Weekend Balita- March 28, 2020 by Balita Media, Inc

LOS ANGELES EDITION

How a brave Covid-19 frontliner left a legacy of selfless service PAGE 22

VOL. XXIX NO. 13

TOP STORIES Global News

Quarantine extension, military control ‘all fake news,’ says CabSec Nograles 8  Firms may use 50% of workforce for food production, distribution — gov’t task force 10  DBM OKs cash allocation for mid-year bonus, Q2 salaries of gov’t workers 10  AFP chief Santos tested positive for COVID-19 – Lorenzana 9  Pacquiao told by barangay to stay home after Koko presence at party 9 

March 28 - April 3, 2020

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

“SAFER AT HOME” COULD STAY IN PLACE UP TO MAY - GARCETTI By ABNER GALINO

LOS ANGELES Mayor Eric Garcetti recently told Business Insider that the city’s “Safer At Home” order is likely to stay in effect until the month of May or about two months from now.

Sections

DELISH. Ways with (canned) sardines 12  BUSINESS. Peso keeps ground, stocks slip on Covid-19 scare 20  ENTERTAINMENT. Iza Calzado confined for pneumonia, tested for COVID-19 15  HEALTH & FAMILY. Experts warn against poor eating habits during quarantine 17  FEATURE. CatPH fashion designers make PPEs, masks for healthcare workers 22  TRAVEL. Immigration bureau temporarily allows foreigners with visas to leave without ACR I-Card 19 

The mayor was apparently reacting to US President Donald Trump’s tweet and live T V pronouncement wherein the latter said he would “love to have it (economy) open by Easter.” But Garcetti said leaders who don’t heed the advise of health professionals who are generally against premature lifting of social restrictions are putting the lives of people at risk. “This will not kill most of us,” Garcetti noted.“It will kill a lot more people than we’re used to dying around us.” “It will be our friends. It will be our family. It will be people who we love dearly.” “And everything I do is through that lens,” Garcetti said.

Policemen deploy COVID-19 alert signs for the people strolling around the Manhattan Beach pier on the ﬁrst day of the Safer At Home order. Photos by Abner Galino, Tony Garcia and Katie Ortiz

LA CITY PARKS ARE CLOSED

Scenes on the premises of the Filipino restaurants and the Seafood City supermarket at the Eagle Rock Plaza in Los Angeles on the 2nd day of “Safer At Home” order.

Outdoor sports amenities at parks and recreation facilities throughout the City of Los Angeles have been closed to the public. “SAFER AT HOME”

LA County COVID-19 News Updates

Public urged to support community with donations THE elderly, unhoused, undocumented and those with underlying health conditions are disproportionately affected and more likely to face extreme hardship related to COVID-19. There is a great need to meet the growing demand for help. “Disasters disproportionately strain low-income communities,” said Kevin McGowan, Director of the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management. “Single heads of household, the elderly and many others immediately feel the burden and have to find ways to deal with the consequences. Our County’s Center for Strategic Partnerships is working with the philanthropic community to help harness resources for those most in need. Philanthropy stepped up immediately, with passion and coordination, and we are grateful.” “We are doing this together, and now is the time for communities themselves to look at who needs help and provide as much PUBLIC

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Bioscience fund could fuel COVID-19 testing & vaccine As the COVID-19 death toll tops 1,000 in the United States and 21,000 globally, Los Angeles County is poised as a potential leader investing in solutions to the pandemic. Los Angeles County, home to more than 10 million residents, has suﬀered like other parts of the country with a shortage of tests and a lack of a

vaccine. As of Wednesday, 6,300 people had been tested in L.A. County, according to Public Health Director Dr. Barbara Ferrer. “I want to remind all of us that in these times that are less than ideal, we don’t have all the testing we wish we had," said Dr. Ferrer.

But that may change thanks to the County’s ﬁrst Bioscience Fund and a potential public private partnership with bioscience investment firm MarsBio and Curative, a Los Angeles based company hoping to increase Coronavirus testing to 10,000 per day by next week with drive-through testing. BIOSCIENCE

Number of recovered Philippine COVID-19 cases climbs to 31 M A NIL A , M ar c h 2 8 (Mabuhay) — Patients who recovered from the coronavirus disease 2 0 1 9 (C O V I D -1 9) in t he Phi lippines rose to 31 with three new recoveries, the Department of Health (DOH) said Friday. According to data from the DOH, among

those who recovered wa s pat ient 4 - a 48-year-old Filipino from Taguig City with travel history to Japan. The patient started developing symptoms on March 3 and was conﬁrmed positive for COVID-19 on March 5. He was d ischarged on March 19 and was NUMBER

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Galvez gives broad outline on gov't COVID-19 action plan MANILA, March 28 (Mabuhay) — Presidential Peace Adviser and recently appointed Chief Implementer of the National Action Plan (NAP) against COVID-19 Carlito Galvez Jr. on Friday presented a broad, but short on speciﬁcs, outline of the government's strategy to address the illness' impact on the country. In a Friday statement, Galvez explained that NAP was a “Whole-OfGALVEZ

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Photos by Abner Galino, Tony Garcia and Katie Ortiz

“SAFER AT HOME”... FROM PAGE 1 Garcetti said authorities have seen “unsafe crowds for outdoor activities during this emergency. “Angelenos are safer at home right now. When we go out for fresh air and exercise, it should be in our own neighborhoods and at a safe distance from other people,” he said. The closure order include skate parks, tennis courts, baseball ﬁelds, and basketball courts. Parks still remain open for walking or running; however, when at a park for any reason, Angelenos must maintain a distance of at least six feet between individuals at all times. Restrooms accessible to the outdoors will remain open during regular operating hours. The Mayor had previously announced the closure of Runyon Canyon, Bronson Canyon, and the Venice Pier, as well as all City recreation centers, golf courses, aquatic facilities, and beach parking lots. All recreation centers, senior centers, and playgrounds are also closed, and all recreation and cultural programming, indoor and outdoor sports leagues, aquatics classes, instructional courses, and group sessions have been cancelled. Griﬃth Park amenities are closed as well — including the Observatory, Travel Town and Train Rides, Pony Rides and the Merry Go Round — along with the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, the Sherman Oaks Castle, and

BE COUNTED

Saturday-Friday | March 28 - April 3, 2020

A FAVORITE spot for Filipino American anglers in Oxnard has been closed.

the EXPO Center.

RESTRICTIONS ON EVICTION, MORATORIUM ON WATER AND POWER SHUTOFFS

CUSTOMERS wait for their respective turns to shop inside a Ralph’s outlet in Santa Monica.

Garcetti has issued an emergency order strengthening protections for residential tenants, among them; a moratorium on LADWP shutoffs for non-payment would be extended indefinitely. Last week, Garcetti issued emergency moratoriums on evictions of residential and commercial tenants in the City of Los Angeles during the local emergency period if the tenant is able to show an inability to pay rent due to circumstances related to the COVID-19 pandemic. He has extended all previously issued emergency orders to April 19, 2020, including previously announced tenant protections. “Residential tenants in the City of Los Angeles may not be evicted during the declared emergency in the City of Los Angeles if the eviction is a ‘no-fault eviction’ and any member of the household is ill, in isolation, or under quarantine. Under this Order, a ‘no-fault eviction’ means any eviction for which the notice to terminate tenancy is not based on an alleged fault of the tenant, including without limitation, eviction notices served under California Code of Civil Procedure sections 1161(1), 1161(5), or 1161c.” The order also provides tenant protections against Ellis Act evictions, stating: “No party in the City of Los Angeles may remove occupied residential units from the rental market under the Ellis Act while this Order is in effect. Tenancies

SER CONTADOS

MABILANG

Եղեք Հաշվառված

may not be terminated under the Ellis Act until 60 days after the expiration of this Order.” “This Order applies to nonpayment eviction notices, no-fault eviction notices, and unlawful detainer actions based on such notices, served or filed on or after the date on which a local emergency was proclaimed. Nothing in this Order shall be construed to mean that the tenant will not still be obligated to pay lawfully charged rent.” The Mayor also announced that an LADWP moratorium on water and power shutoffs will extend through the end of the local emergency period. To assist both residents and businesses during the emergency period, the Mayor’s order allows restaurants to sell alcoholic beverages for delivery or takeout — and relaxes certain parking restrictions on commercial vehicles during the locally declared emergency. The order modified any and all City of Los Angeles regulations governing the sale of alcoholic beverages to “allow (i) sales of alcoholic beverages by restaurants for off-site consumption are hereby permitted for delivery and take-out and (ii) sales, by retail stores, of alcoholic beverages for off-site consumption, including deliveries and extended sales hours, from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily. “This Order does not waive, suspend or amend any regulations promulgated by the State, including those under the authority of the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control; nor does it suspend or supersede existing prohibitions against drinking in public and similar regulations pertaining to public consumption and possession CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

세다

Bakit Mahalaga ang Census Bawat 10 taon, ang mga tao sa kabuuan ng bansa at sa California ay sasagot sa Census para magkaroon ng wastong bilang ng lahat ng tao sa Estados Unidos. Ang 2020 Census ay makakatulong sa pagpapasya kung paano aabot ang bilyun-bilyong dolyar sa ating mga pamilya. Ang sagot ninyo sa Census ay makakatulong sa pagpasya ng pagpopondo sa mga maraming programa na nagbibigay ng mga mahalagang mapagkukunan sa ating komunidad, kabilang ang mga paaralan, mga programa sa pangangalaga ng bata, mga pruyekto sa

KABILING AND

pagpapanatili ng mga kalsada, at mga programa sa panlipunang tulong.

Ito ay Ligtas at Kumpidensyal Ang impormasyon na nakolekta sa 2020 Census ay hindi maaaring ipabahagi o gamitin laban sa iyo sa anumang paraan. Ang iyong impormasyon ay gagamitin lamang para gumawa ng mga istatistika, hindi maaaring ipabahagi sa imigrasyon o sa mga ahensya sa pagpapatupad ng batas, at hindi maaaring

Tinutukoy ng U.S. Census ang pederal na pondo para sa mga mahalagang

serbisyo ng komunidad na tumutulong sa pagsuporta sa ating mga pamilya,

gamitin bilang batayan ng iyong kwalipikasyon sa mga benepisyo ng gubyerno. Ang iyong privacy at katiwasayan ay lubhang pinapahalagahan.

at tinutukoy nito ang ating patas na bahagi sa representasyon sa California

Timeline ng Census

at Washington D.C. Ang susunod na Census ay sa Spring 2020. Tiyakin natin na ang lahat ng naninirahan sa Glendale ay kabilang para magamit natin ang mga resources na ito sa kabutihan ng ating sariling komunidad!

For more information Para más información Para sa karagdagang impormasyon Հավելյալ տեղեկությունների համար 자세한 내용은

GlendaleCounts.com  (818) 548-4844

Marso 12-20

Marso 16-24

Ipinadala Mga ang mga Paalalang Imbitasyon Sulat

Marso 26 - Abril 3

Abril 1

Abril 8-16

Abril 20-27

Paalalang Postcard

Araw ng Census

Ipinadala sa Koreo ang Hard copy Census

Ipinadala sa koreo ang panghuling Postcards

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Saturday-Friday | March 28 - April 3, 2020

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Pacific Islanders urge community to step up to Census 2020 Get counted. Identify your roots and safeguard your future, advocates agree By MARK HEDIN Ethnic Media Services DESPITE everyone’s preoccupation with the CORVID-19 pandemic, more than a dozen Paciﬁc Islander activists and media representatives gathered in San Mateo March 14 to discuss plans for the 2020 Census, just getting underway that week. They were joined online and over the airwaves by almost a hundred more people -- various voices from the “Coconut Wireless” – who watched, listened and added their own perspectives. “They [government officials] need to see us. We pay our taxes, we pay our dues,” said Nackie Moli, of Poly by Design, who described herself as a “proud Samoan woman.” She’s excited to promote the census in her work with Island Block Radio, heard, she said, from Alaska to Mexico. “We all need to be counted.” C e n s u s d at a p e r me at e s U. S . society. According to one expert, it directs $1.5 trillion in annual federal spending (https://tinyurl.com/CensusdrivenSpending) on health care, education and development, and more, in hundreds of government programs and projects. Addressing the role of census data in supporting education, Manuafou Liaiga Anoa’i, of the Jeﬀerson School District Board of Trustees in San Mateo said: “Empowering others -- that’s census. Education in a classroom? That has to be funded. We have to continue to give our future generations more resources. “We are an invisible community, but we don’t have that poverty mind-set. We continue to be warriors.” Speaker after speaker addressed the battle to further distinguish Pacific Islander identity and the importance of “disaggregating” it from its current place as a subset of the Asian American population in the census.

The Pacific Islander community is highly diverse, but for most of its history, there have been few ways to specify origins on the census: Someone who identifies as “Asian or Pacific Islander” could also check boxes for Chinese, Filipino, Korean, Vietnamese, Japanese, Asian Indian, Hawaiian, Samoan, Guamanian or “Other API.” And then, “Other API” offered a writein box for more detail – Tongan, perhaps, or Fijian, or something else. In 2000, “or Chamorro” was added to the Guamanian choice, and for the first time, “Other Pacific Islander” appeared as a separate write-in box alternative Tauanu’u Ve’e, of the Regional Pacific Islander Task Force, stressed that it’s important for their communities that people specify their island of origin when filling out the 2020 census questionnaire. to “Other Asian.” According to the 2010 Census, the total U.S. Native Hawaiian for the next decade of government Islander 177%, Yapese 177%, Fijian and Pacific Islander population was 1.2 apportionments. 138%, I-Kiribati 129%, Saipanese 117%, million, more than half living either “Climate refugees are going to gravitate Palauan 115%, Papua New Guinean 86%, in Hawaii or California. By 2018, that to where their communities already are. Tokelauan, 61%. number had grown to 1.4 million, Those populations are going to increase “We see the truth in climate change. still largely in Hawaii and California, because people will have nowhere else to East Palo Alto is, in majority, on a flood according to estimates presented by go,” Aumavae said. plain,” pointed out East Palo Alto native Alisi Tulua, of One East Palo Alto and Finau Tovio, of the College of San and College of San Mateo student Shaana OCPICA. Mateo’s MANA program, added, “Our Uhilamoelangi. “We’re seeing a big influx With a fast-grow ing inf lu x in Tonga is our churches, community from the South Pacific.” populations from Micronesia, the leaders, ancestors.” “It’s so important to be heard and fairly Caroline Islands and other equatorial Between the 2000 and 2010 censuses, represented,” said Sonya Logman, of climes, the United States is seeing some t he number of people check ing the California census office. The state of the first refugees of climate change Guamanian or Chamorro increased government dedicated $187.2 million and sea rise. 60%, Samoan grew 38%, and Native toward ensuring a complete count of its “The migration is inevitable,”said Epi Hawaiian 31%, Tulua said. Also, people people. “We’re in a league of our own,” Aumavae, of Samoan Solutions. “When who checked “Other Pacific Island” and she said. you have nowhere to live, you have to wrote in “Tongan” increased 55% and To reinforce that message, Aumavae move. That’s the reality.” “Tahitian” write-ins increased 53%. urged meeting participants and listeners: And it’s all the more reason for But other Oceanic populations “Make phone calls with your families, communities to be sure they’re included demonstrated even more dramatic have conversations with relatives, in the census this year, she said, because growth: Chuukese were up 544%, because we’re not going to be able to do those communities will continue to Solomon Islanders 388%, Kosraeen it face to face. Please, write your island grow and need resources. The numbers 301%, Marshallese, 237%, Carolinian in so it tells this administration and counted this year will be the basis 201%, Pohnpeian, 194%, Mariana whoever’s next that we’re here.”

“SAFER AT HOME”... FROM PAGE 2 of alcohol. Alcoholic beverages sold under this Order must be sold in containers that are fully sealed in a manner designed to prevent consumption without removal of the lid or cap.” “Parking enforcement will be relaxed and an extended grace period will be given to vehicles owned and operated by employees or employers who are engaged in manufacturing or healthcare activities listed as essential under the March 15, 2020 Public Order Under City of Los Angeles Emergency Authority and located in permanent or temporary industrial, manufacturing, or commercial zones of the City of Los Angeles.”

TEMPORARY EASE ON TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT

From March 16 through April 19, the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) will not issue traffic tickets for a.)residential street sweeping; b) rush-hour parking restrictions and c) non-metered time limits in commercial zones. The agency is also allowing an extended grace period for drop-offs and pick-ups. Abandoned and oversize vehicles won’t be ticketed or towed and overnight parking restrictions won’t be enforced. Vehicles with expired registration also won’t be cited. The city has committed to no parking fine increases during a 60-day period and is extending all deadlines for due payments until June 1.

STILL ENFORCED TRAFFIC RULES

Motor i st s shou ld st i l l obser ve preferential parking districts, posted

time limits in residential neighborhoods, temporary no-parking signs, colored curb zones and parking restrictions for cityowned lots. A nd vehicles still cannot block emergency access to things like alleyways and fire hydrants. “People need to stay in their homes except for the most unavoidable outside tasks — and Angelenos don’t need to be worried about renewing tags and driver’s licenses right now,” said Mayor Garcetti. “If you can do those things online, then you should. But we should keep our focus on staying healthy and safer at home, and think about catching up on errands like these after this emergency ends. The General Manager of the Department of Transportation has been directed to ensure that its parking officers refrain from ticketing or towing any vehicles for expired registration during this emergency period. Vehicle owners shall remain subject to all other parking enforcement restrictions, consistent with state and local laws and applicable emergency orders. “I further direct the Chief of Police to issue guidance to police officers to refrain, during this emergency period, from issuing citations for driver’s licenses or vehicle registrations that have expired in the last six months. Drivers within the City of Los Angeles will nonetheless be expected to obey all other laws; nothing in this memorandum should be construed to suggest that the Police Department will not be enforcing all moving violations, consistent with state and local laws and any applicable emergency orders.”

T.K.O. (Tawanan Kantahan Overload) Upcoming Shows POSTPONED AT Pechanga Resort Casino, we are committed to the health and safety of our guests, and our team. As part of that commitment, we want to take a moment to assure you that Pechanga is taking the developing coronavirus (COVID-19) very seriously. Pechanga Resort Casino announced it will be closing starting on Monday, March 16 at 12 p.m. through March 31 to protect its guests and team members from COVID-19. Team members will receive their base pay and benefits during this time. At this time, we must also sadly confirm that the upcoming Filipino show T.K.O. (Tawanan Kantahan Overload) scheduled for Saturday, April 11 at 8 p.m. has been postponed. Those who purchased tickets will receive a full refund via the credit card used to pay for the original tickets. Guests who purchased tickets for the show through Ticketmaster can refer to their online refund and exchange policy. If guests purchased tickets from Pechanga Resort Casino, please contact the Pechanga Box Office by calling (888) 810-8871. State Public health officials urge that events and gatherings of more than 250 people be postponed or canceled until at least the end of March due to concerns about the spread of the novel COVID-19. We ask for your understanding as these decisions have been made in consideration for the safety of the audience and performers. About Pechanga Resort Casino Pechanga Resort Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the United States. Voted the number one casino in the country by USA Today and rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay. Offering more than 5,000 of the hottest slots, table games, worldclass entertainment, 1,090 hotel rooms, dining, spa and golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort Casino features a destination that meets and exceeds the needs of its guests and the community. Pechanga Resort Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians. For more information, call toll free (877) 711-2946 or visit www.Pechanga. com. Follow Pechanga Resort Casino on Facebookand on Twitter @ PechangaCasino.

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Kalayaan Incorporated cancels Independence Day Gala

Saturday-Friday | March 28 - April 3, 2020

A nn g raciously ag reed to t he cancellation, so Zeny and I (signatories of the old contract) signed the cancellation for June 6, 2020; and smoothly penned a new agreement for our June 19, 2021 gala. At the March 16 briefing, the White House handed out new guidelines with By LYDIA V. SOLIS safety tips that could slow the spread of the virus: practice social distancing that can help prevent transmission of alayaan Incorporated (KI), an organization of community leaders, the coronavirus to others; avoid social and foremost celebrant of Philippine Independence in Southern gatherings in groups of more than 10 California, has cancelled its gala on June 6, due to the outbreak people; encourage the elderly to stay of the, now pandemic, novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). home and away from people; and advise the youth that even if they are young and KI will commemorate the 123rd Anniversary of the Proclamation of otherwise healthy, they are at risk and Philippine Independence on June 19, 2021, with incoming President their activities can increase the risk for Lady Hope Robillos as overall chair of the Gala. others. Her e’s hopi ng t h at K I’s momentous guest everyone will heed those speaker this year would’ve safety tips. been Consul General Adelio “As anxiety and concerns Angelito S. Cruz. Sadly, it about the possible spread could be his last Kalayaan of COVID-19 takes root event in the U.S., as he is throughout this land, and tentatively slated to leave his so much of the world,” says post by the end of the year. the Most Reverend Barry (Editor’s note: Lydia is the C. Knestout, Bishop of current KI president. She and Richmond, on March 16, her officers were inducted by “the Lord is speaking to ConGen Cruz during their us, calling us to a deeper Christmas party on Dec. relationship with him. This 1, 2019, in Monterey Hills, age may seem to be a time Monterey Park.) of fear and isolation, but we have an opportunity to Brief COVID-19 background see it in a new light, as a According to The Guardian, retreat into the desert with a British daily newspaper, Our Lord and to encounter “the first case of someone God in solitude and prayer. suffering from COVID-19 As Psalm 91 says: ‘You can be traced back to 17 will not fear the terror of November, according to the night, nor the arrow media reports on unpublished that fl ies by day, nor the CONSUL General Adelio Angelito S. Cruz inducts 2020 KI officers, from left: Lydia V. Solis, president; Lady Hope Chinese government data.” plague that prowls in the Robillos, president-elect; Violet Mislang, secretary; Archie Calunod, asst. secretary; Nonie Belarmino, treasurer; The virus reportedly emerged darkness, nor the scourge Bituin Villanueva, asst. treasurer; Malou Perez, auditor; and PROs Rosalie Caratao and Peter Ramirez. (KI file photo) in the city of Wuhan, Hubei that lays waste at noon. A province. The first confirmed thousand may fall at our case was not reported to the Board on March 15, and polled their said “the U.S. may be able to get the new side, ten thousand fall at your right, you World Health Organization until Dec. opinion about the cancellation of our 8, 2019; and authorities only publicly gala. As expected, the response on March coronavirus outbreak under control by it will never approach; his faithfulness is buckler and shield.’” conceded that there was human-to- 16, was to cancel the gala and move it to July or August at the earliest.” human transmission on Jan. 12. another date. (Because of that, I’d like to The WHO was first alerted to the express my appreciation to the KI Board disease on New Year’s Eve, according for their cooperation.) to reports, and in the following weeks Thanks also to our Ex-Officios, KI BIOSCIENCE... FROM PAGE 1 researchers linked it to a family of past presidents/advisers Gil Mislang, While testing will help slow the spread startups in LA County. viruses known as “coronaviruses,” the Zeny Sabocor, Lydia F. Soriano, Susan of COVID-19, a scalable vaccine is the only The goal of the Bioscience Fund is same family responsible for the diseases Dilkes, Antero Pagunsan, and Josie De long-term solution to the pandemic. One to stimulate regional job growth and SARS and MERS. On March 11, WHO Jesus for dedicating countless phone such solution is in the works developing a healthcare innovation. Based on the director-general Tedros Adhanom hours offering sage advice and insightful novel vaccine technology that could enable positive economic history of bioscience Ghebreyesus announced the outbreak suggestions. rapid, scalable and low cost production of jobs, the loan to the Bioscience Fund would be declared a pandemic, “the first And thanks to another Ex-Officio, a COVID-19 vaccine. is a promising investment to meet the time a coronavirus has caused such a Bobby Reyes, who as early as February “These innovations have the potential County’s interests in local economic spread.” 27, gave his “humble opinion that we to save lives and lift the local economy development and signals to the financial After conferring with KI advisers, I should take immediate steps to address in Los Angeles,” said Supervisor Mark marketplace that the Los Angeles region contacted Hyatt Regency Orange County the possible effects of the looming Ridley-Thomas, the principal author of is a positive environment for early stage Event Sales Manager, FilAm Ann Marie Coronavirus medical emergency, which the motion initiating the County’s $15 and growth companies in the bioscience Urban, on March 12, about cancelling can lead into a pandemic. If it becomes million contribution to what has become sector. our gala. She assured me that after pandemic,” he added, “it will surely a $40 million Bioscience Fund through The County’s dedication to the lead consulting with her Director re our create a pandemonium in the daily lives the public private partnership. investment would serve the greater “contract cancellation and move options,” of people, most-especially events that “The coronavirus outbreak has created public purposes of economic growth, she would get back to me. are held in crowded venues like sporting unprecedented challenges for our society,” job creation, and healthcare innovation. In the meantime, I alerted the KI arenas, hotels and similar places.” He said MarsBio General Partner Llewellyn Cox. “The County is taking a significant step “As the virus has spread to California forward in acknowledging the value that and impacted our lives and economy, it can bring to the table for ensuring that we have been inspired as the bioscience our local economy continues to provide community of LA has stepped up to face quality jobs needed to sustain healthy, this challenge head-on. We are dedicated vibrant communities,” Supervisor Ridleyto defeating this virus by supporting LA’s Thomas said at the time. world-leading scientists as they look to The Bioscience Fund is just one develop effective and deployable solutions component of a comprehensive Bioscience to push back against its spread.” Initiative spearheaded by Supervisor In 2015 on a motion by Supervisors Ridley-Thomas including negotiating Ridley-Thomas and Solis, the LA County with a nonprofit research institute to Board of Supervisors made economic develop a biotech business park at the development a priority by approving a Harbor-UCLA Medical Center campus; Countywide Economic and Community helping fund bioscience incubators at Development Program to stimulate the Lundquist Institute and at California regional job growth and lift residents State University Los Angeles; approving out of poverty. the creation of “overlay zones” in almost Seven industries were targeted based a dozen locations across the county where on their proven ability to create jobs bioscience commercial and industrial and wealth. Bioscience is the first of the companies can co-exist free of the zoning targeted industry sectors selected by the restrictions that would otherwise make County for focused support. their clustering infeasible; and hosting The motion also established the a series of forums for the bioscience Bioscience Fund that included $15 million industry. from the County to set up a leveraged, The growing industry directly employs privately managed bioscience investment 90,000 people and generates $42.5 billion fund focused on helping bioscience in economic activity in LA County.

“suggested respectfully” that I “please contact the Hyatt Regency Hotel and inquire about its policy in case the Coronavirus situation deteriorates further.” On March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, I met with Ann Marie, along with past presidents Zeny Sabocor and Antero Pagunsan; and assistant secretary Archie Calunod. After explaining to Ann that our request for revoking our contract is due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control; government protocol to reduce the spread of Covid-19 via social distancing; advisories from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and President Donald Trump’s proclamation of a national emergency on March 16. He

Saturday-Friday | March 28 - April 3, 2020

Community

PUBLIC... FROM PAGE 1 support as possible.” Los Angeles County oﬃcials encourage members of the public who want to help those in the community experiencing hardships to make monetary contributions to reputable non-profit organizations or to the funds listed below, which are supporting COVID-19 disaster eﬀorts. • Support the California Community Foundation’s Covid-19 L A County Response Fund The California Community Foundation launched the COVID-19 LA County Response Fund, which suppor ts community needs identified by our partners in health, housing, education and immigration. • Support the United Way’s Pandemic Relief Fund

United Way of Greater Los Angeles’ Pandemic Relief Fund supports L.A. County’s unsheltered residents who are especially vulnerable to the coronavirus, and low-income individuals, students and families at imminent risk of homelessness and hardships due to health and economic impacts of coronavirus. • Support other nonprofits Philanthropy California’s disaster resilience team is coordinating with state agencies and partners to respond to the impacts of COVID-19/Coronavirus. You can search for Los Angeles County nonprofits through this site. • American Red Cross Give a financial gift or life saving blood. Make an impact on the lives of Los Angeles County’s residents and contribute today.

Business and worker disaster help center With the support of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, the Depa r t ment s of C onsu mer a nd Business Affairs (DCBA) and Workforce Development, Aging and Community Ser v ices (WDACS) are proud to announce the launch of the new L.A. County Business and Worker Disaster Help Center. It is a new centralized call center and website providing free, one-on-one counseling and support for business owners and workers who have been adversely affected by the ongoing Coronavirus/COVID-19 emergency. Whether you are a business owner struggling to keep your doors open or a worker who’s uncertain about their next paycheck, L.A. County now has a single location where you can get immediate help, tailored to your situation. You can get assistance from the L.A. County Business and Worker Disaster Help Center in the manner that’s most convenient to you: • Telephone: (833) 238-4450 • Online: LACountyHelpCenter.org • Email: DisasterHelpCenter@ lacounty.gov • Social media: @LACHelpCenter on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram “While we are doing all that we can to slow the spread of COVID-19 throughout Los Angeles County, we know that this pandemic is having an enormous impact on residents, businesses and organizations throughout our local communities, said L.A. County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger. “This Help Center will be a critical resource for businesses and employees by providing direct assistance to those in need,” Barger added. “While the residents of Los Angeles County have demonstrated an incredible amount of resilience during this challenging time, they will not weather this storm alone,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis. “The L.A. County Business and Worker Disaster Help Center is in line with my commitment to support our local businesses, and now more than ever, they deserve our help. L.A. County will respond by providing businesses, employers, and workers centralized resources at lacountyhelpcenter.org to ensure clear and consistent information as we collectively work to slow the spread of COVID-19.” “Small businesses are facing serious financial distress and disruption during this time, and we want them to know they can rely on the County to be an effective leader and service provider as we help our business owners and workers navigate this crisis. The Help Center will not only help them to connect to resources but position our communities for recovery,” said Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas. Joseph M. Nicchitta, Director of DCBA, said, “We recognize that every

person in the County is dealing with their own unique circumstances due to the coronavirus emergency, and L.A. County is rising to meet that challenge. DCBA is proud to lead a coalition of departments and agencies to help improve the lives of business owners and workers in our communities.” The Help Center will assist businesses in determining the applicability of public health orders and accessing state and federal resources, including recent relief packages from the state and federal governments. For individuals, the Help Center will assist with filing unemployment insurance claims, finding employment opportunities, and discovering available County resources. “They can now turn to one dedicated place for assistance,” said Nicchitta. “WDACS and our partners have been working around the clock to ensure businesses and workers have clear, oneon-one access to essential services. This free one-stop shop from L.A. County, easily accessible in different languages by phone, email, and online, will support all affected businesses and workers,” said Otto Solorzano, Acting Director of the L.A. County Department of Workforce Development, Aging and Community Services. “Through this Help Center, workers will have easy access to a number of financial benefits, including state unemployment insurance, as well as job search and career services provided by America’s Job Centers of California. Businesses w ill be helped w it h emergency loans, workshare programs, and individualized assistance. During this difficult time, L.A. County is moving quickly to address the growing need for support and guidance for our businesses and workers.” The Business and Worker Disaster Help Center, operated jointly by DCBA and WDACS, is open to answer calls Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. With the support of our County partners, the Help Center is staffed with dedicated, helpful, and multilingual support. Participating County departments and State agencies include: • L.A. County Chief Executive Office • L.A. County Office of Emergency Management • L.A. County Child Support Services • L.A. County Counsel • L.A. County Internal Services Department • L.A. County Department of Public Social Services • L.A. County Treasurer and Tax Collector • L.A. County Library • L.A. County Department of Public Health • L.A. County Department of Regional Planning • California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz)

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LA County alerts public on COVID-19 scams, warns on fraudulent websites, emails LOS ANGELES County residents are reminded of several fraud schemes designed to prey on the vulnerable in the midst of the COVID-19 public health crisis. Reports of malicious websites, email schemes, and suspicious links have come to the attention of law enforcement and public officials. “Malicious actors can prey upon those that are distracted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and use it to their advantage,” stated Los Angeles County Chief Information Officer William Kehoe. “The public needs to be mindful and careful, and avoid websites, phishing emails, and scams that engage people through false information about the health crisis, and steal personal user information and data. By clicking on fraudulent weblinks, hackers can deliver malware and then gain access to passwords, browsing information, credit card numbers, and other personal information. We all need to stay vigilant.” C u r r ent ly, t her e a r e se ver a l Coronavirus tracking and mapping sites that are actually malware websites. Instead of clicking on these links, cybersecurity experts advise that website users should instead hover over the link to verify the uniform resource locator (URL) before moving forward. Online hackers may also send users emails from fraudulent accounts impersonating official websites and doctors, or offering medical supplies and services. A trusted COVID-19 mapping resource is the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Global Map, which can be found at coronavirus.jhu.edu. Additionally, there are several websites the County of Los Angeles recommends for accurate, up-

to-date information on COVID-19. The following is a list of sites: • County of Los Angeles: covid19. lacounty.gov • County of Los Angeles Public Health: publichealth.lacounty.gov • California Department of Public Health: cdph.ca.gov • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: cdc.gov As residents in Los Angeles County practice “Safer at Home” directives, they are spending more time at home and online. Scammers are also taking advantage of this change in circumstances by reaching out doorto-door asking for donations and fundraising contributions through cash, Bitcoin, or Paypal. The County of Los Angeles reminds residents that they are not required to open their door, and encourages everyone to not feel intimidated by a false sense of urgency to answer door-to-door solicitations. The following is a list of safety tips the public can follow: • Avoid online advertising offers related to COVID-19 • Decline door-to-door solicitations claiming COVID-19 fundraising • Do not click on emails and attachments that you do not recognize • Visit trusted websites for COVID-19 related information Everyone should remain vigilant and take these steps to avoid being victimized by malicious scammers trying to proﬁt from the COVID-19 crisis. If you believe you have been scammed, contact your bank immediately and report the information to local law enforcement.

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ECONOMIC INFERNO

I WOULD like to suggest for everyone to self quarantine please. This is a virus that is everywhere and you might not know you have already. Avoid passing it to someone you love. We are going thru a serious Pandemic and we all have to take this seriously. Hopefully this message below will help employees who needed to stay home some relief: Families First Coronavirus Response Act On March 18, President Trump signed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, the legislature’s response to the COVID-19 health crisis. Private employers with fewer than 500 employees and all government employers must be ready to offer emergency family and medical leave and emergency paid sick leave to eligible employees. Additional information and further clarification on these sweeping provisions will likely be provided in the coming days through federal guidance. This program will become effective within 15 days after its enactment by President Trump and is set to expire on December 31, 2020. Emergency Paid Sick Leave The paid sick leave portion of the Act requires covered employers to provide all employees who cannot work or telework due to COVID-19 related circumstances, with up to 80 hours of paid sick time, prorated for part-time employees. Employees are eligible if they meet any one of the following circumstances: 1. The employee is subject to a Federal, State, or local quarantine or isolation order related to COVID-19. 2. The employee has been advised by a health care provider to self-quarantine

due to concerns related to COVID-19. 3. The employee is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and seeking a medical diagnosis. 4. The employee is caring for an individual who is subject to an order as described in subparagraph (1) or has been advised as described in paragraph (2). 5. The employee is caring for a son or daughter if the school or place of care of the son or daughter has been closed, or the child care provider of the son or daughter is unavailable, due to COVID-19 precautions. 6. The employee is experiencing any other substantially similar condition specified by the Secretary of Health and Human Services in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Labor. If an employee is taking the leave for any one of the first three reasons listed above, the employee must be compensated at the higher of his or her regular rate, the federal minimum wage, or the local minimum wage. If an employee is taking the leave for one of the three subsequent reasons listed above, the employee must be paid two-thirds of the rate he or she would otherwise receive. This paid leave is separate and above any existing sick leave entitlements that employees may already have. Compliance with the provisions of the emergency paid sick leave portion of the Act also requires employers to post notices explaining employees’ entitlement to the paid sick leave. Similar to the emergency family and medical leave provisions, the Act provides that the Secretary of Labor shall have the authority to exclude certain health care providers and emergency responders, as well as small businesses with fewer than 50 employees

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If You Can’t Pay All Your Bills Due To The Virus

AS we face an unprecedented global pandemic that has forced the government to order an immediate lockdown of almost all businesses, millions of people are all of a sudden without a paycheck. And considering the fact that most people don’t have any savings set aside for emergencies, they have an instant financial emergency in their hands.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 from the paid sick leave requirements. Emergency Family and Medical Leave Employees who have been employed for 30 consecutive days will be eligible for 12 weeks of job protected leave if they are unable to work (or telework) due to a need to care for a child under 18 years of age because the child’s school or place of care has been closed or because the child care provider is unavailable due to COVID-19. While the first 10 days of the leave may be unpaid, the remainder must be paid at no less than two-thirds of an employee’s regular rate of pay, not to exceed $200 per day and $10,000 in the aggregate. Employees may choose to use previously available sick leave, vacation leave, or paid time off; however, employers cannot require employees to utilize such leave. The Secretary of Labor has the authority to issue regulations to exclude certain health care providers, as well as employers with fewer than 50 employees, from the emergency family and medical relief provision’s requirements. Tax Credits Tax credits are available to help off-set the costs of the paid leave requirements, subject to certain caps. Employers can file for a refundable tax credit for paid sick leave or family leave—they may seek a credit of up to $511 per day for an employee’s own sickness or self-isolation and a credit of up to $200 per day when employees have taken time off work to care for a child after a school or child care closure or an ill family member. California’s Executive Order N-31-20 in Anticipation of Mass Lay-oﬀs

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Saturday-Friday | March 28 - April 3, 2020

As California employers brace for the difficult days ahead and face tough choices about its workforce, California’s Governor Gavin Newsom signed California’s Executive Order N-31-20 on March 17, shortening the notice requirements mandated by California’s Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act applicable to unforeseeable mass layoffs, relocations and terminations from 60 days to as soon as practicable. Pursuant to

the Order, the Labor Workforce and Development Agency should provide further guidance on the order by March 23, 2020. Under the Order, an employer must still give the same types of notice to the affected employees and government agencies, however the employer is not required to provide the ordinary 60 days’ written notice so long as the employer gives as much notice as is “practicable” and, at the time such notice is given, provides a brief statement of the basis for reducing the notification period. The employer must order “a mass layoff, relocation, or termination” that is caused by COVID-19-related “business circumstances that were not reasonably foreseeable as of the time that notice would have been required. Finally, an employer must include the following statement in any written notice given after March 17, 2020: “If you have lost your job or been laid off temporarily, you may be eligible for Unemployment Insurance (UI). More information on UI and other resources available for workers is available at labor.ca.gov/coronavirus2019.” The Federal WARN Act already includes unforeseeable business circumstances as an exception to the 60 day notice period. Like the Order issued by Governor Newsom, the exception applies to both closings and layoffs that are caused by business circumstances that were not reasonably foreseeable at the time notice would have otherwise been required. Given that an important indicator of an unforeseen business circumstance is that the circumstance is caused by some sudden, dramatic, and unexpected condition outside of the employer’s control, the COVID-19 health crisis would likely qualify under this exception. Employers need to stay abreast of changes being made in response to the coronavirus pandemic and must update policies and practices to ensure that they are fulfilling their obligations under the new laws and regulations. Our team of labor and employment attorneys remain available to assist you with any of the unique questions and needs facing your business. Please Be CAREFUL, GOD BLESS! Ken Go, 1st Innovative Finance Group 562-5087048 CABRE 01021223 NMLS 238636

Saturday-Friday | March 28 - April 3, 2020

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Should I create a Will and Living Trust in preparation for the Covid-19 Pandemic?

THE Covid-19 Pandemic is a scary reality which affects everyone globally and has shut down the global economy. Individuals over 60 years old and individual that are immune compromised are more at risk of having serious complications with this virus. Individuals are dying all over the world in exponential numbers. Although we cannot completely control how our bodies and immune system would respond to this virus, we can prepare our finances and estate in case the worst happens to make sure our loved ones are properly provided for. Legally, there are several ways you can do this. 1. Create a Living Trust If you pass away with at least $166,250 in gross assets and you do not have a living trust (even if you have a will), your beneficiaries would have to open up a probate case before title to the assets can pass to them. When I say gross asset, I mean regardless of how much debt you owe on them. For example if you own a house valued at $350,000 at the time of your death, it does not matter that your mortgage balance is $300,000, a probate case has to be opened in order to pass title

to that property. The same is true with other types of assets such as owning a business, a professional practice, bonds, equities, etc. This is a very low threshold to exceed specially in California where real estate prices, even after the economic crisis, remains in the upper end of the curve among the 50 states. Commencing a probate case is expensive and a very slow process. Someone qualified will have to file a Petition with the probate court to have someone appointed as executor or administrator. The Petitioner's attorney gets paid a statutory rate for attorney's fees commencing with 4% of the gross estate. The probate referee will have to be paid for appraising the assets of the estate. If it is necessary to post bond, the premium on the bond would have to be paid as well. There is also the cost of administering the estate such as selling some of the assets to satisfy the estate's obligations and to divide the estate according to the will or the intestate line of succession if there is no will. The entire process could take up years specially if certain beneficiaries and creditors file certain claims. The probate court file would be public record.

MINDING YOUR FINANCES… FROM PAGE 6 This is absolutely the worst national crisis I have seen in my lifetime and I can’t even imagine the devastating effects it will have on all of us perhaps for years to come. When it ends is uncertain and experts are telling us that it is bound to get worse before it gets better. God help us. Fear can be our worst enemy at this time because it can be debilitating. So, it is important that you take care of your mental health as you plan and strategize for tougher days ahead. How do you pay your bills when there’s no money coming in? Who do you pay first? What will happen if you don’t pay your bills and what can creditors do? First of all, please understand that this situation is new to everyone including all your creditors. So even banks and lenders were caught unprepared and don’t have an answer to how they will respond to millions of people who are expected to default on their mortgages, cars, credit card and loan payments, etc. For now, there are a lot of ideas circulating as to how the government and lenders will address the issue. This is still a very fluid situation, and no one has a definitive answer. From what I’ve seen so far, remedies under consideration include bans on evictions, foreclosures and utility shutoffs. Congress is considering laws that will allow people to have part or all of their student loans forgiven, discharged in bankruptcy or other types of relief as may be necessary to alleviate the burden. Tax filing day has been pushed back to July 15. The government is also considering sending everyone a check although I know that this will barely make a dent on bills that are already mounting. The best advice I can give at this time is to prioritize your spending while taking care of your health and safety FIRST. Without your health, nothing really matters and that should be at the very top of your priority list. How you pay existing bills should not be your major concern at this time. Let things play out and deal with your problems one day at a time. No one knows what tomorrow brings so deal with things as they happened. For now, nothing is as important as food and medicine for your family. Remember that this crisis is keeping everyone from doing their jobs, including the bill collectors who may still be calling. Most courts are closed so chances are that they’re not even able to sue you at this time even if they wanted to. For unsecured debts (no collateral), there is nothing for the creditor to take if you stop paying other than suing you and getting a judgment. But under current conditions, I think that will take much longer than usual. IMPORTANT: If you have secured debts (debts with collateral) such as a mortgage or a car, understand that these are the creditors that have quicker remedies because they can foreclose on your home or repossess your car without having to take you to court first. So, if you can’t make your house or car payments, I recommend that you call them and let them know how you are affected by this virus crisis. In addition to calling, write them a letter (and keep a copy) explaining your situation in order to document everything as I am sure that these creditors are flooded with the same requests from all their customers. I expect mortgage and car loan companies to be more flexible as the government passes needed regulations to ease the burden on millions of consumers. You may not get an immediate answer from them, but I would like to stress that it is important that you stay in touch with them. Although I have offices in Glendale, Cerritos and Valencia, I am only currently doing phone consultations until the lockdown order is lifted. Our law office is still open for business although we are operating remotely. To request a phone consultation with me, please call 888-641-8013. In the meantime, please stay safe and healthy! (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 Offices at TOLL FREE 1-888-641-8013).

On the other hand if you have a living trust, your estate can avoid the entire court system and court supervision. In certain situations, the process may also save you estate taxes which may be substantial if your assets exceed a certain threshold. Basically, you and/or your spouse can be named as the initial trustee of the trust while you are alive. The trustee is the person who manages the trust. This means you retain control of all your assets the same way as if you never had a trust. For revocable trusts, you can later on, at any time during your lifetime, revoke the entire trust if you change your mind. The assets held in your living trust will be managed by the trustee and distributed according to your directions without court supervision and involvement when you pass away. This can save your heirs time and money. Since the trust would not be under the direct management of the probate court, your assets and their value and your beneficiaries' identities would not become a public record. Your heirs and beneficiaries would still have to be notified about the living trust and advised, among other things, of their right to obtain a copy of the trust. Having a trust is also beneficial in case you become incapacitated. The person you name as successor trustee can step up and manage the assets in your trust on your behalf. 2. Power of Attorney A power of attorney designates another individual the power to manage your financial affairs on your behalf. You can limit this power and define what the scope of the power you are giving your attorney in fact. A power of attorney is also revocable if you decide to cancel the power you have given this individual. By giving another person the power of attorney, you do not lose the power to manage your financial affairs. You can continue to make financial decisions on your own affairs. 3. Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare A Durable Power of Attorney for Health-

care allows your to designate specific individual to have the power to make healthcare decisions on your behalf incase you no longer have the capacity to make decisions for yourself due to health conditions. You can define the scope of your agent’s authority. This is also revocable if you change your mind in the future. Your agent will have the authority to access and review your medical records and sign any authorization on your behalf. This is helpful incase you are unable to make healthcare decisions for yourself. 4. Last Will and Testament A Last Will and Testament allows your to designate how your assets will be distributed after you pass away. This allows you to customize how your estate will be divided and distributed. In the absence of a Will, you would pass away intestate and the probate court would simply follow the California intestate succession laws which are in the probate code. Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation. Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes 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, APC is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@ kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com

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Saturday-Friday Saturday-Friday || March March 28 28-- April 3, 2020

CAREGIVERS IN A TIME OF CRISIS Even EVEN in in normal normal times, times, when when the the economy economy is is growing growing and and our our health health care care systems systems are are free free from from pandemics, pandemics, caregivers caregivers are are vital vital to to our our society. society. Neither Neither the the economy economy nor nor the the health health care care system system can can survive survive without without peopeople ple willing willing to to do do the the hard hard work work of of caring caring for for our our elderly elderly population. population. However, However, with with the the advent advent of of COVID-19, are being COVID-19, “caregivers caregivers are being asked tothe do extraordinary. the extraordinary.” asked to Many Many caregivers are sheltering caregivers are sheltering in place in place with their clients. with their clients. FamilyFamily memmembers may be fearful to even bers may be fearful to even visit visit onestodue the theirtheir lovedloved ones due the to possipossibly of passing a disease bly of passing a disease they they may may not even not even knowknow they they have.have. Some Some caregivers, caregivers, working working in in care care facilities, facilities, have have also also been been asked asked to to shelter shelter in in place, place, even even as as residents residents get get sick. sick. These These carcaregivers egivers are are placing placing themselves themselves in in great great physical physical peril peril to to ensure ensure that that the the elderly elderly get get adequate adequate care. care. Caregivers Caregivers may may also also be be facing facing growing growing insecurity insecurity in in terms terms of of wages wages and and may may not not even even know is is coming. Caregivers may notnot have access knowwhen whentheir theirnext nextpaycheck paycheck coming. Caregivers may have acto groceries, and some maymay eveneven be rationing foodfood with their clients. cess to groceries, and some be rationing with their clients. Despite Despite all all of of this, this, caregivers caregivers continue continue to to do do what what they they do, do, which which is is care care for for our our loved loved ones. ones. If If you you are are sheltering sheltering in in place place and and have have to to stay stay at at aa facility facility or or at at the the home home of of aa client, client, you you deserve deserve to to be be paid paid overtime. overtime. Not Not only only is is it it the the law, law, but but the the work work caregivers caregivers perform perform is is fully fully deserving deserving of of

fair fair and and adequate adequate compensation. compensation. California California law law recognizes recognizes that that caregivers, caregivers, and and in in fact fact all all employees, employees, are are entitled entitled to to compensation compensation for for all all time time that that they they are are required required to to be be at at the the worksite, worksite, under under an an obligaobligation tion to to respond respond to to the the client. client. The The California California Supreme Supreme Court Court again again reaffirmed reaffirmed that that point point in in February February of of 2020. 2020. To To be be entitled entitled to to compencompensation, sation, you you do do not not have have to to be be acactively tively discharging discharging some some assigned assigned duty. duty. All All you you have have to to do do is is be be prespresent ent and and available available for for your your client. client. That, That, as as the the California California Supreme Supreme Court Court recognized, recognized, is is still still “work” “work” and and it it is is still still valuable valuable to to your your ememployer. ployer. Therefore, Therefore, you you need need to to be be paid paid for for all all of of that that time. time. Just Just like like you, you, the the attorneys attorneys at at Chaleff Chaleff Rehwald Rehwald Peterson Peterson are are still still working. working. We We have have moved moved our our offices offices to to our our homes homes and and will will not not stop stop working working to to protect protect our our caregiver caregiver clients. clients. We We recognize recognize and and value value the the vital vital work work that that our our caregivers caregivers do do and and will will not not stop stop working working for for our our caregivers. caregivers. If If you you are are sheltering sheltering in in place, place, or or are are working working 24-hours, 24-hours, without without overtime overtime compensation, compensation, please please contact contact our our firm firm at at (818)807-4168 (818)807-4168 for for aa free free and and confidential confidential consultation. consultation. We We love love helping helping caregivers caregivers get get the the overtime overtime compensation compensation that that they they deserve. deserve. We We are are here here to to take take your your calls, calls, and and can can even even sign sign you you up up remotely, remotely, so so we we can can still still maintain maintain social social distance. distance.

This article is an attorney advertisement written by Kevin Rehwald, employment law attorney at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson in Woodland Hills, Ca. 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 and confidential consultation. Or visit us at www.caregiverovertime. com to learn more about caregiver overtime law. We offer a 24-hour chat line on our website.

‘I do not want red tapes’ — Duterte on the delivery of medical supplies in war vs. Covid-19 By MELDA GUERRA

AFTER thanking the Senate and Congress for granting him special powers to address the deadly coronavirus pandemic, President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday night urged for the quick delivery of medical supplies amid the threat of the COVID-19. The President has ordered concerned agencies to "ensure the speedy delivery of basic medical supplies and equipment to help facilities." He emphasized that delivery should be on time and that processing should go smoothly. "From the approval, importation, and delivery — everything must go smoothly to make sure

that we do not waste time," Duterte added. He warned concerned agencies and authorities to not make any mistake in handling the delivery of medical supplies. "I do not want red tapes. I do not want so many questions. Pagka-cinertify ng isang government employee 'yan. I said do not commit the mistake and we will all be happy and comfortable," Duterte said. "Kung gusto niyo magloko, wag ngayon itong panahon na ito," (If you want to do wrong, not at this time), he added. Duterte also called for the cooperation from the public and

other government officials in dealing with this war against Covid-19. "I call on every FIlipino to participate in this war by following the guidelines. I repeat, stay at home. 'Wag matigas ang ulo, the outcome of this war depends largely on you as well," Duterte said. "To my fellow public servants, let us set aside our differences and work in solidarity to overcome this pandemic. We only have one common enemy and that is COVID-19," he added. As of March 24, there are 552 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the country with at least 35 deaths.

Imee Marcos: Bongbong "unwell" but "getting better” By MELDA GUERRA

SENATOR Imee Marcos says her brother Bongbong Marcos is "unwell" after returning from his Spain trip. She also confirmed that Bongbong took the COVID-19. He tested negative. "Unwell" ngunit "getting better at home." This is the statement of Senator Imee Marcos when asked by reporters. Rumors were circulating that the younger Marcos was infected with the deadly coronavirus disease after his trip to Spain, a country that has reported a large number of Covid-19 deaths

BONGBONG & IMEE MARCOS

second to Italy. The lady senator has denied rumors that her brother tested positive for the coronavirus disease and that he was intubated and confined in one of the hospitals in the country. In her text message to reporters, she wrote on Thursday morning, March 26: “He came back from Spain unwell. “Finally got a test two nights ago, getting better at home.” According to a tweet by ABSCBN News, the senator learned of her brother’s condition only from an online group of their family. She also denied rumors that Bongbong was f lown in to a Singapore hospital for treatment. She denied this saying her brother is “at home.” On a separate tweet, the senator also denied that she and her mother, Imelda, accompanied Bongbong to Singapore to seek medical help. “Nah, my mom and I [are] ok,” she said in a text message to ABS-CBN News. Early Friday, reports said that Bongbong tested negative for Covid-19.

Quarantine extension, military control 'all fake news,' says CabSec Nograles MANILA (Mabuhay) — Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei Nograles on Friday denied information circulating online that the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine will be extended beyond April 12 and that public markets will be closed. Nograles also said there is no truth to the information that the country will be put under military control as it battles the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). "Gusto ko linawin, lahat 'yan fake news. Huwag tayo maniwala sa fake news na 'yan," he said. Information regarding a military takeover circulated following the appointment of Carlito Galvez Jr., the current Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, as “chief implementer” of the government’s national policy against COVID-19. Galvez is a former Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief. Nograles reminded the public that all official announcements regarding the quarantine and efforts against COVID-19 will be coming from President Rodrigo Duterte, the Department of Health (DOH), and the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Diseases, for which he is the spokesperson. "Wala tayong ina-announce na any extension [ng quarantine]. Gusto nga natin mapabilis ito," he said. Nograles said the police and the National Bureau of Investigation are "working overtime" to unmask those spreading the fake news and file charges against them. "Hindi na maganda ito eh. Hindi na nakakatuwa at hindi na nakakatawa," he said. Malacañang also earlier denied rumors circulating on social media that Duterte will impose a nationwide lockdown in the coming days to stem the spread of COVID-19. Spreading false information regarding the COVID-19 crisis on social media and other platforms is one of the punishable acts under the new law that gave Duterte additional powers to effectively curb the threat of the virus. However, groups have raised concerns about the anti-fake news provision, which they said could be used by government officials to punish those with legitimate criticisms amid the COVID-19 threat. On Thursday, the Philippine National Police said it had filed charges against four people for allegedly spreading false reports amid the public health emergency. (MNS)

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Pacquiao told by barangay to stay home after Koko presence at party MANILA (Mabuhay) — Senator Manny Pacquiao has been told by the barangay chairman of Dasmarinas in Makati City that he and members of his household could not come out of his residence. In a letter dated March 27, Dasmarinas barangay chairperson Rossana Hwang said Pacquiao has been identified as a person under monitoring after Senator Koko Pimentel attended

a party at the Pacquiao home. "No one including any of your household can come out. If you need something, please call the barangay... We can procure things for you and send it to your doorstep," Hwang said in her letter. Hwang said the measure was upon the recommendation of doctors from Makati Medical Center and by the Manila Health Department. (MNS)

Senator Manny Pacquiao turns over ₱400 million worth of COVID-19 testing kits, which was donated to the Philippines by his his friend Jack Ma. (MNS photo)

Duque agrees with Makati Med: Koko -violated quarantine protocols MANILA (Mabuhay) — Health Secretary Francisco Duque III on Thursday said Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III broke home quarantine protocols when he accompanied his wife to the Makati Medical Center while he was still classified as a person under investigation for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Pimentel was eventually confirmed to have contracted the disease, which has so far infected 700 people and killed 45 of them in the Philippines. CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

PIMENTEL

DUQUE III

AFP chief Santos tested positive for COVID-19 – Lorenzana MANILA (Mabuhay) — Armed Forces of the Philippines chief General Felimon Santos Jr. has tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana confirmed on Friday. Lorenzana told reporters that he was informed of Santos' condition just this morning. Santos' result was released Thursday. The DND chief said he would go on self-quarantine as he had direct contact with Santos. He, however, said he has not experienced any flu-like symptoms. "Protocol says I have to self-quarantine for 14 days," Lorenzana said. "I had close proximity with him on two occasions: in VAB (Villamor Air Base) during the turnover of medical supplies to me last Sunday p.m, 21 Mar, and again last Monday afternoon 22 March, here in GHQ and at the Heroes Hall, Malacañang," he added. Lorenzana is the chairman of the government's national action plan which enforces measures against COVID-19. Meanwhile, A FP has a lready stepped-up its measures to protect all its personnel from infection, particularly those who are still working inside Camp Aguinaldo. Santos already ordered the availability of a military treatment facility within the camp to cater specifically to AFP personnel manifesting AFP CHIEF GENERAL FELIMON SANTOS JR. symptoms of COVID-19. (MNS)

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Palace to RITM: Ensure accuracy of COVID-19 test results MANILA (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Friday urged the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) to ensure accuracy of COVID-19 test results before releasing them to concerned parties. The RITM has clarified that ACTCIS party-list Representative Eric Go Yap is negative for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), saying the mistake was due to a “clerical oversight.” However, presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the “erroneous reporting” of Yap’s test results had caused “alarm and anxiety to those who had close physical contact with him and made them undergo self- quarantine.” “We appeal to the RITM to be more certain of the test results before releasing them to the patients or their doctors to avoid such unfortunate incident,” the Palace official said. Panelo also said the Palace was “pleased” with the negative test result. Yap announced on Wednesday that he tested positive for the virus, prompting top government officials who were with him at the March 21 meeting in Malacañang in connection with the COVID-19 response to go into self-quarantine. They included Social Welfare Secretary Rolando Bautista and Budget Secretary Wendel Avisado and Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. President Rodrigo Duterte had also decided to self-isolate until April 7 because he had been exposed to those Cabinet officials. (MNS)

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Firms may use 50% of workforce for food production, distribution —gov't task force DBM OKs cash allocation for mid-year bonus, Q2 salaries of gov't workers M A N IL A ( Mabu hay) — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said Friday it has released the notices of cash allocation (NCAs) for the operating requirements of national government agencies for the second quarter of the year. In a statement, the DBM said the release of NCAs is “to ensure unhampered operation of the national government in the midst of the coronavirus diseases 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, as well as continuous provision of compensation to all government officials, employees and those engaged under contract of services (COS), job orders (JOs), and other similar schemes.” NCA is a disbursement authority issued by the DBM to cover the cash requirements of the operations, programs, and projects of government agencies. “Also included in the NCAs released are funds to cover the clothing allowance, as well as the Mid-Year Bonus (MYB) authorized under RA No. 11466 which shall be released not earlier than 15 May 2020 as provided for by law,” the DBM said. The MYB is equivalent to one month basic sala-

ry and shall be granted to those who have rendered at least four months of satisfactory service and are currently in service. “The said NCAs are ready for crediting to the respective MDS (Modified Disbursement System) Accounts of agencies on the first working day of April 2020,” the DBM said. The DBM a lso said that Special Allotment Release Orders (SAROs) covering the salary differential to implement the first tranche of the compensation adjustment for civilian personnel were also issued to enable agencies to release the salary adjustments effective January 2020. “To ensure the expedient and continuous issuance and release of obligation, disbursement and other authorities to all NGAs (national government agencies), a skeletal working arrangement in the DBM is in place,” the Budget department said. SAROs and advice of NC As issued may be picked-up by the official agency liaison officers from the DBM-Central Printing and Releasing Unit from Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., it said. (MNS)

Philippines forms panel on economic planning amid COVID-19

MANIL A (Mabuhay) -- The Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases on Friday ordered hospitals to get the consent of confirmed COVID-19 cases for the disclosure of their identities for contact tracing purposes. In an online address, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles stressed the need to get the patient's prior approval in making public his identity. "To encourage the voluntary coordination with the epidemiology and surveillance units of close contacts of patients who tested positive for COVID-19, and subject to the rights of patients to withhold consent, all health facilities, whether public or private, are directed to request for the consent of said patients for public disclosure of their identities," Nograles said as he read the fresh directives from the IATF-EID. "Pakiusap po para matulungan yung contract tracing, paki-ask and COVID patient if they're willing to disclose their identities to the public," he said. The present policy does not allow disclosure of the patient's identity unless volunteered by the person. The number of persons infected with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) leaped to 803 following the 96 new cases reported by the Department of Health (DOH) Friday. Of the cases, 54 have died while 31 have recovered, the Heath department said in its daily bulletin. As of Friday, the DOH has conducted 2,287 tests. Of the number, 791 have tested negative while 691 have pending results. There are 744 persons under investigation and 6,321 persons under monitoring for the virus. (MNS)

Gov't agencies, LGUs told to submit beneﬁciaries to DSWD amid COVID-19 crisis

Lorenzana: No issues over Balikatan cancellation due to COVID-19 pandemic MANILA (Mabuhay) — Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Friday said the defense department has no issue with the US decision to cancel this year's Balikatan exercises due to the COVID-19 pandemic. "We have no problem. As I said we had six months to do the major exercises but we give them the decision to go ahead or not," said Lorenzana. Lorenzana was referring to the decision of the Philippine government last month, to terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) that provides legal cover to Balikatan and other military exercises between the two countries. Under the 1951 agreement, the VFA will be deemed terminated 180 days once one party notifies the other party of its decision to end the pact.

M A NIL A (Mabuhay) — The Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases has created a technical working group for "anticipatory and forward planning" amid the crisis caused by the spread of COVID-19 in the country. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said the new TWG was directed to develop detailed recommendations in the rebuilding of consumer and business confidence and the resumption of a new normal state of economic activities as well as strategic stockpiling amid the pandemic. CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The government's policy-making body on COVID-19 response announced late Friday that establishments involved in food manufacturing and distribution may operate utilizing half of their workforce as the quarantine period continued to be enforced in Luzon. "Establishments involved in the production, manufacturing, packaging, processing and distribution of food may operate at a maximum of fifty percent (50%) of their respective workforces, unless the supply level of a basic food product warrants a higher capacity, in which case, the DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) is hereby authorized to approve the increase of workforce capacity temporarily," according to new set of directive released by the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases through Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles. The directives said that the establishments "shall be subject to strict social distancing requirements." It added that law enforcement agencies and local government units must allow the unimpeded movement of food supply-chain workers to and from their places of work. The food companies are also encouraged to provide on-site accommodation for their workers. The enhanced community quarantine, which imposed curfew in some areas and suspended mass transport, has forced business establishment to temporarily close or operate on a skeletal force, which threatens food supply. The quarantine will be implemented until April 13. As of Friday, the number of persons infected with COVID-19 in the country has reached 803, with 54 deaths and 31 recoveries. (MNS)

COVID-19 task force tells hospitals to get patients' consent to bare names

LORENZANA

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases has approved a memorandum circular on social amelioration measures amid the spread of COVID-19 in the country and the community quarantines imposed across the country. According to Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, government agencies and local government units were directed to submit their existing beneficiary databases to the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The Department of Finance will also be given copies of the databases. The DSWD is further directed to host the database for the COVID-19 social amelioration program of the government, Nograles said. The joint memorandum circular was by the Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), DSWD, Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry, (DTI), and the Department of Finance (DOF). (MNS)

Duterte goes on self-quarantine until April 7 amid COVID-19 threat MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte placed himself under self-quarantine after he was exposed to some Cabinet officials who were at the March 21 meeting in Malacañang attended by a lawmaker who tested positive for COVID-19, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go said Friday. Go said that Duterte would be staying at the Bahay Pagbabago inside the Malacañang Complex until April 7. The senator also decided earlier to

self-isolate since he was in the meeting that was attended by ACT-CIS party-list Representative Eric Go Yap. A side f rom Yap, a l so present in the meeting were top officials of the Senate and Hou se of Representatives as well as Cabinet members

including Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, Social Welfare Secretary Rolando Bautista and Budget Secretary Wendel Av i sado a nd President ia l Peace Advise r C a r l it o Galvez Jr.

PRESIDENT RODRIGO DUTERTE

Bautista, Avisado and Galvez have gone into self-quarantine as well. In a statement, presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte would “continue with his work while on quarantine.” “His only birthday wish is for our countrymen to stay home and the total eradication of the coronavirus,” Panelo said. Duterte will turn 75 years old on Saturday. (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.

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WAYS WITH (CANNED) SARDINES

RECIPES RECIPES // MEAL MEAL IDEAS IDEAS // COOKING COOKING GUIDES GUIDES 1

YOUTUBE

By MELDA GUERRA

SARDINES are a staple in Pinoy’s diet. Not a week will pass without Filipinos consuming sardines — in can. Aside from the fact that sardines are easy on the pocket, they are also quick to prepare. Now that people have more time at home because of the present ‘Enhanced COVID-19 Quarantine’ in the Philippines, homemakers also get more creative in preparing sardines in can — in different but delicious ways. 1. Cook with vegetables. Cooking sardines with vegetables, such as bok choy, bottle gourd, or cabbage, is a healthier choice. Just sauté the vegetables in crushed garlic, chopped onion, and sardines with a dash of pepper and you have a meal in 10 minutes! Served with rice, not only will you get all the health benefits present in sardines but also the vitamins and minerals from the vegetable/s of choice. 2. Add noodles or pasta. The most popular addition to a sardine recipe is the thin flour noodle or miswa called Ginisang Sardinas at

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Miswa. Just add the miswa before the sabaw of the sauteed sardines is about to boil. Turn the heat off after the dish boils. The miswa has softened by then. Serve with steamed rice. NOTE: Aside from miswa, you may use any thin pasta or egg noodles. 3. Make sardines-pandesal pizza. Who doesn’t love pizza? Not us definitely! To make sardines pizza, all you have to do is split the pandesal in two. Spoon some sauteed sardines on the pandesal, top with grated cheese, and toast. A healthier snack the family will love and enjoy. If pandesal is not available you may do it with other breads

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of choice. 4. Try Sinigang na Sardinas. Yes, just like Sinigang na Bangus or Salmon, sardines may be cooked like any sour soup. The method is the same as in other sinigang recipes. The only difference is that the sardines come from the can instead of fresh from the market. You just have to add the sardines after the sour soup boils then turn off the heat. This is so because the canned sardines are more delicate and soft compared to fresh sardines. But the taste is more flavorful because of the added spices in the canned sardines. 5. Make as pasta sauce. In a pan with olive oil, sauté a can of sardines with crushed garlic and chopped onion. Season with ground pepper and salt to taste. Add some chopped parsley. Cook 2-3 more minutes before turning the heat off. Mix with cooked pasta. Top pasta with mozzarella cheese. Serve. 6. Serve as a sandwich spread. Instead of the common bacon and egg sandwich, why not serve your family a sardines sandwich for a change. No need to cook. Drain the sardines first. In a bowl, combine the sardines, mayonnaise, chopped celery, minced onion, and pepper. Blend well. Spread on sandwich bread and top with a slice of cheese. Makes for a perfect breakfast or snack treat.

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7. Toss as a salad dressing. Upgrade the sardines and make a gourmet salad dressing. You’ll need finely grated clove of garlic, drained sardines, 1/2 cup of mayo, 1 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, 3 tbsp of fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, and some salt and pepper to taste. Combine the garlic and sardines in a small bowl and mash until paste-like. Add the cheese, mayo, lemon juice, and olive oil until creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Toss with greens. 8. Fry the sardines crisp. This one is good paired with garlic rice or sinangag. Drain the sardines dry. Dip in beaten egg and roll in breadcrumbs. Fry in hot oil until crisp. Serve with sinangag and coffee on the side. 9. Oh, sardine omelette! A breakfast meal for every member of the family. Drain the sardines. Saute minced garlic, chopped onion, chopped tomato, and sardines. Add some cubed carrot or potato and the chopped green bell pepper. Stir-fry until tender. Lower the heat and stir-in the beaten eggs. Cover the pan until omelette is cooked and fluffy. Serve with fried rice or toasted bread. 10. Just sauté it. If we have canned sardines, the first thing to do is to cook it simple: sauté it with a bit of oil, chopped onion, and crushed garlic until fragrant. That’s it and it’s ready to eat.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF SARDINES Sardines are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Check out below: • Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Omega-3 helps in preventing heart attack and stroke. Furthermore, omega-3 also does wonders to our skin by inhibiting wrinkle formation. • Coenzyme Q10. This nutrient is an antioxidant that can boost the immune system. • Calcium is vital for keeping our bones healthy. • Vitamin D. Vitamin D is hard to acquire in foods, and sardines are one of the best sources of this vitamin. Vitamin D aids in bone growth. • Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) and Vitamin B3 (Niacin). B vitamins are indispensable for a healthy nervous system. Religious intake of vitamin B also helps in the normal production of blood cells. • Iron and Phosphorus. Iron is essential for the production of red blood cell. On the other hand, phosphorus aids the kidney in flushing out toxins.

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Jericho Rosales chooses Angel Aquino spends time cleaning to see current situation house amid Luzon lockdown in positive light MANILA (Mabuhay) — Like everyone else, Jericho Rosales is not immune to the effects of the COVID-19 crisis. Despite this, the Kapamilya actor revealed that he is choosing to look at the current situation all over the world in a positive light. “Kami ni Kim (Jones), galing kami ng Paris so nag-self-quarantine kami ng dalawang linggo and then after that, ito ulit quarantine. So medyo tatlong linggo na kaming nasa bahay,” he began. “Sa panahong ito, naa-appreciate ko 'yung nasa bahay. Nae-enjoy ko talaga na nakakausap ko 'yung mga k a sa ma namin sa bahay. Napag-uusapan namin 'yung mga hindi namin napag-uusapan. Nakakatulong ito,” he added. However, Rosales could not help but think of those who lost their jobs Jericho Rosales because of the Luzon-wide lockdown. He then took the opportunity to encourage everyone to donate to the "Pantawid ng Pag-ibig" campaign of ABS-CBN to assist local governments provide food and basic necessities to poor families unable to source livelihood as a result of the lockdown. “Nagpapasalamat ako na mayroon tayong ganito ngayon. Can you imagine, 1 million families and hindi natin alam kung kailan ito titigil. We need all the support we can get. After two weeks, nagsi-sink in na sa akin na this is real,” he said. “I just want to say na it’s okay. Kung nakakaramdam kayo ng takot, ng gulo, ng lito. It’s okay. But it’s also okay for everyone to understand what hope means, understand what humanity means. This is a time where we can trust each other. We will help each other, we will show love,” he added. Rosales also expressed his gratitude to everyone keeping the Philippines afloat amid the COVID-19 crisis. He likewise urged his fellow countrymen to cooperate with the health workers as they spearhead the battle against COVID-19. “I want to first congratulate lahat ng mga doctors, lahat ng frontliners, health workers, nurses, lahat ng mga kinakailangan lumabas ng tahanan nila para alagaan ang mga pasyente… Bigyan natin sila ng importansya kasi lumalabas sila para gamutin tayong lahat. Pati 'yung mga pamilya nila siyempre nalalagay sa panganib. 'Yung pagtulong na lang natin, 'yung pag-alaga sa kanila,” he said. (MNS)

MANILA (Mabuhay) —Angel Aquino tried to lighten up the mood when she gave an update about what she has been up to since the lockdown was implemented for the whole Luzon. In an interview, Aquino said in jest that she has already cleaned every corner of her house. “Malinis na malinis na ang bahay ko. Lahat na yata ng sulok, wala ng alikabok,” she said. Turning serious, the “Ang Probinsyano” actress said she is using this time to bond with her children which she could rarely do when she has to tape episodes for the ABS-CBN series. “I am so grateful at this time na kasama ko ang mga anak ko 24 hours for how many days already. It’s good. Medyo maganda para sa espiritu din kahit paano,” she said. On how she stays maintains her admirable physique, Aquino quipped: “Tinitipid kung ano ang nasa stock sa ref para hindi masyadong lumalabas at hindi rin masyadong magastos dahil ito 'yung panahon na lahat tayo ay hanging on to whatever we’ve saved up.” As of writing, no new episodes of “Ang Probinsyano” are being aired after ABS-CBN temporarily suspended its live entertainment shows and production of its teleseryes in compliance with the government’s declaration of an enhanced community quarantine to contain the spread of COVID-19. (MNS)

Angel Aquino

Ellen Adarna, in quarantine, flaunts summer bod

Ellen Adarna

M A NIL A (Mabuhay) — Ellen Adarna is looking summer-ready, as the former actress shared photos of her in a bikini. Adarna, 31, appears to have regained her slim figure after becoming a first-time mom in 2018, going by her latest Instagram photos. Adarna, who is seen posing on a high-rise balcony, did not mention her location nor when the photos were taken. In her Instagram Stories, however, she shared the same

view with the the words "Day 6" and "quarantine," indicating her observance of the government lockdown. She added, in jest, that it was the perfect time to achieve her "brown skin goals," referring to getting a tan. Adarna has been on hiatus from showbiz since 2017, during which she welcomed her first child with fellow actor John Lloyd Cruz. The two are reportedly no longer together. (MNS)

No lockdown will stop Lovi Poe from maintaining fit body MANILA (Mabuhay) —Not even a lockdown can stop Lovi Poe from maintaining her fit body. On Instagram, the actress shared a video of her using the treadmill while listening to Troye Sivan and Dua Lipa’s “Sombody to Love Me.” “Make exercising fun! Who said you can’t have a little dance party while working out? #LoviYourBody and keep that fitness routine going,”

she wrote. Poe, however, cautioned her followers to be always mindful if they are also planning to dance while using the treadmill. According to Philippine health officials, the best way to combat the coronavirus disease is to boost one's immune

system, such as exercising regularly despite the lockdown. The Department of Health on Tuesday morning said there are now at least 501 Lovi Poe COVID-19 cases in the country, while the total number of fatalities is still 33. (MNS)

Angel Locsin brings sleeping tents for Taguig health workers, Philippine Coast Guard By LOT ANTAZO

ctress Angel Locsin, is indeed a philanthropist because of her hands that are willing to help. She is known for helping out various charitable causes and since we are now under a health crisis due to Covid- 19 pandemic and Luzon lockdown, the actress along with her fiance’ Neil pooled together their resources to help. After posting a call out for folding beds and pillows, their group of friends and volunteers went to work setting up sleeping quarters for doctors, nurses, and other essential workers in the fight against the novel coronavirus pandemic. Angel is mobilizing efforts to provide sleeping tents for health workers inside or near hospital grounds, in the hope of aiding their situation amid the Luzon-wide quarantine that has halted public transportation. On her Instagram account she wrote: "To my friends in the industry, maybe you can spare your taping beds for our

health workers? Also to everyone reading this, if you have available folding beds that we could borrow, we would greatly appreciate it. We'll name the bed after the

donor and you could also write down a note to thank them for their hard work," she wrote. Locsin mentioned fellow actresses An-

gelica Panganiban, Bea Alonzo, Paulo Avelino, Ria Atayde , Lorna Tolentino and Anne Curtis for "donating their taping beds right away." Detailing the donation process in a video on her Instagram page, Locsin said in its caption: "We acknowledge that this is a challenging time for everyone, but we also know that we, Filipinos, are strong and resilient, especially when united." "We made it through Ondoy, Yolanda, Mt. Pinatubo and Taal eruption, and we will surely overcome this as a nation," she said, referring to past calamaties in the Philippines. "This is a plea to everyone to support our dear frontliners. Let's help them save lives!" she said. In photos shared by the Philippine Coast Guard, the actress and her team were spotted setting up mobile sleeping quarters in Taguig City. They also provided food for those patrolling Lakeshore, Taguig.

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Entertainment

Despite being abroad, Anne Curtis delivers medical supplies to hospitals dealing with COVID-19 MANILA (Mabuhay) — Despite being away from the Philippines, local superstar Anne Curtis has made it a point to lend a hand to sectors heavily impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Curtis, who is in Australia with husband Erwan Heussaff after recently giving birth, initiated her relief project via her personal wish-granting foundation, Dream Machine. Dream Machine, in a post on Instagram, announced that it has donated supplies of alcohol and medical gloves to hospitals caring for COVID-19 patients. The group has delivered 50 gallons of alcohol and 3,000 pieces disposable

gloves each to Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, San Lazaro Hospital, Jose Rodriguez Memorial Hospital, and Lung Center of the Philippines. According to Dream Machine, the four hospitals are the first batch of recipients of medical supplies. In a message to health workers and other frontliners, Curtis wrote: "I just want to say maraming salamat po for your dedication and hard work. I pray for your safety and hope makatulong po ito. May God continue to bless and protect you." Curtis earlier urged do-

Anne Curtis nations for other vulnerable communities through the program of United Nations Children's Fund, which she represents in the Philippines as its National Goodwill Ambassador. (MNS)

Iza Calzado confined for pneumonia, tested for COVID-19 MANILA (Mabuhay) — Actress Iza Calzado has been tested for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) after being confined for pneumonia, she said on Wednesday. "I'm currently hospitalized for pneumonia and so, I was tested for COVID-19 and I've been waiting for the results for several days now," she wrote in an Instagram post showing her in confinement. Even as she remains uncer tain about her condition, Calzado said her own challenging period "cannot compare to the frontliners who have cared for me and to whom I am so grateful." "My heart goes out to everyone in these trying times, especially those who risk their lives every day to care for their loved ones," she said. Calzado, 37, did not mention where she is confined, nor whether she is in isolation as a person under investigation for COVID-19.

Calzado is married to British-Filipino businessman Ben Wintle. Addressing her followers, Calzado asked for prayers for "those who are currently sick and their loved ones, for every person struggling to cope in these tough times, and most especially, for the medical workers who are doing their best despite the

Iza Calzado hurdles." "I count this time as an opportunity to be kind. To be a source of love and light. With the grace of God, I can fight this and we all fight this together," she said. Calzado's testing for COVID-19 came a week after another actor, screen vet-

eran Christopher de Leon, confirmed positive for the disease. He wad discharged from the hospital on Tuesday. Calzado is one of the lead cast members of the upcoming teleserye, "Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin," whose March 23 premiere has since been postponed due to the coronavirus crisis. It 's u n c l e a r when Calzado first showed sy mptoms of pneumonia. ABS-CBN h a lte d a l l it s enter t a i n ment productions, including "Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin," on March 14. De Leon, who stars in "Love Thy Woman," earlier called on his colleagues to undergo self-quarantine, following the result of his COVID-19 test. ABS-CBN similarly urged the series' production team, saying it has coordinated with individuals who interacted with de Leon. (MNS)

What keeps Bea Alonzo busy while under quarantine MANILA (Mabuhay) — Amid the implementation of the Luzon-lockdown to contain the spread of the COVID-19, Bea Alonzo has been staying at home like many Filipinos.

Bea Alonzo However, Alonzo revealed that she is unable to spend time with her family during this difficult time. In an interview on Sunday, Alonzo said she was trapped within Metro Manila when the government declared the community quarantine which restricts among others travels by land, sea or air. “Sa totoo lang, naabutan kasi ako ng lockdown dito sa Metro Manila. Buong pamilya ko nasa Zambales. Hindi ko rin maiwasan hindi mag-alala. Araw-araw ko silang tinatawagan. Buti na lang may internet na at video call. Malaking tulong iyon. May mga kasama naman po ako dito sa bahay,” she said. When asked what she has been up to

while under quarantine, she said: “Sa totoo lang, nahihirapan ako kasi sanay tayong laging nasa labas at nagte-taping. Siguro gumagawa lang ako ng routine araw-araw. Nag-e-exercise ako at nagluluto dahil hilig ko rin magluto.” Meanwhile, Alonzo also took the opportunity to urge everyone with extra funds to donate and help those badly affected by the COVID-19 crisis. “Karamihan po sa ating mga kapamilya ay nawalan po ng hanapbuhay at hindi nila maiwasan hindi mag-alala kung saan nila kukunin ang kanilang pangangailangan kagaya po ng pagkain, tubig at pangrenta at marami pa pong iba,” she said. “Kaya dumudulog po ang Pantawid ng Pag-ibig sa inyong mga puso sa kahit na magkano pong donasyon ninyo, malaking tulong na po ito para makalikom po ng pera para makabili ng pang-araw araw nilang pangangailangan,” she added. According to Alonzo, the Filipino people have been through a lot and she believes the nation could survive this pandemic if everyone would help each other. “Ang dami na nating hinarap na krisis dati, suliranin at nalagpasan natin ito ng magkakasama. Kagaya rin po ito noon. Sa tingin ko, ganyan po talaga ang magkakapamilya, talagang magtutulungan hangga’t makakaya,” she said. In the end, Alonzo encouraged her fellow countrymen to “fight the coronavirus with love and kindness.” (MNS)

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Katrina spends more time with daughter MANILA (Mabuhay) — Katrina Halili is “Ay, oo! Sobra, lalo na yung tatlong anak taking time off from taping her hit after- ko, sina Jillian Ward, Sofia Pablo and noon drama, “Prima Donnas”, now that Althea Ablan. E, parang mga anak na taGMA-7 has stopped making new episodes laga ang turing ko sa kanila so I miss yung while the corona virus crisis is raging on. kulitan nila, naming lahat sa set. Happy “Nakakatuwa kasi I now have more time set kami, along with Aiko Melendez and to bond with my daughter, Katie,” she says. Elijah Alejo. Kahit sila ang mga kontrabida “E, dati lagi akong busy sa taping, so now, sa amin, we're all friends off cam. We all we have more time bonding with each oth- get along fine kaya naman we now really er as mother and daughter.” miss each other’s company.” What kind of precautions and health Did she have an inkling that “Prima regimens does she pratice to insure their Donnas” will be such a big hit that it will safety? “Like all the rest, we avoid going out even topple its rival show in the ratings of the house. Also, I make sure we’re eating game? “Well, siempre, sa umpisa pa healthy with more fruits lang, we’re all hoping na and vegetables, drinking magustuhan ng tao ang more water, taking vitapalabas namin and I’m so mins to strengthen our glad that our prayers were body’s resistance, also all answered. Very relatwashing our hands more able kasi ang characters frequently, sanitizing our that we play and the story household, and even our itself, kaya tututukan mo car.” talaga tuwing hapon from So how does she make Monday hanggang Saturher time more productive day afternoon.” while just cooped up at She says she keeps on home? “Naku, I took this getting inquiries in her as an opportunity para social media accounts as maglinis. Lahat ng mga to when they will air new Katrina Halili clutter na di na kailanepisodes. gan, get rid of them. Aside from cleaning “Sobra yatang nami-miss ng faithful our home, I also cook healthy meals for viewers namin ang show kaya tanong sila my daughter. I always try to spend good nang tanong kung kailan kami babalik. quality time with her.” Basta sabi ko, abang-abang lang at huwag How did she prepare for the lockdown? silang bibitiw. I assured them na mas lalo “Like other people, I also went to the su- pang exciting ang coming episodes ng ‘Pripermarket and bought enough provisions ma Donnas’ sa pagbabalik namin. Diyan for our home. I stocked up on food, water na ninyo malalaman kung sino ba talaga and all the basic necessities we need while si James Blanco as Ruben, sino ba ang staying all day, all night at home. Katie tunay na pamilya ni Jillian Ward as Mayi, also has enough books to read to while at kung ano ba ang gagawin ko as Lilian her time away productively.” after matuklasan kong si Aiko Melendez No doubt her role as Lilian in “Prima pala as Kendra ang mastermind sa lahat Donnas” is one of the most memorable ng mga kaguluhang nangyayari sa amin characters she has ever played in her entire at sa buong pamilya Claveria. All these career. Does she miss the company of her revelations when we return kaya kapit lang co-stars now that their taping is on hold? kayo!” (MNS)

KRIS AQUINO, THANKFUL TO THE PEOPLE OF PUERTO GALERA

By LOT ANTAZO

In these trying times where everybody are staying at home because of the Luzon-wide lockdown, just like the ordinary people, celebrities are no exemption. They do follow also the order of our government. Actress Kris Aquino on her Instagram account recently posted her gratitude to the kind people of Puerto Galera where she and her sons Joshua and Bimby stayed in a private beach resort owned by Wowowin TV host Willie Revillame. Kris is so thankful to the residents particularly who gave them assistance and care while her family is staying in the island. According to her, Puerto Galera made her family feel secured , welcomed and cared for. Kris also offered prayers for the country’s health workers battling the coronavirus outbreak. Her IG message read: “Mahaba pa ang laban, pero hindi masamang magpasalamat. 1st time na kaming 3 lang, kuya josh, bimb, and me… naghanap ng mga kaibigan dito and thank God Alvin & Rochelle found us some of the kindest people. “I praise God, the pediatrician, Dr delos Reyes checked bimb again- upper respiratory infection & bronchial asthma. No pneumonia, no fever, pero matamlay kasi maraming gamot na iniinom. “Tinutulungan ako ni Check & Randy (from willie), ni ate Loida & her family, ni nurse Mona, and the very kindhearted Mayor of Puerto Galera, Mayor Rocky Ilagan. “Sobrang mabait & welcoming ng mga taga Puerto Galera- sa lockdown na ito they have made us feel secure, welcomed & cared for. “God bless you all. I pray for all our healthcare workers. Many have become

my close friends & i salute their heroic efforts.” Meanwhile, as her way also of expressing her gratitude to Puerto Galera, she decided to give some help to the people affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. On her Instagram, Aquino shared that she gave the LGU 25 sacks of rice, which the town’s chief executive allocated for their tricycle drivers.

Kris Aquino “I am posting this hindi para magpa bida -- kasi konti lang ito, dapat 100 sacks of rice pero malayo ako & hindi maka-withdraw ng mas malaki because more than 1 hour away 'yung mga bangko where I have accounts kaya umaasa muna sa ATM,” she wrote in the caption of a screenshot of her conversation with the Puerto Galera mayor. According to Aquino, this is the perfect time for those who have been financially blessed to help those who have lost their source of income because of the lockdown. “Magdamayan tayo ngayon dahil laban nating lahat ang COVID-19. Hindi tama na ang mga kapwa Pinoy ay magutom sa panahon ng lockdown dahil 'yung daily wage earners hindi makapagtrabaho,” she said.

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RITM commits to ﬁnish COVID-19 test backlog in 3 days – Vergeire MANILA (Mabuhay) — The backlogs on releasing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) test results is projected to be finished by the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) in three days, according to Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire on Friday. "Ang kanilang commitment, nakausap natin sila kanina, na matatapos na po lahat ng backlog in two to three days," Vergeire said in a press briefing. "Pagkatapos po noon, we will have real-time test results already na sinasabi nga nating 24 to 48 hours," she added. It currently takes around five to seven days for RITM to release COVID-19 test results because of the previous backlogs, according to the health official. Other subnational laboratories that are operational also aims to follow the 24- to 48-hour standard turnaround time, she added. Vergeire reiterated that the Food and Drug Administration is exercising thorough assessments of testing kits to ensure that these yield accurate test results before being made commercially available. Almost 30 laboratories have also expressed intention to be extension facilities for COVID-19 testing but Vergeire said that these shall all comply with biosafety requirements before being approved for operation. "Itong ating proseso for COVID-19 is very risky. It has biosafety risk. Mayroon po tayong dala-dalang live virus. Kung wala po tayong regulatory measure para siguraduhin na maayos ang laboratoryo at may kakayanan, maaari pong mag-umpisa ng epidemya diyan sa laboratoryo na 'yan at kumalat sa ating komunidad," Vergeire said. The local government of Marikina initiated to set up its own testing facility but has not gain the approval yet of the Department of Health because of issues on the proposed location. According to infectious disease expert Dr. Edsel Salvana, the accredited laboratories in the Philippines have the capacity to process 1,000 tests daily but previous backlogs are delaying the release of the results. As of March 27, only 2,147 COVID-19 tests have been completed nationw ide, based on DOH's online HEALTH UNDERSECRETARY tracker. (MNS) MARIA ROSARIO VERGEIRE

Saturday-Friday | March 28 - April 3, 2020

PhilHealth releases P1.6B to hospitals for COVID-19 response

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Health Insurance (PhilHealth) said Thursday it has already released P1.6 billion out of the initial P30 billion financial assistance to accredited hospitals for COVID-19 response. PhilHealth president and CEO Ricardo Morales said the released amount was as of Wednesday. “Lahat ng tatamaan ng COVID-19 wala silang dapat na ilabas na pera. Lahat ng gastusin, whether public or private hospital, sasagutin ng PhilHealth,” he said in a televised briefing. “‘Yung mga nagka-quarantine sa bahay ay hindi natin sasagutin dahil unang-una hindi naman natin alam ko ano ang ginamit nila na gamot, ‘yung ginamit na process. ‘Yun ang nako-confine ‘yun lang ang masasagot ng PhilHealth.” PhilHealth earlier said said the release of P30 billion utilizes its interim reimbursement mechanism (IRM) which will provide health care provid-

ers with the much-needed liquidity to adequately respond to the threat of COVID-19. The following are the state health insurance agency’s packages for COVID-19: Isolation package: amounting to P14,000 for patients under investigation. It can also be claimed by confirmed cases with mild symptoms and PUIs who tested negative for COVID-19. Referral package: amounting to P4,000 for patients from Level 1 or lower level hospitals referred to higher level hospitals with capacity for quarantine procedures. Moderate pneumonia: amounting to P15,000 for those experiencing moderate pneumonia. Severe pneumonia: amounting to P32,000 for those experiencing severe pneumonia. On top of quarantine and isolation costs, PhilHealth will also cover the cost for COVID-19 tests. (MNS)

MEDICARE TELEMEDICINE

What is telemedicine? Simply put, telemedicine (telehealth, e-health) refers to patient consultation with a physician using telecommunications technology such as video-conferencing. Such method of delivery of health care has been in existence that dates way back 40 years, but its wide use has been stymied primarily by cost and custom. In fact, some Medicare Advantage plan sponsors started offering the technology to its members only 2 years ago and some were charging premiums for its use. Today, with the corona virus crisis, the Federal Corona Virus Task Force, headed by Vice-President Mike Pence, advocates for its wider use. In line with the task force’s containment and mitigation policy, Medicare members who are scheduled to meet with their Primary Care doctors for a regular check-up, may skip this regular face-to-face schedule; instead, members may take advantage of the telecommunications technology breakthrough and avail of the check-up benefit through telemedicine. This new method of consultation may also be available for urgent care needed service. Given today’s critical environment, deciding on this option makes sense. The Medicare member (65++ or not yet 65, but have a serious underlying health condition) belongs to the most at-risk group. The world’s corona virus mortality allocated to this group the lion’s share. This is a fact we can not escape from. Hence, President Trump’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America (to slow the spread) focused on this group in their admonitions. Social distancing. Avoid social gatherings. Avoid discretionary travel. Do not visit nursing homes or retirement or long term care facilities. Stay at home. Even if you are young, or otherwise healthy, you are at risk and your activities can increase risk for others (specially for the elderly). How does telemedicine work? First, get a phone if you don’t have one. Set up an e-mail address. A young grandchild or friend will definitely be of great help if you are not computer savvy. Call your Primary Care doctor for help. Somehow, those of them who saw the benefits of this technology coming may have set up a system in their office. Medicare members enrolled on a Medicare Advantage plan are advised to call their plan sponsors (insurance companies) on how this thing works. Many have included this benefit (free of charge) on your 2020 Summary of Benefits. Member Services phone number may be found at the back of your Member I.D. card. Ms. Sheema Verma, head of Centers for Medicare and MediCaid Services (CMS), is an important member of the Task Force. Try 1 800 MEDICARE. MEDICARE may have established and instituted a communications system recently to suit this need. OR, call 1 855 521 1718 for Office of Patient Access under the Department of Health Care Services. WE are all in this together. WE will get out of this crisis together. If you need help, you may call 323 535 7373 or e-mail at: leo.balita@ gmail.com. Joleo “Leo” Monsalud, RICP@ holds CA life and health license # 0G55218 as well as Non-Resident licenses for Nevada and Michigan. He studied for MBA and Law at the University of the Philippines. He used to work for United Laboratories, Inc where his last position held was vice-president assigned as general manager of a division. He helps Medicare members choose the right Medicare health plan for them.

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Primer on coronavirus testing

MANILA — It cannot be overemphasized enough that widespread coronavirus testing is crucial to contain the spread of the pandemic. In fact, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has urged all countries to “test, test, test” for coronavirus. The Philippines, however, still struggles to ramp up testing due to a limited number of test kits. Under the Department of Health’s (DOH) decision tool, those who have been showing severe symptoms of the disease, as well as vulnerable sectors, such as the elderly and high-risk pregnant women, will be prioritized for testing. Several countries have donated testing kits to help the Philippines combat the coronavirus disease. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has so far approved nine Covid-19 test kits for commercial use. Despite these developments, the slow rollout of tried-and-true polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test kits for coronavirus can be attributed to the stringent procedures to ensure their reliability. Stringent requirements in setting up PCR testing labs

Clinical pathologist Maria Cecilia Lim said there is a “long list of requirements” for setting up a hospital laboratory for PCR testing, noting that such a facility would take about two months to establish. “The current supply of PCR test kits approved by our FDA can be used by a variety of machines but not one machine. A molecular pathology laboratory is a special setup laboratory in the hospital with at least three separate rooms for processing the specimens to prevent contamination,” Lim said. “Laboratories that wish to run the Covid-19 PCR tests must also have a special airflow system in place or else the personnel running the tests run the risk of getting the virus themselves,” she added. Lim said testing requires trained staff and the right equipment for it to be successful. “The personnel also will have to be trained for a few weeks. If someone is selling you a single machine to run the PCR

tests for Covid-19, think twice,” she said.

Diﬀerence between PCR method, rapid test kits She described the PCR method as the “gold standard” for diagnosing Covid-19 infections, but other faster alternatives have been developed such as the rapid test kits (RTKs). A rapid kit is so-called because it can give a result in about 15 minutes, while the PCR test usually takes about six hours. She highlighted that the RTKs cannot help in the early detection of Covid-19, as compared to the PCR method, which detects the presence of the virus in the body even before the symptoms begin. “The rapid test kit, on the other hand, detects the antibodies the body develops after the virus enters the body. It is detected later, usually around the time the symptoms are present and even after,” Lim said. This means that the rapid kits test negative in people without symptoms of the Covid-19 infection. “The tests usually become positive in people with symptoms,” she said. She said the PCR method-based tests are better, but numerous limitations, including financial, restrict its accessibility for mass testing. “The most important limitation is that these methods need expensive equipment and a very special setup which is only available in selected hospitals like RITM (Research Institute for Tropical Medicine) and St. Luke’s Medical Center,” she added. Lim argued that both tests are far from perfect, raising the possibility of getting a false negative result, which indicates that a person does not have a disease when the person actually does have it. “PCR-based tests will be more sensitive in detecting the infection but there are false negatives. This may happen in, for example, the early stage of the infection when the number of viruses in the body is still too low for the test to detect,” she said. “False negatives are higher when using rapid kits. Believe the saying among doctors - ‘if the test is negative, it does not mean you do not have the disease’,” she added. Lim said she expects better and faster PCR test kits to roll out in the near future.

“There will be test kits that will be run on a single machine in platforms more available throughout the nation and require less stringent room requirements. Better, more accurate rapid test kits will also roll out hopefully within six months,” she said. “The target is to discover a rapid kit that can be used for screening everyone with positive test results being sent for a confirmatory test using PCR-based technique. This is how testing of HIV and drug tests are being done in the Philippines,” she added. Validating test kits Lim said while several test kits have been donated, these still have to be validated and tested before distribution. “Donated test kits may have escaped FDA approval but no self-respecting clinical laboratory should simply just use the test kits on patients. There are procedures followed by pathologists who head clinical laboratories to validate whether any test, rapid or otherwise, gives accurate results,” she said. “It means that each brand and each batch of tests are compared with a gold standard test which itself should have been validated by the laboratory using it,” she added. Lim noted that several hospital laboratories are starting to validate their own PCR-based tests with FDA approval. The DOH has also designated some

Experts warn against poor eating habits during quarantine ANKARA — As the novel coronavirus continues to spread throughout the world, people continue to quarantine themselves in their homes, but experts say lack of physical activity and poor eating habits pose risks to their health. “We should keep in mind that a healthy and balanced diet will strengthen our immune system and protect us,” says Vedat Goral, a gastroenterologist at Medipol Mega University Hospital in Istanbul. Goral emphasized that “the first thing we need to focus on while staying at home is actually where we eat.” “Consume your meals at the table. Do not eat on the sofa, in the bedroom or at the computer because you may consume more than you need without realizing how much you eat. This behavior model can lead to weight gain and even chronic ailments,” he said. Shopping habits are also important, said Goral, adding when curfews or states of emergencies are declared, people tend to buy pasta from the market, which is cheap. But pasta is not an ideal meal due to its high calories and low nutritional value. He recommended that instead of pasta, people should consume high-fiber and high-protein foods and vegetables and fruits. Goral noted that among the foods that should not be forgotten every day are Vitamin D and calcium-rich milk, eggs, yogurt and cheese. “Vitamin C, which is one of our most basic health preservatives, has an important place in our lives. As for fruit, you can consume apples, oranges and all citrus fruits.” For those who do not eat meat, he suggested eating legumes

daily such as green peas, red lentils, chickpeas and red beans as an alternative. Stressing that a healthy and balanced diet will not be enough, Goral said this program should be supported with exercise. “We should consume sugary drinks that increase blood sugar rapidly, white bread, pastries and processed meat products that are eaten at breakfast and foods containing excess salt to a minimum,” he said. He also warned about staying away from alcohol and cigarettes, especially during these stressful times. Gizem Gencyurek, a dietitian at Medipol Pendik University Hospital in Istanbul, also drew attention to the risk that stress may cause someone to eat more due to being inactivity. To prevent this, it is possible to follow healthy eating and lifestyle rules that are not really difficult, said Gencyurek. “The first of these is a balanced diet: We should include four basic food groups that we can count as meat, milk, grains and fruits and vegetables, especially in main meals such as breakfast, lunch and dinner,” she said. Drinking water is another important thing that should not be forgotten, Gencyurek said, adding strengthening the immune system is also very important. She pointed out that it is useful to take multivitamin and probiotic supplements. “We should choose healthy alternatives instead of packed, processed and sugary products. For example, instead of potato chips while watching movies, people can eat popcorn, or instead of soda, you can drink milk with turmeric,” she said. Gencyurek emphasized that it is necessary to be as active as possible at home and exercises can be done using videos online. During quarantines, hygiene and sleep patterns are quite important alongside nutrition for a healthy body, she added. She reminded that rooms should be well ventilated and hands should be washed frequently with soap. After emerging in Wuhan, China last December, the novel coronavirus, officially known as Covid-19, has spread to at least 170 countries and territories. The World Health Organization has declared the coronavirus outbreak a global pandemic. The number of confirmed cases worldwide has now surpassed 472,000 while the death toll stands at over 21,300 and more than 114,800 have recovered, according to data compiled by US-based Johns Hopkins University. Despite the rising number of cases, most of those who contract the virus suffer only mild symptoms before making a recovery. (Anadolu/PNA)

hospital laboratories to do the PCR-based tests to increase the testing capacity and decrease the workload on RITM. “If a local government or a hospital owner wishes to set up the PCR testing in their hospital laboratory, talk to the hospital pathologist first and discuss the pros and cons of setting up the laboratory before buying anything,” she said. “The pathologists are the doctors in charge of the clinical laboratory in hospitals and clinics. They are the ones who ensure that the test result a patient gets is as accurate as possible, not only by making sure that there are quality protocols in place in the laboratory, but also by validating each new test kit and equipment in the laboratory before they are used on patient samples,” she added. (PNA)

10 doctors died of COVID-19, PMA exec says MANILA (Mabuhay) — Ten doctors have already died due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) with the reported death of a new one, the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) said on Friday. Dr. Jose Santiago Jr., PMA president, however, did not disclose the name of the doctor. Santiago said that many health care workers, including doctors and nurses, are yet to be subjected to COVID-19 testing. "We are not yet certain na baka rin ang mga healthcare workers natin o manggagamot ay positive din, we do not know, wala pa tayong ginagawang testing,” he said. Santiago said the lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) for medical personnel should be addressed. The PMA president, on the other hand, said the workforce of 84,200 doctors all over the country is adequate to respond to the COVID-19 situation. Santiago said private hospitals in Laguna are ready to open their facilities, in case provincial and district hospitals could no longer accommodate persons under investigation or COVID-19 patients. The PMA prev iou s l y a nnounced that at least nine doctors have died due to COVID-19. T he n i nt h was Dr. Sally Gatchalian, president of t he Ph i l ippine Pediatric Society. (MNS)

DR. JOSE SANTIAGO JR., PMA PRESIDENT

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Understanding virus diseases and how we can all learn from it

ne of this writer’s friends, sent a great informational message from an Asst. Professor in infectious diseases at Johns Hopkins University, which basically describes virus diseases and how we can all avoid being victims with it.

"Virus is not a living organism and there is no such thing as 'killing the virus.' It is a protein molecule (DNA) covered by a protective layer of lipid (fat) which, when absorbed by the cells of the ocular, nasal or buccal mucosa, changes their genetic code (mutation) and converts them into aggressor and multiplier cells.  Since the virus is not a living organism but a protein molecule, it is not killed but decays on its own. The disintegration time depends on the temperature, humidity and type of material where it lies.  The virus is very fragile; the only thing that protects it is a thin outer layer of fat. That is why any soap or detergent is the best remedy, because the foam CUTS the FAT (that is why one has to rub their hands thoroughly for 20 seconds or more, to make a lot of foam). By dissolving the fat layer, the protein molecule disperses and breaks down on its own.  HEAT melts fat; this is why it is best to use water above 25 degrees Celsius for washing hands, clothes and everything. In addition, hot water makes more foam and that is why it is more useful.  Alcohol or any mixture with alcohol over 75% DISSOLVES ANY FAT, especially the external lipid layer of the virus.  Any mix with 1-part bleach and 5 parts water directly dissolves the protein, breaking it down from the inside.  Oxygenated water helps long after

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soap, alcohol and chlorine, because peroxide dissolves the virus protein, but one should use it in its pure form, though it will hurt the skin.  NO BACTERICIDE SERVES it, since the virus is not a living organism like bacteria. It cannot kill what is not alive with antibiotics, but it will quickly disintegrate its structure with everything mentioned.  NEVER shake used or unused clothing, sheets or cloth. While it is glued to a porous surface, it is very inert and disin-

tegrates only between 3 hours (fabric and porous), 4 hours (copper, because it is naturally antiseptic; and wood, because it removes all the moisture and does not let it peel off and disintegrate), 24 hours (cardboard), 42 hours (metal) and 72 hours (plastic). But, if one shakes it or use as feather duster, the virus molecules float in the air for up to 3 hours and can lodge in your nose.  The virus molecules remain very stable in external cold, or air conditioners in cars and houses. The virus need moisture to stay stable, especially when its dark. Therefore, dehumidified, warm, dry and bright environments will degrade it faster.  UV LIGHT on any object that may contain it breaks down the virus protein. For example, to disinfect and reuse a mask is fine. But, be careful, as this also breaks down collagen (which is protein) in the skin, which can eventually cause wrinkles and skin cancer.  The virus CA NNOT go through healthy skin.  Vinegar is NOT useful either, because it does not break down the protective layer of fat.  NO SPIRITS, NOR VODKA can

serve it because the strongest vodka is only 40% alcohol and it needs 65% to be effective.  LISTERINE CAN SERVE! It is 65% alcohol.  The more confined the space, the more concentration of the virus there can be. The more open or naturally ventilated, the less.  This might sound super repetitious, but you must wash your hands before and after touching mucuous, food, locks, knobs, switches, remote controls, cell phones, watches, computers, desks, TV, etc. And of course, when using the bathroom.  And finally, one has to HUMIDIFY HANDS DRY from too much washing, because the molecules can hide in the micro cracks. The thicker the moisturizer, the better. And keep those NAILS SHORT, so that the virus does not hide there." This was such a great informational message for those of us who worry about our safety during these challenging times. As the old saying goes: "an ounce of prevention is a pound of cure... and, better safe than sorry." Wishing everyone to stay practice social distancing at all times, stay try to healthy and safe out there.

DOH eyes release of Covid-19 test results by 24-48 hours MANILA – The government is now targeting meeting the standard processing time of 24 to 48 hours in releasing the results of tests of persons suspected to be infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the Department of Health (DOH) said on Friday. DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire issued the statement, as she admitted that it takes five to seven days for Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) to release the Covid-19 test results due to “backlog.” Vergeire said RITM already made a commitment to address the backlog in “two to three days.” “Pagkatapos po noon, magkakaroon tayo ng real-time results already na sinasabi nating 24 to 48 hours (After that, we can now have real-time results. We can get the results by 24 to 48 hours),” she said in a televised “Laging Handa” briefing. There are now 707 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the Philippines, with 45 deaths and 28 recoveries. To improve the testing capacity in the country, Vergeire said subnational laboratories are expected to receive some 5,000 test kits each either by Friday or Saturday. Subnational laboratories that will get new test kits from DOH include Southern Philippine Medical Center in Davao City, Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu, San Lazaro Hospital in Manila, Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center, and the Lung Center of the Philippines, Vergeire said. Vergeire said subnational laboratories also vowed to process the results of tests for Covid-19 by 24 to 48 hours. She added that around 30 laboratories have signified interest to conduct the test for Covid-19. “Isa-isa ho nating ia-assess iyan

para lumawak pa ho ang mga laboratoryong maaaring gumawa ng test na ito sa ating bansa (We are assessing that so we can have more laboratories that can conduct Covid-19 tests in our country),” Vergeire said.

Check rapid test kits

Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion stressed the need to improve access to testing to allay public fear amid the Covid-19 pandemic in the country. Concepcion said the use of rapid test kits for Covid-19 should be assessed by the DOH and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “There are these rapid test kits that are out there and available. The issue here is that DOH and FDA do not agree with it,” he said during the “Laging Handa” briefing. “Sometimes, in warfare, you have to use what we have now. If the test kits are already running, then there’s no need for this type of rapid test kits. I hope that the DOH and the FDA will test these test kits.” The DOH earlier thumbed down the use of rapid Covid-19 test kits, as it questioned the accuracy of the test results. Vergeire said the DOH and FDA have to be careful in approving the use of test kits for Covid-19 to ensure that the results of tests are “accurate.” “Ang problema po kapag hindi po registered iyan ng Food and Drug Administration, hindi po iyan dumaan sa masusing pag-aaral, maari pong magbigay iyan sa atin ng false negative or false positive results (The problem is if it’s not registered by the Food and Drug Administration, it can give false negative or false positive results),” she warned. The FDA has so far approved 15 Covid-19 test kits for commercial use. (PNA)

Saturday-Friday | March 28 - April 3, 2020

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Philippines to stop airport transport arrangements for stranded foreigners on March 28

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said the Philippine government will stop helping foreign governments transport their citizens through quarantine checkpoints to Manila’s international airport by Saturday. "I will announce to the foreign embassies that tomorrow is the last day we do humanitarian missions to take foreign tourists to our international airports where they can take sweeper flights organized and paid for by their governments," Locsin said on Twitter. Wit h t he Philippine government "stretched so thin" to provide assistance, Locsin said their governments should "assume the main burden of collecting them for sweeper flights out."

"We are exhausted and have done more than expected," Locsin said. "We will stay steadfast in our shared aim to get those out who want to go but the main burden will have to be born by their embassies and home governments." The DFA, however, will still help "gather the stragglers, talk to restrictive local governments to let them go through quarantines," and "give whatever help we can extend." "We're stretched so thin. I hope you understand," Locsin said. "Of course, if I can I will rustle up rich friends to help get them out but my friendships are wearing thin; my friends have their own problems." Locsin commended the Philippine military for picking up stragglers to fill up the flights despite being "at

the end of the tether." Foreigners, he said, can still leave the country anytime and will not be penalized for exceeding their visas. Due to global travel restrictions caused by the coronavirus disease or Covid-19 pandemic, flights going in and out of Manila are getting scarce. The Philippines is on an enhanced community quarantine since March 15 and has banned the entry of most foreign nationals due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Since then, the government has extended assistance to foreign tourists and travelers who wanted to fly out of the country, arranging sweeper flights from different parts of the country to take them to Manila. (MNS)

Nearly 11K tourists affected by ECQ get DOT aid M ANIL A — The Department of Tourism (DOT) has assisted a total of 10,829 local and foreign tourists affected by the enhanced community quarantine as of March 25. The assistance extended by the DOT includes the facilitation of flights to transport stranded tourists from various destinations to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Clark International Airport, in coordination with Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, and Air Swift. DOT regional offices have also arranged land transport in Luzon and inter-island vessels, such as Philippine Coast Guard boats, to ferry tourists from the islands of Bohol, Siquijor, and Negros to Cebu. Also facilitated were shuttle services and hotel accommodations to some stranded tourists, as well as the provision of free food and hygienic items, called MalasaKits, at the NAIA terminals.

Efforts from the public and private sectors to assist concerned travelers have been ongoing since the community quarantine was imposed in Metro Manila and was eventually expanded in the entire Luzon. According to data provided by Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, some 2,500 travelers remain stranded in Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao as of Wednesday. Of this number, Region 7 (Central Visayas) has the highest number with 899, followed by Region 11 (Davao region) with 540; Region 6 (Western Visayas), 291; and Region 5 (Bicol), 177 tourists. Romulo-Puyat repeatedly assured that the DOT would continue to extend assistance to stranded travelers. In the coming days, four sweeper flights will fly out of Boracay Island while three are set to leave from Davao and Puerto Princesa on March 26.

Tourism chief to do home quarantine MANILA — Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said Friday that she would undergo self-quarantine after the announcement that Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff, Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., has tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). In a statement, Romulo-Puyat noted that she was in close contact with Santos in a meeting on March 20. "Since I do not show any signs nor symptoms, I will not be having myself tested in order to save the limited supply of testing kits to people who truly need it. By staying at home, I will not put anyone I come in contact with at risk. The safety of those around me is

my priority," she said. Romulo-Puyat said she would continue working while on self-quarantine as the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) staff members have been performing their jobs remotely since the enhanced community quarantine in Luzon began. "Our locations will not beset us from fulfilling our duties to serve our tourists and stakeholders in this time of need," she said. To date, the DOT has assisted 11,863 travelers nationwide while 1,466 remain stranded, mostly from Region 7 (Central Visayas), 700; Region 11 (Davao region), 218; and Region 5 (Bicol), 177. (PNA)

Meanwhile, after concerns were raised over stranded tourists reportedly turned away after their bookings ended, the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) clarified that stranded passengers, whether Filipino or foreigners, "are also allowed to book hotels and seek temporary accommodations." (PNA)

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Immigration bureau temporarily allows foreigners with visas to leave without ACR I-Card MANILA (Mabuhay) — Foreigners with approved and implemented visas are temporarily allowed to leave the country without their Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card (ACR I-Card) as further compliance with COVID-19 social distancing measures, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said Friday. ACR I-Card is an identification card issued to all registered foreigners with immigrant or non-immigrant visas who have stayed in the Philippines for more than 59 days. Under regular procedures, departing foreigners with approved visas but pending ACR I-Card are required to secure a waiver at the BI's Office in Intramuros, Manila, the BI said in a statement. Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said the bureau is temporarily doing away with ACR I-Card waiver orders as an additional measure to lessen person-to-person contact. This change is in line with the enhanced community quarantine and stringent social distancing measures directive from Malacañang, the BI said. Foreigners are now required to present the following documents in place of the ACR I-Card waiver order: passport with valid visa, official receipts of the ACR I-Card waiver application fee and emigration clearance certificate with returning permit or special resident certificate, whichever is applicable. The BI advised outbound foreign nationals to keep these requirements since they will be needed again when they reenter the Philippines. The bureau scaled down its operations in Luzon and suspended several transactions in the island after President Rodrigo Duterte imposed sweeping quarantine rules in an attempt to arrest the spread of COVID-19. (MNS)

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ANZ Research eyes add’l monetary easing to address pandemic MANILA — ANZ Research forecasts more policy easing from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to help address the economic impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). This, as the economic and financial markets research arm of Melbourne-headquartered Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ) sees a big drop in the Philippine economic growth this year to only 1.2 percent because of the impact of the global pandemic. This growth projection is way lower than the 5.9-percent output of the domestic economy last year and the government’s 6.5-7.5 percent target for this year. With the need to finance programs to address the economic impact of Covid-19 on the domestic economy, the central bank’s policy-making

DUQUE… FROM PAGE 9 “Kami po ay sumasangayon na nagkaroon ng breach sa quarantine protocol at na hindi dapat nangyari ito… Ganap tayong makikipagtulungan sa mga aksyon na tatahakin ng mga [lead] agencies,” Duque said at a virtual press conference, referring to departments enforcing peace and order. In a statement on Wednesday, MMC Medical Director Dr. Saturnino Javier described Pimentel's actions as "irresponsible and reckless,' saying that by being at the MMC and entering the delivery room, Pimentel violated his Home Quarantine Protocol and unduly exposed the staff at the hospital to possible infection. Javier said he was leaving it to the hospital management to decide whether or not to press charges against the lawmakers The Office of the Ombudsman is already looking into the possibility of probing the incident. A private lawyer has also signified his intention to file criminal, civil, and administrative complaints against Pimentel. Pimental has already apologized for the incident, saying he went with his wife to the hospital because he was excited about her delivery and thought he could not transmit the virus through droplets because he was not coughing anyway. At Thursday's press conference, Duque, meanwhile, belied claims of “VIP treatment” for high-ranking officials after netizens slammed asymptomatic politicians who were tested for COVID-19 despite the limited number of test kits in the country. “Atin pong pinapaalala sa mga laboratoryo na sundin ang ‘firstin, first-out’ policy sa pagproseso ng mga specimen. Binibilisan din po natin ang expansion ng ating testing centers upang matugunan ang backlog,” he said. (MNS)

LORENZANA:… FROM PAGE 10

Monetary Board (MB) has so far cut by 75 basis points the BSP’s key policy rates, allowed the purchase of as much as PHP300 billion worth of government securities with a maximum repayment period of six months, cut universal and commercial bank’s (U/ KBs’) reserve requirement ratio (RRR) by 200 basis points effective March 20, 2020 to boost domestic liquidity by around PHP180 billion, and advanced the remittance of PHP20 billion worth of dividends to the national government for this year. The report said fiscal and monetary accommodation are set to become more aggressive, citing similar decisions overseas. “We are of the view that the spectrum of monetary policy will be widened to credit guarantees on lending to impacted sectors and greater regu-

latory forbearance on non-performing assets,” it said, adding “the availability of credit is becoming important than its price in our view.” The report also believes that the amount of fiscal stimulus announced by the government to date is not enough to address the needs of the present situation. The government has announced an initial PHP27.1-billion stimulus program to be disbursed to the affected sectors, and more are being collated especially since Congress has approved a measure that gives President Rodrigo R. Duterte emergency powers to realign the budget to come up with funds for Covid-19 measures. “While welcome, these measures will in our view, not be able to offset the above discussed headwinds,” it added. (PNA)

PH prioritizes support for Covid19affected workers, frontliners MANILA — The government’s current priority is supporting displaced workers and frontliners, and not extending any immediate stimulus package for businesses. This was stressed by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III amid calls for government intervention for businesses that are also affected by the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic. In a video conference with journalists Wednesday, Dominguez said they want to “expand our capacity to deal with this (current situation) on a physical basis and to provide liquidity to the economy.” This, he said, is the main focus and not the stimulus package being proposed by some business groups. In a statement issued March 23, several business organizations hailed the immediate attention given by lawmakers on the proposed measures that will allow the government to map out solutions and gather funds to address the impact of the pandemic. Among others, they suggested the institution of a special financing program to help businesses to also “get back on their feet” after the global health issue. “I have told the people who had

FINANCE SECRETARY CARLOS DOMINGUEZ III

come out with that proposal to do a stimulus package that is not our priority at the moment,” Dominguez said. Protecting the people from being affected by the virus and providing their needs are the government’s goals right now, he said. “We don’t even know what’s the point of giving tax credits and giving stimulus package now when you have no workers,” he added. (PNA)

PHILIPPINES… FROM PAGE 10 The group will be chaired by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). Meanwhile, its members will be composed of the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Trade and Industry, and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency. The IATF has also directed NEDA to propose the inclusion of other agencies and offices to the group subject to its approval and modification. Meanwhile, the IATF on Emerging Infectious Diseases on Friday night ordered the "expeditious" release of all refrigerated containers and dry vans at the ports. Nograles said the decision was in line with the government's "strong imperative to ensure the availability of essential goods, in particular, food and medicine and other basic commodities." Covered by the order are all corresponding importers, consignees, truckers, shipping lines and concerned government regulators, such as "but not limited to" the Bureau of Customs, the Philippine Ports Authority, the Department of Trade and Industry, and the Department of Agriculture, including its bureaus and attached agencies. "Port operators (are directed) to release (the shipments) expeditiously," said Nograles. The Cabinet secretary instructed the concerned agencies to issue a joint memorandum circular on specific guidelines that will implement the directive. (MNS)

Following the notification, Lorenzana said all military exercises with the US will cease once the VFA is officially terminated in August. However, he said all exercises scheduled before the VFA termination will continue but the Americans may opt to discontinue these. "But events were overtaken by this COVID. And since foreigners are banned from coming (under the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine), then the exercises are cancelled," said Lorenzana. US Indo-Pacific Command chief Adm. Phil Davidson earlier said it was "prudent to cancel" the exercise "“in light of the extraordinary circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic and in the best interest of the health and safety

of both countries’ forces." The military earlier said the exercise would involve 6,500 US servicemen and 4,300 Filipino troops. It was due to be held in May though US advance party were expected to arrive in next month. Rear Admiral Adelius Bordado, chief of AFP Education, Training and Doctrine Command and the co-director of Balikatan 2020, has said the Philippine military was also intending to terminate the Balikatan exercise. "We are in an extra-ordinary time and many will be put in harm's way if we continue Balikatan. It’s a huge-scale exercise, it involves thousands (of troops)... I’ts about time to cancel the Balikatan for the safety of troops and all people because Balikatan is a huge-scale exercise," said Bordado. (MNS)

Saturday-Friday | March 28 - April 3, 2020

More targeted policy support vs. Covid-19 pushed MANILA — The government needs to further implement targeted policy support to address the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic’s impact on the Philippine economy, a report by UnionBank’s economic research unit said. The report cited analysts’ comparison on the economic situation of the Philippines during the 20082009 global financial crisis (GFC) and the current condition which is considered to be “worse” because of the Covid-19 pandemic. “If we are going to take their initial assessments seriously then, the response to this pandemic should be stronger and the scope bigger,” it said. During the financial crunch in the previous decade, the report said the Philippine government’s fiscal policies included the institution of a PHP330-billion economic resiliency plan (ERP), which accounts for about 4.1 percent of gross domestic product (GDP); a PHP160-billion fund for higher spending by the national government for community-level infrastructure projects and social protection measures; and PHP100-billion financing for extra-budgetary infrastructure projects and fund for large infrastructure projects. Also part of the fiscal measures then were the PHP30-billion fund for new and temporary additional benefits for members of the Social Security System (SSS), Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (Philhealth), PHP40 billion in income tax cuts, and PHP250 million as “payback” package for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Monetary and macro-financial policies implemented that time also included the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) decision to accommodate first-round effects and to keep policy rates steady in the early part of 2008, hike in BSP’s key rates from June to August of 2008, the introduction of a US dollar repurchase agreement (repo) facility, cut in bank’s reserve requirement ratio (RRR), hike of the rediscounting budget, and a policy rate cut in December 2008 as inflation outlook got better. This time, BSP’s policy-making Monetary Board (MB) has slashed key policy rates by a total of 75 basis points, approved the purchase of PHP300 billion worth of government securities to be redeemed within six months, cut universal and commercial banks’ (U/KBs) RRR by 200 basis points to help boost domestic liquidity, and the advanced remittance of PHP20 billion worth of dividends to the national government to support funds for Covid-19 measures. The report said domestic growth before GFC was 6.6 percent in 2017, but it slowed to 4.2 percent the following year and to 1.1 percent in 2009 before rebounding to 7.6 percent in 2010. It said there is now a big difference between the domestic economy this time and a decade ago, citing the larger share of not just the trade sector but also the tourism sector. Consumption and remittance inflows remain among the growth drivers of the economy, the report said. “An estimated deeper impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the bigger real macroeconomy, compared to the economic losses caused by the GFC, warrants wider and more encompassing policies. By mere optics, the current crop of policies may have to be augmented further and a more targeted policy support is very much needed,” it added. (PNA)

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PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT

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PRAYER TO SAINT JUDE

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

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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 many, but the Church honors and invokes you universally as the patron of hopeless cases and of things despaired of. Pray for me who am so needy; make use, I implore you of that particular privilege accorded to you to bring visible and speedy help where help is almost despaired. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolations and succor of heaven in all my necessities, tribulations, and sufferings particularly (here mention your petition) and that I may bless God with you and all the elect throughout eternity. I promise you, O blessed Jude to be ever mindful of this great favor, and I will never cease to honor you as my special and powerful patron and to do all in my power to encourage devotion to you. Amen. THANK YOU - ARDY

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TO SAINT THERESE many, but thePRAYER Church honors and invokes you universally as the

O Glorious St. Therese, whom Almighty God has raised up to aid patron of hopeless cases and of things Pray for and inspire the human family, I implore your despaired Miraculousof. Intercession. You are so in obtaining every need of body and spirit from me who ampowerful so needy; make use, I implore you of that particular the Heart of God. Holy Mother Church proclaims you â€˜Prodigy of privilege accorded to you to bring visible and speedy help where Miracles... the Greatest Saint of Modern Times.â€™ Now I fervently beseech you todespaired. answer myCome petition here) in and to great carry help is almost to (mention my assistance this out your promises of spending Heaven doing good on earth...of need that I may receive the consolations and succor of heaven letting fall from Heaven a Shower of Roses. Little Flower, give in allyour my necessities, tribulations, sufferings particularly (here me childlike faith, to see theand Face of God in the people and experiences my life,and andthat to love with fullwith confidence. mention yourofpetition) I mayGod bless God you and St. all Therese, my Carmelite Sister, I will fulfill your plea â€˜to be made the elect throughout eternity. I promise you, O blessed Jude to be known everywhereâ€™ and I will continue to lead others to Jesus through you. of Amen THANK YOU ever mindful this great favor, and- ISHAHELA will never cease to honor you

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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 confirm 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 difficult it may be. Promise to publish this as soon as your favor has been granted. Grateful Thanks) - God bless - OMEL

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Features

Saturday-Friday | March 28 - April 3, 2020

How a brave Covid-19 frontliner left a legacy of selfless service

CatPH fashion designers make PPEs, masks for healthcare workers

s the country intensifies its battle against the deadly coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), frontliners are sacrificing their time, efforts and lives amid the risks and exposure from the ones infected with the virus. One of them is Dr. Romeo Greg Macasaet, an anesthesiologist from Manila Doctors Hospital who died recently due to Covid-19. He earlier tested positive along with his wife, Evalyn, a fellow anesthesiologist. Macasaet was hospitalized after exposure to Covid-19 patient who recently traveled abroad. On Sunday, the Manila Doctors Hospital confirmed Macasaet's passing. His wife is currently under medication against the virus. The entire hospital where he used to serve as a doctor mourns his passing, calling him “one of the best anesthesiologists in the country” and a “brave” frontliner. Several Facebook posts are a statement to Macasaet's heroism.

Selfless, dedicated

Macasaet's godson, Aboy Paraiso, shared how he remained selfless amid the risks of Covid-19. "If you know Ninong Greg, then like me you wouldn't be surprised at how everything unfolded and even his death speaks of the character of the man and his family. As he recounted to me, he and Ateng chose to stay when most of their colleagues chose to keep themselves safe and did not report for work," Paraiso said on a Facebook post. Despite having an only son with special needs, Paraiso said the couple stayed at their posts and remained true to their oath and calling as doctors. "And now Kuya Greg has made the ultimate sacrifice of life, not because he was forced or obliged to do so, but because of his dedication to his craft and his constant devotion to be of service to others," he added. Before his passing, Macasaet sent a text message to Paraiso detailing his battle with the virus. “Good evening, my beloved brethren! The turn of events is just no longer going in my favor. The feeling you get, aside from extreme pains all over, the difficulty of breathing and as if all life is being sucked from your body. They will be putting cutdown lines and central tubes on me anytime soon. If they intubate me and place me

on a ventilator, then the game is almost over," the text, which went viral online, reads. Macasaet said if his wife survives, he wishes her and his son Raymond a long and happy life. "Raymond, however, needs financial and emotional care for the rest of his life. Something I may no longer be able to fulfill. It Is my fervent hope that all of you may assist the rest of my family in our most difficult times," he added. Paraiso replied to the request of his ninong. "I promise to look after your family especially

Dr. Romeo Gregorio “Greg” N. Macasaet III, MD

his ninong's story. "I ask you to share his story, both in life and in death, that others may learn from it, and that in his sacrifice we may pay tribute to and honor all the men and women in the frontlines who, like him, are risking self and family to serve us and keep us and our loved ones safe," he said. Paraiso also asked prayers for Macasaet's eternal repose and for the recovery of his wife Evalyn. Macasaet, known as "Doc Greg" for his colleagues, family, friends, and clients, left a brave legacy in the battle against the public health crisis. Another colleague, Jun David, said Macasaet was also an "avid photographer". The Macasaet couple are just two of the doctors in the country specializing in perioperative care and administration of anesthetics. Despite the risks that treating patients can also cause harm for health workers, those in the frontline take chance to lend their hands to those who need it. Malacañang earlier mourned the passing of three doctors, including Macasaet's Dra. Evalyn (left) and Dr. Greg Macasaet (right) death. Apart from Macasaet, cardiologist Israel Bactol from Raymond. I would be there in their times of the Philippine Heart Center and oncoloneed. Rest assured my brother that Raymond gist Rose Pulido of the San Juan de Dios would have his Dad look after him and even if Hospital succumbed to Covid-19. you're gone, he would be part of Keystone now Malacañang reminded health workers and until I draw breath. I will forever cherish to look after themselves as it was the only one of the last text messages we had that time way they would be able to fulfill their duthat you have seemingly accepted the inevitable ties. and I will try to fulfill your last wish for me, As of March 27, the number of persons that I have a long and happy life as blessed as who have been infected by Covid-19 in the yours," he replied. country has climbed to 803. (Lade Jean He encouraged those reading his post to share Kabagani/PNA)

GALVEZ... From page 1 G over nment ” approach on t he COVID-19 threat, and featured a streamlined governance structure to facilitate the timely and efficient response to the threats posed by the novel coronavirus. Furthermore, the government plan was not solely focused on containing the spread of the virus, but also in implementing initiatives that would mitigate the social, economic and security impacts of the health crisis. Galvez explained the NAP focused on four lines of effort: an enhanced community quarantine, enhanced monitoring and response, responsive sustainment, and crisis communication. “The first strategy is to provide clear, accurate and timely information to support the operations against the spread of COVID19. The second strategy is to contain and prevent the further spread of the virus,” he said. “The third is to sustain the conduct of operations against COVID19. The fourth is we should mitigate the consequences and social, economic and security impact of COVID19.” In his statement, Galvez also took great pains to explain the structure of the NAP, with President Rodrigo

By Terry Cagayat & Melda Guerra

NUMBER... From page 1 Duterte at the top and the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, which was composed of different Cabinet secretaries, formulating policies. The National Task Force (NTF) on COVID 19, which would “operationalize” the policies of the IATF-IED would be chaired by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenza and vice-chaired by Interior Government Secretary Eduardo Año. “We are facing an unprecedented health crisis we have never seen before in our nation’s history. The COVID-19 pandemic is not only a health crisis but also an economic, social and security crisis weaved into one,” said Galvez. “We have to be at least two or three steps ahead and carry out crucial interventions at the soonest possible time. This will enable our country to better cope with the pandemic which is sweeping across our country and the world.” Galvez is a retired four-star general who served as Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff prior to his appointment of presidential peace adviser in 2018. He was appointed Chief Implementer of the NAP on Thursday. (MNS)

asymptomatic with one negative result. Patient 66 was a 25-year-old Filipino from Pasig City with no travel history. However, he was exposed to a confirmed COVID-19 case. His symptoms began on March 7, and he was confirmed positive for the virus on March 13. The patient was discharged on March 25, was asymptomatic with two negative results. Meanwhile, patient 42 was a 51-year-old Filipino from Pasig with travel history to Japan. The patient's symptoms began on March 5. He tested positive for the virus on March 11 and was discharged on March 26, asymptomatic with one negative result. T he he a lt h depa r t ment also announced a total of 803 confirmed COVID-19 cases with a total of 54 fatalities. As of Friday, the DOH had conducted 2,287 COVID-19 tests. Of the number, 791 tested negative while 691 had pending results. There were 744 persons under investigation and 6,321 persons under monitoring for the virus. (MNS)

ONE NEWS.PH

The local fashion industry has never been this busy. Making a difference in the lives of those who give care to the sick and the needy, the Philippines’ fashion designers have come together to do their part in helping the country survive the coronavirus disease pandemic. To answer the call of the medical community’s need for personal protective equipment (PPE) in the midst of supply shortage in hospitals, a group of fashion designers have decided to make suits, masks, and shoe covers for healthcare workers (HCW). Fashion designer Mich Dulce spearheads the project called the Manila Protective Gear Sewing Club, in cooperation with the Office of Vice President Leni Robredo. On March 20, Dulce started the project rolling by calling on her colleagues in the fashion industry, posting in her Facebook account: "My friend Cynthia Diaz has rolls of 75gsm non woven fabric she would like to donate that can be made into protective suits, masks and shoe covers. "In lieu of this, VP Leni will be lending us samples of protective gear so we can make a pattern of it, and begin production. "My studio will be focusing on making this for the time being as my team works on this from home. "The gear will be distributed via the Office of the Vice President. "To friends in the fashion industry who have studios/factories still in operation or with capacity to work from home and want to help, please DM me and let's try get this material to become something our health workers can use. "If you have a sewing machine you can help. Once we make the suit patterns we will make copies of it and distribute alongside the fabric." Designer-volunteers started coming in: Rajo Laurel called Mich to say he’s onboard; Michael Leyva has put together a team to make PPE suits, face masks, and head covers for HCWs. On Instagram, the fashion designers pay tribute to the front liners, honoring them with their dedication and love for our country. "MABUHAY po kayo at Salamat sa dedikasyon at pagmamahal sa ating bayan!”

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Saturday-Friday | March 28 - April 3, 2020

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Saturday-Friday | March 28 - April 3, 2020

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