said it is ill-timed,” Friday.

Robredo said.

Robredo “When I was referfirst read it… r ing to the ngayon pa measure talaga? Now proposed by that we need House Deputy all hands Speaker Paoon deck at VP LENI ROBREDO lo Duter te, magtuloMarinduque Represent- ng-tulong para labanan ative Lord Allan Velasco, ang pandemya?” Robredo and ACT-CIS Represent- added. ative Eric Yap renaming The Philippines has reNAIA as Pandaigdigang corded 34,073 COVID-19 ROBREDO:

DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon M. Lopez congratulated the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in officially opening to motorists the C3-R10 section of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) Harbor Link Segment 10 in Navotas City on 15 June 2020, which would ensure better movement of commercial vehicles and goods in the area.

The 2.6 kilometer NLEX Harbor

Link section is an elevated expressway that will serve as a direct route from NLEX to the Port of Manila and vice versa to make the delivery of goods faster and more efficient.

“We very much welcome the opening of this section of the NLEX Harbor Link, as this will definitely boost productivity and spur trade and commerce. It would cut travel time from Quezon City to the Port of Manila from two hours to 10 to 15 minutes.

DTI

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Sunrise Movement LA endorses State Assembly Fil-Am candidate LOS ANGELES, CA – Sunrise Movement Los Angeles just announced their endorsement of Godfrey Santos Plata to represent District 53 in the California State Assembly.

Plata is part of a rising cohort of progressive challengers who have also

recently secured Sunrise Movement endorsements, including Nithya Raman (CD4), Fatima Iqbal-Zubair (AD64), Aura Vasquez (CD10), and Loraine Lundquist (CD12). Running in AD53, which includes Huntington Park, Boyle Heights, Little Tokyo, KoSUNRISE

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LOS aNGELES Mayor Eric Garcetti announcing the continuing coronavirus testing efforts of the city on Monday.

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ABNER GALINO, Fil-Am News Editor

Community Visit www.Balita.com

Saturday-Friday | June 27 - July 3, 2020

“VCO FOR VCU FRONTLINERS”: EMBASSY MARKS NATIONAL COCONUT DAY

BY SHARING PH VIRGIN COCONUT OIL WITH VIRGINIA FRONTLINERS WASHINGTON, D.C. – To join the celebration of National Coconut Day in the United States, the Philippine Embassy, through the Office of the Agriculture Attaché, is raising awareness particularly of the uses of virgin coconut oil, including where it can readily be available such as Trader Joe's, a neighbourhood grocery store in the United States.

Dr. Josyline C. Javelosa, the Philippine Agriculture Attaché to the United States and the Americas said that this occasion is also a good opportunity to show appreciation for the service of frontliners amid this COVID-19 pandemic.

VCU Health, located in Richmond, the State of Virginia's capital, warmly welcomed the Embassy’s modest gesture to provide Trader Joe's virgin coconut oil sourced from the Philippines to its personnel. Personnel of VCU hospital may use the VCO as skin moisturizer to help protect their skin from viruses and bacteria or add this to their coffee for added energy, among other uses. VCO is also suitable for cooking and heats well to high temperatures.

Dr. Javelosa also dropped off Philippine VCO gifts for frontline employees at the USPS Fairfax branch and firefighters of the Burke Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department.

National Coconut Day is celebrated on June 26 in the United States.

The Coconut Coalition of the Americas founded National Coconut Day to celebrate the mighty coconut and increase awareness of its benefits.

For thousands of years, coconut has been an essential part of the diet of people living in the tropics.

Coconut meat contains about 20% coconut oil. In the Philippines, co-

conut oil is even being tested for its efficacy to help treat or prevent COVID-19, given the considerable scientific evidence for the antiviral activity of coconut oil, lauric acid (of which coconut oil has a high proportion of) and its derivatives; its general safety; and the absence of a cure for COVID-19.

Dr. Fabian Dayrit and Dr. Mary Newport explain in a paper published at the Ateneo de Manila University's website entitled "The

and is also the active ingredient in many dermatological preparations, Dr. Dayrit says. Together, monolaurin and lauric acid have the physicochemical property of being able to destroy the membrane of lipid-coated viruses. The antiviral activities of lauric acid and monolaurin were first noted in a 1979 study and later in 1981. Because the virus that

VCU Health Frontliners were given Virgin Coconut Oil for National Coconut Day

Dr. Javelosa also shared the Philippine VCO with firefighters in Burke of Fairfax County, Virginia Potential of Coconut Oil and its Derivatives as Effective and Safe Antiviral Agents Against the novel corona virus (nCov-2019)”, that when coconut oil is ingested into the body, the body’s lipase enzymes release metabolites, which are the active compounds—mainly monolaurin and lauric acid.

Monolaurin is used by the food industry as an emulsifier and natural preservative against bacteria

causes COVID-19 (SARSCoV-2) is a lipid-coated virus, coconut oil seems promising, and thus the paper urges that clinical Dr. Josyline C. Javelosa, Philippine agriculture attaché to the United States studies be conducted among poses with VCU health frontliners displaying their Philippine VCO gifts patients who have been inDr. Dayrit is the president of port is an American medical doctor fected with nCoV-2019. Dr. Dayrit and Dr. Newport also rec- Integrated Chemists of the Phil- who became an integral researcher ommend that VCO be considered ippines and chemistry professor and advocate for using coconut oil, as a general prophylactic against emeritus at Ateneo de Manila Uni- MCT oil, and exogenous ketones to versity in the Philippines. Dr. New- treat Alzheimer’s disease. viral and microbial infection.

garCeTTI... from Page 1 ployed as nurses, pharmacists, medical technicians and other related professions. A lot of these DACA recipients are also employed in the service and food industries.

Garcetti also reminded listeners that the DACA recipients are mostly parents too to some 10,000 American citizens.

The Los Angeles mayor made the pitch during a national roundtable discussion with members of the US Congress and the California State Legislature.

The online roundtable discussion was facilitated by the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) on Thursday.

Other speakers and guests include Congressman Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (D-CA), Congresswoman Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-CA), State Senator Maria Elena Durazo (SD-24), Assemblywoman Wendy Carrillo (AD-51), Assemblyman Miguel Santiago (AD-53), Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis (First District), Andra Hoffman, president, LACCD Board of Trustees; Steve Veres, first vice president, LACCD Board of Trustees; Gabriel Buelna, LACCD Board of Trustees chair; DACA & Immigration Task Force Francisco C. Rodriguez, LACCD Chancellor Elias Geronimo, LACCD Board Student Trustee Mr. Thomas Saenz, MALDEF President & General Counsel; and Mr. Arturo Vargas, NALEO Chief Executive Officer.

DACA refers to an immigration relief instituted by former President Barack Obama program that allowed young immigrants --- who have been in the U.S. since they were children and lack legal status --to work and study without the threat of deportation.

The Trump administration has been working hard to scrap the program and it subsequently resulted in the case being elevated to the US Supreme Court.

With Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. leading the majority, the court ruled 5-4 against the Trump administration.

The US Supreme Court called the decision to cancel the DACA program arbitrary and unjustified.

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2020 Census Could Help Los Angeles County Overcome the Pandemic and Address Inequity

By Julian Do LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles County is once more on track to undercount its residents in the census, losing federal funding that could help provide essential services to its 10 million residents. The timing couldn’t be worse: Like the rest of the United States, the county is reeling from the pandemic, economic upheaval and social inequities — a triple threat that could take years to resolve.

As of June 10, L.A. county’s census response rate was 57.4%, according to Jason Tajima, principal analyst of the county CEO Office’s 2020 Census Unit.

That’s below the state’s 62.1% rate and the country’s 61.4% rate.

A low response rate in the last census had measurable effects, said county Supervisor Kathryn Barger: “The 2010 census had drastically undercounted the L.A. County population. As a result, the county lost millions of dollars that could support many needy programs that directly impact the people’s well-being, from building schools to hospitals and homes, which in turn create thousands of jobs.”

Considered the hardest-to-count county in the nation because of its large, diverse population, L.A. County cannot

JUSTICE IN THE TIME OF COVID: HOW MUCH WHITE SUPREMACY WILL AMERICA CONDONE?

By SUNITA SOHRABJI SAN FRANCISCO — Americans are facing a critical inflection point as the nation grapples with the twin pandemics of COVID and racial injustice.

COVID has killed more than 445,000 people worldwide, more than 118,000 of them in the United States. In the midst of that pandemic, white Americans — angered by the brutal killing of Minnesota resident George Floyd by former police officer Derek Chauvin — are waking up to the challenges Black Americans face daily.

Experts at a June 19 panel organized

by Ethnic Media Services detailed those challenges: police brutality and over-zealous policing, economic injustice, disparities in access to health care, higher levels of incarceration resulting in greater rates of recidivism, and a pervasive culture of casual racism.

COVID has revealed the failures of a public health system based on the needs of white people, said Dr. Tung Nguyen, a professor of internal medicine at the University of California, San Francisco. The United States has the most expensive health care system in the world, but its outcomes are poor because it is focused on the wrong things, he said.

“The factors that contribute the most are low life expectancy or income quality, low levels of education and exposure to violence along with other key determinants, like jobs, housing and food insecurity and climate change. These are the proper topics for public health and for health care to work on in the future,” said Nguyen, who also directs the Asian American Research Center on Health.

“The state of race relations today in the United States is in a place I’ve never seen it,” said Constance ‘Connie’ Rice, long-time civil rights activist and lawyer and co-founder and co-director of the Advancement Project in Los Angeles.

“This isn’t about people of color.

This is the fourth major national discussion that white Americans have been having about how much racism they’re currently comfortable tolerating, how much white supremacy white Americans are going to condone and continue,” Rice said.

“For the first time, the majority of white people in America are saying, ‘Okay, we have to make a choice.

We didn’t know we were part of the

choice. We didn’t know we were in this conversation.’ It’s like watching whales discover they live in water, but now they’re starting to get consciousness. We’ll see where it goes.”

Rice said the young marchers around the globe have had an enormous effect on that consciousness.

“This is tectonic plate-level change, it’s seismic. And we don’t know what the politics are gonna ring on it,” she added. “We will see in November, whether they [white Americans] are going to go the white nationalist way or with the future, which is a multiracial democracy.”

The roots of American policing, she said, are ensconced in “slave patrols” meant to keep people “in place,” a mindset that is a “warrior mentality.

It’s not about a bad apple. It’s about a toxic orchard and the entire culture.”

Manuel Pastor, professor of Sociology and American Studies and Ethnicity at the University of Southern California, said overzealous policing of African Americans was the tip of the iceberg in a culture that has consistently marginalized ethnic communities.

“One reason I think this moment has broken things up so significantly,” he said, “is because it comes on the heels of two big phenomena: three and a half years of Donald Trump, three and a half years of what looks like the rise of fascism in America, and simplistic economic strategy. And those years have been so brutal for people of color in the United States.”

Pastor, director of the Program for Environmental and Regional Equity at USC and USC’s Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration, noted the United States’ wide economic gap.

African Americans earn an average $17,000 per year, the least amount of any ethnic group, while white Americans earn an average $171,000, according to recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

“What that means is that when a crisis breaks, you’ve got no choice [but] to go back to work because you’ve got no wealth cushion on which to fall,” Pastor said, referring to the large number of African Americans forced to work outside their homes during the pandemic, even as much of the nation was sheltering in place. He also cited African Americans’ rate of incarceration and the difficulty of obtaining CONtNUED ON PaGE 16

risk again being undercounted and losing resources over the next 10 years, Barger added.

Based on the state’s current federal funding, Tajima estimated that the federal government provides between $1,700 and $2,000 for each person counted in the census.

Every dollar lost will make it harder for L.A. County to continue providing residents with critical services and to keep combating the pandemic. Its next fiscal year budget already has a projected $1 billion shortfall, according to County CEO Sachi Hamai.

Besides funding services, the census also guides political representation. As the country grapples with structural and systemic inequities, county Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas believes people are looking for ways to get involved to fight for justice, and the 2020 census offers a timely, practical call to action.

“Communities of color such as African American, Latinos, Asian and Pacific Islanders have traditionally been undercounted in the census,” Ridley-Thomas said. “Responding to the census helps the drawing of political districts for state and federal legislative representation, which are crucial for correcting the structural and systemic inequities in our society today.”

The 43% of L.A. County residents who have not yet responded to the census represents 1.4 million to 1.7 million households, or about four million to six million people. To reach them, the county and the Advancement Project California, a national civil rights organization, have identified the demographic groups and areas needing more targeted efforts.

Latinx and African American pop-

ulation’s response rates are 52.1% and 55.1%, respectively.

Asian populations’ average response rate is 66.2%, higher than the state’s 62.1%. But while the Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino and Japanese communities’ rates range from 64% to nearly 70%, the Thai, Cambodian, and Korean communities’ rates are 47.4% to 56.9%.

Geographically, low response-rate areas that need extra outreach to increase the count include South L.A., South Bay, Metro L.A., Southeast L.A. and Long Beach.

Many factors contribute to the low response rates in those areas, Tajima said. Among households in the lowest-response census tracts, two-fifths have no broadband Internet, more than half live in multiunit buildings and nearly threefourths are renters. More crowded households, fewer high school graduates and a larger percentage of limited English speakers also contribute to low response.

It’s precisely such difficult circumstances that make it essential for people living in these underserved communities to participate in the census, said Ridley-Thomas, so they can benefit from federal funding that helps address social inequities.

The pandemic delayed the start of the door-to-door outreach campaign that is essential for raising census response rates. Avianna Uribe, manager of the county CEO Office’s 2020 Census Unit, said that while the state has begun opening up, it is the U.S. Census Bureau that will decide when it’s safe to begin doorto-door outreach.

For now, residents can complete census forms online, by telephone and by mail.

Community Newsom proclaims budget County Sheriff expects body-worn emergency, Ensures fund cameras roll-out by mid-July for medical equipment

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SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom has issued a proclamation of a budget emergency to make additional resources available to fund the state’s ongoing emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the availability of funding for personal protective equipment, medical equipment and other expenditures as necessary to support a potential hospital surge and provide necessary services to vulnerable populations.

The proclamation clears the way for the Legislature to pass legislation allowing the state to draw from the state’s rainy day fund to help California continue to meet the COVID-19 crisis, which has triggered a global economic crisis and a $54.3 billion state budget deficit.

Newsom said that the pandemic “has triggered a global economic crisis, a recession, record job losses, severe impacts on small businesses and a $54.3 billion state budget deficit.”

But Newsom has noted that “over the past several years, certain deposits have been made into the state’s rainy day fund, the Budget Stabilization Account, to provide reserves to help the state meet fiscal challenges when a Governor declares a budget emergency.”

In the proclamation, Newsom said that the Budget Stabilization Account has $16.1 billion in reserves and that “in order to address the COVID-19 pandemic, the state must use a portion of the reserves in the Budget Stabilization Account in the 2020-21 fiscal year to fund expenditures related to COVID-19 and provide other needed services.”

Revised L.A. County budget includes program cuts and potential layoffs

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n the wake of the unprecedented economic crisis sparked by COVID-19, Los Angeles County’s 202021 Final Changes budget includes a wide range of curtailments affecting virtually every County department.

The $34.9 billion budget, which will be presented to the Board of Supervisors for budget deliberations on Monday, June 29, represents some of the most challenging fiscal decisions in recent County history.

The cuts are needed to address a projected $935.3 million budget gap, mostly due to sharp revenue declines at the same time the County also is investing in major response and reopening activities to support its communities during the pandemic.

“I am very disappointed to report that significant cuts in County programs and personnel will be needed as a result of the serious economic downturn caused by this ongoing public health emergency,” said Chief Executive Officer Sachi A. Hamai.

“This is not the outcome any of us wants to see, especially as our County staff continues to serve with great commitment during this crisis. I want to wholeheartedly thank our more than 100,000 employees for their incredible dedication to public service at this difficult time.”

She expressed hope that the cuts

can be mitigated in the Supplemental Budget, which will be submitted to the Board in September.

“This budget marks a point in time, not the finish line,” Hamai said.

“I remain hopeful that we will be able to obtain additional funding from Washington and Sacramento, and we also continue to work with labor on cost-saving measures that could help preserve jobs.”

The cuts in the proposed budget include $453.5 million in departmental curtailments and $59.3 million in management cost reductions. To bridge the gap, the budget will also draw on $351.6 million in one-time funding from departmental trust accounts.

An estimated $70.9 million drop in Measure H sales tax revenues will be offset with state Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Program funding of $22.6 million, with other sources of funding expected to be identified in the Supplemental Budget.

Overall, the proposed departmental curtailments result in the elimination of 3,251 positions—2,596 vacant and 655 potential layoffs. No layoffs would take place prior to October 1.

The proposed curtailments represent an across-the-board cut of 8% for departments funded with what is known as Net County Cost, or NCC—the portion of the budget that is funded with sales tax and other locally generated revenues.

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he rollout of the body-worn camera program that will ensure greater accountability of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is on target for mid-to-late July, following months of collaborative efforts between the County and the Sheriff’s Department.

The Sheriff’s Department will be able to equip 5,200 deputies and security officers with devices over the next two years utilizing the nearly $35 million that the Board of Supervisors set aside last year specifically dedicated for this program.

The Los Angeles County Internal Services Department has been working with representatives from the Sheriff’s Department on the solicitation and negotiations with proposed vendors since October 2019.

During that time, both departments worked closely to review various proposals and onboard the selected vendor to supply the Department with the long-awaited cameras and technology to support this program.

Thus far, the Sheriff’s Department has received approximately $8 million dollars to begin the infrastructure work needed at the patrol stations designated for the initial rollout.

The Board of Supervisors has prioritized greater transparency and accountability from the Sheriff’s Department for several years, developing key policy initiatives and identifying appropriate funding and staffing to allow for the swift implementation and operation of the body-worn camera program. The Board’s history of steadfast support in making this program a reality included the following: • Approved a motion authored by Su-

pervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas to implement the recommendations on the need to curb excessive uses of force (which included the use of body-worn cameras) as part of the Citizens’ Commission on Jail Violence in 2012. The Board also approved subsequent motions.

• Enlisted the help of the Office of Inspector General (OIG) in September, 2015 for a detailed analysis of the proposed body-worn camera policy prompting the County to begin a lengthy process of assessing the cost of such a program.

• Directed the Sheriff to implement the body-worn camera program and appointed the OIG to monitor implementation in September, 2019.

• Engaged the OIG and Civilian Oversight Commission (COC) to give specific feedback to update and strengthen policies that would enhance the use and efficacy of body-worn Cameras, such as the review and release of camera footage.

The Civilian Oversight Commission and the Inspector General have also given specific feedback and recommendations to the Sheriff’s on how to improve the proposed policies on bodyworn cameras, around topics such as the reviewing and releasing of camera footage, aimed at bolstering community trust in this new technology. These issues remain unaddressed.

Once the implementation takes effect next month, the Sheriff’s Department will have the responsibility to roll out body-worn cameras with monitoring and input from both the OIG and COC. The Board is grateful that after many years of persistent effort, body worn cameras will be implemented by the LA Sheriff’s Department.

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CONTNUED ON PAGE 16 Part of the 2.6 kilometer North Luzon Expressway Harbor Link that has opened to motorists last June 15 Likewise, it would also provide ease of travel for Manila port freight carriers and other commercial vehicles,” Secretary Lopez said.

“We laud the DPWH and its private sector partners in working overtime to deliver this vital piece of infrastructure even during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. This will be critical in speeding up our country's post-pandemic economic recovery,” he added.

The project is the first infrastructure project to open during the General Community Quarantine period. By bringing NLEX closer to the country’s central shipping gateway, the Port of Manila, the government foresees speedier transport of goods, as well as increased economic productivity in Metro Manila and North and Central Luzon regions. As no truck bans are imposed along NLEX, cargo trucks would also gain 24/7 road network access.

“Effective logistics development is the key in facilitating trade and connectivity.

It lowers cost and clearance time of imports and exports, while also ensuring the smooth flow of commodities. Having stable and reliable logistics would encourage market expansion and improve investors’ confidence in our country's ability to transport goods and services,” Secretary Lopez explained.

“With this new project that improves overall accessibility and reduces transportation costs including travel time, the impact on economic productivity is immense. With reliable logistics, costs to obtain input materials and services are reduced, businesses’ labor pool is increased, and the potential markets are expanded,” he added.

In the first quarter of 2020 alone, the Philippine Ports Authority reported 14,920,227 metric tons of foreign cargo throughput and 782,482 twenty-foot equivalent units of foreign container traffic, both imports and exports, between the Port of Manila to North Luzon.

Community "Time to dispel the MYTH on ASPARAGUS as a Cancer cure/AVENI FOUNDATION scientifically develops gene-targeted therapies for CANCER" Saturday-Friday | June 27 - July 3, 2020

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ne of my friends just recently shared his story with this writer regarding the ongoing MYTH of ASPARAGUS as a Cancer cure. Some people, out of desperation, believe that ASPARAGUS can help curb the progression of Cancer even without scientific evidence. A word of caution though, if there were remarkable evidence, it would have been publicized at the New England Journal of Medicine or other reputable medical publications for such breakthrough news. It is rather unlikely that such an information is vital, but as we all are aware of, CANCER is NOT just one disease. because it comes in a variety of different types of CANCER. Hodgkin's disease, for example is not treated the same way

as Skin Cancer or Lung Cancer.

Some also claim that if they can puree cooked ASPARAGUS in a blender and give it to the patients twice a day, for two to four weeks, many Cancer patients will see a drastic change. Others also claimed that their Bladder Cancer disappeared, or some inoperable Lung Cancer is minimized due to the ASPARAGUS therapy.

Articles were apparently publicized by an unnamed Biochemist who wrote an article in an unreputable publication reported by a certain Richard Vensal, a dentist who is allegedly nowhere to be found.

The unsubstantiated testimonials of people who can't be tracked down is not scientific in nature, even when they claim that ASPAR AGUS contains Gluthathione, which is consid-

Carson City Council adopts $86.9M budget

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ayor Albert Robles and the Carson City Council have adopted a balanced $86.9 million budget for the upcoming fiscal year 2020-21 that maintains the City’s reserves at $35 million or 40% of the operating budget.

This is the fifth consecutive year that the City of Carson has approved its budget on-time, the first time since November 2015. This sound fiscal management has been recognized by the bond rating agencies with an improved bond rating from our prior rating of A- on January 2016 and with the re-certification of the higher rate during the most recent bond rating evaluation last month.

Just as important, the new City Budget continues investing in the Capital Improvement Program, maintenance and operations, and law enforcement at the current levels or higher without any staff layoffs.

Also, significant is that, unlike most other local governments that are struggling to pay off their unfunded pension obligations, the City of Carson is one of the few cities to be able to claim it has paid this debt to CalPERS – and at a savings of $47.3 million.

The Budget was balanced using prudent fiscal measures to reduce costs without impacting the level of service to our residents and the community, while also benefiting from the fruits of sound budget management decisions implemented before this unprecedented global pandemic induced a depression-like economy.

As a result of these judicious decisions, the City of Carson is in an enviable position compared to many municipalities who find themselves in worse fiscal health and with fewer tools to close their deficits, and are forced to cut payroll and/or community services.

In the midst of this global pandemic, civil unrest and an unstable economy, Mayor Albert Robles and the Carson City Council have used wise fiscal planning and strong Council involvement to assure that the City of Carson remains stable and financially healthy during these unprecedented times.

Mayor Albert Robles is confident

that Carson is headed in the right direction.

“The belt has been tightened and as we monitor revenues and expenditure going forward, further reductions in spending will be made as needed.

My colleagues and I have approved a fiscally conservative budget but our work is not done. We will also seek to identify other potential revenue sources for the City.” said Mayor Robles.

In addition, the City has a year-todate $32 million Capital Improvement Program (CIP), of which 70% or $22 million has been secured with no impact to the City’s General Fund.

“We will be aggressively looking for additional Federal and State funding to further improve our City’s infrastructure,” added Mayor Robles.

Carson is one of a very few cities in California to have paid off its “unfunded pension liability.” Using Pension Obligation Bonds as a budget management tool, the City reduced costs it would have otherwise be incurring over the next 20 years by $47.3 million.

And, for the budget that was just approved, Carson was able to reduce costs by about $6 million to counter a large portion of the anticipated decrease in revenues that resulted from the impact of the pandemic on the economy.

Another factor that was a positive contribution to our budget was Standard & Poor's Ratings Services maintaining its AA- on the Carson Public Financing Authority’s Pension Obligation Bonds.

This excellent rating reflects their view of the City’s strong financial performance even in the current state of the economy. Standard and Poor’s is the largest of the Big Three credit-rating agencies, which also includes Moody’s Investment Service and Fitch Ratings.

“Passing a sound balanced budget consistently on time sends a very positive message to investors and new businesses that Carson is fiscally responsible and, as such, our future is indeed unlimited and Carson is the right place to invest and do business,” added Robles, “consistent with Carson's founding motto Future Unlimited.”

ered one of the body's most potent anticarcinogens and antioxidants, though the National Cancer Institute perceived this claim to be somehow deceitful, because Gluthathione is "ineffective when taken orally. because the molecule is made up of three amino acids joined together, called ’TRIPEPTIDE' and is readily broken-down during digestion. It never gets into the bloodstream and consequently can never get to the cells where they are needed. The human body synthesizes the Gluthathione within cells as it is needed."

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Therefore, the MYTH of ASPARAGUS as a CURE for CANCER has never been scientifically documented There are actually NO specific studies to support this possibility, so it is scientifically questionable. However, there is NOTHING wrong in eating ASPARAGUS, for all its nutrient values.

Due to the ongoing Pandemic the threat of Cancer, however, is still around and in the event that you or your loved ones are threatened by the disease, there is an ongoing alternative treatment for Cancer patients, which you can pursue learning about.

The Aveni Foundation is a non-profit 501 (c) organization that is "committed in expediting the development of FDA approved Delta Rex G gene targeted therapies for metastatic cancer and other unmet medical needs. Metastatic cancer is associated with an invariably fatal outcome accounting for 8.8 million deaths worldwide in 2015, a global burden which is expected to increase beyond 13 million by 2030 (data from WHO, 2018: ACS, 2018). Their mission is to support the timely development of innovative targeted therapies for ALL kinds of cancers and other diseases." The foundation is named in honor of Father Joseph Aveni, RCJ, a Rogationist priest who experienced significant clinical benefit from a gene-targeted therapy in 2010 and whose cause for canonization is ongoing.

For more information on the AVENI FOUNDATION, log on to their website at: www.avenifoundation.org.

Pilipino po tayo!

LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH U. REYES, P.C. ATTORNEY-AT-LAW

*Certified Family Law Specialist The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization - Certified Family Law Specialist - Certified Public Accountant (Inactive) -J.D Southwestern University Law School Los Angeles, CA - B.S Accounting California State University, San Bernardino, CA

CALL OR E-MAIL FOR AN APPOINTMENT 213-204-6366 or

kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com

FAMILY LAW - Divorce - Community Property Division - Child Custody and Spousal Support - Domestic Violence Restraining Order - Legal Separation and Nullity - Parentage - Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

IMMIGRATION - Marriage Petitions - Relative Petitions - Removal of Condtional Green Card - Humanitarian Reinstatements - Child Status Protection Act Issues - Deportation Defense - Employment Based Petitions and PERM - H-1B Visas

ESTATES AND TRUST - Living Trust - Wills - Probate - Conservatorship CIVIL LITIGATION - Contract Disputes - Business Disputes - Corporate and Partnership Disputes

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Superior Court is available for ex parte emergency RFO to address these issues.

However, parents should attempt to work together first to come up with some kind of temporary agreement that works for both the parents and for the kids that accommodates the problems caused by the pandemic and modify temporarily t he ex isting custody orders as a solution to the current environment. For example, if exercising the father’s alternate weekend visitation exposes the child to other members of the father’s new household, perhaps the parents can temporarily agree to a virtual visitations such as zoom video conferencing, face time, and other apps available that allows the father to see the child and interact the child without exposing the child to the risk of contagion. The Los Angeles Superior Court has been continuing most hearings except for emergency hearings. It would serve the parties best to co-parent and work out a temporary custody agreement which can be turned into a temporary court order.

at home order in Los Angeles means victims might be stuck with their abusers. Victims might also be losing their job and income. For the most vulnerable people in the community, stay at home order is the same as putting them in a cage with a dangerous creature. Even though there may be an increase in domestic violence during this period, neither law enforcement nor the family courts may hear about the domestic violence and abuse because it is usually the community that reports these incidents when children go to school, when people see their friends, when people are in a situation where other people see what's going on. Now, teachers, childcare providers and, friends are physically cut off from the people and children they normally are in contact with daily.

In add it ion, seeing businesses shuttered and paychecks halted has put intense pressure and hardship on a growing number of people and families who are becoming increasingly depressed. Many are self-medicating at home with drugs and alcohol. Add to that scenario the school closures and children and spouses sheltering toget her at home ca n create a n extremely hostile, even dangerous, environment for many families. It is therefore important for victims to call the police or avail of the Family Courts by filing an application for a restraining order and a kick out order against the perpetrator. The Los Angeles Superior Court is available during this pandemic to issue such emergency orders to protect the victims of domestic violence.

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Family Law Issues during the COVID-19 Pandemic T HE COV I D-19 Pa ndem ic ha s changed our lives almost overnight.

Not only has it changed our lives in terms of our daily routine, jobs, lifestyle, but also our relationship with our family members under the Stay at Home orders in place in major cities such as Los Angeles,

coronavirus crisis is causing many families to experience job loss from the massive layoffs caused by the shutdown of the economy. Financial stress is always one of the big stressors that lead to divorce. Parents are trying to figure out how they can support an entire family.

Divorce caused by Effect of COVID-19 Financial and Emotional “Stay at Home Order” Stress on Custody Orders China is a few months ahead of the US in terms of the impact of this pandemic on families. Statistics show that the number of couples filing for divorce in China is reportedly way up after long periods of COVID 19-related confinement. This gives us a glimpse of the months to come after the stay at home order has been lifted.

The rapid spread of the corona virus has destabilized ever y household particularly those of parents. The closure of schools and child-care facilities has created challenges for scores of parents who must figure out how to keep their children safe while continuing to work from home. The current situation has posed significant challenge to parents with existing custody orders. Many parents are attempting to renegotiate the terms of the existing custody orders at a moment when emotions run high and the Courts are closed for most hearings.

Most families have roles to play for each member of the household such as the parents getting up and going to work or the child being in school. When these roles are radically changed in a time that we’re all feeling incredibly stretched emotionally creates major stress on families. As a result of this stress, marriages may fracture and may result to divorce because the

The stay at home order issued by both the City of Los Angeles and later the State of California has stirred a lot of confusion among divorced parents who share custody of their children. Stay at home orders have required California residents to remain at home, except if they need to go out for essential needs such as for groceries, medication or health care appointments. People can’t go into work unless they are in certain essential jobs. The stay-home orders restrict travel for unapproved purposes. As a result, divorced parents didn’t know if they were allowed to travel to bring their children back and forth to the other parent during visitation schedules. There is confusion about whether the stay-at-home order trumped the custody order or whether the court order trumped the stay-athome order.

Custody and visitation orders are not affected by stay at home orders or other order restricting movement issued by a governmental entity that arises from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The stay at home order does not change the existing parent-child custody orders that may be in place. Just the fear of pandemic is not enough to warrant keeping a child from seeing the other parent. If there is an actual threat of harm to the child, the Los Angeles

Domestic Violence during Stay at Home Order Many domestic violence victims live with their abusers and are now being forced to isolate with their abusers.

Victims may have also lost their source of income and are having a harder time connecting with their support systems such as the victim’s family. Leaving their situation is much more difficult during the pandemic. COVID-19 stay

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, APLC. This article is not a solicitation.

Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He 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, APLC is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@ kenreyeslaw.com. Visit our website at Kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com.

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Mortgage rates hit 39-month lows on coronavirus fears

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MORTGAGE rates are dropping fast — and the reason is surprising. If you’re looking to buy or refinance, it’s wise to lock in a mortgage rate now.

They’re low due to market uncertainty and that could change any day.

Lock your rates and don’t wait.

We can already see that US mortgage rates are in decline. The annual U.S. mortgage rate was 4.54% in 2018 and 3.94% in 2019 according to Freddie Mac. Mortgage rates averaged 3.81% in December, but in January — as the Wuhan coronavirus started to get increased media attention — rates sank even further to about 2.85%..

For context, mortgage rates were at their lowest recorded average ever in November 2012, at 3.31%. If you had just refinanced your loan without any cost and rates are lowered again, this is the best time to lock in, we might never seen these lowest rates again CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

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Why Most People Are Scared of Bankruptcy paper, you will continue ruminating about all of the what-ifs. This will cause your feelings of fear to intensify.

Instead, make a simple list of your fears.

This list might include things like:

THE word “bankruptcy” is packed with all sorts of negative emotional triggers.

It sounds bad — even dirt y. It’s embarrassing. (What if people find out?!)

People paint ugly pictures of what their lives will look like post-bankruptcy.

But it’s not true.

Bankruptcy is an opportunity to close one chapter of your life and open a new chapter — a better chapter. In this new chapter of your life, you get to make choices without the constant pressure of creditors breathing down your back. Your days will feel easier, your responsibilities more manageable, and your choices more abundant. How’s that for a change?

To make the most of this new chapter,

though, you have to face your fears.

What I mean by “facing your fears” is this: Instead of worrying about how your bankruptcy will impact your life, make a plan so that you are in control.

Intentionally set a course of action to make sure that your bankruptcy does not negatively impact your life.

W hat does “faci ng you r fea rs” look like? Below are some practical suggestions that might help.

Number 1: Start by making a list of all the things you are worried about with respect to your bankruptcy. This is important because it gives you the power to begin taking action steps to mitigate this fear. If the fear exists in your mind, but you have not put it to

MORTGAGE UPDATE… FROM PAGE 6 Coronavirus has investors spooked, and spooked investors buy mortgages If we summed up why the coronavirus is affecting U.S. mortgage rates in one word, it would be “uncertainty.” But before we explain that, it helps to have a little background about where the uncertainty in markets is coming from.

“The coronavirus,” said “The New York Times”, has shaken companies and investors around the world who have come to rely on China for its efficient factories, its increasingly affluent consumers and its years of hard-charging economic growth.

“General Motors, Ford, Nissan, and other auto companies have temporarily closed factories. Apple and Starbucks have closed stores. On Tuesday, Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong’s biggest local airline, announced steep cuts to China flights and plans to pare back across its network.”

The abrupt halt to business for these global companies can have farreaching effects. It’s not just China that’s been impacted.

Mark Zandi, Chief Economist with Moody’s Analytics, explains that “the coronavirus is a serious mounting threat to the fragile Chinese and global economies.”

He continues, “It is hard to handicap how broadly the virus will ultimately spread and how virulent it will be, but it has already become highly disruptive to China and increasingly to the rest of Asia. The U.S. will not be immune to its ill effects.”

The impact on U.S. markets and real estate

• I am worried that my friends and my family will find out.

• I am worried that my boss will find out.

• I am worried that I will not qualify for loans or credit cards.

• I am worried about my credit score.

• I am worried that I will be unable to get a job.

Number Two: Now, for each item on the list, make a list of all the things that are within your control that you can do to manage your fears.

For instance, let’s say that you are worried that your friends and your family will find out (which is highly unlikely). What are the things that are within your control that you can do to manage your fears?

You might decide that you will feel better if you tell them directly about your bankruptcy. If this is your decision, you can then go about deciding when and how you will tell them. (Frankly, it’s none of their business, and no one completely understands what it’s like to be in your situation unless they were in your shoes. But I get it. Whether your fears are reasonable or not, they’re real to YOU and unless they are addressed, they can be paralyzing to the point that they stop you from taking action and moving forward with your life.)

On the other hand, you might decide t hat because f r iends a nd fa m i ly members are unlikely to find out about your bankruptcy, you will refrain from telling them but, instead, create a plan for responding to their inquiries should they somehow find out (which, again, is highly unlikely).

There is no right or wrong answer here. The important part is that you face

Don’t Stress!

I will help you find a way out.

DEBT RESOLUTION • Bill Collectors • Lawsuits • Debt Settlement • Foreclosure • Student Loans • Chapter 7/13 Bankruptcy TAX RESOLUTION • IRS Audits • Liens • Levies • Wage Garnishments • Negotiate with IRS • Unfiled Returns

Dr. Yun also suggested that low mortgage rates and little supply will produce quickly-rising home values in the current market.

“The supply is lacking and will not be able to fully accommodate the rising demand. Home prices will get bid up too fast.”

“Another impact is a drop in Chinese buyers of U.S. real estate if there are travel restrictions. At the same time, some of the wealthy Chinese may desire to have a property out of China, including in the U.S. and thereby bring about even more demand.”

Thanks for your support and inquiries, call Ken Go of 1st Innovative Finance at 562-508-7048 or write to Kennethgo@verizon.net. NMLS 238636 CADRE 01021223

(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 1-866477-7772).

TAX PROBLEMS?

“The U.S. Treasury is the safe go-to place in times of uncertainty, so further drops in [rates] are a possibility,” says Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist, NAR

This moment presents an interesting opportunity for mortgage borrowers.

Rates are near historic lows and far, far away from the historic high (18.63% in 1981).

If you’re in the market to finance or refinance what do you do? If you believe rates will fall during the next few weeks then you might want to let the rate float but I would lock now if you can get a no fee refinanced loan with a minimum of .50% lower on your current rate.

• Do you think rates could stagnate or rise? Then lock in a rate as soon as you get a chance As always with mortgage financing, shop around to get the best deal. Get a “NO COST LOAN” we offer that all day, call us.

For a free evaluation of your case, please call our office at Toll-Free 1-866477-7772 to schedule a free consultation.

Let us help you. ***NOTE: Due to the virus lockdown, I am currently offering consultations via phone or video.

Please call the office to schedule your appointment with me. Questions? Email me at gethelp@rjb-lawoffices.com.

DEBT PROBLEMS?

When there is investor uncertainty, money tends to flow into the United States, the world’s most stable market. With more money in domestic markets interest rates tend to fall.

“The U.S. Treasury is the safe go-to place in times of uncertainty, so further drops in yields are a possibility,” says Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist with the National Association of Realtors. “That automatically lowers mortgage rates [as] demand gets juiced up.”

Should you lock in now or wait for rates to drop again?

your fears and determine what you can do that is within your control to address them. Having a plan will put many of your fears to rest.

What are some of the other things you can do to face your fears? If you are worried about the impact the bankruptcy will have on your credit score, you can learn everything you can about credit-scoring, budgeting, and managing finances so that you feel empowered to make strong financial choices and build a better future for yourself and your family. You can talk to your bankruptcy attorney and ask for tips and advice. You can read books, take courses, or go online and search for free information.

The truth is: People file for bankruptcy all the time, and they go on to live lives that are filled with happiness, laughter, and financial security. Your bankruptcy will not be a negative force if you make a proactive decision to face your fears and recover through bankruptcy. If you decide right here and now that your bankruptcy is going to be a positive force, then it will be! If you have not read my book, “W hat You Need to Know Before Filing Bankruptcy”, you can download it free of charge at www. beforefilingbk.com.

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IN-HOME CAREGIVERS: ARE YOU PAID OVERTIME? IF you are employed as a 24hour caregiver, working aroundthe-clock to provide care and assista nce to a n i nd iv idua l i nside t hei r home, you a re most likely entitled to overtime compensation. If you are paid a fixed daily rate, regardless of the actual hours you work or the quality and quantity of work you perform, you are not receiving overtime compensation a nd likely have a valuable claim for wage theft. This is true whether you are hired directly by the care recipient or paid through a home care agency.

In 2014 the Domestic Workers’ Bill of Rights (“DWBR”) became law in California. The law was passed as part of a movement to enhance the rights of domestic workers, whom the California Legislature deemed to be some of the most invisible and vulnerable workers in the state. Now, under the DWBR, in-home caregivers are entitled to receive overtime wages for all hours worked in excess of 9 in a day or 45 in a week.

In California, most 24-hour caregivers must be paid a minimum of $378.00 per day to comply with the requirements of the DWBR. The first 9-hours of work should be paid at the legal minimum wage rate of $12.00 per hour, which equals $108.00. Then, for the remaining 15 hours, the law requires overtime payments at a rate of $18.00 per hour, which amounts to an additional $270.00 per day.

Unfortunately, in actual practice, most caregivers receive far less than the applicable minimum wage, often earning as little as $180 to $240 per day. A 24-hour caregiver who is earning less than $378.00 per day likely has a very valuable claim for wage theft.

For example, if you are a caregiver working 24-hours per day, 5 days per week for a salary of $1,100 per week (or $220 per day), your weekly unpaid overtime claim is calculated as follows: Your weekly salary of $1,100 is divided by 45 hours to calculate a regular rate of pay, equal to $24.44 per

hour. Your overtime rate is 1.5 times your regular rate of pay, which amounts to $36.66 per hour.

Your pre-determined salary does not compensate you, at all, for the 15 daily overtime hours you work. So, each day, you accrue $550.00 of unpaid overtime wages.

Employers, who willfully fail to pay an employee the requisite overtime compensation, are also subject to liquidated damages, which could add an additional $180.00 per day to the wage theft claim. Plus, the law provides for

interest, attorneys fees, and penalties.

In the above example, the hypothetical caregiver is owed $2,750 in unpaid overtime wages per week. On a yearly basis, the overtime claim alone exceeds $140,000. We have helped many caregivers whose claims exceed $500,000 in damages with the addition of penalties, liquidated damages and interest, after working for several years.

Caregivers, who are victims of wage theft, may recover their unpaid wages going back 4 years from the date a lawsuit is filed in court. We have helped many caregivers file claims against their former employers. Even if you last worked several years ago, you still have time to pursue a claim.

The one exception is if the care recipient patient has passed away. In that instance, a claim against the care recipient’s estate must be filed within 1 year of their passing, or sooner if an estate has been opened.

If you are a caregiver and are hesitant to proceed with claims for wage theft against your current or former employer please visit our website at www.caregiverovertime.com/pa/concerns/ to review our article that addresses many of the common concerns we have heard from caregivers.

If you are a caregiver working 24-hour shifts without overtime compensation, we want to talk with you about your legal rights. We provide compassionate and confidential consultations. Please contact us at (818) 807-4168, for a free case evaluation.

This article is an attorney advertisement written by Daniel Chaleff, employment law attorney at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson in Woodland Hills.

Our examples are of a general nature and are not a guarantee regarding the outcome of your individual matter. The law firm focuses on caregiver rights. Please call us at (818) 807-4168 for a free case evaluation. Or visit us at www.caregiverovertime.com/ to learn more about caregiver overtime law. We offer a 24-hour chat line on our website.

PH retains highest classification in US anti-TIP standards MANILA (Mabuhay) — The United States retained Manila's Tier 1 status in its annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report, the highest classification, for the fifth year in a row.

The State Department recognized Manila's assistance to a total of 6,772 potential trafficking victims and around 1,143 Filipino trafficking survivors from the Middle East and Asia.

Among others, it lauded the country's efforts to convict and punish traffickers and the increased use of prosecution procedures reducing further harm to the victims.

"The Philippines fully meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking. The government continued to demonstrate serious and sustained efforts during the reporting period; therefore, the Philippines remained on Tier 1," the 2020 TIP report read.

The Philippines moved from Tier 2 to Tier 1 in 2016 and retained the status for five consecutive years. Although it meets minimum standards, the report said the country's community reintegration services remain inadequate.

It also noted that Manila "did not vigorously investigate and prosecute" officials allegedly involved in TIP crimes nor increase support for specialized protection for child victims of cyber-facilitated sex trafficking.

In its recommendation, Washington said the country should increase its efforts to investigate, prosecute, and convict complicit officials and labor traffickers as well as strengthen the capacity of local government units in providing reintegration programs for the survivors.

The State Department also recommended the following: • Establishment of a process to get inputs from a diverse community of

survivors that could help in anti-trafficking policies and programs.

• Boost support to government and non-government organization programs that provide specialized care for child victims of online sexual exploitation.

• Increase resources for anti-trafficking task forces for timely investigations, coordinated operations, and prosecutions.

• Aggressively identify and assist child labor trafficking victims

• Consistently carry out coordinated interagency response for returning Filipinos who experienced sex and labor trafficking overseas.

• Create a central database for information on illegal recruiters and human trafficking cases to facilitate interagency coordination in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting traffickers.

In a statement, the Philippine embassy in Washington DC said Manila's retention at Tier 1 status underlines

the country's seriousness in combating all forms of human trafficking.

"We remain fully committed to working with domestic and international partners, including the US, in addressing this global concern. In this context, the Philippines shall continue to engage with both labor-sending but more importantly labor-receiving countries in promoting the welfare and protecting the rights of migrant workers everywhere," it said. (MNS)

DOT eyes allowing entry of tourists from countries with low to zero COVID-19 cases M ANIL A (Mabuhay) — The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Friday bared plans to allow foreign tourists from countries with relatively low cases of COVID-19 to visit certain tourist destinations in the country, in a bid to revive the hardhit tourism sector.

“We are looking at in the near future, what we call travel bubbles or travel corridors,” Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said during the Laging Handa public briefing.

“Ibig sabihin, we are talking to different count r ies na ha los wa la ng COVID cases... na puwede na silang lumipad diretso sa tourist destinations,” Romulo-Puyat said.

The Tourism chief cited famous destinations such sa Bohol and Boracay since the tourist spots have their own international airports and have low cases of COV-

ID-19.

“Since zero COVID naman sila, we are looking at from their country to Boracay or Bohol na puwede na tayo maka-travel bubble or travel corridor so at least hindi lang tayo limited sa international tourism,” she said.

Apart from Boracay and Bohol, the DOT is a lso considering Palawan as the province also has low cases of the diseases.

“Tinitignan din namin ‘yung countries like Australia and New Zealand... may option sila to fly sa mga islands with international airports,” Romulo-Puyat said, noting that there are 12 international airports all over the country.

“For example, Australia or New Zealand to Bohol,” she said.

Since most of the countr y shifted to modified general community quar-

antine, the government has allowed tourism activities to resume but at 50% operating capacity.

Tourism is also limited to domestic travel.

Romulo-Puyat said that the tourism sector, which employs 5.7 million as of 2019, has already lost 60% of revenue from January to May due to lockdown measures and strict travel restrictions implemented both locally and globally.

Bec au se of t h i s, Finance Secretar y Carlos Dom ing uez III sa id in March that P14 billion of the P27.1-billion spending plan to combat COVID-19 and provide economic relief to affected industries has been earmarked for the tourism sector.

Also in March, airlines rol led out d iscou nted flights, while DOT-accredited hotels and resorts lowered their prices, offering

TOURISM SECRETARY BERNADETTE ROMULO-PUYAT

as much as 70% off their published rates, in order to keep the tourism sector afloat.

As the tourism sector gradually resumes, the DOT is in close coordinat ion w it h loca l government units as well as private stakeholders to ensure health protocols are in place, according to the Tourism chief.

“If this goes well, we will finally be able to accept [tourists from] countries wherein practically zero or low cases of COVID,” Romulo-Puyat said.

(MNS)

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PADATING NA ANG CENSUS SA PANAHON NG TAGSIBOL Simula sa kalagitnaan ng Marso, sasagot tayo ng siyam na madadaling mga tanong upang makatulong na maipaalam kung paano gugugulin ang pera sa ating mga komunidad sa susunod na sampung taon.

Lahat ng mga sagot ay protektado at mananatiling lihim.

Para sa karagdagang kaalaman, tumungo sa CaliforniaCensus.org.

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Duterte honors heroism of Filipino troops in Korean War MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday paid tribute to the more than 7,000 Filipino soldiers who joined the Korean War seven decades ago.

Duterte said the bravery and heroism of Filipino troops during the war led to the establishment of “special ties” between the Philippines and South Korea.

“Today, we honor the Filipinos and soldiers of all nations who fought valiantly in that war. There is no other way. We must recognize bravery is not easy to muster. We must remember heroism very seldom seen, and we must reaffirm values so sacred.

They form the bedrock of our special bilateral ties,” he said in his message for the 70th anniversary of the Korean War. The Korean War started on June 25,

1950, when North Korea attempted to invade South Korea.

The Philippines sent about 7,240 members of the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea (PEFTOK) when war broke out at the Korean Peninsula.

It was the first Asian country to respond to the call of the United Nations to help South Korea fight a massive invasion by North Korean communist forces.

During the war, Filipino troops from the 10th, 14th, 19th, 20th, and 1st Battalion Combat Teams fought with the armed forces of South Korea and allied nations against the troops of North Korea and its ally China.

Manila is currently enjoying a solid friendship with Seoul due to the PEFTOK’s sacrifices.

Duterte hailed PEFTOK’s partici-

pation in the Korean War, saying it only demonstrates that Filipinos al-

PH works with IOM to aid Pinoys in Egypt, Sudan MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippine embassy in Cairo is working with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to help more Filipinos affected by the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic in the region.

In a televised Laging Handa briefing, Ambassador Sulpicio Confiado on Friday said around 200 displaced Filipinos are expected to receive aid in the coming days.

"Mayroon po tayong (We are doing some) initiatives na ginawa for those who a re rea l ly i n need, we have distributed around 100 food pack s a nd we have a second wave of 200 plus AMBASSADOR in coordination SULPICIO CONFIADO

with the IOM," he said.

The IOM also distributed around 340 food packages to overseas Filipinos in Sudan, which is under the jurisdiction of the Philippine embassy in Cairo.

Confiado said the Egyptian government had already designated 26 hospitals and 10 laboratories dedicated to coronavirus response and would shoulder all expenses of patients being treated for the disease.

Based on the latest data from World Hea lth Organization, at least 59,561 have been diagnosed with Covid-19 in Egypt, 2,450 of whom have died.

Confiado said only two Filipinos in Egypt and its other jurisdictions (Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Sudan) tested positive for coronavirus.

"Sa ngayon dalawang cases pa lang tayo dito sa (Currently, we have two cases here in) Egypt and our four other jurisdictions," he said.

The envoy said around 312 Filipinos working on a railway project in Ethiopia have been repatriated to the Philippines. (MNS)

ways have the dedication to fight for independence.

“Seven decades ago, more than 7,000 young Filipino soldiers joined allies in the Korean War. From the great Battle of Yultong to the Battle of Eerie Hill, Filipinos never faltered in defending freedom and the democratic way of life,” he said.

The President also called for solidarity anew, as he recognized the pressing challenges that the world continues to face today.

“As the world faces emerging challenges yet, let the memory of those who fell in (the) Korean War inspire us all to rise together jointly in solidarity,” he said.

Duterte’s latest call came as the Philippines and other countries continue to look for ways to address the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

As of June 25, the Philippines has reported 33,069 confirmed Covid-19 cases, with 8,910 recoveries and 1,212 deaths. (MNS)

Safety is a family affair

Living in a multigenerational household means taking extra precautions to keep everyone safe and healthy. Limit outdoor activities and wear protective gear when necessary to go out in public. Because going the extra mile to protect yourself also protects your family.

Keeping each other safe is another way to say “I love you.”

Let AARP help. For tips and resources during COVID-19, visit

aarp.org/coronavirus

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Ikumpleto ang 2020 Census online ngayon.

Ikumpleto ang census ngayon para makatulong i-inform kung saan ilalaan ang bilyones na mapupunta sa mga bagay katulad ng health care, transportation at education kada taon sa susunod na sampung taon.

Ilang minuto lamang para mabigyang hugis ang ating kinabukasan, kaya kumpletuhin and census online, sa telepono o by mail.

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No proof ex-Wirecard exec left PH despite BI records — DOJ MANILA (Mabuhay) — Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Friday said electronic records of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) showed that Jan Marsalek, former chief operating officer of the scandal-hit financial tech firm Wirecard, flew into the country last June 23 and left the next morning from Cebu.

"Entries in the central database of the BI indicate that Mr. Marsalek flew in on June 23 and left in the morning of June 24 for China from Cebu International Airport," Guevarra said in a message to reporters.

He, however, said security closedcircuit television (CCTV) camera footage did not show Marsalek arriving in the country and that there is no record of any flight to China scheduled on the morning of June 24 from Cebu due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) lockdown.

"The BI is now investigating its MIS (Management Information System) division personnel," Guevarra said.

Gueva rra ea rlier sa id based on previous BI records, Marsalek arrived in the Philippines on March 3 and departed on March 5.

The Department of Justice (DOJ), upon consultation with Bangko Sentral ng Pi l ipi nas Gover nor Benja m i n Diokno, directed the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to investigate certain individuals who are reportedly involved in t he Wirecard case in Germany, allegedly resulting in the loss of 1.9 billion euros (USD2.1 billion).

The NBI will coordinate with the AntiMoney Laundering Council in the initial phase of the investigation.

Guevarra, meanwhile, said the NBI has invited lawyer Mark Tolentino to shed light on his alleged involvement in the scandal.

Reports said Tolentino, through his law firm, opened six bank accounts in

Makati and Taguig City after he was approached by walk-in clients, including foreigners who said they would be setting up a financial tech company in the Philippines.

T he i nvestor s, w ho ident i f ied themselves as representatives of a

executive officer, had been arrested in Germany after being accused of inflating the company's balance sheet.

The BSP earlier said none of the USD2.1-billion missing funds from the German firm entered the Philippines' financial system. (MNS)

Ex-Senator Ramon Revilla Sr. dies at 93 MANILA (Mabuhay) — Former Senator and film actor Ramon Revilla Sr. has passed away. He was 93.

The news was confirmed by his son, Senator Bong Revilla. "Wala na po ang tatay ko, please pray for him," Bong said in an emotional video he posted on Facebook past 5 p.m.

Bong said his father died at 5:20 p.m. due to heart failure.

"He is now free from physical pain and is in the loving arms of our Creator.

Thank you very much for the love and prayers," he added.

Earlier this month, the older Revilla had his heart examined after being hospitalized for difficulty in breathing.

He no longer went through angioplasty after yielding good test results.

After being hooked to a ventilator, his condition eventually stabilized. He even spent Father's Day at home with his family.

A day before he passed away, his son Bong again asked for prayers from the public.

Agimat of the movie industry Revilla was born on March 8, 1927 in Imus, Cavite as Jose Acuña Bautista. He was a popular ‘50s action star before going into government service as a senior intelligence officer with the rank of major for the Bureau of Customs from 1965 to 1972.

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Singaporean firm, allegedly asked Tolentino to be a trustee of the company.

Wirecard saw its shares crash after its auditor said it could not trace 1.9 billion euros in cash, representing roughly a quarter of Wirecard's balance sheet.

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Returning to showbiz in the ‘70s, Revilla made popular the agimat (amulet) of Filipino folklore with his portrayal of fictional and real-life characters such as Nardong Putik (1972) and Pepeng Agimat (1973).

Revilla won the FAMAS Best Actor in 1973 for the movie "Hulihin Si Tiyagong Akyat"; Box Office King in 1979 and the Most Outstanding Actor of the Year that same year; Outstanding Producer of the Year in 1976; and Outstanding Film Production and Socio-civic Leader in 1975.

Father of Public Works Act He entered the political scene in 1992, winning two terms as senator until 2004. He first tried his luck in the Senate in 1987 as an independent candidate but the Commission on Elections nullified the votes for his screen name.

As a legislator, he was known as the “Father of the Public Works Act” for his authorship of Republic Act (RA) 8150 or the Public Works and Highways Infrastructure Program, which specified the government’s policy on infrastructure development. The program, however, was not fully funded.

Revilla also authored the law amending RA 6425 or the Dangerous Drugs Act, by imposing the penalty of life imprisonment to death on drug traffickers.

Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed in 2006 a law abolishing the death penalty.

He also co-sponsored RA 8370 or the Children’s Media Act, which requires television networks to devote at least 15 percent or three hours of their daily total airtime to child-friendly shows.

RA 8294, now known as the “Revilla Law,” amended certain provisions of Presidential Decree No. 1866, lowering the penalties imposed for illegal possession of firearms. The said law has been amended through RA 10591 in 2013.

Patriarch Revilla is the father of Senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla, Jr.; Cavite 2nd District Representative Strike Revilla; and Evelyn Bautista-Jaworski, wife of former basketball superstar and ex-Senator Robert Jaworski; among others.

He is also the father of slain actor-model Ramgen Revilla. Ramgen's siblings were considered suspects in

RAMON REVILLA SR. their brother's murder on October 2011.

Ramon Sr. had fathered at least 72 children from 16 different women.

In 2008, Ramon Sr. survived a stroke and underwent angioplasty although he never fully recovered from the incident.

On July 11, 2015 he was rushed to the St. Luke's Medical Center in Taguig City due to pneumonia and dehydration.

More than a year after, on December 10, Ramon Sr. was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of the same hospital.

In June this year, he was confined anew, but was spared a heart procedure after his angiogram showed good results.

Senators mourn Senate President Vicente Sotto III and Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri on Friday extended their condolences to the loved ones of Revilla.

"Don Ramon had a kind and good heart. His love for the masses and his deep concern for the welfare of our underprivileged brothers and sisters was an inspiring light that laid down the parameters of authentic public service," Sotto said in a statement.

Zubiri said Revilla's "real-life work easily overshadowed the heroics of his film roles."

"He was a hero both on and off screen," he said. (MNS)

Palace tells UN special rapporteurs to respect Philippine legal system MANILA (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Friday urged United Nations special rapporteurs to respect the Philippines’ legal system after claiming that domestic mechanisms have failed to ensure accountability in connection with the alleged human rights abuses in the country.

In a statement, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque slammed the special rapporteurs’ suggestion for the member states of the UN Human Rights Council to initiate “governmental sanctions and criminal prosecution” against Filipino officials who have committed, incited or failed to prevent human rights abuses.

“The conclusions they have reached and the sanctions they have demanded confirm the lack of impartiality that has unfortunately tainted the human rights mechanisms of the United Nations when it comes to the Duterte administration,” Roque said.

Roque maintained that the Philippines has continuously discharged its obligations to punish violations of human rights, citing legislation and mechanisms against torture and enforced disappearances, laws to enforce the international humanitarian law and penal laws.

He also said the country has a “working and independent judiciary” that is ready to hear and decide on cases related to human rights violations.

“We call on the special rapporteurs to respect our legal system and the Philippines as a sovereign state,” he said.

Malacañang has repeatedly rejected the UN’s findings on the human rights situation in the Philippines under President Rodrigo Duterte, whose campaign against illegal drugs has killed thousands of drug personalities in police operations since he assumed office in 2016. (MNS)

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Covid-19 cases rise after relaxation of quarantine — DOH MANIL A (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday reported a rising trend in new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections in some parts of the country following the shift to general community quarantine (GCQ) in Metro Manila and most provinces this June.

In an online briefing, Dr. Beverly Ho, DOH Health Promotion and Communication Service director, said that while the highest number of new cases remained in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Region 7 (Central Visayas) these past months, some regions have reported an increase in the number of their cases in the past 14 days.

“Lumalaki na din po ang mga kaso na nanggagaling sa ibang mga rehiyon.

Ma k i k ita nat in na tumataas ang kaso ng Region 8 dito (There is a rise in the number of infections in other regions. We see a rise in Region 8 [Eastern Visayas]),” Ho said.

Over the past two weeks, she said the top five sectors with the highest number of cases were NCR with 3,641 recent cases, Central Visayas with 2,573, Calabarzon with 405, Eastern Visayas with 234, and repatriates with 198.

This, compared to the regions with the highest total cases since the pan-

demic began – NCR with 9,921, Central Visayas with 5,902, repatriates w ith 1,778, Calabarzon with 1,092, and Central Luzon with 413.

Aside from the less stringent quarantine protocols, Ho said the rising number of cases may also be attributed to the increasing daily testing output of the country – from 8,000 to 10,000 daily testing output in March to 16,000 in June – and the continued community transmission of the disease.

She cited the high community transmission in Cebu in Central Visayas, with a positivity rate of 32.8 percent (out of 644 tests per day) from June 16 to 24.

“Ano ibig sabihin nito?

Sa kada 100 na nate-test, halos 33 na tao ang nagpa-positive (What does this mean? This means that for every 100 people tested, almost 33 people are positive w ith Covid-19),” Ho said.

In the same period, she said the NCR had a positivity rate of 7.2 percent (9,877 tests per day), while the whole country, on average, had a 6.8 percent positivity rate (15,168 tests per day).

While the new data can be alarming, Ho said the countr y is not helpless against the disease due to its good critical care utilization rate.

“The critical care utilization rate, or 'y ung abi l it y ng sistema na makapag-accommodate pa ng mga pasyente, ay ayos pa tayo (the system’s ability to accommodate patients is still good),” she said.

According to the latest Covid-19 bulletin of the DOH, the country has a total bed capacity of 13,532 a nd 2,0 07 vent i lators (19.49 percent currently in use) for Covid-19 patients.

Of the total bed capacity, there are 3,039 ward beds with a 39.98-percent occupancy rate; 9,198 isolation beds, 37.26 percent of which are occupied; and 1,295 beds at the intensive care units with an occupancy rate of 37.3 percent.

Ho said the public can i mprove it s st a nd i ng against the disease by following health protocols.

“Ang mas importante is we know what to do. Ayon sa pag-aaral, kung tayo ay magma-mask, it reduces our chances na mahawa by 85 percent. If we will observe physical distancing, male-lessen din ang chances na mahawa tayo by 80 percent (What’s important is we know what to do. According to studies, masks reduce transmission of the disease by 85 percent. Physical distancing, meanwhile, reduces the chances of transmission by 80 percent),” she said. (MNS)

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PRRD urges Asean to find ‘innovative ways’ to end sea disputes MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Friday enjoined the other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) to look for “innovative” ways to resolve the long-standing disputes in the resource-rich South China Sea. Duterte, in a speech delivered du r ing t he 36t h a n nua l A sea n summit, maintained that tensions among South China Sea claimants should de-escalate.

He said provocative acts could only trigger hostilities within the disputed waters.

“We must also not lose sight of strategic interest in (the South) China Sea. We must find innovative ways and exercise flexibility to achieve our common goal,” the President said.

He made the appeal to his fellow Asean leaders as he acknowledged t hat t here a re st i l l “a la r m i ng incidents” in the South China Sea. “We call on the parties to refrain from escalating tension and abide by the responsibilities under the international law, notably the 1982 UNCLOS (United Nations Convention for the Law of the Sea),” he said.

Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam are claiming parts of the South China Sea, while China is claiming most of the busy waterway.

Negotiations between the Asean and China are still underway for the crafting of a final and binding Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea, which aims to promote peace and stability in the highly contested waters.

Vietnamese deput y foreign minister Nguyen Quoc Dung reportedly said on Thursday that

senior officials of the Asean and China would hold a meeting on July 1 to discuss the range of cooperation mechanisms, including the specific plans for the resumption of delayed negotiations for the crafting of the COC in the South China Sea. Duterte remained optimistic that the Asean and China would come up with an “effective and substantive” COC in the South China Sea. “We remain committed to work closely with the member-states and China towards the early conclusion of an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the South China Sea,” he said.

Pending the crafting of the sea code, Duterte said the Asean and China should implement the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct (DOC) of Parties in the South China Sea. “We urge all parties to adhere to the rule of law and to their commitments to i nter nat iona l i n st r u ment s, including the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea,” he said.

The DOC, inked by the 10 Asean members and China on Nov. 4, 2002, aims to exercise self-restraint and promote non-militarization within the South China Sea. (MNS)

Health & & Family Health Family DOH exec: UV light as disinfectant best in healthcare settings only

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MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday said the use of ultraviolet (UV) light as a disinfectant is only appropriate in healthcare settings such as inside hospitals and clinics.

Asked about the rising popularity of cleaning devices that make use of UV light amid the pandemic, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said there is no sufficient evidence yet to prove that UV lights are an effective disinfectant in any other setting.

“Ayon po sa recommendation ng World Health Organization (WHO) tungkol sa cleaning and disinfection, ang mga devices na gumagamit ng UV light para sa disinfection ay angkop para sa healthcare settings,” she said at a briefing.

“Alinsunod sa rekomendasyon ng WHO ay hindi po ito replacement o maaaring pamalit sa manual na paglilinis at pagpupunas at pagtanggal ng mga contaminants mula sa environmental surfaces,” she added.

Vergeire also said that other factors such as the dose of light and the exposure of the item subject to disinfection may affect the effectiveness of UV light against contaminants.

“Bukod po dito, maaari po itong magdulot ng pinsala sa paningin, skin irritation, pagkasunog, at increased risk for skin cancer kaya’t hindi po namin ito inirerekomenda sa ngayon,” she said.

The DOH instead recommended the use of alcohol or bleach solution to disinfect surfaces.

Meanwhile, Vergeire said “tuob” or steam inhalation is not a cure for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), following controversial statements made by Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia.

Vergeire cited the World Health Organization, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and local medical societies in stressing that steam inhalation’s effects against COVID-19 are still unproven.

“Wala pong scientific evidence na nagpapatunay na ang steam inhalation ay nakakapatay ng virus na nagiging sanhi ng sakit na COVID-19,” she said in a briefing.

“Sa halip, ito po ay maaari pang makasama at magdulot ng aksidente gaya ng pagkapaso o pagkasunog ng balat,” she added.

The DOH also said that steam inha-

Gov’t targets to reach 1M Covid-19 tests by July MANILA (Mabuhay) — The government targets to reach one million tests for coronavirus disease 2019 (Cov id-19) by nex t month, National Policy Against Covid-19 Deputy Chief Implementer Vivencio Dizon said.

In a Palace briefing Thursday, Dizon said the country now has the capacit y to test more persons as over one million test kits arrived last weekend.

The expanded targeted community testing will focus especially on Metro Manila, Central Lu zon, Ca laba rzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon), Cebu, and Davao, he said.

As of June 23, actual Covid-19 tests already reached 612,571 from just 17,414 tests last March, he said.

Dizon reiterated the country’s daily testing capacity has improved since the Covid-19 out-

break in March with the increased number of testing laboratories and enough supply of test kits.

From a 2,000 test capacity in a day in March, the country has a capacity to do 51,302 tests per day as of June 19, he added.

The country already hit its 50,000 testing capacity target earlier than end-June 2020.

He said the country now also has 66 testing laboratories.

Dizon said a high number of confirmed Covid-19 cases will be expected in the coming weeks as the government accelerates the testing activities.

“This is important that our public should understand that while we are increasing our testing capacity, we will find more positive cases; but the positivity rate is declining,” he said in Filipino.

Dizon said the Cov-

id-19 positiv ity rate in the Philippines fell from 20 percent during the period when testing was limited, to nearly 5 percent to date.

Positivity rate is the percentage of people confirmed being infected with Covid-19 out of the total number of tested persons.

“According to t he WHO (World Health Organization), a 5-percent positivity rate and lower is a sign that a country is improving in its management on Covid-19 cases. We are near at that point. We are nearly below 5 percent,” Dizon said.

He added the turnaround time of Covid-19 tests also improved from more than two week s i n Ma rch to only 48 to 72 hours this month.

This was also improved through automated testing that fasttrack the results.

(MNS)

DOH warns public vs 'tuob'

lation may lead to the further spread of the virus through aerosolization.

Garcia recently came under fire on social media for publicly berating two doctors who opposed her advocacy for steam inhalation against COVID-19.

The governor earlier released a memorandum encouraging employees to practice tuob.

The provincial government has since said in a statement that Garcia does not take issue against people

who do not believe in steam inhalation but is only against the supposedly “unethical behaviors” of the two doctors who “mocked” her online.

The statement also said that Garcia claimed that steam inhalation as a cure for the virus, but that "it is her duty to tell the millions of Cebuanos in the province that there is an alternative that could help boost their immune system, along with other home remedies." (MNS)

PWD ID issuance must be reviewed to prevent abuses — Angara MANILA (Mabuhay) — The process of issuing identification cards for persons with disabilities (PWD) must be reviewed to prevent abuses on discount privileges while various establishments are scrambling to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, Senator Sonny Angara said on Thursday.

He filed Senate Resolution No. 455, seeking a Senate probe on reported proliferation of "fake" PWD IDs. Angara, one of the authors and sponsors of Republic Act 10754 or the law expanding the benefits and privileges of PWDs, underscored that the main purpose of the PWDs' 20% discount and exemption from value added tax on the purchase of goods and services is to help them participate more in society.

"The exploitation on the use of the benefits and privileges specifically intended to help alleviate any financial burden encountered by PWDs should not be tolerated especially at this time when establishments like restaurants, entertainment centers and hotels are still struggling from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic," he said.

"A review of the implementation of this provision of the law is clearly needed so that the appropriate safeguards would be introduced to ensure only those who are in actual need of the benefits and privileges are granted such while also protecting the establishments against abuses," he added.

According to the senator, the National Council on Disability Affairs' (NCDA) guidelines states that a PWD ID card may be issued to any bonafide PWD with permanent disabilities due to psychosocial, chronic illness, learning, mental, visual, orthopedic, or speech and hearing conditions.

The NCDA said it is already checking complaints involving a family in Quezon City where si x member s had been reg i stered a s PW Ds despite nonsubmission of required documents.

Inter ior Secreta r y Eduardo Año also urged local government units to be stricter in issuing PWD IDs. (MNS) SENATOR SONNY ANGARA

MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday warned the public against possible harms of "tuob" or steam inhalation, which purportedly kills Sars Cov 2, the virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

In a Covid-19 virtual presser, DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said there is no scientific evidence proving that inhalation of steam with salt, lemon, and other ingredients could prevent Covid-19 infection.

"Ang US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [USCDCP] at World Health Organization [WHO] ay itinanggi na ang steam inhalation ay nakagagaling sa (The USCDCP and the WHO denied that steam inhalation can treat) Covid-19," Vergeire said.

She also noted that local medical societies do not recommend steam inhalation as a curative or preventive measure.

"May posibilidad pa na maaring sumama sa singaw a ng v ir us na maaa ri pa ng pagmulan ng sakit. Ito ay nagpaparami ng secretions sa ilong na posibleng makahawa sa iba sapamamagitan ng pagbahing o pag-ubo (The virus may get into the steam which may cause diseases. It also increases nasal secretions that can be spread through coughing or sneezing)," Vergeire said.

Steam inhalation can also cause skin burns, she added.

According to the DOH, wearing face masks, frequent and proper handwashing, observing physical distancing, and practice of proper cough etiquette remain the best measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19. (PNA)

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Gov’t won’t allow POGOs with unpaid taxes to resume MANILA (Mabuhay) — Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) that fail to settle their unpaid taxes are not allowed to resume their operations amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Malacañang said on Thursday.

In a v irtua l presser aired on state-r u n P T V-4, P resident ia l Spokesperson Harry Roque ensured that the government would not tolerate tax-evading POGOs. “Hindi po tayo papayag na magoperate ang mga POGO ng may pag ka kauta ng ( We wou ld not allow POGOs with unpaid taxes to operate),” Roque said.

On Wednesday, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said his office is now looking into reports that some POGOs have reopened despite their failure to pay the tax payments required by the government.

The Finance department’s probe bega n fol low i ng Senator Joel Villanueva’s recent revelation that only two POGOs were able to settle their tax liabilities, but many more already resumed their operations.

It w a s i n Ma rc h w hen t he Philippine Gaming and Amusement Corp. (PAGCOR) suspended POGO operations due to the threat posed

by Covid-19.

However, the government allowed in May the partial reopening of offshore gaming firms on conditions that they first settle ta xes and obtain clearance from the Bureau of Internal Revenue, pay fees required

by PAGCOR, a nd shou lder t he Covid-19 testing of its employees.

Only 30 percent of the POGO workforce is allowed to report for work.

Dominguez said his department is already monitoring the tax-evading POGOs that are reportedly operating amid the nationwide implementation of community quarantine.

To date, there are 60 licensed POGO operators in the Philippines.

From 2016 to 2019, the revenues collected by PAGCOR from POGOs already reached over PHP18 billion.

L a s t y e a r, t he gov er n ment collected PHP6.4 billion after it ran after tax-deficient POGOs. Doming uez’s of f ice has a lso estimated that the government would be able to collect up to PHP20 billion a year in corporate and personal income taxes from POGOs. (MNS)

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Poe blames NTC for slow internet in the Philippines MANILA (Mabuhay) — Sen. Grace Poe on Friday blamed the National Telecommunications Commission's "incompetence" for the slow internet speeds in the Philippines, saying the agency has not pushed for the construction of cellular towers in the country.

As of 2018, the Philippines has nearly 17,000 cell sites, while regional peers Indonesia and Vietnam have 91,000, and 70,000 cell towers, respectively, according to data from Globe Telecom.

"Napaka-incompetent talaga ng regulator natin, I am sorry to say," Poe said. "'Yung NTC, dapat talaga 'yan ang inaatupag nila. Iba ang inaatupag e... Hindi lang 'yan sa administrasyong ito, marami diyan carry over from the past [administrations]," she said.

The criticism against the NTC comes as the country's education and business sectors shift to online classes and work-from-home schemes to limit the public's possible exposure to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

In 2017, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said 250,000 WiFi spots and 47,000 cell sites would be built in the country in the coming years.

Telcos have yet to report how many new cell towers have been built in the last few years, Poe said.

"Siguro kami (senators) na lang magpapa-report directly, monthly dito sa mga telco kung ano ang kanilang ginagawa at kung kailangan mag-file ng mga kaso sa kung kanikanino," she said.

Poe's Senate Committee on Public Services is expected to hold a hearing next week to look into the state of the country's internet during the global pandemic. (MNS)

$3.1B of ‘hot money’ exited PHL in January-May — BSP MANILA (Mabuhay) — Foreign portfolio investments (FPI) or “hot money” yielded a net outflow of $3.1 billion million in the first five months of 2020 due to the impact of COVID-19 pandemic and other external pressures, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Thursday.

FPI is also called hot money because of the ease by which the fund enters and exit markets.

The January to May net “hot money” outf low was recorded as gross outflows of $7.8 billion exceeded $4.7 billion gross inflows for the said period.

The net “hot money” outflow du r i ng t he per iod is la rger compared to $685 million net inflows in the same period in 2019.

The BSP attributed the exit of FPI to “uncertainties due, among ot hers, to t he impact of t he COVID-19 pandemic to the global economy and financial system.”

Other key events earlier in the year such as the continuing geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran; (ongoing trade negotiations between the US and China; and renegotiation of the contracts of the country’s water concessionaires.

For the month of May alone, net FPI outflow stood at $1.0 billion, lower than $660 million outflow in April.

Bulk or 88.3% of investments registered were in Philippine Stock Exchange-listed securities mainly to property companies, holding firms, banks, retail companies and telecommunication firms; while the remaining 11.8% went to investments in Peso Government Securities.

T he Un ited K i ngdom, t he United States, Singapore, Hong Kong and Luxembourg were the top five investor countries for the month, with combined share to total at 88.1%. (MNS)

SEN. GRACE POE

Duterte worried over high Meralco bills MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has raised concern over the excessive electricity bill charged by the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) to its consumers during the quarantine period due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) outbreak, Malacañang said Thursday.

In a virtual presser aired on state-run PTV-4, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte understands the sentiments of Meralco customers.

“Nakarating na po iyan kay Presidente at siyempre, nabahala siya dahil sa panahon ng pandemya, hindi naman dapat big yan ng additional pahirap na

hindi naman kinakailangan ng ating mga kababayan (The President learned about it and expressed worry because amid the pandemic, he believes the public should not endure additional burden),” Roque said.

Meralco subscribers have been complaining about the sudden spike in their electricity bills since community quarantine was imposed in the country.

The supposedly high electricity rates have been charged against power consumers in May. On May 15, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) directed Meralco to explain and show proof of its basis in calculating the kilowatt-hour for its customers, particularly for the billing periods of March, April, and May 2020.

In a statement released on June 10, the ERC announced that it issued a show-cause order to Meralco on May 29 for allegedly violating the commission’s directives related to bill advisories.

Meralco was given 10 days to explain why it should not be held liable for def ying the guidelines on how to charge power users during the quarantine period.

Roque lauded the ERC for its swift response to address the unprecedented increase in electricity bills.

He said he would ask the ERC for an update on the show-cause order issued to Meralco.

“Ibang usapin pa po kung ano talaga ang magiging desisyon ng ERC doon sa pagsipa ng sinisingil ng kuryente sa ating mga mamamayan (It’s a different story as to what would the ERC’s decision be when it comes to the high electricity rates charged to our fellow countrymen),” Roque said.

Meralco estimated the March and April electricity bills by using its customers’ consumption in the past three months.

However, consumers were shocked by the sudden surge in their supposed electricity consumption for May. (MNS)

16

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Remembering Digos City’s 1989 gruesome massacre DAVAO CITY – Thirty-one years have passed and by houses.

She cannot describe her anguish when she saw yet the June 25, 1989 gruesome massacre is forever engraved in the heart and mind of Helen the lifeless body of his pastor husband who was Dominguez who lost five members of her family beheaded by the communist group. on that fateful day.

“They beheaded my husband. I lost five memA survivor and an eyewitness of the incident, bers of my family. You just don’t know how painful Dominguez recounted the tragedy on a Sunday it is,” Dominguez said. morning (9 a.m.) when people were gathered for worship at the United Moving on Church of Christ in the Marking the 31st anPhilippines in Sitio Rano niversary of the 1989 Barangay Binaton, Digos R a no Ma ssacre, t he City in Davao del Sur. victims were rememShe emotionally rebered through a tribute called that there were on Thursday (June 25), with a traditional 21-gun about 73 people who salute to honor the death were members of the Bagobo-Tagabawa tribe. of the tribesmen.

Just about five minPresidential Communiutes when the fellowship cations Operations Office started, some residents (PCOO) Undersecretary rushed to the chapel 31 YEARS ON. Helen Dominguez, a survivor and and National Task Force informing them that eyewitness of the 1989 Rano Massacre speaks to End Local Commuthe notorious group of to members of the media on Thursday (June 25, nist A rmed Conf lict the New People’s Army 2020). Victims of the tragedy were remembered (NTF ELCAC) spokes(NPA) headed by ‘Ku- and given tribute in a symbolic rite in Digos City. person Lorraine Badoy mander Bensar’ is ap- (PNA photo by Che Palicte) personally attended the proaching. commemoration activity Dominguez said some of them managed to run along with other officials of the Armed Forces of away and go into hiding while the others, includ- the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Poing her family, were left behind and mercilessly lice (PNP), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the city government shot dead by Bensar’s group.

“I ran and hid through the squash plants with of Digos. my four-year-old child and prayed to God that we She said for 30 years after the incident, she be spared from harm. I heard people screaming never shed a single tear every time they commemand begging for help but Besnar ordered his men orated the tragedy except for the recent activity. to fire at them,” she said in the vernacular.

Badoy, in her speech, said the historical injusShe added that members of the NPA went to the tice has come about because of the treachery of houses adjacent to the chapel and killed everyone terrorists who hide behind lies and deceit and who were caught hiding. use the innocent citizens as their shield as they After three hours of the armed men’s killing go about in destructing people’s lives and home. spree, the group went back to the UCCP chap“These shameless bastards have managed to el and started singing and laughing about the clothe themselves in respectability and walk the carnage. halls of the church, of media, of the academe, “Gunfire stopped at about noon, but what the halls of power in Congress and almost all brought shivers down my spine was when I heard agencies of government and are accorded the title the perpetrators singing and laughing inside the "Honorable" while they crush dreams and break chapel,” Dominguez said. the hearts of our people,” she said.

Sensing that the perpetrators already left, She added that the journey from 1989 when Dominguez along with her child stood up and the grave injustice happened has been a long saw bloodied dead bodies. and arduous journey where justice has painfully A total of 38 lifeless bodies including children eluded them and where it seemed like the lives of and women were scattered at the chapel and near- the loved ones they lost on that tragic day seemed

inconsequential and of no value.

“I am standing here to tell you that this is no longer true. We weep with you and feel in our hearts the pain of your loss and the tragic end to each of those lives- innocent children among them whose lives were snuffed out even before they could begin to truly live,” she added.

REVISED... from Page 4

CALIFORNIA... from Page 1

Because the largest share—40%—of NCC goes to the County’s public safety departments, including the Sheriff’s Department, these departments are most heavily affected by the cuts. These departments also receive a large share of the state realignment sales tax revenues, which have declined sharply as well.

“These proposed cuts are not intended to penalize any department, or to diminish the importance of their work,” Hamai said.

“Rather, these curtailments are part of an equitable process of cost reductions that will

affect all County departments.

“Thanks to our County’s long-standing tradition of responsible budgeting, historically high credit ratings, and investments in rainy day reserves, we are in a better position than some other local governments to respond to this crisis,” Hamai said.

“Los Angeles County has always been able to overcome every challenge in our path, and I am confident we can emerge from this crisis stronger than ever to serve the vibrant and diverse communities that make up our great County.”

SUNRISE... from Page 1 reatown, Vernon, MacArthur Park, Pico-Union, and most of downtown Los Angeles, Plata emphasizes that his experiences as a Koreatown renter, Filipino immigrant, educator, and organizer have all been vital to understanding the concerns of everyday people living in this district.

“I’m deeply honored that the youth-led coalition behind Sunrise LA has chosen to endorse me,” Plata said.

“Having worked as an educator, I’ve seen firsthand what youth-led movements can accomplish and how inspiring their demand for change can be. Our youth understand that environmental issues like climate change and pollution affect them and our most vulnerable communities first. I want to fight with them to ensure that access to clean air, water, and—more broadly—a viable future is a right for all, not a privilege reserved for just a few.”

Plata underlines that his campaign is a truly people-powered, grassroots organizing effort.

“For so long in our communities, everyday people—working people, renters, immigrants, public school students and so on—have had such little faith in the electoral process because it has not seen them, let alone served them. What we want to do

with our campaign is say, ‘Hey, a truly deep democracy should be for everyone. What you’re worrying about on a day-to-day basis matters. Paying rent, sending your kids to a safe and well-resourced school, food justice—these are all deeply political issues that our representatives should be addressing.’”

“My challenger was one of 31 legislators who asked to delay California’s transition to emissions-free trucks and regulations of diesel engine use by cargo ships. This is what corporate money does to our politics—it corrupts it. I have no interest in taking political contributions from oil lobbyists or developers. That’s not the democracy I’m fighting for.

What we’re doing is having door-to-door (and now, Zoom-to-Zoom) conversations with people who can never write that big donation check. But for us, a $5 dollar donation from 1000 people means so much more than a single $5000 donation from Big Oil.” Plata has also been endorsed by Run for Something and Our Revolution LA. If elected, Plata would be the first assembly member in the assembly’s 140-year history to be both an immigrant and an out member of the LGBTQ community. He would also be just the second renter to join the assembly.

Anti-Terror Bill to serve justice for Rano

Badoy mentioned that when President Rodrigo Duterte declared the Anti-Terror Bill of 2020 as urgent, he has the Rano massacre in mind.

“Hopefully, this bill will soon be made into law so that this tragedy will no longer be repeated because this gives us, in the government, a powerful weapon to wield so that we may defend and protect you from these soulless bastards, these terrorists Communist Party of the Philippines- New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF),”

she added.

She said it will also move the country forward because the terrorists have gotten in the way of the country’s progress relentlessly and ruthlessly.

“And where they want us to be silent, we must speak out and be the voices of those who were forever silenced on June 25, 1989,” Badoy added.

Meanwhile, the Davao del Sur Police Provincial Office (DSPPO) strongly condemned the terroristic act of the communist rebels and further called on peace-loving people of the province of Davao del Sur to support the timely Anti-Terrorism Bill so that incidents such as Rano massacre will never happen again.

“I urge the public to support the Anti-Terrorism bill, so that these terrorists will rot in jail and justice will be served to the victims of Rano massacre,” said Police Col. Alberto Lupaz, DSPPO provincial director. (PNA)

JUSTICE... from Page 3 employment once out, which leads to high rates of recidivism.

Speaking about the previous day’s Supreme Court ruling that the Trump administration had incorrectly ended the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, Pastor said, “For the last three and a half years, the Trump administration has tormented 700,000 young people who are Americans in every way. We need to center the struggle against the anti-Black racism with the idea of broadening our perspective, so that Latinos, Asian Americans, indigenous folks, and other people of color and white allies can become part of the struggle.”

Marina Gorbis, executive director of the Institute for the Future, likened the United States to a “plantation economy” in which most people are “living on scraps.”

To this end, the Governor’s Office is instructing all state agencies and departments to make COVID-19 data and information publicly accessible, provided it does not include information that will violate privacy.

“California is home to some of the world’s most accomplished researchers, technologists, scientists, acclaimed universities, and leading technology companies. Today, I am opening more California data for them to help inform our efforts in combating this disease,” said Governor Newsom.

“While these models and forecasts make different assumptions, all of them show that individual actions can dramatically change the trajectory of the virus. Our state’s ability

“I’m really hopeful in this moment that in addition to all the racial inequalities and policing and all these things that are now being revealed, that it’s also an opportunity for us to rethink some economic pillars — how we treat workers about what is deserved in this economy and who deserves these things.”

Asset inequality needs to be addressed, Gorbis said.

She challenged the notion that “hero entrepreneurs” — of the sort who predominate the Silicon Valley — deserve greater assets than other workers, and she championed the notion of universal basic assets as “a right, not something you have to earn.”

“We all must have access to certain kinds of essential assets that enable us to lead good lives,” she said.

to slow the spread of the virus and keep more people from getting sick depends on Californians acting responsibly and following public health guidelines. That means wearing a face covering, staying physically distant and staying at home if you are older or at risk.”

CalCAT includes: • “Nowcasts,” the rate at which COVID-19 is estimated to be spreading; • Short-term forecasts, which show what various models predict will happen over the next few weeks in California; and • Scenarios, which show what could happen over the next few months under different conditions.

ROBREDO:... from Page 1 cases so far. Of this number, 9,182 have recovered while 1,224 died.

Based on government records, over seven million also lost their jobs as a result of the varying lockdown protocols which required social distancing and prohibition of mass gathering.

Likewise, Robredo said that such a move to rename NAIA is an attempt to erase history.

“Alam naman natin why it was named Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Where is our sense of history?” Robredo asked.

Meanwhile, Liberal Party President and Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan on Friday said some lawmakers' proposal to rename the Ninoy Aquino International Airport should not be the priority of the government amid a global health crisis.

"That should be the least of our concerns now that we are facing the

COVID-19 pandemic and millions have lost their jobs and are starving," Pangilinan said in a message.

NAIA was previously known as Manila International Airport but it was renamed during the Cory Aquino administration in 1987 to honor her deceased husband and former Senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr. who was shot and died at the said airport.

Aquino Jr. was assassinated upon his arrival at what was then the Manila International Airport on August 21, 1983. He was shot in the head.

Aquino Jr.'s gruesome death intensified protests against the Marcos regime until he was eventually ousted from power after a three-day bloodless People Power Revolution on February 25, 1986. The historic event catapulted Aquino’s wife, Corazon, to the presidency. (MNS)

Balita Weekend Balita, Sat.-Fri., August 18 - 24, Saturday-Friday | June 27 - July 3, 2020

2018

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PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT

Holy Spirit Thou who make me see everything and show me the way to reach my ideal, You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and who are in all instances of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank You for HYHU\WKLQJ DQG FRQÂżUP RQFH PRUH WKDW , QHYHU ZDQW WR EH VHSDUDWHG from You no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with You and my loved ones in Your perpetual glory. Amen.

(A person must pray this for three consecutive days without stating his wish. After the 3rd day the wish will be granted, no matter how PRAYERS GLIÂżFXOW LW PD\ EH 3URPLVH WR SXEOLVK WKLV DV VRRQ DV \RXU IDYRU KDV PRAYER TO BLESSED VIRGIN been granted.

Thanks) God bless (Never known to fail). O Grateful Most Beautiful Flower of-Mt. Carmel, Fruitful - ATE VIV

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Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). 3 Our Father, 3 Hail Mary, 3 Glory BeSay this prayer for 3 consecutive days. You must publish it, and it will be granted to you.- KORY

PRAYERS

To work 15 days or 16 days shift for the facility. (3) Three months experience required. Cooking, cleaning. Good attitude. Call (818) 585-2739. Reference required.

PRAYER TO SAINT JUDE

Most Holy Apostle St. Jude Thaddeus, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the name of the traitor who delivered your beloved Master into the hands of the enemies has caused you to be forgotten by PRAYERS PRAYERS PRAYERS many, but the Church honors and invokes you universally as the PRAYER TO SAINT JUDE PRAYER TO SAINT PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT patron of hopeless cases THERESE and of things despaired of. Pray for Most Holy Apostle St. Jude Thaddeus, faithful servant and friend of O Glorious St. Therese, whom Almighty God has raised up to aid Jesus, the name of the traitor who delivered your beloved Master Holy Spirit Thou who make me see everything and show me the andme inspire the human family, I implore your Miraculous Intercession. who am so needy; make use, I implore you of that particular into the hands of the enemies has caused you to be forgotten by way to reach my ideal, You who give me the divine gift to forgive You are so powerful in obtaining every need of body and spirit from many, but the Church honors and invokes you universally as the and forget the wrong that is done to me and who are in all instances accorded toChurch you toproclaims bring visible andofspeedy help where the privilege Heart of God. Holy Mother you ‘Prodigy patron of hopeless cases and of things despaired of. Pray for me who am so needy; make use, I implore you of that particular Miracles... the Greatest Saint of Modern Times.’ Now I fervently of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank You for help you is almost Come to and mytoassistance in this great privilege accorded to you to bring visible and speedy help where beseech to answerdespaired. my petition (mention here) carry everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated help is almost despaired. Come to my assistance in this great need out your promises of spending Heaven doing good on earth...of from You no matter how great the material desires may be. I want need that I may receive the consolations and succor of heaven that I may receive the consolations and succor of heaven in all my letting fall from Heaven a Shower of Roses. Little Flower, give to be with You and my loved ones in Your perpetual glory. Amen. necessities, tribulations, and sufferings particularly (here mention me in your faith, to see the Face of God in the people and allchildlike my necessities, tribulations, and sufferings particularly (here your petition) and that I may bless God with you and all the elect (A person must pray this for three consecutive days without stating experiences of my life, and to love God with full confidence. St. throughout eternity. I promise you, O blessed Jude to be ever his wish. After the 3rd day the wish will be granted, no matter how Therese, my Carmelite Sister, I will fulfill your be made mention your petition) and that I plea may‘tobless God with you and all mindful of this great favor, and I will never cease to honor you as my difficult it may be. Promise to publish this as soon as your favor has known everywhere’ and I will continue to lead others to Jesus special and powerful patron and to do all in my power to encourage Experiencedevotion Required. the you. elect throughout eternity.

I promise you, O blessed Jude to be to you. Amen. THANK YOU - ARDY through Amen THANK YOU - SHAHELA been granted. Grateful Thanks) - God bless - OMEL Looking for someone to clean and maintain the interior/ ever mindful of thisagreat favor, and6I Bed will never cease to honor you For Beautiful Facility JOB OPPORTUNITIES? SERVICES? RENTAL PRE-OWNED CARS? exterior of the house, laundry / ironing,SPACES? and general NEWasOR my special and powerful patron and to do all in my power to organization. a Lovely Part of Thousand encourageindevotion to you.

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THANK YOUOaks - ABA

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O Glorious St. Therese, whom Almighty God has raised up to aid and inspire the human family, I implore your Miraculous Intercession.

You are so powerful in obtaining every need of body and spirit from the Heart of God. Holy Mother Church proclaims you ‘Prodigy of Miracles... the Greatest Saint of Modern Times.’ Now I fervently beseech you to answer my petition (mention here) and to carry out your promises of spending Heaven doing good on earth...of letting fall from Heaven a Shower of Roses. Little Flower, give me your childlike faith, to see the Face of God in the people and H[SHULHQFHV RI P\ OLIH DQG WR ORYH *RG ZLWK IXOO FRQÂżGHQFH 6W *Full-time or Part-time available.

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PRAYER TO BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail). O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of

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PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit Thou who make me see everything and show me the way to reach my ideal. You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and who are in all instances of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank You for everything and conďŹ rm once more that I never want to be separated from You no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with You and my loved ones in Your perpetual glory. Amen. ( A person must pray this for three consecutive days without stating his wish. After the 3rd day the wish will be granted, no matter how diďŹƒcult it may be. Promise to publish this as soon as your favor has been granted. Grateful Thanks) —JOSIE

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E ntertainment

Saturday-Friday June 27 - July 3, 2020 Visit www.Balita.com

Sharon Cuneta laments: 'Where is my countrymen’s moral compass?

S

haron Cuneta turned to social media to confess that she is having a difficult time understanding how some people can just hurt others like it is nothing to them.

On Instagram, Cuneta wondered about her countrymen’s moral compass, lamenting how it is easy for some people to utter spiteful words.

“Kay tatapang na nating magbitiw ng 'di lang masasakit kung 'di 'di malunok na mga salitang parang hindi tayo magkakababayan.

Masyado nang tino-tolerate, kung 'di man ine-encourage -- at karamihan ay binabayaran pa para manira ng kapwa,” she said.

Ronnie Liang receives awards from Philippine Army MANILA (Mabuhay) — Singer and army reservist Ronnie Liang received two awards from the Philippine Army for answering the call to fight COVID-19.

The awarding ceremony happened at the 44th Founding Anniversary celebration of the Armor Division recently at the Armor Pambato Division Headquarters in Camp O’Donnell, Tarlac.

The singer accepted the Meritorious Achievement Medal and Disaster Relief Rehabilitation Operation Ribbon for being a COVID-19 frontliner.

He was awarded by Army Commanding General LT Gen. Gilbert Gapay and Armor Pambato Division Commander Major General Robert C. Dauz.

“I would like to share these awards Meritorious Achievement Medal (MAM) and Disaster Relief & Rehabilitation Operations R ibbon (DRRO) to all the men in uniform who answered the call of duty in the fight against COVID-19.

RONNIE LIANG I would like to thank my Army family headed by Army Commanding General LT. General Gilbert Gapay and our Armor Pambato Division family headed by MGen. Robert C. Dauz for the recognition and support," Liang said in a statement.

Since the start of lockdown, Liang was assigned to escort medical workers to hospitals.

Liang will resume shooting for his new movie “Harang,” directed by Njel de Mesa.

He is also part of the upcoming film “Spellbound" starring Bela Padilla and Marco Gumabao. (MNS)

The screen veteran then compared what’s happening to the world of showbiz, which she grew up in.

“Sa showbiz kung saan lumaki ako, sanay kami sa intriga. At alam namin kung sino ang nang-iintriga sa amin. Sanay kaming humaharap sa isa’t-isa sa interviews at sa sagutan hanggang magkalinawan,” she said.

“Ngayon, anumang bukambibig ko, ng sinoman sa mga anak kong may kanya-kanya namang isip, ay pipilipitin at ididikit sa anumang ginagawa o sinasabi ng kanilang ama sa pagiging politiko niya. Damay kami kahit may iba’t-iba naman kaming issue. At ang baluktot, pilit itinutuwid,” she added.

“Ganyan na pala tayo kababa ngayon bilang mga Pinoy. 'Di lang pala chismis. Nakakapagod na rin ang may kaibigan sa isang panig,

SHARON CUNETA habang ang sarili mong dugo at laman ay nabababoy at nasasaktan ng wala namang proteksyon mula sa kaibigan kahit mahal ka pa,” she lamented.

At the end of the day, Cuneta said blood is thicker than water.

“Panahon na sigurong iuntog ang ulo ko sa pader. Para 'pag nakikita ko ang sakit sa mga mata ng mga anak ko kapag may masasakit na naririnig at nababasa, hindi na ako kailangan bumalanse sa pagiging kaibigan at ina. Dahil natural lang naman na ang pagiging ina ang mas hamak na mahalaga,” she said.

According to Cuneta, it is during times like this when she appreciates showbiz even more.

“Mas naa-appreciate ko ang showbiz ngayon... pagmamahal at intriga lang ang haharapin mo; madaling ayusin ang intriga, libre at napakasarap ng minamahal ka ng walang panig panig tulad ng politika,” she said.

As difficult as the current situation is, Cuneta said she is just lifting everything up to God. “Bahala na ang Diyos sa amin.

Siya naman ang may control sa lahat. Huwag natin bolahin ang ating sarili na tao ang may control sa lahat.

Bukas puede magunaw ang mundo kung nanaisin ng Diyos. Dapat ang kaluluwa mo ang sure na ihanda mo.

Ganon lang po. God bless us all,” she said. (MNS)

Sunshine Cruz on ex-husband Cesar Montano:

'May participation siya sa mga bata' MANILA (Mabuhay) — After their highly publicized separation, Sunshine Cruz and Cesar Montano have reached a common ground in terms of taking care of their three daughters.

Speaking to Ruffa Gutierrez in the latest episode of “Love Thy Chika,” Cruz said that her former husband now has a “participation” in looking after their kids.

“Mas may participation siya sa mga bata. They are in touch. Minsan magCESAR MONTANO kasama pa silang nagsisimba. Sabi ko naman sa mga bata, kung ano man ang mga nangyari noon, hindi naman ibig sabihin noon hindi na kayo mahal ng tatay niyo. Kahit anong mangyari, tatay niyo pa rin iyan,” she said.

Cruz, however, was not ashamed to admit that she had a hard time recovering from their separation.

“Wala naman kasing ibang sasanda-

SUNSHINE CRUZ

lan 'yung tatlong anak ko kung 'di ako lang. Kapag pinakita ko na weak ako, panghihinaan din sila ng loob. Kailangan talaga magpakananay at tibayan ko ang kalooban ko,” she said.

“Yes, nag-iiiyak pa rin ako. There was a time na nalungkot ako ng sobra sobra pero binigyan ko ng expiration date 'yung pagdadalamhati at pagiging malungkot ko kasi hindi naman pwedeng habangbuhay na ganun. Kawawa 'yung mga bata. Sila 'yung naging inspiration ko para makabangon,” she added.

After everything that happened, Cruz said it is the welfare of their children that is of paramount importance.

“Annulled naman na kami ni Cesar.

May ibang buhay na siya. Same with us. Ang importante talaga dito 'yung kaligayahan talaga and kapakanan ng mga anak namin,” she said.

Cruz petitioned for the annulment of her marriage to Montano in 2014, a year after she separated from the actor following allegations of infidelity. She shared about the court’s favorable decision in April 2019. (MNS)

Matteo Guidicelli recalls how he decided to propose to Sarah Geronimo MANILA (Mabuhay) — “How do you just know?”

T h i s was the que s t ion running through Matteo Guidicelli’s mind before he asked Sarah Geronimo to marry him.

While he always knew he wanted to be with Geronimo for the rest of his life, Guidicelli admitted in an interview with

Catholic lay preacher and minister Bo Sanchez that he didn’t know the right time to propose.

“Before I got married, I would always ask people, ‘How do you know when the time is right to propose? How do you know?’

They would always tell me, ‘Matteo you would just know.’ A year ago or a few years ago, sabi ko, ‘Okay you will just know. You will just know,’” he shared.

Although he loves Geronimo, Guidicelli said he was looking for that “just know” for quite a while.

“We were together for six

years. Sabi ko I really love this girl. I want to be with her for the rest of my life but siyempre there were still doubts in my heart na how do you take this leap of faith? I’m gonna be separated from my family. I’m not gonna be with them anymore.

I will start my own family. I want to do that but did I have the courage to do that?” he said.

This was his thinking until the unexplainable feeling of certainty just came to him one day.

“I just knew. I don’t understand why. I always knew [that I want to be with her], that’s why

our relationship lasted for six years with all the challenges.

But there was this day where I just knew [I wanted to marry her],” he said.

Guidicelli said that was only the time he took more steps to plan his proposal.

“It just hit me. Is that God working? Maybe,” he quipped.

Guidicelli and Geronimo secretly tied the knot last February 20.

Four months into their marriage, Guidicelli said he and Geronimo are living the best days of their lives. (MNS)

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Saturday-Friday | June 27 - July 3, 2020

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Jennylyn Mercado makes stand against rape culture in PH

Janine Gutierrez explains why speaking up matters MANILA (Mabuhay) — Actress Janine Gutierrez took to social media to emphasize how each person’s voice is important to keep democracy alive in the Philippines.

This, after she received some comments urging her to stop meddling with political issues.

Re ach i ng out to others who get the same comments, GutJANINE GUTIERREZ ierrez said: “Pls don't be swayed. It's your right as a Filipino to speak up, question and be involved. I will keep repeating THAT YOUR VOICE MATTERS.” Gutierrez then further explained why she believes speaking up is important.

“Kahit ano pa ang trabaho mo o kahit naiiba ang paniniwala mo sa nakararami, una sa lahat, Pilipino ka. May karapatan ka at may responsibilidad ka. Stay informed. Speak,” she said.

And as for those who “promote this culture of silence,” she said: “You're killing our democracy.”

Gutierrez has been one of the celebrities who have been using their platforms to campaign for what they believe in.

Last Independence Day, she and her siblings joined the rally at the University of the Philippines calling for the junking of the controversial Anti-Terrorism bill.

Visit www.Balita.com

M

ore people on social media are making a stand against rape culture in the country, including actress Jennylyn Mercado.

(MNS)

In a Facebook post, Mercado lamented how it has become common for other people to fault the rape victim.

“Nakaugalian na ng ibang tao sisihin ang isang rape victim. Kasalanan daw nila dahil sa galaw o suot nila.

Pasensya na po, but this thinking is backwards,” she said.

The actress also emphasized that “rape exists be-

Sarah G's 'Tala' is now the most viewed OPM music video on YouTube

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Popsters, celebrate!

"Tala," the hit song of Sarah Geronimo, is now the the most viewed OPM music video after it reached 141 million views on YouTube.

The good news was shared

by VIVA Artists Agency.

"Congratulations to the one and only Asia’s Popstar Royalty, Sarah Geronimo because her hit song 'Tala' has reached 141 million views and it’s now the ‘Most Viewed OPM Music Video’ on YouTube," it said.

It was only last February

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cause of rapists.”

“Paano ninyo mairarason ang mga biktima na mga bata at matanda na hindi naman nakasuot ng sinsabing ‘sexy na pananamit’? Walang pamantayan ng pananamit ang rape at sexual harassment,” Mercado said.

“No. You don’t blame the victim for choosing to be ‘malandi’ in your eyes. For choosing to wear revealing

outfits. For choosing to put herself in a dangerous position. For being at the wrong place and time (madilim na lugar at gabi),” she added.

For Mercado, there is no reason that can justify a person getting sexually assaulted and no excuse for the assailant to commit the act.

“Blame the person who chose and chooses to rape her,” she said. (MNS)

SARAH GERONIMO

when "Tala" passed 100 million views.

"Tala," which debuted in 2016, was composed by Nica del Rosario, while Georcelle Dapat-Sy of G-Force came up with the choreography.

The routine, that spawned thousands of covers, is filled with fun moves, including a fast wiggle as the song enters its chorus that many Filipinos tried to nail in their own versions.

"Tala" was part of Geronimo's album "The Great Unknown." (MNS)

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