67 minute read
TOM LABONGE SUMMIT
COVID -19 vaccines: Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna now authorized for emergency use in the US - which one would be best for me?
Now that the two COVID -19 vaccines: Pfi zer-BioNTech and Moderna have been authorized for emergency use in the United States, and is currently being administered initially to all medical frontliners, our age group of 60 years and older will be the next in line, and we remain to ask: which of these two vaccines would be best for me?
According to a newsletter published by the American Medical Association (AMA), some of its leading physician experts said that "it is less important which of these two vaccines a person gets, but it is imperative that EVERYONE gets VACCINATED." "These new vaccine platforms are not unknown; scientists have been working with these mRNA (messenger RNA) technology for nearly two decades," said Sandra Fryhofer, MD, an Atlanta general internist who serves as AMA's liaison to the Centers for Disease Control; and Prevention's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and a member of ACIP's COVID-19 Vaccine Work Group. Dr. Fryhofer also explained that "mRNA vaccines - also known as messenger RNA vaccines are now being approved for the fi rst time; they have been a topic of study by researchers for decades. The diff erence between mRNA vaccines and more traditional ones comes down to what is contained in the vaccine. mRNA vaccines do not contain live virus, so, they cannot cause an infection and they cannot give someone COVID because mRNA vaccines do not aff ect or interact with our own DNA in any way, The messenger ENA never enters the nucleus of the cell and it doesn't hang around... the body breaks it down within hours." Apparently, the Pfi zer-BioNTech vaccine is the fi rst mRNA vaccine that received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the FDA. On the other hand, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also granted EUA to the SARs -CoV-2
Dr. Sandra Fryhofer, AMA’s liaison to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
vaccine developed by Moderna.
Further, Dr. Fryhofer said, "both Pfi zer-BioNTech and Moderna have done a good job in trying to mirror their study to represent the real world. Everything just happened a lot quicker than we're used to, which is good; so now, the next thing we've 'got to do do is elevate our job and take advantage of this gift that was given to us."
As the country navigates COVID -19 distribution, Dr. Fryhofer , who is a member of the AMA Board of Trustees, took time to discuss how to respond to patients about the types of vaccinations off ered to them. She stressed that "physicians should SHARE which COVID -19 vaccine they received and that when they discuss it, there should be a disclaimer that said "I would have gotten whichever one was off ered, and that I was able to get a dose of whichever vaccine I got, because I didn't care which one it was; I just wanted to get a dose of a vaccine and I will also make sure that I get my second dose in the series eventually."
Dr. Fryhofer also recommends that all physicians should tell their patients that they should take the one they can get and added the following message: "you have to decide if you wish to be vaccinated; Our recommendation to you is to go for it; take the one you can get, because the sooner you get that second dose, the better you are because you have to have BOTH doses in the series to get that 9495% protection."
Finally, Dr, Fryhofer suggested that patients should have an open communication with their physicians, because some of them might experience side effects after they receive their fi rst dose, "both vaccines will have some side eff ects on most people, such as: sore arms, feeling tired, or muscle aches, but those side eff ects are of course much better to deal with than having COVID -19. Also, she added that usually, the second dose has more side eff ects, but they usually last from one to four days."
Luckily, this writer's son, who's a frontliner had both of his Pfi zer-BioNTech vaccines done already. His recommendation was to take Acetaminophen before the vaccination. Another doctor friend said he was given Moderna and took over-the counter Zyrtec pills, before being vaccinated and he was fi ne; and a girlfriend also took Benadryl before she was vaccinated with Moderna.
To date, this writer's physician predicts that the Batch of COVID -19 vaccines for her offi ce will not be available for us until next month. Surely, whatever it will be, I will defi nitely be in line for it. Hopefully, we will ALL receive the vaccines eventually, to enable us to LIVE longer, HEALTHY lives until this pandemic is eradicated. Wishing you all to BE SAFE and STAY HEALTHY!
Filipino and Vietnamese Americans in hardest hit by COVID-19
By SUNITA SOHRABJI EMS Contributing Editor
Filipino and Vietnamese Americans in California are some of the hardest hit populations amid the COVID-19 pandemic, said Steve Kang, director of external communications at the Koreatown Youth and Community Center, at a Jan. 21 briefi ng organized by the California Department of Public Health and the Sierra Health Foundation.
Kang referred to data recently released by Santa Clara County Health Offi cer Sara Cody. Vietnamese Americans make up just 19 percent of the Asian American population in Santa Clara County, yet account for 28 percent of all coronavirus infections in the county.
Similarly, Filipino Americans are 13 percent of the Santa Clara County Asian American population, yet they account for 21 percent of COVID cases in the county.
Native Hawaiian and Pacifi c Islanders in the county also have disproportionately high rates of infection.
Dr. Erica Pan, state epidemiologist with the California Department of Public Health, said the state is looking closely at why some subsections of the AAPI population are at higher risk for COVID infections.
A lot of the state’s health workers are Filipino Americans, she noted, while the garment industry in the state employs a lot of Vietnamese Americans who may be working in settings that do not allow for social distancing.
A study published last December in the Journal of General Internal Medicine noted that 57 percent of Vietnamese-Americans live under the poverty level, which is a risk factor for overall mortality.
The researchers — Daniel Wang, Gilbert Gee, Ehete Bahiru, Eric Yang, and Jeff rey Hsu, of the UCLA School of Medicine — noted that Vietnamese Americans, Koreans, Chinese Americans, and Pacifi c Islanders are more likely to be uninsured.
Filipino Americans make up one-fi fth of the health care work force in California, noted the researchers, who advocated for dis-aggregating data related to COVID in the Asian American community.
At the briefing, Dr. Pan noted that California is continuing to experience a surge in infection an death rates from COVID, putting a severe strain on health care resources.
Vaccines, said Dr. Pan, are “absolutely the light at the end of our tunnel the end of this pandemic.”
CONTNUED ON PAGE 16 “TOm LaBONGe SUmmIT”... fROm PaGe 1
of life have shared warm wishes, memories, and tributes to Councilmember LaBonge, a reminder of how many people he touched, inspired, and moved over the course of his career. Any L.A. residents, friends, and admirers who wish to add their condolences and stories are encouraged to do so here.
Given the spread of COVID-19, the LaBonge family will hold a private memorial in the days ahead; as soon as it is safe to do so, a larger, public gathering will be organized. Until that is possible, anyone wishing to make a contribution in LaBonge’s honor is asked to support The Tom LaBonge Memorial Fund for Griffi th Park.
As many knew, LaBonge walked through Griffi th Park daily, exploring every view, pathway, and vista, and he gave his soul to this city. To keep his memory alive, the family has urged residents and community members to do what Tom always urged them to do — in his words, “let’s continue to enjoy and love Los Angeles!”
Dealing With Debt During The Pandemic Requires A Financial Plan: What’s Yours?
WHEN the virus makes your income disappear overnight, it can be very frightening to realize that you can’t go very long without it because your bills don’t stop just because your income did.
No one ever wants to file bankruptcy. But if you are one of the millions laid off and don’t even know whether you have a job to go back to or not, it might make sense, especially if you are overwhelmed with debt. If bankruptcy is appropriate for your situation, it can give you a sense of control during these uncertain times and help you get back on your feet quickly when things go back to normal.
While the government is doing its best to provide safety nets during this crisis, you are still left to figure out on your own how to survive financially. Your stimulus check may be enough to keep you afloat for a month or two, but once that’s gone, you’re back in the same situation. For small businesses hoping to get a loan from the SBA, the money quickly ran out in a couple of weeks last time and although this can help keep you afloat for several months, most businesses will still struggle unless revenues go back up to allow a reasonable profit.
If you have stopped paying your mortgage due to your lender agreeing to a temporary forbearance, you should realize that this relief is temporary, and that the money will still need to be paid back whether in payments or a lump sum. No such thing as a free lunch. Same thing applies to suspended rent payments due to the government issuing a moratorium on evictions for the time being. Once the stay- at- home order is lifted and the moratorium expires, you should assume that the missed rent will be due and unless you can work something out with your landlord, you can be evicted.
The best thing you can do right now is to develop a financial strategy instead of doing nothing. Some people who call my office tell me that they are not even calling their mortgage company or the lender on their vehicle because they don’t know what to say. This is the wrong approach. It is always best to maintain communication with creditors who have quicker legal remedies than others. Your mortgage company can foreclose on your home. The lender on your car can repossess. It is important to let them know how the virus has affected your finances and see what type of assistance they can provide even if temporary.
Remember that food and health should be at the top of your priority list. If you are fortunate enough to have a bit of savings, make sure that you only spend this on essentials for daily survival. It would not make sense to waste this money paying a bill that you could wipe out in bankruptcy if you have to file later.
Don’t assume that just because you’re now unemployed or that the fact that your hours have been cut that you will automatically qualify for bankruptcy. The court still looks at your income for the last 6 months and if you’re likely to go back to work soon making the same amount of money, it will be tough trying to convince the court that you have no ability to pay. But if you are uncertain as to when and if you’d even be able to go back to work, you may have a good argument to file bankruptcy now while the timing is right. Every situation is different and must be analyzed by an experienced bankruptcy attorney.
Obviously, if now is the right time to file bankruptcy, the sooner you do it, the sooner you can rebuild your credit and get back on your feet. If you’ve hit the bottom or about to, you may be feeling a lot of stress right now like everyone. My suggestion is to take things day by day, remember that there is only so much that you can do and to be pro-active in developing a financial strategy instead of just waiting for things to happen.
Call my office and together, we can figure out what the best strategy is for your situation. NOTE: Due to the current lockdown order caused by COVID-19, I am offering free consultations BY PHONE to anyone who needs help in dealing with their debt problems.
(None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully helped over 5,000 clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call RJB Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1-866-477-7772).
Cancellation of PMI now that your value has gone higher
FIRST you must contact your mortgage lender to request cancellation or inquire how much longer mortgage insurance will remain on your loan. Most of you probably don’t realize that your PMI could stay with your between 2-5 yrs. Surprisingly your mortgage lender may also not know this fact.
When can I cancel MI? When the balance on your mortgage reaches 78-80% of the home's original value or current appraised value, you may request cancellation of your MI. You must have a good payment history with respect to the mortgage, mortgage payments must be current and there can be no other loans against the home. Some lenders also require verification that the property did not decrease in value.
Will it get cancelled automatically? When the mortgage balance reaches 78% of the home's original value and payments are current, the lender is required to cancel the mortgage insurance automatically.
But, do lenders freely give up this protection towards their investment. Mostly likely not.
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What is Mortgage Insurance
Mortgage insurance is a first level of protection that protects against the risk of loss on a mortgage in the event a borrower is not able to repay the loan and there is not sufficient equity in the home. Mortgage insurance has helped millions become homeowners by enhancing their ability to borrow in an affordable way by reducing the risk of their loans.
There are two types of mortgage insurers: government agencies and private insurers. The main government mortgage insurer is the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). FHA also insures lenders from losses when borrowers default, but the taxpayers bear substantially all the financial risks when those loans are not repaid.
Tax Deductibility of MI. The ability of borrowers to deduct MI premiums from federal income taxes expired at the end of 2013. This critical provision should be restored because MI premiums are the economic equivalent of mortgage interest payments, and so should remain deductible.
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Here are some of the MI companies with their contact info and guidelines:
Genworth Financial – 800-444-5664 - MI removal per Genworth Rep is that typically you have to maintain MI pmt for 2 yrs and the loan to value has to be 78% or less. But its at the discretion of your servicer.
MGIC -1.800.424.6442 See MGIC guidelines below:
Borrower-requested cancellation under HPA
Borrowers must provide a written request for MI cancellation to the lender, who cancels the MI policy: • On the date the mortgage loan balance is first scheduled to reach 80% of original value, based solely on the initial amortization schedule2, regardless of the outstanding balance of the loan OR • On the date the mortgage loan balance actually reaches 80% of the original value
MI coverage can be cancelled only if: • The borrowers have a good payment history AND • The borrowers satisfy any lender’s requirements that the property value has not declined and that no subordinate liens exist
CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PRESIDENT BIDEN’S IMMIGRATION REFORM BILL
PRESIDENT Biden announced the highlights of a plan to reform the U.S. immigration system. The anticipated bill is expected to feature a path to permanent residence and citizenship for qualifying undocumented foreign nationals and those holding Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and H-2A status, mechanisms to clear extensive green card backlogs in the employment-based and family-based programs, a streamlined process for graduates of U.S. university with advanced STEM degrees to obtain permanent residence, and an increase in Diversity Lottery Visas, among other provisions.
A clear pathway to permanent residence and US citizenship
The Biden legislation is expected to provide a path for foreign nationals currently holding DACA, TPS or H-2A status to immediately apply for permanent residence if they were physically present in the United States on or before January 1, 2021. After receiving their green cards, qualifying foreign nationals could apply for citizenship after three years, provided that they meet security and background checks and demonstrate knowledge of English and U.S. civics.
Undocumented foreign nationals who were physically present in the United States on or before January 1, 2021 would be able to immediately apply for temporary legal status. After five years in temporary status, they would become eligible to apply for permanent residence if they have passed certain security and criminal checks and paid U.S. taxes. These foreign nationals could then apply for citizenship after three additional years, provided that they pass additional background checks and demonstrate knowledge of English and U.S. civics. Special provisions are also included for certain individuals who were removed during the Trump Administration, but were physically present for at least three years prior to their removal. poverty that causes their citizens to flee. Humanitarian program reforms would be implemented, including an elimination of the one-year deadline for filing an asylum claim and an increase in the U visa cap from 10,000 to 30,000.
Many of these provisions may change as the bill works its way through congress. However with the Democrats in control of Congress, the future of immigration in the US looks brighter under the new Biden administration.
Family-based immigration reforms
Family-based immigrant visa backlogs would be cleared through the recapture of unused visas from prior years and the increase in per-country visa caps. A process would be put in place that would allow foreign nationals with approved family-sponsored petitions to join family members in the United States while their green card applications are pending. Immigration laws would be revised to explicitly allow LGBTQ+ petitioners to sponsor family members.
Employment-based immigration reforms
The bill is expected to include provisions to clear employment-based immigrant visa backlogs, recapture unused visas, reduce lengthy permanent residence wait times and eliminate per-country immigrant visa caps. It is anticipated that these goals would be achieved in part by exempting spouses and children of green-card holders from the annual green card quota as well as Ph.D. graduates working in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields. The bill includes the codification of H-4 employment authorization for spouses of H-1B workers. The bill would also create a pilot program that would stimulate regional economic development, give DHS the authority to adjust green cards based on macroeconomic conditions, and incentivize higher wages for nonimmigrant, high-skilled visas.
MORTGAGE UPDATE… FROM PAGE 6
Lender-required cancellation under HPA
The lender must automatically cancel the MI policy: • On the date the mortgage loan balance is first scheduled to reach 78% of original value, based solely on the initial amortization schedule, regardless of the outstanding loan balance AND • If the borrowers are current on the payments required by the terms of the mortgage
Different cancellation requirements apply to loans designated at origination as “high risk.”
Essent Guaranty - Toll-free: 877.673.8190 their guidelines to remove MI: See Below
There are two types of mortgage insurance cancellation available to borrowers: 1. Automatic Cancellation: Borrower-paid mortgage insurance is automatically cancelled by the mortgage servicer when the loan amount is reduced to 78 percent of the original property value (or when the loan reaches its half-life, ex. 15 years on a 30-year mortgage). 2. Voluntary Cancellation: Borrowers can request that mortgage insurance be cancelled when they believe that their current loan amount is 80 percent or less of their current property value. An appraisal will be required to validate the value of the property.
National MI - Main: 855.530.NMIC (6642) Per Rep send request to : Servicing@ nationalmi.com.
From what I understand from talking to several MI companies and thru their websites, seems real easy to get your PMI removed once you have built equity on your property? But you have to deal with your servicer who is really benefitting from the MI coverage, will they will so willing to remove your extra MI payment voluntarily? Probably not, so do your own homework and research your value and see if you have some more savings from getting rid of your MI every month.
There is always the option of refinancing with the current rates, you just have to check if your rates are higher to benefit both lowering of your mortgage interest rate and removing that extra $100.00-300.00 MI payment you are paying that is no longer tax deductible.
Thanks for all your inquiries, this is definitely something most of you MI paying homeowners have to realize. The Departments of Homeland Security and Labor would be required to make recommendations for improving the employment eligibility verification process and providing protections to foreign workers affected by labor violations.
Other provisions in the Bill includes an increase in the annual number of green cards available under the Diversity Lottery Visa Program from 55,000 to 80,000.
The three- and ten-year bars for individuals who have been unlawfully present in the United States would be eliminated. This would eliminate the need to request for provisional waiver of the unlawful presence specially for those who were not inspected when they entered the US or those who entered as a crew member.
The president would be barred from discriminating based on religion in issuing immigration bans. Immigration enforcement would be enhanced through smart technologies.
Funding would be allocated for an inter-agency plan that would address the underlying causes of migration in the Central American region, including an increase in assistance to El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras, conditioned on their ability to reduce the corruption, violence and
Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation.
Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APLC is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010.
Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com. Visit us at kenreyeslaw.com
CAREGIVERS: What are you waiting for? A Letter from Caregiver Attorney Daniel Chaleff
I RECEIVED a call the other day from a caregiver who has been reading my articles in Weekend Balita for over 3 years. I was so happy to receive this call. I am sure many of you reading this advertisement now have cut out and saved my articles or read them over the years and thought “I have that exact claim.” Many caregivers have valuable claims for unpaid overtime but are fearful of moving forward with a claim. Now is the time to take action and learn more about caregiver overtime law. I want to hear from you.
I want to assure you that all communications with me are confidential and all consultations are free. I understand many caregivers work long hours with little free time. I am available for free consultations early in the morning before your patient awakens or late at night after your patient is asleep. I also work weekends if you have a 24/5, Monday to Friday job. I do not pressure caregivers to make a claim. If I simply educate you about the law and give you some free advice that would make me very happy. Even if you are not ready to make a claim now, you should reach out and speak with me about your claim. I can provide valuable advice about your situation and talk with you about the best time to make a claim.
If you are a 24/7 caregiver, working for a day rate (i.e. $160 to $240 per day), with no overtime, for several years, your claim may be worth several hundred thousand dollars. Many of my clients have claims that exceed $500,000. One key to a successful claim is your employer needs to be wealthy to afford to pay for a large settlement. If I am provided information about your employers, I can research public records and get a snapshot of your employer’s wealth and evaluate your potential claim. If you are interested in a detailed explanation of claim values, you can visit my website at www.caregiverovertime.com/pa/worth/ for an article that calculates a hypothetical claim’s value. I know many caregivers are fearful of moving forward with valid claims due to their immigration status, a failure to pay taxes, or fear of the legal system. While all of these are valid concerns, in my opinion, the risks associated with these concerns are minimal versus the potentially lifechanging reward that awaits caregivers with the courage to move forward with claims. So many of my clients had recovered life changing settlements allowing them to retire to their home countries, make a down payment or build a home, help a child with education expenses, or send money to their families. If you would like to review an article that addresses common concerns caregivers have in pursuing an overtime claim, please visit my website at www.caregiverovertime.com/pa/concerns/.
I understand that the decision to move forward with an overtime claim can be difficult. Many caregivers I speak with are simply not ready to move forward at this time. That is okay. Even if our call does not result in your making a claim, I can provide valuable insight into your rights, educate you on the evidence needed to pursue your claim, and help you understand the powerful laws that can protect you from wage theft.
I want to hear from you now. Please call me at (818) 807-4168, this is my personal cell phone. I have a passion for helping caregivers and provide confidential and free consultations.
Sincerely,
DANIEL CHALEFF
This article is an attorney advertisement written by Daniel Chaleff, employment law attorney at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson. Our office is located at 5855 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Suite 400, Woodland Hills, California. We accept cases throughout all of Northern and Southern California. Our examples are of a general nature and are not a guarantee regarding the outcome of your individual matter. The law firm focuses on caregiver rights. Please call us at (818) 807-4168 for a free and confidential consultation. Please visit us at www.caregiverovertime.com/ to learn more about caregiver overtime law. We also offer a 24-hour chat line on our website.
Top US diplomat reaffi rms pledge to defend Philippines vs. aggression
MANILA (Mabuhay) — US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has reaffirmed the Biden administration's commitment to defend the Philippines against any armed attack in the South China Sea amid Beijing's new law authorizing its coast guard to shoot foreign vessels in the disputed waters it claims nearly in its entirety.
Blinken made this pledge in a call to Philippine counterpart Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin on Thursday, a day after he was sworn in as America's top diplomat.
Secretary Blinken and Secretary Locsin reaffirmed that a strong US-Philippine Alliance is vital to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
Secretary Blinken stressed the importance of the Mutual Defense Treaty for the security of both nations, and its clear application to armed attacks against the Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, which includes the South China Sea, according to a statement released by the US State Department.
It's the first indication of the new Biden presidency's policy on the South China Sea disputes and how it would continue to support its regional allies like the Philippines amid the escalating tension in the disputed waters.
The Philippines and the US have a 70-year-old defense accord, called the Mutual Defense Treaty, that binds America to defend its Asian ally from aggression.
Blinken, the State Department said, also underscored that "the US rejects China’s maritime claims in the South China Sea to the extent they exceed the maritime zones that China is permitted to claim under international law" as reflected in the 1982 United Nations Law of the Sea Convention. "Secretary Blinken pledged to stand with Southeast Asian claimants in the face of PRC pressure," the State Department said as both Secretaries "committed to continue building upon a relationship founded on shared strategic interests and history, democratic values, and strong people-to-people ties."
The US and China are at odds over the long-seething territorial disputes in the South China Sea, where Beijing has turned several former reefs into artificial islands with military facilities, runways and surface to air missiles battery.
Although Washington is not a party to the disputes, it has declared that it is in its national interest to ensure freedom of navigation and overflight across the contested waters where the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also have overlapping claims.
China's new law that was passed last week is expected to stoke tensions anew in the disputed waters.
The law allows the Chinese coast guard to undertake "all necessary measures, including the use of weapons when national sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction are being illegally infringed upon by foreign organizations or individuals at sea.”
Manila on Wednesday filed a diplomatic protest against China with Locsin calling the law a "verbal threat of war to any country." (MNS)
AFP looking into alleged China harassment of fi shers near Pag-asa
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The military is looking into allegations that Chinese vessels allegedly blocked Filipino fishermen from accessing the fishing grounds near Pag-asa Island, Western Command spokesman Colonel Stephen Penetrante said Wednesday.
According to Penetrante, the Joint Task Force West has not received a report about the harassment allegedly perpetrated by China. "Ang ginawa po natin so 'yung Joint Task Force West po natin ay vinerify po natin sa Pag-asa detachment po natin at wala naman pong reported incident of harassment ang ating fisherman doon sa sandbars," Penetrante told reporters. "Up to this date po, 'yung ating Joint Task Force West ay kinoconduct pa rin po 'yung verification at thorough investigation from other sources on the facts surrounding the incident po," he added.
Fisherman Larry Hugo claimed that Chinese forces have prohibited them from going to the sandbar. He then urged the national government to take action on this matter as their livelihood was already affected. "Kala ko po dadaan lang ‘yong barkong ‘yon tapos biglang naghinto sa harapan namin. At saka may kasunod pa na dalawa o tatlo pang barko. Parang binabawalan siguro kaming pumunta sa mga sand bar na ‘yon,” Hugo had said.
Penetrante encouraged fishermen to report to authorities if they experience any form of harassment by Beijing. He also advised them to continue their fishing rights in the area. "Ineencourage po natin ang local fishermen to execise their livelihood. 'Yun naman po ang nais ng ating gobyerno sapagkat sa gitna po ng pandemya, mahirap ang kanilang buhay," Penetrante said. "If they experience incidents of harassment, they must report it po sa ating LGUs sa area at saka sa security units," he added.
The Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines have not issued a statement yet on the incident.
Last week, the Asian Superpower passed a law that explicitly allowed the Chinese Coast Guard to open fire on foreign vessels.
The law was passed amid continued tensions over territorial disputes among China and several countries across Asia, including the Philippines. (MNS)
Lacson fi les resolution on Senate, House voting separately in Con-ass
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Senator Panfilo Lacson has filed a resolution seeking to direct the Senate to exercise its constituent powers to propose amendments to the 1987 Constitution, and clarifies that a separate voting must take place in the two houses of Congress.
This came after the House Committee on Constitutional Amendments resumed its deliberations on revising some restrictive economic provisions
ADB: Metro Manila daily medical waste up by 280 tons due to pandemic
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Medical waste in Metro Manila increased by 280 tons per day due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a report by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the United Nations showed Wednesday.
Each person in a health care facility produces about 3.5 kilograms of health care waste due to COVID-19 per day.
“[Disposable face masks] ang madalas nating makita dahil wala pong malinaw na tapunan ang ating mga kababyan,” Environment Undersecretary Benny Antiporda said.
Due to this, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) ordered the production of yellow trash bins for household healthcare waste.
One hundred yellow trash bins have been distributed in Manila while thousands more are set to be distributed in other local government units in the following months.
“We are calling all the LGUs, including the barangay leaders, to plesae come up with the yellow bin. ‘Yung kulay dilaw na basurahan basta’t nakamamatay na basura, itapon sa dilaw na basurahan,” Antiporda said.
“So we are calling their attention na maglagay lang kayo ng isa kada isang barangay,” he added.
The trash bins must be labeled properly and separated from normal trash bins. The infectious waste must also be brought to a place far from patients and public areas. (MNS)
Drilon: Liberalizing economic provisions in Constitution possible without Cha-cha
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Sen. Franklin Drilon on Wednesday said it is possible to liberalize the economy from restrictive economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution without amending it, as some lawmakers pushed for charter change due to mounting economic and health concerns because of the pandemic.
During the Senate committee hearing on charter change, Drilon said there are 3 bills still pending in the Senate which could improve “in the great deal” investments made in the country. He did not, however, discuss in detail what those measures were.
“Yes there are strong arguments in favor of liberalizing our economy but it can be achieved without touching, in the meantime, the Constitution,” the senator said.
Short-term investments in the country, he said, have also been successful amid the COVID-19 crisis.
“The phrase ‘unless otherwise provided by law’ which appears to be the most convenient tool, will not bring the desired liberalization if we are talking about that because Congress still has to enact those laws,” he explained.
“I’m at a view that amending the Constitution by adding the phrase… is not a golden bullet which will bring everything in,” he added.
The Foundation for Economic Freedom (FEF) had earlier said that adding the phrase “unless otherwise provided by law” in those restrictive provisions would give Congress the flexibility and leeway to conform with present economic and technological conditions.
Lawmakers from both the Senate and House of Representatives have argued that amending such economic provisions in the Constitution will help the country battered by the pandemic.
Rosario Manasan, a senior research fellow at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, said liberalizing restrictive foreign direct investment (FDI) was not urgent and could be politicized, noting that there are other ways to uplift the country’s economy despite the pandemic. (MNS) in the Charter.
Senate Resolution No. 623, filed on January 25, states that the Senate may propose amendments to the Constitution and, upon garnering threefourths vote among its members, approve the same. "My resolution when adopted will clarify unequivocally that voting to revise or amend certain provisions of the 1987 constitution will be done separately via 3/4 votes of the respective members of the Senate and HOR each voting in plenary," Lacson said.
He added that the same threefourths vote of each of the two houses shall be required when they convene as a Constituent Assembly to reconcile their disagreeing proposals to amend the Constitution.
Lacson noted that the confusion as to how the Charter amendments should be deliberated has caused "bitter political bickering" between and among leaders of the House and the Senate. "The difference between my proposal in the resolution and what the House is attempting to do based on their announcements to media is that they will do it on their own without the participation of the Senate, or at the very least make the senators irrelevant in getting the 3/4 votes required under the Constitution," he added.
Earlier this month, as the House Committee on Constitutional Amendments resumed its hearing on the so-called economic Cha-cha, its panel chairperson Alfredo Garbin Jr. claimed that the congressmen were already sitting as a Constituent Assembly.
Garbin said the required threefourths vote for the Con-Ass would only be applied when the measure is already being voted on third reading, and not in the voting in the committee.
After drawing criticism from Senate leaders, Garbin later took back his pronouncement describing his panel's deliberations as an exercise of a constituent power rather than a Con-Ass.
Meanwhile, during Wednesday's hearing, some framers of the 1987 Constitution said both houses must convene in a joint session but vote separately in amending the Charter. (MNS)
SENATOR PANFILO LACSON
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DISNEY’S “RAYA AND THE LAST DRAGON”
TODAY, Walt Disney Animation Studios launched a thrilling new trailer for the fantasy-adventure “Raya and the Last Dragon.” The trailer and new images, along with a stunning, brandnew poster, are available now to share with your readers.
“Raya and the Last Dragon” features an outstanding voice cast, including Kelly Marie Tran as the voice of the intrepid warrior Raya; Awkwafi na as the legendary dragon, Sisu; Gemma Chan as Raya’s nemesis, Namaari; Daniel Dae Kim as Raya’s visionary father, Benja; Sandra Oh as Namaari’s powerful mother, Virana; Benedict Wong as Tong, a formidable giant; Izaac Wang as Boun, a 10-year-old entrepreneur; Thalia Tran as the mischievous toddler Little Noi; Alan Tudyk as Tuk Tuk, Raya’s best friend and trusty steed; Lucille Soong as Dang Hu, the leader of the land of Talon; Patti Harrison as the chief of the Tail land; and Ross Butler as chief of the Spine land.
“Raya and the Last Dragon” takes us on an exciting, epic journey to the fantasy world of Kumandra, where humans and dragons lived together long ago in harmony. But when an evil force threatened the land, the dragons sacrifi ced themselves to save humanity. Now, 500 years later, that same evil has returned and it’s up to a lone warrior, Raya, to track down the legendary last dragon to restore the fractured land and its divided people. However, along her journey, she’ll learn that it’ll take more than a dragon to save the world—it’s going to take trust and teamwork as well.
Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada are directing, with Paul Briggs and John Ripa co-directing. Osnat Shurer and Peter Del Vecho are the producers, and Qui Nguyen and Adele Lim are the writers on the project.
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Raya and the Last Dragon’' will be available on Disney+ with Premier Access in most Disney+ markets, at the same time as it is released in theaters on March 5, 2021. Premier Access for the title will be priced at $29.99.
Galvez refutes report saying poor countries won't have much COVID-19 vaccines until 2023
Charged PhilHealth execs' fate up to Ombudsman — DOJ
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The fate of the officials of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) who were charged over anomalies in the state insurer is now up to the Office of the Ombudsman (OMB), the Department of Justice (DOJ) said on Wednesday. "The task force (against corruption) has already filed the complaints pertaining to the IRM (Interim Reimbursement Mechanism) with the Office of the Ombudsman. So we'll leave it to the OMB to determine the effect of such liquidation on any administrative or criminal liability of the respondent Philhealth officials," Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said in a message to reporters said.
This came after PhilHealth president and chief executive officer Dante Gierran on Tuesday said up to 92 percent of the PHP15 billion worth of the agency's funds initially believed to have been lost to fraud has been liquidated.
Last year, former PhilHealth anti-fraud legal officer Thorsson Keith claimed that the funds went missing due to the IRM and overpriced equipment purchases which are among the fraudulent schemes of members of the state firm's executive committee.
Earlier this month, the Task Force PhilHealth officially endorsed to the OMB the report of the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) on its investigation on alleged fraudulent membership enrolment activities and benefit claims made at the PhilHealth Regional Office 1 (Northern Luzon).
Criminal and administrative complaints were recommended against 25 incumbent and former officials of the state health insurance firm, most of whom are from the regional office.
The charges include falsification of public documents under Article 171 in relation to Article 172 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC); malversation of public funds under Article 217 of the RPC, usurpation of authority under Article 177 of the RPC; violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act; violations of the National Health Insurance Act of 1995, as amended by Republic Act 9241 and Republic Act 10606; and administrative liabilities for grave misconduct and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, DOJ Assistant Secretary Neal Vincent Bainto said.
The charges stemmed from a fake account created at the PhilHealth Regional Office 1 under the name “Pamela Del Rosario” which had retroactive contributions applied and ante-dated.
It was found out that 27 fraudulent claims were then made under the account.
The report also recommended charging PhilHealth officials and employees tasked to investigate such an alleged fraudulent scheme and their consequent failure to prosecute those involved in the incident. (MNS)
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. on Wednesday refuted a report saying developing countries will not have widespread access to COVID-19 vaccines before 2023.
During an inspection on the vaccination plan of Taguig City, Galvez pointed out that in most of the Philippine government’s negotiations, the terms say the vaccine supplies are set to be delivered in 2021.
“Sa ating negotiation, wala tayong 2023 negotiation. Ang negotiation natin is 2021. Ang pinaka-late na delivery is Q1 of 2022,” Galvez said.
“Sa tingin ko , mali 'yung basis ng the Economist (Group),” he added.
A study of the Economist Group showed that the COVID-19 vaccination programs in China and India will stretch until late 2022 due to the sheer size of population, according to a report by Reuters.
More than 85 poor countries will not have widespread access to vaccines before 2023, it added.
According to the report, most African countries are unlikely to get widespread vaccination coverage until early 2023, while many Asian countries will have broad access to vaccines by late 2022. "Most developing countries will not have widespread access to the shots before 2023 at the earliest," the Economist Group’s research division Economist Intelligence Unit director Agathe Demarais said in the study. "Some of these countries-particularly poorer ones with a young demographic profile-may well lose the motivation to distribute vaccines, especially if the disease has spread widely or if the associated costs prove too high,” Demarais added.
While acknowledging the possibility of supply problems, Galvez said he believes that the production of other vaccines will increase once their manufacturers obtain emergency use authorizations (EUA).
“Once na nagkaroon nap o ng EUA ‘yung lahat ng mga vaccine—like for example Johnson and Johnson, ‘yung Novavax, and other second generation vaccine—tataas na po ‘yung kanilang production,” he said.
More than 1 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines are expected to be delivered in the Philippines that will be used to start the vaccination rollout in February, according to Galvez.
These vaccine products are from AstraZeneca, Pfizer, and Sinovac.
According to Galvez, the negotiation with at least seven vaccine manufacturers is still ongoing, but the government has already signed four term sheets for the supply of COVID- 19 vaccines.
“We hope to seal this within this month or early February,” he said.
The Philippine government is targeting to secure around 148 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines to inoculate some 50 to 70 million Filipinos this year.
Galvez earlier said the government signed a term sheet with the Serum Institute of India for 30 million doses of Covovax and sealed a deal with China’s Sinovac for 25 million CoronaVac vaccines.
The Philippines is also expecting supplies from AstraZeneca with 20 million doses, Gamaleya with 50 to 100 million doses, Moderna with 20 million doses, and Pfizer with 25 to 40 million doses.
The government is also negotiating with Janssen for more supplies. (MNS)
PNP medico legal report rules out homicide in Christine Dacera death
Flight attendant Christine Dacera's death is due to 'ruptured aortic aneurysm' according to the PNP medico-legal report.
Around 50k to 60k OFWs vaccinated against COVID-19 so far — Bello
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Around 50,000 to 60,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) have already received jabs of COVID-19 vaccines, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said Thursday. Bello said the figure came from reports of OFWs who decided against returning to the Philippines after being vaccinated in their host countries.
“Hindi na sila magpapa-repatriate dahil nabakunahan na sila. So there were about more or less 50,000 to 60,000 of our countrymen na nabakunahan na,” Bello said at the Laging Handa briefing.
There are 13,897 Filipinos who contracted COVID-19 abroad, including 945 deaths, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday. Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Hans Leo Cacdac earlier said around 80,000 OFWs might return to the
Philippines in the first half of 2021 in light of the global health crisis. (MNS) MANILA (Mabuhay) — Flight attendant Christine Dacera died of natural causes, according to findings of the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory.
A medico legal report from the PNP crime lab dated January 11 but submitted to a Makati prosecutor on Wednesday says Dacera died of a ruptured aortic aneurysm that was triggered by an increase in blood pressure. "Manner of death as homicide is ruled out in Dacera's case because the aortic aneurysm is considered a medical condition. Rape and/or drug overdose will not result to the development of aneurysms," the report states. "Even overdose and ruptured aneurysm are two different conditions and cannot be both included as cause of death of patient," it adds.
The PNP submitted the report Wednesday to the Makati prosecutor investigating its complaint for rape with homicide against Dacera's companions before her death.
Dacera died on January 1 after a New Year's Eve celebration with her friends. Her family believes she was drugged and sexually abused, but her companions claim they did not harm her.
According to the medico legal report, the "dilatation or aneurysm" in Dacera's aorta was a "chronic condition" that "started long time ago or maybe years prior to her death." "No alcohol or recreational taken the night prior to her death will cause that kind of dilatation or defect on her aorta," the report states. "If she did not die that fateful night, she will still die in any scenario that presents an activity that will increase her blood pressure strong enough to tear that aneurysm."
If ever drugs or alcohol would be detected in Dacera's body, the report states this will be an "incidental finding because even by their absence, rupture can occur if blood pressure shoots up from different strenuous physical activities." "Vomiting or retching may also increase blood pressure and trigger the ruptured aneurysm," the report states.
The enlargement of Dacera's heart, according to the report, was "most probably... due to her chronic hypertension."
Mike Santiago, lawyer for some of Dacera's friends accused of rape with homicide, said the document "speaks for itself."
The Makati prosecutor's preliminary investigation, which will determine whether the case will be brought to court, will resume on February 3. (MNS)
Magalong won't recuse self from probe on Tim Yap party
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong said Thursday he will not recuse from the investigation on the party organized by celebrity infuencer Tim Yap where health protocols were allegedly not observed.
Magalong and his wife attended the event -- criticized by netizens after photos of the alleged protocol violations went viral -- held at the Manor Hotel last January 17. "Hindi naman. Bakit naman ako magi-inhibit eh nandoon naman ako, nakita ko naman sino 'yung mga nag-violate?" Magalong said. "Alam mo kasi, kung titingnan mo 'yung picture, talagang makikita mo may violation pero you have to know what really happened behind it also," he added.
Magalong has admitted that health protocols were violated during Yap's birthday party. He said some attendees might have forgotten to wear face mask when they were invited by cultural dancers to dance. "Habang kumakain kami, palabas na 'yung cultural dancers namin and alam mo kasi after the cultural dance, bababa 'yung mga cultural dancers, part of the tradition was to invite 'yung mga guests to dance 'yung community dance. Umiikot 'yan eh habang pinapatunog 'yung gong," he said. "Siyempre habang kumakain ka, 'yung iba siguro nakalimutan na nilang magsuot na dahil inimbita na silang sumayaw, 'yun na 'yun, nakalimutan... umikot... di naman lahat nakalimutan mag-mask, may mga makikita ka ring naka-mask," Magalong added.
Magalong, who is also the country's "contact tracing czar," said attendees are likely to be penalized for their alleged violations of city ordinances and the joint circular of the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Labor and Employment. "May mga potential na tatlong violation, city ordinance, dalawang city ordinance 'yung mask, mayroon pang isa 'yung physical distancing and then the joint DTI and DOLE circular," he said.
According to Magalong, the city government already sent a notice of violation to the hotel where the party was held. At present, the personalities who attended the birthday party are still being "ascertained."
Magalong said he is expecting the response of the establishment within the day. "Nagbigay na kami ng notice of violation sa establishment tapos ina-ascertain na lang kung sino 'yung mga taong nandoon. Ang sabi ng Manor isa-submit daw nila 'yung kanilang reply ngayong araw and at the same time, itong aming investigators din they are identifying sino 'yung mga nagviolate ng protocols natin," he said. Yap has defended the gathering, saying the videos do not tell the whole story. He also said it should not be called a party as the event was held to promote Baguio City's tourism industry, which was hit by the pandemic. (MNS)
Sinas not keen on extending stints of PNP chiefs:
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Debold Sinas on Thursday said the short stints of the country's top cops do not affect the implementation of long-term programs of the police force.
During a Senate hearing on the series of killings in the country, Senator Richard Gordon asked if Sinas PNP CHIEF POLICE would be in favor of a bill GENERAL DEBOLD SINAS that would set a specific term of two years for the PNP chief in a bid to address the "revolving door" issue. "Salamat po sir pero okay na po ako, sir, sa time ng pagserbisyo ko po, sir, para mapagbigyan naman po 'yung iba," Sinas, now only two months at the helm of the PNP, responded.
He will be retiring in May this year. "What we could assure you, 'yung long-term programs namin hindi po namin pinabayaan po 'yan. Kumbaga we are already institutionalizing at kung sino man po ang maging chief PNP as long as the policies are laid out, tuloy-tuloy po 'yan," Sinas said.
Gordon said the need of the public for a more stable PNP leadership outweighs the need to accommodate the promotion of police officials. "In other words, ang policy is pagbigyan naman natin ang ibang kaklase natin? Pero ang dapat pagbigyan 'yung madla, ang ating mga kababayan," the senator said.
Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, a former PNP chief also under the Duterte administration, tried to help Sinas explain his position. "Siguro 'yung gustong punto na i-drive ni General Sinas is that it's not how long you serve, but it is how you serve. 'Yun ang gusto niya i-emphasize," Dela Rosa said.
Gordon replied with a joke, "I don't like to make any sexist statements here pero parang quickie, parang quickie 'yan ah."
After Dela Rosa stepped down from the PNP in 2018, the police force already had four others chiefs—generals Oscar David Albayalde, Archie Gamboa, Camilo Cascolan, and the incumbent Sinas. (MNS)
Entertainment
Roxanne Barcelo, husband expecting fi rst child
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Roxanne Barcelo is expecting her first child, the actress-singer announced on Thursday.
Barcelo, 36, shared the personal milestone through a YouTube vlog entry, where she is seen baking with her brother, Timmy.
“While those buns are in the oven, there’s another ROXANNE BARCELO bun in the oven. My bun is in the oven,” she quipped.
“Mga Badidap,” she told her subscribers, “I wanted to share with you all that I’m preggo!”
Barcelo revealed being a married woman in a Christmas Day post, without details of the actual wedding day, and without identifying her now-husband.
Barcelo fi rst shared being romantically involved with a non-showbiz man in March 2020.
Referring to her husband, Barcelo recalled in her vlog, “When he said, ‘I want to start a family with you,’ I thought it was the most beautiful plan to have in my life.”
She then addressed her loyal followers, whom she thanked for “all the blessings that you have been wishing for me.”
Barcelo said she intends to “communicate with you as much as I can and to share with you as much as I can.”
“Hopefully, you will pray with me that our baby, me and my husband’s baby, will be happy, healthy, and normal. We are very excited to have this baby.” (MNS)
John Lloyd-Bea reunion movie 'set to grind in fi rst quarter of 2021'
BEA & JOHN LLOYD MANILA (Mabuhay) — ABS-CBN’s fi lm outfi t confi rmed that the much-anticipated movie reunion of John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo is still pushing through and is one of the biggest projects of the network in 2021.
In a virtual conference, ABS-CBN Films managing director Olivia Lamasan said the project is currently under creative development, but “we are set to grind fi rst quarter of this year.”
“Right now, tuloy pa rin ang creative development under Carmi Raymundo. This time, it’s a collaboration with John Lloyd himself and Bea. That is what’s happening. Tuloy iyan,” she said.
Back in October, Lamasan said the fi lm reuniting the iconic tandem was supposed to have been shot in Florence, Italy and released last year.
“Unfortunately, pandemic came, kailangan kumambyo,” Lamasan said. “We tried adjusting the material dito sa Pilipinas. Unfortunately, hindi kinaya.”
The next option was to “change the concept” altogether, according to Lamasan. However, that meant delays in script development.
During the Wednesday interview, Lamasan proudly shared that while the fi lm is still in the development stage, Cruz and Alonzo have been actively involved in the project as co-collaborators.
“The many experiences plus talagang 'yung innate intelligence naman ni Lloydie, parang ngayon umusbong ang kanyang creativity. So with everything that he’s been doing, he has truly matured as a person and as a creative person,” she said.
“It’s exciting that he, together with Bea who has gone through the same journey, collaborate in the project that they are going to do. It’s something that excites us. It’s something that excites the writer Carmi Raymundo, and the director Cathy Garcia Molina,” she added.
Expressing confi dence on the project, the fi lm executive said: “Ako hinihintay ko na lang mabasa dahil excited na excited ako sa project na iyan. Tandaan niyo, ang John Lloyd and Bea ay nagsimula sa akin sa ‘Kay Tagal Kitang Hinantay,’ their very fi rst soap.” (MNS)
Jaclyn Jose to daughter Andi Eigenmann: Wait 3 years for next baby
Multi-awarded veteran actress Jaclyn Jose proudly wears her mark as a lovely grandmother to Andi Eigenmann’s three kids.
“Siyempre, tutulong din sa pag-alaga kapag kaya,” Jose said at the launch of her latest movie, Joel Lamangan’s “Anak ng Macho Dancer” in Quezon City.
Jose is actually overwhelmed by the “superwoman” power of Eigenmann, who gave birth recently to Koa, her son with fi ance Philmar Alipayo, one year after the birth of their daughter Lilo.
Eigenmann’s first-born daughter, Ellie, with actor-host Jake Ejercito is now 9 years old.
“I am very happy for Andi, ang lakas ng loob niya,” Jose gushed. “She’s a very strong woman, wow! Lumabas na ng ospital, nakauwi na, andun na ang baby. Sabi ko lang sa kanya, dahan-dahan muna tayo ng konti. After three years na uli, pahinga muna!”
Jose laughed at observations that her daughter may have inherited her strength through all the trials she hurdled.
“Siyempre sa akin nagmana," she said, laughing. "We have to be tough, lalo na sa panahong ito. I support her 100 per cent. Bilib ako sa tapang n'ya on how to handle things, kung paano niya harapin at mahalin ang buhay ng masaya. Nasasaktan at nagagalit din siya pero very positive pa rin siya! Eto ang buhay niya - she’s very happy!”
Given a choice, Jose wishes to have more time with her grandchildren. But she’s currently immersed in various projects.
Aside from “Anak ng Macho Dancer,” Jose will reunite with Nora Aunor in the upcoming Adolf Alix Jr.’s “ Kontrabida.” Up to now Aunor and Jose’s confrontation scene as wife and mistress in the Lamangan movie “The Flor Contemplacion Story” is a favorite on the internet. Their much-awaited acting showdown in “Kontrabida” JACLYN AND DAUGHTER ANDI will also include Rosanna Roces and Bembol Roco.
Jose has high hopes also for the sexy drama thriller “Anak ng Macho Dancer,” topbilling new acting discovery Sean de Guzman.
“May controversial dialogue ako dun: ‘Guests, all the models are yours!’ Pero malalim ang movie, nakakaiyak!” said Jose of the film which will have its premiere streaming on KTX.ph on January 30. (MNS)
Kristo er Martin admits to being a father
MANILA (Mabuhay) — In a tearful admission, Kristoff er Martin revealed he is a father to a four-year-old girl.
According to the Kapuso actor, sharing this specifi c part of his life is defi nitely a big leap, as he's alway maintained a balance in his personal and professional life.
Kristoff er’s four year old daughter, Precious Christine or Prè, for short happens to be an “open secret” among his peers in showbiz.
“My friends know. ‘Daming (sic) nakakaalam. Ninong pa nga si Alden. Ninang si Bea, si Rodjun, si Thea, marami pa, as in marami pang nakaalam. Tapos yung iba na ['di] nakakaalam, nagtatanong kasi nga may haka-haka. Sinasabi ko talaga,” Kristoff er said.
“Hindi naman kasi ako malabas ng personal eh. If you’re going to search dun sa mga account ko, talaga sobrang konti lang makikita mo sa personal life ko. That’s me. Alam ko kasi i-balance yung work ko sa personal life eh. Sabi ko nga, I want to give Prè yung privacy na deserve niya,” the 26-year-old actor added.
Kristoff er asserts he was never an absentee father. In fact, these past few weeks have been diffi cult for him, as it is the fi rst time Prey has been away from him.
“I have Prè and I love my daughter. I really love my daughter. I miss her every day. When I call her, I always tell her, 'daddy misses you every day. Daddy loves you so much',” said Kristoff er.
“Si Prè nasa mommy niya. Ako kasi nasa Olongapo. Nasa ano siya sa pangangalaga siya ng mommy niya ngayon.”
The Kapuso actor clarifi ed his relationship status with the kid’s mom, saying, “Things didn’t work out." "We talked about this and nag-usap talaga. I won’t go into details kasi hindi naman na dapat sabihin," he said.
The two decided to co-parent and set apart their breakup from how would they take care of their daughter.
“Hinding hindi ko papabayaan si Prè. Hindi niya mararamdaman na nawalan siya ng tatay, na wala ako dun.”
Kristoff er considers this revelation as "a big chunk off his chest." ko, ‘Lord, pengeng sign. Isang tao lang. Talaga may isang …ano lang. Proud ako na nagawa ko ito kasi she deserves this. She really deserves this.” (MNS)
Its eff ect on his showbiz career, positive or otherwise, are the least of his concern for now. What’s important for him now is the fact that he was able to fi nally acknowledge, publicly, the biggest blessing in his life.
“Actually, I’m happy. Itong kay Prè ha, sobrang tagal ko nang gustong ilabas. As in sobra, sabi
Toni Gonzaga welcomes Mikee Morada to their family Mikee Morada to their family
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Toni Gonzaga welcomed Mikee Morada to the Gonzaga family after he and her sister Alex Gonzaga tied the knot.
In her Instagram page, Toni shared photos of her family with Alex and Morada during her sister's actual wedding day.
“Congratulations Mikee and Cat! Seve has a new tito! Yey! Welcome to our family,” she wrote in the caption.
Alex commented on her sister’s post and said: “Love you our ring bearer!!”
In a vlog publishing on January 17, Alex and Morada revealed that they had a simple wedding ceremony at their residence in Taytay, Rizal last November.
They did not divulge their wedding to the public right away because, according to Alex, “we wanted to celebrate together as a family muna. Alam namin na may pandemic. We just wanted to keep it to ourselves for a little while to celebrate.”
Saying their wedding is really for their parents, Alex said: “Kasi siyempre, 'yung nangyayari ngayon, it’s very uncertain. Hindi natin alam kung kailan matatapos ang pandemic. Siyempre gusto namin to seal the deal na nandito kaming lahat.”
Prior to the wedding, Toni also threw a lush tropical bridal shower for her sister. Photos from the event surfaced only after the vlog reveal of the wedding came out.
Going by the the posts of fl oral and event designer Gideon Hermosa, Alex was elated by the surprise as she was all smiles and she gamely wore a wedding veil and a sash with the words “bride to be.”
Alex said she and Morada will have a bigger wedding this year.
She also promised to make another entry to show her followers what transpired on her wedding day, and how she and Morada have been living as husband and wife. (MNS)
TONI GONZAGA
NEWLY MARRIED COUPLE, MIKEE & ALEX
Crisha Uy reacts to ex BF Joem Bascon's rekindled romance
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Vlogger Crisha Uy has opened up about her former boyfriend Joem Bascon's rekindled relationship with actress Meryll Soriano.
Last New Year's Day, Soriano surprised netizens when she revealed on Instagram her relationship with Bascon and posted photos with their baby.
Uy and Bascon were in a relationship for eights years before they parted ways in 2019.
In an emotional vlog back in January 2020, Uy revealed that she can't do anything if Bascon fell out of love.
After more than a year since they called off their engagement and then separated, Uy in her new vlog uploaded on Sunday, January 18, reacted to Bascon's new relationship and baby. "Alam ko na 'yung totoo. Alam ko na ‘yung relationship nila their bundle of blessing long way before pa nung na-upload ‘yan,” said Uy, explaining that she and Bascon have the same set of friends who update her.
She also admitted feeling the pain and the anger of being betrayed and lied to by Bascon while she was reading the news article.
“Nagalit ako kasi bumalik ‘yung feelings ko na I was betrayed all over again. Iba pala ‘yung feeling na nakita mo versus kinuwento or chinika lang sa ’yo. Parang feeling ko kasi kailangan kong ilabas ‘yung naramdaman ko that day ‘yung galit ko, ‘yung sakit na ‘yun, kung ano mang naramdaman ko that day. But hindi dahil mahal ko pa siya kung hindi, you know -- kasi naka-move on na ako ‘eh. Ano lang fi nally, fi nally na-confi rm ko na nagsinungaling talaga siya noon. That I was lied to,” she said. "Kasi I gave them the benefi t of the doubt eh before. Pero ‘yun na nga, sampal pala sa mukha nung nakita ko ‘yun. Sampal sa mukha na tama pala ‘yung hinala ko noon. Na fi nally girl -- confi rmed!" Uy added.
She believes they are not really meant for each other. "We were planning to get married saka na kami mag-family. Pero 'yun nga, I thank God na hindi natuloy 'yon kasi we are not really meant to be and God is good," she said.
“Naiyak ko na ‘yan noong 2019 pa. So 2021 na, so let’s move on," she added.
In the end of her vlog, Uy shared that honesty is the best thing she learned from her past relationship. "I hope na tulungan niyo ako to close this chapter in my life. I guess the greatest takeaway sa lahat ng ito, including the recent, ang importance ng honesty. Dapast honesty shouldn't only be sa ligawan stage, during the relationship or in love kayo sa isa't isa. Dapat honest din kayo kahit sa failure sa relationship. I mean kahit sa breakup stage, kahit masakit. Kasi if may honesty, may maiiwan na
Joem Bascon and Crisha Uy during happier times.
respeto sa isa't isa," Uy said. "Kaya ngayon ready na ako, open na ako, at ready na ako sa mga darating. I'm now wiser, clever," she added. (MNS)
Jeric Raval's daughter AJ joins 'Ang Probinsyano'
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Showbiz's latest sexy star AJ Raval is joining the cast of ABS-CBN's long-running action-drama "FPJ's Ang Probinsyano."
On Instagram, Dreamscape Entertainment posted a photo of AJ who will play the character of Police Captain Andrea Villar, a member of Black Ops. AJ is the daughter of action star Jeric Raval, who was also part of the AJ RAVAL hit primetime series. In January 2018, Jeric's character Gener sacrifi ced himself in order to save Cardo Dalisay (Coco Martin).
In previous interview, AJ admitted that her father is not supportive of her her decision to take the sexy route to stardom.
AJ stars in the upcoming fi lm, “Paglaki Ko, Gusto Ko Maging Pornstar,” a comedy-drama helmed by director Darryl Yap.
AJ insisted she is old enough to make her own decisions, which includes doing sexy scenes in the fi lm. “Nasa edad na rin ako. Mayroon na po akong sariling decision,” she said.
AJ is Jeric's daughter with former sexy star Alyssa Alvarez, who made fi lms in the '90s. (MNS)
Anne Curtis: I will never leave ‘It’s Showtime’
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Screen superstar Anne Curtis has vowed she will never leave “It’s Showtime,” ABS-CBN’s long-running noontime variety show, which she considers family and which has seen several milestones in her personal life.
Curtis, 35, made the declaration in a tweet, responding to a follower’s question as to whether she intends to return to the program.
Curtis, one of the original mainstays of “It’s Showtime” along with Vice Ganda and Vhong Navarro since its 2009 debut, is currently in Melbourne, where she gave birth in March 2020.
“As I told my Showtime family during a private conversation, I will never leave It’s Showtime,” Curtis wrote.
“Been with them since day 1 and will be them until the day comes that the show has to say goodbye. But for now, mummy duties lang ako.”
Curtis was last seen on “It’s Showtime” in December 2019, when she started her maternity leave 6 months into her pregnancy.
Despite her time away from the limelight, Curtis nonetheless remained a vocal supporter of ABSCBN, the home network of “It’s Showtime,” at the height of the controversy surrounding its broadcast franchise and during the crisis that resulted from its denial.
Curtis, who remains visible in local showbiz through her dozens of brand endorsements and charity work, has said she intends to resume her fi lm and TV career once her daughter Dahlia turns 1, at the earliest. (MNS)
Kris Bernal 'fangirls' over Alex Gonzaga
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Actress Kris Bernal can't help but "fangirl" when she met fellow artist Alex Gonzaga last month.
On Instagram, Bernal revealed that she was motivated to start vlogging after watching Gonzaga's videos. "Here’s a little trivia about me: Did you know? Ever since I started binge-watching @cathygonzaga vlogs, I became motivated to start my own YT channel. Luckily, I had a chance to meet her in person last December. Well obviously, in this picture, ang tigas ng katawan at ng mukha ko! LOL! I couldn’t even look straight at her. I was so anxious for a whole day because I really want to take a picture with her. Alam 'yan ng handler ko. I was supposed to vlog about it but my nervousness got in the way," Bernal admitted.
She also congratulated Gonzaga, who just recently revealed that she is now married to her long-time boyfriend Mikee Morada. "I just finished watching her latest vlog about her wedding day! God’s perfect timing is really the best!! Congrats Mrs. Morada! Hope you’ll continue to vlog and spread good vibes to other people even if you’ll start a new journey!" Bernal added.
In the comment section of her post, Gonzaga also congratulated Bernal on her engagement to chef and businessman Perry Choi. "Next time we see each other mas mahaba na sana chikahan natin!! Congrats also on your engagement ikaw na next!" Gonzaga wrote.
In response, Bernal wrote: "Thanks for noticing me!! That’s why you’re so loved by many cause you’re grounded even with all the success thay you have. Congratulations again!!" adding the hashtags #melting and #freakingoutsilently.
