Weekend Balita (Los Angeles edition) March 23, 2024

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intensifies vaping ban implementation in schools 12

 DILG: Revitalized ‘pulis sa barangay’ to bring gov’t closer to people 13

 Marcos hopes for PH, US success in easing Indo-Pacific tension 14 Global News

Sections

 ENTERTAINMENT. Dingdong Dantes-Charo Santos movie to start filming April 19

 BUSINESS. PBBM says 8% economic growth target within his term ‘doable’ 16

 FIL-AM COMMUNITY. Si Dr. Jose P. Rizal at ang Monumento sa Madrid 3

 HEALTH. PDEA warns public vs. marijuana-flavored vapes 15

In a news release on Thursday, DMW Officer-in-charge Undersecretary Hans Leo Cadac said they came up with the recommendation during their meeting on March 19. It was sent to the International Bargaining Forum (IBF).

He said Filipino seafarers should be able to exercise their

“Arnie” Teves Jr.

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed before midnight Thursday the arrest of ousted Negros Oriental 3rd District congressman and designated terrorist Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr., in Dili, East Timor. The DOJ news release posted on Facebook said Teves was nabbed at around 4 p.m. while playing golf at the Top Golf Driving Range and Bar.

Teves is facing multiple murder charges in connection with the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and nine others in March 2023 and three others in 2019.

"We already confi rmed that the mastermind of my husband's murder has finally been captured by Timor Leste police. Words cannot express how it feels to finally see the man who terrorized our province and brutally murdered my husband surrounded by police. Dalaygon ang buhi nga Dios!"

Pamplona, Negros Oriental Mayor Janice Degamo, the

Los Angeles, CA — The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a proposal by Supervisor Janice Hahn to explore creating a Senior Safe Home to protect victims of elder abuse.

One in ten seniors have experienced some form of elder abuse which can range from fi nancial, emotional, physical, sexual, or psychological. On average, a tenth of these

“right to refuse” to sail on vessels bound for areas classified as WLZs.

This, amid the continuing missile and drone attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels, who sympathize with the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

“The DMW and MITC prioritizes the safety and rights of seafarers, who should be made fully aware of their assigned routes and the potential dangers involved,” Cacdac said.

He said Filipino seafarers who refuse to sail should also be protected from discrimination or withheld compensation.

“Our seafarers are not soldiers or military personnel and we cannot allow them to risk their safety and lives by operating in areas

victims face homelessness due to the abuse. However, no facilities in LA County are dedicated to providing refuge to these survivors, with only one such facility existing west of the Mississippi.

“Victims of elder abuse without any safe place to go will continue to be abused or will fall into homelessness,” said Supervisor Janice Hahn. “By creating a Senior Safe

of Small Homes Takes Leap Forward in Sacramento, San Jose Murder suspect Teves arrested in East Timor

SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom announced an update on the state's efforts to provide small homes to select communities across California for individuals experiencing homelessness. Sacramento and San Jose are the fi rst two communities out of four announced last year, to make significant progress working with the state on the delivery of small homes.

“Sacramento and San Jose have stepped up to do the heavy lifting needed for the delivery of small homes. These communities are utilizing the resources and funding provided by the state to ensure that more housing

MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and United States (US) President Joe Biden will hold a meeting in Washington next month to find ways to boost alliance, Malacañang said Tuesday.

The Palace, through a statement issued by the Department

By Selen Ozturk | EMS

One year after the multilingual CA vs Hate reporting hotline was launched, how has it answered hate?

At a Friday, March 15 Ethnic Media Services briefi ng, CA vs Hate staff, civil rights state organizers and community organizations on the ground discussed hate crime trends throughout California, and how the hotline connects those experiencing hate with local resources including mental health support, legal aid and financial help.

The hotline

Since the CA vs Hate line was launched in May 2023, “we have received 823 reports of hate across 79% of the counties in California,” said Chantel Bermudez, senior manager of the hotline.

The protected status reported most often is race, ethnicity, country of origin; then religion; sexual orientation; and gender identity. “66% of those who reported hate accepted care services,” she added, the top five kinds being legal aid, general counseling; consumer complaint assistance; community action and

of Foreign Affairs (DFA), announced that Marcos will be having a bilateral meeting with Biden, on the sidelines of the two leaders’ trilateral summit with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on April 11.

“While in Washington, D.C., President Marcos will also be hosted by President Biden in the White House for a meeting that will acknowledge the remarkable progress in Philippines-United States ties and the enduring commitment on both sides to further strengthen the alliance,” the DFA said in a statement released by Malacañang. Marcos’ scheduled US trip comes after the visits of US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and the first US President Trade and Investment Mission led by US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo to the Philippines.

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Migrant Workers and the Maritime Industry Tripartite Council (MITC) of the Philippines pushed for the declaration of the southern portion of the Red Sea and the entire Gulf of Aden as “war-like zones” (WLZs).

Arnolfo

Generational Wealth Now in Reach for First-Time California Homebuyers

By Selen Ozturk | EMS

Homeownership, often the first step for generational wealth, is ever-more unaffordable for California families — especially those of color.

Now, the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) is changing that for fi rst-generation homebuyers with its Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan Program.

Dream For All

The program, now in its second round thanks to $250 million from the state legislature, helped 2,000 homebuyers in its first round in April 2023.

Dream For All is aimed to help another 2,000 now through a mortgage-lowering loan of up to $150,000 or 20% of a house purchase price, whichever is less.

“With this program, we’re trying to jumpstart the generational wealth that owning a home can get you,” said CalHFA Information Officer Eric Johnson. “If it’s a 20% loan, for example, you do have to pay that 20% when you sell or refi nance the home, plus 20% of what you’ve gained in the sale, so we can use that money to fund the next generation of new homebuyers.

To be considered a first-generation homebuyer, applicants must not have owned their first home in the last seven years, and their parents must not cur-

rently own a home — or, if they died, must not have owned one at their passing. Those who were in the foster care system at any time also qualify.

To qualify for the loan, at least one person on it must be a California resident and at least one person must be a first-generation homebuyer, but these need not be the same person.

Income limits also apply per county, though they are as high as $287,000 for buyers in Santa Clara County and $280,000 for San Francisco and Marin.

“It does feel a little bit strange that a low-to-moderate-income homebuyer can make that much, but that’s where California is these days,” said Johnson.

Unlike the “fi rst come, fi rst served” fi rst round of loans in 2023, this application period will be a lottery randomly

drawn from applications fi led between April 3 and April 29, so that funds are distributed more fairly. Although no announcement date for drawn names is set after they’re audited, it will likely be the first or second week of May.

To enter the lottery, first-time homebuyers will need a credit approval letter from one of CalHFA’s approved lenders. Those who win the loan have 90 days to find and buy a home.

There are so many Californians who have a good income, who have good jobs and credit, but haven’t been able to save up for a downpayment, not having the advantage of intergenerational wealth,” said Johnson.

Generational and racial wealth gaps

A disproportionate amount

of these homebuyers are from communities of color, said Maeve Elise Brown, Executive Director and Founder of Housing and Economic Rights Advocates (HERA).

In 2023, the homeownership rate for Black U.S. households was at 45.9% — 28.6 percentage points below the white rate of 74.4%. For Latino households, the gap was a similar 25.8% below the white rate.

A 2022 poll with similar results found that 38% of white adults said they’d received at least $10,000 in gifts or loans from a relative for large expenses like a down payment, while only 14% of Black, 16% of Latino and 19% of Native American adults had.

“Though homeownership has been a generational economic driver, property values are outpacing our ability to pay them” — the average California home price is over $765,000 as of March 2024 — “and the debt people of color carry, especially student debt, creates a downpayment and safe loan credit barrier,” said Brown.

Black bachelor’s degree holders, for instance, have an average of $52,000 in student debt, and four years after graduation they hold nearly twice as much debt as their white peers. 46% of Black student borrowers are likely to put off buying a home due to this debt.

Los Angeles County Conducts Pathway Home Operation in Signal Hill and Long Beach

60 people experiencing unsheltered homelessness are indoors and on a pathway to permanent housing

Los Angeles County’s Pathway Home program brought 60 people experiencing homelessness off the streets of Signal Hill and Long Beach and into safe interim housing, where they will receive supportive services and other resources to help them transition out of homelessness and into permanent housing.

“Through this Pathway Home operation, we were able to bring entire encampments inside in a matter of days,” said Supervisor Janice Hahn, Fourth District. “These encampments were unhealthy for the people living in them and the entire community and I am grateful all these individuals are inside and getting the support they need. I appreciate both the cities of Signal Hill and Long Beach for being partners in this effort and embracing solutions to unsheltered homelessness.”

The LA County Homeless Initiative collaborated with the Office of Supervisor Janice Hahn and the Cities of Signal Hill and Long Beach to conduct the Pathway Home operation on March 14, 2024, and ensure the operation’s success.

"We are thrilled to partner with the County on this vital program. Pathway Home is not just about providing shelter; it's about offering a new beginning and a real chance for a stable, self-sufficient life for our homeless residents,” Signal Hill Mayor Lori Woods said. “We are happy to support this partnership which aligns with the City's commitment to address homelessness with compassionate and sustainable long-term solutions; it also demonstrates the power of collaboration in tackling significant social challenges.”

"For the second time in three months, we have partnered with LA County to bring folks indoors through Pathway Home," said Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson. "Every time we are able to provide shelter, hope, and resources for our unhoused neighbors, we take another step towards a brighter future for Long Beach. Thank you to the LA County Homeless Initiative and Supervisor Hahn's Office for your support and partnership."

Working closely with both cities, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) and nonprofit service provider PATH led outreach efforts to bring

the unsheltered individuals indoors, leveraging the trusting relationships they had established with the encampment residents and providing ongoing engagement and support leading up to the day of the operation.

Signal Hill City Manager Carlo Tomaino said, “The City’s involvement in the Pathway Home program underscores our commitment to innovative and humane solutions for our homeless population. This partnership is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together towards a common goal of ending homelessness in our community.”

The LA County Department of Mental Health's Homeless Outreach and Mobile Engagement (HOME) Team provided field-based support and treatment to Pathway Home clients during outreach, including crisis

As this wealth gap expands, the racial homeownership gap is stagnating, said Ria Cotton, a broker and owner of Cotton Realty.

As of 2022, 72% of white Americans, 63% of Asian Americans, 51% of Hispanic Americans and 44% of Black Americans owned a home.

While the overall American homeownership rate rose from 64.7% a decade prior to 65.5% in 2022, the Black-white homeownership gap rose from 26% to 29%, according to the National Association of Realtors.

“The Dream For All loan lets people historically disadvantaged from buying a home leverage that generational wealth, but we can’t stop there,” explained Cotton. “We have to start with helping communities build credit, minimize debt-to-income and save for a downpayment, and talk about what happens after you buy — from foreclosure prevention, to developing more property, to using your credit for equity, like buying a car for lower interest rates.”

“Our message with this loan program is: ‘There’s hope. It’s still possible to buy a house in California,’” added Johnson.

“We have a wealth gap in this country that’s driving unequal homeownership, and this loan shows us how much your generational legacy matters in powering through it,” said Cotton.

Home, we can protect survivors of elder abuse from their abusers and get them the help and support they need to enjoy their golden years with dignity and in peace.”

With Supervisor Hahn’s proposal, the LA County Department of Aging and Disabilities will take the lead on developing a roadmap to creating a Senior Safe Home. The model would be similar to a domestic violence shelter, providing a secure location where survivors would be protected from abusers and would have their own rooms with wraparound supportive services.

management when necessary. PATH will continue to support the clients during their stay in interim housing, including by providing housing navigation services to enable them to move into their own permanent homes.

Pathway Home is an LA County Homeless Initiative-led encampment resolution program that is a critical component of the County’s comprehensive response to the local emergency on homelessness adopted by the Board of Supervisors in 2023. By leveraging emergency powers and partnerships with local jurisdictions, Pathway Home is a full-circle solution that brings people off the streets into immediately available interim housing accompanied by a comprehensive suite of supportive services and, ultimately, into safe, permanent homes.

The Aging & Disabilities Department will work with the Departments of Public Health, Health Services, Mental Health, Public Social Services, CEO Real Estate, Homeless Initiative and community stakeholders to provide a 180-day feasibility report back to the Board of Supervisors. This report back will include substantiated elder abused data from the last 5 years, the development of site-specific criteria, and a pilot project funding model to help establish sustainability.

The idea of an LA County Senior Safe Home would build on the concept brought to Hahn’s office by the Long Beach Senior Citizen Advisory Commission. While the City of Long Beach recently explored how to create a senior safe home, they were unable to provide this resource, showing the need for collaboration and locking arms with the County.

Solis Proclaims March 29, 2024 as 'Vietnam War Veterans Day' in Los Angeles County

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion spearheaded by Supervisor Hilda L. Solis to proclaim March 29, 2024 as "Vietnam War Veterans Day" in Los Angeles County.

The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act, signed into law in 2017, designates every March 29 as "National Vietnam War Veterans Day." This day was selected because it marks the day the last U.S. combat troops left Vietnam soil in 1973.

"March 29 is a reminder to us about those individuals who left their homes, whether drafted or not, to serve our nation. The Vietnam War was not found, by some, to be a sound military action, but nevertheless, our women and men braved through tough situations," said Supervisor Solis. "Upon their return, they did not come home to ticker tape parades or warm welcomes. However, they marched on. Some went to school, found jobs, coached youth sports, and started families. Others struggled to adjust to the new world they had returned to. Here

we are almost 70 years later since President Eisenhower deployed U.S. advisors to the Republic of Vietnam. We are grateful to the women and men who sacrificed so much, and we honor your service to your communities, your families, and our Nation. God bless you and your loved ones."

"We owe a great debt of gratitude to our Vietnam veterans for not just their actions on the battlefield, but also for the tremendous contributions to improving the way future generations of veterans are received when they return home," said Jim Zenner, director of Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. "Vietnam Veterans Day is a reminder of their sacrifices and a call to action to ensure society never allows a generation of veterans we send to war to be abandoned again."

In addition to the proclamation, the motion instructs Countywide Communications to highlight the work of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and other County Departments' commemorations of this day.

Si Dr. Jose P. Rizal at ang Monumento sa Madrid

Bakit nga ba napakaraming rebulto ang naitayo para kay Dr. Jose Protacio Rizal sa ibang bansa? Isa sa aking nasaliksik ay dahil raw sa kanyang malaking inpluwensiya gawa ng pagiging isang Pambansang Bayani na bumiyahe sa iba’t ibang bansa ng mundo, at dagdag na rin dito ang mga kontribusyon na nagawa niya sa edukasyon, panitikan at promosyon ng human rights.

Malaking hirap at sakripisyo din ang dinanas ng ating Pambansang Bayani para mabigyan ng daan ang kalayaan sa ating bansa. Sa kabila nito, si Gat Rizal na may katangiang masasabi nating extraordinaryo –isang henyo na hinahangaan gawa ng kanyang katapatan sa bansa, katapangan, kaalaman ng iba’t ibang linguwahe, ganoon din sa larangan ng sining, at pati medisina – ay tinitingala hindi lang sa Pilipinas pati na rin sa ibang bansa.

Lumaki ako sa Sta. Cruz ng

Maynila kaya ang Luneta ay hindi kalayuan sa amin. Lalo na nang ako'y umabot na sa mataas na paaralan at kolehiyo, maraming beses kong pinupuntahan itong parkeng ito. Ito'y magandang pasyalan –maganda pa noon gawa nang sarap langhapin ang sariwang hanging dagat, at nagkaroon pa ng skating rink na madalas naming pinupuntahan.

Kakaunti lang ang parkeng mapupuntahan sa Maynila at karatig-pook. Kaya ang Luneta ay sikat na sikat. Iyong tabi ng Manila Bay ay gandang pasyalan para namnamin ang ganda ng tinatawag na “Manila Bay Sunset.” Itong lugar na ito na may simentong mauupuan ay naging “lovers’ haven” ng mga magsing-irog.

Palayo naman dito ay ang Manila Grandstand na dinadayo kapag Araw ng Kalayaan, at mga iba pang mga importanteng event. Malaking espasyo naman ang sa harap nito para sa mga maraming taong dadalo. Ang dulo nito ay

NATIONAL ASIAN PACIFIC CENTER ON AGING

Twodifferent enrollment periods for Medicare coverage will end on March 31, which are GEP (General Enrollment Period) and MA OEP (Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period). Please contact us to receive assistance with enrollment.

If you have additional questions about Medicare, Medicaid, Affordable Care Act Health Insurance Marketplace, Social Security Retirement Benefit, Supplemental Security Income, or COVID/Flu vaccination, there are 3 ways you can reach us today: Call: (English) 1-800-336-2722, (Chinese Mandarin) 1-800683-7427, (Chinese Cantonese) 1-800-582-4218, (Korean) 1-800582-4259, (Vietnamese) 1-800-582-4336

Email: askNAPCA@napca.org

Mail: NAPCA Senior Assistance Center, 1511 3rd Avenue, Suite 914, Seattle, WA 98101

<1> What is the diff erence between GEP (General Enrollment Period) and MAOEP (Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period)?

GEP and MA OEP take place annually during the same time window but are distinct periods related to Medicare, and they serve different purposes.

GEP is for individuals who were first eligible for Medicare but didn’t enroll in Medicare Part A and/or Part B during their Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) and who aren’t eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). For example, if you delayed initial enrollment when you were fi rst eligible for Medicare due to having current job-based health insurance, and later, when you retire or you are no longer covered by your employer insurance, you may be eligible to have 8-months SEP. If you missed the SEP, you should use GEP to enroll in Medicare. Note that MA OEP is specifically only for individuals who are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C, MA plan) and want to make changes.

<2> What can I do during GEP (General Enrollment Period)?

During GEP, individuals can enroll in Medicare Part A and/ or Part B for the fi rst time. Coverage will begin on the fi rst day of the following month after you enroll, and you may face a late enrollment penalty because you missed your Initial Enrollment Period. The penalty could result in higher premiums for as long as you have Medicare. Note that you may not sign up for a standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan during GEP even if you need drug coverage with Original Medicare as drug coverage is not included. The GEP is specifically for enrolling in Medicare Part A and/or Part B, not for Part D. To have a stand-alone Part D plan, you may have to wait for the upcoming Medicare Open Enrollment Period that occurs between October 15 and December 7 every year.

<3> What can I do during MA OEP (Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period)?

As mentioned in <1>, MA OEP is only for those who already are enrolled in MA plan.

You can switch from one MA plan to another, or you can disenroll from your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). If you return to Original Medicare, you have the option to enroll in a stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. Note that MA OEP does not apply to Original Medicare beneficiaries, that means you cannot switch from Original Medicare to MA plan, you cannot join a part D prescription drug plan or cannot switch one part D plan to another if you’re in Original Medicare.

ang dating Dewey Boulevard na ngayon ay Roxas Boulevard na.

Bago ka tumawid sa malapad na kalsada ay iyo nang masisilayan ang monumento ni Rizal. Napakagandang tanawin talaga. Mayroon pang mga guwardiyang nagbabantay sa rebulto.

Malapit din dito ay ang

Chinese at Japanese Gardens. Mayroon din kainan sa gilid, at kung lalayo ka pa ay may malaking mapa pa ng Pilipinas kang makikita. Malapit din dito iyong dati naming naging hang-out, iyong skating rink ng mga 70s.

Ang Luneta ay naging execution ground ng mga Kastila noong sakop pa nila ang Pilipinas. Gawa nga ng mga may Pilipinong kritikal sa mga banyagang mananakop noon – tulad ni Gat Rizal – sila ay hinaharap sa isang fi ring squad para barilin. Ang ating bayani ay hinatulang barilin noong Disyembre 30, 1896.

<4> Can I add a Medigap plan to Original Medicare during GEP or MA OEP?

Medicare basically covers 80% of the cost for each Medicare-covered service or item after you’ve paid your deductible. If you decide to stay with Original Medicare (Part A and B) and want to cover the 20% financial gap that Medicare doesn’t pay for, you may want to add a Medigap plan to your Original Medicare. Ideally, the best time to purchase a Medigap policy is during your Medigap OEP, which starts the first day of the month that you’re both 65 or older AND enrolled in Medicare Part B. This period lasts for six months. During this period, Medigap companies must sell you a policy at the best available rate regardless of your health status, and they cannot deny you coverage.

If you miss your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, you can still apply for a Medigap policy, but you may face underwriting which insurers use to figure out your health status and determine whether to offer you coverage, at what price, and with what exclusions or limits. Based on your pre-existing health conditions, you may have to have a waiting period or insurers may charge you more or deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions.

Be aware that this information only pertains to protections that apply nationwide. Some states have other protections that give their residents additional opportunities to enroll in a Medigap.

National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of AANHPI older adults and their families. We operate a NAPCA Senior Assistance Center for Older Adults and Caregivers and is available in 5 different languages.

Photos and text by: Vics Magsaysay

Today, Jessica Caloza released a statement after earning a first-place finish in the race for California’s 52nd Assembly District, advancing her campaign to the November 5th General Election. As of the time of this release, Caloza had secured 23,330 votes for roughly 30%, with more than 2,800 votes than her closest opponent in the crowded field of 10 candidates.

Reacting to the election results, Caloza released the following statement:

“I’m incredibly humbled and grateful to the voters of Assembly District 52—from East L.A. to Northeast L.A. to Glendale— thank you for believing in our shared vision of building a brighter future that uplifts all voices and communities that don’t always feel heard and seen in the halls of government.”

“Our first place finish would not be possible without our incredible army of volunteers and supporters— thank you all for your hard work, dedication, and heart for serving our community. I’m so proud of the diverse coalition we’ve built to power our campaign— family, friends, neighbors, small businesses, seniors, young people, women’s rights organizations, labor leaders, Democratic activists, and community members. We are going to take this momentum into the General Election because we have so much to fight for—cost of living, affordable housing, homelessness, climate action, gun violence prevention, public education, reproductive freedom, healthcare for all, and so much more. I look forward to continuing to make the case to voters in the coming months why our team can deliver real progress for District 52.”

Caloza, a first generation immigrant and a proud product of the public school system, has amassed

a far-reaching coalition of support since entering the AD-52 contest, earning sought-after support from working families organizations and some of California's most widely respected leaders, including the following:

WORKING FAMILIES ORGANIZATIONS Service Employees International Union (SEIU) California State Council

SEIU United Healthcare Workers West (UHWW)

SEIU United Services Workers West (USWW)

SEIU Local 99

SEIU Local 121RN

SEIU Local 721

SEIU Local 1000

SEIU Local 2015

California State University Employees Union (CSUEU) California Nurses Association (CNA)

California Federation of Teachers (CFT)

California School Employees Association (CSEA)

Glendale College Guild/American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Local 2276

Western States Regional Council of Carpenters

UNITE HERE Local 11

Teamsters Joint Council 42 Association of California School Administrators (ACSA)

American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 3634 - Metro Supervisors International Longshore & Warehouse Union Southern California District Council (ILWU SCDC) International Longshore and Warehouse

Union (ILWU) Local 13

Ironworkers Local 416 Ironworkers Local 433

International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 33 International Union of Painters & Allied Trades District Council 36 United Association (UA) Local 250 Refrigeration, Steamfitters, Welders, and Pipefitters

STATEWIDE & COMMUNITY ORGANIZA-

TIONS

California Democratic Legislative Women’s Caucus

California Asian & Pacific Islander (API)

Legislative Caucus

California Environmental Voters (EnviroVoters)

Planned Parenthood Advocacy Project

Los Angeles County Action Fund

Reproductive Freedom for All California

Equality California (EQCA)

Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce

Jobs PAC

California Women’s List

Women’s Political Committee (WPC)

Fund Her Abundant Housing Los Angeles

Housing Action Coalition

YIMBY Action

Run for Something

A Pipeline Project (APP)

California Bicycle Coalition

California Young Democrats (CYD)

California College Democrats (CCD)

California Young Democrats (CYD) Asian Pacific Islander Caucus

California High School Democrats (CAHSD)

UCLA Bruin Democrats

Asian Democrats of Los Angeles County (ADLAC)

Korean American Democratic Committee (KADC)

Pilipino American Los Angeles Democrats (PALAD)

Southern California Armenian Democrats (SCAD)

Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) Glendale Chapter Chinese American Citizens Alliance

ELECTED LEADERS

U.S. Congressmember Judy Chu

U.S. Congressmember Ted Lieu

U.S. Congressmember (ret.) Mike Honda

California Attorney General Rob Bonta

California State Controller Malia Cohen

California State Treasurer Fiona Ma

California Controller (ret.) John Chiang

State Senator Josh Becker

State Senator Dave Min

State Senator Nancy Skinner, California

Legislative Women's Caucus Chair

State Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas

State Senator (ret.) Bob Hertzberg

Assembly Speaker Emeritus John A. Pérez

Assemblymember Dawn Addis

Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan

Assemblymember Tasha Boerner

Assemblymember Mia Bonta

Assemblymember Isaac Bryan

Assemblymember Mike Fong

Assemblymember Matt Haney, Majority

Whip

Assemblymember Chris Holden

Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer

Assemblymember Alex Lee

Assemblymember Evan Low, API Legislative Caucus Chair

Assemblymember Tina McKinnor

Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen, Assistant Speaker Pro Tem

Assemblymember Liz Ortega

Assemblymember Gail Pellerin

Assemblymember Phil Ting

Assemblymember (ret.) Mike Eng

Assemblymember (ret.) S. Floyd Mori

L.A. County Supervisor Hilda Solis, former U.S. Secretary of Labor

Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Board Member Dr. Rocio Rivas

San Diego Mayor & Assemblymember (ret.) Todd Gloria

San Francisco City Attorney & Assemblymember (ret.) David Chiu

Daly City Mayor Ray Buenaventura

Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao

Artesia Mayor (ret.) Victor Manalo

Sierra Madre Mayor (ret.) Rachelle

Pastor Arizmendi Cerritos Mayor (ret.) Mark Pulido

Mountain View Councilmember Marga-

ret Abe-Koga

LA Community College District Trustee

Dr. Kelsey Iino Irvine Vice Mayor Tammy Kim

Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee Torrance Unified School District Board

Member Betty Lieu Alhambra City Councilmember Jeff

Maloney

Daly City Vice Mayor Juslyn Manalo

Montebello City Councilmember Salvador Melendez

El Camino Community College District

Board of Trustees Vice President Trisha

Murakawa

El Cerrito City Councilmember Gabriel

Quinto Mountain View City Councilmember

Emily Ramos

Rancho Palos Verdes City Councilmember Paul Seo

Monterey Park City Councilmember

Thomas Wong Cerritos City Councilmember Frank

Yokoyama

Compton City Councilmember (ret.)

Michelle

DELIVERY... FROM PAGE 1

is available for individuals experiencing homelessness,” Newsom said.

Sacramento and San Jose are the first two communities to deliver on plans for small homes. The state and Sacramento have started construction at their Stockton Boulevard Safe Stay Community, which is designed for 175 small homes and is anticipated to be completed by late summer. Sacramento has also designated an additional location for their remaining allotment of 175 small homes.

“We’re proud to be leading the way with Governor Newsom and the state in deploying these innovative sleeping cabins,” said Mayor Darrell Steinberg. “This project shows how state and local governments can support each other in addressing our crisis of unsheltered homelessness. Our 175bed campus will be much more than an emergency shelter. It will provide all the services and support needed to get more people healthy and housed.”

San Jose has also advanced their project and has requested $12.7 million in funding from the state for the delivery of 200 small homes. These units will be located at a six-acre vacant site known as the VTA Cerone work yard, located in North San Jose.

“San Jose, like the rest of California, is tackling the humanitarian, fiscal and environmental crisis of homelessness,” said Mayor Matt Mahan. “This is a crisis that will take focus and action from every level of government to solve – and I’m grateful to the Governor for leaning in to help cities address the immense human suffering on our streets faster and more cost-effectively. Together, we can end the era of encampments by building safe, dignified shelter and prioritizing in-patient mental health care and addiction treatment.”

After extended and ongoing local efforts to identify sites, the state continues to work with the two remaining jurisdictions from the original pilot project – the City of Los Angeles and San Diego County – to ensure they can take advantage of the state’s offer of small homes. The San Diego county Board of Supervisors recently approved their small homes proposal, clearing the way for the project to move forward. Los Angeles is also making progress as they are in the final stages of scoping and planning their efforts, which will still need approval from their city council.

Since originally announcing this small homes effort, the state has made significant progress to deliver these units. Last summer, California successfully passed legislation giving the state more flexibility to streamline this work. The state also established a procurement process, which makes it easier for locals to utilize the state’s negotiated agreement to purchase small homes. Additionally, the Department of General Services finalized contracts with several vendors to provide a range of small home models for municipalities to utilize.

ASEAN SPOUSES CIRCLE EXPLORE SOUTHEAST ASIAN CULTURE AT GWU’S IKAT EXHIBIT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Sentro Rizal of the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., together with the George Washington University (GWU) Museum and the Textile Museum, organized a special tour of the museum for the members of the ASEAN Spouses Circle (ASC) on 15 March 2024. This event was organized as the Philippines celebrates National Women’s Month in March.

A notable feature of the program is a guided tour of the exhibition "Irresistible: The Global Patterns of Ikat." This exhibition commemorates the intricate artistic and cultural legacy of ikat, a sophisticated resist-dyeing technique employed worldwide to adorn textiles. The ex-

hibit prominently showcases exquisite pieces from diverse Southeast Asian countries. This exhibition will run through 01 June 2024 at the GWU Museum and the Textile Museum in Washington, D.C.

ASC members had the unique opportunity to visit the Cotsen Textile Traces Study Center (CTTSC) of the Museum, where they delved deeper into textiles of various ASEAN countries, and learned the art of textile preservation.

During her opening remarks, Mrs. Maria Lourdes Marquez-Romualdez, spouse of Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez, emphasized the role of women in preserving cultural tradi-

tions as she said “Throughout history, women have been the primary keepers of cultural traditions, passing on knowledge and skills from generation to generation. In today’s time, the weaving industry in the Philippines is primarily led by women, highlighting their command in sustaining these cultural traditions.”

Among the special guests in attendance were: 1) Madame Tran Thi Bich Van, ASC President and spouse of Vietnamese Ambassador to the United States H.E. Nguyen Quoc Dung; 2) Datin Seri Haflin Nazri Aziz, ASC Vice President and spouse of Malaysian Ambassador to the United States H.E. Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz; 3) Ms. Aye Mya Mya Khaing, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar; 4) Mrs. Khamphanh Inphachanh, spouse of Lao PDR Ambassador to the United States H.E. Sisavath Inphachanh; and 5) Mrs. Lui Soo Fen, spouse of Singaporean Ambassador to the United States H.E. Lui Tuck Yew.

with conditions similar to a war situation,” Cacdac added.

Meanwhile, he said the DMW will come up with regulatory mechanisms and processes that will allow Filipino seafarers to exercise their rights to refuse.

He said shipping companies and licensed manning agencies (LMAs) will also be required to register as a “significant event” the passage of any of their ships to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden through the DMW electronic Overseas Welfare Monitoring System (OWMS).

“Failure to report such a significant event opens the shipping principal and manning agency to appropriate sanctions,” he said.

The DMW will open an electronic portal as well as dedicated hotlines through which the seafarers may reach and inform the department that they are exercising their right to refuse sailing.

Both the DMW and the MITC reiterated the call for enhanced security measures in ships traversing the highly volatile sea route, which entails maritime security escorts and onboard security personnel.

The IBF is the forum that brings together the International Transport Workers Federation and international maritime employers who make up the Joint Negotiating Group.

The MITC, on the other hand, is a consultative body on policies and programs on the welfare and protection of seafarers.

It is composed of Philippine government agencies, seafarers’ groups, associations of licensed manning agencies, and Filipino shipowners. (MNS) DMW.

The GWU Museum and the Textile Museum situated in Washington, D.C., celebrates the artistic accomplishments of local and global cultures spanning ancient times to the present. Their collections feature international textile art and artifacts that reflect the evolution of Washington, D.C. Faculty and students utilize these collections for research and teaching purposes across various academic disciplines within the university. Learn more about the museum and its upcoming events through: https://museum.gwu.edu/.

Los Angeles County Proclaims April 2024 as 'Second Chance Month'

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion authored by Supervisor Solis to proclaim April 2024 as "Second Chance Month" in Los Angeles County.

“Second Chance Month seeks to help individuals, communities, and agencies recognize the importance of providing meaningful opportunities for reducing recidivism, fostering redemption, improving outcomes, and facilitating healing for the justice-involved population,” said Supervisor Solis. “I’m proud to lead a motion that will help to empower those willing to extend second chance opportunities

for our justice-involved residents – a population that is deserving of restorative justice.”

"To believe in second chances is to believe in people, and our ability to change," said Sam Lewis, executive director of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition. "To believe in second chances is to see the redeeming qualities of every human being, and truly understand that we should not be defined by the worst thing we've ever done but our ability to become the best version of ourselves when given the opportunity to do so."

To commemorate Second Chance Month, the Justice,

Care and Opportunities Department, in collaboration with community-based service providers, is hosting a series of community resource events. The events will feature services and resources that link the community to care management, workforce opportunities, education, legal resources, housing, and other supportive services.

“The Justice, Care and Opportunities Department is honored to partner with Community based providers and the Board of Supervisors to celebrate Second Chance Month," said Judge Songhai Armstead, director of the Los Angeles County Justice, Care and Opportu-

nity Department. "Second Chance Month is a beacon of hope, illuminating paths of redemption and renewal. By offering compassion and opportunities for those seeking to rebuild their lives together we can champion second chances and foster a society where every individual has the chance to rewrite their story and contribute to a brighter and safer future for all."

The motion approved today directs the Chief Executive Office – Countywide Communications to promote the Justice, Care, and Opportunities Department’s and other departments’ Second Chance Month events.

Members of the ASEAN Spouses Circle at the Myer’s Room of the GWU Museum and the Textile Museum

Ms. Karthika Audinet, Academic Coordinator of the Cotsen Textile Traces Study Center, showcases Philippine textiles featured in the museum’s collection.

Filipino California: Art and the Filipino Diaspora

GLENDALE, CA — Forest Lawn Museum proudly presents Filipino California: Art and the Filipino Diaspora. The exhibition showcases the work of seven contemporary artists working across styles and formats, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, installations, conceptual art, and more. The artists in the exhibit— Eliseo Art Silva, Allison Hueman, Anthony Francisco, Maryrose Cobarrubias Mendoza, Christine Morla, Maria Villote, and Junn Roca—directly and indirectly address issues related to Filipino culture and the Filipino-American experience. Filipino California: Art and the Filipino Diaspora is on view from April 20-September 8, 2024.

Supervisor Solis Applauds Federal Funding from Grant Programs

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — This week, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced billions in grant awards through the Reconnecting Communities Pilot (RCP) Grant Program and the Neighborhood Access and Equity (NAE) Grant Program to address infrastructure barriers, reconnect communities, and improve people’s lives. Several projects in the First District that Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis is spearheading received funding

The RCP and NAE grant programs were established by President Joe Biden through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, respectively. This year, the grant programs include allocations for the following projects in the First District: $139 million for the Los Angeles County Metro -

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social advocacy; and landlord tenant assistance.

The resource is open between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Friday by phone at 833-8-NOHATE or 833-866-4283, or anytime online at cavshate.org, for California residents to privately report and get support in over 200 languages for non-emergency hate crimes and incidents for free, regardless of immigration status, and anonymously if they choose.

Community organizations partnered with the hotline provide hate response services statewide through weekly case conferences with state civil rights agents, said CA Civil Rights Department Community-Based Organization Manager James Williams, Jr.

“This is one of the largest efforts of its kind by the sheer size of our state, and many states are looking at how we implement it by working together to help those in need of support,” he added. “As California goes, so goes much of the nation.”

politan Transportation Authority (LA Metro) in preparation for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, $9.96 million for the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works to improve the Humphreys Avenue bridge, and $800,000 for capping the SR60 to reconnect Belvedere Park, both located in unincorporated East Los Angeles.

"I am grateful to President Biden for his commitment to improving the lives of millions of Americans across the country through the Reconnecting Communities Pilot and Neighborhood Access and Equity grant programs," said Supervisor Solis. "These grants, including those that are funding projects in my district, will make profound regional and generational impact for many Angelenos."

Removing Barriers and Cre -

Stopping hate on the ground

The CA vs Hate network includes 13 call centers and five direct victim support organizations statewide.

“When someone calls the line, we provide an interpreter in their preferred language, and referrals to the type of resources they want. Someone trained to take reports writes a description of what bias motivations and words or actions the hate act included,” said Yolie Anguiano, CA vs Hate director for 211LA, the state hotline’s lead agency, which has provided a similar 24-hour LA vs Hate service for a third of Californians since 2019.

“You don’t have to be the targeted person— you can also report as an advocate or a witness,” she added.

“How can we ensure that we’re not only responding to hate, but preventing it? Hate is on the rise statewide, and comes in many forms,” said Cynthia Choi, co-founder of hotline partner Stop AAPI Hate and co-executive director of Chinese for

ating Legacy: A Multimodal Approach for Los Angeles County

As the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games draw nearer, LA Metro takes another critical step in preparing for what many anticipate as the world’s largest event. While no new venues will be built for the tournament, the car-free event will require regional transportation investments. With this historic USDOT grant, Metro will advance plans to build 60 new bike-share stations, 14 miles of dedicated bus lanes, 23 miles of bus corridor enhancements, five mobility hubs, and many other first-last mile improvements. These improvements are primarily in traditionally underserved neighborhoods and will leave a legacy of high-quality transit. This includes upgrading the El Monte Transit Center into a mo -

Affirmative Action. “To only treat criminal incidents as serious is a disservice to our community that furthers a sense of distrust and hopelessness that nothing can be done.”

“We learned very quickly from those who called us that even the fact that somebody on the other end is believing, listening to and caring about what they share with us — that there is, who cares to listen — has a healing effect,” Choi added.

Even among criminal incidents, hate is skyrocketing.

The latest available FBI data, from 2022, shows that reported hate crimes soared statewide for nearly every demographic group in California. There were a total of 2,120 reported crimes — a 20.2% jump from the previous year.

1,300 of these reports were of suspected racial, ethnic or national origin bias, while half of these targeted Black Californians — 27.1% more than the prior year.

Furthermore, Black students

bility hub and building 6.6 miles of bus priority lanes on Valley Boulevard and Santa Anita Avenue in the City of El Monte, City of Industry, and unincorporated Avocado Heights.

I-710 Humphreys Avenue Crossing: A Pedestrian and Bicycle Crossing to Bridge the 710 Divide in East Los Angeles

The USDOT also awarded $9.96 million to the I-710 Humphrey's Avenue Crossing project, which will replace the existing outdated East Los Angeles bridge with a new pedestrian and bicycle overpass. A collaboration between Los Angeles County Public Works, LA Metro, and Caltrans, the project will enhance connectivity and include pedestrian safety upgrades like improved crosswalks, ADA-compliant ramps, and sidewalks. Reconnecting East Los Ange -

in about 6% of California public schools report experiencing hate.

“The highest-reported situations our units statewide get are school violence situations specifically targeted at Black students,” said Connie Alexander-Boaitey, president of hotline partner NAACP Santa Barbara. “Unfortunately, most of this hate towards black students is being perpetrated by Latinx students … and we’re struggling in the communication between these communities. How do you focus on school when you’re being traumatized every day?”

To address this school hate, NAACP Santa Barbara and the California Civil Rights Department kicked off an ongoing series of intercommunity dialogues between the Latino and Black communities on February 26.

“You can report and report hate, but if we don’t encourage communities to talk to each other, we can’t get to the source and help our students thrive at

les: 60 Green Bridge Project for Belvedere Park

Communities of color, such as East Los Angeles, have suffered from being divided by major infrastructure, pollution, and emissions. This $800,000 grant affords the community a unique opportunity to collaboratively reimagine a unified park and address the environmental and social harms the freeway has imposed on East Los Angeles for over fifty years. The SR-60 Green Bridge Project for Belvedere Park will increase the urban tree canopy with new public open space, improve pedestrian and bike access including active recreation fields, and improve access to the metro station thereby reducing the heat island effect and contributing to the health and wellness of the community.

school,” said Alexander-Boaitey.

LGBT+ hate crimes are also on the rise, with 391 motivated by sexual orientation bias in California in 2022 — 29% more than the previous year.

Furthermore, these are only reported crimes; the U.S. National Crime Victimization Survey estimates that at least 40% to 50% of all hate crimes are unreported to law enforcement.

Overall, LGBT+ people are nine times more likely to be victims of a hate crime than non-LGBT individuals.

“Since the CA vs Hate line kicked off, we’ve definitely seen an increase in people seeking services against discrimination, especially legal housing and mental health support,” said Ariel Bustamante, senior manager of capacity building at hotline partner LA LGBT Center.

“From a small business owner being gunned down for visible support of the community, to a terrified

Image credit: Eliseo Art Silva, Inang Kayumanggi ng California (The Brown Madonna of California), 2022. Acrylic on canvas, 25 x 30 inches. Courtesy of the artist

Image credit: Allison Hueman, The Mystery of Life, 2024. Acrylic, wax, and spray paint on canvas, 96 x 72 inches. Courtesy of the artist

A Recession coming in 2024-2025

While the economic landscape for the United States in 2024 is complex and nuanced, signs suggest that the country may face the looming specter of a recession. Various economic indicators, such as the yield curve spread and consumer sentiment, paint a picture of uncertainty and caution among investors and consumers alike.

The economist David Rosenberg’s “full model” highlights an 85% chance of a recession within the next 12 months. This prediction is further reinforced by the New York Fed model, which historically has been a reliable predictor of recessions based on yield curve data.

Despite a recent shift in sentiment, with some investors hopeful for a soft landing facilitated by Federal Reserve interest rate hikes, many remain cautious. The divide is apparent across different sectors of the economy. While the Federal Reserve staff no longer forecast a recession, economists are split, with 48% predicting a recession within the next year. Consumer sentiment on Main Street leans toward caution, with over 69% believing a recession is likely.

In contrast, certain segments of corporate America, such as Goldman Sachs and Bank of America, have revised their recession forecasts downward. However, a significant majority of CEOs are still preparing for a potential downturn in the next 12-18 months.

The economic tug-of-war is further complicated by mixed signals in the wider economy. While retail sales remain solid, household debt has surged to record highs, and corporate defaults are on the rise. This dichotomy underscores the uncertainty surrounding the potential impact of higher interest rates on consumers and businesses.

Amidst this economic uncertainty, certain companies have emerged as beacons of success. Nvidia and Meta have soared to new heights, with Nvidia becoming the world’s third most valuable company and Meta re-entering the trillion-dollar club. However, other tech giants like Apple and Tesla have faced challenges, with Tesla losing over a quarter of its value year-to-date and Apple struggling with weakening demand and setbacks in its AI and electric car endeavors.

Overall, while the economic landscape in 2024 is fraught with uncertainty and mixed signals, the looming possibility of a recession underscores the need for vigilance and careful economic management in the months ahead.

As the housing market heats up and late homebuyers rush to seize the opportunity, it’s essential for them to carefully consider their readiness and financial preparedness before jumping into the pool of home ownership. Reflecting on the lessons learned from past housing crises, such as the one in 2008, can help potential homebuyers make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls. Here are some key factors that homebuyers should consider:

1. Long-Term Commitment: Homeownership is a long-term commitment, and buyers should assess whether they are prepared to put down roots in a particular location. Consider your life goals, relationships, and interests. How long do you envision yourself living in this home? Ideally, buyers should plan to stay in the home long enough for property values and equity to grow sufficiently to offset buying and selling costs.

2. Job Security: A mortgage is a significant financial commitment, and job stability is crucial. Buyers should wait until their employment situation is stable before considering homeownership. A job loss shortly after purchasing a home can lead to financial stress and potential difficulties in making mortgage payments.

3. Financial Preparedness: Assess your financial readiness by evaluating three main factors:

• Savings: Determine whether you have enough savings for a down payment, closing costs, and other expenses associated with homeownership. The more you can put down as a down payment, the lower your monthly mortgage payments will be.

• Credit Score: Lenders typically offer the best mortgage rates to borrowers with high credit scores. Evaluate your credit score and work on improving it if necessary

before applying for a mortgage. A higher credit score can result in better loan terms and lower borrowing costs.

• Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): Lenders assess your DTI to determine your ability to repay a mortgage. Aim for a DTI below 36%, although higher ratios may still qualify for a mortgage. Lowering your DTI by reducing debt or increasing income can improve your chances of qualifying for a mortgage with favorable terms.

By carefully considering these factors and ensuring readiness in terms of commitment, job security, and financial preparedness, late homebuyers can make informed decisions and mitigate risks associated with entering the housing market during a period of heightened activity and potential economic uncertainty. Taking the time to assess readiness can help buyers avoid the pitfalls of the past and achieve successful homeownership in the long run.

GLOBAL NEWS

DBM chief calls for collaborative effort to champion women empowerment

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

Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on Wednesday urged government agencies to continue working together in pursuit of gender equality and women empowerment.

During the inaugural gender and development (GAD) conference of the Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG), Pangandaman said the Philippines is making notable strides in advancing women’s rights across various sectors.

Pangandaman, however, said the government still needs to work harder to empower women and make sure that they are given equal opportunities.

“Our commitment to gender equality is reflected in many of our laws which encourage woman’s active participation in society and the protection of their rights,” she said in a speech delivered at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

“While we have achieved substantial milestones in gender and development, we acknowledge that much work still needs to be done. We are fully committed to continuing our efforts, striving to do even better and creating (a) more inclusive and equitable society,” Pangandaman added.

Pangandaman hoped that the GCG’s first GAD forum, which carries the theme, “We GADher Together, We GatHER to Empower,” would

pave the way in identifying concrete actions to drive meaningful change for women.

She said it is the government’s obligation to challenge outdated norms, advocate for justice, and implement innovative solutions to address pressing issues confronting women.

“The dedication to gender equality and inclusive development is admirable and I am honored to be involved in this initiative,” Pangandaman said. “Women empowerment, a subject close to my heart, is crucial in achieving gender equality. It is a vital aspect of building a more prosperous, equitable and sustainable Philippines.”

Pangandaman said collaboration among government agencies is key to creating an environment that fosters equal opportunities for all “where barriers are removed and everyone is empowered to drive”.

She also called on her fellow female workers in government to stand united to achieve equality and justice for all.

“As we reflect on the progress we have made and the challenges that lie ahead, let us continue to support one another for every act of self assertion, we pave the way for the empowerment of women,” Pangandaman said.

“Let us join hands and pledge ourselves to build a future where the promise of equality is not just a lofty ideal but a tangible reality for generations to come,” she added. (MNS)

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman

If you work as a 24-hour live-in caregiver, providing around the clock care and assistance to an individual inside their home, you are most likely entitled to overtime compensation. If you are paid a daily rate or a salary, you must receive hourly overtime compensation in addition to that salary. If you are not receiving overtime compensation, you 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. The lawyers at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson have helped hundreds of caregivers recover the overtime that their employers did not pay them.

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

In home caregivers must also be paid minimum wages. It is our experience that many caregivers receive far less than the minimum wage rate. As of January 1, 2024, the legal minimum wage in California is $16.00 per hour. That also means that most 24-hour and live-in caregivers must be paid a minimum of $504.00 per day to comply with California law. The first 9 hours of work should be paid at the legal minimum wage rate of $16.00 per hour, which equals $144.00. Then, for the remaining 15 hours, the law requires overtime payments at a rate of $24.00 per hour, which amounts to an additional $360.00 per day.

Unfortunately, in actual practice, most caregivers receive far less than the applicable minimum wage, often earning as little as $240 to $300 per day. A 24-hour caregiver who is earning less than $504.00 per day likely has a very valuable claim for wage theft.

For example, if you are a caregiver working 24 hours per day, 5 days per week

for a salary of $1,350 per week (or $270 per day), your weekly unpaid overtime claim is calculated as follows: Your weekly salary of $1,350 is divided by 45 hours to calculate a regular rate of pay, equal to $30.00 per hour. Your overtime rate is 1.5 times your regular rate of pay, which amounts to $45.00 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 $675.00 of unpaid overtime wages. Employers who willfully fail to pay an employee the requisite overtime compensation, may also be subject to liquidated damages, which could add an additional $240.00 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 $3,375 in unpaid overtime wages per week. On a yearly basis, the overtime claim alone exceeds $175,000. 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. Caregivers can also recover after their care recipient has passed away, but must act quickly in these circumstances to file the proper claims with the Probate Court. We have helped many caregivers file claims against their former employers and have extensive experience helping caregivers bring claims against deceased care recipiants. Even if you last worked several years ago, you may 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 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, Kevin Rehwald and Lauren Peterson, employment law attorneys at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson. Our office is located at 32107 Lindero Canyon Rd., Suite 121, Westlake Village, California. We accept cases throughout all of Northern and Southern California. Our examples are of a general nature and are not a guarantee regarding the outcome of your individual matter. The law firm focuses on caregiver rights. Please call us at (818) 807-4168 for a free and confidential consultation. Please visit us at www.caregiverovertime.com/ to learn more about caregiver overtime law.

PCW evaluates anti-VAWC Act implementation

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) is assessing the implementation of Republic Act No. 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) Act.

In a public advisory on Wednesday, the PCW said it is working on the assessment together with the Inter-Agency Council on Violence Against Women and their Children (IACVAWC).

About 20 years ago, the Anti-VAWC Act was signed into law by former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on March 8, 2004.

This was after the harmonization of two bills on domestic violence and abuse against women in intimate partner relationships.

Apart from the IACVAWC, the Act al-

lowed the creation of Committees Against Trafficking and VAWC at the subnational and local level, the establishment of Barangay VAW Desks, Women and Children Protection Desks in police stations, Women and Children Protection Units in DOH-retained hospitals, shelters for women victim-survivors, and other related service institutions.

In the past years, primary prevention programs have been implemented including a response system covering multi-disciplinary teams that address the protective, medical, psycho-social, and legal needs of victims; and hotlines where women victim-survivors could reach out for immediate assistance.

Moreover, standards and protocols for improving service delivery have also

been put in place which contributed to increased help-seeking behavior of women victims as supported by the results of the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey.

“Its enactment is a product of almost a decade of relentless advocacy and lobbying by women advocates, policymakers, other stakeholders, and the women victim-survivors themselves,” the PCW said.

“It is crucial to reflect on whether the law is still responsive to the needs of victim-survivors and the realities of service delivery vis-a-vis the present socio-economic landscape,” it added.

The assessment covers the review of efforts and interventions of duty bearers at the national, subnational, and local levels to draw highlights of accom-

plishments, good practices, challenges, and lessons learned in implementation.

The PCW noted that the findings will not only serve as policy inputs to the proposed amendments to the law, but will also inform the development of the National Action Plan to End VAW (NAPEVAW), especially for the development of stronger measures for prevention, response, monitoring, and evaluation.

“There are still gaps and challenges that must be addressed at the policy and program levels,” it said.

Together with the IACVAWC, the PCW encourages all government partners, the private sector, and the general public to work together to ensure that the rights of women against intimate partner violence are emphasized and protected. (MNS)

DSWD cites short, long-term support for poor girls, women

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippine government, through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), reaffirmed its commitment to uplifting the lives of poor girls and women through various social protection programs.

Speaking at an interactive expert dialogue at the 68th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UN CSW68) in New York on Monday, DSWD Undersecretary Emmeline Aglipay-Villar said the government continues to fund such programs as part of the national strategy to eradicate poverty among women.

“By implementing a spectrum of social protection initiatives, from short to longterm support, the Philippine government effectively addresses the diverse needs of Filipino women and girls living in poverty in line with the Philippines’ strongly held position that women and girls empowerment redound to a stronger, more resilient nation for generations to come,” she said.

Among the initiatives she highlighted were the country’s multisectoral nutrition project and food stamp program to

address hunger.

She also mentioned the Philippine sustainable livelihood program that support women in starting a business to growing it into formal enterprise.

In 2023 alone, she said at least 113,961 women entrepreneurs benefited from incubation services, capacity building, and livelihood grants under the five-year initiative.

The Philippines, she said, also implements the Tara, Basa! (Let’s Read!) program to improve the reading and comprehension of first grade students by employing college students as tutors.

Last year, 17,314 girls and 4,289 female college students benefited from the development program.

On top of these, Villar said the country strengthens its institutions by allocating part of the national budget on gender and development.

Since 1995, the country has been implementing a women’s budget, mandating all government offices to allocate at least five percent of their budget to gender equality measures. (MNS)

at the 68th Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (UN CSW68) in New York on March 18. (Photo courtesy of PCO)

VP Sara advises teacher in viral scolding video to pause if angry

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte Thursday said no penalty shall be imposed against the teacher who went viral for scolding learners live on the video-sharing platform TikTok.

In an ambush interview on the sidelines of engagements in Cambodia as president of the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO), Duterte said she has already read the explanatory statement of the involved teacher.

“Sinabihan ko ang Regional Office natin na (I told our Regional Office that) there will be no penalties for the teacher. Just to remind the teacher that if she’s angry, she has to pause,” she said.

Duterte added that it is normal for individuals to reach tipping point.

However, the teacher could’ve paused and gave the class a break.

“Ang una kong naging reaction is tao lang iyong teacher. Lahat tayo umaabot sa punto na nagagalit tayo, lalo ‘pag nafu-frustrate tayo (My first reaction was, the teacher is just a human being. We all reach our angry point, especially when we get frustrated),” she said.

Duterte, meanwhile, assured that interventions are in place in case a need arises for involved learners.

“Mayroon naman tayong psychosocial support para sa ating mga (We have psychosocial support for our) teachers. We have teachers that are trained for stress debriefing,” she said.

To date, a public school teacher handles an average 25 to 45 learners per class, some 55, Duterte said.

Teachers’ training

Meanwhile, Duterte said the DepEd may adopt Cambodia’s strategy for the capacity and skills improvement of teachers.

“Nakita natin na pwedeng tutukan iyong kanilang teacher training program, reforms na ini-implement (We saw that we can focus on their teacher training programs, [and] reforms being implemented,” she added. She also lauded Cambodia’s efforts in advancing strategies to realize the 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in ensuring access to quality education.

Besides this, the Vice President said she hopes to get the support of Cambodia for the SEAMEO’s priorities, flagship projects, and international partnerships. (MNS)

Seized marijuana kush from Thailand hits over P470-M in last 3 weeks

MANILA (Mabuhay) — With criminals taking advantage of balikbayan (repatriate) boxes sent by Filipino workers abroad, the amount of dried marijuana or kush seized by the government authorities has reached over PHP470 million in the last three weeks.

The Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service-Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP) said the marijuana kush hidden in balikbayan boxes in different shipments come from Thailand where cannabis is legal.

“Legal dun ang marijuana. Madali makabili (Marijuana there (Thailand) is legal. It is easy to buy),” the CIIS said in a statement on Thursday.

Thailand will ban the recreational use of marijuana by the end of the year but its use for medical purposes will continue, Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew told news agency Reuters in a Feb. 29 report.

Thailand was the first country in Southeast Asia to allow medicinal use in 2018, followed by the legalization of recreational use in 2022, resulting in the sprouting of thousands of cannabis shops.

However, the government also realized

how it is being misused and wants to revisit the law.

On March 18, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized six balikbayan boxes containing 132.28 kilograms of kush worth PHP158.7 million.

The shipment was consigned to a certain Mary Gail Quesada and Rainier Quesada via the Marcelo D. Laylo Cargo Forwarders.

Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said the BOC has intensified its campaign against the shipment of illegal drugs.

“Sending balikbayan boxes is the simple tradition of Filipinos of giving gifts to their families and friends, but look how these criminal elements use them to smuggle illegal drugs into our country,” BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said in a previous statement.

He assured that no matter how many times criminals try, BOC will fully utilize its agents and resources to monitor shipment and foil smuggling attempts.

The BOC also intercepted an estimated PHP238.2 million worth of dried marijuana hidden inside 12 balikbayan boxes at the MICP on March 12.

PBBM assured of PSAC commitment to help gov’t hit economic goals

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) on Thursday pledged to continue working with the Marcos administration to help attain its goal of transforming the economy.

PSAC strategic lead convenor and Aboitiz Group president and chief executive officer Sabin Aboitiz made the commitment, as he expressed the council’s full support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s visionary approach to fostering economic growth.

In a statement, Aboitiz lauded Marcos’ strong resolve to attract more investments, enhance the Filipino workers’ skills, and adopt new technologies to spur development in the country.

“I commend President Marcos Jr.’s forward-thinking approach to economic development, as outlined during the World Economic Forum (WEF) on East Asia. His focus on attracting investments, upskilling Filipino workers, and embracing new technologies reflects a strategic vision that resonates with the private sector’s objectives,” he said.

“PSAC will continue to collaborate with the government in driving sustainable growth and prosperity for the Philippines,” Aboitiz added.

Aboitiz also commended Marcos for prioritizing the upskilling and reskilling of the Filipino workforce to meet the demands of the evolving economy.

He said the training programs and technology transfer initiatives undertaken by the government would equip workers with the specialized skills needed to thrive in the global labor market.

“PSAC recognizes the crucial role of

skilled labor in driving economic prosperity and supports initiatives aimed at enhancing the employability and productivity of Filipino workers,” Aboitiz said.

Aboitiz said Marcos’ forward-thinking approach is aligned with the private sector’s objectives to foster an environment conducive to sustainable growth and development.

“PSAC stands ready to collaborate with the government in implementing policies and initiatives that promote investment, innovation, and inclusive economic progress,” he said.

During the recent WEF forum at Malacañan Palace in Manila, Marcos emphasized the importance of strategic investment partnerships between the private and public sectors.

Aboitiz said PSAC supports Marcos in his bid to entice more investments in sectors that yield profitability and contribute to the growth and development of the economy.

He said continued collaboration between the government and the private sector is vital in realizing the full potential of the Philippine economy and ensuring a brighter future for all Filipinos.

“As advocates for sustainable economic progress, we believe that targeted capital investment in emerging sectors such as the digital space, new technologies, and green industries will drive innovation and competitiveness,” he said.

“As the Philippines assumes its role as the strongest-performing Southeast Asian economy in 2024, PSAC remains committed to supporting President Marcos Jr.’s vision for a resilient and prosperous nation,” Aboitiz said. (MNS)

CIIS Director Verne Enciso said the balikbayan boxes consigned to different consignees have undergone 100 percent physical examination where they discovered the illegal drugs.

Five balikbayan boxes found to contain 126 packages of marijuana with a total weight of 65,000 grams with an estimated value of PHP78 million were consigned to Gerard Cruz and Erika Cruz.

Another batch of five balikbayan boxes containing 138 packages of marijuana with an estimated weight of 70,000 grams and worth PHP84 million were consigned to BKKCHCF SHN.

Two balikbayan boxes consigned to Jonathan/Francis Ayala were also found with marijuana with total weight of 63,500 and estimated to be worth around PHP76.2 mil-

lion, concealed in food packages and blankets.

Enciso said the shipment was originally declared as consolidated balikbayan boxes and personal effects from Thailand.

On Feb. 27, the BOC also found approximately 63 kilos of marijuana kush with an estimated value of PHP76 million from Thailand.

Enciso said the consignees, senders and recipients of the balikbayan boxes will possibly face charges in violation of Section 118 (prohibited importation and exportation) and Section 1400 (misdeclaration) in goods declaration in relation to Section 1113 (property subject to seizure and forfeiture) of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act and Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002). (MNS)

DFA: PH eyes ‘balanced, modern’ FTA with EU

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Thursday that the Philippines looks forward to crafting a “balanced and modern” free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) as negotiations for the deal resume soon.

The DFA said the European Commission would be involved in the formal talks for the FTA, which is expected to be held by the third quarter of 2024.

The Philippines and EU’s working level experts concluded a series of stock-taking discussions in Dec. 2023 after the Manila visit of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, when

she and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced their intention to re-launch the FTA negotiations.

“During the visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to Germany and the Czech Republic, the President emphasized the importance of the PH-EU FTA in achieving shared prosperity, stable economic growth and sustainable development not only for the Philippines but also for the Indo-Pacific region,” the DFA said.

“We look forward to further coordination and dialogue with the EU in pursuit of a comprehensive, balanced, and modern FTA.” The first negotiation for

a Philippine-EU FTA was launched in Dec. 2015, with the first round held in May 2016 and the second in Feb. 2017. This was stalled after the EU raised concerns on humanitarian issues in the Philippines.

In announcing the decision to conduct a scoping exercise, the European Commission in 2023 said the EU “aims for a comprehensive FTA that includes ambitious market access commitments, swift and effective sanitary and phytosanitary procedures, as well as the protection of intellectual property rights, including Geographical Indications. (MNS)

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte

PBBM: PH avoiding armed conflict with China, seeking peace in SCS

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippines is keeping the peace with China amid the tensions in the South China Sea (SCS), President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has said, discounting the possibility of waging a war on Beijing.

In an interview with Bloomberg Television’s Haslinda Amin at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday night, Marcos maintained that his administration is not inciting conflict in the SCS.

The President stressed that he is merely defending the Philippine territory, amid China’s incursions in the highly-contested waters.

“The threat has grown, and since the threat has grown, we must do more to defend our territory. And so maybe perhaps that’s what people are seeing — a more robust defense of our territorial rights, as recognized by the international community, through international law, through the UNCLOS (United Nations on the Convention on the Law of the Sea),” he said.

“So, we feel very close to that. We have not instigated any kind of conflict. We have not instigated any kind of confrontation. We are just trying to feed our people. We are just hoping to let our fishermen fish, and to go about our business within our EEZ (exclusive economic zone) and within our baselines,” Marcos added.

Asked about the United States’ (US) readiness to side with the Philippines in case an armed conflict in SCS arises, Marcos said such a scenario is “precisely what we want to avoid.”

Marcos said the Philippines is working with its partners and allies such as the US to prevent the possible escalation of tensions in the disputed waters.

“This is not poking the bear, as it were. We are trying to do quite the opposite. We are trying to keep things at a manageable level, to continue the dialogues, whatever they are, at every level,” he said.

“And we have initiated many of those dialogues. We have dialogues at the sub-ministerial level, at the ministerial level and at the executive level. And so, I think that’s what we hope to continue.”

Marcos also reiterated that he has no plan to invoke the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the US despite the growing tensions in the SCS, saying he thinks about peace “in the national interest.”

He said only “existential threat” could trigger the Philippines to invoke the MDT, adding that the US “has been certainly very supportive in every way.”

He, however, said it is “dangerous” to think about seeking the US’ help, in the event that the situation in the SCS exacerbates.

“That’s an incursion, for example, to occupy, which has already happened. But we’re still trying to keep it peaceful,” Marcos said.

“And the United States has really shown that it takes very seriously these agreements that we have. But it is dangerous for one to think in terms of when something goes wrong, we’ll run to ‘Big Brother.’ That’s not the way we treat it at all. We do this for ourselves. We do this because we feel, that we have to do it. And it’s not at the behest of

the United States,” he added.

Marcos made the remarks before his scheduled trilateral summit with US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Washington on April 11 to discuss the three countries’ agenda to advance their defense, security, and economic interests.

The first-ever

Marcos to OP employees: Be prompt, efficient to improve service to public

work that we do,” President Marcos said during the flag-raising ceremony in Malacañang as the OP celebrates its anniversary.

ordi-

“We are reminded of the fact that the Office of the President is a 127-year old institution. And [it] is important to remember this because we have to, once in a while take a step back, take a breath and remember how important the

“And what a great responsibility has been given us by our people. And it is a responsibility that we must fulfill, it must be a responsibility that we must do so as to make our people proud of us.”

Without OP’s work, the leadership of the entire country will be much weaker, Marcos said, noting today’s policy directions set by the

Just in time for Spring Break this March, one of the largest resort pool complexes at one of the country’s biggest resort/casinos reopens for the season Monday, March 11.

This year, pool-goers everywhere will have access to The Cove’s oasis-like environment that’s the size of five football fields. Pechanga Resort Casino’s Cove management makes day passes, cabana and daybed rentals available for non-hotel guests, as well as to Pechanga hotel, Pechanga RV and Temecula Creek Inn guests.

Day passes are priced at $50 plus tax for non-hotel guests. These are available at The Cove check in area. Cabana and daybed reservations may be made in advance by hotel and non-hotel guests by calling (888) 7324264. Cabana and daybed rental rates vary based on day of the week and availability.

Pechanga Resort Casino’s 4.5acre pool complex, The Cove, equals

office will be felt years after.

That is why OP personnel must do their job absolutely right because the people rely on them realizing the importance of their work, he said.

“Sometimes because of the volume of the work, sa dami ng trabaho ay hindi natin naiisip na— basta trabaho lang. Ngunit ang katotohanan diyan, bawat isang proyekto, bawat isang desisyon, bawat isang implementasyon ng polisiya ay nararamdaman ng

buong Pilipinas,” Marcos said.

“Kaya’t kailangang na kailangan na ipagbuti natin ang ating mga trabaho. Kailangan natin ipagbuti at lagi natin maalala ang ating pagmamahal sa bansang Pilipinas at sa ating mga kapwang Pilipino.”

The OP was established on March 22, 1897, through Administrative Order No. 322, s. 1997, adopting the stand of the National Historical Institute Board.

This was done based on the

in size to five American football fields. Guests can enjoy four pools, two spas, two twisty waterslides, 27 cabanas, six oversized daybeds that skim the main pool, a swim up bar with 18 submerged seats and Baja ledges.

The main pool spans 7,500 square feet and features the swim up bar with bartenders blending up the freshest and sweetest poolside drinks. The Cove’s main pool is a 21 and older area. The family area includes six cabanas around its perimeter and the two twisty waterslides that empty into the deep end of the 4,358 square foot pool.

Many guests rave about The Cove’s food and beverage menu. Specialty cocktails, as well as tried and true favorites are available from The Cove’s two bars – in the lounge or the swim up bar – and from servers throughout the venue. Poolside favorite eats include burgers, fries, nachos, wings, salads, sandwiches and of course, mouthwatering ice cream delights.

position papers submitted by the officials of the Department of History of the University of the Philippines and the Board of National Historical Institute (NHI) after exhaustive deliberations and consultations in 1997.

The board decided that the OP came into being during the Tejeros Convention on March 22, 1897, when General Emilio Aguinaldo was elected president of the Philippine Revolutionary Government. (MNS)

- Non-Hotel Guest day passes - $50

- Pechanga RV and Temecula Creek Inn

guest admission to The Cove - $30 day pass

guests

men’s/women’s locker and changing rooms, the walk-up Coveside Grill restaurant, luxury cabanas with personalized food and drink service, and a 26,140 square foot lush green lawn for private events.

Other important info:

- Pechanga hotel guest admission to The Cove – complimentary

- Cabanas & Daybeds – rate varies based on weekday/weekends and on availability.

For more information on the Cove, visit Pechanga.com/indulge/the-cove or call (951) 770-8457.

About Pechanga Resort Casino

Pechanga Resort Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the country. Voted the best casino in the West by USA Today and rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay. Offering 5,500 of the hottest slots, 152 table games, worldclass entertainment, 1,100 hotel rooms, dining, spa and golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort Casino features an unparalleled in California. Pechanga Resort Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Indians.

For more information, call toll free (877) 711-2946 or visit www.Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort Casino on Facebook, Instagram and on Twitter @PechangaCasino

trilateral summit will be held in the wake of China’s provocative actions in the SCS. (MNS)

President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. said in an interview with Bloomberg Television on Tuesday night that the government is doing everything it can to keep the peace with China amid tensions in the South China Sea. (Photo courtesy of PCO)

MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday reminded the personnel of the Office of the President (OP) on the importance of their work to

nary Filipinos as he called for much improved service to the public.

Saturday-Friday | March 23-29, 2024

Saturday-Friday | March 23 - 29, 2024

16K US, PH troops, support staff to take part in BK 2024

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Some 11,000 American military personnel and their support staff along with 5,000 troops from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will be taking part in this year’s “Balikatan” exercise slated from April 22 to May 8 this year.

“As of (today), the running total that we have as of the moment is 16,000 participants. That means 11,000 US personnel (compared) to 5,000 AFP personnel. It might seem like a disparity pero (but) the 11,000 includes (their) (exercise) support (personnel),” Balikatan 2024 executive agent Col. Michael Logico in a media briefing at AFP headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Wednesday.

These support personnel also include those from the US military’s “self-contained logistics” and also American civilian contractors and members of the US government’s also coming in to witness the Balikatan drills.

Logico said participating US troops are starting to come in and that there will be Balikatan-related activities starting next week.

These activities are so-called humanitarian civic assistance (HCA) related to engineering civic action (ENCAP) projects all over the country.

For this year, Logico said ENCAP projects are to be done in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte; Punta Baja, Rizal Palawan; and San Fernando, La Union.

“(These are) the CMO (civil-military operations) components of the exercise and US military engineers are going to work hand in hand with AFP engineers in setting up school classrooms and health centers,” he added.

These will be funded 100 percent by the US.

On April 1, Logico said an “information warfare exercise” (IWX) will be held at AFP headquarters. IWX refers to the battlespace use and management of information technology “in pursuit of a competitive advantage over an opponent.”

And though it will be held much earlier, Logico said the IWX is still part of this year’s “Balikatan” as to “deconflict that space for other events in ‘Balikatan’.” Large contingent of foreign observers to participate.

As this developed, Logico said 14 countries,

mostly from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), will be sending observers to witness the Filipino and American troops go about this year’s Balikatan.

“Observers we have about 14 countries that are included in the IOP (International Observers Program) most of them from ASEAN but also countries from the region but not from ASEAN like Japan, India,” he said, adding that he will have more detailed list later.

A ‘group sail’ for Balikatan

Aside from the US military, the Australian Defense Force will be sending a 150 contingent while France will be sending a frigate to participate in the “group sail” phase of the Balikatan.

A group sail is defined as a maritime exercise and events that take place are a combination of division tactics, search and rescue, visit, board and search and seizure exercises, gunnery exercises, and flight deck operations.

Logico said the group sail will be taking place on the western side of Palawan and extending beyond the country’s 12 nautical mile limitation (also known as the territorial sea).

“Like I said, in previous exercises we have been limited to just 12 nautical miles, now we are encouraging or we are venturing outwards, beyond that,” he added. Other group

sail participants include the Philippine Navy, US Navy, Philippine Coast Guard, the US Coast Guard, and the French Navy.

Logico said this naval exercise will take place much earlier.

He said around four Filipino ships are expected to participate while those from the foreign navies will be known in the coming weeks.

The Franch Navy, he said, was able to participate as this is already considered “International waters”.

“France’s presence is easily justified, as they are exercising FONOPs (freedom of navigation operations) but they are incorporating themselves into the group sail and then it just so happened that they are performing comms (communications) exercises, division tactics exercises,” he added.

Logico said the group sail will proceed with or without the presence of Chinese ships in the area. And pending a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) with France, the best thing to do and allow French naval participation is to conduct a group sail.

“If you don’t have (SOVFA) that the easiest thing that you can do is to conduct a group sail that is beyond territorial waters, for as long as they are not putting French boots on the ground, (that is permissible),” he added. (MNS)

Gov’t task force: El Niño to affect over 70

provinces in next 3 months

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The number of provinces to be affected by El Niño is expected to rise to over 70 in the next three months despite the reported weakening of the phenomenon.

“Meron pa ring mga probinsiya na maaapektuhan (There are still provinces that will be affected),” Task Force El Niño Spokesperson and Presidential Communications Office Assistant Secretary Joey Villarama said in a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview Wednesday.

“In fact, doon sa projection ng PAGASA ay tataas pa mga to mid70s, mga 76 pa po ang puwedeng maapektuhan na probinsiya in varying degrees in the next three months (In fact, according to PAGASA’s [Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration] projection, the number of affected provinces will increase to the mid-70s, about 76 provinces may be affected in varying degrees in the next three months),” he added.

Currently, 67 provinces across eight regions –Regions 1 (Ilocos Region), 2 (Cagayan Valley), 3 (Central Luzon), 4-A (Calabarzon), 4-B (Mimaropa), 6 (Central Luzon), 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula) and 12 (Soccsksargen)– are being affected by the phenomenon, 30 of which are experiencing drought.

The Department of Agriculture earlier reported that the total damage of El Niño to the agriculture sector has reached PHP1.75 billion.

The weather bureau said El Niño may continue to weaken until the March-April-May season. (MNS)

Solon wants accountability over PCG recruitment of Chinese

MANILA (Mabuhay) — A House leader on Thursday said Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) officials behind the recruitment of Chinese nationals as auxiliary members should face accountability.

Chinese nationals in the PCG undermines the country’s security, especially amid heightened tensions between the Philippines and China in the West Philippine Sea, House Deputy Majority Leader and Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre said in a press conference.

“I’m sure there will be people who should be made accountable. It’s not what we can consider an honest mistake. I’m sure the concealment is something that’s malicious and that is a serious threat to national security,” he said.

The PCG clarified in a House hearing that the Chinese nationals have already been delisted in December 2023 due to lack of national security clearance.

“It has been really alarming that in our

DepEd intensifies vaping ban implementation in schools

itong mga ito sa ating mga mag-aaral (We will work together with each government agency, especially in local government units to ensure that this [vape] will not be available to our learners),” he added.

Galban, meanwhile, warned learners that vaping is highly addictive and may cause low concentration, withdrawal symptoms, and may even affect brain functions.

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Education (DepEd) on Thursday said it has intensified its efforts to end vaping within school premises, including prohibiting the selling and promotion of the product within a school’s 100-meter radius.

In a television interview with People’s Television Network, Education Assistant Secretary Dexter Galban said the DepEd will collaborate with other government agencies to ensure strict compliance with the ban.

“Patuloy po naming pinapalakas ang implementasyon ng aming mga programa. Mula Barkada Kontra Droga na naging Barkada Kontra Bisyo, (We are intensifying the implementation of our programs. From Friends versus Drugs that became Friends versus v Vices), integrating it to our mental health program,” he said.

The programs were launched in adherence to DepEd Order 14 and DepEd Memorandum 111, which prohibits the use of cigarettes and vapes in schools.

“Gumawa rin kami ng task force, na pinangungunahan mismo ng mga kabataan, ng ating mga learners na magiging (We also created a task force, led by the youth, our learners who will serve as) watchdogs,” Galban added.

Among the partner agencies for the campaign are the Department of Health (DOH), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

The DILG and DOH will help cascade policies and awareness campaigns beyond school premises, while the DTI will assist the DepEd stop the sale of vapes, considering its enticing marketing strategy.

“Patuloy pong may lumulusot sapagkat pati ang packaging ng mga vape ay nag-e-evolve din. May mga mukhang USB, ballpen, highlighter at iba pa (Some remain accessible because the vape packaging is also evolving. Some look like a flash drive, ballpen, highlighter, etc.),” Galban said.

“Makikipagtulungan tayo sa kada ahensya ng pamahalaan, lalung-lalo na sa lokal na pamahalaan para masigurado natin na hindi na magiging available

“Napakaraming masamang epekto sa kalusugan ang pagvevape. Lalung-lalo na dahil kalimitan napakataas ng nicotine content nito, dahil dito sobrang nakakaadik, nakaka-engganyo siya (Vapijg has many bad side effects. Especially because oftentimes, it has a very high nicotine content. It’s very addicting, enticing),” he said. He also urged parents and teach-

country’s security forces, even if they say they’re just PCG Auxiliaries, ay napapasukan tayo (they are already infiltrating us),” he said.

“To think, when you are a PCG Auxiliary, you actually wear a uniform, and for the uniform of the PCG to be used -- the agency na involved sa pagprotekta ng West Philippine Sea -- parang double whammy naman tayo doon diba (the agency involved in protecting the West Philippine Sea, it seems like a double whammy, right)?” he said.

Acidre urged the PCG and agencies with similar auxiliary forces to thoroughly vet their recruits and volunteers.

“I call on all the agencies that have auxiliary bodies or institutions like the PCG Auxiliary. I hope they look into the qualifications. I hope that this should be a lesson for us moving forward,” he said. (MNS)

ers to become role models and participate in the DepEd’s awareness campaigns.

In an earlier report, the DepEd said around 6 to 7 percent of Grade 7 to Grade 9 learners have already tried or are using vape.

The Philippine Pediatric Society, likewise, reported that around 11 percent of students aged 10 to 15 have tried vaping as per 2021 data. (MNS)

New procurement law may be ready for signing by PBBM in May

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The proposed New Government Procurement Reform Law may be ready for signing by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in May.

Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. said he met with Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri on Tuesday to discuss the proposed new procurement law.

“Pinag-usapan po namin ni Senate President Migz na maipapasa by May. At siguro po, before SONA (the President’s State of the Nation Address in July), okay na po ‘yung ating (bagong) Procurement Law, (I discussed with Senate President Migz that it will be passed by May. And hopefully, before the President’s SONA in July, we already have a New Procurement Law)” Gonzales said in a press conference at the House of Representatives on Thursday.

The proposed New Government Procurement Act, principally authored by Speaker Martin Romualdez and Gonzales, is one of the priority measures included in the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC).

The House passed House Bill 9648 (HB) on Dec. 12 last year. The Senate opened second-reading deliberations on its version on Monday.

Gonzales noted that the enactment process for the proposed new law could be shortened further if the Senate would just adopt HB 9648, which seeks to repeal and replace Republic Act (RA) 9184, the present procurement statute.

“So, ang gusto ko po sana kung pupuwede, kaming dalawa ni (Budget) Secretary Mena (Amenah Pangan-

daman) at ni Speaker (Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez), gusto namin talaga mapabilis itong (My point is if it’s possible. I and Budget Secretary Pangandaman, and Speaker Romualdezm want to hasten the passage of the) Procurement Act,” he said.

He said in the case of the judiciary, the Supreme Court has “pipeline projects all over the country,” like more courtrooms, but cannot be immediately bid out because RA 9184 has to be amended first.

Among the salient features of the new law is the reduction of the procurement process from 120 days to just 27 days, “starting from the advertisement up to the notice of award, notice to proceed, and signing of contract and (with) one publication only.”

The measure aims to adopt a “single electronic portal” known as the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS) for all procurement activities -- from planning to implementation.

Another salient feature of the proposed new procurement law is the removal of the requirement for the post-qualification of bidders.

On Tuesday, Pangandaman said passing the New Procurement Act would be a “significant step” in promoting transparency and good governance and, at the same time, help government agencies utilize their budget efficiently.

“This is a significant step that will promote transparency, efficiency, and good governance, aligning with President Bongbong Marcos’ vision of Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines),” Pangandaman said in a statement. (MNS)

422 NPA rebels, allies neutralized from Jan. 1 to March 14 — AFP

MANILA (Mabuhay) — A total of 422 New People’s Army (NPA) insurgents and their supporters were neutralized in various operations by military units nationwide from Jan. 1 to March 14, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said.

AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, in a media briefing Wednesday, said the fig-

ure consists of 374 surrendered, 15 arrested, and 33 killed.

Over the same period, 56 NPA lairs were seized and 221 assorted firearms and 71 anti-personnel mines were recovered and surrendered by the rebels to military units, according to the AFP.

In a related development, Padilla said the declaration of Surigao del Norte as an “insurgen-

cy-free province” on March 15 is a “testament to the effective implementation of our campaigns and brings us closer to our target of dismantling the remaining guerilla fronts and vertical units in the region.”

It is also a significant development for the province in terms of peace and development, she added. (MNS)

Education Assistant Secretary Dexter Galban

DILG: Revitalized ‘pulis sa barangay’ to bring gov’t closer to people

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The implementation of the Revitalized Pulis sa Barangay (RPSB) program could greatly help win the trust and bring the government closer to the people, Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary (DILG) Benhur Abalos said.

Abalos made the remark as he visited Barangay Putatan in Muntinlupa City on Wednesday to check on the progress of the implementation of the RPSB, which he described as a good concept because "it humanizes the police.”

Introduced in 2011 and expanded in 2019, the RPSB embodies the PNP’s commitment to community-oriented policing as law enforcers work to ensure safety and security in the barangays where they are assigned.

free theoretical driving course," Abalos said, as quoted in a news release on Thursday. These police officers, he said, also provide home medical assistance and

idents their primary concerns and help them find solutions to their problems.

The mission of the RPSB team encompasses several key objectives, including sustaining progress achieved by government initiatives delivered to the barangays, preventing any potential resurgence of criminal and terrorist groups, and safeguarding the unaffected neighboring communities.

conduct lectures in schools about the DILG's Buhay Ingatan, Droga'y Ayawan (Protect Life, Avoid Drugs) program, and other services.

"Aside from maintaining law and order, community cops also perform other tasks, such as assisting in live birth registrations, and facilitating

PBBM... FROM PAGE 1

House announced that Biden will be hosting the US’ first-ever trilateral summit with the Philippines and Japan on April 11.

The DFA said the trilateral summit aims to advance the three countries’ agenda on defense, security and economic interests.

Abalos pointed out that under the RPSB, police personnel are immersed in the community so they would be able to learn firsthand from the res-

Abalos was joined by Muntinlupa City Mayor Rozzano Rufi no Biazon, PNP Directorate for Police Community Relations Maj. Gen. Edgar Alan Okubo, and DILG Undersecretary Odilon Pasaraba during the visit.

Biazon, meanwhile, thanked Abalos for his visit as he urged his constituents to support the RPSB, which is aligned with the Kapayapaan (Peace) and Kaayusan (Order) components of the 7K agenda of the city government. (MNS)

MURDER... FROM PAGE 1

slain governor's widow, posted on Facebook.

The arrest of Teves was made possible through the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, including the International Police (Interpol) - National Central Bureau (NCB) in Dili, in coordination with the East Timorese Police.

“Today’s (Thursday) apprehension of Teves is a testament to the power of international cooperation,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said in a statement. "It sends a clear message that no terrorist can evade justice and that nations stand united in safeguarding the safety and security of their citizens."

Teves is now under the custody of the Timorese police while his extradition to the Philippines is being worked out by NCB-Dili in coordination with the team from NCB-Manila and Dili Philippine Embassy.

On Feb. 28, the DOJ announced that the Interpol has issued a Red Notice against Teves while a team from the National Bureau of Investigation will be sent to the last known whereabouts of Teves.

Prior to the Red Notice, his regular passport was canceled by a Manila court and his diplomatic passport revoked by Congress as it was valid only within his official leave.

Remulla said Teves must face his long-delayed trial "squarely" without setting any conditions.

He likewise thanked Philippine law enforcement teams and international partners for their relentless efforts in fighting lawlessness to achieving peace.

“The capture of Teves only proves that through concerted efforts and determination, terrorism can be thwarted and peace preserved,” Remulla added.

During Governor Degamo's first death anniversary on March 4, the mayor recalled her husband's devotion to his duty.

“The Summit will be a milestone opportunity to reaffirm the robust alliance between the Philippines and the United States, and the Strategic Partnership which it shares with Japan,” it said.

“Together with President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. and Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, President Marcos

will highlight trilateral cooperation as a natural progression of the Philippines’ historical and strong ties with these countries, thereby enhancing coordination and collaboration on common priority areas,” the DFA added.

The DFA said Marcos is also expected to discuss

with Biden and Kishida a wide range of topics such as maritime cooperation, infrastructure development, economic resiliency, and trade and investments. Clean energy, climate action, cybersecurity and the digital economy would also be on the agenda, the DFA added. (MNS)

"(East) Timor may apprehend Teves. However, they might prefer us to send a team there. Most likely, we will dispatch a team to (East) Timor to execute the warrant," Remulla said then.

A Red Notice is a request to law enforcement worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender or similar legal action.

"Roel was governor not for the power or the title but because he loved his fellow NegOrenses more than life itself. He made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure peace and prosperity in our province and I will do whatever it takes to honor his legacy by bringing lasting peace to our great province. Building a better Negros Oriental will always be my number one priority," she said.

Mayor Degamo will seek the Third District congressional seat in the 2025 polls. It remains vacant after Teves was kicked out in August last year, with House Speake Martin Romualdez serving as caretaker. (MNS)

Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos

Marcos hopes for PH, US success in easing Indo-Pacific tension

MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday expressed optimism that the actions taken by the Philippines and the United States (US) will be successful in lowering the tension in the Indo-Pacific region.

Marcos made the statement during his meeting with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday afternoon.

Marcos thanked Blinken for taking time to visit the Philippines and making a courtesy call, despite the US official’s busy schedule.

“Nonetheless I am happy that [you have] this chance to come by and visit with us and perhaps, it wasn't that ideal with how [things] are progressing with the rest of the world. All of these impact us now, how these things are developing... to any other countries,” he told Blinken.

“I hope that all these efforts we are making are making some success because it is of great importance to us too, as you well know. We have spoken about this before,” Marcos added.

While the recent developments in Indo-Pacific “are somehow toned down,” Marcos said he could not imagine how the easing of tension “[will] be seen in the future."

Marcos did not elaborate on the present challenges the region is currently facing.

Blinken said the US is committed to and focused on dealing with the pressing issues in the Indo-Pacific, adding that its engagement with the Philippines is crucial to work on a number of challenges.

He also emphasized that the alliance be -

LOOKING FROM PAGE 6

“It’s absolute a priority of [US] President [Joe] Biden, that's why he asked me to leave [to] visit [here],” Blinken said. “Our relationship, I would say is hyperdrive. That is so true, we see it across every domain.”

Blinken also expressed confidence that Marcos’ visit to the US on April 11 for a summit with Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will open an opportunity for a new cooperation with the Philippines and Japan.

“I think that will arise new cooperation. It’s also incredibly promising but it’s building on the very strong foundation of our countries where we have the same priorities, whether it’s on economic development, whether its with climate change, with food security, of course, upholding international law,” he said.

The White House announced that Marcos, Biden, and Kishida would hold a trilateral leaders’ summit in the US on April 11 to discuss a broad range of areas, including economic and security cooperation. (MNS)

parent calling us about their elementary school child who was assaulted on campus by another student after being targeted for their sexual orientation, to a transgender woman struggling to remain housed due to a violent neighbor and negligent landlord, to even Senator Weiner being targeted, these incidents highlight the urgent need to not only respond to hate, but ensure it doesn’t happen,” she continued.

“These acts of hate are interconnected — when we see increases in one area, we often see increases across the board, and understandably, people sometimes feel reluctance or distrust in reporting it,” said Becky Monroe, deputy director of strategic initiatives for the California Civil Rights Department.

“This is why it’s so important to encourage people to report or get help through their community organization if they don’t feel safe coming directly to us,” she added. “When it comes to stopping hate, there should be no wrong door.”

This resource is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library in partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.

JESSICA. FROM PAGE 4

David Banes, Community Member*

Denise Ng, Consultant, Asian Food Trade Association*

Dr. Aileen Dinkjian, Parent, Glendale Unified School District*

Dr. Angelica Cortez, Non-profit Leader*

Dr. Gay Yuen, Retired Professor of Education*

Dr. Jason Chiu, CSU Los Angeles, Ethnic Studies Professor*

Dr. Joseph Ruanto-Ramirez, Assistant Professor*

Dr. Juily Phun, CSU Los Angeles, Ethnic Studies Professor*

Dr. Robyn Rodriguez, President, Filipino American Educators Association of California*

Dr. Victor Manalo, Retired CSU Los Angeles Associate Professor*

Ed Lew Edgar Garcia, Arts Administrator*

Edith Winterhalter, CSU Northridge Associate Vice President for Budget & Strategic Business Operations*

Edwin Martinez, Community Leader*

Edwin Saucedo, Former ADEM and DNC

Delegate & Community Leader*

Elana Sadler, Atwater Village Resident*

Emma Perez, Healthcare Administrator*

Evelyn Andamo, Community Leader*

Francis Choi, Attorney & El Sereno Resident*

Fred Rosenthal, Retired Businessman*

Gail Kennard, Small Business Owner, KDG Architecture & Planning*

Glen Dake

Gloria Perlas Pulido, Cerritos Planning Commissioner*

Hans Johnson, LGBTQ+ and Environmental Justice Leader & President, East Area

Progressive Democrats (EAPD)*

Harini Krishnan, South Asians for America (SAFA) National Organizing Chair*

Henry Ngo, Community Member*

Hoang Nguyen, Non-profit Leader*

Ivy Veneracion, Community Member *

Jack Kayajian, Boardmember, Southern California Armenian Democrats*

Jack Sabee-Paulson, Occidental College Student

Jade Leung, Board of Directors, Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California*

Jaime Geaga, LA Central Area Planning Commissioner & PALAD Boardmember*

SI DR. JOSE P. RIZAL. FROM PAGE 3

Dito rin itinayo ang kanyang granite monument noong 1908 hanggang 1913 na may taas na 12.7 metro.

Sa Proclamation No. 299 ng Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos noong 1967 ay nagawang palitan ang pangalang “Luneta Park” sa ngayong Rizal Park. Marami na rin kakikitaang mga pagbabago sa parke.

Noong nagawi kami sa Madrid noong nakaraang taglagas, ang isa sa una naming layunin ay mabisita ang monumento ng ating bayani. Ang memorial na ito ay simbolo ng katatagan, pagmamalaki o pride, at pagiging makabayan sa ating bansang Pilipinas. Pati nga ang ating embahada sa Madrid ay gumawa rin ng isang virtual Walking Tour para sa mga interesadong malaman ang mga bagay hinggil sa monumento at istoryang nakapaloob dito.

Noong 1960s, centennial ng pagka-luwal ni Rizal, maraming bansa ang nagtayo ng kanyang monumento para gunitain ang alaala ng Pambansang Bayani. Pero sa bansang Espanya, mga negatibong sentimyento pa rin ang nanaig sa mga mamayan.

Ang disenyo ng monumento ni Rizal sa Maynila na tinaguriang "Motto Stella" (Latin, na ang ibig sabihin ay "Guiding Star") ni Richard Kissling, isang Swiss sculptor ay inulit sa Madrid. Ang mga bronze statues naman dito ay ginawa ni Florante "Boy" Caedo, isang Filipino sculptor.

Gawa ng bagong pananaw ng mga Espanyol sa ating bayani, noong Disyembre 5, 1996, tuluyang nang pinasiyaan ang monumento na nasa kanto ng malaking Parque de Santander at Avenida de Filipinas. Ang monumento ay mas mataas ng 2.3 metro sa orihinal na nasa Maynila. Sabi nga ng dating Pangulong Gloria Macapagal Arroyo noong naroroon siya, “Kapansin-pansin ang dagdag na taas nito.”

Sa gilid naman ng monumento, mapapansin din ang dalawang brass markers. Sa kaliwa ay ang nakaukit na tula niyang

"Mi Ultimo Adios,” at sa kanan naman ay ang translation sa Tagalog ni Jose Gatmaytan. Ito rin ang nasa orihinal na nakaukit sa monumento sa Maynila. May kakaiba nga lang ang pusisyon ng tanaw ni Rizal: Sa Maynila, si Rizal ay patagilid ang tingin, samantalang dito sa Madrid, diretso and tingin niya sa harap.

Ang kagandahan nga lang nitong nasa Madrid ay walang napakataas na gusaling makikita mo kapag nasa harapan ka ‘di tulad ng monumentong nakikita sa Maynila. Kaya kung may mga selfie o photo ops ka, “nakangiti” baga sa likod ang gusaling bigla na lang umusbong sa likod.

Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi, Gautama Buddha, El Cid, Genghis Khan, Yi Sun-sin, Nelson Madela at iba pa – mga pangalang hanggang ngayon ay ating tinitingala gawa ng kanilang katapangan, kahanga-hangang katangian at positibong kontribusyon sa kanilang bansa. Mga matitinding National Heroes o Pambansang Bayani na may malaking nagawa sa kani-kanilang bansa at tinayuan ng monumento upang maging muog ng magagandang birtud o katangian na ang layunin ay maging huwaran ng bawat mamamayan.

Sa aking pakiwari si Rizal na mayroong rebulto o monumento sa iba’t ibang bansa – itinatayang mga 22 monumento ang naitayo – ay bibihira at kapuri-puri. Ito ay napakalaking karangalan sa Pilipino na makita niya ang monumento ng kanyang minumutyang bayani na nasa iba't ibang siyudad sa mundo tulad nang nasa Madrid, Roma, Tokyo, Sydney, Ontario sa Canada at pati ng nasa Heidelberg at Wilhemfeld sa Germany. Sa Amerika naman ay ang nasa Chicago, Houston, Seattle, Honolulu….at pati na rin dito sa City of Carson, California na may 12 taon lang pinasinayaan.

Si Vics Magsaysay, Ph.D., ay isang fine art nature photographer, writer, artist, workshop facilitator at alternative healer. May doctorate degree siya sa pagiging clinical hypnotherapist. Isa rin kasapi ng Filipino-American Press Club of California (FAPCCA).

Copyright ©2024: Vics Magsaysay

Union (SEIU)*

James Ta’bor, Veteran and Housing Advocate and Eagle Rock Resident*

Janet Nepales, Community Leader*

Jason Paguio, Small Business Leader*

Jennifer Taylor, Small Business Owner, Ambiculture Advisors*

Jessica Gillette, Attorney*

Jesus “Chuy” García, Labor and Workers’ Advocate and Elysian Valley Resident*

Jim Smith, Teamsters Local 396 & Garvanza Resident*

Joan Alexandria Tagle, Community Member & Highland Park Resident*

Joanne Kumamoto, Small Business Owner*

John De La Merced, Philippine American Bar Association (PABA) Past President*

Jonathan Yap, Artist & Entrepreneur*

Jose Chin, Jr., Small Business Owner, Fiesta Fastfood*

Jose Hernandez, Founder & President, IDEATE California*

Joselito Laudencia, Spiritual/Faith Community Leader

Joselyn Geaga-Rosenthal, Friends of Echo Park Library & PALAD Founding President*

Josephine Brosas, Attorney*

Josh De Leon, Vice President of Membership Development, Pilipino American L.A. Democrats (PALAD)*

Joshua Dineros, Director of Communications, California Young Democrats API

Caucus*

Jun Miranda, Restaurant Owner, Kusina

Filipina Los Angeles*

Ken Susilo, President, Asian American Architects & Engineers Association*

Kerry Doi, Non-profit Leader*

Kira Conlon, Highland Park Resident*

Koreen Cea-Heier, Retired LAUSD Teacher & Eagle Rock Resident*

Leanna

Lin Fong, Small Business Owner & Eagle Rock Resident*

Leo Bato, Realtor & Registered Nurse*

Lisa Thong, APIs Mobilize Chair*

Jake Stevens, Commissioner, L.A. City Building & Safety Board & Highland Park Resident*

Linda Johnstone Allen, Artist and Community Leader*

Lois Tryk, Public Education Advocate and Silver Lake Resident*

Luis Lopez, Non-profit Healthcare Director & Democratic Party Delegate*

Luisa Blue, Retired Executive Vice President, Service Employees International

Luz Ferrer, Glendale Resident

Mae Gates, President, Black Women's Democratic Club*

Maeley Tom, Chief Administrative Officer of the State Assembly (ret.)*

Margaret Irwin, ERNC Elder Director

Maggie Darrett-Quiroz, Glassell Park Resident*

Manjusha Kulkarni, Non-profit Leader*

Manuel Magpapian, President, Southern California Armenian Democrats & Glendale Resident*

Marc Caratao, Community Leader*

Marcel Broomall, Community Member*

Margaret Irwin, Elder Director, Eagle Rock Neighborhood Council*

Margaret Valmonte, Eagle Rock Resident*

Marily Mondejar,

Ricky Choi, Past President, Asian Youth Center & Monterey Park Library Board Trustee*

Robert Collins, Attorney*

Rosalie Caratao, President, The LA Philippine Women’s Club & Echo Park Resident*

Rosemary Caratao, Echo Park Resident

Ruben Nepales, Community Leader*

Ruthe Catolico Ashley, Retired Attorney*

Ryyn Schumacher, Public Health Executive*

Saik-Choon Poh, Civil Engineer*

Sam Cornejo, Teamsters Local 396 and East L.A. Resident*

Sandy Roxas, Small Business Owner & Attorney*

Serapia Kim, ADLAC Board Member*

Seymour Amster, Parents, Educators/ Teachers & Students in Action Executive

Director*

Shivam Patel, Boardmember, CADEM AAPI Caucus*

Shona Ganguly, Board President, L.A.

League of Conservation Voters*

Simona Grace, Founder, Moms in Office*

Steve Hirai, Asian American Architects & Engineers Association (AAa/e) Boardmember*

Steve Kang, California Democratic Party

Delegate*

Sylvia Chico, Eagle Rock Resident

Teresa Villegas, Vice President, L.A. City

Public Works Commissioner and Highland Park Resident*

Terry Hair, President, Democrats for Neighborhood Action (DNA) and Echo Park

Resident*

Theresa de Vera, Disability Rights

Advocate*

Noya

Oliver

Pamela Palpallatoc, Attorney*

Paul

Priya Mohan, Attorney*

Rey Dominguez, Elysian Valley Resident*

Reynaldo Ganon, Community Member*

Richard L. Ray, Deaf and Disability Rights Leader and Silver Lake Resident*

Thomas Atkins, Retiree, Veterans Orga-

nization President, & Eagle Rock Resident*

Thien Ho

Tim Sher, President, Asian Food Trade Association*

Vicky Perez, Registered Nurse & Manzanar Committee Board Member*

Victor Chico, Eagle Rock Resident*

Vlad Minasyan, Business Owner & Glendale Resident*

Wyatt Conlon, Highland Park Resident*

Z. Richard Zaldivar, non-profit LGBT-Latino community leader

Zoe Zelenski, LAUSD Student and #KidsforCaloza Chair*

*Titles for identification purposes only

ABOUT JESSICA CALOZA

Jessica Caloza is a women’s rights advocate, immigrant, and daughter of working-class parents running for Assembly to fight for working families. Jessica worked for President Obama helping underfunded public schools get more resources. As L.A. Public Works Commissioner, Jessica expanded good-paying union jobs, raised wages for workers and required equal pay for women while increasing transparency and accountability. As California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s Deputy Chief of Staff, Jessica has worked to reduce crime and gun violence, take bold action to protect the environment, and helped victims of sexual assault receive justice.

In the Assembly, Jessica will fight to defend access to abortion care, protect renters and build more affordable housing, ensure clean air and water for our neighborhoods, and invest in public schools to give every child a shot at success. That’s why Jessica is supported by classroom teachers, nurses, construction workers, and housing and civil rights advocates.

For more information, please visit www.jessicacaloza.com.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed optimism that the actions taken by the Philippines and the United States (US) will be successful in lowering the tension in the Indo-Pacific region during his meeting with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday afternoon. tween the US and the Philippines is “more than rock solid."

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on Sunday cautioned the public on the use of electronic cigarettes amid an upsurge of vaping products with marijuana oil.

The PDEA and other law enforcers confiscated cannabis oil and marijuana kush as well as assorted vaping products worth PHP842,000 in Taguig City on March 14.

Last week, the PDEA and the Bureau of Customs also intercepted 18 boxes containing cannabis oil and marijuana kush hidden inside e-cigarettes worth PHP337 million in Port Area, Manila.

“PDEA warns the public not to patronize marijuana-laced e-cigarettes because of the health hazards involved, and most importantly the law explicitly prohibits it,” the PDEA said in a statement.

“The proliferation of these illicit items can also expose unknowing customers to be addicted to marijuana.”

It said selling and smuggling

of marijuana oil cartridges mean there is growing demand.

“Considering that the vaping culture is predominantly popular among the youth, PDEA is wary that these cannabis extracts can passed off as a legitimate vape aerosol in the market and sold to the younger patrons,” the PDEA said.

The PDEA likewise called for support from other government regulators to tighten the monitoring of the physical and online vape shops selling marijuana-flavored e-cigarettes.

In January, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa called on the Philippine National Police to ensure that teenagers do not have access to vapes.

Republic Act No. 9211 (Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003) and Executive Order No. 106 issued by President Rodrigo R. Duterte prohibit the sale or distribution of tobacco products within 100 meters of schools, public playgrounds, or other facilities where minors may be found. (MNS)

PDEA warns public vs. marijuanaflavored vapes

Be kidney donors, Filipinos urged

MANILA – A group of kidney transplant donors and recipients on Friday urged Filipinos to donate kidneys, saying thousands of patients need them to have a second chance in life.

Kidney Transplant Association of the Philippines (KTAP) assistant auditor Liberty Calla said around 3,000 individuals who have kidney failure need transplantation.

“We we advocate kidney transplantation kasi sa kidney transplantation po doon nagkakaroon ng (because with kidney transplantation there is) quality of life,” she said in a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview aired over PTV-4.

Calla said she received kidney from a deceased donor.

KTAP Liturgy Community chair Abraham Mirandilla received a kidney from a living non-related donor.

“At least 18 years old and above, pwede po mag-donate. Usually, ang kina-campaign talaga ay related, pero dahil sa kulang, minsan hindi naman talaga nagma-match eh, so meron din pong non-related (can

donate, usually related [donors to patients] are campaigned, but there is shortage of donors, sometimes kidneys do not match, so there is also non-related),” he said.

In February, National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) - Human Organ Preservation Effort (HOPE) chief transplant coordinator Peter Paul Plegaria said the NKTI said dialysis patients nationwide are at around 2 million but there are only 260 individuals on the waiting list for organ donation. Plegaria said HOPE visits trauma hospitals in the National Capital Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Region 4-A (Calabarzon) and Southern

Gov’t must set higher vaccination budget for elderly – health expert

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The national government must allocate higher budget for free vaccination of all senior citizens, a health expert said Tuesday. Philippine College of Physicians president Rontgene Solante said in a media forum in Manila that free vaccines for the elderly must not be limited to influenza or pneumonia shots.

“Napaka-importante sa mga policymakers that they have to allocate a higher budget. Siguro we should be looking at that, na hindi lang indigent population, lahat ng elderly population sana mabibigyan ng bakuna (It is very important that policymakers allocate a higher budget. Maybe we should be looking at that, not only the indigent population. All elderly population must be given vaccines),” Solante said.

Under Republic Act No. 9994 or

the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, the Department of Health (DOH) is mandated to administer free vaccination against the influenza virus and pneumococcal disease for indigent senior citizen patients.

Solante cited that vaccines against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) were given to the elderly for free because of the pandemic.

However, the government lacks an exetensive program involving vaccines for pneumonia, flu, respiratory syncytial virus, and shingles.

“Except for 60 years old above na libre ang flu at pneumococcal (who get free flu and pneumococcal shots),” he added.

Meanwhile, Philippine Foundation for Vaccination executive director Dr. Lulu Bravo said the national govern-

ment must address the high cases of dengue and measles which are both vaccine-preventable .

“If the Philippines does not do something and does not intervene, our country will be full of measles and polio. No one will come to the Philippines if you have a lot of dengue, measles, polio, and all the influenza that we have,” she said.

According to the National Immunization Coverage 2022 data, the Philippines is one of the top five countries with the most number of zero-dose children globally in East Asia and the Pacific Region.

In August last year, the DOH launched its program to immunize 95 percent of Filipino children against vaccine-preventable diseases like polio, measles and rubella. (MNS)

Luzon to look for potential donors of kidneys and other viable organs such as the heart, lungs, liver, corneas, and bones.

“Sa HOPE po namimigay kami ng organ donor card sa mga binibisita naming schools, opisina at saka sa driver’s license po natin, nandoon po ‘yung for donation, may che-check (At hope we distribute organ donor card to schools, offices we visit, and in our driver’s license, for donation is mentioned, you just have to check) if you want to donate,” Calla said.

Apart from organ donation, the KTAP also advocates for kidney disease awareness and prevention since 1986. (PNA)

PDL entitled to humane treatment, health services – DOJ

MANILA

Monday

its commitment for the well-being of persons deprived of liberty (PDL) during a medical mission at the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City.

DOJ Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez said the activity undertaken with partners in the private sector was conceived in connection with the Marcos administration’s commitment to human rights protection.

“We, at the DOJ, believe that these PDL are not bad people. They are people who just made bad decisions in life. They are entitled to humane treatment and services with which they can reform and rejoin our communities as productive members,” Gutierrez said in her message.

“Rest assured that the DOJ, through the guidance of President (Ferdinand R.) Marcos (Jr.) and the able stewardship of (DOJ) Secretary (Jesus Crispin) Remulla, will continue to put primacy to the protection and promotion of PDL rights,” she added.

The medical mission at the CIW maximum security camp provided inmates with free consultations, screenings, and access to medical professionals.

With the theme, “Empowering Women Behind Bars: Providing Compassionate Care and Support,” the activity coincides with the celebration of National Women’s Month.

“This initiative goes beyond just providing healthcare. It promotes and restores the dignity of women behind bars. Justice can be delivered in the health and well-being of those in the walls of prison, as well,” Remulla said. (MNS)

(Mabuhay) — The Department of Justice (DOJ) on

reiterated

Business

PBBM says 8% economic growth target within his term ‘doable’

MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has expressed confidence that attaining the economic growth target of 8 percent during his term is within his administration’s reach.

“Sure. Why not? You know, we plan. We always plan for the ideal. We don’t plan for a mediocre result. We plan for a very good result,” Marcos said in an interview with Bloomberg Television’s Haslinda Amin at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday night, when asked if he thinks his administration can achieve the 8-percent economic growth target under his watch.

“And as I said, we just have to adjust along the way, as we continue to transform the economy. But, yes, I think it is, I think it is doable,” he added.

Marcos said he is also optimistic that the government would reach its goal of hitting a 6.5 to 7.5-percent growth target for 2024.

He said the government is implementing policies aimed at propelling economic growth and addressing the impacts of economic shocks of the coronavirus pandemic on the country.

“Much of the policies that we’ve taken on are really to spur growth. That’s part of the most, that’s the most important part, because it is only growth that will pull us out of this —the morass that was left after the pandemic,” Marcos said.

“That seems to be the key. Is it sustainable if we continue down this road, if we defend all of the things that

we are doing? I believe it is. I believe it is, if we are also agile in terms of responding to the shock that come(s) from the outside.”

The inter-agency Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) earlier announced that it aims to achieve an economic growth of 6.5 percent to 8 percent from 2025 to 2028.

The DBCC also set a 6.5 percent to 7.5-percent target for this year.

Peso gain ‘a good indication’

Marcos also said the peso climbing to a three-month high against the dollar is a “good” indication that the Philippine economy is getting more robust.

“It’s an indication of the strength of the economy. There is a downside to it for the Philippines because of our overseas workers where the dollar is worth a little less than it normally would be. But I see it as an affirmation that the economy has grown stronger, and that is, that’s one of those obvious tests,” he said.

“And the dollar, I mean, of course, because it’s a relative, it’s a relative measure, the dollar has not depreciated. So if the value of the peso is increasing, then that is a good indication that, again, the economy has gained strength,” Marcos added.

Data from Bankers Association of the Philippines data showed that the local unit closed at PHP55.31 per dollar on March 12, strengthening by

Following

six centavos from its PHP55.37 finish on March 11, the peso’s strongest close in over three months or since its PHP55.30per-dollar finish on Dec. 7, 2023.

Cut rate not yet feasible Marcos, however, said cutting interest rates could not be done for now, citing that the country continues to deal with inflation.

He said shocks “keep coming in” because core inflation has an impact on the prices of basic commodities, particularly agricultural products.

“We’re still battling inflation. Inflation is still our biggest problem,” Marcos said. “Perhaps we look at it almost every week to see if it’s time to bring down the rates. We are not yet there.” (MNS)

Senate OKs creation of Bulacan Special Economic Zone, Freeport

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Voting 22 against zero with no abstention, the Senate on Monday approved on third and final reading Senate Bill No. 2572 or the Bulacan Airport City Special Economic Zone and Freeport Act.

Senator Grace Poe, who sponsored the measure, is hopeful that the country is poised to obtain significant economic growth with the timely approval of the measure alongside the recent signing of the concession agreement for the rehabilitation of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

“It brought about a lot of hope because I feel now the gateway of many of our visitors to our country will be much improved,” Poe, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Public Services, said.

“In the same way, I have high hopes for this Ecozone, that it will spur investments, create more jobs, and will be a model, not just here in the Philippines, but all over Asia that could hopefully increase our GDP (Gross Domestic Product),” Poe added.

The creation of Bulacan Ecozone or BuZ stands to generate up to 1.2 million jobs and bring in around

Real property valuation reform bill now up for PBBM’s signature

MANILA (Mabuhay) — A priority bill reforming the property valuation and assessment in the country is awaiting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s signature to become a law following its ratification by Congress.

During the plenary session on Wednesday, the House of Representatives ratified the bicameral conference committee report on the disagreeing provisions of House Bill (HB) No. 6558 and Senate Bill (SB) No. 2386, otherwise known as the proposed Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act (RPVARA).

The Senate has already ratified the final version of the bill on Tuesday.

Once enacted into law, it would hasten the automation of services provided by local government units, which in turn would enhance the efficiency of tax collection and improve the delivery of services.

PHP37.84 billion to PHP130.9 billion worth of investments, said Senator Joel Villanueva, co-sponsor of the bill.

“Sa atin pong co-sponsorship speech para sa panukalang ito, atin pong ibinahagi ang ating paniniwala na marami pang maihahandog at napakalaki pa ang potensyal ng lalawigan ng Bulacan upang higit pang makapag-ambag sa ating pambansang kaunlaran (In our co-sponsorship speech for this measure, we shared our belief that Bulacan has a big potential and more to offer in contributing to our national development). The passage of this measure is a step towards achieving this hope and vision,” Villanueva said.

Both Poe and Villanueva assured that the measure has enough safeguards to guarantee that the creation and operations of the BuZ will be within the framework of the Constitution, the Local Government Code, and national development plans, policies, and goals.

Under the bill, the Bulacan Special Economic Zone and Freeport Authority would be created to manage and operate the Bulacan Ecozone. (MNS) Senator

This includes the creation of a Real Property Information System which will maintain an up-to-date electronic database of the sale, exchange, lease, mortgage, donation, transfer, and all other real property transactions and declarations in the country.

The measure seeks to implement uniform valuation standards for real property assets to promote transparency and enhance investor confidence.

Real property tax includes Special Education Fund, Idle Land Tax, and other special levy taxes which can all be imposed by a local government unit under the Local Government Code.

The measure shall also reorganize the Bureau of Local Government Finance under the Department of Finance and establish the Real Property Valuation Service. (MNS)

FDA working with BIR to bring down prices of medicine for senior citizens

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently working with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to bring down prices of medicine for senior citizens through exemption of Value Added Tax (VAT) in selected essential medicines.

FDA Director General Samuel Zacate said the exemption of VAT coverage is through a law known as Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) or Republic Act (RA) No. 11534.

“Basically, the exemption for VAT is through a law – iyong CREATE Law. So, those medicines have been declared by the FDA, endorsed to the BIR para matanggal or mawala iyong kanilang VAT,” Zacate said in a news forum in Quezon City.

RA 11534 provides VAT exemption to certain medicines for hypertension,

cancer, mental illnesses, tuberculosis, kidney diseases, diabetes, high cholesterol, as well as COVID-19 drugs and medical devices.

Pursuant to the CREATE law, Zacate said the FDA is directed to identify and transmit their list of approved medicines for VAT exemption to other implementing agencies such as BIR.

“Basically…we only endorse it to the BIR kasi kami po iyong nagdi-determine kung ano, para saan talaga iyong gamot. So, FDA ang magsasabi, kung papaano iyong mekanismo, kung paano tatanggalin iyong gamot. So, it’s a joint process po of the FDA and the BIR,” he said.

Last month, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered the FDA to implement a 20 percent discount and VAT exemption for senior citizens under RA 9994 or Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010. (MNS)

his keynote message at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Country Roundtable on the Philippines, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. engages in a question and answer with the participants at the Kalayaan Hall, Malacañan Palace on March 19, 2024. Marcos Jr. earlier received the World Economic Forum (WEF) officials led by Borge Brende (WEF President), Joo-Ok Lee (Head of Regional Agenda, Asia-Pacific) and Miranda Andruccioli (Community Specialist, Regional and Global Cooperation, Asia-Pacific) in a courtesy call at the Kalayaan Hall in Malacañan Palace.

Grace Poe

MANILA (Mabuhay)

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday touted the “exciting new phase” in the Philippine economy as he invited foreign business leaders to consider investing in the country.

Addressing global business leaders and decision makers who flew all the way to Manila to participate in the World Economic Forum (WEF) Country Roundtable on the Philippines, Marcos highlighted the stellar growth performance of the Philippine economy in 2023 “against great odds.”

“In 2023, the Philippines capped the year off with the highest GDP (gross domestic product) growth in all of ASEAN, including China – meeting or even exceeding the expectations of major multilateral organizations such as the IMF, ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office and World Bank…. It comes as no surprise that investments, particularly in durable equipment and public construction, emerged as a key driver of our fullyear growth,” he said.

Marcos then cited the administration’s 185 flagship infrastructure projects amounting to over PHP9 trillion or about $163 billion targeting strategically important sectors such as sustainable development, physical and digital connectivity, agriculture, energy, health, and climate-resilient infrastructure.

“As of today, more than half of these projects are either already ongoing or approved for implementation, while around a quarter are seen to be financed through the public-private partnership (PPP) mechanism,” he added.

Marcos also cited key regulatory reforms the government has enforced to provide “a stable and an enabling environment” for public–private partnership (PPP) investments, such as the revisions in the Build-Operate-Transfer Law, signing of the landmark PPP (Public-Private Partnership) Code and various economic liberalization measures including the newly established Green Lanes for Strategic Investments, the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises or CREATE ACT, and the Maharlika Investment Fund.

The Chief Executive capped off his message by extending an invitation to the WEF participants to join one of the world’s fastest-growing economies as it enters a sustained period of robust economic expansion over the coming years by forging new and stronger partnerships with both the public and private sectors.

“Clearly, the Philippines is in a

prime position to enter into a sustained period of robust economic expansion over the next couple of years,” Marcos said.

“I extend an invitation to our partners and guests who are here today, to join us in this exciting new phase,” he added.

‘PBBM puts PH on world stage’

Meanwhile, WEF President Børge Brende said Marcos’ participation in the annual WEF meeting in Switzerland in January last year created a lot of interest and optimism in the Philippines, with numerous companies wanting to know more about its investment prospects.

“There is a lot of optimism in the Philippines but also around the Philippines globally. We had a dialogue there and it was very, very well-received and a lot of companies that are partners with the World Economic Forum said that they would like to have a roundtable, to meet with the Filipino secretaries, [and] also to meet with President Marcos,” Brende said in a press conference in Malacañang.

According to Brende, the Philippines could remain bullish if it continues its current policy reforms, upgrade infrastructure, as well as invest in renewables and other areas.

“I think that this can be in the coming decade, USD2 trillion economy if there are foreign investments in education, in infrastructure, and also able to draw on the great [competence] of the people of the Philippines,” he said.

In other development, the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) lauded the efforts of the Marcos government in promoting the country to foreign investors.

“I have been with the President in his two trips abroad China and Malaysia. The President is working hard to promote the Philippines and he is inviting investors to come in,” FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro said in a media forum in Manila on Tuesday.

“‘Yan ang legacy na gusto nya ma-establish (That’s the legacy he wanted to establish) over his term -- to bring in more people to help this country move forward and I give it to him,” he added.

He said the foreign trips of the President are good for the country as he enticed more foreign investors to come in to create more jobs.

“How many Presidents are traveling like him? Everywhere he goes, he brings in investments,” Pedro said. (MNS)

RE investments hike Aboitiz Group’s capex to PHP153-B

The Aboitiz Group confirmed Thursday earlier reports that it earmarked PHP153 billion as this year’s capex, allotting a big chunk to RE projects in the pipeline.

“Our substantial increase in capital expenditures is a clear reflection of our commitment to renewable energy. We believe that investing in sustainable energy sources is not just good for the environment, but also makes good business sense,” Aboitiz Group president and chief executive officer Sabin Aboitiz said.

Its energy unit Aboitiz Power Corp. is allocated PHP73 billion, or 48 percent of the group’s spending this year.

“The company has over 1,000 megawatts (MW) of disclosed RE projects in construction and development en route to hitting a target of 4,600 MW within the next decade,” the Aboitiz Group said.

For this year, it targets to break ground on various RE projects, such as the 89-MW peak Solar Project in San Manuel, Pangasinan, and a 50MW wind plant in Camarines Sur in partnership with other energy companies.

SMC’s Ramon Ang thanks PBBM for reinvigorating PH energy sector

Corp.’s president and CEO Ramon Ang lauded President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday for his efforts to reinvigorate the country’s energy sector, which he said was a trailblazer from the 1960s to the 1980s.

During the question-and-answer session of the World Economic Forum (WEF) on East Asia in Malacanang Tuesday, Ang told the guests that the Philippines is one of the pioneers in developing geothermal power in the region.

The Philippines built its first geothermal power in 1977, and today its geothermal is producing 2,000 megawatts. The country is also one of the first in Asia to build a nuclear power plant in 1976 and also, operated or discovered the Malampaya natural gas field and solar power early on in the 1980s.

“So, Philippines–by the way also solar–I was talking to my colleague. Solar was first built in the Philippines in 1980. We’re ahead of everybody in Asia. So, Philippines is very, very advanced during the 60s, 70s, and 80s,” Ang told the forum participants.

“And the unfortunate event of military takeover stopped everything and now we are trying to catch up, thanks to our beloved President, thank you po.”

The Philippines, comparing its actual power and fuel cost with other countries, has the lowest in Asia except for the Philippine government’s imposition of excise tax and VAT while all other countries around the region subsidize their fuel and power, he said.

Malaysia, for example, grants subsidies totaling US$20 billion a year, while the Philippines allows the market forces to take charge, Ang pointed out.

Its holding company Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) is getting PHP44 billion, or 29 percent of this year’s capex for the acquisition of Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc. (CCBPI), the bottling arm of Coca-Cola in the country. Aboitiz InfraCapital will be spending PHP25 billion this year “to strengthen and optimize existing assets while sustaining its growth by exploring new projects and synergies within the Group.”

“Another PHP1 billion is allotted for major maintenance works and the purchase of critical spares of the Group’s cement business under Republic Cement,” it added.

Pilmico and Gold Coin Group, for its agribusiness expansion projects, is allocated nearly PHP4 billion this year. Aboitiz Land, on the other hand, set a capex of PHP3.3 billion to support its ongoing projects

The company did not disclose the amount of Union Bank of the Philippines’ (UBP) capex this year, but it said most of the allocation would be spent on UBP’s technology refresh, cybersecurity, and system integration.

“As a techglomerate, we intend to redefine the meaning of industry and community in the digital age,” Aboitiz added. (PNA)

The SMC chief also countered the notion that the Philippines is not competitive because of its high power and fuel prices. Ang explained the rates are high because of the taxes imposed by the government while other Asian countries’ energy sectors are subsidized.

President Marcos, for his part, expressed gratitude to Ang for SMC’s participation in infrastructure and energy development in the country, particularly its recent venture to rehabilitate the Manila International Airport. “The SMC has become –we just signed with them. We formed a consortium to improve our airport, which has been adjudged as being one of the worst airports for many years. So, we are about to change that,” said the President, stressing its importance on connectivity and tourism sector.” (MNS)

Marcos signs PH Salt Industry Development Act

MANILA (Mabuhay)

— In line with the government’s push to spur rural development and achieve salt self-sufficiency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed into law a measure strengthening and revitalizing the Philippine salt industry.

The 23-page law, now known as Republic Act (RA) 11985 or the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act, was signed by President Marcos on March 11.

The new law provides that appropriate technology and research, and adequate financial, production, marketing and other support services will be provided to salt farmers to revitalize the salt industry, attain increased production, achieve salt-sufficiency and become a next exporter of salt.

RA 11985 also mandates the establishment of a five-year roadmap aimed at revitalizing and modernizing the salt industry, which are aligned with the objectives and continued im-

plementation of RA 8172, or An Act for Salt Iodization Nationwide.

A Salt Council will be created to ensure the unified and integrated implementation of the salt roadmap and accelerate the modernization and industrialization of the Philippine salt industry.

The council will be chaired by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Trade and Industry.

Meanwhile, representatives from the cooperatives will be chosen by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources from five nominees from Luzon, and three from the Visayas and Mindanao.

The Philippine Salt Industry Development Act was listed as a priority measure by the President through the Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council. It will take effect 15 days after its complete publication in the Official Gazette, or in two

MANILA – The Aboitiz Group is investing big in renewable energy (RE) projects this year, hiking the company’s capital expenditure (capex) to PHP153 billion, or more than double last year’s PHP65 billion.

MANILA (Mabuhay) — San Miguel

San Miguel Corp.’s president and CEO Ramon Ang

—

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

'It's Showtime' to air on GMA from April 6

MANILA (Mabuhay) — ABS-CBN noontime show "It's Showtime" is set to air on GMA from April 6, the networks announced Wednesday.

Top executives of the two networks sealed the partnership at a contract signing ceremony held at the GMA studios, attended by "It's Showtime" hosts.

GMA Network was represented by Chairman Atty. Felipe Gozon, President and CEO Gilberto Duavit, Jr., Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Felipe Yalong, and Senior Vice President for Programming, Talent Management, Worldwide, and Support Group and GMA Films President and CEO Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes.

ABS-CBN was represented by Chairman Mark Lopez, President and CEO Carlo Katigbak, Chief Operating Officer Cory Vidanes, and Group Chief Financial Officer Rick Tan.

GMA Network said “It’s Showtime” was a welcome addition to its list of program offerings for Kapuso viewers.

ABS-CBN and “It’s Showtime,” meanwhile, thanked GMA for providing a new platform to bring entertainment and happiness to more viewers.

"We thank our loyal viewers for their unwavering support for almost 15 years and look forward to connecting with new audiences as 'It’s Showtime' embarks on a new journey in creating more unforgettable FUNanghalian moments together on GMA, GTV, GMA Pinoy TV, and all other platforms it is currently seen," ABS-CBN and GMA said in a joint statement.

Before the partnership, "It's Showtime" aired on GMAowned GTV (Good Television) since July 2023.

Now on its 14th year, “It’s Showtime” is hosted by Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Vhong Navarro, Jhong Hilario, Kim Chiu, Ogie Alcasid, Karylle, Amy Perez, Teddy Corpuz, Jugs Jugueta, Ryan Bang, Ion Perez, Jackie Gonzaga, MC, Lassy, and Cianne Dominguez.

The program’s current segments include singing competition “Tawag ng Tanghalan Kids”, “Karaokids,” and the dating show “Expecially For You.” (MNS)

Heart Evangelista says she misses acting: 'I have a few stories'

IsHeart Evangelista about to make her acting comeback soon?

The Global Fashion Icon said that she misses acting. “I have a really good relationship with my family sa GMA and we’re very, very picky kami kung ano ba ang puwedeng storyline,” Heart said.

She continued, “I have a few stories that I personally want to work on. Nakaka-miss din naman talaga.”

In August last year, Heart renewed her contract with Sparkle GMA Artist Center.

Sparkle Vice President Joy Marcelo said they are hoping to give Heart something that she really wants to do.

"Baka naman puwede tayong gumawa ng lifestyle show for Heart, so feeling ko 'yun ang bagay and 'yun 'yung siguro hinihintay din ng mga tao," she said.

Heart last starred in the 2021 primetime series "I Left My Heart in Sorsogon," where she played a fashion designer.

She recently appeared in the international fi lm "The Wedding Hustler" and the Netflix reality show "Bling Empire." (MNS)

Dingdong Dantes-Charo Santos movie to start filming April

MANILA (Mabuhay) — After his mega-blockbuster movie “Rewind,” Dingdong Dantes will be back soon on the big screen as his follow-up project is set to grind soon.

His next movie will be with former ABS-CBN president Charo Santos with the working title “Love after Love.”

During the 50th anniversary press conference of Mowelfund, Dantes shared a few things about his upcoming movie.

“The script, sumailalim sa maraming revisions. I think sakto lang 'yung panahon ngayon at magagawa na namin siya,” he said.

As far as Dantes can recall, the movie was pitched to them before the pandemic lockdown. “Mula nang umpisa naman,

nung na-conceptualize 'yung project, 'yun na talaga. Kami na talaga 'yung team. Walang ibang casting. It was really written with us in mind. Me-

dyo na-stall lang ng konti 'coz the script had to go thrpugh revisions, konting pagbabago, ready’ng ready na siya.”

Based on the working title

alone, the project suggests romance and drama, but Dantes refused to defi ne the genre of his upcoming project. “Hard to say kasi yun din ang intention ng pelikula eh. Hindi magbigay ng isang genre. So, abangan niyo na lang,” he said.

Will this be another Metro Manila Film Festova; entry for Dantes this year? He replied: “Kahit nung ginawa namin siya dati, hindi naman siya talaga intended for fi lm fest. But of course, lahat ng mga bagay hindi natin... wala sa ating mga kamay 'yan. Ang mahalaga is makagawa tayo ng mga creative and compelling stories.”

“Love after Love” was written and will be directed by Irene Villamor. Shooting starts at the end of April. (MNS)

Sarah Geronimo says husband Matteo Guidicelli is very protective of her

The multi-hyphenate artist said Matteo does everything she could ask from a husband, but what she appreciates the most is his empathy and protectiveness.

"He would cook for me, inaalgaan niya ako, pero nakita ko na ang ganda ng puso ng asawa ko ay 'yung talagang 'pag nakikita niyang nasasaktan ako, nasasaktan din siya," she said.

"Very protective siya," she added.

Last month, Sarah and Matteo celebrated their fourth wedding anniversary.

The couple, who has been together for almost 10 years, got married in February 2020. Their wedding was controversial after Sarah's mom reportedly arrived unexpectedly and was enraged at the event.

In 2023, Matteo said that he is ready to become a father and that spending the rest of his life with Sarah is his ultimate goal.

The couple recently appeared together at Uniqlo's Spring Summer 2024 collection launch, and Sarah couldn't help but say, "Ang guwapo mo, mahal" while looking at her husband.

Matteo currently stars in "Black Rider" and is also a mainstay in "Unang Hirit." (MNS)

Jasmine Curtis-Smith says earnings from drama series will go to future biz in La Union

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Aside from being an award-winning actress, Jasmine Curtis-Smith is also a co-owner of several bars in La Union.

The Kapuso actress said she recently purchased a commercial lot in the Surfing Capital of the Philippines for another potential business soon.

"I'm trying [to find] business idea and concept na p'wedeng i-develop for that," she said. “And ayun, ipon mode.”

Jasmine is the co-owner of Funky Quarters, Hyde's Bar, and Boti Costel in La Union.

According to the actress, her next business concept in the surfing destination would cater to those who want to relax on the beach instead of partying, and her goal is to build it in the next five to 10 years.

Days,

Jasmine stars in the fi lm "3 Days, 2 Nights in Poblacion," which is now showing in Philippine cinemas She also previously starred in the film "In My Mother's Skin," an entry to the Sundance Film Festival

will

“Lahat ng ‘Asawa ng Asawa Ko’ ipon will go towards that,” she added. "So, I'm really hoping I fi nd good business partners and

VICE GANDA

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Sarah Geronimo is in awe of her husband, Matteo Guidicelli, for being a protective partner.

HEART EVANGELISTA

DINGDONG DANTES

CHARO SANTOS

MATTEO GUIDICELLI AND SARAH GERONIMO

Kim Chiu gets real about matters of the heart: 'It's a little empty'

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Kim Chiu just shared how she is doing three months after she and Xian Lim announced their split.

In Vicki Belo's latest vlog, Kim sat down with the celebrity doctor to talk about her personal life, saying it was the first time she allowed someone to interview her.

Right off the bat, Vicki asked Kim, "Kamusta ang puso?" To this, the actress answered, "It's a little empty," followed by a laugh.

“Ang puso, it’s a little empty, pero okay naman,” she said. "It's part of life, and it's part of growing up."

According to Kim, she and Xian mutually decided "to move on" with their lives, after being in a 12-year relationship.

“Medyo mahirap siya, and you just have to accept siguro ‘yung mga bagay na wala ka nang control,” she said.

In December, Kim and Xian confirmed their breakup in separate posts on Instagram.

Kim is the newest face of Belo's slimming technology, V-Contour Ultra, a non-invasive treatment to sculpt and define the face and body. (MNS)

New episodes every Mon, Tue, and Wed

KIM AND PAULO’S “WHAT’S WRONG WITH SECRETARY KIM” TO STREAM VIA iWantTFC IN THE U.S. AND CANADA

Filipinos based in the United States and Canada can now watch the Philippine adaptation of “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” as the ABS-CBN and Viu co-production series is now available for streaming on iWantTFC, the home of Filipino stories, in the two territories starting last March 18.

During the pilot week, the fi rst fi ve episodes of the romantic-comedy series are made available on March 18 as a special treat to standard and premium subscribers of the platform. Succeeding episodes will drop every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday beginning March 25.

“What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” follows the story of Secretary Kim (Kim Chiu), a highly-qualified secretary, and her narcissistic boss, Brandon Manansala Castillo or BMC (Paulo Avelino). When Secretary Kim resigns from her position, a romantic push and pull between the two happens as they start catching feelings for each other.

The series, directed by Chad V. Vidanes, also stars

Jake Cuenca, Janice De Belen, Romnick Sarmenta, Angeline Quinto, Pepe Herrera, Franco Laurel, JC Alcantara, Kaori Oinuma, Gillian Vicencio, Yves Flores, Cai Cortez, Phi Palmos, Kat Galang, and Brian Sy, with the special participation of Korean actor, Kim Won Shik.

To sign up for an account, visit the discover page of iWantTFC. Catch all your favorite Filipino content via the iWantTFC app (iOS and Android) and on its website (iwanttfc. com).

For more details, follow iWantTFC on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube.

For other updates, follow @ABSCBNPR on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and Threads, or visit www. abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

Alden Richards says he wants to direct Heart Evangelista in a movie

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Aside from being an actor, Alden Richards has also tried his hand at directing and producing a movie. When asked which actor he would like to direct, Alden answered: Heart Evangelista.

"I've never worked with Heart on any project," Alden said.

According to Asia's Multimedia Star, since he hasn't worked with Heart yet, it would be "fun" to co-star with her and direct her in a movie.

Alden also said that he wants

to direct Heart in a movie that is something out of her comfort zone and her glamorous image.

"There's glitz and glam already.

DISNEY+ DEBUTS FIRST TRAILER

& KEY

That's her image, I wanna see her something out of her shell, something out of her comfort zone," he said.

In November, the Kapuso actor said that he is set to star in, produce, and direct an upcoming project, which, according to him, is something he has dreamt of doing.

He previously posted a photo of him on Instagram holding a professional camera, giving his followers a glimpse of himself in his fi rst directorial job.

He also shared a photo of three folders that had "Producer Alden Richards," "Alden Richards as Alex Roman Director," and "Mr. Alden Richards as Director," on them.

Alden recently starred in the blockbuster movie "Five Breakups and a Romance" with Julia Montes and in the 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival movie "Family of Two (A Mother and Son Story)," with Sharon Cuneta. (MNS)

ART FOR “STAR WARS: THE ACOLYTE”

Lucas lm’s Original Live-Action Series Premieres June 4 with First Two Episodes

Today, Disney+ debuted the first trailer and key art for Lucasfilm’s new, original series “Star Wars: The Acolyte.” The thrilling, live-action series launches on Tuesday, June 4, with the first two episodes, exclusively on Disney+.

In “Star Wars: The Acolyte,” an investigation into a shocking crime spree pits a respected Jedi Master (Lee Jung-jae) against a dangerous warrior from his past (Amandla Stenberg). As more clues emerge, they travel down a dark path where sinister forces reveal all is not what it seems….

The series stars Amandla Stenberg, Lee Jung-jae, Manny Jacinto, Dafne Keen, Charlie Barnett, Jodie Turner-Smith, Rebecca Henderson, Dean-Charles Chapman, Joonas Suotamo, and Carrie-Anne Moss.

Leslye Headland created the series, based on Star Wars by George Lucas, and serves as an executive producer along with Kathleen Kennedy, Simon Emanuel, Jeff F. King and Jason Micallef. Charmaine DeGraté and Kor Adana are the co-executive producers.

Rayne Roberts, Damian Anderson, Eileen Shim and Rob Bredow are the producers.

Headland also directed the premiere episodes (Eps. 101 & 102). Directors Kogonada

(Eps. 103 & 107), Alex Garcia

Lopez (Eps. 104 & 105) and Hanelle Culpepper (Eps. 106 & 108) round out the directing duties on the series.

Award-winning composer Michael Abels, known for his work on “Get Out” and “Us,” scored “Star Wars: The Acolyte.”

X: @DisneyPlus; @ starwars; @OfficialAcolyte

Instagram: @DisneyPlus; @starwars; @OfficialAcolyte

Facebook: @DisneyPlus; @ starwars

TikTok: @DisneyPlus; @ StarWars

Hashtag: #DisneyPlus; #TheAcolyte

ABOUT DISNEY+

Disney+ is the dedicated streaming home for movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic, along with The Simpsons and much more. In select international markets, it also includes the general entertainment content brand, Star, and in the

U.S., Disney Bundle subscribers can also access extensive Hulu content, including next day TV and Hulu Original titles, on Disney+. The flagship direct-to-consumer streaming service from Disney, Disney+ offers an ever-growing collection of exclusive originals, including feature-length films, documentaries, live-action and animated series, and short-form content. With unprecedented access to Disney’s long history of incredible film and television entertainment, Disney+ is also the exclusive streaming home for the newest releases from The Walt Disney Studios. Disney+ is available as a standalone streaming service, as part of the Disney Bundle in the U.S. that gives subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, or as part of Combo+ in Latin America with Star+, the standalone general entertainment and sports streaming service in the region. For more, visit disneyplus.com, or find the Disney+ app on most mobile and connected TV devices.

HEART EVANGELISTA ALDEN RICHARDS

KIM CHIU