Weekend Balita (Los Angeles edition) August 12, 2023

TOP STORIES

 DENR chief Loyzaga says all 22 Manila Bay reclamation projects suspended 7

 BI favors ‘disincentivizing’ victims reengaging in illicit work 8

 Gov’t on track to meet mediumterm fiscal framework targets 9

 BuCor chief lauds PBBM appointment of new deputy director 9

 PH, US to keep alliance ‘relevant, responsive’ to emerging defense, economic challenges: Marcos Jr. 9

 Chinese ships tried to ram Philippine resupply boats, says Navy crew 12

 PhilSA chief thanks PBBM’s support to space sector 12

Sections

 ENTERTAINMENT. Vice Ganda is first Filipino to reach 15M followers on X 19

 HEALTH & FAMILY. FDA: No ongoing application for Zuranolone use in PH 16

 BUSINESS. US firm to allot $1B for Clark, Baguio chip manufacturing sites 15

 FIL-AM COMMUNITY. Matea

Mahal Smith Wins Miss Filipina International, Becomes First Winner of Filipino and Black Descent in Pageant’s 10-Year History 3

Sánchez holds 18th Annual Senior Fair

Over 700 seniors and 40 vendors attended the event

WHITTIER — Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez (D-CA) hosted her 18th Annual Senior Fair on Friday, August 4 at Cerritos College in Norwalk, CA. This marked the return of Congresswoman Sanchez’s Annual Senior Fair since the pandemic limited larger in-person events. Over 700 constituents and 40 vendors from across the 38th Congressional District attended.

Congresswoman Sánchez updated seniors on legislation in Congress that directly impacts them and the programs they rely on, such as Social Security, Medicare, and Veterans’ benefits. Seniors participated in free health screenings and consulted with agencies such as the Social Security Administration, Department of Veteran Affairs, and senior advocacy organizations.

“Senior Fair is one of my favorite events every year,” Congresswoman Linda Sánchez said to the crowd.

“As your voice in Washington, one of the most important parts of my job is making sure our seniors are fi nancially stable and can enjoy their golden years in good health. You’ve worked hard your entire life. You kept your end of the deal. I want to do everything I can to make sure you have

PHILIPPINES PLANNING MILITIA FLEET, EYES FISHERS AS RESERVE FORCES

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippine military is looking to put up its maritime militia in the West Philippine Sea to strengthen its presence in the area days after the Chinese coast guard used water cannons on a resupply mission to the Ayungin Shoal.

AFP chief of staff General Romeo Brawner answered in the affirmative if putting up a militia fleet was part of the Philippines' plans with China and Vietnam having their own.

"Yes, it's part of our plans," Brawner said at a news conference at the AFP Western Command headquarters in Palawan.

Brawner said the military was looking at Filipino fisherfolk being part of

Texas Southern Border ‘Like a War Zone’

they seek to enter the country.

By Peter White | EMS

The border at Eagle Pass, Texas, has razor wire and a 1000-foot line of big round buoys. The floating barriers are meant to deter migrants looking to cross from the city of Piedras Negras, on the Mexican side of the Rio Grande River. For journalist Manuel Ortiz, they are part of what he says is a more militarized atmosphere along this stretch of the U.S.-Mexico border.

“This is the first time that it seems to me like a war zone,” says Ortiz, founder of Peninsula 360 Press, who has covered the border off and on for decades. Driving southwest from San Antonio, he describes helicopters overhead and military vehicles along the road.

Last week, state troopers found a body stuck to one of the border buoys.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott began Operation Lone Star in March 2021 in response to rising border crossings. In May of that same year, Abbott issued a disaster declaration, Floating barriers

the reserve forces.

"We're also trying to develop our reservists who will be able to operate in the sea," Brawner said.

"And then of course, 'yung gusto natin 'yung mga fisherfolks natin gawin din nating reservists at tuturuan natin sila kugn paano sila makaktulong sa pagdipensa ng ating bansa," he added.

The Wescom said it monitored over 400 for -

PHILIPPINES »17

Sagada: The Resilience, Energy and Productivity of its People

Los Angeles County — The Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA) completed another successful back to school season at the Carmelitos, Harbor Hills, Nueva Maravilla, and South County (Scattered Sites) Public Housing Developments. With almost a quarter century of tradition, these events have provided public housing youth and their families reliable educational resources and school supplies, and even haircuts, to successfully kick-start the new school year.

This year’s events had numerous special guests including a sponsorship by Frito

The scorching heat of summer has started in Southern California. What I did notice was that our young banana plant started to fold all its leaves. I thought it was beginning to wilt. When the sun’s excessive heat waned, the leaves unfurled to its normal position. I surmise it is most likely that the plant wanted to avoid the brunt of the immense heat of the day. Plants naturally know how to survive.

Humans, on the other hand, do display their creative ways when faced with adversity especially here in this 5,000-foot highland town of Sagada, nestled right in the Cordillera Mountains of Luzon, Philippines.

Natives of this Mountain Province town are called "Igorots". For the 300 years of Spanish

Lay employees, made possible through our partnership with East LA Rising, and an appearance from Chester Cheetah himself at Nueva Maravilla. With help from Frito Lay employees, staff at Nueva Maravilla distributed more than 260 backpacks full of stationary supplies to students grades K-12. Students also had an opportunity to receive free new clothing and shoe donations. Youth and their families also participated in a career panel led by the Frito Lay staff. The event provided an opportunity for participants to reconnect with their

In a news conference held at the AFP Western Command headquarters in Palawan, AFP chief of staff General Romeo Brawner said that it is part of the Philippines’ plans to put up a militia fleet with China and Vietnam having their own.

Floating barriers and razor wire now line the Rio Grande along the US-Mex border, one of many obstacles migrants face as

line the Rio Grande separating Eagle Pass, Texas and Piedras Negras, Mexico. (Credit: Manuel Ortiz)

Text and Photos by: Vics Magsaysay

WILTON RANCHERIA’S SKY RIVER CASINO CELEBRATES 1ST ANNIVERSARY

ELK GROVE, Calif. — Wilton Rancheria and their partner Boyd Gaming Corporation have a lot to celebrate this month, as they approach the first anniversary of Sky River Casino’s opening on August 15, 2023.

It has been a tremendous first year for Sky River, which has received a very strong reception from the Sacramento-area community since the day it opened. Over its first year, Sky River has also earned a strong reputation as a great employer as well as a reliable supporter of local businesses and local non-profits throughout the area and is on track to contribute more than $130 million over the next 20 years to its community.

“We are incredibly proud of what we have created at Sky River Casino, and the enormous benefits it is delivering for the Wilton Rancheria people, Sacramento County’s only tribe,” said Chris Gibase, President, and Chief Operating Officer of Sky River Casino. “Over the past year, we have firmly established Sky River Casino as our community’s leading gaming entertainment destination, with an unrivaled selection of exciting casino gaming and unique dining options. We are also immensely proud of the team we’ve built at Sky River, with 1,600 local team members who provide incredible service to our guests, support non-profit organizations through their volunteer activities, and live the Sky River Culture each and every day.”

Building on its successful first year, this Fall Sky River will add a whiskey and cigar lounge called The Humidor to its extensive food and

beverage offerings. Additionally, a major expansion is now in the planning stage, which includes a hotel, spa, pools, and event space to Sky River in the future.

Sky River Casino has established itself as an engaged and involved partner for local charities, non-profits, and community events, which is a point-of-pride for the Wilton Rancheria Tribe, owners of the casino. Wilton Rancheria is the only tribe whose Indigenous territory encompasses Sacramento County.

“Over the last year, we have been able to create more than 1,600 jobs in our community and provide monetary support to more than 100 local charities, all while working to ensure economic stability for the people of Wilton Rancheria for generations to come,” said Jesus Tarango, Wilton Rancheria Tribal Chair. “I would like to gratefully acknowledge the ancestors, elders, and members of Wilton Rancheria for their faith and belief as we tirelessly worked to bring this dream to reality,” Tarango said, acknowledging support from city, county and state leaders and the California Indian Country. “We would not have been able to achieve this unprecedented level of success without your guidance, vision, and direction.”

“Finally, and most importantly, we would like to thank everyone who has visited Sky River over this last year, whether to play at the casino or eat at one of our amazing restaurants. We are truly humbled by your continued patronage and support,” Tarango said.

Of the 1,600 team members on

staff today, almost 1,000 are Charter Team Members, which means they have been with Sky River since before doors opened. Sky River team members enjoy a dynamic workplace culture, competitive salary, opportunities for advancement and competitive benefits.

To commemorate an incredibly successful first year, Sky River Casino is celebrating its first anniversary with a $1 Million First in Class Anniversary Giveaway. Throughout

About Sky River Casino

the month of August, a total of eight guaranteed Land Rover Defender vehicles will be given away - one per night each Friday and Saturday, along with Las Vegas getaway trips, cash, and prizes to 100 lucky winners this month.

For more information about Sky River Casino, its offerings, restaurant open hours and the $1 Million First In Class Anniversary Giveaway, please call 916-866-0200 or visit www.SkyRiver.com.

Sky River Casino was built by the Wilton Rancheria in partnership with Boyd Gaming Corporation, which is building and managing the property for the tribe. The casino opened in August 2022 and includes 100,000 sq ft of gaming, 2,100 slot machines, 80 table games, and 17 bars and restaurants. To learn more, visit www.SkyRiver.com.

Covina-Valley Unified’s Energy Conservation Program Earns EPA ENERGY STAR Recognitions

COVINA, CA – Covina-Valley

Unified School District has been honored with ENERGY STAR certifications from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its dedication to sustainable and fi scally responsible practices through its comprehensive energy conservation program.

Twelve C-VUSD school sites earned ENERGY STAR certifications for meeting ventilation standards set by the EPA and rating in the top 25 percent nationwide for energy efficiency. The District’s ENERGY STAR-certified facilities are proven to save energy and money and help protect the environment by generating fewer greenhouse gas emissions than typical buildings.

Through its partnership with Cenergistic, an energy conservation company, the District created a comprehensive conservation program to protect the environment and save taxpayer dollars. The District has saved over $1 million since the program's launch two years ago.

“The cost of utilities continues to increase, and our energy conservation program helps us combat those rising costs and provide needed funding elsewhere in the District,” C-VUSD Chief Business Officer Manuel Correa said. “We are so proud of this recognition from ENER-

GY STAR, which really shows the value of our energy conservation program in helping us care for the environment and stretching our valuable tax dollars.”

Covina, Fairvalley, and South Hills high schools; Las Palmas and Traweek middle schools; Barranca, Ben Lomond, Cypress, Grovecenter, Manzanita, Mesa, and Workman elementary schools received ENERGY Star certification.

C-VUSD addresses energy use Districtwide through its partnership with Cenergistic, whose specialists track energy consumption at all campuses through state-of-the-art technology and then work to identify and correct areas where energy is overused. The District’s program aims to reduce energy use and related costs by educating District staff so everyone understands, uses, and saves energy daily.

“These ENERGY STAR Certifications are proof of Covina-Valley Unified’s commitment to the health of our students and staff , sustainability, and fi scal responsibility with taxpayer dollars,” Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Eminhizer said. “Our staff has embraced our energy conservation program, and we are dedicated to operating healthier, more efficient buildings for our community.”

Governor Newsom Announces New Strategy to Develop a Hydrogen Economy of the Future

Twelve Covina-Valley Unifi ed School District buildings, including Covina High, received ENERGY STAR Certifi cations for saving energy and money and helping protect the environment by generating fewer greenhouse gas emissions than typical buildings. The District has saved more than $1 million on utilities since it launched a comprehensive energy conservation program with Cenergistic two years ago.

SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom has directed the Governor’s Offi ce of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) to develop California’s Hydrogen Market Development Strategy, employing an all-of-government approach to building up California’s clean, renewable hydrogen market. It will closely resemble the Zero-Emission Vehicle Market Development Strategy to help California collectively move forward and deliver zero-emission benefits to all Californians.

“California is all in on clean, renewable hydrogen – an essential aspect of how we’ll power our future and cut pollution,” said Governor Newsom. “This strategy will lay out the pathway for building a robust hydrogen market to help us fully embrace this source of clean energy.”

WHY IT’S NEEDED:

• Expanding the market for clean, renewable hydrogen is key to achieving California’s climate goals – especially for a clean electric grid, net-zero carbon emissions, and drastically cutting air pollution.

gen report and ARCHES’ cross sector, multi-stakeholder hydrogen market white papers;

• Developed in consultation with state agencies – including the California Air Resources Board, the California Energy Commission, and the California Public Utilities Commission – while clearly defining agencies’ roles and responsibilities;

• Identify shared strategies to deliver projects, which may include new fi nancing models, permitting modifications, and procurement initiatives;

• Engage relevant stakeholders, including local communities, to advance equity and deliver environmental and economic benefits;

• Ensure state agencies and partners continue to pull in a shared direction to accelerate the use of renewable energy throughout our economy and increase the resilience and reliability of our energy system.

ciency.

• California is currently competing to become a federally funded Hydrogen Hub, a program that will leverage $8 billion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to establish at least four Hydrogen Hubs across the United States.

WHAT IT WILL DO:

• Create a market development strategy that is focused on leveraging hydrogen to accelerate clean energy deployment and decarbonizing our transportation and industrial sectors;

• Build on our 2022 Scoping Plan while leveraging the upcoming SB 1075 hydro-

HOW WE GOT HERE: This initiative builds on the Governor’s executive order to create an Infrastructure Strike Team to streamline projects throughout the state. The Hydrogen Strategy will be one outcome of the Infrastructure Strike Team’s hydrogen, clean energy, transportation, and zero-emission vehicle workgroups. California’s application for this federal funding was led and submitted by California’s Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES), a public private-partnership organized to create an economically sustainable, multi-sector, renewable hydrogen ecosystem that directly benefi ts California’s communities.

Barranca Elementary School was one of 12 Covina-Valley Unified School District schools to receive ENERGY STAR Certification from the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Las Palmas Middle School earned ENERGY STAR Certifi cations by meeting ventilation standards set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and rating in the top 25 percent nationwide for energy effi

Matea Mahal Smith Wins Miss Filipina International, Becomes First Winner of Filipino and Black Descent in Pageant’s 10-Year History

Matea

Mahal Smith, who was born in Coral Springs, Florida with family roots in Pililla, Rizal, Philippines, won the Miss Filipina International 2023 title in a glamorous, toptier show in the prestigious International Ballroom of The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California last Saturday, August 5.

Smith, 21, became the first winner of Filipino and Black descent in the 10-year history of the pageant. A student of Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience at University of Florida, Smith hopes to become a trauma surgeon and positively impact people’s lives.

Also the winner of the best in swimsuit competition, Smith said that she admires her Filipina mother who taught her that no matter what life throws her way, obstacles are a temporary challenge, not an end, in her journey. She loves traveling, cooking, exercising, dancing, spending time with her loved ones and listening to music.

As the top winner of MFI, now owned by Geoffrey Jimenez, who also executive produced the glittering production to be aired by GMA Network, Smith will receive a BMW 2 Series car and a $10,000 gift certificate from iSkin Beverly Hills.

Last year’s winner, Blessa Ericha Figueroa, put the stunning brand new MFI crown, made of Swiss blue topaz, Japanese pearls and other gems, custom-designed by royalty designer Narcisa Pheres, on the head of Smith. The crown was presented by Jimenez while Michelle Dee, the reigning Miss Universe Philippines, put the sash on Smith.

Amanda Russo, born in Christiana, Delaware with family roots in Angeles City, Pampanga, bagged the Miss Filipina International Tourism title. The 18-year-old Finance and International Business student at Penn State University also considers her mom as her biggest inspiration. She wants to give back to the Filipino community and find ways to better the lives of elders.

The other winners were Lauren Skeoch, First Runner-up; Patricia Bianca Tapia, Second Runner-up; and Rylen Faith Steinbuch, Third Runner-up. Russo and these winners will receive cash prizes and iSkin gift certificates.

In partnership with Jonas Gaffud’s Empire Philippines, three MFI winners will be eligible to compete next year in Miss Universe Philippines while two MFI winners will vie in The Miss Philippines pageant.

From a field of 36 lovely aspirants representing various states across America and several countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom and the Philippines, 15 semi-finalists were chosen: Denisse Nicole Samaniego, Dakota Swart, Hannah Angelica Marte, Mary Ann Monda, Rylen Faith Steinbuch, Kelly McIlroy, Beatriz Mclelland, Matea Mahal Smith, Kawena Janessa Kanhai, Lauren Skeoch, Patricia Bianca Tapia, Jessica Zemanek, Amanda Russo, Heather Casignia and Issha Rose Mata.

SÁNCHEZ... FROM PAGE 1

access to the resources you need to enjoy retirement. That is one of my biggest goals as your Congresswoman – to be a resource for you at home and strong advocate for you in Washington!”

Over 40 vendors were present at the event, offering various services for seniors, including screenings for oral health, visual, and blood oxygen. Other vendors offered information on topics like financial planning, reverse mortgages, elder rights, hous-

The winners in other categories and of sponsor awards were: best in evening gown, Manila International Film Festival Award and Enagic Water Ambassador, Beatriz Mclelland; photogenic, iSkin award and Philippine Airlines award, Rylen Faith Steinbuch; talent, Jessica Zemanek; best national costume, Hope Corpus; Miss Eloquent, Heather Casignia; best in glam, Mary Ann Monda; Jojo Bragais Walk + Win Challenge, Amanda Russo; and Legaspi Tax Ambassador, Alyanna Joelle Santos.

In the pageant co-hosted by Jeannie Mai Jenkins (“The Real”), who hosted the Miss Universe Pageant 2023 in January, and Cheryl Burke, a second-generation Filipina American TV personality, best known for the hit ABC reality show, “Dancing with the Star,” the Visionary Award was presented by Mario Lopez, via video, to Geoffrey Jimenez.

The chairman of Worldwide Media Entertainment and MFI owner was cited as “a philanthropist and true visionary who is passionate about helping his community to believe in the power of their dreams. He is not only a community leader but also an advocate and patron of Filipino talent, artistry and culture. With Miss Filipina International, Geoffrey has created a platform to amplify young Filipina voices and a home for future transformational leaders in our community.”

Jonas Gaffud, known as the “Beauty Queen King,” was honored by MFI with the Lifetime Achievement Award. The head of Empire Philippines, which holds the Miss Universe Philippines and The Miss Philippines pageants, was hailed for “offering young women more than just training. He offers them the courage to dream, the strength to persevere and the knowledge that they are capable of changing the world.”

The distinguished panel of judges on the coronation night included Michelle Dee, who will represent the Philippines in the 72nd Miss Universe in El Salvador in November; Hollywood actress Vivica A. Fox (“Kill Bill: Vol. 1,” “Independence Day” movies”); Krista Kleiner, Miss Philippines International title holder and philanthropist; Margaret Gardiner, Miss Universe title holder, author and

ing rights, and caregiver assistance.

Representatives from the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service and Social Security Administration were also available to answer individual questions.

As part of her dedication to serving her constituents, Congresswoman Sánchez had her team of caseworkers available at the Senior Fair to address individual questions.

Congresswoman Sanchez’s staff remains accessible to constituents

entertainment journalist; Richard Maghanoy, iSkin Beverly Hills CEO and Image Body Spa COO; and Michelle Narvaez, Philippine Airlines officer-in-charge country manager in the U.S.

Also among the eminent judges were Marc Anthony Nicolas, two-time Daytime Emmy-winning producer of “The Talk”; Narcisa Pheres, MFI crown designer whose clients include former First Lady Michelle Obama, Beyonce, Madonna, Taylor Swift and Jennifer Lopez; Natty Pappas, shipping executive and consultant; Alden Richards, GMA’s popular singer-actor-host; Anton San Diego, editor-in-chief of Tatler Philippines for an impressive 22 years; Voltaire Tayag, Miss Universe Philippines communications director; and Kathleen Espina Ynion, suc-

who require assistance. If seniors were not able to attend the Senior Fair, have questions, or need help finding information, Congresswoman Sánchez encourages them to contact her office by calling (562) 860 - 5050 or visiting www.lindasanchez. house.gov.

A free lunch was provided by Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District and water for the entire group was provide by the Water Replenishment District.

cessful restaurateur and wellness advocate. Francis Arden, a leading model and talent agent, and Paul Dreher, one of The Beverly Hilton’s directors of catering, joined the panel of judges in the preliminary competition, also held at the Hilton, last Friday, August 4. Accomplished and versatile performers Martin Nievera and Pops Fernandez co-hosted the equally spectacular prelims night.

Miss Ramonne and Terrell Carter performed musical numbers in the show which had multiple Emmy winner and P&L Media’s Lisa Lew, herself a Miss Philippines International title holder, as producer. GMA Network, which will air the exciting coronation night as a special, was represented by executives Joseph Jerome Francia, Joy Marcelo and Renze Banawa.

The Final 2 - Matea Mahal Smith who won the Miss Filipina International 2023 title and Ms. Filipina International Tourism Amanda Russo. Photo by Gian Barbarona

The newly crowned Ms.Filipina International 2023 Matea Mahal Smith. Photo by Gian Barbarona

The Hosts Jeannie Mae Jenkins and Cheryl Burke.

Photo by Ruben Nepales

The winners with MFI owner Geoffrey Jimenez. Photo by Gian Barbarona

The distinguished panel of Judges. Photo by Sthanlee Mirador

Two of the Judges: Michelle Dee, reigning Miss Universe Philippines and Filipino actor/entrepreneur, Alden Richards. Photo by Gian Barbarona

WCOPA UAE

After strenuous efforts and suspenseful anticipation, the long-awaited World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) 2023 has finally come to an end last August 5, 2023. Being dubbed as the ‘Talent Olympics’, the 10-day competition has proven to be of splendor and grandeur. Unquestionably, team UAE has entered with the will to win. Hailing all the way from Dubai/ Abu Dhabi/ Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, they traveled hours and touched down in Anaheim, California.

The 13 delegates’ grit and determination were demonstrated when they started the process of auditioning and practicing— years for some, and months for others. With the help of our esteemed National Director and Vocal Coach, Mr. Elipas Sibua, each delegate has gone through the meticulous process of choosing songs for their also cleverly chosen categories. Having the skill in determining which songs would suit every individual’s unique tone and range, Mr. Elipas Sibua, was a significant support and source of encouragement for everyone. When everyone came together for a team rehearsal, it fostered a deeper sense of team spirit and amity.

Being a decorated and recognized Vocal Coach, Mr. Sibua has been blessed with the ability to impart knowledge and proficiency to his students and those he mentors. He has received the award of the 2022 Outstanding Coach of the World from WCOPA and the 2023 Excellence in Performing Arts by the Filipino Social Club World Trade Center. The team was certainly privileged to have him as our Coach and National Director. Upon arrival, the team has proudly sported their grey uniforms. These have been donned throughout the competition to essentially represent their team. Seeing the other nations in their own uniforms has undoubtedly heightened the excitement and friendly competition. It was really a sight that exhibited teamwork, unity and harmony between the competing countries. To celebrate the melting pot of different cultures, they have started the opening ceremony off with a Parade of Nations. The competition

began on a high note as every team performed to demonstrate their eccentric cultures.

Ascertaining the competition’s reputation for opportunity was a Boot Camp held for one whole day during the competition. It has had activities and workshops for Singing, Dancing, Modelling and Acting. The delegates and attendees have been given the freedom to select which workshop they wished to join. These were led by reputable teachers with much experience and advice to share. It was indeed a fruitful day of learning.

After a team photoshoot, day 4 marked the Preliminary Round of the competition. Within our team, 4 delegates have fiercely competed in the Instrumental Category for various genres and the Modelling Category. In spite of any nerves, the 3 Junior Delegates and 1 Senior Delegate have professionally performed with their instrument of choice. Each one has ensured their months of practice paid off and was evident in their performances. The 3 delegates who participated in Modellinghave passionately gone up the runway. Their elegant walks and beautiful visuals surely owned the stage.

The following 2 days were the Preliminary Rounds for the fierce Vocal Category in various genres for the Juniors and the Seniors. During the performances for both Instrumental and Vocal Categories, the delegates had to have costume changes to suit the genre of their songs. Wearing glimmering and eye-catching looks added to their already unique and powerful vocals andtalent. Some delegates only had a few minutes between each song which increased the tension. However, accredited to their professionalism, each one has successfully pulled through, further exhibiting their talent and immense passion to present a smooth and powerful performance.

Finally, the semi-finals came with 8 of our delegates making it to the next round after strong competition. The 8 delegates have once again proved their will as they have gotten ready to go on stage just an hour after the semi-final announcement. As

always, the entire team was present during the semi-finalists’ performances cheering on their with much might and energy. Until the point of semi-finals, the delegates have consistently revealed their immeasurable talent and proven their merit of making it to the semi-finals. It was once again another competitive and intense event.

On the same day of semi-finals were the Go-Sees. This segment was where various talent agencies and scouts specifically selected delegates in recognition of their talents and offered opportunities to them. It further broadened the UAE delegates’ horizons as many of them were scouted by such agencies. Producers, modelling agencies, talent entertainments, film/ acting academies such as the New York Conservatory of Dramatic Arts, the New York Film Academy and the Eugene Model & Talent selected many of our delegates. They have been able to make the most of the competition by establishing these connections that are cer-

tainly helpful for their own careers.

Successfully, 2 of our delegates made it far into Grand Finals of the competition: Chloe Sarah Dsouza (Junior) and Romulo Jr. Camarines (Senior). They, along with the other finalists, spent two days preparing for the Finals. Their hard work was sincere and absolutely evident in their performance during Finals Night. We can proudly say two of our delegates were Grand-Finalists! To the very end, the team has proven their camaraderie by cheering before, during and after their individual performances.

As the competition drew toward a close, Awards Day finally arrived. All of our delegates have been awarded medals for their successful performances, some even receiving plaques for being overall division winners. The delegates can now proudly come back home with their Gold, Silver and Bronze medals. Ultimately, all the effort and time spent for the competition were worth it.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

ROHNERT PARK, Calif. (Graton Resort & Casino) — Come to Graton Resort & Casino in this hot August to enjoy your luck! Every Saturday, 12PM – 8PM, the UP TO $1 MILLION GRATON LOTTO GIVEAWAY will be held. Every play is a guaranteed win! Match the winning ball combination, for your chance to win $1 million cash, a 2023 tesla, free slot play, and more! All rewards members get one free entry each Saturday.

And, from now to August 31, every Thursday, 1PM-6PM, the ALL ABOARD SUMMER SLOT TOURNAMENTS will be held. Top prizes include $5,000 cash, 7-day cruise, and entry into the $250,000 slot championship tournament! 50 winners are guaranteed at each tournament. All reward members get one free entry into each tournament.

Graton Resort & Casino recently introduced a mobile app, which allows guests instant access to personalized offers and rewards and tracks funds for slot play. The app’s Resort Wallet™ is the first of its kind in Northern Califor-

nia, providing guests a truly cashless solution for visiting the casino/ resort. Guests can download the free app on Google Play or the App Store. All guests must be at least 21 years of age to qualify for a Rewards Card or the Graton App. Complete Graton Rewards information is available at https://www.gratonresortcasino.com)

Get ready for an exciting lineup of upcoming events that will surely light up your entertainment calendar! Tickets for each of these can be purchased online at www.gratonresortcasino.com.

• 8/1 – Full Tilt cocktail competition

• 8/5 – Chubby Checker

• 8/26 – Jay Sean / The Party at Graton Pool

• 9/1 – Rock The Dock

• 9/9 – DJ Pauly D / The Party at Graton Pool

• 9/15 – Arnel Pineda & Lani

Misalucha

• 9/23 – Jay Leno

• 9/29 & 9/30 – Thunder From Down Under

• 10/6 – Night Ranger

SO MUCH GRATITUDE AND IT’S NOT EVEN THANKSGIVING YET!

By Lydia V. Solis

Docdocil

PADAYAW is an abbreviation of the Waray-waray phrase ‘Padayon Pagsayaw’ which means to continue dancing as Leyte Dance Theatre (LDT) continues the legacy of its founder Maestro Jesus ‘Jess’ de Paz to showcase the beauty of Philippine culture.

“The Leyte Dance Theater of Jess de Paz Foundation, Inc.” said its president Lowe S. Taña, “has reached another milestone, its 30th year of artistic pursuit. This is a year of gratitude for everyone who, in one way or another, paved way to what and where LDT is now, and to the more that our foundation will become.

“Our sincerest gratitude to all LDT alumni, parents, performing group, and officers,” he added, “for your collective efforts, commitment and dedication for the LDT which have catapulted us to where we are now. To LDT performers, you are the source of inspiration and motivation of the legacy of the late Maestro Jess de Paz. To our hosts and sponsors, you are our valuable partners in honing and producing both local and international recognized dance performers.”

Consul Marie Cris Chieng was a special guest, representing the Philippine Consulate General of Los Angeles, on beha lf of Consul General Edgar B. Badajos.

“Hosted by Jules Graeser, WCOPA, World Championships of Performing Arts winners Junior New System and Cristiani Rebada, along with the very enthusiastic Chikletz Family,” according to Fred Docdocil, “made up for an amazing artistic experience for the entire family.”

Cristiani Rebada is the 2017 WCOPA Senior Gold Medalist and Grand Champion of the World; the Junior New System won the 2016 WCOPA Senior Gold Medal and the Senior Grand

SAGADA... FROM PAGE 1

colonization, these inhabitants have not been subjugated by the Conquistadors – truly worth noting.

After my last visit over 24 years ago, this small town now is almost as bucolic – the plaza, and the small buildings encircling it – as the last time I saw it. The Ganduyan Inn where I stayed also basically remains the same. In the outskirts though, there are new multi-storey hotels that are emerging. If you are fond of fast-food chains, these are the food outlets you won’t find here – the natives are so insistent of not letting them eke out their traditional fare.

The place still has its mystique, cool clime and clean, crisp air unlike that of Baguio, the Summer Capital of the Philippines. The locals are undoubtedly hospitable. My short visit to this place elicited some interviews with the natives sharing to this writer how they were able to cope with the lockdown triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic and its concomitant economic and social headwinds.

The natives were not only hardworking, they were also creative especially tourist guides and those in the travel industry who suddenly were left out in the cold of the unexpected lockdown. The people didn't have a choice; they really had to think out of the box, so to speak. They have to navigate the new norm with equal effort and enthusiasm.

"There are those who loaned for improvement of their business but

were unable to pay off due to the pandemic," says Ghie Aben who tends her souvenir shop near the plaza. "It was nice that the lenders gave the extra yard by offering moratorium due to the unexpected situation," she continues. According to her, the folks physically broke their piggy bank or totally became conscious of their spending.

It was only in 2022 when the municipality opened its door to tourism. "They were very strict. Tourists had to have a swab test for PhP900 to ensure the safety of the villagers; unfortunately that turned off the tourists, and economy suffered," Ghie explains.

Near the end of 2022, more tourists visited the town. New enforcements were promulgated: tourists must register, pay for insurance, hire a guide, and that’s besides the required vaccination card.

After this Easter, I asked Ghie about the influx of tourists in Messenger. (Holy Week is the time when most Filipinos travel because of the long holiday) She told me that in this year, "It was almost half of that in the pre-pandemic period."

Champion of the World title; and the Chikletz Family, headed by coach Francis Harry Gonzales, displayed their signature moves “with positive energy and great vibes.”

“Kudos to my good friend Nonie

Baoko, a town in the boundary of Mountain Province and Benguet. On the other hand, these traders bought bananas from us, and that made us survive."

Sagada is starting to become known in the coffee industry. Over a decade ago its coffee was one of the 70 entries that passed the international quality standard.

Vincent Melchor Andawi is a hardworking and meticulous person who raised the bar of coffee production in Sagada. This manager of the Sagada Gold Roastery has been responsible for the roasting of coffee in this town since 2011. “It was nice that the government helped us procure our equipment and machines,” Mr. Andawi enthusiastically brings up. “Not only that, the religious and other private groups did help, too,” he continues.

Mr. Mandawi says: “We have an organization of 93 farmers. We’re

Belarmino,” added Fred, “who produced the Southern California/Los Angeles leg of this US tour, in cooperation with the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of South Bay Los Angeles Area and sup -

ported by the Filipino American Community of Los Angeles. Other supporters were the FilAm Chamber of Commerce Tri-County and the FilAm Chamber of Commerce GLA, among others.

Mila, a TESDA-certified masseuse also had a hard time meeting both ends meet when she was not able to ply her massage service to tourists during the lockdown. "I didn't waste that time when I was not able to cater to my profession: instead, I did attend to gardening, sewing scrap clothing materials to sell as rugs to survive. The PhP5,000 economic assistance from the government helped, too. Furthermore, I did make use of my therapeutic massage skill to work on my relatives," she narrates. Mila adds, "It was only last November 2022 when I was able to continue doing my work."

While in Pilgrim's Haven, an inn in a secluded area of the town, I happened to meet Jonel, a gardener who was from Baguio. Today, he is tending a different kind of garden on the rocky hills beside the hostel. He says, "During the lockdown, I was stuck in Sagada. Since food was vital during the pandemic, we bought mangoes from Baguio traders in

thinking of establishing a cooperative,” Mr. Andawi explains. He mentions, “There were 3,500 kilos of hulled coffee beans that we processed during the pandemic. Fortunately, our coffee farmers were not affected significantly by this pandemic.”

The resilience of these people –unscathed by Spanish subjugations – extends also to this unexpected worldwide contagion that beset the town during this pandemic.

Just like that young banana plant in our backyard, natives in Sagada creatively weathered the storm during this pandemic to survive… and thrive.

Filipinos – as a whole – have also been known to be resilient when faced with adversities by being pliant like the ubiquitous bamboo.

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion co-authored by Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger and Third District Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath to award a contract for approximately $74.9M to a competitively selected construction company to design and build an expansive, state-ofthe-art health center in the North Hollywood community.

The construction site, located at 5300 West Tujunga Boulevard, is currently occupied by a single-story building that will soon be demolished. In its place, a new approximately 50,000

NEW... FROM PAGE 1

square foot three-story health center will be erected. The facility will have an adjacent parking lot and will include a full suite of examination rooms and laboratories to meet the medical and mental health needs of the community.

The health center will also include outdoor community gardens, a wellness center, a medical legal department and more.

“I’m pleased that we are moving the construction of this North Hollywood Health Center along,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “I’ve committed my career to advocating and tending to the health needs and overall well-being of the con-

stituents I represent. This project will deliver critical services. I will continue being vigilant to make sure this construction project comes in on time and on budget.”

Supervisor Horvath also weighed in.

“The North Hollywood Health Center charts a new direction for integrated service delivery in LA County, bringing essential physical and mental healthcare and social services under one roof,” said Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “It’s exciting to see this new model for patient-centered care move forward to bring the services of the County to the San Fernando Valley in a more holistic way.”

community through entertainment, valuable resources, and togetherness.

The event at South County included a visit from the Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders, haircuts for youths done by local vendors, and summer activities like water-balloon games. At Carmelitos, residents and community members enjoyed getting to know Long Beach community vendors through workshops, food, and music. Meanwhile in Harbor Hills, students stocked up on school supplies and lined up for stylish haircuts. With everyone’s support, more than 800 families received school supplies this year.

Other donors for this year’s events included Shelter Partnership, Los Angeles Rams Organization, Watch it Grow, The Deltas, The MAYE Center, Fadealistcutts, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funds, and the Nueva Maravilla and Harbor Hills Resident Councils who provided various resources, snacks, haircuts, and school supplies.

“The LACDA is proud of our back to school tradition for youth and their families,” said Emilio Salas, LACDA Executive Director. “This season can be stressful for families trying to get all their supplies ready, but these events allow everyone to concentrate on the exciting aspect of the season: getting to know all their new teachers, classes, and friends!”

Photos courtesy of Frederick Alain

The Leyte Dance Theater of Jesus ‘Jess’ de Paz Foundation, Inc., “enthralled and captivated” the Kagayanons of Southern California and the Philippine Independence Day Foundation members, that witnessed the artistry of the ‘world-class’ PADAYAW performers.

The Leyte Dance Theater PADAYAW ‘Padayon Pagsayaw, the USA Tour 2023’ performing artists and supporters at the Marsee Auditorium, El Camino College, Torrance, California, July 1, 2023.

SKY RIVER CASINO ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR “THE HUMIDOR,” AN ALL-NEW BOURBON & CIGAR LOUNGE

Construction will begin soon with planned opening for newest on-site offering expected later this year.

ELK GROVE, Calif. — Sky River Casino is excited to announce plans for The Humidor, an all-new bourbon and cigar lounge, which will open later this year. Construction will get underway soon for the new establishment that will be located next to 32 Brews Street, a popular sports bar and pub. Once The Humidor opens to the public, Sky River Casino will be home to a total of 18 bars, restaurants and lounge destinations offered inside the casino that is located in Elk Grove just off Highway 99.

“We are thrilled to add yet another unique and exceptional venue inside Sky River,” said Sky River Casino’s President and Chief Operating Officer

l ater sending National Guard troops to the border. Two state agencies, the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Military Department are in charge of the operation. When 16,000 migrants suddenly arrived in Del Rio in November 2021, Abbott sent 10,000 guardsmen to the border in response. Del Rio is about 55 miles north of Eagle Pass.

“The only winners from Abbott’s actions seem to be the human traffickers,” said Ortiz during an EMS media briefing. Speaking to migrants, he noted human smugglers, called coyotes, used to charge $500/per person to get across the border. The price has gone up to $1500, he says, after the floating barriers were installed.

On the other side of the border, Ortiz noted Mexican authorities appear to be “doing nothing against the smugglers,” adding there are unverified rumors that local officials there may in fact be involved in the trafficking.

A ‘glitchy app’

The Trump administration essentially stopped processing asylum claims along the US southern border during the pandemic by invoking Title 42, a public health order that allowed for the immediate expulsion of migrants.

That program ended in May. The Biden Administration subsequently announced that wouldbe asylum seekers would now be required to first schedule an appoint with Customs and Border Protection through a mobile app prior to their arrival at the border.

Gianna Borroto is the head litigator with the American Im-

Chris Gibase. “With a welcoming décor highlighted by rich, warm colors and subdued lighting, The Humidor will cater to bourbon, whiskey and cigar lovers who enjoy a relaxed environment for conversing, gaming or simply enjoying the moment.”

Bourbon and whiskey lovers will enjoy a wide range of popular brands from Macallan, Pappy Van Winkle, Whistle Pig, and Louis XIII, just to name a few. For cigar enthusiasts, all the finest brands will be offered at The Humidor.

Once opened, The Humidor will offer yet another amazing option for Sky River Casino guests to experience and enjoy along with SR Prime Steakhouse,

migration Council (AIC). It’s an impossible situation,” she says, describing the CBP One app as a “cruel measure” designed to limit who can seek asylum in this country.

AIC and its partners fi led a class action lawsuit July 27 in the district court for the Southern District of California over the CBP One app. The lawsuit challenges the Biden administration’s policy of turning away asylum seekers at ports of entry who didn’t make an appointment. The suit names ten plaintiffs who claim they couldn’t.

Besides a smartphone you need internet access to use the app. Many migrants are living in encampments without electricity or water, much less internet service. Borroto says many migrants don’t have money to buy minutes for their phones because they need what they have to buy food.

She also cited a number of problems with the CBP One app. One man couldn’t get tech support, just lines of code; one woman tried every day for months but couldn’t get an appointment; the app has just three languages but border migrants speak 20 or more, so unless they speak English, Spanish, or Creole, it’s useless; the app doesn’t upgrade easily and freezes a lot.

“Access to asylum simply cannot be restricted to a glitchy smart phone app lottery,” Borroto says. A recent ruling in a similar 2017 case gives her hope. A previous version of a turn back policy that limited access to asylum at the border was declared unlawful and in violation of the U.S. Constitution.

Borroto says AIC fi led suit to protect the fundamental right to

32 Brews Street, Dragon Beaux, River Bar, Rock Bar and The Market.

For more information about Sky River Casino and its offerings, restaurant open hours and more, please call 916866-0200 or visit www.SkyRiver.com.

Join Sky River Rewards

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seek asylum which is enshrined both in US and international law.

A history of racism

Professor and author Cal Jillson is a recognized authority on Texas politics and the politics of the US southern border. “The current situation at the border has been replayed many times over the course of American history,” Jillson said.

America has always been racist, and that racism has long informed attitudes toward migration, he said.

“Benjamin Franklin said terrible things about the German immigrants to Pennsylvania in the 1750s. The Irish were treated badly in the 1840s and 1850s. Asians were excluded completely from the 1880s well into the 1950s,” Jillson said.

He noted that in the 19th Century, the thinking of the dominant white majority in the country was effectively ‘If you’re white, y’all come’.

“But even in the early 20th Century, when the American economy was strong and labor was needed, there was a welcoming of people across the border from Mexico into the United States on the presumption that they would work cheap and go home when the work was completed.”

Cal Jillson, Professor of Political Science at Southern Methodist University and author of several books including the upcoming “Race, Ethnicity, and American Decline,” gives his perspective on why Texas Governor Greg Abbott has implemented such punishing anti-immigration measure on the Texas southern border.

Being in the competition as a delegate myself, I can attest to how much the competition was truly a learning experience that has built our confidence as performers and as individuals. Founding connections and making friends from different countries have surely solidified the memories I have of the competition. To be surrounded by so much talent from all around the world was an honor and on behalf of the UAE delegates, we are all infinitely grateful for the opportunity and for all our family and friends who eagerly supported us.

The earned awards are as follows:

Chloe Sarah Dsouza

(Junior, Age 11-12)

GRAND FINALIST (GOLD)

Gold Vocals Self Accompaniment in Pop

Division

Gold in Opera

Silver in Pop

Bronze Classical in Piano

Romulo Jr Camarines

(Senior, Age 30+)

GRAND FINALIST (GOLD)

Plaque- Champion of the WorldCountry and Western Division

Gold in Senior country and western solo vocals

Bronze in Senior Formal commercial wear

Jairamarie Ysabel

Carranza (Junior, Age 13-15)

SEMI FINALIST (SILVER)

Gold in Gospel Silver in Pop Silver in Broadway

Silver in Opera

Rex Carvalho

(Junior, Age 13-15)

Silver in Rock Silver in Pop

Ruhann Hiranandani

(Junior, Age 11-12)

SEMI FINALIST (SILVER)

Gold Vocals with Self Accompaniment

member now to receive $20 Free Play. To activate your Free Play, visit any slot machine and place a bet. Sky River Rewards enrollment can be done online using a computer, tablet, or phone with a camera.

About Sky River Casino

Sky River Casino was built by the Wilton Rancheria in partnership with Boyd Gaming Corporation, which is building and managing the property for the tribe. The casino opened in August 2022 and includes 100,000 sq ft of gaming, 2,100 slot machines, 80 table games, and 17 bars and restaurants. To learn more, visit www.SkyRiver.com.

Pop

Bronze Pop

Andrew James G. Muncay

(Senior, Age 30+)

SEMI-FINALIST (SILVER)

Bronze Medalist in Opera

Johena Peñas Luczon

(Senior, Age 30+)

SEMI-FINALIST (SILVER)

Silver Medalist in Opera

Bronze medalist in Gospel

Kim Bryalle Benoza Frost

(Senior, Age 30+)

SEMI-FINALIST (SILVER)

Silver in Vocal Contemporary Silver in Runway Casual Modeling)

Bronze in Vocal Pop

Romnick Otoc Omagap

(Senior, Age 30+)

SEMI-FINALIST (SILVER)

Charmyn Noele Binaoro (Senior, Age 25-29)

Gold in Country &western Silver in Pop

Jean Allyssah

Dimaculangan

(Senior, Age 16-17)

Plaque: Champion of the World in Vocal with self-accompaniment Pop Division

Gold in Vocals with Self-accompaniment

Pop

Silver in Instrumental Classical Piano

Silver in Vocals in Broadway

Bronze in Vocals in Gospel

Bronze in Vocals in Open

Bronze in Vocals in Jazz

Santino Antonini

(Junior, Age 8-10)

Silver in Classical

Bronze in Jazz

Bronze in Open

Zahra Ross Shariff

(Senior, Age 16-17)

Gold in Pop

Gold in Contemporary Gold in Original Works

Bronze in R&B

TEXAS... FROM PAGE 1

WCOPA FROM PAGE 4

Rising delinquencies change the housing landscape.

With a very anemic housing inventory, are we to say that foreclosures looming around us?

The recent homebuyers that have taken this low down pay risky loans will lead the pack of property defaults. These are the same high-risk loans that created the big bubble in the mid to late 2000s’. I don’t see the scale to be as large but for buyers who are looking for deals, they will come but you will have lots of buying competition for these properties.

Underwater homeowners — owing more on their mortgage than their home’s current fair market value (FMV) — are more likely to be delinquent on their mortgages than those in a positive equity position.

Nationally, 5% of mortgages originated in 2022 are underwater as of Q3 2022, and an additional 19% of mortgages originated in 2022 have less than 10% equity. Most of these no- and low-equity mortgages are FHA-insured and VAguaranteed loans, which have little to no down payment requirements.

A seller typically needs at least 10% equity to be able to sell and cover the 5%-6% broker fees as well as pay for any necessary repairs, improvements or other seller concessions demanded in a buyer’s market.

Without at least 10% equity in a property, a traditional sale is not possible, and foreclosure follows when mortgage payments are not paid. As this dynamic snowball in 2023-2025, a rise in real estate owned (REO) property will occur as the number of bank-owned properties balloons.

Generally, when going into foreclosure season, mortgage lenders are without staff to properly manage pricing at trustee’s sale or work out payment moratoriums for recently unemployed homeowners. Thus, the lender starts foreclosure and bids on the property for the debt rather

than accept a market price at the auction a 3rd party bidder is willing to pay. The result is the lender becomes the owner, and the property becomes classified as REO inventory.

Real estate agents are preparing to work with REO properties and maybe short selling might be coming back. Preparing to invest as a real estate syndicator who purchases REO property at a steep discount for a long-term rental property investment; becoming a property manager of REO property to ensure regular income when traditional listings are sparse; and acting as a listing agent of REO property by making contacts with mortgage servicing companies which will soon see their REO inventory rise to an unmanageable number.

January 2023 U.S. Foreclosure Market Report, which shows there were a total of 31,557 U.S. properties with foreclosure filings — default notices, scheduled auctions or bank repossessions – up 36 percent from a year ago, and up 2 percent from the prior month.

” The uptick in overall foreclosure filings nationwide points toward a trend that may suggest more increased activity is on the horizon as we enter the new year,” said ATTOM CEO Rob Barber.” While both completed foreclosures and foreclosures starts have stalled slightly over the past month, the annual increase in overall activity seen over the past 21 months may indicate a more substantial trend that could continue into 2023.”

Lenders repossessed 3,896 U.S. properties through completed foreclosures (REOs) in January 2023, up 6 percent from last month but down 19 percent from last year – the first annual decrease in completed foreclosures since June 2021.

States that had at least 100 or more REOs and that saw the greatest annual

decreases in January 2023 included: Florida (down 53 percent); Maryland (down 23 percent); Michigan (down 22 percent); New Jersey (down 15 percent); and Texas (down 14 percent).

Counter to the national trend, only 3 states with 100 or more REOs in January 2023 saw an annual increase, including: New York (up 76 percent); Pennsylvania (up 12 percent); and California (up 4 percent).

Those major metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) with a population greater than 200,000 that saw the greatest number of REOs included: Detroit, MI (783 REOs); Chicago, IL (206 REOs); New York, NY (149 REOs); Philadelphia, PA (100 REOs); and Riverside, CA (66 REOs).

Highest foreclosure rates in Delaware, Illinois, and Michigan

Nationwide one in every 4,425 housing units had a foreclosure filing in January 2023. States with the highest foreclosure rates were Delaware (one in every 2,109 housing units with a foreclosure filing); Illinois (one in every 2,279 housing units); Michigan (one in every 2,617 housing units); New Jersey (one in every 2,858 housing units); and Maryland (one in every 2,967 housing units).

Among the 223 metropolitan statistical areas with a population of at least 200,000, those with the highest foreclosure rates in January 2023 were Fayetteville, NC (one in every 1,322 housing units with a foreclosure filing); Bakersfield, CA (one in every 1,522 housing units); Cleveland, OH (one in every 1,557 housing units); Detroit, MI (one in every 1,575 housing units); and Laredo, TX (one in every 1,953 housing units).

Other than Cleveland and Detroit, among the metropolitan areas with a population greater than 1 million, those with the worst foreclosure rates in January 2023 included: Chicago, IL (one in every 2,074 housing units); Riverside, CA (one in every 2,123 housing units); and Las Vegas, NV (one in every 2,341 housing units).

Foreclosure starts increase monthly in 31 states including the District of Colombia

Lenders started the foreclosure process on 20,752 U.S. properties in January 2023, down 1 percent from last month but up 75 percent from a year ago.

Those states that saw the greatest number of foreclosures starts in January 2023 included: California (2,513 foreclosure starts); Texas (2,136 foreclosure starts); Florida (1,725 foreclosure starts); New York (1,375 foreclosure starts); and Illinois (1,309 foreclosure starts).

Among those major metropolitan statistical areas with a population of at least 200,000, those with the greatest number of foreclosure starts in January 2023, included: New York, NY (1,370 foreclosure starts); Chicago, IL (1,156 foreclosure starts); Los Angeles, CA (774 foreclosure starts); Houston, TX (629 foreclosure starts); and Philadelphia, PA (612 foreclosure starts).

Thanks for your inquiries, call Ken Go of 1st Innovative Finance Group for your home mortgage needs, call 562-5087048 or write to kennethgo@verizon.net CABRE 01021223 NMLS 238636

GLOBAL NEWS

DENR chief Loyzaga says all 22 Manila Bay reclamation projects suspended

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga said Thursday that all reclamation projects in Manila Bay are under review.

At a Palace press briefing, Loyzaga said there are a total of 22 reclamation projects in Manila Bay that are under review and thus are deemed suspended.

.President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. earlier this week disclosed that all reclamation projects in Manila Bay except one have been suspended due to problems in their implementation.

Marcos did not specify which projects have been suspended, but he lamented that the sea along Roxas Boulevard could disappear due to the reclamation projects.

The DENR said it has been conducting cumulative impact assessments on the reclamation projects to demonstrate their effects on Manila Bay.

At least three senators have welcomed Marcos’ decision, including Senate environment and natural resources committee chairperson Cynthia Villar who earlier warned that the reclamation projects in Manila Bay may cause six to eight-meter flooding in Las Piñas and other nearby areas.

During a Senate hearing on Wednesday, Villar claimed that Loyzaga is “afraid” of the influential people who are pushing for the reclamation projects in Manila Bay.

But during Thursday’s Palace briefing, Loyzaga said she is not “easily scared.”

At the House of Representatives, meanwhile, ACT-CIS party-list lawmaker and Deputy Majority Leader Erwin Tulfo has filed a resolution seeking a probe on the status of the Manila Bay reclamation projects.

Tulfo’s House Resolution 1171 wants to find out if there is a “national security risk” in the reclamation projects because of the involvement of Chinese firms.

The resolution also mentions that no less than Speaker Martin Romualdez raised concerns about the projects.

Before Tulfo sought inquiry, the US Embassy in Manila, which is situated by the Manila Bay, already raised concerns on the reclamation projects for the projects’ ties with China Communications Construction Co., a firm cited by the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank for engaging in fraudulent business practices.

“We are also concerned that the projects have ties to the China Communications Construction Co., which has been added to the US Department of Commerce’s Entity List for its role in helping the Chinese military construct and militarize artificial islands in the South China Sea,” said Embassy spokesperson Kanishka Gangopadhyay last week.

In the same resolution, Tulfo noted that while the ongoing land reclamation may offer potential economic benefits and development opportunities, they can also have huge environmental impacts. (MNS)

CAREGIVER LAW OVERVIEW FOR 2023. A MUST READ FOR ALL CALIFORNIA CAREGIVERS.

Working as a caregiver in a private home is hard work. If this is your job, you probably work long hours and return home physically and emotionally drained. You may provide 24-hour, live-in help to the elderly or incapacitated.

Many residential private households and agencies ignore overtime laws. These violations can deprive caregivers of significant wages totaling thousands and even hundreds of thousands of dollars. If you are a caregiver employed by someone who refuses to follow wage and hour laws, you may be entitled to significant compensation.

Reading up on your rights is the first step toward claiming what you are due. Discussing the matter with an experienced attorney at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson is the next and most important step.

When employers refuse to pay caregivers the legally required minimum or overtime wages, it is a form of wage theft. The employers are essentially stealing wages from workers who care for the elderly.

Thankfully, California law sets minimum requirements for a caregiver’s wages and working conditions. These laws include a minimum wage and overtime in most circumstances. In 2023, the minimum pay for a 24-hour, live-in caregiver, providing one-on-one care to a patient inside a patients’ home is $488.25 a day. An employer has no right to pay an employee less than this amount, and anyone who does engages in wage theft.

Wage theft takes many forms and may include failing to pay for sleep or “on call” time, paying a weekly or daily salary that is too low or

t This

classifying an in-home caregiver as an “independent contractor” to circumvent California’s wage and hour laws.

On January 1, 2014, California enacted the Domestic Worker Bill of Rights (DWBR). The DWBR mandates overtime payments for personal attendants. This law provides that an employer cannot hire personal attendants to work more than nine hours in a day or 45 hours in a workweek without paying overtime.

Overtime under the DWBR is set at one and one-half times the employee’s regular rate of pay. That means that if you are an in-home caregiver, you are entitled to 150% of your hourly wage for every hour you work over nine hours in any given day, and all hours you work beyond 45 hours in a week.

Now that the California legislature has created the right to overtime for personal attendants, an in-home caregiver who is not paid the required overtime wages can claim their unpaid wages. You can recover not just the overtime you are due, but also attorney’s fees and costs incurred in the lawsuit. It is also possible to recover interest and penalties if you are not properly paid overtime compensation.

If you are a caregiver and you believe that your employer has not paid you fairly under the law, you may have a strong case for compensation. Since the laws in this area are complex, you should contact an experienced attorney who has a documented and demonstrated expertise in representing caregivers. The attorneys at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson have the experience you need. We are here to help!

at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson. Our office is located at 32107 Lindero Canyon Rd., Suite 121, Westlake Village, California. We accept cases throughout all of Northern and Southern California. 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. Please visit us at www.caregiverovertime.com/ to learn more about caregiver overtime law.

BI favors ‘disincentivizing’ victims reengaging in illicit work

“We support the recommendation of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) to disincentivize victims who again depart without proper documentation, or end up in similar companies here in the Philippines,” he said.

Tansingco made the remark following a conducted raid against a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) company in Pasay City last Aug. 1.

According to the IACAT, one of the workers caught during the operation was a formerly rescued victim in a scam firm in Myanmar.

Tansingco expressed dismay, noting the assistance provided by the government to repatriated victims.

“It’s disheartening to see these victims being exploited over and over again,” he said.

No proposed amnesty

Meanwhile, the BI denied reports that it is set to propose an amnesty grant for illegal aliens, including overstaying foreigners and POGO workers.

In an earlier statement, Tansingco insisted such a claim is “baseless,” including the BI’s alleged plan to collect PHP2 billion worth of fines and penalties from illegal aliens.

“No such proposal has been submitted by the BI... We are an implementing agency and amnesty would require a new law passed by Congress,” he said.

Tansingco debunked reports claiming that the BI submitted an amnesty draft proposal to the Department of Justice, quoting Immigration deputy commissioner Daniel Laogan.

Laogan was quoted saying that an illegal alien shall pay at least PHP25,000 per year of overstay in the Philippines.

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Wednesday expressed its support to disincentivize rescued trafficking victims who will opt to reengage in similar illicit work.

In a statement, BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said this move shall prevent rescued Filipino workers from going back to their illegal employers.

Typical aid provided by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to repatriated victims include legal assistance, financial aid and psychosocial interventions, among others.

Besides disincentivizing, Tansingco underscored the need for whole-of-government programs to discourage Filipino workers from accepting illegal offers.

“Such statements are unauthorized and figures are baseless... His statements are careless and dangerous,” Tansingco said.

He reiterated that the proposal is not on the table.

He also warned the public against illegal groups allegedly selling slots for the supposed amnesty via social messaging applications. (MNS)

PCG official slams Filipinos defending China in fresh maritime row

MANILA (Mabuhay) — A Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) official on Thursday slammed Filipinos defending China amid fresh tensions between Manila and Beijing over a confrontation in the West Philippine Sea last weekend, calling them “unpatriotic” and “traitors.”

“If you are a Filipino, whether in government or private sector, regardless of your politics, defending and making excuses for China’s aggressive behavior should deem you unpatriotic, and a traitor to the Philippines and to our people,” said Cmdr. Jay Tar-

riela, PCG spokesperson on the West Philippine Sea.

“Given current developments in the West Philippine Sea, it is important to show loyalty to country,” he said in a tweet.

Tarriela also said that while Filipinos have the constitutional right to freely voice their opinions on the issue, their freedom of speech should not be misused to act as Beijing’s mouthpiece.

“All Filipinos should unite in calling out China’s aggressive and unlawful actions in the West Philippine Sea. Together, we should

stand united in protecting our nation’s interests and pursuing a peaceful resolution to the issues,” he added, but did not disclose specific individuals whom he was referring to.

“Dahil sa West Philippine Sea ang yaman nito ay para sa Pilipino,” Tarriela also asserted.

The Second Thomas Shoal, which Manila calls the Ayungin Shoal, has become the flashpoint of a new word war between the Philippines and China, after PCG accused the Chinese Coast Guard of blocking and blasting water

cannons at its boats attempting to resupply Filipino troops garrisoned in the hotly contested area.

Despite calls from Beijing for Manila to remove its outpost in the shoal—the dilapidated, World War II-era warship BRP Sierra Madre—Philippine officials maintained that they would not give in to China’s demands, as Ayungin was well within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) under international law.

“We will never abandon Ayungin Shoal. We are committed to Ayungin Shoal,” National Se-

curity Council assistant director general Jonathan Malaya earlier said in a press conference Monday.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself said that there was no agreement between Manila and Beijing to remove the BRP Sierra Madre.

“I’m not aware of any such arrangement or agreement that the Philippines will remove from its own territory its ship... And let me go further, if there does exist such an agreement, I rescind that agreement now,” Marcos said. (MNS)

article is an attorney advertisement written by Daniel Chaleff, employment law attorney

BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco

Gov’t on track to meet mediumterm fiscal framework targets

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The government is on track to meet its medium-term fiscal framework (MTFF) goals that would help the country achieve economic transformation, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said on Thursday.

During the briefing by the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) on the proposed PHP5.768-trillion 2024 national budget, Diokno said the economic team has set the MTFF targets to achieve the 8-point socioeconomic agenda of the Marcos administration by 2028.

He said the Department of Finance (DOF) aims to (1) bring down debt-to-gross domestic product (GDP) ratio to less than 60 percent by 2025; (2) reduce deficitto-GDP ratio to 3 percent by 2028; and (3) maintain investment in infrastructure at 5 to 6 percent of GDP annually. In 2022, infrastructure spending was at 5 percent.

In terms of revenue, Diokno said tax revenue is projected to increase from PHP3.5 trillion in 2023 to PHP6.5 trillion pesos in 2028, or from 14.4 to 16.9 percent of GDP.

Meanwhile, non-tax revenue is estimated to grow from PHP191.1 billion in 2023 to PHP183.7 billion in 2028.

“We are on track to meet the MTFP targets. In fact, in 2022, the national government revenue collections increased by 18 percent year-on-year and exceeded the DBCC targets,” he said. “Similarly, in the first semester of 2023, revenues grew by 7.7 percent and exceeded the DBCC targets.”

He said the DOF also implemented the fiscal consolidation program to further drive down the debt-to-GDP ratio, which along with the projected high GDP growth, is expected to bring the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio to almost below 60 percent by 2025.

“Our actual debt-toGDP last year of 60.9 percent is significantly lower than the 62.0 percent MTFF commitment. And with our deficit program down to 6.1 percent this year and 5.1 percent next year, we are confident that we will be able to achieve the MTFF nearterm target of reducing our debt-to-GDP ratio to below 60 percent by 2025, if not earlier,” he said.

He said the finance department has identified legislative priorities to stay on track in achieving the government’s MTFF targets.

These include the passage of the remaining tax reform packages of

the previous administration, the excise tax on single-use plastics (SUP), rationalization of mining fiscal regime, motor vehicle road users tax, excise tax on sweetened beverage and junk food, tax on pre-mixed alcohol, value added tax on digital service providers, carbon taxation, capital market development bill, and the military and uniformed personnel pension reform bill.

“We will continue to work with Congress in pushing for key reforms crucial to accelerating economic development,” he said. “These tax revenue measures will enable us to raise revenues totaling PHP120.5 billion or 0.5 percent of GDP in 2024 and PHP183.2 billion or 0.6 percent of GDP in 2026.”

Flood control projects

During the same briefing, CIBAC Party-List Representative Eddie Villanueva called for a tighter scrutiny of flood control budgets lodged in separate agencies in the proposed 2024 national budget.

Villanueva noted that several provinces in Luzon, particularly Bulacan and Pampanga, were heavily submerged in floods caused by the heavy rains of Typhoons Egay and Falcon.

He said this occurred despite a PHP280-billion allocation in the 2023 budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for flood control management program, as well as other flood mitigation projects in the budgets of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), National Irrigation Administration (NIA) and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

“Naalala ko po sa aming pagsilip po sa 2024 National Expenditure Program o NEP, almost the same kinds of projects ang popondohan for next year (I remember while looking at the 2024 National Expenditure Program or NEP, almost the same kinds of projects are funded for next year),” Villanueva said.

“Puro (All are) flood control structures along rivers, slope protection, revetment, river wall, etc. These are the kinds of projects na pinopondohan natin in the previous years pero palala pa rin nang palala ang pagbaha sa ating bansa. Gusto ko sanang malaman kung effective ba ang ganitong approach? Heto ba ang solusyon sa problema natin sa pagbaha? (These are the kinds of projects that we are funding in the

previous years, but the country still faces worsening floods. I want to know if this approach is effective? Is this the solution to our flood problem?” he queried. He said the funding against flood amounts to PHP1 billion daily. He emphasized the need to assess whether these flood control projects are effectively implemented to ensure accountability.

“Bigyan po natin ng special na pagsilip ang mga flood control budgets during this budget season (We need to put the flood control budget under

special scrutiny this budget season),” he said.

Budget and Management Secretary Pangandaman, in response, said a total of PHP255 billion has been provided in the NEP under the DPWH budget, as well as foreign-assisted projects.

“Maybe in the implementation or maybe prioritization again of our flood control projects, we can relay the same to the secretary of DPWH,” Pangandaman said.

Speaker Martin Romualdez gave the House five weeks to pass the 2024 General Appropriations

Bill, with around four weeks for committee deliberations and another week for plenary debates. Romualdez urged House members to actively participate in the budget deliberation, listen and respect everyone’s view, particularly the concerns of those from the minority, and reach a consensus that is beneficial to the country, especially to the poor and marginalized among the people.

“Together, let us be a champion of fiscal prudence, effective resource allocation, and transparent governance,” he said. (MNS)

Agencies asked to submit catch-up plans to address underspending

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary

Amenah Pangandaman has directed government agencies to submit catch-up plans following the below-programmed spending in the first half of 2023.

The directive was issued Aug. 9 by Pangandaman through Circular Letter 2023-10 after the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) data showed that government spending in the first six months of this year reached PHP2.411 trillion, which is PHP170.5 billion, or 6.6 percent, below the PHP2.582

trillion programmed for the period.

Compared to the endJune 2022 level, government expenditures as of end-June this year rose by 0.42 percent compared to last year’s PHP2.401 trillion.

In a statement, Pangandaman pointed out that this year’s PHP5.268 trillion national budget “was enacted to fund programs, activities, and projects (PAPs) in support of the country’s economic transformation with the overarching goal of inclusive and sustainable growth.”

She added that this year’s spending target is aimed to help achieve the government’s 6-7 percent gross domestic product (GDP) growth target for the year.

“Given the sizeable FY 2023 national budget, government agencies shall execute their programs and projects as authorized in the annual budget and deliver planned results in a timely manner to help buttress robust economic growth,” she said.

Although initial fiscal data traced the below-target spending to ongoing projects and program im-

BuCor chief lauds PBBM appointment of new deputy director

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Prison reforms being undertaken by the Bureau of Corrections (Bucor) are expected to be expedited following the appointment by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of a new deputy director general.

In a statement on Wednesday, BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said he “welcome(s) the appointment of Gil Tisado Torralba as Deputy Director General for Operations at the Bureau of Corrections.”

“We are looking on how we can improve more and Torralba’s appointment will give us a big boost due to his experiences as former police superintendent and provincial warden,” he said, adding that the order from the Office of Justice Secretary Jesus Remulla was dated Aug. 7.

Last Aug. 7, Catapang announced that Senior Insp. Angelina Bautista has been relieved from her post to give her an opportunity to clear her name in line with the Senate investigation on her alleged involve-

ment in prison anomalies.

“As guided by the on-going investigation in Congress, we are presently reviewing the privileges granted to PDLs (persons deprived of liberty) starting with the visitations, food deliveries, remittances and accounting of our PDLs, while balancing the right to life and the right to health of PDLs,” Catapang told senators during a hearing on Tuesday.

He said BuCor hired 1,000 correction officers last year and is hiring additional 1,000 this year.

He said the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) also approved the hiring of another 1,000 correction officers next year.

“They will constitute the new blood of BuCor who will regain the trust and confidence of the Filipino people. We will therefore have a total of 3,000 new correction officers by end of 2024, who will represent the beginning of a reformed BuCor,” he added. (MNS)

plementation of the various government agencies, as well as the “billings or payment concerns or issues”, the Budget chief stressed that “there is a need to ascertain the underlying causes or reasons for the underperformance and undertake measures to address them.”

“As what I would always emphasize, we consider budget utilization rates (BURs)

in evaluating the absorptive capacity of agencies. We view low utilization rate as the agency’s limited capacity to utilize new funds. However, those agencies who need to increase their utilization rates have promised to produce catch-up plans during the budget deliberations. So, we hope that their BURs will increase by then,” Pangandaman said. (MNS)

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippines and the United States “have identified concrete steps” to keep the traditional alliance “relevant and responsive to current emerging challenges in the defense, security and economic spheres,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Wednesday, about a week after China’s latest aggression in the West Philippine Sea. Marcos Jr. did not identify what these concrete steps were, but noted that these were “a testament to the positive bilateral relations” between Manila and Washington.

“President Joe Biden and I have identified concrete steps to ensure that our alliance and partnership remains relevant, responsive to current emerging challenges in the defense, security and economic spheres,” he said during his meeting with the US-ASEAN Business Council in Malacañang.

“The US remains the leading strategic investment and trade partner in the Philippines,” he said.

Engagements between the traditional allies have been “grounded on a 2-prong foreign policy

approach and that is the promotion of peace, and of course of national interest,” Marcos Jr. said.

“By shoring up our individual and collective capabilities, we are able to advance our countries’ as well as the Indo-Pacific region’s security, stability & economic prosperity,” he said.

“I certainly welcome the U.S. government’s commitment to follow through with major economic initiatives and it is my hope that we will be able to see them come into fruition in the succeeding months,” he said.

Marcos Jr. said he is pushing for the further enhancement of the economic partnerships between the Philippines and the US, especially in “critical sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, clean energy… and minerals.”

“We hope to cement the Philippines’ position as a strategic partner of the United States, in terms of processing critical minerals for battery applications, and we hope to move the Philippines from the upstream to the midstream in battery development and supply chain,” he said.

US Ambassador Mary

Kay Carlson told Marcos Jr. that the US is “very honored” to be an ally of the Philippines.

“Economic security is national security, and we in the United States are very honored to be your steadfast friends, your allies, and also your key partner in prosperity,” she said.

The reiteration of the strong ties between Manila and Washington comes days after Chinese ships blocked and used water cannons against Philippine vessels delivering supplies to Ayungin Shoal.

The United States was among the countries that condemned China’s “dangerous” behavior in the strategic waterway that falls within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

Beijing, on the other hand, tried to justify its actions by alleging that the Philippines has committed to remove the BRP Sierra Madre — an old warship that is being used as a garrison — from the Ayungin Shoal.

Marcos Jr. refuted China’s claim, saying no such agreement was forged, and should there be one he would rescind it. (MNS)

PH, US to keep alliance ‘relevant, responsive’ to emerging defense, economic challenges: Marcos Jr.

PAF, US Air Force crew members train on airborne HADR ops

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Philippine Air Force (PAF)

Lockheed C-130 “Hercules” transport aircraft crew members together with its United States Air Force (USAF) counterparts and participants from 12 other air forces will participate in exercises essential to airborne humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) from Aug. 14 to 18.

In a statement Wednesday night, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said participants to the Pacific Airlift Rally 2023 (PAR-23) would be provided with airborne training exercises, airlift operations, logistical planning table-top exercises and subject matter expert exchanges (SMEE)

that will focus on HADR operations.

“Participants will practice mission planning, cargo handling and loading, multinational air-land and airdrop operations, as well as medical transport operations among others,” she added.

Aside from the PAF and the USAF, other participating nations in PAR-23 include Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Brunei, Canada, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Timor-Leste.

These training activities will be held in the Philippines with different activities happening at Clark Air Base, Mabalacat, Pam-

panga; Villamor Air Base, Pasay City; and Brig. Gen. Benito N. Ebuen Air Base, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

Castillo said PAF C-130s from the 220th Airlift Wing at Brig. Gen. Benito N. Ebuen Air Base, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, will take part in the exercise together with C-130s from the USAF, Japan Air Self-Defense Force, Royal Malaysian Air Force and Indonesian Air Force for the flight training portion of the PAR-23 Field Training Exercise (FTX).

The PAF, together with multinational military operations and logistics planners, will also conduct the PAR-23 Multinational Table-Top Exercise (TTX)

that will center on HADR airlift operations and logistical planning for aircraft deployment staging, cargo and movement mission planning and multinational airlift capability analysis for airlift mission schedule prioritization.

Castillo said these are all vital components in airlift mission planning essential not only for local operations but also during multinational HADR operations.

“Various SMEEs will also take place as part

of PAR-23. These include SMEEs on C-130 aircraft maintenance, austere and expeditionary medicine, advance patient movement and evacuation, air force defense and force protection, building resiliency through military bands and chaplain service-related topics,” Castillo said. (MNS)

PBBM open to planned PH-US deal to improve nursing sector

MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is seeking a review of the possible partnership between the Philippines and the United States to strengthen the nursing industry of both countries, Malacañang said Wednesday.

In a statement, Communication Secretary Cheloy Garafil said Marcos is open to the idea of forging an agreement with the US to elevate the nursing profession and address the problems besetting the sector.

“Let’s look into it... I’m sure if we figure out the details, that probably… sounds like a good idea,” Marcos said, as quoted by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).

CHED:

This developed after US Senator Tammy Duckworth, who paid Marcos a courtesy visit at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday, raised the possibility of sending American students to nursing schools in the Philippines.

Marcos said he wants to study the proposal before making any decision.

“We do have a problem with our nurses leaving and going abroad and finding good jobs abroad. And we certainly encourage that. We’re not about to hold them back,” Marcos said during his meeting with Duckworth.

“But we need to find these new schemes

so that the brain drain is not quite severe as it is now. We have a shortage, I think, at every level in our health care system and much of the reason behind that is the talent leaving the Philippines to find better positions. But certainly, we should examine that.”

While there is no formal agreement yet, Marcos and Duckworth agreed that the proposal would benefit the two countries.

Duckworth noted that Filipino nurses could pass the licensure examinations for nursing in the US.

She also acknowledged that the US has a lack of nursing programs, adding that the

country has more nursing students than nursing educators.

“You know, it would be really interesting to see if we could send American students to nursing schools in the Philippines because, obviously, you’re teaching to a standard that they can meet licensure in the US. But we don’t have enough nursing programs in the United States,” Duckworth said.

“We don’t have enough nursing educators in the United States because we just don’t have enough of them, and we have students who want to enter nursing schools but there are not enough space for them.” (MNS)

World-class

quality education accessible even outside NCR

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on Tuesday said the world-class quality of higher education is not only limited or accessible in Metro Manila.

The Comelec made a statement as it lauded the Samar State University (SSU) for topping all universities worldwide in the 2023 World University Rankings for Innovation’s (WURI) 4th Industrial Revolution category.

CHED Chairperson J. Prospero de Vera III said the global

“Malinaw na

kasyon (It’s clear that you don’t need to go to Metro Manila to access quality education),” he said.

De Vera said state universities in provinces also offer competitive programs.

“Pwede kang mag-aral sa SSU at iba pang mga pampublikong pamantasan na libre at dekalidad ang mga programa (You may study in SSU and other public universities that offer free and quality programs),” he added.

projects are two of the numerous projects made and implemented by its research centers.

“SSU is the only Philippine higher education institution that landed on the highest spot for two consecutive years as WURI analyzes the universities’ real contributions along industrial application; value-creating; social responsibility, ethics, and integrity; student mobility and openness; crisis management; and progress during the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” she said.

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippines and Canada are looking to have more practical partnerships in disaster resilience as part of efforts to boost defense cooperation.

This came following the Aug. 4 meeting between Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. and Canada Ambassador to the Philippines David Bruce Hartman at DND headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

spot for its innovative projects.

The WURI recognized the SSU’s “3D Visualization of Citywide Geohazard Mapping and Simulation of What-if Scenarios using Geospatial Research and Data Analytics” project this year, as well as its “Smart Edubox ─A Wireless Sensor Based Educational Service Delivery” project last 2022.

SSU president Marilyn Cardoso

This is the second time that the SSU garnered the highest said these

The CHED, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and local government units (LGUs) provide support to the SSU’s research centers.

Earlier, de Vera vowed to continue boosting internationalization efforts through bridging partnerships between the Philippine higher education institutions (HEIs) and international universities.

He also urged more HEIs to join the global ranking to assess their year-by-year performance and accomplishments.

To date, there are 52 Philippine HEIs included in global ranking cited in WURI, Quacquarelli Symonds (QS World, Asia, and Stars), and Times Higher Education (THE World, Asia, and Impact Rankings).

“The two officials committed to pursue practical cooperation on disaster resilience as well as education and training, among other initiatives between the Philippine and Canadian defense establishments, through capacity-building projects,” DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement over the weekend.

In the same meeting, Hartman also acknowledged the Indo-Pacific’s importance and expressed Canada’s intent to increase its presence in the region.

“With the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Canada in 2024, Secretary Teodoro remarked how timely Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy is as it aligns with the DND’s thrust to strengthen its defense partnerships with like-minded states in addressing pressing and emerging security concerns in the region,” Andolong said.

Both nations expressed their readiness to conclude the Memorandum of Understanding on Defense Cooperation as a means to further commemorate this bilateral milestone.

“In addition, Secretary Teodoro took the opportunity to reiterate the DND’s invitation to Canada’s Minister of National Defense for an official visit to the Philippines to discuss areas of mutual concern, and ways to advance bilateral defense relations,” Andolong said. (MNS)

PH, Canada eye enhanced ties on disaster resilience, defense

NEDA chief: Gov’t must improve Filipinos’ access to basic services

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The government must work to improve the Filipinos’ access to basic services with the correct programs in place, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said.

Appearing before the House of Representatives appropriations panel for the 2024 budget deliberations, Balisacan described the income inequality in the country as “high” and “disturbing.”

“Income inequality in the country is quite high, and even more disturbing is the inequality in economic opportunities. I think we should be

looking at that more closely,” the country’s Socioeconomic Planning chief said.

“When I say inequality, it is inequality in access to health, access to education, access to livelihood, access to housing programs. We must improve the access to basic services,” he added.

Balisacan issued the reply when Nueva Ecija Representative Ria Vergara called on the economic managers to come up with a progressive tax system, such as taxing luxury items like watches, to address the income inequality in the country.

Balisacan said that govern-

ment programs in place address these main dimensions of inequality, and that the government should keep at it to make a dent.

Under the proposed P5.768 trillion national budget for 2024, the Marcos administration earmarked P112 billion for the Conditional Cash Transfer for the poor which is up from P102 billion in 2023.

Likewise, the proposed budget increased allocation for social pension for indigent senior citizens at P49 billion from P25 billion this year.

The proposal also has P9 billion for the national housing program and another P1.89 bil-

lion for food stamps program, among others.

“If we do these over time, we would see how it (inequality) would come down,” Balisacan said.

Balisacan also backed Vergara’s call for progressive taxation.

“I like your point on progressive taxation. I am in favor of it. Why are we taxing public utilities? Why don’t we tax luxury vehicles that add to the traffic jam?” he said.

“These are the many things we can think about to improve access to social, economic and even political opportunities,” he added. (MNS)

Big chunk of DOTr’s 2024 budget allotted for infra development

MANILA (Mabuhay) — A substantial portion of the proposed PHP214.3 billion budget of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) for 2024 will be earmarked for the implementation of the Marcos administration’s “Build Better More” infrastructure program, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said Thursday.

In a statement, the DBM said a total of PHP176.4 billion of the DOTr’s proposed 2024 allocation would go to its Public Sector Infrastructure budget, fostering high-impact infrastructure flagship public transport projects approved by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board.

The infrastructure projects include the North-South Commuter Railway System and the Metro Manila Subway Project Phase I under the Rail Transport Program; the Land Public Transportation Program; and the Aviation and Maritime Infrastructure Programs of the DOTr.

The DBM said the Rail Transport Program would receive more than 76.4 percent of the proposed budget for infrastructure development to facilitate the improvement and construction of modern railway systems.

“The investment will include projects, such as the North-South Commuter Railway System, the Metro Manila Subway Project Phase I, LRT (Light Rail Transit) Line 1 Cavite Extension Project, the Philippine National Railways South Long Haul Project, and the MRT (Metro Rail Transit) Line 3 Rehabilitation Project,” it said.

The DBM said about PHP76.3 billion would be allocated for the develop-

ment of the North-South Commuter Railway System, which will connect New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac to Calamba, Laguna.

A total of PHP68.4 billion would be used for the Metro Manila Subway Project Phase I, which will consist of 15 stations from Valenzuela City to Pasay City.

The government will allot PHP4.7 billion for the LRT Line 1 Cavite Extension Project, which will add 11 km. to the existing railway system; PHP3.1 billion for the Philippine National Railways South Long Haul Project, which will reconstruct the PNR South Main Line; and PHP2.9 billion for the MRT 3 Rehabilitation Project.

The DBM said the Land Public Transportation Program would get some PHP6.4 billion for several infrastructure projects.

About PHP1 billion would be tapped for the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project; PHP909 million for EDSA Busway Project; PHP700 million for Cebu Bus Rapid Transit Project; PHP500 million for Active

Transport Bike Share System and Safe Pathways Program in Metropolitan Areas; and PHP263 million for EDSA Greenways Project.

The DBM said the Aviation Program, which focuses on modernizing and developing airports nationwide, would be allocated PHP6.1 billion.

“Investments include projects the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (PHP1.6 billion); Kalibo International Airport (PHP581 million); Laoag International Airport (PHP500 million); Tacloban Airport (PHP500 million); Busuanga Airport (PHP405 million); New Zamboanga International Airport (PHP300 million); New Manila International Airport (PHP200 million); Bukidnon Airport (PHP120 million); New Dumaguete Airport Development Project (PHP500 million); and the New Bohol Airport Construction and Sustainable Environment Protection Projects (PHP97 million),” it said.

To improve air traffic management, the DBM said PHP1.3 billion would be allotted to the new Communications, Navigation, and Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) System Development Project.

The DBM said the DOTr’s Maritime Infrastructure Program would receive PHP988 million, inclusive of PHP625 million for the Maritime Safety Enhancement Project and PHP134 million for the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project Phase I.

It added that the budget for maritime infrastructure projects would be used to improve response to maritime incidents and enhance the conduct of

PBBM assures Filipino athletes of administration’s continued support; thanks them for bringing pride to the country

MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. assured Filipino athletes on Wednesday of the administration’s full support as part of the government’s way of paying back their sacrifices and hard work to put the Philippines on a higher pedestal in the world of sports.

“Lagi nating sinasabi ipinagmamalaki namin kayo. Totoo naman, ipinagmamalaki namin kayo,” President Marcos said during the awarding of incentives to athletes who brought home medals from the 32nd Southeast Asia (SEA) Games and the 12th ASEAN Para Games.

President Marcos led the distribution of incentives at the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday.

“Dapat naman susuklian namin ang inyong ginawang sakripisyo, ang inyong dinala na dangal para sa ating mahal na Pilipinas. Kaya’t asahan ninyo na sa administrayon na ito ay gagawin natin ang lahat para masuportahan natin at ipalabas natin ang kagalingan, ang husay ng ating atleta,” the President said.

The chief executive also honored the Filipino athletes for demonstrating the strength of

the Filipino spirit, the grace of the Filipino character and the passion of the Filipino heart through their respective sports in the international arena.

President Marcos also assured the Filipino athletes that they are not alone in their journey towards achieving their victory as he emphasized that the government is always behind them.

“I am always a little embarrassed when I see that we are not supporting our athletes and our coaches and our trainers and all the support groups, even the families. Alam naman natin, hindi kayo naging champion na nag-iisa. At maraming tumulong para kayo ay maging champion,” President Marcos said.

“Maraming nag-sakripisyo. Iyon na nga iyong ating mga coach, kung sino ‘yong mga nagpapakain sa inyo, mga magulang ninyo. So it seems that what we in government, considering the honor and the pride that you bring to the Philippines, it seems that it is not commensurate for the great service that you do for our country and our people,” he added.

The President also honored the coaches for their unwavering

dedication to hone the skills and talents of their athletes.

Under Republic Act No. 10699, or the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act, a gold medalist who win in SEA Games individual games category will receive Php 300,000; silver medalist, Php 150,000; and, bronze medalist, P60,000. On the other hand, Php 150,000 will be given to a gold medalist in the 12th ASEAN Para Games; Php75,000 for silver medalist; and, Php 30,000 for bronze medalist.

Teams with less than four participants will receive the same cash incentives for individual winners, to be divided equally among the team members present during the competition, while for teams with more than five participants, each member will receive 25 percent of the cash incentives for individual medal winners.

Coaches, on the other hand, will receive the equivalent of 50 percent of the cash incentives awarded to gold, silver, and bronze medalists. In case of more than one coach, the cash incentives shall be divided among the

coaches.

Athlete Angel Otom, who was among those who received the incentive, said that she is thankful for the government’s support as she emphasized that all her sacrifices are worth it after being recognized by the President.

“Napaka-overwhelming kasi sa lahat ng mga na-achieve ko, nandidito ako ngayon, at saka mga pinagdaanan ko, dahil ‘yung mga challenges na pinagdaanan ko noon, ay nagresulta naman ng magandang result. At ngayon, nandito po ako para irepresenta ‘yung bansang Pilipinas,” Otom said.

“Ngayon sa sinabi po ni Sir Bongbong Marcos, mas magiging maganda po talaga ‘yung aming mga performance, lalo na sa pagte-training kasi kailangan po talaga ng mga atleta ang sapat na nutrisyon, sapat na training para mas maging malakas kami physically and mentally po,” she added.

Otom said that Filipino athletes should not lose their hope and always have their faith in God, their family, in the Philippines and in all those who believe in them. (MNS)

maritime law enforcement and security operations.

“This push on infrastructure development is aligned with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, and the country’s Medium-Term Fiscal Framework,” the DBM said.

In his Budget Message, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the significance of increasing the DOTr’s funding in 2024, citing the vital role of transportation policy in driving sustainable economic growth.

“Transportation policy can have significant and lasting impacts on overall economic growth. Hence, with the urgent need to improve our country’s public mass transport system and reduce road congestion, we have doubled the budget for the DOTr from PHP106.0 billion in the FY (fiscal year) 2023 GAA (General Appropriations Act) to PHP214.3 billion for 2024,” Marcos said. (MNS)

Agri, infra damage

from recent typhoons, ‘habagat’ top P10-B

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The combined amount of damage to agriculture and infrastructure caused by Typhoons Egay and Falcon and the southwest monsoon (habagat) has reached more than PHP10 billion.

In its bulletin on Wednesday, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) estimated the damage to agriculture and infrastructure at PHP4.45 billion and PHP5.81 billion, respectively.

It said the recent weather disturbances also affected a total of 1,224,219 families or 4,555,227 persons residing in 5,334 barangays in the Ilocos region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Davao region, Soccsksargen, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Cordillera region, and National Capital Region.

The NDRRMC also said 7,237 families or 25,702 individuals are still in 352 evacuation centers while 21,043 families or 80,908 persons are receiving aid outside evacuation centers.

The Office of Civil Defense said the affected families are a combination of those displaced and those not needing removal from their residence but whose livelihoods have been affected.

The death toll stood at 30, four of whom have been confirmed.

About 171 persons were reported injured, 152 of whom have been validated.

Meanwhile, reports of 10 missing persons are still undergoing validation.(MNS)

Secretary Arsenio Balisacan

Chinese ships tried to ram Philippine resupply boats, says Navy crew

MANILA (Mabuhay) — A member of the Philippine Navy who was on board the resupply boat that was hit by water cannons by the Chinese Coast Guard over the weekend said they received radio challenges from China.

Speaking to reporters at the Western Command headquarters in Palawan, Lt. Ramsey Gutierrez said the supplies and goods that were supposed to be delivered to troops stationed at BRP Sierra Madre were destroyed because of the incident.

“Nabasa ang bigas. Ang ibang food provisions ay tinamaan ng water cannon, so nasira. Mga gulay, karne,” Gutierrez said on Thursday. “Mga panahong iyon, at that moment, composed pa rin kami. We continuously coordinated with higher HQs for the kung ano magiging action namin and to safely navigate ang boats.”

He added, “Nabox-in talaga. Narestrict na sa maneuverability. There were 2 militia vessels on the starboard and port side, kaliwa at kanan. Ang CCG naman sa likod. There was no way for the boat to sail sa intended track.”

The resupply mission pushed through, but only one Philippine boat proceeded and successfully arrived in Ayungin Shoal.

LTJG Darwin Datwin, who was on that

boat, said the Chinese ships tried to ram into their vessel.

“Nasa 24 meters lang ang boats natin na papunta doon. Made of wood. Civilian chartered boat ito,” Datwin said. “Less than 5 meters na lang ang distance nila [Chinese

ships] sa starboard ng boat.”

“Delikado kasi ang mga bangka natin ay made from wood. Anything na mangyari diyan, matamaan man nang matindi, hindi natin alam kung makakabalik ang bangka. Very endanger-

ing ang ginawa nila,” he added.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines said another resupply mission will be conducted soon. Only half of a month’s worth of supply of food and water were successfully delivered to the mil-

PhilSA chief thanks PBBM’s support to space sector

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The head of the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has said the agency appreciates President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s support to the space sector as the government realizes that “space is part of the digital transformation.”

“The President understands the value of these (space) technologies as important tools for nation-building,” PhilSA Director General Joel Marciano Jr. told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) in an interview on Tuesday.

“Space is part of the country’s digital transformation -- which not only involves digitizing records. The bigger picture involves the use and access of data, and data can come from space,” Marciano said.

Marcos recently declared August 8 to 14 of every year as “Philippine Space Week” to promote space awareness among Filipinos. The observance will highlight the substantial influence of space science and technology applications on the socio-economic development of the country.

It can be recalled that Marcos has expressed his support for the development of MULA satellite, eyed for launch in 2025. The project is the biggest Earth observation satellite being built by the Philippines.

MULA satellite weighs 130 kilograms and carries a TrueColour camera capable of capturing around 73,000 square kilometers in 24 hours. Data from MULA are envisioned to contribute to the country’s food security, disaster resilience, environment conservation and national security.

Marciano said the Philippine Space Week will serve as an avenue to share the spotlight on the country’s efforts in space technology and make the public realize the need to enhance capabilities to be at par with other countries.

“These technologies would help address challenges the country is facing,” he added.

Earlier, he explained that space technology boosts the capability to address challenges on environmental protection, territorial integrity, disaster risk reduction and response, livelihood, productivity and resilience, which are all part of strengthening national security and development.

PhilSA on Tuesday inked agreements with different government agencies, such as the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), the Department of Science and Technology-Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI), Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), and the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR).

Called the DIME (Digital Information for Monitoring and Evaluation) project, the partnership with DBM seeks to improve the monitoring of government property and government-funded infrastructure projects with the use of data and images from satellites.

DIME aims to reduce costs on fieldbased validation activities, ensuring the proper use and expenditure of public funds.

On the other hand, PhilSA’s partnership with the LBP and DOST-ASTI will use space data and analytics for financial applications. The three parties will use space-related technologies for financial applications; conduct joint research and exchange of information; organize training symposia, among others.

Meanwhile, PhilSA and MinDA will work on research and development projects to accelerate socio-economic development in Mindanao. Their col-

laboration, called PINAS (PhilSA Integrated Network for Space-enabled Actions towards Sustainability) Mindanao, will highlight the increasing relevance of geospatial data in local government policy-making, planning, and monitoring.

As for PhilSA’s partnership with BFAR, remote sensing and data

science applications will be used to enhance fisheries management. Satellite images will be used to support fisheries conservation.

Remote se`nsing is data-gathering about the earth’s surface. Satellites with high-resolution camera are among the technologies needed in remote sensing. (MNS)

itary outpost in Ayungin Shoal.

“The resupply mission is being done every month. Since only half made it to the ship, we need to do another run for the supplies… in two weeks’ time. Earliest next week, hopefully,” AFP Western Command chief Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos said.

“As far as the reception, it is our prayer that there will be no more water cannon incident. Less aggressive reception from the other side, especially with the international attention this incident generated,” he continued. “We’ll be using same boats. I inspected them recently. There are no grave damage. They’re good to go.”

AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr., who visited the WESCOM on Thursday, also talked to the troops who were on the receiving end of China’s water cannons.

“Dapat last week pa ako pupunta dito, but I’m here now, especially with what happened last Saturday, para mapag-aralan ko kung ano ang totoong nangyari and we will see how we can probably change some of our policies and increase more resources into Wescom,” he said.

“At my level, in the GHQ, we can infuse changes into the way we do things here. We will coordinate closely with the commander of Wescom so we can operate more effectively and more freely in the WPS,” he added. (MNS)

DILG chief wants VAW desks in barangays

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. on Wednesday urged all barangays to set up their own violence against women (VAW) desks to help women and children who are victims of sexual violence.

In Memorandum Circular 2023104, Abalos said provincial, city and municipal local government units (LGUs) are expected to provide technical and financial assistance to barangays, develop and distribute information materials to raise public awareness on VAW and how to report incidents, and seek help and provide recognition and incentives to barangays with exemplary performance in addressing gender-based violence issues.

Abalos said village chairpersons must enact or update an ordinance providing support for the establishment and sustained operations of VAW desk and designate a barangay

VAW desk officer trained in handling gender-sensitive cases, preferably a female Sangguniang barangay member or a female barangay tanod (village watchperson).

He said the barangay VAW desk must be within or near the barangay hall or close to the office of the chairperson with necessary resources to assist victim-survivors, such as equipment and supplies for documenting cases and preserving evidence, communication equipment and first aid kit, among others.

Section 9 of Republic Act 9710 or Magna Carta of Women and Section 12 of its implementing rules and regulations mandate all LGUs to establish VAW desks in every barangay to assist VAW victims, respond to gender-based violence cases brought to the barangay and address other forms of abuse committed against women. (MNS)

Tension in WPS no excuse to resort to arms panic buying

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Senator Francis Escudero on Tuesday said the tension in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) with China is not an excuse for the government to go into panic buying for defense equipment as he also advised the government not to let its desperation lower its guard when shopping for defense material.

According to Escudero, “it is expected that arms merchants are beating a path to our door because they sense

sales opportunity from a crisis but we should be picky buyers because we don’t have unlimited money. Smart buying is the key because we don’t have the resources to engage in an arms race.”

Another thing to be considered, he said, is the country’s pathetic lack for planes, boats and motor vehicles to respond to challenges like calamities within our territory.

He urged the government to consider “dual use” assets that

can be used during military operations as well as rescue and relief operations in times of calamities.

He pointed out the incident in Laguna Bay, where we lack air rescue capability which is very near to Manila.

“Ganun din sa ngayon (The same with) Great Lake of Central Luzon. Kailangan ng (we need) amphibian boats there.

Kung mananawagan tayo ng bagong destroyers para sa laot, baka naman pwede isabay o

unahin ang mas murang mga rescue boats (If we will call for a new destroyers, maybe we must also call or purchase first cheaper rescue boats),” he added.

Escudero said he has been advocating for a floating hospital that will double as a power plant, rescue headquarters, food pantry that will sail towards typhoon-hit areas.

He said the equipment the nation will buy must be capable of being scrambled during

calamities or emergency situations where lives are at stake.

Escudero said boosting defense capability should begin with the tapping of local manufacturers with a proven track of producing world class products.

“We have excellent boat builders. We have gun manufacturers whose products have gotten great reviews. Pati mga sasakyan pang lupa, pwede na kunin dito (We can also buy locally manufactured land-based vehicle),” he said. (MNS)

The Filipino crew who was on board the resupply boat that was hit by water cannons by the Chinese Coast Guard said on Thursday that the vessels of the Chinese Coast Guard and Chinese fishing militia tried to ram into the boats of the Philippine resupply mission.

Hontiveros urges gov’t to reject Chinafunded reclamation projects in PH

the operations of all but one reclamation project in Manila Bay due to management issues.

“I welcome the President’s suspension, but government should not approve reclamation projects by China state-owned companies anymore. Certainly not now. CCCC, like its home country China, has committed many violations against the Philippines. From building artificial islands in the West Philippine Sea to now reclaiming land in Metro Manila, China is destroying Philippine territory left, right, and center. Nabawasan lalo ang respeto ko sa Tsina. Nanghihimasok na nga sa Pilipinas, sinisira pa ang ating likas-yaman,” Hontiveros said.

al Reclamation Plan will translate to a loss of the same area of seagrass, the spawning ground, and habitat of aquatic life, leading to an annual loss of 4-7 billion invertebrates and 3-78 trillion fish.

including the recent firing of a water cannon by the Chinese Coast Guard at the Philippine Coast Guard last Saturday, blocking the resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal.

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Senator Risa Hontiveros on Wednesday urged government to reject all China-funded reclamation projects in the Philippines.

According to reports, two of the six initially approved reclamation projects in Manila Bay are executed by China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd., a subsidiary of China state-owned Communications Construction Co. or CCCC. However, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. has since suspended

In 2022, the senator filed Proposed Senate Resolution 300, directing the appropriate Senate committee to conduct an inquiry into the reported large-scale land reclamation projects being undertaken on a nationwide scale in the Philippines.

In the resolution, Hontiveros cited scientist Dr. Giovanni Tapang who said that the reclamation of more than 38,000 hectares, 26,232 hectares of which are along the coast of Manila Bay, covered by the Nation-

“Kailangang maimbestigan ito sa Senado. Delikado ang mga reclamation areas. Matinding pagbaha ang pwedeng asahan dahil sa pagpapatuloy ng mga reclamation activities. Housing and commercial areas in planned reclamation projects will put people in harm’s way. Food security will also be affected, especially since Manila Bay is an important fishing ground. Reclamation will destroy remaining marine habitats, like mangroves, seagrasses, and coral ecosystems,” the senator said.

“These China-funded reclamation projects may cause irreversible damage to our cherished natural resources. Ang likas-yaman na nga lang ng Pilipinas ang napanghahawakang yaman ng mga Pilipino, kaya dapat matindi ang ginagawa nating pagdedepensa dito,” the senator said.

Hontiveros also called on the ban of CCCC as a response to the repeated provocations of China in the West Philippine Sea,

After the indignation expressed by the Department of Foreign Affairs, the PCG, and the AFP against the use of water cannons, China, instead of issuing an apology, asserted her baseless claims and demanded that the Philippines remove BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal.

“BRP Sierra Madre is a Philippine asset that we have all the right to maintain in Ayungin Shoal. We will never allow anyone to forcibly take that vessel out of our own waters. The sheer arrogance of China is what causes deep instability in the region,” the senator said.

“Everything that comes out of China’s mouth should be analyzed carefully by any nation worth their salt. It is so much lies and manipulation. How can we negotiate with Beijing when she acts in bad faith? This is why we must draw up other diplomatic and political ways to stand our ground, including stopping China-funded projects on our shores,” Hontiveros concluded. (MNS)

PBBM: No PH-China deal to remove BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin

MANILA (Mabuhay) — There is no existing agreement between the Philippines and China to remove BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Wednesday.

Marcos issued the statement after China on Aug. 7 claimed that the Philippine government had “repeatedly promised to tow away” the grounded warship from the Ayungin Shoal, a feature within the Kalayaan Island Group less than 200 nautical miles off Palawan.

“I’m not aware of any such ar-

rangement or agreement that the Philippines will remove from its own territory its ship, in this case, the BRP Sierra Madre from the Ayungin Shoal,” Marcos said in a video message released by the Presidential Communications Office.

Marcos added that he is repealing any commitment, should there be an existing agreement between the Philippines and China on the supposed removal of the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal.

“And let me go further, if there does exist such an agreement, I

rescind that agreement now,” he said.

In a Laging Handa briefing, National Security Council assistant director general Jonathan Malaya said there is no commitment from the Philippine government to remove BRP Sierra Madre from the Ayungin Shoal.

Malaya also stressed that BRP Sierra Madre was deployed and stationed in Ayungin Shoal in 1999 to show China that the Philippines has control over it.

Foreign Affairs spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza on Tuesday

said Manila had decided to deploy a permanent station on Ayungin Shoal in 1999 in response to China’s illegal occupation of Panganiban Reef or the Mischief Reef in 1995.

China on Monday renewed its call on the Philippines to remove the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal, saying the Philippines fails to fulfill its promise.

Prior to China’s demand, the Chinese Coast Guard on Aug. 5 blocked and used water cannon against the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) resupply mission

to Ayungin Shoal.

Marcos, in a media interview on Monday, said the government would come up with a comprehensive action to respond to China’s dangerous maneuvers and illegal use of water cannons against the PCG vessels in Ayungin Shoal.

Marcos also maintained that the Philippines will continue to assert its sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea, noting that Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo had already sent a note verbale to China following the latest incident in Ayungin Shoal. (MNS)

Senator Risa Hontiveros

Philippine economic growth slows down further at 4.3% in Q2 2023

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippine economy continued its downtrend as it grew at a slower pace in the second quarter of 2023 — its slowest pace in nine quarters since the country entered the positive territory in the middle of 2021 following a pandemic-induced recession— amid high inflation that tempered consumption during the period, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Thursday.

The economy, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP) or the total value of goods and services produced in a specific period, grew by 4.3% during the April to June 2023 period, PSA chief and National Statistician Claire Dennis Mapa said at a press conference.

This is slower than the 6.4% growth rate seen in the first quarter of the year and far slower than the 7.5% GDP growth seen in the same quarter last year.

Quarter-on-quarter, it posted a decline of -0.9% during the period.

This also marks the fifth straight quarter of deceleration for the country’s GDP, and its slowest footing in nine quarters since it exited the pandemic-induced recession in the second quarter of 2021.

The economy was pulled out of recession in the April to June period of 2021 with a GDP growth rate of 12%.

The second quarter print brought the year-to-date economic growth rate at 5.3%, according to Mapa.

To achieve the government’s 6% to 7% target, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the economy “needs to grow by 6.6% in the second half.”

“Notwithstanding the challenges, we believe this is still attainable,” Balisacan said, reading the joint statement of the economic team.

The country’s chief economist earlier floated that the second quarter GDP growth is expected to “further moderate.”

High inflation, interest rates

The slower growth came amid a still high inflation environment and the consequential costly interest rates to temper rising prices.

As of the first half of the year, inflation or the rate of increase in the prices of goods and services clocked in at 7.2%, still far above the government’s comfortable ceiling of 2% to 4%.

To tame inflation, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) raised monetary policy rates by a cumulative 425 basis points since May last year.

“For the second quarter, the moderate economic expansion was driven by increases in tourism-related spending and commercial investments, but was tempered by high commodity prices, the lagged effects of interest rate hikes, the contraction in government spending, and slower global economic growth,” Balisacan said.

Notably, Household Final Consumption Expenditure (HFCE) contracted by 0.1% quarter-on-quarter.

Likewise, Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing posted a quarter-on-quarter decline of -0.97% in the second quarter.

Industry and Services sectors also saw contractions of 0.7% and 1.02%, respectively, during the period.

“Inflation in the country has

been decelerating in recent months, reaching 4.7 percent in July 2023,” Balisacan said.

“Nevertheless, we will continue to intensify our supply-side interventions and demand-side management measures to maintain overall price stability amid upside risks such as weather disturbances, including El Niño, trade tensions, and the imposition of export bans in other countries,” he added.

Balisacan said the improving inflation outlook could spell the easing of interest rates and “should pave the way for the expansion of activities of businesses, households, and the rest of the private sector.”

“The government will also intensify its targeted measures to cushion the impact of high inflation on vulnerable sectors,” the NEDA chief said.

Balisacan also pointed to government underspending as state expenditure contracted by 7.1% “in the absence of election-related spending in the first half of the year.”

The government missed its P2.58-trillion spending program in the first half of 2023 by 6.6%, with actual expenditures amounting to P2.411 trillion, data from the Bureau of the Treasury showed.

Nonetheless, Balisacan said that “government spending will accelerate

American senator eyes battery manufacturing agreement in PH, cites reliable, long-standing PH-US relations

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippines and the United States can collaborate for the production of electronic vehicle batteries to meet the huge demand of the American market, US Senator Tammy Duckworth said on Tuesday.

Duckworth, who met President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during a courtesy call in Malacañan Palace, also shared her conversation with Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga and Department of Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla about the United States’ transition to renewable energy sources as well as its current challenges.

“So, for example, we’ve discussed at length about electronic vehicle batteries and we can’t get enough of them to meet the American market. And I can’t think of a better place to create a new manufacturing ecosystem for the American market than here in the Philippines where we can work together to supply that market so that we can continue to make our switch to renewables as well. And there are many other places where we can work together,” Duckworth told President Marcos.

“And again, I would rather have America’s manufacturing supply chain rest here in a nation that has been a long-time friend and ally, than in a nation that is our adversary or our competitor. And so, I think there are lots of opportunities and we had a really productive meeting.”

The President replied that with the renewable energy sources such as solar and wind that rely on nature and are not constant, this is where

batteries become very important.

He said the Philippines has great potential for battery manufacturing considering the presence of mineral deposits that are necessary elements for battery production.

“We have nickel, we have bauxite, we have cobalt. And so, the idea of manufacturing….has shown more and more potential, the more we study it,” Marcos told the American legislator.

“And, so this is what we are hoping to develop here. Not just — we will have a demand locally for these batteries but not just for the local demand but also for sale to other countries and for other markets. That is certainly something that we have been pushing very hard for in terms of developing the capabilities.”

The President also delved on the long-standing ties between the Philippines and the US and the need to strengthen further the relationship.

“I think we must continue to promote and to hopefully make even stronger and deeper and especially with the volatility that we are observing in geopolitics, especially in our region, but not limited to our region but all over the world, is something that we need to find new responses for and to take new positions for,” he said.

Marcos said he is happy to welcome Duckworth in the Philippines having seen her work in previous years supporting Filipinos who now live and work in the United States.

Duckworth (Democrat-Illinois),

the US Senate Armed

in the coming quarters to allow us to recover our growth momentum.

Catch-up plan

Balisacan said the catch-up spending will be done through accelerating the execution of government programs and projects, including the delivery of public services, under the 2023 national budget.

“Indeed, the Economic Development Group (EDG) has already been discussing how various government agencies can expedite the implementation of programs and projects for the rest of the year,” he said.

The NEDA chief added that government agencies, including local and regional government entities, are encouraged, if not instructed, to formulate catch-up plans, accelerate, and even frontload the implementation of said programs and projects.

“Line agencies already have their catch-up plans and are enjoined to implement these urgently. Moreover, fiscal stimulus activities are underway to increase the productive capacities of both the public and private sectors,” he said.

“Meanwhile, to address the adverse impact of the recent typhoons and monsoon rains,

we recommend the immediate use of the Quick Response Fund and other disaster-related budgetary instruments of the government,” Balisacan added.

The economic team, according to Balisacan, will continue to monitor closely the impact of the global economic slowdown and the recent wave of trade protectionism on the country’s export sector.

“We will facilitate the diversification of external markets to expand opportunities for our exporters,” Balisacan said.

“To aid in the design of policies and assistance measures, the government will also hold more discussions with sectors observed to be adversely affected by the global economic slowdown and shifts in demand preferences as the pandemic wanes and with those that have not yet returned to their pre-pandemic levels in terms of production and capacity,” the NEDA chief said.

The country’s chief economist said the government is continuing its implementation of credit programs designed to provide loans for marginalized farmers and fisherfolk and micro and small enterprises at low-interest rates, with minimal or no collateral, and fewer documentary requirements. (MNS)

PH eyes ‘A’ rating from debt watchers before Marcos term ends — Diokno

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Finance

Secretary Benjamin Diokno said the Philippines is aiming to get the highest investment grade rating before the end of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s term.

At a briefing with reporters last Friday, Diokno outlined the government’s “Road to A” program to achieve the government’s goal of getting an “A” rating from international debt watchers such as Fitch Rating, S&P Global and Moody’s Investor Service, among others.

Having an “A” rating gives the country access to loans with better interest rates. It can also make the Philippines more attractive to foreign investors.

Diokno said having an A rating could bring more investments and generate jobs.

“An A rating would affirm the Philippines’ credit-worthiness and would serve as a strong signal to local and international business and financial communities that the country is conducive to long-term investments,” Diokno said.

Marcos, during his visit to

the New York Stock Exchange last year, also said the country is aiming to reach the highest investment grade territory.

The Philippines has established an “Inter-Agency Committee on the Road to A” whose three-pronged strategy includes achieving solid economic growth, prudent fiscal management, and strong governance standards and institutions, Diokno said. Becoming an upper-middle-income country and addressing infrastructure gaps are also among the country’s goals, he added.

“Our focus is on the medium term fiscal framework. They [rating agencies] need more institutional reforms, government reforms and we’re doing it,” he said.

Currently, the Philippines has a BBB+ credit rating from S&P Global which is one notch below the A grade, a BBB rating from Fitch Ratings and a BAA2 from Moody’s Investor Service, among others.

Diokno said the country did not suffer from any credit rating downgrade even during the COVID-19 pandemic. (MNS)

PH household spending seen to surpass pre-pandemic level

Services Committee, the Environment & Public Works Committee, the Commerce, Science, & Transportation Committee, and the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Committee. A meeting with Duckworth presented an opportunity for the Philippines to raise the importance of US legislative support for common security and trade interests, including through enhanced assistance towards the modernization of the Philippines’ defense and civilian law enforcement capabilities, the immediate reauthorization of the GSP program, and the facilitation of other strategic trade and investment opportunities. (MNS)

MANILA – Fitch Solutions unit BMI has projected that the Philippines› household spending this year will exceed the pre-pandemic level.

In its commentary on consumer and retail released Thursday, BMI said real household spending this year is projected at PHP12 trillion, higher than the PHP10.9 trillion expenditure in 2019.

“We hold a positive outlook for consumer spending in the Philippines over the rest of 2023, as a wider economic recovery feeds through to strong real consumer spending growth over the full year,” it said.

BMI also maintained its 5.5 percent consumer expenditure growth forecast for this year from the previous commentary released last May.

The Fitch Solutions company also expects the easing of inflation to support spending activities of Filipinos.

Inflation in July 2023 declined to 4.7 percent, the lowest since March 2022.

“Our consumer spending outlook will continue its steady growth as we look toward 2024. Real household spending over 2024 will grow 6 percent over 2024, to a total of PHP12.7 trillion,” it said. (PNA)

US Senator Tammy Duckworth

US firm to allot $1B for Clark, Baguio chip manufacturing sites

MANILA (Mabuhay) — American microprocessors manufacturer Texas Instruments Inc. (TI) will invest around USD1 billion for the expansion of its facilities in Clark, Pampanga and Baguio City, Malacañang announced Thursday.

TI’s investment commitments were announced during President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s meeting with members of the United States (US)-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Business Council at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Wednesday, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil said in a statement.

Citing the announcement made by US officials, Garafil said TI is expected to submit in two weeks an application on the expansion of its Clark and Baguio City sites which may reach USD1 billion Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises threshold.

“There will be huge opportunities

as Texas Instruments gear toward making the investment, which would increase capacity in the region, having in mind the shortage of chips in the global economy,” Garafil said.

Garafil said TI’s investment plans are in line with the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 signed into law by US President Joe Biden last year.

She noted that the US law is aimed at building and making historic investments that will poise American workers, communities and businesses to “win the race for the 21st century.”

“The law is seen to strengthen American manufacturing, supply chains, and national security, and invest in research and development, science and technology, and the workforce of the future to keep the United States the leader in the industries of tomorrow, including nanotechnology, clean energy, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence,”

Garafil said.

Marcos welcomed TI’s investment

plans, saying the expansion would help spur economic growth in the Philippines.

He said the Philippines has good potential, considering its workforce that is accustomed to working for foreign corporations.

He added that the Philippines has undertaken a “very comprehensive” program of upskilling and reskilling its workers to be able to take advantage of the new niches in the labor demand and the labor market.

“These (are) areas and sectors in the economy that we would like to be involved in,” he said, as quoted by the PCO. “And we have a great deal of [dependence] already… of our exports. We do not see why we should not further support and enhance the sector of the economy because it has (done) well.”

TI was founded in 1930 and is currently based in Dallas, Texas. It is a global semiconductor company that

PCA, farmers ink deal to boost local coconut industry

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The government through the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and coconut farmers are working together to help improve the country’s coconut sector.

This came as the PCA, the Confederation of Coconut Farmer’s Organizations of the Philippines (CCFOP-CONFED) and the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM) signed a memorandum of understanding on Wednesday aimed at pursuing massive planting and replanting and reinvigorating the coconut industry.

“Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., and the Bagong Pilipinas brand of governance, we expect to significantly increase coconut productivity, boost diversified production, and engage more of our farmers in higher value-adding activities, which would contribute to economic growth and substantially increase and even double farmers’ incomes,” PCA administrator Bernie Cruz said on the sidelines of the MOU signing at the PCA office in Quezon City.

The administrator also highlighted the strategies of the PCA to increase coconut productivity through massive planting and replanting; intensify farm diversification; foster coconut processing by small and medium-sized enterprises; and revitalize coconut research and de-

velopment.

“We started a month ago, the gathering of planting materials nationwide,” he said.

Cruz, CCFOP-CONFED executive director Charles Avila and PRRM president Edicio dela Torre signed the MOU.

The partnership also aims to foster cooperation, strengthen partnerships with coconut farmers’ groups and organizations, and expand the reach of support services, in line with PA’s goal to reinvigorate the Philippine coconut industry.

Cruz noted the urgency of helping coconut farmers, organizing and strengthening cooperatives and providing support services such as shared facilities

and processing centers to capacitate the coconut planting and replanting program.

He added that such interventions should encompass all provinces viable for coconut farming and further enhance best practices of the vibrant coconut industry in provinces such as Camarines Sur and Quezon, as well as in the highest coconut-producing areas in the Davao Region, Zamboanga Peninsula and Northern Mindanao.

There are 68 provinces in the country that are producing coconut.

The Philippine Statistics Authority has reported that among the top agricultural exports of the country by value

Vietnam assures steady supply of rice to PH — Romualdez

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Vietnam assured it will continue to provide the Philippines with a stable supply of rice at affordable prices in affirmation of the strong friendly relations between the two countries, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez said on Monday.

Romualdez received the commitment on Sunday during his meeting with Vuong Dinh Hue, president of the National Assembly of Vietnam, on the eve of the formal opening of the 44th AIPA (ASEAN Parliamentary Assembly) general assembly in Jakarta, Indonesia.

“Inutusan tayo ng Pangulong Bongbong Marcos na pagtuunan naming lahat ng pansin ang problemang ito at tumulong na mapigilan ang pagtaas ng presyo ng bigas dulot ng kakulangan sa suplay (President Ferdinand R. Mar-

cos Jr. ordered us to focus all our attention to this problem and help avert the increase in the price of rice due to the lack of supply),” Romualdez said on a Facebook post.

“Kaya naman lubos na nagpapasalamat tayo kay Hon. Vuong Dinh Hue, President of the National Assembly of Vietnam, sa pagtitiyak sa atin na tuloy-tuloy ang pagsusuplay ng bansang Vietnam sa ating bansa ng de-kalidad na bigas sa abot-kayang presyo (That is why we are very grateful to Honorable Vuong Dinh Hue, president of the National Assembly of Vietnam, for assuring us that Vietnam will continue to supply our country with high-quality rice at an affordable price,” he added.

In response, Romualdez said the Philippines is willing to provide Vietnam with specific prod-

ucts and materials it may need to meet the demand of its industries and consumers.

Marcos earlier expressed concern over the country’s rice supply amid the widespread damage to farmlands caused Super Typhoon Egay and the threat posed by El Niño phenomenon on rice production.

The export ban imposed by India, the world’s largest rice exporter, on July 20 is also expected to cause ripples in global rice prices that would affect millions of consumers, particularly in Africa and Asia.

Vietnam is traditionally the main source of Philippine rice imports.

Vuong’s assurance “could help boost the country’s rice supply and dampen possible price spikes fueled by speculation over possible shortages,” Romualdez said. (MNS)

designs, manufactures, tests and sells analog and embedded processing chips.

The company has approximately 80,000 products that help over 100,000 customers efficiently manage power, accurately sense and transmit data and provide the core control or processing in their designs, going into markets such as indus-

in US dollars in 2021, coconut oil (USD1.431 billion), desiccated coconut (USD396 million), and copra oil cake (USD67.54 million) ranked first, fourth, and 10th, respectively.

On the other hand, the emerging non-traditional coconut products such as virgin coconut oil (valued at PHP26 billion worth of exports in 2021), coconut concentrates (PHP4.40 billion), and coconut milk (PHP2.44 billion) have also risen rapidly in terms of share to export earnings, thus making increased production and product diversification key priorities of the Authority moving forward for the industry to meet and maximize increasing glob-

trial, automotive, personal electronics, communications equipment and enterprise systems.

TI has 15 manufacturing sites worldwide which produce tens of billions of chips every year.

To date, it employs around 14,000 workers in the US, 17,000 in the Asia-Pacific, and 2,000 in Europe. (MNS)

al demand.

Created on June 30, 1973, under Presidential Decree 232, the PCA is the sole government agency tasked to develop the coconut industry to its full potential in line with the new vision of a united, globally competitive and efficient coconut industry.

It was made an independent public corporation by PD 961, which first codified the laws dealing with the development of the coconut and other palm oil industry in the country, as subsequently revised by PD 1468, otherwise known as the “Revised Coconut Industry Code,” which presently serves as the PCA Charter. (MNS)

DOF:

12.1% of proposed P5.768-T budget earmarked for debt payments

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Finance (DOF) on Tuesday said that the government has earmarked 12.1% or P699.2 billion of the proposed P5.768 trillion national budget next year to finance payment of obligations or debt burden.

“When assessing the debt burden component of the budget, it is crucial to solely consider interest payments and net lending,” Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno said in a statement.

Net lending refers to advances by the national government for the servicing of debt.

Meanwhile, Diokno said interest payments (IP) have been declining, “freeing up fiscal resources which can be reallocated to support the government’s priority programs.”

DOF data shows that from 1986 to 2015, the average share of IP to the total national government expenditures was at 23.3% and further declined to an average of 10.1% from 2016 to 2022.

“For 2024, the allocation for interest payments is only 11.6% or P670.5 billion of the 2024 budget. This allows us to spend more on socioeconomic programs and projects in our priority sectors such as education and infrastructure,” Diokno said.

The Finance chief also maintained that under any accounting standard, the principal amortization of debt is not included in the expense item since it is not classified as expenditure, hence it is not automatically appropriated.

“The settlement of debt obligations incurred from expenses were already recorded in the past. Therefore, principal amortization only represents the fulfillment of financial responsibilities arising from previously recorded expenses,” he said.

He added that since it is already an existing obligation, principal amortization does not result in any additional debt.

“If any, the responsibility for the debt is just moved from the previous lender to a new lender during the refinancing process. As a result, this does not add to the debt burden,” Diokno said.

He added that since principal payments are merely settlements of liabilities incurred in the utilization of appropriations programmed in prior years, recording it again as expenditures would result in double counting of appropriations.

The Finance chief said the Marcos administration’s economic team remains committed to implementing the Medium-Term Fiscal Framework (MTFF), which serves as the government’s blueprint for bringing down the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio from 60.9% in 2022 and to less than 60% by 2025, cutting the deficit-to-GDP ratio to 3% by 2028, and maintaining infrastructure spending at 5% to 6% of GDP.

As of the first quarter of 2023, the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio was recorded at 61%, down from the 63.5% ratio in the first quarter of 2022.

The debt-to-GDP ratio represents the amount of the government’s debt stock relative to the size of the economy.

As of end-June, the country’s total sovereign debt stock reached a record P14.15 trillion as the government boosted borrowing efforts to support its financing requirements.

“Through the continuous implementation of improvements to tax administration and efficiency and implementation of key tax reforms, the government is confident that revenue collections will continue to increase and the deficit will narrow on the back of a strong economy,” Diokno said.

“We would like to thank Congress for its continuous support on the MTFF legislations and for the ongoing work on the remaining revenue measures,” he said. (MNS)

MEET WITH US-ASEAN BIZ COUNCIL. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. meets with the US-ASEAN Business Council on Wednesday (Aug. 9, 2023) at Malacañang Palace in Manila. Marcos welcomed TI’s investment plans, saying the expansion would help spur economic growth in the Philippines. (Photo by Rolando Mailo)

Manila archdiocese lifts mask mandate in churches

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The wearing of face masks is now optional for the clergy and the faithful during Masses in churches under the Archdiocese of Manila.

In Circular 2023-61, signed by Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula on Thursday, the public has the option to wear or not to wear face masks while attending the Eucharistic celebration.

“In liturgical celebrations done outside the parish church (e.g., anointing of the sick and confession during home/sick visitation), the priest must keenly observe and properly discern when to observe safety measures for the sake of others and oneself,” it added.

At the same time, he urged parish priests to

continue to provide alcohol dispensers for hand sanitation.

“Let us continue to make available the alcohol dispensers in our parish churches and venues of celebrations, transactions, meetings, and activities,” the circular said.

“We encourage everyone to make it a habit to sanitize hands before, during, and after every church activity or whenever necessary. Minis-

ters of communion will continue to practice sanitizing their hands before distributing communion to the faithful.”

In receiving the Holy Communion, Advincula said, the faithful can receive the Host either on the tongue or in the hand.

The faithful may receive communion “either on the tongue or in the hand, at the discretion of each com-

municant,” he said.

The head of the archdiocese noted that during the giving of the Sign of Peace, “all express to one another peace, communion, and charity” through a bow, a handshake, and for family members through a kiss or an embrace.”

“All these must be done with solemnity, grace, prudence, and charity,” he added.

The circular was issued after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Proclamation 297 on July 21, effectively lifting the state of public health emergency in the country as cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) continue to decline. (MNS)

FDA: No ongoing application for Zuranolone use in PH

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said there is no ongoing application for the product registration of Zuranolone, the first oral treatment for postpartum depression (PPD), in the country.

E. Visayas eyes ‘kangaroo mother care’ to monitor infants

TACLOBAN CITY - The Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC) has highlighted the study on kangaroo mother-assisted devices that will monitor the health of infants.

EVHRDC chair and Department of Health Eastern Visayas regional director Exuperia Sabalberino on Wednesday said this “kangaroo mother care” (KMC) is one of the projects of the region’s researchers this year, led by Virginia Ariza, teacher of Holy Infant College here in partnership with Mother of Mercy Hospital and Northwest Samar State University.

The central focus of implementing “kangaroo mother care” is to maintain a conducive temperature through skin-toskin contact.

The project, recently done with its first phase, is the actual creation of prototyping of the Kangaroo mother care device.

“The creation of this device is not to create a replacement of the sophisticated incubators intended for low birth weight and premature newborn but to enhance the practice not only in established hospitals but also at remote and far-flung health centers,” Sabalberino explained.

“The study seeks to evaluate the performance and safety of the KMC device in mon-

itoring, detecting, and regulating the temperature of premature and low birth weight infants over a timespan ranging from three to six months not including other activities prior to and after the clinical trials,” Sabalberino said during a press briefing.

Currently, the infant care is being practiced by the state-run Eastern Visayas Medical Center in this city.

The project is on its second phase which

will “test certain indicators in a clinical setting.” Additional features will be included, such as adding a mobile phone application, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi-ready.

Ariza presented the research during the 16th Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS) at the Summit Hotel here.

The gathering on Aug. 8 to 11 is anchored on the theme “Sustainable Development: Resilience through Health Research.”

The convention will be narrowing on the important role that health research and development fulfills in driving sustainable development across the Philippine health sector.

Multiple partners from the academe, the medical field, public health, and science and technology, among others, will be showcasing exceptional health research initiatives that contribute to our nation’s Sustainable Development Goals agenda.

The PNHRS Week with 450 participants from 17 regions also aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders and will feature a series of competitions, press conferences, meetings, and plenary sessions with the brightest of minds and most influential figures in the health research community. (PNA)

DOH adds 7,200 ‘wellness warriors’ to support medical frontliners

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday said 7,200 more healthcare workers will join The Wellness Movement—-an initiative to promote the wellbeing of medical frontliners across the country.

For this year’s launch of the program at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), DOH announced that 72 hospitals and 7,200 more members were welcomed to The Wellness Movement,

which has already reached 50 hospitals in the last three years.

The program, which now expanded to all regions except Central Visayas, blends scientific and practical approaches to help doctors, nurses, and allied health staff adopt wellness behaviors, like exercises on grounding, breathing, and gratitude during critical moments in their day.

In his message, Health

Secretary Ted Herbosa recalled the three-year progression of The Wellness Movement, which only started with five pilot hospitals in 2020, benefitting more than 4,000 healthcare workers. It expanded to over 50 hospitals by 2022.

“The Wellness Movement fits right into two points of the 8-point action agenda of the Department and aligns seamlessly with our endeavor to provide a humanistic

approach in the work that we do—-the kapakanan at karapatan ng manggagawang pangkalusugan; and ginhawa ng isip at damdamin [welfare and rights of healthcare workers; and comfort of mind and feelings],” he said.

The DOH also introduced the Wellness Gadgets—a selection of tools specifically designed to seamlessly integrate wellness practices into the daily routines of hospital healthcare workers. (MNS)

In a statement Tuesday night, the FDA said it has not received an application for product registration through the Center for Drug Regulation and Research (CDRR).

“Likewise, no noted clinical trial protocol of the said product for postpartum treatment has been submitted to this agency, to date,” it said. “In addition to this, there has been no application for a Compassionate Special Permit of the product from the CDRR as of the date of this press statement.”

The United States FDA approved Zuranolone use for PPD in adults on Aug. 4.

PPD is a major depressive episode that usually occurs after childbirth but may also start during the later stages of the pregnancy. It is labeled as a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, which is characterized by sadness, guilt, loss of interest in activities that a mother used to enjoy, lessened ability to feel pleasure, and in some reported cases, having thoughts of harming themselves or their child.

Patients with PPD are recommended to take Zuranolone 50 milligrams once a day, for 14 days, in the evening together with a fatty meal.

Before the approval of Zuranolone as an oral medication for PPD, the only accepted treatment for the condition was available as an intravenous injection to be administered by a licensed health care professional in a health care facility.

“Should the Marketing Authorization Holder of Zuranolone submit the necessary documents for application for product registration, it will undergo the usual evaluation process prior to approval,” the FDA said. “Rest assured that the FDA Philippines remains dedicated to making novel medicines accessible to every Filipino.” (MNS)

Why Kris Aquino gave Mark Leviste a ring

FormerTV host Kris Aquino explained why she gave her ex-boyfriend Mark Leviste a ring.

In an Instagram post, Leviste was seen wearing a ring speculated to be from Aquino.

Aquino confirmed this saying: "Sorry, I pressed post by accident. Marc & I both know we still have a lot of work to do as far as communication and not misinterpreting each other’s words -- the important thing is that we both know our kids come first."

"The reason I gave him the ring was first of all, we were very much together then BUT whether we can make the journey together reach the finish line: the love, friendship, and the fidelity (meaning loyalty & commitment) to honor & respect what was and what is shall remain SOLID," she added.

"I am realistic, I’m battling 5 autoimmune conditions and the odds of me getting to the point of remission are very

Lovi Poe reveals engagement with Montey Blencowe

much against me, so I'm learning to be grateful for each day I ing.

wake up, that’s why continue to be your prayers. Thank you beME HOPE."

genuine concern about her

"The old me would be messaging Vice Gov. Marc (it’s really with a C) to argue with him on why he couldn’t keep this private -- but I've learned to accept him in his totality in the same way that he has learned to accept me for me," Aquino said.

"We’re trying our best to make what we have work, and if I'm being 100% honest -- a lot of my motivation comes from the fact that Kuya, Bimb, and I feel genuine affection & concern for his daughter (she’s private so I will refrain from mentioning her name) and his youngest C2 -- I had posted about him in the past so it’s okay,"

"C2 and Bimb are the same age and he’s staying with us. I'm very blessed because it’s difficult for kids to get along with their respective parent’s new partner & his or her kids. Even Vice Mayor Ronin who’s just my text mate has been so warm & helpful including his GF. A’s boyfriend is also the nicest, and even C2’s GF was FUN and a fellow #swiftie."

Since her condition has gotten “progressively worse,” Aquino earlier said she had asked Leviste for a pause knowing that a long-distance relationship would not work for them. (MNS)

'Best friend' Kyle Echarri back in Andrea Brillantes'

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Actress

Andrea Brillantes shared her happiness that actor Kyle Echarri, whom she described as her best friend, is back in her life again.

"Gusto ko lang sabihin na I'm happy na you are back into my life again. Nagkaroon kasi kami ng konting disconnection ni Kyle. Pero masaya ako na nandito na ulit 'yung best friend ko," Brillantes said in her latest vlog before she and Echarri played the "Who's Most Likely To" challenge.

"Best friend pa rin ba ang

life

tingin mo sa akin?" Brillantes asked Echarri, who replied: "Oo naman."

"I can't say number one but yeah we're best friends," Echarri added.

In 2019, Echarri, who was 15-year-old at that time, described Brillantes as a "very special friend" to him.

'She's a very special friend to me': Kyle Echarri inaming close sila ni Andrea Brillantes

The two Kapamilya young stars are set to reunite in the upcoming project "Senior High."

"Senior High" marks the re-

union of Echarri and Brillantes after the 2020 series "Huwag Kang Mangamba."

Meanwhile, Echarri was last seen in "The Iron Heart" as the young Apollo, while Brillantes was the lead star of iWantTFC series "Drag You & Me." (MNS)

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Actress

Lovi Poe has revealed her engagement to her boyfriend Montey Blencowe.

In an Instagram post, Poe showed a clip wearing a ring near a beach. "A couple of years ago, there were two coffees, one sunrise, and a ring."

"We’ve shared and celebrated this moment quietly with our family and closest friends, so we’re now more than happy to share this sweet #lifeupdate with you," she added in an Instagram post.

Despite her long-distance relationship with Blencowe, who is based in Los Angeles, Poe earlier assured they are happy with what they have.

Poe currently plays Mokang in "FPJ's Batang Quiapo," the love interest of Coco Martin's Tanggol. (MNS)

Katrina Halili shares sneak peek of her ‘The Black Rider’ character

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Katrina Halili is making her action series comeback soon with “The Black Rider!”

On Instagram, the Kapuso star shared photos of herself on a motorcycle, complete with riding gear. “Romana!” she wrote in the caption, along with the hashtag #BlackRiderSoon.

Katrina joins fellow Kapuso stars Ruru Madrid, Kylie Padilla, Joem Bascon, Rainier Castillo, and more for the upcoming series.

Last month, they underwent mixed martial arts training in preparation for the action-packed series.

Other cast members for "The Black Rider" include Matteo Guidicelli, Raymart Santiago, Gary Estrada, Zoren Legaspi, Rio Locsin, Gladys Reyes, Kim Perez, Luis Hontiveros, Saviour Ramos, and more. (MNS)

Markus Paterson praises Janella Salvador as mom to son Jude

MANILA (Mabuhay) —

Markus Paterson showered praises upon his ex-girlfriend, actress Janella Salvador, expressing that he couldn't have wished for a better mother for their son Jude.

Paterson said he would give Salvador a perfect 10 when it comes to being a mom to their two-year old.

“I see the way she cares for Jude. I see the way she sacrifices her downtime from work just to spend time with him kasi ang bibo na niya ngayon. Hands-on talaga siya. I couldn’t ask for a better mother of my child,” he

said.

Paterson also appreciates Salvador for being a great friend and co-parent.

“She’s an amazing co-parent. She never leaves me hanging talaga. Kapag gusto ko si Jude, magre-reply naman siya. Kapag tumawag ako, gusto ko makita si Jude, sasagot siya. I am super grateful for her existence,” he said.

When asked if he still wants to get back with her to give Jude a complete family, Paterson

said: “Mahirap sabihin kasi hindi naman kami nagkikita. Hindi naman kami nag-uusap arawaraw tungkol sa sarili namin, puro tungkol kay Jude. Araw-araw kami

nag-uusap pero puro tungkol kay Jude.”

Ultimately, Paterson said his only wish is for Salvador to fi nd her own happiness.

“Gusto ko lang na mag-

ing masaya siya. Masaya naman siya sa buhay niya ngayon. Busy siya sa work niya. Everything is going smoothly. Sobrang okay ng co-parenting set-up namin. Hindi pumapasok sa isip ko na ‘Do I want to get back with her?’ It’s just not a priority right now, for either of us, I feel. Mas focused kami kay Jude ngayon,” he said.

Nonetheless, Paterson said it was Salvador who taught him what unconditional love is.

“I will always appreciate that because I’ve only had short relationships… puro honeymoon stage. Hindi nata-tackle 'yung serious life, relationship problems, serious responsibilities,” he said.

“I’m glad that it happened with Jea because we already had that connection, the deep foundation of love and trust for each other. So nung nalaman namin na we were expecting Jude, it wasn’t scary na. Kaya natin ito. Ang dami na nating napagdaanan.”

It just so happened that they weren’t meant to stay a couple. (MNS)

MARKUS PATERSON JANELLA SALVADOR

KYLE ECHARRI AND ANDREA BRILLANTES

MONTEY AND LOVI

KRIS AQUINO

HEAVEN PERALEJO

MANILA (Mabuhay) — At the premiere of their project "The Ship Show," actress Heaven Peralejo was in high spirits after the Best Actress nomination she received from FAMAS.

The award-giving body, which will hold its ceremony this weekend, gave a nod to Peralejo's acting chops in the MMFF movie "Nanahimik ang Gabi."

"Matalo, manalo ako, okay naman ako. Sobrang happy ko to be recognized by FAMAS. And to be nominated alongside actresses na hinahangaan ko. I'm really happy," she said.

Heaven is up against Janine Gutierrez (Ngayon Kaya), Nadine Lustre (Greed), and veteran actressses Liza Lorena (Family Matters) and Sheila Francisco (Leonor Will Never Die).

At the moment, Heaven is on a roll with projects with love team partner Marco Gallo and both are slated to shoot another movie this September. (MNS)

Vice Ganda is first Filipino to reach 15M followers on X

Comedysuperstar Vice Ganda became the first Filipino to reach 15 million followers on microblogging site X (formerly called Twitter).

Vice's latest achievement was celebrated on "It's Showtime" on Tuesday.

"Tingnan mo nga naman o mas dumami pa ang followers ko. Mas marami pa 'yung nag-follow talaga. Sa lahat nang mga naganap, mas dumagsa pa ang followers ko. Maraming salamat talaga. Seriously maraming-maraming salamat sa aking mga Twitter followers. Ang dami niyo na, 15 million. Nakakatuwa 'yung first Filipino to have 15 million followers on Twitter, now X," said Vice, who credited co-host Anne Curtis for convincing him to join Twitter.

"Kasi dati, hindi pa masyadong malala ang social media ay Facebook Queen na ako. Ako 'yung first Filipino naman to reach 1 million followers sa Facebook. Tapos si Anne nagti-Twitter siya, sabi niya, 'Mag-Twitter ka.' Sabi ko, 'Ayaw ko pang-sosyal lang 'yan, saka masyadong nakakaartista.' Tapos ngayon mayroon na tayong

15 million. Maraming-maraming salamat. Napakarami diyan ang madlang na nakatutok sa 'Showtime' araw-araw," he said.

Vice, who joined X in September 2010, has been using the platform not only to interact with fans, but also to comment and express his thoughts on various topics.

As of writing, the comedian has 15,002,108 followers on X.

Meanwhile, Vice also announced that his game show "Everybody, Sing!" was nominated for Best Asian Original Game Show at ContentAsia Awards.

"Congratulations kay Direk Jon Moll at sa buong 'Everybody, Sing!' family. Sa ABS-CBN,

congratulations. Maganda talaga itong content natin na 'Everybody, Sing!' Bukod sa fun and entertaining ay public service siya at the same time.

Kaya naman nakakatuwa na nano-nomi-

Asian awards. Hindi ba nananalo na tayo sa Asian Academy Creative Awards; ngayon naman sa ContentAsia Awards. Magkaiba siya pero Asian-Asian siya. Kaya naman Philippines, pray with us para manalo ulit 'yung ating entry diyan sa ContentAsia,"

"Lord, thank you very much. Kaya naman naaaliw talaga ako. Sa lahat nang mga nangyayaring ito ay love talaga ang nararamdaman ko, love and blessings. Thank you so much. Walang puknat love and blessings, thank you," he concluded. (MNS)

Chito Miranda opens up about embracing a healthier lifestyle

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Parokya ni Edgar frontman Chito Miranda has embraced a healthier lifestyle, saying he is doing it not just for himself but also for his family.

In an Instagram post, the singer-songwriter said he has been more conscious of what

he eats, prioritizing healthy but still tasty food options.

"Kahit ang sarap sana mag-bacon and eggs with garlic rice, tapos may pork breakfast sausages... dito na lang muna ako sa steamed chicken chipolata with veggies," he said.

"Tapos kahit may champora-

do with danggit at dilis, I opted to have the miso soup. Tapos cucumber smoothie instead na hot chocolate. Ayos na, sobrang sarap pa rin," he added.

On top of these, Miranda also makes an effort to exercise regularly by walking, going to the gym, and riding a bike.

Megan Young and Mikael Daez are building a content studio

He has also stopped smoking and learned to reduce his alcohol consumption, opting only for "sakto" and "chill" drinking sessions.

According to Miranda, he started shifting to a healthier lifestyle because he wants to spend more time with his family.

"Nung nagkapamilya kasi ako, binago ko na 'yung lifestyle ko... Kasi gusto ko sila alagaan ng pinakamatagal na puwede, at ayoko sila iwan nang maaga," he explained. "I need to be healthy for them... not just me."

The "Idol Philippines" judge also believes that one can take steps to live longer and still be happy.

"Palagi kong sinasabi dati na hindi pahabaan ng buhay ang laban, kung 'di pasarapan," he acknowledged. "Pero 'pag may pamilya't mga anak ka na, magbabago talaga priorities mo and mag-iiba 'yung batayan mo ng kasiyahan."

"Enjoy pa rin dapat ang buhay, pero mas ingat lang kasi may mga inaalagaan ka na... na higit pa sa sarili mo."

(MNS)

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Megan Young and Mikael Daez are taking their creator's lifestyle to the next level.

The couple announced through an Instagram Reel that they are renovating a space to turn it into a content studio, called Daez Studio. For the past six months, they have been meeting with architects and engineers before demolition.

“Fofo and I have loved creating content and we’ve decided to take it to another level by creating a space where we can expand the content we create and push our limits further (huwaw)!!” Megan said in her caption.

“We’re so happy that this is finally happening because we’ve always envisioned having a space like this for our work,” she added.

Mikael and Megan tied the

knot in 2020 in intimate ceremonies. They previously worked together in the shows “Dangwa” and “The Stepdaughters,” and are currently starring in “Royal Blood.”

Some of Megan and Mikael’s hilarious content include the “Ba’t malungkot ang beshy ko?” trend, pranking each other, and Megan teasing Mikael about looking like Jin of BTS. (MNS)

Heaven Peralejo still on a high after FAMAS nomination