Weekend Balita (Los Angeles) June 5, 2021

LOS ANGELES EDITION

Some vaccinated Pinoys possibly becoming lax on health protocols — OCTA

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TOP STORIES

Global News Human rights violations under Duterte ‘incomparable’ to past admins — CHR spox 8  LTO warns against fixers, scammers on Facebook 8  Sara Duterte-Carpio will run for president in 2022 polls — lawmaker 9  Pacquiao hits Cusi for prioritizing politics amid rotational brownouts in Luzon 9  Dante leaves P268-M damage to infra in latest DPWH estimate 10  Senate to hold inquiry on rotational brownouts in Luzon 10  BI backs plan to establish ‘green lane’ for vaccinated foreigners 11  Pandemic halts deployment of Pinoy health workers to Japan 11  De Lima condemns cop’s ‘appalling and unacceptable’ killing of woman 12  Sotto says NPC waiting for his decision on Eleksyon 2022 plans 12  Drilon: Supreme Court has ruled that drug war records do not have national security implications 12 

Saturday-Friday | June 5 — 11, 2021

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

Garcetti signs close to a billion budget

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os Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti has signed the budget for the 2021-2022 Fiscal Year, a spending plan that dedicates nearly a billion dollars to confronting the homelessness crisis, $300 million for racial

and economic justice across the city, and commits critical resources to helping Angelenos recover from COVID-19. The Los Angeles City Council passed the final budget by a unanimous vote. “ Th i s budget i s

about more than recovering from a once in a generation crisis — it’s about bending the arc of our city’s history in the direction of greater equity and justice,” said Mayor Garcetti.

GARCETTI

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By ABNER GALINO

FILIPINO Americans has brought their opposition to the impending transfer of Philippine Airlines (PAL) planes to a new LAX gate before the members of the Los Angeles City Council on Wednesday (June 2).

Sections BUSINESS. Philippine debt balloons to nearly P11T as of end-April 2021 — Treasury 13  ENTERTAINMENT. Heart Evangelista reveals art collab with Incubus frontman Brandon Boyd 18  HEALTH & FAMILY. Covid-19 vax ‘imbalance’ must be corrected —Duterte 14  FEATURE. Santacruzan in the time of pandemic 16

fIL-aMS fIgHT TraNSfEr of PaL To NEW LaX gaTE

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A scene at the Los Angeles National Cemetery during the celebration of the Memorial Day on Monday (May 31). Photo by ABNER GALINO

On June 15, PAL flights will no longer be allowed to use the boarding gates of the LAX Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) and instead will be directed to the new Midfield Satellite Concourse (MSC).

Ethel Rubio, president of the University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Greater Los Angeles (UPAAGLA) told the online session of the LA City Council that the controversial decision of the Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) would not only

adversely affect the management of the PAL but, most of all, the senior Filipino American citizens.

The transfer, Rubio explained, would result in passengers getting additional 20-minute walk, via escalators/elevators and a long tunnel.

Senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) make up 35% of PAL customers f lying to Manila from LAX. According to sources, “there is no compelling need

Fully Vaccinated?

What the CDC Says You Should and Shouldn't Do Now How do I know if I am fully vaccinated?

A person is fully vaccinated two weeks after you have received the second dose of the two-shot Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna

COVID-19 vaccine or a single dose of the one-shot Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine.

New recommendations for fully vaccinated

What should I do after being fully vaccinated?

It is acceptable for fully vaccinated individuals to visit your children, grandchildren or friends within a single household who are at low risk for a severe case of coronavirus without wearing a mask or needing to social distance.

Fully vaccinated individuals may also visit with other fully vaccinated people indoors without masking or social distancing. Quarantining or getting tested after contact with someone who has COVID-19 is not necessary, as long as no symptoms are exhibited.

Do continue precautions that have been in place during most of the pandemic. When fully vaccinated people are visiting unvaccinated people from more than one household and/or are around people who are at high risk of getting severely ill from COVID-19, they should: • Wear a well-fitted mask • Stay at least 6 feet from people they do not live with • Get tested if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms • Follow guidance issued by individual employers

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccination at aarp.org/vaccineinfo Scan here to download free COVID-19 vaccine handbook

FIL-AMS

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ABNER GALINO, Fil-Am News Editor

Community Visit www.Balita.com

Saturday-Friday | June 5 - 11, 2021

STEM Majors Earned More Than Other STEM Workers

By JENNIFER CHEESEMAN DAY AND ANTHONY MARTINEZ

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ajoring in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) does not guarantee a job in a STEM occupation but it typically means a bump in pay.

Among the 50 million employed college graduates ages 25 to 64 in 2019, 37% reported a bachelor’s degree in science or engineering but only 14% worked in a STEM occupation, according to the Census Bureau’s 2019 American Commu-

nity Survey 1-year estimates.

This translates into less than a third (28%) of STEM-educated workers actually working in a STEM job.

STEM workers who majored in a STEM field in college typically made higher salaries than those who did not: on average, $101,100 vs. $87,600.

STEM jobs include computer occupations, mathematicians and statisticians, engineers, life scientists, and physical and social scientists. About half of the STEM

jobs were in computer occupations and another 29% in engineering in 2019.

STEM workers who majored in a STEM field in college typically made higher salaries than those who did not: on average, $101,100 vs. $87,600.

The vast majority (62%) of college-educated workers who majored in a STEM field were employed in non-STEM fields such as non-STEM management, law, education, social work, accounting or counseling. In addition, 10% of

STEM college graduates worked in STEM-related occupations such as health care.

The path to STEM jobs for nonSTEM majors was narrow. Only a few STEM-related majors (7%) and non-STEM majors (6%) ultimately ended up in STEM occupations.

STEM Job Opportunities Differ by Field About half of workers who majored in engineering (52%) or computer, mathematics, and statistics majors (51%) worked in STEM.

The difference between those who majored in engineering and computer, mathematics, and statistics majors was not statistically significant.

That means that about as many people with a computer or engineering background were just as likely to be employed in nonSTEM occupations. Some may have worked in STEM initially but transitioned later to a non-STEM occupation such as management.

Workers who studied other types

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Red Roses for St. Jude: A Live Virtual Benefit Concert with AJ Rafael and Friends Help end childhood cancer by supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital on June 7 on Twitch

LOS ANGELES (June 2, 2021) – On Monday, June 7, from 7-9 p.m. PDT, leading musician and artist AJ Rafael will host a special benefit concert on Twitch to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of his “Red Roses” album and to raise awareness and support the lifesaving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: Finding cures. Saving children.® Fans who donate to St. Jude can win the opportunity to be featured in Rafael’s “We Could Happen” lip sync video that will broadcasted during the livestream benefit concert.

“Bringing awareness on my platform for what St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is doing for the kids truly fills my cup,” said Rafael. “The fact that the celebration of my album is able to help others, especially at St. Jude, is part of my purpose in life and making music.”

Red Roses for St. Jude will feature an unparalleled musical line-up of leading Filipino artists, including AJ Rafael, Albert Posis, Alyssa Navarro, Kiana V, Jesse Barrera, and more. In addition to lending their musical talents to the livestream, these generous artists plan to announce their St. Jude donations to inspire their fans to do the same.

Roslynn Alba Cobarrubias of MYX, the largest global platform amplifying the next generation of Filipino artists, international stars, creatives, and filmmakers, will emcee.

Through live music and shared support, Red Roses for St. Jude offers an engaging way to raise awareness and support for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which is leading the way the world understands, treats, and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists worldwide can use that knowledge to save countless more children.

Thanks to generous donors, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing, or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. To make a donation, visit stjude.org/redroses.

About St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Its purpose is clear: Finding cures. Saving children.® It is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent to more than 80 percent since the hospital opened more than 50 years ago. St. Jude won’t stop until no child dies from cancer. St. Jude freely shares the discoveries it makes, and every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists worldwide can use that knowledge to save thousands more children. Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live.

Visit St. Jude Inspire to discover powerful St. Jude stories of hope, strength, love and kindness. Join the St. Jude mission by visiting stjude.org, liking St. Jude on Facebook, following St. Jude on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok, and subscribing to its YouTube channel.

About MYX Global A subsidiary of ABS-CBN, myx is the biggest global platform that celebrates the next generation of Filipino artists, creatives and filmmakers from around the world. It is a subsidiary of the Philippines-based ABS-CBN Global media giant and currently distributed in 20 million homes worldwide. For programming and distribution information, visit MYXTV and MYXRADIO at http://myx.global/.

Saturday-Friday | June 5 - 11, 2021

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MARIA CLARA AWARD. Philippine Consul General in Los Angeles Edgar Badajos

assists Philippine Women’s Club (PWC) president Trinity Foliente in conferring the organization’s so-called “Maria Clara Award” to Rosalie Gem Caratao.

The said award is given to an outstanding member of the PWC and has not been conferred to anyone in the last 20 years. Caratao was a former PWC president.

Caratao’s recognition was timed on the 60-year founding anniversary of the PWC. The celebration was held at the Church of Scientology Auditorium in Burbank.

Maria Clara is a fictional character in the novel “Noli Me Tangere” which was written by national hero Dr. Jose Rizal while he was fighting the oppressive Spanish colonial government in the Philippines.

Act Now to Get Affordable Home Internet

By RACHELLE ARIZMENDI

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ith over 4 million people in the United States, Filipino Americans are the 3rd largest Asian American group in the county. In California, we are the largest Asian American group with 1.6 million. Although Filipino Americans have an average household income higher than the average US household income, there are many Filipinos living in poverty. The pandemic showed us how stark the digital divide really is in our community.

We have to close the digital divide and get all California Filipino households connected to Home Internet Service.

Now there is a limited-time program offered by FCC that eligible households can get Home Internet service for free or as low as $23 per month. Those that are living in a home with a low household income may be eligible to get a discount on Home Internet (up to $50 a month off the bill), making many services significantly cheaper or even free in some cases.

The Emergency Broadband Benefit, a new temporary federal program, may only last a few months so don't wait, learn if you or a community you support are eligible and apply today. https:// internetforallnow.org/applytoday Here are some tips to find out if you may be eligible and if so, how to apply.

This program is designed to help get more people connected to the Internet at home for online learning, for work, for job training, for healthcare, for engaging with people in your life and your community. You must act fast because the offer may only last for a few months: ● It is easy to qualify for the Emergency Broadband Benefit if you or a

household member is already enrolled in another government-backed program, including the Lifeline Program, National School Lunch Program (NSLP), CalFresh (food stamp), Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), Medi-Cal, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or a college student with a Pell Grant, and more. The benefit is up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal Lands. ● Eligibility also extends to households where someone in the household lost income during the pandemic due to job loss or furlough. ● It will take just minutes to sign up, if you are already enrolled in an Internet Service Provider’s discount program for households with low-incomes. ● For households in the Lifeline program already receiving a discount for mobile phone service, you can keep that service and still be eligible to use the new up-to-$50 a month discount to pay for a better home Internet plan or more data on your mobile phone.

Please share this information about this important benefit with your family, friends, neighbors and school and community leaders.

Don't wait, learn if you or a community you support are eligible and apply today. https://internetforallnow.org/ applytoday or call 844-841-INFO. Rachelle Arizmendi is the Mayor of City of Sierra Madre and Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment (PACE), one of the largest Asian Pacific Islander (API) community development corporation in the nation.

SHOWBIZ WAITS FOR MISS RABIYA MATEO

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iss Universe-Philippines Rabiya Mateo takes a selfie with Olivia Quido-Co, owner of the O Skin Med Spa in Cerritos. The beauty who has been doing rounds in Los Angeles visited the beauty/health spa recently. She has told the media that she is excited and ready to take on the opportunities that has opened for her as a result of her stint in the world famous pageant.

Rabiya also gamely acknowledged that show business has opened its door for her and that she is ready to jump in and take her chance.

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Sweetwater Union HS District reinstates Fil-Am principal

(San Diego, CA) – About eleven months after being demoted from her position as principal of Chula Vista High School (CVHS), Mary Rose Peralta was reinstated as full-fledged principal at Otay Ranch High School.

Shortly after the official announcement, Peralta posted an update on social media stating that “On Monday night, ‘interim’ was removed before ‘principal’ by the Board of Trustees.” Peralta added that she was “thankful, humbled, and blessed” after a memorandum dated 11 May 2021 and signed by Eduardo Reyes, Chief Human Resources Officer of Sweetwater Union High School District, was released to personnel on the same day.

The school administrator was removed from her position in CVHS in June and demoted as middle school principal, a move that prompted former students, the school community, and the public to launch online and street protests.

Back in August, close to 10,000 supporters signed the online petition and hundreds of community members went out to the streets and honked their vehicles demanding reinstatement of the Filipino American educator. In October 2020, approximately two months after the protest was organized outside Sweetwater Union High School District headquarters in Chula Vista, Peralta was again transferred from the Chula Vista Middle School to Otay Ranch High School and given the title ‘interim principal.’

On Tuesday, Peralta was greeted by

personnel and staff after receiving an email from the Board of Trustees of Peralta’s permanent appointment in the same school.

“I am happy where I am right now and with this new development, I am humbled. Otay Ranch High School is a big school system itself and there are a lot of opportunities to grow,” said Peralta.

In addition to this development, another Filipino American school administrator, Jason Josafat, who was also removed from his position back in June, was given a permanent appointment as Assistant Principal at Bonita Vista High School.

Although reasons for Peralta’s removal last year were not made public, speculations revolve around a photo opportunity where the principal gave graduating seniors a ‘creative opportunity’ where their names were drawn on the football field and allowed students to take photos of them on the field. Community members believed it was an unfair action taken against the school administrator.

Peralta, who came to the United States as a fresh graduate from Manila in 1990, spent more than 30 years as an educator in the Sweetwater Union educational system. Bringing with her an undergraduate degree in literature from the University of the Philippines, Peralta began her teaching career at Montgomery High School. She became an administrator in 2000 and has been serving in the school district as principal for the past 12 years. Peralta has been known as a highly

decorated administrator having been awarded as Administrator of the Year by the Association of California School Administrators and Woman of the Year.

During the entire ordeal, Peralta remained mum on the issue and only gave a public statement in an interview by The Filipino School after the new appointment was released this month. Peralta indicated that she had “moved on beyond the hurt” and that she will continue to be inspired by the support she received from her family and the community.

“This difficult journey has opened my eyes to the importance of service, community, and doing the right thing. I have grown as a person and as a leader.

I am humbled by my peers' and by the community's faith and belief in my commitment to students and in my skills as an educator and instructional leader,” she said.

Her commitment as a school administrator and a community leader is likewise invested into building a better future for the youth.

“I am committed to continuing the hard work of doing what is best and what is right for our children, our families, our educators, and our community,” she added.

One Filipino American community The Filipino School, a not-for-profit organization in San Diego, took a significant part in the protests as a way of extending support to members of the Filipino American and Asian American

Donaire KO’s Frenchman foe, makes history Photo by Noel Ty A left hook by Filipino boxing icon Nonito Donaire floored French boxer Nordine Oubaali twice on the third round of their match at the Dignity Health Sports Park in the City of Carson on Saturday (May 29).

On the 4th round, Donaire relentlessly pursued Oubaali and ended the fight at 1:52 in the round.

As Oubaali tried to get up from the canvass, Referee Jack Reiss decided that the French fighter has had enough.

With the impressive win, Donaire captured the WBC Bantamweight World Crown and bec ome a t h r ee - t ime bantamweight world champion.

communities who may be discriminated against. As a volunteer, Peralta was a founding faculty member of the school.

Co-Founder Tony Olaes said he was involved in the protests not only due to Peralta’s affiliation with The Filipino School but her being a member of the Filipino American community. When Peralta was publicly demoted without reason, Olaes said he knew he had to engage.

“I didn’t want our community to be looked upon as weak,” Olaes said during the protest rally in August.

Olaes is one of the active community leaders in California who has been vocal about refusing to “take it when minority Asian Americans experience discrimination everywhere.”

Police data show that in the first quarter of 2021, cases on Asian hate crimes in the United States had spiked to 164%.

This is believed to be caused by rhetoric about the coronavirus' origins in Asia and China. Several incidents have been reported in many cities across the country where Asians were subjected to random attacks. According to Olaes, it is at this time where Asian American communities and, in particular, Filipino American communities show strength as one.

“The results on Mary Rose Peralta and Jason Josafat’s permanent appointments is a win for our Filipino American community. It showed our strength when one of our own is affected, our community will answer to that call every single time,” Olaes added.

STEM... from Page 2 of STEM majors found employment in STEM occupations at much lower rates.

Just over a quarter of physical science majors (28%), for example, were employed in STEM. The percentages were even lower for STEM majors in biology, environmental, and agricultural science (16%), psychology (10%) and social science (9%).

In addition, STEM jobs attracted more workers with advanced degrees. About 40% of college-educated STEM workers had a graduate degree.

Different Paths for Foreign- and Native-Born Workers The global contribution to America’s economy was especially visible in the STEM workforce: 29% of college-educated STEM workers were foreign-born.

This was most notable in the tech sector, where foreign-born people made up about a third of computer workers with a college degree and about half with a graduate degree.

The high proportion of foreign-born workers in these fields may reflect corporate recruitment for specific positions through the H1B visa program, which is designed to bring in workers to fill positions that require specialized skills.

Workers in these positions tended to earn premium wages.

This may account for the higher median earnings of foreign-born workers compared with their native-born counterparts.

Native-born STEM workers (who did not go through the visa screening filter) were less likely than their foreign-born counterparts to have a STEM-major (69% vs 81%).

Majoring in STEM Pays Off There was an earnings boost for STEM majors in all STEM occupation groups, except for life scientists such as biologists and agricultural and food scientists.

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FIL-AMS... from Page 1 for the transfer” as the MSC was built to deal with a lack of gate space at LAX. “But with the lower levels of travel during the pandemic there is more than sufficient capacity at the main TBIT today,” the source explained.

Another source revealed that PAL is allegedly “being punished for not being a part of a larger airline alliance, as airport staff has informed us that keeping alliance partners together was a big part of the decision to move PAL.” “Los Angeles County is home to the second-largest concentration of Filipinos in the world, surpassed only by Manila.”

PAL also offers the only direct flight to Manila in the entire region.

PAL was notified of its formal move date on May 7, 2021. The move was first scheduled to take place on June 1 but LAWA moved this to June 15.

PAL is the top wheelchair user among international carriers which averaged 3,320/month (arrivals+departures)

wheelchair passengers in 2019.

The number of wheelchair passengers can go as high as 80 in one flight (one way).

Those opposing LAWA’s order also claimed that the new gates are not yet “equipped to handle international passengers getting on long-haul flights as the concession are not up and running.”

Temporary fixes are being proposed, they said, but international flights should be using these gates until the terminal is fully operational.

Previously, Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) National Los Angeles coordinator Art Garcia, wrote to LA Mayor Eric Garcetti and asked for his intervention on the matter.

LAWA is a branch of the City of Los Angeles and governed by a seven-member Board of Airport Commissioners who are appointed by the Mayor of Los Angeles and approved by the City Council.

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NJ State Senators pass "Daniel's Law" in response to Judge Esther Salas' heartbreaking appeal after son's murder

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our New Jersey State Senators namely: Senator Joe Cryan, Senator Nick Scutari, Senator Nellie Pou and Senator Bob Smith collectively passed Bill S-2797, which "prohibits the disclosure of personal home addresses of current or retired federal, state and municipal officers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, their spouses and their children." These four senators passed the Bill in response to the fatal attack on Judge Esther Salas' son, Daniel, 20, who was shot and killed on July 19, 2020 while opening the front door of their family's home by an armed disgruntled lawyer who was able to locate Judge Salas' home address. The assailant also shot and severely wounded Judge Salas' husband, prominent criminal lawyer, Mark Anderl.

On a televised interview last Sunday, May 30, 2021, on "60 Minutes," Judge Esther Salas has called for "measures to better protect judges, as a means to honor her only son and that at the least, her son's death was not in vain."

According to Senator Joe Cryan (D-Union, NJ), who was a former Union County Sheriff who oversaw County courthouse security in Union County said: "the tragic incident on Judge Salas' family was also an attack on the justice system and the rule of law that is administered with fairness. It is a terrible tragedy that took the life of a young man with a promising future. This Bill will honor the legacy of Daniel Anderl and respect the loving memory of his family."

Senator Nick Scutari (D-Union, NJ), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, also said: "we must act to protect our public officials and their families from potential attacks. The targeting of Judge Salas at her private residence by a gunman, resulting in the tragic death of their son and the serious wounding of her husband, underscores the need for us to do more to protect our judges

and their families," Further, he said: " domestic terrorism is a very real threat in today's society. Not long ago, a gunman attempted to take the life of then Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, and another gunman opened fire at a congressional softball game and most recently, there was a foiled plot to kidnap and murder the governor of Michigan. This is a vital first step in ensuring the safety of our public officials in New Jersey."

In addition, Senator Nellie Pou (D-Bergen/ Pasaic), said: "Judges and other court officers who serve our legal system deserve to be protected from any possible attack or retaliation, for merely performing their sworn duties.

What happened to Judge Esther Salas and her family and in particular the fatal shooting of her son Daniel in their own home, must never happen again. We passed this law restricting access to home addresses of Judges and others who work in our court system will add a layer of protection to these public servants."''

"As a representative and resident of Middlesex County, I was shocked, heartbroken and angered by the home attack on Judge Salas and her family, which left her husband critically wounded and ended in the death of their only son. Daniel," said Senator Bob Smith (D-Middlesex/Somerset). Further he said: "the family of Judge Salas are among my constituents, so it is important for me that I am a part of any action we can take in response to the horrific incident. We have to do more to protect our Judges, prosecutors and officers from violent retaliation, especially when people are planning physical violence against our civil servants."

As a background, Esther Salas (born in Monterey Park, California on December 20, 1968) is a United States District Judge of the US District Court for the district of New Jersey, sitting in Newark, New Jersey, she previously served as a US Magistrate Judge at the same Court from 2008, until her confirmation as a District Judge in 2011.

How we take care of families of those who died serving in U.S. Armed Forces

By TRACY A. LOVELESS

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his Memorial Day as we honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. armed forces, we also remember the families they left behind and look at how the government supports them.

Family members such as a surviving spouse, surviving parent, or dependent child are eligible for some of the benefits the government provides survivors in honor of service members’ sacrifices.

Of the individual nonveterans who received survivor benefits, roughly 80% were women and three-quarters were widowed. Their mean age: 71.

According to the Census Bureau’s Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP), about 20 million or 15.4% of the nation’s households had at least one veteran present in 2017. About 5.9 million of these homes received some type of government assistance — such as education, health insurance and survivor pensions — related to military service.

But some 600,000 households without a veteran present also received military compensation in 2017. While some are non-veteran members of the National Guard, the majority (76%) are “survivor” households, those with the surviving spouse, children or parents of someone who died during active service.

Who Are the Survivors?

Of the individual nonveterans who received survivor benefits, roughly 80% were women and three-quarters were widowed. Their mean age: 71.

These stats suggest that the majority of benefit recipients were surviving spouses, though parents and dependent children are also eligible.

There are numerous programs available to service members and the families of those who died.

Among them: Home loans. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs loan programs are available to veterans, current members of the armed forces and military families/survivors, make buying

a home much easier. There’s no down payment, lower interest rates and you can borrow as much as 100% of a home’s value. About 7% of survivors have a VA loan, according to the SIPP. Health care. Comprehensive health care benefits are available to veterans and survivors through either CHAMPVA or TRICARE, depending on their circumstances. In 2017, half of survivors were covered under military health care.

Pension. A VA Survivors pension offers monthly payments to surviving spouses and unmarried dependent children through the VA Dependency and Compensation (DIC) program. The monthly amount varies depending on what year the military member died, if they had a disability and the number of children.

About half of survivors received a pension from from DIC in 2017.

Education. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs reports that in fiscal year 2019, over 900,000 veterans and/or family members received education benefits totaling almost $12 billion. The largest education program was the Post-9/11 GI Bill that provided benefits to 714,000 veterans or family members, at a cost of almost $11 billion. While the SIPP does not provide information on survivors’ use of VA education benefits, we do know that half of the survivors counted in the 2017 SIPP attended college.

Nothing can replace the men and women who died in service to their country. But there are many government programs available to help their families. More information on eligibility is available in the VA Benefits For Spouses, Survivors, And Dependents report.

The SIPP is the nation’s premier source of information for income and program participation. It collects data and measures change in Americans’ economic well-being, family dynamics, education, assets, health insurance, child care, and food security.

Tracy A. Loveless is a survey statistician in the Census Bureau’s Program Participation and Income Transfers Branch.

Daniel Anderl and his parents, Mark Anderl and Judge Esther Salas She is the first Hispanic woman to serve as a Magistrate and as a District Judge in the district of New Jersey.

Salas is the daughter of a Cuban mother, Aurelia who is Catholic and a Mexican father who is Jewish. When she was five years old, she moved with her mother and her siblings to Union, New Jersey and lost contact with her father, though they would later reconnect during background checks for her appointment as a federal judge. While growing up, she recalled having to translate for her mother at the welfare office, as well as help friends who have various problems in their lives, which led her to pursue a career focusing on human services.

Esther Salas attended Emerson High School in Union City, where she was involved in extracurricular activities, including cheerleading.in 1987. After graduating from high

school, she attended Rutgers University, where she lived on campus and graduated in 1991, but further pursued a Juris Doctor degree from Rutgers University School of Law and graduated in 1994. Through her perseverance in education, she credits her educational and professional success to the Minority Student Program.

After her law school graduation, Salas served as a law clerk to Eugene J Codey, Jr., of the Superior Court of New Jersey and from 1995 to 1997, she worked for Garces and Grabler, P.C. where she practiced criminal matters in both superior and municipal courts.

Between 1997 and 2006, she served as an Assistant Federal Public Defender for the District of New Jersey. representing indigent defendants.in federal matters.

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BEST TIME TO DISPUTE YOUR CREDIT ERRORS

DUE to Cov id, major it y of t he customer service business has been affected and employees either were laid off or have to work from home.

Credit dispute is a redundant work for most of the three credit agencies, but this could be an advantage to a borrower that might want to dispute an error on the report at this time.

The agencies have a certain timeline to report back a dispute from a consumer, if they don’t reply back in due time, the bureaus’ have to remove the disputed account automatically.

Understanding how they come up with your Fico score will help you try and keep your Fico score at a higher level to obtain better rates on cars, home loans and consumer credit cards.

FALLACY: My score determines whether or not I get credit FACT: Lenders use a number of facts to make credit decisions, including your FICO score. Lender information such as the amount of debt you can reasonably handle given your income, your employment and your credit history. Based on their perception of this information, as well as their specific understanding, lenders may extend credit to you although your score is low, or decline your request for credit although its high.

FALLACY: A poor score will haunt me forever FACT: Just the opposite is true. A score is a “snapshot” of your risk at a particular point in time. It changes as information is added to your bank and credit bureau files. Score change gradually as you change the way you handle credit. For example, past credit problems impact your score less as time passes. Lenders request a current score when you submit a credit application, so they have the most recent information available.

Therefore by taking time to improve your score, you can qualify for your favorable interest rates.

any longer. It does not mean that your derogatory remark will be deleted, in fact by closing your revolving accounts with late payments, that will only reduce your credit accounts and limit. Therefore review your overall account first before deciding on closing any accounts. The scoring system always looks at your open accounts and rate you based on your account balances versus credit limits, your credit history and your length of time you have had credit.

FALLACY: Credit scoring is unfair to minorities FACT: Scoring considers on ly credit-related information. Factors like gender, race, nationality and marital status are not included. In fact, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act prohibits lenders from considering this type of information when issuing credit. Independent research has been done to make sure that credit scoring is not unfair to minorities or people with little credit history.

Scoring has proven to be an accurate and consistent measure of repayment for all people who have some credit history. In other words, at a given score, non minority and minority applications are equally likely to pay as agreed.

FALLACY: Credit scoring infringes on my privacy FACT: Credit scoring evaluates the same information lenders already look at –the credit bureau report, credit application and/or your bank file. A score is simply a numeric summary of that information. Lenders using sometimes ask for less information – fewer questions on the application form, for example.

FALLACY: My score will drop if I apply for new credit FACT: If it does, it probably won’t drop much. If you apply for several credit cards within a short period of time, multiple requests for your credit report information (called “inquiries”)

will appear on your report. Looking for new credit can equate with higher risk, but most credit scores are not affected by multiple inquiries from auto or mortgage lenders within a short period of time. Typically, these are treated as a single inquiry and will have little impact on the credit score.

FA L L AC Y: A f ter seven yea rs, negative remarks on my credit report will be removed automatically FACT: It is actually seven years from the last report date. Creditors may continue to report you even after a few years from the time you filed for bankruptcy or charge off an account.

If they continue to report you then the negative remark will continue to stay on your credit report. You will have to report this to the bureau that these accounts were included in your bankruptcy and provide proof to report correctly.

FALLACY: If I close my account with derogatory remarks, it will make my credit better.

FACT: If you have an account with some late pay, collection or a charged off rating. By closing that account it will not mean that you are deleting that account, it will only mean that you will not be able to use the account

FALLACY: Can I get 100% loan with a 550 credit score.

FACT: Here are the credit limitations for 100% financing as far as my list of investors are concerned. For fully documented files ( verified income ) the minimum credit score is 580. For self employed and wage earners who would like to go with a stated income, the minimum scores required are between 620-640 and above. With 5% or more down your options for a lower credit score required are greater.

FALLACY: Does the FICO Scoring system equally rate you based on your current accounts and new credit.

FACT: A confirmed breakdown of it as per www.myfico.com is as follows: 35% towards debt payment history 30% Total amount owed 15% Length of credit 10% Types of credit in used 10% New Credit Thank you for all your inquiries, hope this information will help you in your quest for a better opportunity.

Please feel f ree to call at your convenience for further discussion on new loan programs available. (562) 508-7048 CABRE01021223 NMLS 238636

How Debt Settlement Can Help You Avoid Bankruptcy

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YOUR credit card payments are past due. You’re confused and don’t know what to do. The bill collectors are calling you non-stop and writing you threatening letters. What do you do? Should you just file bankruptcy? Or are there other options?

Most people are unaware that credit card companies will negotiate with you if they believe that it is in their best interest to do so.

Many times, it is possible to negotiate a significant reduction and save yourself thousands of dollars. How does debt settlement work?

If you are delinquent in payments, perhaps you are afraid of what creditors may do next. Maybe bill collectors are calling you all day long. You might get nervous every time someone knocks on your door because it could be someone handing you a summons for a lawsuit. Or it may be that your accounts are already in collections, a lawsuit has been filed or even worse, like a judgment or a wage garnishment may already be pending. Maybe you’ve even tried calling debt collectors at one point and begged them for some kind of payment plan that you can afford and they said NO. If a debt collector tells you that it is “their policy not to settle debts”, don’t believe it.

If you are behind in payments, this is when debt settlement may actually be a good idea especially if you are trying to avoid …

CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

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Can I Enforce a form I-864 Affidavit of Support in Divorce Proceedings?

THE Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 requires that US Citizens sponsoring an alien for legal permanent residency execute an immigration form I-864 Affidavit of Support. This is an agreement between the US Government and the Sponsor to promise to support the immigrant beneficiary seeking admission to the US at a level not less than 125% of the national poverty level. The purpose of the I-864 Affidavit is to prevent the noncitizen from becoming a public charge. The sponsor’s obligation continues until either 1) the intended immigrant becomes 2) the intended immigrant is no longer permanent resident by departing the US or relinquishing his or her residency 3) the immigrant is subject to removal or deportation but applies for and obtains anew adjustment of status based on a new affidavit of support 4) the intended immigrant or sponsor dies 5) the intended immigrant worked for 40 qualifying quarters under the Social Security Act. The I-864 affidavit is legally binding and enforceable contract between the Sponsor and the US Government. The enforceability

whether that obligation continues on. It may be a separate claim for support available to the immigrant spouse within the family law case.

even goes beyond this. The sponsored immigrant spouse can also enforce this contract against the sponsor and file an action to enforce the sponsor’s support obligation separately from any support rights the sponsored immigrant spouse may have under Family Code Section 4320. Erler v. Erler, 824 F.3d 1173 (9th Cir. 2016). This obligation becomes an important issue where the marriage between the Sponsor and the immigrant beneficiary breaks down and a Divorce Petition is filed. The I-864 obligation does not terminate with divorce or dissolution of marriage. Pursuant to Erler, neither a divorce judgment nor a premarital agreement may terminate an obligation of support under the

MINDING YOUR FINANCES… FROM PAGE 6

filing for bankruptcy. This doesn’t work in all situations but there are certainly a lot of scenarios where bankruptcy may be avoided and debts can be settled using the least amount of money possible.

It is a known fact in the collection business that as time goes on, the ability to collect on a debt diminishes. Thus, the longer your accounts have been in collections, the better your chance of settling your debts for a significantly reduced amount. For example, it is my experience that creditors will settle for about 30-60 cents of the original debt amount.

What type of debt can be negotiated? Actually, debt settlement is possible not only for credit cards but for almost all types of debts.

The list includes medical bills, bounced checks, personal loans, department store cards, auto repossession deficiencies, etc.

Debt settlement works best in situations where the debtor has the ability to produce enough cash to settle for 30-60% of the amount owed. The reason is that creditors are often only willing to settle for less than full amount only if you pay them in a lump sum as opposed to paying in installments. If you are a homeowner, you may be able to refinance and use your home equity for debt settlement.

If you do not own a home, perhaps you can sell personal property that you don’t need, borrow cash from a relative or maybe take money out of your 401K plan. If, on the other hand, you don’t have a lot of cash available, do not lose hope. So long as you are employed or have some source of income, creditors may still agree to monthly payments over a period of time although in this scenario, creditors will not be as flexible in reducing the original debt amount.

Filing bankruptcy may make more sense than debt settlement in certain situations where property is exempt and beyond the reach of the bankruptcy trustee and creditors. If you are eligible, Chapter 7 bankruptcy allows you to wipe out debts you can no longer afford to pay so that you can start fresh immediately. Chapter 13 allows you to consolidate debts into one affordable monthly payment, so that you are not stressing out every month with not having enough income to pay living expenses and debts at the same time.

Debt settlement, Chapter 7 or Chapter 13- These are your usual options in dealing with debt problems. If you are currently in financial hot water and don’t know what to do, seek legal help and find out what is appropriate for your situation.

For a free consultation and debt analysis, call Toll-Free 1-866477-7772. NOTE: Due to COVID-19 concerns, I am offering free consultations BY PHONE OR VIDEO to anyone who needs help in dealing with their debt problems.

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

I-864 affidavit. The obligation is not dischargeable even if the immigrant spouse is later supported by a third party or attempts to be self-sufficient.

Further if a Joint Sponsor also signed an I-864 affidavit, the Joint Sponsor is jointly and severally liable for the support of the immigrant spouse.

The immigrant spouse has an independent standing to enforce the obligation under the I-864 affidavit against the sponsor either in state court or federal court.

In re Marriage of Kumar, 13 Cal. App. 5th 1072 (2017). This means the sponsor’s support obligation under the I-864 affidavit may be enforced within the family law case/ divorce action. In addition, the Court in Kumar held that immigrant spouse has no duty to seek employment to mitigate his or her damages. The bottom line is that in any divorce proceeding, one has to consider whether one spouse has signed an I-864 affidavit in the past for purposes of conferring a green card to the other spouse and

Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information.

This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APLC. This article is not a solicitation.

Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist.

He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APLC is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com

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IN-HOME CAREGIVERS: ARE YOU PAID OVERTIME? If you are employed as a 24-hour caregiver, working around-the-clock to provide care and assistance to an individual inside their home, you are most likely entitled to overtime compensation. If you are paid a fixed daily rate, regardless of the actual hours you work or the quality and quantity of work you perform, you are not receiving overtime compensation and likely have a valuable claim for wage theft. This is true whether you are hired directly by the care recipient or paid though a home care agency.

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

Starting in 2021, most 24-hour caregivers working in California must be paid a minimum of $409.50 per day to comply with the requirements of the DWBR. The first 9-hours of work should be paid at the legal minimum wage rate of $13.00 per hour, which equals $117.00. Then, for the remaining 15 hours, the law requires overtime payments at a rate of $19.50 per hour, which amounts to an additional $292.50 per day.

Unfortunately, in actual practice, most caregivers receive far less than the applicable minimum wage, often earning as little as $180 to $240 per day. A 24-hour caregiver who is earning less than $409.50 per day likely has a very valuable claim for wage theft.

For example, if you are a caregiver working 24-hours per day, 5 days per week for a daily rate of $200/day, your weekly unpaid overtime claim is calculated as follows: Your daily rate of $200 is divided by 9 hours to calculate a regular rate of pay, equal to $22.22 per hour. Your overtime rate is 1.5 times your

regular rate of pay, which amounts to $33.33 per hour.

Your pre-determined salary does not compensate you, at all, for the 15 daily overtime hours you work.

So, each day, you accrue $500.00 of unpaid overtime wages. Employers, who willfully fail to pay an employee the requisite overtime compensation, are also subject to liquidated damages, which could add an additional $195.00 per day to the wage theft claim. Plus, the law provides for interest, attorneys fees, and penalties.

In the above example, the hypothetical caregiver is owed $3,475 in unpaid overtime wages per week. On a yearly basis, the overtime claim alone exceeds $180,000. We have helped many caregivers whose claims exceed $500,000 in damages with the addition of penalties, liquidated damages and interest, after working for several years.

Caregivers, who are victims of wage theft, may recover their unpaid wages going back 4 years from the date a lawsuit is filed in court. We have helped many caregivers file claims against their former employers. Even if you last worked several years ago, you still have time to pursue a claim. The one exception is if the care recipient patient has passed away. In that instance, a claim against the care recipient’s estate must be filed within 1 year of their passing, or sooner if an estate has been opened.

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

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

This article is an attorney advertisement written by Daniel Chaleff, employment law attorney at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson. Our office is located at 5855 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Suite 400, Woodland Hills, 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. We offer a 24-hour chat line on our website.

Human rights violations under Duterte 'incomparable' to past admins — CHR spox MANILA (Mabuhay) — The number of human rights violations in the country under President Rodrigo Duterte is “incomparable” to previous administrations, Commission on Human Rights spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said Thursday.

“First, no particular administration has been spared of human rights violation. Every administration committed its fair share of human rights violation.

But currently the rate and the scale is incomparable, it’s higher than other administrations,” De Guia said.

De Guia said the commission is investigating 3,295 cases of alleged extrajudicial killing and they are also looking into the killings of journalists, lawyers, judges, activists, and those who belong to the vulnerable sector.

“Never has there been a time that we have been so overwhelmed with the number of cases we are handling right now,” she said.

A sked on whet her Duter te himself has played a role in these human rights violations, De Guia cited the President’s wide influence among Filipinos especially to government officials.

“Words matter. We have repeatedly said that he is very influential to his constituents and even the government officials under him and therefore, we would want the highest ranking official to be very circumspect with his language to encourage

accountability,” she said.

De Guia also agreed that Duterte's promises to protect police officers also played a role in the increase of police abuses in the country.

She said the protection of police officers "encourages and emboldens" the law enforcers.

“It is the reason for impunity, killing is normalized. We hope that the PNP (Philippine National Police) will stay true to the PNP manual of operations,” she said.

De Guia likewise noted that the non-cooperation of the police force in the probe of killings across the country remain an “insurmountable” challenge for the commission.

In the previous years, she said the PNP was not cooperating with the

CHR only in cases related to drugs, but currently, De Guia said there are some instances that they were not given access to records even in ordinary cases.

On Wednesday, the CHR has lamented Duterte’s recent statement, claiming that records on the deaths of drug suspects and communist rebels could not be divulged due to “security issues.”

The commission tagged this as a “new roadblock” to investigations into drug war deaths.

Duterte’s statement came after the PNP said it would grant the Department of Justice (DOJ) access to the records of drug war deaths as part of an inter-agency panel review of the controversial campaign. (MNS)

LTO warns against fixers, scammers on Facebook MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Wed nesday ha s warned the public against giving out personal information on social media especially against scammers and fixers -- those who offer a driver’s license without taking an exam -- for a price.

In an advisory, the LTO specifically warned against a Facebook page with the handle @ OfficialLTOlicenseassistance or LTO License Assistance Center, noting that the page offers the processing of driver’s licenses and charges PHP3,500 to PHP6,500.

“These scammers are encou rag ing f i x ing t h roug h non-taking and non-appearance in the driver’s license exam,” the LTO said.

It caut ioned t he publ ic against providing private and personal information to such pages and individuals as it could result in possible “identity theft and other unlawful activities”.

The driver’s licenses issued through the said Facebook page or any other individual outside an LTO office are “counterfeit and invalid”, it said.

“Thus, a motorist who is caught possessing a fake license will be meted with stiffer penalties,” the LTO added.

(MNS)

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Sara Duterte-Carpio will run for president in 2022 polls — lawmaker MANILA (Mabuhay) — There is "no doubt" that Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio will run for president in next year's elections, a lawmaker said Thursday.

"There’s no doubt in my mind based on our exchange of chats and this has been long running that she will definitely run in 2022," Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda said when asked if Duterte-Carpio will run for president in next year's elections.

"Nagpaalam ako sa kanya kasi ang dami na, simula 2 weeks ago, kinukulit na po talaga ako at tumatanggi ako, sabi ko baka dapat ikaw na. Sabi niya, ‘ikaw na muna.'"

The Davao City mayor is "going through the process of building alliances," he added.

"I think if you look at the current lay of the land, it's possible that she will run unopposed," he said.

Pacquiao hits Cusi for prioritizing politics amid rotational brownouts in Luzon MANILA (Mabuhay) — Amid the intramurals in PDP-Laban, Senator Manny Pacquiao slammed Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi on Wednesday for allegedly prioritizing politics over addressing the power outages in Luzon.

In a privilege speech, Pacquiao hit the “recurring” problem of brownouts across the country despite statements of Cusi, assuring the country that there is

President Rodrigo Duterte's daughter topped recent surveys on potential presidential candidates but she has consistently denied eyeing the country's highest post.

The President had also said his daughter will not succeed him in 2022.

Salceda said he and Duterte-Carpio "go a long way back when we’re both RDC (regional development committee) chairpersons."

He added that he also served as "messenger" when House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco ousted Taguig-Pateros Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano for the chamber's top post.

Salceda said the "same thing happened," during the ouster of former speaker and now Davao del Norte Rep. Panteleon Alvarez when he was replaced by former Pampanga Rep Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during the President's third State of the Nation Address. (MNS)

no looming energy crisis.

“P a u l it-u l it p o a k on g nananawagan na itigil na muna natin ang politika. Napakarami po nating problema na dapat nating harapin at hanapan ng solusyon,” Pacquiao said.

“Pero nakakalungkot isipin na 'yung ibang mga opisyales po namin na dapat ay nangangasiwa ng sitwasyon, ng mga problema natin na kinakaharap natin ngayong panahon na ito ay wala po tayo, ang inuna po ay pamumulitika,” he added.

He delivered the speech days after Cusi, the vice chairman of the ruling party, led the PDP-Laban’s national council meeting despite call of Pacquiao, who sits as party’s president, to skip the event.

“I’m talking directly to Sec. Cusi na as a PDP member, kasamahan sa partido, kung anuman 'yung mga ganyang sitwasyon, anuman 'yung mga pagkukulang natin ay nakakapekto sa aming mga PDP members na kasama

MAYOR SARA DUTERTE-CARPIO

namin sa isang partido,” he went on.

Pacquiao recalled Cusi’s statement five years ago, saying the Philippines will not face power crisis.

“Here we are, having brownouts. Nasa red alert pa naman tayo ngayon. We’re expecting bigger problems pertaining to power supply, have we done enough preparations for a surge in power supply demand this summer?” he asked.

“This is a recurring problem.

We cannot rely on the same strategies to solve this problem on the rapidly growing demand for power supply. We need to innovate, to secure renewable energy sources,” he added.

Pacquiao stressed that the problems within the ruling party can be resolved “at the right time” but the Energy chief should address the problem in energy supply which affects the students, workers, businesses, and even the storage of COVID-19 vaccines.

The lawmaker emphasized that the entire PDP-Laban is being dragged to the energy issue as Cusi is one of their members.

“Ang partido ng PDP ang naapektuhan kasi Secretary Cusi is a member of PDP party. So lahat kaming members nadadamay kami,” he said, adding that even President Rodrigo Duterte will be dragged in the issue.

“Naapektuhan din ang Pangulo niyan dahil pinagkatiwalaan ka ng Pangulo, nilagay ka d’yan dahil nagtiwala s’ya sa’yo, hindi 'yung madismaya ang Pangulo sa’yo. Kaya dapat ipakita din natin na may accomplishment tayong nagawa,” he added.

During the interpellation of his privilege speech, Pacquiao also said Cusi is “incompetent” in leading the DOE as the energy problem still persists until now.

The lawmaker also said accountability should be demanded from Cusi, noting that he has the command responsibility in the DOE.

REP. JOEY SALCEDA

“I hope the President will take action on the problem dahil bilyon ang malulugi 'pag may blackout,” he added.

In a forum early in the day, Cusi said he and the Department of Energy (DOE) are addressing the thin power supply hounding the Luzon grid amid criticisms that he is more focused on politics.

On Tuesday, Bayan Muna party-list Representative Carlos Isagani Zarate has called on Cusi to address the thin power supply in Luzon instead of attending to intramurals in the ruling PDP-Laban.

During the ruling party’s national council meeting on Monday in Cebu, a resolution calling on President Rodrigo Duterte to run for vice president in the 2022 elections was adopted.

The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines has raised Red and Yellow alerts over Luzon due to thin power supply caused by planned and unplanned outages of several power plants. (MNS)

UNDERSTANDING MEDICARE PHYSICIAN PROVIDERS THE U.S. Congress enacted the participating provider program in 1984 to ser ve 2 purposes: 1) to assist Medicare patients i n ident i f y i ng a nd choosi ng physician providers who charge Medicare approved rates; and, 2) to encourage physician providers to accept these rates.

Tod ay, 9 6% of phy sic ia n s pr a c t ic i n g i n t he U. S . a r e participating providers in the Medicare program; approximately 4% are non-participating; and, less than 1% are opt-out (i.e., privately contracting) of Medicare.

Participating providers agree to “accept assignment” for all services provided to all Medicare patients. They agree to accept the Medicare fee schedule amount as payment in full for the service. Medicare patients do not have any higher cost sharing than Medicare’s standard coinsurance. Providers bill Medicare and any supplemental insurer (e.g. MediGap) directly, so a Medicare member is never responsible for Medicare’s portion of the charge.

Non-participating providers can choose whether or not to “accept assignment” or “balance bill” for each service for each Medicare member.

They charge higher fees than Medicare’s fee schedule amount, up to a specified maximum.

Medicare member’s cost sharing includes standard coinsurance PLUS the portion of

practice is deemed valid and legal.

If unsure, seek counsel before you pay anything.

Nowadays, it is not uncommon for Medicare members to receive “surprise bills” from providers (eit her physicians, hospita ls, labs, and others). This mostly happens when you seek medical service from an “out of network” physician provider; or, in rare instances, some unscrupulous and dishonest providers bill you for some ridiculous charges. the provider’s charge that exceeds Medicare’s fee schedule amount. Provider bills Medicare member for full charge and submits claim to Medicare. Medicare reimburses member for its portion of the charge.

Opt-out providers “privately contract” for all services with all Medicare patients. Provider sets own fees for Medicare members. Provider bills patient for the full charge; neither the patient nor the provider may seek reimbursement from Medicare for any service.

To which category of provider does your doctor belong?

If your physician provider is a participating provider, you should have no problem. But, if your physician is a non-participating (although there are only less than 4% of the total), you may be “balance billed” for the difference. This

DO NOT RUSH TO PAY THESE BILLS. Question and clarify. Seek a breakdown of the charges. Examine and verify each particular item. Consult your insurance plan customer service representative. Contest every item with discrepancy. If, after a thorough and careful analysis of the bill, it turns out you are truly responsible for the charges, talk and negotiate with the providers (either physicians, hospitals, labs, or others). Many times they agree to lower the total amount; or, agree to receive payments in installment.

There are states that have enacted laws that provide protection to the public from “surprise bills”. On the federal level, the U.S. Congress is now on the final leg in crafting legislation re: “surprise bills”.

If you need help, you may reach me at 323 535 7373 or, e-mail at: leo.balita@gmail.com.

Joleo “Leo” Monsalud, RICP@ holds CA life and health license # 0G55218 as well as Non-Resident licenses for Nevada and Michigan.

He helps Medicare members choose the right Medicare health plan for them. He studied for MBA and Law at the University of the Philippines. He used to work for United Laboratories, Inc. as vice-president in charge of a division as general manager.

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Dante leaves P268-M damage to infra in latest DPWH estimate

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Latest damage estimate of Storm Dante to infrastructures stood at nearly P269 million so far, a Department of Public Works and Highways' report indicated Thursday.

In an update posted on its Facebook page, the DPWH said that of as of 6 a.m.

Thursday, estimated damage to national roads and f lood-control structures was at P268.52M. DPWH Secretary Mark Villar said 270 equipment assets and 1,569 workers were deployed for the on-going clearing ISO 12647-7 Digital Control Strip 2009 activities.

100 60 100 70 100 70 30 100 60 In Region 7 a lone, partia l cost of da mage is at P106.2 m i l l ion f rom P95M da maged roads, a nd P11.2M from f lood-control structures; while 100 60 100 100 70 70 30 30 100 100 60 100 100 70 70 in100 Region 12, partial damage estimate hit P162.32M from f lood-control structures.

Also, Villar said DPWH is still clearing three impassable national road sections in the provinces of Cebu, Eastern A

B

A B E T T E R

Samar, and Agusan del Sur. In Cebu, affected section is the Dalaguete-Mantalongon-Badian Road, in Brgy. Ablayan, Dalaguete, Cebu which is still f looded. DPWH has installed warning signs and will conduct clearing operation once the water has subsided.

DPW H Quick Response Team also closed the Wright-Taft-Borongan Road, K0861+(-439) - K0890+176, Camp.5 Bndr y-Jct. Taft at Brg y. Binaloan, Taft, Eastern Samar for possible occurrence of landslide.

30 100 60 40 100 40 100 100 70 30 100 40 Butuan City-Talacogon-Loreto-Veruela-Sta. Josefa Road is also impassable, specifically the Adgawan Bridge in La Paz, Agusan del Sur due to em100 100 collapse 30 30 100 100 60 soil 70 70 30 30 on100 40 100 40 ap40 100 banked bridge proach.

Motorists may use the parallel bridge as an alternative route while the bridge is still being repaired, the DPWH said.

T:9.75" (MNS) 3%

TOM O RROW

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Senate to hold inquiry on rotational brownouts in Luzon MANILA (Mabuhay) — Senator areas in Luzon experienced roSherwin Gatchalian has filed tational brownouts on May 31 a resolution seeking for an in- and June 1 due to red alerts. quiry on the rotational brown“Furthermore, it is crucial for outs in Luzon. the DOE to provide long-term Gatchalian, chair of the Sen- solutions to this problem and ate energy committee, stated a specific timeline for these the need to discuss the electric- plans, to include the hastening ity supply in Luzon during the of the build out of new power Senate session on Wednesday. plants, aggressively utilizing “This is a critical situation energy efficiency and conservaand I would like to request the tion, and contracting sufficient Department of Energy to get all ancillary reserves,” he said. hands on deck especially in the “All these things are necesnext coming days because from sary to protect the public and the forecast that I am seeing, the economy from losses due to there will be problem of load power outages and the resulting dropping in the next eight high prices of electricity due to days,” he said. limited power supply,” the lawThe lawmaker noted that maker added.

339,000 households in 90 baGatchalian said it is “high rangays in 16 local government time” to provide long-term units have experienced power solutions in the “recurring” outages on June 1. problem of electricity supply He also cited the power in- shortage which the country terruption experienced in two encountered for the past five vaccination sites in Valenzuela years.

City.

Recent ly, Gatcha lia n exIn filing Senate Resolution pressed dismay over the ro740, the lawmaker has reiter- tational brownouts in Luzon, ated the DOE’s responsibility warning that COVID-19 vacin ensuring the quality, relia- cines are at risk of being spoiled. bility, security, and affordability Apart from Gatchalian, Senaof electric power supply in the tor Manny Pacquiao also raised country. the issue of electricity supply in Gatchalian said it is crucial to a privilege speech on Wednes40 70 DOE 40 40 40accountable 40 3its 10 25 50DOE75chief90Alfonso 100 40 70 70 40 40 70 40 70 40 over hold day, hitting failure to address power supply Cusi for allegedly prioritizing shortages since 2016. politics before his duties as EnThe Senate energ y panel ergy secretary. chairman reiterated0 0that the At least three senators per10 40 40 20 70 70 70 70 40 70 40 40 00 3.1 2.2 2.2 10.2 7.4 7.4 25 19 19 50 40 40 75 66 66 100 100 100 80 70 70 100 DOE officials have given them sonally experienced power assurance in a hearing held last outages in their own homes.

April 27 that there is no high risk This forced them to go offline of supply shortage during the during the Senate session last summer season. However, some Tuesday. (MNS)

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BI backs plan to establish ‘green lane’ for vaccinated foreigners MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is supporting the proposal to allow fully vaccinated foreign nationals to enter the country as part of efforts to revive the country’s ailing tourism industry and reopen the country’s borders.

In a statement, Commissioner Jaime Morente said they agree with the setting up of a “green lane” for vaccinated aliens in the different ports to pave the way for the reopening of tourist destinations to leisure travelers if the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Dis-

eases (IATF) deems it viable.

“If approved by the IATF, we in the Bureau support this initiative by the Department of Tourism (DOT) as it will not only resuscitate our tourism industry. It will also generate employment for millions of Filipinos who lost their jobs due to the pandemic,” he said.

He added that aside from the tourism and travel industry, opening the country’s borders to international leisure travelers will also hasten the revival of the commercial aviation and shipping industries whose businesses suffered a beat-

ing from the pandemic.

“Once these ‘green lanes’ are set up, operations in our international airports and seaports hopefully will begin to return to normal,” Morente said.

Earlier, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo Puyat asked the IATF to approve the setting of the “green lanes” to facilitate the re-employment of tourism workers and revive the tourism industry under safe conditions.

She said the scheme would allow vaccinated foreign travelers to visit the country for leisure as quarantine

rules are being relaxed while the government undertakes a massive vaccination rollout for its citizens nationwide.

The DOT chief added that the Philippines should keep pace with its neighbors and the rest of the world in slowly reopening the country’s tourist destinations.

The BI is part of the small working group, headed by the DOT and Department of Foreign Affairs, which was formed

to study the feasibility of implementing the “green lane” scheme and formulate related health protocols.

Other members of the group are the Bureau of Quarantine, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Transportation, Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and Department of Trade and Industry. (MNS)

Pandemic halts deployment of Pinoy health workers to Japan MANILA (Mabuhay) — Deployment of Filipino health workers to Japan has been temporarily suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Philippine Ambassador to Japan Jose Laurel V said Thursday.

"There is a travel ban [covering those coming from outside Japan], and the only ones exempted are those from the diplomatic and government service," Laurel said during the Laging Handa briefing.

Pressed on the current situation of the deployment of Filipino health workers to Japan, he said, "Travels are limited to essentials, and because of the pandemic, travelling [here] is not allowed."

Laurel recalled that even members of the diplomatic corps cannot approach Philippine delegates participating in the Tokyo Olympic Games scheduled from July to August.

"The Olympic Games is a go, and we have at least 11 delegates. We are doing everything we can to give them a COVID-19 vaccine and protection," he said.

"But there are very strict. Normal people cannot easily get in touch with the athletes without securing permission, and that is why I will only watch on television," he added.

A number of prefectures in Japan have been under state of emergency, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, due to a surge in COVID-19 cases.

Laurel, however, said Filipinos there are largely safe with 135 recoveries, two active cases and one death. (MNS)

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De Lima condemns cop’s ‘appalling and unacceptable’ killing of woman MANILA (Mabuhay) — Senator Leila de Lima on Wednesday denounced the "appalling and unacceptable" murder of Lilybeth Valdez by Police Master Sergeant Hensie Zinampan, a policeman with the Quezon City Police District.

In a statement, the opposition senator said the brutal killing must remind President Rodrigo Duterte that his "blatant encouragement of killings" to authorities puts Filipinos' lives in danger.

“This is murder in one of its worst forms, done by no less than someone who is expected to enforce the law and protect the Filipinos. The policeman even has the nerve to deny the killing of a woman who can't fight back, when his gruesome crime is clearly shown in the video," said De Lima, in mixed Filipino and English.

"How many innocent people will

be killed before Duterte stops tolerating and encouraging killings and violence, which gives reinforces murderers and abusive cops," she added.

De Lima, likewise, urged families of drug war victims to continue demanding justice for all the human rights abuses in the country.

“As we deplore the killing of Lilybeth and all the other victims of extrajudicial killings (EJKs) under this murderous Duterte regime, we must stand up and protect human rights and dignity in our nation, now more than ever,” the staunch critic of Duterte said.

According to the victim's family, Valdez was just passing by to purchase an item at the store when an intoxicated Zinampan approached her, pulled her hair and shot her at the back.

Philippine National Police chief Police General Guillermo Eleazar

Police Master Sergeant Hensie Zinampan is arrested after shooting his neighbor Lilybeth Valdez to death ordered the Quezon City Police District to file administrative complaints against the rogue cop, and also said he will be charged with murder.

The victim's daughter meanwhile, has cried out for justice and said she hopes the suspect will be punished for the crime. (MNS)

Sotto says NPC waiting Drilon: Supreme Court has ruled that drug war records do not have for his decision on national security implications Eleksyon 2022 plans MANILA (Mabuhay) — The National People’s Coalition (NPC) is still waiting for Senate President Vicente Sotto III’s decision on his possible bid for a higher position in next year's elections.

"Most of my partymates are waiting for me to decide on my political career,” Sotto said in a text message shared to reporters when asked on how the NPC is preparing for the 2022 polls.

The Senate chief also said that Senator Panfilo Lacson is still “weighing options” when he was asked if there are talks on their possible tandem in the 2022 elections.

SENATE PRESIDENT VICENTE SOTTO III

“He is weighing his options.

We might do some consultations with friends and partymates during the break,” Sotto said.

Sotto has admitted that he is considering running for vice president in the 2022 national and local elections.

He said he may announce his decision after President Rodrigo Duterte delivers his last State of the Nation Address (SONA) in July.

Sotto ranked third among preferred vice presidential bets for the 2022 polls, according to the Pulse Asia survey released in December 2020. He was behind Manila Mayor Isko Moreno and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, the President's daughter.

Sotto has also said he would support Lacson if he decides to run for president in 2022.

Sotto will be ending his two consecutive terms in the Senate in 2022. This means he can either run for a local or a higher position in the upcoming elections as the Constitution only allows a senator to sit for two consecutive terms.

Meanwhile, Lacson is still eligible to run for another term in the Senate.

(MNS)

SENATE MINORITY LEADER FRANKLIN M. DRILON MANILA (Mabuhay) — Senate Minority Leader Franklin M. Drilon said that the records of the bloody anti-drug war campaign do not have national security implications and that the Phi lippine Nat iona l Police must follow the Supreme Court ruling in Almora et al. and Dano et al. v. the PNP in 2018.

"In the words of the Supreme Court, drug war records 'do not obviously involve state secrets affecting national security' for the information and documents relate to routine police operations involving violations of laws against the sale or use of illegal drugs," Drilon said in a statement on Wednesday.

"That is, plain and simple, a police blotter.

Ito po ay public record at may karapatan ang taumbayan na malaman ang katotohanan," he added.

"I do not think that

by any stretch of imagination police records would involve national security," he stressed.

Drilon said the PNP must follow the rule of law.

"Th PNP is walking on a thin line between following the high court's order or keeping the records under wraps.

But they must abide by the court ruling," Drilon said.

"Wala naman po tayong tinatago, hindi po ba?" he asked.

In 2018, the Supreme Cour t, in t wo cases against the Philippine National Police represented by then former PNP Director General and now Senator Ronald Dela Rosa (G.R. No. 234359 and G.R. No. 234484), denied t he Office of Solicitor General's defense that drug war records could implicate national security in a bid to stop the sharing of the police records.

The former justice secretary said that in accordance with the Supreme Court decision, drug war records "do not involve rebellion, invasion, terrorism, espionage, infringement of our sovereignty or sovereign rights by foreign powers, or any military, diplomatic or state secret involving national security."

"To claim that it involves national security is unfounded. By any stretch of imagination, I could not think how would a single poorest of the poor Filipino, who was killed in an anti-narcotic operation, have planned to overthrow the government?"

Drilon said.

The government's anti-drug war campaign ha s lef t t hou s a nd s of alleged drug users dead du r i ng pol ice operations, children orphaned and wives widowed in the past five years, he noted.

"How the likes of Kian delos Santos and many young victims of the anti-drug campaign could have threatened our national security?" he added.

Drilon said that during his stint at the justice department, he had never seen police records that have national security implications.

"W hat we wa nt to find out is what, where, when, and under what circumstances these thousands of people were killed. The police records will reveal only that information," he added. (MNS)

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Business firms urged to acquire safety seal owners to seek for the safety certification to help increase public confidence,” Bello added.

He said obtaining the safety seal is free of charge.

The DOLE will issue the certification for establishments in the manufacturing, construction, utilities, information and communication, and warehousing industries.

Other designated issuing authorities are the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Tourism, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Phil-

ippine National Police, and the local government units.

To ensure strict and continual compliance to health protocols, the certification will only be valid for six months from the date of its issuance—except for tourism establishments, which certifications are valid for a year—and has to be renewed a month before expiration.

Establishments who wish to apply for the safety seal certification may inquire via the DOLE hotline 1349.

(MNS)

Philippine debt balloons to nearly P11T as of end-April 2021 — Treasury MANILA (Mabuhay) — Business establishments are urged to apply for a safety certification to confirm their compliance with the government’s minimum public health standards.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said Wednesday private companies bearing the safety seal assure that they are practicing the minimum health protocols.

This includes social distancing and the use of a contact-tracing application, particularly the StaySafe.PH application, among others.

StaySafe.PH is the country’s official health condition reporting, contact tracing, and social distancing system authorized by the Interagency Task Force on Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases and the National Task Force Against Covid-19.

“With the safety seal certification program in place, we are assuring the public, especially our workers, that they are safe and protected outside their homes, even if we allow our economy to fully reopen,” Bello said in a statement.

“While the application is voluntary, I highly encourage our private business

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The national government’s outstanding debt widened to a new record-high of nearly P11 trillion as of end-April 2021, data released by the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) showed Thursday.

The government’s running debt as of end-April stood at P10.991 trillion, 2% higher compared to endMarch’s level of P10.774 trillion.

The Treasury attributed the debt increase to “net availment of both local and external financing.”

Of the total outstanding debt stock, 71.1% were sourced locally and 28.9% were sourced externally.

“The latest rise in the national government debt largely reflects the increase in foreign borrowings by the national government recently, such as the EUR2.1 billion ($2.5 billion) euro-denominated bond sale and the JPY55 billion ($505 million) Samurai bond sale,” Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said.

The increase in the national government’s outstanding debt is also

brought about by “the continued budget deficits on a monthly basis, though narrower recently, but nevertheless still reflected the need for more government borrowings/debt to finance the said budget deficits,” according to Ricafort.

In April, the national government’s fiscal balance yielded a narrower deficit of P44.4 billion on the back of increase in tax collection during the period.

“The need to finance the purchase of more COVID-19 vaccines would also lead to some pick up in government borrowings/debt; as the commercial purchases for COVID-19 vaccines would be recurring in nature in the foreseeable future,” Ricafort said.

In particular, domestic debt totaled P7.812 trillion, 0.9% higher than end-March’s P7.744 trillion “primarily due to the net issuance of government securities.”

Foreig n debt , me a nw h i le, amounted to P3.180 trillion, up 4.9% from P3.03 trillion as of endMarch.

“For April, the increment to external debt was due to the net availment of foreign loans amounting to P163.01 billion including P146.16 billion from the issuance of Global Bonds,” the BTr said.

“Further adjustments include the impact of third-currency appreciation against the US dollar which added P10.91 billion while local-currency appreciation trimmed P24.21 billion,” it added, noting that the peso appreciated against the US dollar from P48.44 as of endMarch to P48.156 as of end-April.

As of the government ramped up its borrowing efforts to boost its war-chest to address the COVID-19 pandemic since last year, the cost of liabilities relative to the size of the economy or debt-to-gross domestic product ratio (GDP) climbed to 60.4%, slightly higher than the international threshold of 60% considered as “manageable” level.

A lower debt-to-GDP ratio is generally seen as favorable, as it indicates that the country is able to repay its debts. (MNS)

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Some vaccinated Pinoys possibly becoming lax on health protocols — OCTA MANILA (Mabuhay) — Some Filipinos, who were already vaccinated, are becoming lax on following COVID-19 safety protocols, which is still being required with more than a year into lockdown, OCTA Research Fellow Dr. Guido David said Wednesday.

David said this after he was asked if Filipinos are being "overconfident" after getting vaccinated as virus infections keep on "fluctuating" amid strict community quarantine measures.

"Actually, kasama yan sa mga dahilan, may mga nagkakaroon ng confidence na feeling superman na and then connected there nagiging lax na rin tayo ng kaunti," said David.

On those who opt not to get a second dose of vaccine, David reminded that there is no guarantee that getting the first dose of the drug will fully protect them from the virus. "'Wag naman nila isipin na kapag naka first dose na okay na sila or protektado na. Hindi. Mababa pa protection.

Nagrarange from 3 percent to 30 percent ang protection with the first dose. Baka may possibility na makakuha pa ng severe (infection)," David said, amid reports of those who failed to return for second dose of vaccines.

"Kapag nagpabakuna tayo, kunin na natin ang second dose (Once we get vaccinated, let's remember to get the second dose.)," added David.

Meanwhile, David also noted that increased mobility also cause a risk in transmission in communities.

"Of course, nagbubukas tayo ng ekonomiya slowly pero ginagawa naman natin slowly. Pero kahit sa pag-increase ng mobility habang dumadami mga tao sa labas mas

tumataas ang risk ng kahawaaan," he said.

(We are slowly reopening the economy but with the increase in mobility, with more people going outside, the risk of transmission is high.)

Likewise, David reminded that lockdowns are not the only solution for decreasing COVID-19 cases but also aggressive contact tracing.

Earlier, the OCTA Research Team noted an increase in reproduction number in the National Capital Region from 0.57 to 0.68.

To recall, Metro Manila reverted to general community quarantine from May 15 to May 31. The national government then extended the classification over NCR until June 15.

As of Wednesday, Philippines registered 1,240,716 total virus infections with 52,132 active cases, 21,158 deaths and 1,167,426 recoveries. (MNS)

Duque: Not yet time to drop face shields due to low COVID-19 vaccine coverage

M ANIL A (Mabuhay) — Health Secretary Francisco Duque III on Thursday said the time is not yet right to lift the policy requiring the wearing of face shields in public areas, noting the Philippines’ low COVID-19 vaccine coverage so far.

This was after Manila Mayor Isko Moreno renewed appeals for the national government to stop requiring the use of face shields in public, saying it was high time to adjust pandemic policies.

“Okay [ang] mungkahi ni Mayor Isko kung malaki na vaccination coverage na-

tin (Mayor Isko’s proposal would be okay if we had a wide vaccination coverage),” Duque said.

“H i nd i p a p w e den g tanggalin ang face shield policy (We can’t drop the face shield policy) for now when our two-dose vaccination coverage is a little over 2% due to still inadequate vaccine supply,” he added.

The Philippines has only vaccinated over 3.9 million people as of May 30, still far from the government’s target of inoculating 58 million individuals in COVID-19 hotspots by

HEALTH SECRETARY FRANCISCO DUQUE III

November.

The inter-agency COVID-19 task force made the use of face shields mandatory only in December last year.

Duque has repeatedly stressed that the use of face shields is backed by science, citing a study published in leading international medical journal The Lancet.

“There are many scientific studies showing that face shields in combination with face masks and more than 1-meter social distancing provide a greater than 95% protection,” he

said.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, meanwhile, said the “evaluation of face shields is ongoing, but effectiveness is unknown at this time.”

Both local and international experts have also advised against the use of face shields as a substitute for face masks, with one US study showing that shields alone cannot prevent the spread of the virus. (MNS)

Saturday-Friday Saturday-Friday || June June 55 -- 11, 11, 2021 2021

Covid-19 vax ‘imbalance’ must be corrected —Duterte MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has renewed his call for universal access to safe and effective Covid-19 vaccines, stressing that vaccine “imbalance” will have consequences.

Duterte made this pitch during the Gavi COVAX Advance Market Commitment (AMC) Summit co-hosted by Japan Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide and GAVI Chair of the Board Jose Manuel Barroso on Wednesday, according to a press statement from the Office of the President.

In his speech, he emphasized the current “glaring imbalance” in vaccine distribution with more than 82 percent of the global supply going to developed countries.

“This imbalance must be corrected – or there will be no real and inclusive global recovery to speak of,” Duterte said.

Duterte also reiterated his earlier pledge to donate USD1 million as a contribution to the World Health Organization (WHO)-led COVAX initiative to aid in accelerating global vaccination coverage.

He first mentioned his desire to contribute USD1 million to the COVAX Facility in a pre-recorded public address on Monday.

“It is our moral responsibility to help each other and face this crisis with greater solidarity and urgency. While modest, our contribution demonstrates our firm commitment to this global fight against Covid-19,” he added.

Duterte said the Philippines, as both donor and recipient country, counts on the COVAX initiative to bring much-needed vaccines to developing countries.

He also thanked the GAVI Alliance and encouraged more countries to also contribute.

The Summit was held with the aim to fill the 1.8 billion gap of the COVAX AMC to provide Covid-19 vaccine doses for lower-income economies.

Securing 1.8 billion doses would enable the AMC to protect nearly 30 percent of the population in all AMC countries or roughly half the entire adult population.

Currently, the AMC has funds in place to protect approximately 20 percent of populations, equivalent to all health and social care workers, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions. (MNS)

Filipinos can still get 2nd dose of COVID-19 jab even after missing up to 2 weeks MANILA (Mabuhay) — Filipinos may still get their second dose of COVID-19 vaccine even after missing their schedule by one or two weeks, an epidemiology and data analytics expert working with government said Thursday.

Some 1 out of 2.1 million vaccinees missed their second dose after being expected to receive the shot after 8 weeks, according to Dr. John Wong, founder of health research institution EpiMetrics Inc. "Okay lang naman basta ang importante bumalik sila para sa second dose. Without the second dose kulang ang protection nila.

Kahit na you miss by 1 week or 2 weeks, basta bumalik ka," he said.

Individuals missed their second dose appointment likely due to fear of side effects, conflict of schedule, or lack of supply, he added.

Government aims to inoculate 500,000 Filipinos daily in Metro manila and 8 other key economic hubs to achieve "population protection" by November 27, vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez earlier said.

Some 1.2 million Filipinos are fully-vaccinated against COVID-19 while government has administered more than 5.18 million jabs. (MNS)

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Duterte infomercial invites Filipinos to get vaccinated MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo has appeared in a government infomercial to invite Filipinos to get vaccinated against Covid-19, stressing that it is key to beating the ongoing health crisis.

“I invite all our kababayans to be vaccinated at the earliest possible opportunity because this is the most, if not the only way, effective way to defeat Covid-19 pandemic,” Duterte said in a nearly two-minute commercial.

He reminded Filipinos to get vaccinated for themselves as well as their loved ones.

“Let us all keep in mind that the vaccine will not only protect you from the virus, it will also protect your loved ones, especially the sick and elderly,” he added.

Citing the Department of Health’s (DOH) vaccination campaign, Duterte said people’s participation is crucial to safely reopen the economy.

“Your participation in the “Resbakuna: Kasangga ng BIDA” campaign is therefore key if we are to reopen our economy and reclaim our normal lives,” he said.

He also assured that the national government will continue to ensure the health and safety of Filipinos amid the prevailing pandemic.

“To the Filipino people, let me assure you that the government will continue to do its best to protect you until we overcome this health crisis together. Let us heal as one nation.

Kapwa Pilipino, magpabakuna na

po tayo (My fellow Filipino, let us get vaccinated),” he added.

In a pre-recorded public address on Monday, Duterte urged local government units (LGUs) to make use of technology to reduce queue time among recipients of Covid-19 vaccines.

“Making them queue for an hour or longer exposes them to other risks.

Please use technology and advanced approaches to make sure the entire process is more effective,” he said.

He suggested that LGU officials distribute cards with numbers and their assigned time to cut long lines.

Duterte appealed to speed up the vaccination rollout to avoid people from gathering in one area and prevent wastage due to spoilage.

He also directed vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. to ensure equitable distribution of Covid-19 vaccines across the country.

The country now has four brands of Covid-19 vaccines in its inventory namely Sinovac’s CoronaVac (China), AstraZeneca (UK), Sputnik V (Russia), and Pfizer (US).

More than 5 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine have been administered since the Philippines launched its vaccination drive on March 1.

The Philippines is aiming to achieve “population protection” against Covid-19 by inoculating 50 to 60 percent of the population with concentration in Metro Manila, two other cities, and six provinces. (MNS)

COVID-19 reproduction number in NCR up to 0.68 — OCTA M A NIL A (Mabu hay) — The COV ID-19 reproduction number in the National Capital Region has increased to 0.68 from 0.57 over the past week, according to OCTA Research's bulletin covering May 26 to June 1, 2021, released on Wednesday.

T he reproduc t ion number refers to the number of people that each COVID-19 case can infect. The World Health Organization’s benchmark for the positivity rate is 5% or lower.

In its bulletin, OCTA also reported that the seven-day average of new COVID-19 cases in Metro Manila had an 8% growth rate to 1,135.

While this is considered as a “slight” increase, OCTA said this is the first time that there is a rise in growth rate since the peak of the surge.

The NCR is still under the moderate risk as the research g r oup r e corded 8.22 per 100,000 average daily attack rate (ADAR).

Meanwhi le, t he healthcare utilization rate in the region was at 41% while

occupancy rate was at 53%. OCTA said these rates are still within the safe level threshold of 60%.

On the other hand, the reproduction number in the entire Philippines increased to 1.09.

OCTA also observed an increase of 37% in the seven-day period with 6,699 cases.

“Note that the previous week’s average of 4,898 is the lowest daily average since the peak of the surge in April,” OCTA said in its report.

“The cause for this reversal in the downward trend is that the NCR Plus did not see a decrease in cases the past week that would counter the upward trends seen in many provinces and [local government units] outside the NCR Plus bubble,” it added.

The researchers also noted the “significant increases” in COVID-19

cases in Antipolo City in Rizal and Santa Rosa in Laguna. Both provinces are part of the NCR Plus bubble that is currently under modified general community quarantine.

OCTA also tagged the following provinces outside the NCR Plus Bubble as “areas of concern”: Davao City, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo City, Tuguegarao, General Santos, Butuan, Batangas City and Tarlac City.

All of these provinces had significant upward trends over the past week, OCTA said.

Moreover, the health care utilization rate (HCUR) in Iloilo City (88%) and Tuguegarao (91%) were above the critical level of 85% The HCUR in Cagayan de Oro (75%), Zamboanga City (73%), Butuan (81%) and Tarlac City (77%) were also tagged

by OCTA as “high” with rates above 70%. (MNS)

In this photo released May 3, 2021, President Rodrigo Duterte receives Sinopharm's COVID-19 vaccine administered by Health Secretary Francisco Duque.

(Sen. Bong Go/FB Page)

Philippines seeks 3M to 5M share from US’ 80M COVID-19 vaccine surplus — Galvez (Mabuhay) — The Philippines is seeking to get 3 million to 5 million COV ID-19 vacci nes from the United States’ 80 m i l l ion su r plus, vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said Wednesday.

“Kasi alam naman natin na kailangan din ng ibang bansa ang vaccines at nakita natin sa ASEAN region tayo ay pangalawa sa pinakamataas na nagba-vaccinate. Ang ano namin is kung mabigyan po tayo ng 3 to 5 million, maganda na po ‘yon,” Galvez said.

He said the US might give their surplus vaccines to the COVAX Facility and the organiza-

tion will be in charge for its distribution.

Galvez further d i s c lo s e d t h at t he Phi lippines specif ically requested for AstraZeneca COVID-19 brand as this was not used in the US vaccination program.

“We requested for almost 3 million AstraZeneca and other vaccines, considering that, we know AstraZeneca will not be used in the US, but they have stocks,” he said.

Apa r t f rom Ast raZeneca, Ga lvez said that he signed a document which stated that the US might also give Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine.

He reiterated that the Philippines is among the “first priority” that will receive the COVID-19 surplus from US. Last week, Philippine Ambassador to Washington Jose Manuel Romualdez said the Philippines will be among the countries that will receive surplus Moderna and AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine doses from the US. Romualdez said the shipment may arrive as early as June.

He said the Philippines are also expecting vaccines from Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnsons & Johnsons either in July or August. (MNS)

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Santacruzan in the time of pandemic

F

lores de Mayo has been one of the most anticipated festivals in the Philippines, culminated with a night of grandeur called the Santacruzan every end of May to commemorate Queen Helena's search for the Holy Cross.

Over time, the occasion has evolved into a moving exhibit of Philippine artistry and craftsmanship, with the town belles parading in long gowns representing the many titles of the Blessed Mother and significant Biblical characters.

While the pandemic halted festival activities across the country, the event carried on, albeit virtually -- Masses were celebrated online and in some instances (with only the sagalas present), processions in a controlled setting were held.

The first Santacruzan in the Philippines was held in Malolos, Bulacan. But the original procession goes way back to 326 AD when St. Helena, the queen mother of Emperor Constantine, traveled to the Holy Land in search of the True Cross and the “Holy Sepulcher” or the location of Christ's crucifixion.

From this pilgrimage, St. Helena found three crosses. It was said that the Holy Cross was determined when her sick servant who touched the wood was miraculously healed.

Alongside the Santacruzan, the Filipino faithful also dedicate the entire month of May to Virgin Mary.

In an online Santacruzan organized by the Diocesan

Shrine of the Holy Face of Jesus of Manoppello on Monday night, Rev. Fr. Richard Lagos explained the meaning behind these events -- the Filipino Catholics' undying faith in God. "Napakahalaga ng krus sa ating mga Kristiyano kaya nga Santacruzan sapagkat ang krus ay simbolo ng pananampalataya nating mga Kristiyano. Hindi ito simbolo ng kaparusahan, ng kayabangan, o ng kamatayan, hindi ito simbolo ng kalupitan ng mga tao. Para sa ating mga Katoliko, ang krus ay simbolo ng dakilang pag-ibig ng Diyos (The Holy Cross is important to Christians because this symbolizes our faith. This is not a symbol of punishment, arrogance, nor death. It is not a symbol of cruelty. For us Catholics, it is the symbol of Christ's love)," he said.

"Si Maria at ang krus ay hindi mapaghihiwalay dahil tinanggap ni Maria sa kanyang sinapupunan ang anak ng Diyos, si Hesus. Ito ay ekspresyon ng ating pananampalatayang Kristiyano -- pananampalataya na tayo ay minamahal ng Diyos (Mother Mary and the cross cannot be separated because Mary accepted and conceived the son of God, Jesus Christ.

This is the expression of our Christian faith -- a faith in God that he loves us)," he added.

Traditionally, a Santacruzan features numerous characters from the Bible with the old Methuselah leading the procession.

According to the book of Religious Beliefs and Practices in

LIGHTHOUSE... from Page 5 Esther Salas served as President of the Hispanic Bar Association of New Jersey from 2001 to 2002., President of the Hispanic Bar Foundation of New Jersey, member of the Governor's Hispanic Advisory Committee for Policy Development, the Superior Court Committee on Minority Concerns and the superior Court Committee on Women' in the Courts.

On 2006, Esther Salas was selected among a group of 99 applicants as US Magistrate Judge for the district of New Jersey becoming the first Latina in that position, where she served for five years. On August 31, 2010, both US Senators Frank Lautenberg and Robert Menendez announced they would recommend to President Barack Obama that Salas be nominated as federal district judge on the same court. Obama nominated her on December 1, 2010 to a seat vacated by Katharine Sweeney Hayden, who assumed senior status on May 4, 2010.

Judge Salas was unanimously rated as "well qualified," for the judgeship by the American Bar Association's Standing Committee on the Federal Judiciary, which rates the qualifications of federal judicial nominees.

Salas was given the highest rating by the committee. Though Obama's nomination expired without the Senate action at the end of the 111th Congress, Obama renominated her on January 5, 2011, at the beginning of 112th Congress and Senate confirmed her by voice vote on June 14, 2011and she received her commission the same day, making her the first Latina om the District Court of New Jersey.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that the US District Court for the District of New Jersey has a busy docket, and according to a 2018 profile, Judge Salas has presided over as many as 485 civil matters and 50 criminal cases at any given time.

In her final words during the televised interview, she said that she remains strong and resilient because she knows that her son Daniel looks down on her and guides her on her judicial decisions. Therefore, Bill S-2797 will be known as "Daniel's Law," in his honor.

STEM... from Page 4 Highest and lowest earners: STEM-educated workers in computer occupations had the highest median annual earnings among STEM occupations at $105,300.

Engineers were a close second, earning a median $102,200 a year.

Life scientists earned the least, at $66,540 a year.

From College to Jobs The interactive data visualization below illustrates the dynamic relationship between college major and jobs, with a special focus on STEM workers.

Using occupation data from the American Community Survey, details include bachelor’s degree major and occupation group for STEM, STEM-related and non-STEM workers by demographic characteristics: sex, race and Hispanic origin and nativity.

Jennifer Cheeseman Day is a demographer in the Census Bureau’s Communication Directorate.

Anthony Martinez is a survey statistician in the Social, Economic and Housing Statistics Division.

the Philippines by Teodora Battad, et al., some sagalas or the women joining the parade personify other Biblical characters like Reyna Shaba, Reyna Esther, Maria Magdalena, Reyna Fe, Reyna Esperanza, Reyna Caridad and the Samaritan whom Christ spoke to near the well.

Others characterize the various titles of Mary: Reyna de las Virgines, Rosa Mistica, Reyna Paz, Reyna de las Propetas, Reyna del Cielo, Reyna

de las Estrellas, Reyna de las Rosas, Reyna Luna and Reyna de las Flores.

Eventually, some figures were added such as Banderada, wearing the Philippine flag, Reyna Mora, Reyna Justicia, Abogada and Reyna Sentenciada.

At the end of the procession, Reyna Elena holds a cross alongside her son Constantino, followed by the image of the Virgin Mary. (PNA)

GARCETTI... from Page 1 “This moment demands nothing less than our most courageous efforts to lift up those in need, and this budget charts a course to meeting our highest ambitions, restoring what we’ve lost, and building on what makes Los Angeles the best city in the world.”

The signed budget features the City’s largest-ever investment to confront the homelessness crisis at $791 million, which more than doubles its current spending. The breakdown includes: $362 million to support 89 projects and over 5,600 total housing units through Proposition HHH; Nearly $200 million for the development of affordable housing, homeless prevention, eviction defense, and other homeless services; $58 million for 9 additional CARE+ teams — which now totals one per each Council District; An expansion of services at A Bridge Home and interim housing sites;11 new regional storage facilities; $43 million for Project Roomkey.

All in, with carryover state and federal funding from last year included, the City is projected to spend $955 million to confront the homelessness crisis.

The 2021-22 budget is strengthened by $639 million in spending from the American Rescue Plan. Mayor Garcetti advocated aggressively for this funding over the past year to lift up Angelenos hit hardest by the pandemic, and this spending blueprint puts those dollars to work with $151 million going to equity and justice programs; $281 million for homeless services; $244 million to restore vital services; and $64 million for COVID response and recovery.

“This budget is accountable for City Services, it’s reflective of our fiscal duties, and it’s responsive to the systemic inequities and challenges that held back too many neighborhoods in our City for generations,” said Council President Nury Martinez.

“It lays the groundwork for ongoing efforts to address these, because we are not naive, we aren’t going to change historic inequities with one step or with one budget, but with this budget we take a step forward towards that.”

“Approved in the wake of the worst fiscal crisis in City history, the 2021-22 budget is a monumental step forward,” said Councilmember Paul Krekorian, chair of the Budget and Finance Committee.

“It enhances park services to levels not seen for over a decade, allocates a record amount of funds to address homelessness in our neighborhoods, provides an array of environmental protections, expands the senior meal program, offers millions to businesses coming out of the pandemic, and attacks the problem of economic inequality across communities. During my tenure as Budget and Finance Chair, there has never been a time when

the City Council, Council President, and Mayor worked more collaboratively on this process.”

Other key components of the budget include: $62 million for the Small Business and Restaurant Recovery Fund, L.A. Al Fresco, and steps to help revitalize the tourism and hospitality industries; $40 million in the City’s COVID Emergency Fund to expand the City’s Mobile Outreach for Vaccine Equity (MOVE) program; $33 million to grow the City’s Gang Reduction and Youth Development program; $30 million for the expansion of solar energy generation and EV charging stations; $29 million for America’s largest guaranteed basic income pilot to date; $18.7 million to fund new programs founded on a Therapeutic and Unarmed Response for Neighborhoods (TURN) and community-based approach to reimagining public safety; $15 million for digital inclusion and universal broadband programs; $8.7 million to employ high-barrier young adults to clean and beautify our communities, as well as $3.5 million to train and pay 1,000 low-income high school students to home-tutor young siblings who have struggled with distance learning; $10 million to the REPAIR Innovation Fund to support racial justice, community intervention, and reconciliation work; $3 million to support the Social Equity Program within the City’s Department of Cannabis Regulation and promote equitable ownership and employment within the cannabis industry.

Cumulative reserves of 8.6% “Mayor Garcetti's commitment to putting a lens of racial equity on unprecedented investments in alternatives to policing, guaranteed basic income, and ending the homelessness crisis shows how strong leadership can begin to transform systems and bring more voices into the conversation about America’s future,” said Aqeela Sherrills, Executive Director of the Community Based Public Safety Association.

“To put it simply, this budget is bold and visionary.”

“Today's exciting approval of the next L.A. City budget by the Mayor of L.A. reflects the community's call for bold and substantial reinvestment in our highest-need families, in women and in our young people as we begin to work toward addressing the seismic inequities and systemic inequalities laid bare by the pandemic,” said Maria Brenes, Executive Director of InnerCity Struggle and a member of the Making LA Whole coalition.

“I look forward to working with City leaders, including the Mayor and Council President, to ensure an equitable recovery for Los Angeles, especially for the most impacted communities.

Thank you, Mayor, for your leadership.”

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PRAYER TO BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail). O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, of the Son of God, PRAYER TOBlessed SAINTMother THERESE Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity.

O Starraised of the Sea, O Glorious St. Therese, whom Almighty God has up tohelp aid me show herein you are my Mother.

O Holy Mary, Mother of andand inspire theme human family, I implore your Miraculous Intercession.

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There Miracles... of Modern Times.’

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Andi Eigenmann is in no rush to get married MANILA (Mabuhay) — Andi Eigenmann said she and Philmar Alipayo aren't focusing on their wedding day yet, given the pandemic.

On her latest vlog where Andi shared updates about life on the island, the Siargao transplant said they are not rushing their big day.

"Of course hindi kami nagamadali sa wedding kasi alam namin na with the pandemic and all, siyempre gusto ko makarating naman dito yung family ko and na maging safe na ang lahat as much as possible. Hindi kami nagfo-focus dun," Andi said in the video.

In fact, they found something more important to focus their energy on.

According to Andi, they've found the perfect spot to build their "happy island dream house."

Andi clarified one they are currently living in is their "negosyo house," which of course they prioritized.

Andi and Philmar Alipayo got engaged last December, a month before they welcomed their second child together, Baby Koa. They have another daughter named Lilo.

Meanwhile, Ellie is Andi’s eldest daughter to Jake Ejercito. (MNS)

E ntertainment

Saturday-Friday June 5 - 11, 2021 Visit www.Balita.com

Heart Evangelista reveals art collab with Incubus frontman Brandon Boyd

A

HEART EVANGELISTA

ctress Heart Evangelista is set to collaborate with Incubus frontman Brandon Boyd for an “art project.”

Evangelista made the revelation in an Instagram Stories post, where she shared a screenshot of her video call with Boyd, along with two other

BRANDON BOYD

personalities.

"Our little art project soon," said the actress, who is also known for her paintings. She did not give further details.

Aside from being a singer-songwriter, Boyd is also a visual artist. His art manager, Jen DiSisto, was also part of the musician's video call with Evan-

gelista.

Boyd's latest works, titled "Épines Rouges Deux" and "Épines Rouges," were painted in watercolor on paper during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Evangelista can be seen expressing her admiration for Boyd's art in the comments section, with the actress posting a heart-eyes emoji. (MNS)

Desiree del Valle is pregnant with first child with Boom Labrusca ANDI AND PHILMAR

Alexa Miro is next star to watch out for in ‘A Girl and a Guy’ MANILA (Mabuhay) — From her first big break as a 3-year-old Munting Miss You at the defunct noontime show “Magandang Tanghali Bayan," Alexa Miro is now a rising star as the latest leading lady in the upcoming sensual drama movie “A Girl and A Guy.” Its trailer has gone viral, revealing how much Miro is willing to give her all, even in many skin-baring scenes, as a millennial career girl with no clear direction about her life.

"Wasak nga ang character ko," Miro said.

Miro cannot also believe the trajectory of her career as a child talent transformed as the latest muse of director Erik Matti. "I never imagined I would do scenes like that but I fell in love with the story. I realized if I want to fulfill my dream to be recognized as an actress, I had to do the scenes, kahit minsan I had to take some wine to do the take!" she said laughing, recalling her sequences with leading man Rob Gomez.

Miro ju mpst a r ted her career as a model in a popular hamburger commercial followed by a stint at the teleserye “Araw Gabi” where she sizzled with Barbie Imperial, Ivana Alawi, Phoebe Walker and other upcoming sirens.

Now that her time has come, Miro is grateful.

"Grabe, ang saya ko to be chosen by Direk Erik.

It’s life-changing! I asked myself what did I do to deserve this. But they made me feel I deserved ALEXA MIRO to be in the project. This is the fulfillment of my childhood dream," said Miro, who is completing her communication studies at De La Salle University.

Miro also related how she immersed herself in the role of Fiona, a career girl caught in a series of heartbreak, and quick turnover of jobs and relationships. “Relatable 'yung istorya sa generation namin," she said, also citing her comfortable connection to Gomez even in the sensual scenes.

"Actually we didn’t go through sensual workshops for the movie," Miro related. "Walang ganun si Direk Erik. I guess he wanted the interaction to be organic. I am thankful also that Rob and I had chemistry, magaan ang loob ko sa kanya, automatic ang connection. And we took care of protecting each other in our scenes."

Miro herself reckons that with many revealing scenes, she doubts that "A Girl and A Guy” will get an approval from the Movie and TV Classification Board. Clearly it’s an R18 movie but Miro stressed, "This is not only baring. Our roles which reflect the times should be appreciated."

"A Girl and A Guy" will start its run on upstream.ph on June 24. (MNS)

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Celebrity couple Desiree del Valle and Boom Labrusca announced that they are expecting their first child together.

On Instagram, both shared photos of del Valle lounging by a pool, with her baby bump in view, as well as the result of their pregnancy test, and a sonogram.

“Believe in what you pray for,” Labrusca captioned the set of photos.

Quoting from the Bible, he added, “At the right time, I, the Lord will make it happen.”

The couple confirmed del Valle’s pregnancy on April 22, according to Labrusca.

“Salamat po Ama,” Labrusca wrote. “Can’t wait to see you baby.”

The announcement coincided with del Valle’s birthday on May 28.

“I will always dream with you papi,” del Valle told Labrusca in another Instagram post earlier this week. “Our plans for a brighter future are in God's hands. As long as we always have each other, everything is gonna be alright.”

Del Valle and Labrusca got married in January 2018, six years after they were cast as a couple in the ABS-CBN series “Aryana” in 2012.

Labrusca has a son, actor Tony Labrusca, from a past relationship with model Angel Jones. (MNS) DESIREE AND BOOM

Robi Domingo admits thinking of settling down with girlfriend MANILA (Mabuhay) — Kapamilya host Robi Domingo admitted that he and girlfriend Maiqui Pineda have been talking about their future plans.

"We've been talking about it for some quiet time now. Lalong-lalo na we are not getting any younger and 'yun naman na 'yung inaayos ko ngayon. In the coming years, you would be one of the first people who would know kung I would be bending the knee. I am so excited for that one," Domingo told Kathryn Bernardo as the first guest of "TGIS," the newest segment of the actress's YouTube channel.

"I fell in love constantly with her kasi there's another world na nakikita ko sa kanya and also she puts my feet down. 'Yun ang pinakamasarap

ROBI AND MAIQUI na pakiramdam kapag kasama ko si Maiqui na everything is real pero lahat ng pangarap ko parang natupad ko sa kanya," Domingo added.

It was in 2019 when Domingo introduced Pineda as his girlfriend to his Star Magic family.

Meanwhile, Domingo also shared his thoughts about love.

"Ang paniniwala ko -- love is serendipitous. Kapag dumating 'yung tamang tao sa tamang panahon, for me 'yon ang perfect love. Kasi pwedeng dumating 'yung tamang tao, pero marami ka pang kagustuhan before or iba 'yung priorities mo, responsibilities mo. May mga gusto ka pang maabot sa sarili mo lang.

That's okay. Tapos may dumarating din na pagkakataon pero hindi naman siya 'yung perfect na tao, 'yung tamang tao para sa iyo," Domingo said.

"So kapag naghalo na 'yung dalawang konsepto na 'yon (timing) at right person, then I think 'yun na 'yon. And I guess 'yun ang mayroon sa amin," he added. (MNS)

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19

Maris Racal admits she's happy with Rico Blanco MANILA (Mabuhay) — Actress Maris Racal has admitted that she is happy with former Rivermaya frontman Rico Blanco.

"Masaya naman po.

Nahihiya lang po ako sa mga kasama ko," Racal said in a digital press conference for two upcoming episodes of "Maalaala Mo Kaya" in

R ac a l a nd Bla nco made head lines in March af ter she published a birthday greeting to the musician which sparked dating rumors.

Neither Blanco, 48, nor Racal, 23, confirmed being an official couple at the time.

Racal and Blanco first had a public ex-

Blanco and Racal released a duet of her single, “Abot Langit,” where he is credited as a collaborator.

In the conference, Racal expressed her excitement doing a twopart episode of "MMK" titled "Finding Papa" with Cris Villanueva as the father of her character.

Vhong Navarro, Maine Mendoza team up for a project

“I RICO AND MARIS June.

Asked to describe the real score between her and Blanco, Racal said: "Kami po ni Rico.

I think basing po sa post na ginawa ko po, I think it's very obvious. Right now, we are very excited and busy din. We are preparing such beautiful music together. Kaya abangan nila 'yon soon."

change on social media in 2018 when the former “Pinoy Big Brother” housemate sought for creative input for her music. At the time, a fan of both tagged Blanco in a comment on Racal’s tweet, getting an affirmative answer from the former Rivermaya member.

A year later in 2019,

Their "Father's Day" episode will air on June 12 and June 19 at 9 p.m.

"MMK" is available on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, Kapamilya Online Live YouTube channel, ABS-CBN Entertainment Facebook page, at iWantTFC. It's also available on The Filipino Channel and IPTV.

(MNS)

Ronnie Liang is now a licensed private pilot

RONNIE LIANG MANILA (Mabuhay) — OPM singer Ronnie Liang took to social media to share that he has reached a new milestone in his career as a pilot.

In an Instagram post, Liang shared that he finally received his Private Pilot License (PPL).

"Finally, I’ve gotten my license as a Pilot (PPL) after countless sleepless nights of studying and a multitude of flying hours of training. My childhood dream when I was in 4th grade has now materialized," Liang wrote.

"I went confidently in the direction

of my dreams and now it's here -- it's a reality!"

Liang started to take flying lessons in October 2018. In 2019, the singer had his first solo flight in Subic.

Liang also underwent military training at the Armor “Pambato” Division in Tarlac. He took the Mechanized Infantry Operations Training course to further his knowledge about addressing conventional and external threats. Liang earned the rank of second lieutenant after his graduation in February 2020. (MNS)

t’s Showtime” host Vhong Navarro surprised his followers as he shared a photo of him with him Maine Mendoza, a mainstay of rival program “Eat Bulaga.”

“Masaya at magaan katrabaho!” Navarro said of Mendoza, in the caption of the photo on Instagram.

“Nice working with you,” he added, tagging Mendoza’s account.

Navarro also used the hashtag #EatShowtime, a playful portmanteau of their respective noontime program’s title.

He did not share details about the project that brought him and Mendoza together.

Mendoza, who rose to fame in 2015 as one-half of the “AlDub” tandem, is no

stranger to cross-network collaborations.

Notably, she starred opposite Carlo Aquino in the ABS-CBN Films-produced film “Isa Pa With Feelings” in 2019; and, the year prior, joined Coco Martin in the action comedy flick “Jack Em Popoy: The Puliscredibles.”

“Eat Bulaga,” which aired for six years on ABS-CBN until 1995 as a blocktime program, is on its 42nd year.

“It’s Showtime,” meanwhile, is approaching its 12th anniversary in October. (MNS)

‘We wanted it,’ John Lloyd says of parenthood with Ellen Adarna MANILA (Mabuhay) — For the first time, John “But ‘pag may mga random or mga unexpectLloyd Cruz opened up about becoming a first- ed na conversations and you actually ponder time parent with former partner and co-star on being a father, ‘yun lang naman talaga yung Ellen Adarna. time na mapapaisip ka na, ‘Oo nga noh?’ Kasi Cruz and Adarna welcomed their first child, napaka-ano niya eh, matrabaho siya so—parang Elias Modesto, in June 2018. The two have since practical siya,” he said. separated and currently have a co-parenting “It’s very physical as well, so nandun ka sa setup. physicality of being a father, parang minsan lang “Hindi siya ganun kadali. Parang pang pe- naman yung mapapaisip ka and mapapa-reflect likula lang pala yung ano—yung parang na- ka na, it feels nice ah.” laman mo parang, ‘Magiging tatay na ako!’.

Cruz had a quick answer when asked what Para sa akin hindi. I qualities of himself he mean, kung ano yung sees in Elias: “Ayokong nangyari sa akin, hinmakita sarili ko. Wala.” di. To each its own.

“Bibig, mata,” he conceded. “Meron siBaka naman sa iba, totoo ‘yun and you can yang ginagawa sa bibig niya, sa mata na kaknever tell kung ‘yun ay totoo o hindi. Okay yan, abahan ka eh kasi… ‘yung nangyari sayo. pero magbabago pa Pero para sa akin… naman ‘yon. But he’s We wanted it eh. Alam very stubborn like me naman na namin na it and like the mother.” was going to happen,” Cruz also opened up Cruz said. about how he spends T h e “ O n e Mo r e time with Elias, whenever the boy is with Chance” star recalled that Adarna’s pregnanhim, saying they usucy and Elias’ birth came ally have an active day at a tumultuous time. of playing and then a lazy night before bed“Halu-halo kasi siya eh. Ang dami nangyari time. at that time. Like yung “So pagka ganun, at father ni Ellen passed you see him winding JOHN LLOYD CRUZ away two weeks before down at night, pipikpinanganak si Elias and she was going through it-pikit yung mata niya nilalabanan niya. ‘Yun motherhood, becoming a mother and our own yung gustong gusto ko na parang alam mo na personal issues. Di ba parang lahat ang dami napagod siya today so it’s a good day,” he said. nangyari. And halos walang time actually to Asked what his dreams are for his son, Cruz reflect on what’s happening on a day-to-day instead gave an example of moments that have basis,” Cruz said. made him proud of Elias.

Without giving details, Cruz recalled that he “Pinaka-proud ako hearing him say ‘please’ “was going through my own” personal situation. and ‘thank you.’ ‘Yun lang naman yung parang Cruz admitted he has seldom had the chance munting pangarap ko nung pinanganak siya na to sit down and process the changes in his life sana matuto siya mag ‘please’ at ‘thank you,’” he said. (MNS) since becoming a father.

20

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