Weekend Balita (Los Angeles edition) March 20, 2021 by Balita Media, Inc

LOS ANGELES / ORANGE COUNTY

VOL. XXX NO. 12

Saturday-Friday | March 20 - 26, 2021

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

ASIAN AMERICANS SHAKEN BY MURDER of SIX WoMEN IN gEoRgIA By sUniTa sohRaBJi | eMs Contributing editor

asiaN americans across the U.s. reﬂected on their community’s vulnerability to racist attacks, after 21 year-old Robert aaron Long killed six asian american women at three locations in georgia on March 16. Long, who told police the shootings were not racially motivated, has been charged with eight counts of murder. Atlanta Police Chief Rodney Bryant said it was too soon in the investigation to classify the shootings as a hate crime. Social media posts show Long deeply involved with his church: police said he allegedly

has an addiction to sex and was attempting to “eliminate temptation.” The suspect confessed to the murders and told police he was on his way to Florida. Using a gun he had purchased just a day earlier, Long first attacked Young's Asian Massage Parlor in Acworth, about 30 miles north of Atlanta, at about 5 p.m. Three ASIAN AMERICANS

TOP STORIES

Global News Philippine Navy to partner with French Navy in creating submarine force — Bacordo 8  It’s like a sin to think of elections amid COVID-19 pandemic — Robredo 9  Duterte signs laws creating 5 new independent schools 9  Gov’t ‘adamant’ to help 81% Pinoys fulfill dreams to own house 9  Drilon: SC recognized that President’s powers on foreign policy have limits 10  Watchdog’s first Philippine human rights report calls on UNHRC, ICC for more actions 10  Local air carriers bat for increased accommodations for inbound passengers, nix cutdown on arrivals 11  Palawan remains one province after ‘No’ votes prevail 11 

Sections BUsiNEss. 99k to 149k MSMEs expected to close permanently after year of lockdown — IBON 13  ENTERTaiNMENT. Dingdong marvels at how kids Zia, Sixto have completely different personalities 15  HEaLTH & FaMiLy. Filipinos ‘might all die waiting’ for vaccine sans innovative steps in pandemic response —Lacson 18  FEaTURE. Where are you in the vaccine queue? This Pinoy-made tool can tell 16 

Rent assistance opens for households and landlords iN keeping with Governor Gavin Newsom’s commitment to ensuring individuals and families stay housed during – and despite – the COVID-19 pandemic, Californians who have experienced a financial hardship because of the pandemic and who are most at-risk of eviction can now apply for the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program to help pay past due rent. Beginning today, renters and landlords can check eligibility and apply by visiting HousingIsKey.com or by calling 833-430-2122 toll-free, seven days a week. “For hund reds of thousands of renters and small property owners, there is more light at the end of the tunnel,” said

Governor Newsom. “We have the strongest eviction protections in the nation and, beginning today, we are providing greatly needed financial support to both renters and small property owners in need of assistance to pay their mortgages, with a focus on racial and geographic equity.” The CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program was created by the COVID-19 Tenant Relief Act, with the strongest-in-the nation eviction protections signed into law by Governor Newsom on January 29. Funding comes from the $2.6 billion in federal emergency rental assistance program to states and local jurisdictions. “An estimated 1.5 million California families, RENT

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Friends, artists set to remember Icee Cruz By aBneR GaLino

r i e n d s , ac q u a i nt a nc e s and fellow artists are set to remember a peer, better known in the Filipino American community as Icee Cruz, who generously shared his talent and energy to anyone he had the opportunity to meet while on his journey. Rogel “Icee” Claridad Cruz was found dead by his landlord in his room in a house in Garden Grove. He had been dead, presumably for about a day, when his body was discovered. The landlord called the Sheriff ’s Office. Weekend Balita, in an online chat with Icee’s

Singer/host Glenda Galura aka “GG Starr”, who is also a nurse, poses with Icee Cruz in this ﬁle photo of one the gigs that they worked on. FRIENDS

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Vaccination rate spurs hope for ‘Herd Immunity’ By MaRK heDin ethnic Media services With the rate of COVID-19 vaccinations steadily increasing, Los Angeles County officials are cautiously optimistic that ‘herd immunity’ will arrive soon – by summer if enough Angelenos get their shots. “None of us would have imagined a year ago this week that we would just now be starting to reopen our schools

and businesses,” County District 2 Supervisor Holly Mitchell said at an ethnic media news briefing on March 15. “Yet here we are, at a pivotal moment in our fight to end this dual (public health and economic) pandemic.” Earlier that day, citing a decline in new infections, the state eased some COVID-19 safety precautions. “With L.A. County moving into the red tier, it will allow many segments of our communities to reopen. I hope that what

we learned from the pandemic will make us a better L.A. County, as opposed to returning back to normal,” Mitchell said. For now, the biggest obstacle remains the struggle to get an adequate supply of vaccines. But if President Biden was correct in announcing earlier in the month that by May there will be enough vaccines for everyone in the United States who wants one, life in Los Angeles by June could seem a lot more normal than it has been

in the year since the pandemic began. The county, home to 10 million people, is approaching 3 million vaccinations administered, including 900,000 second doses. Health officials believe that once 75%80% of the community is vaccinated, “herd immunity” will take effect, preventing further spread of the virus because there will be fewer potential victims to infect. VACCINATION

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Weekend

Fil-Am

BALITA

ABNER GALINO, Fil-Am News Editor

Community Visit www.Balita.com

Saturday-Friday | March 20 - 26, 2021

Nurses, Alums, Rizal Monument, among non-profits that benefit from PHII

By LYDia V. soLis

he Philippine Heritage institute international held a virtual celebration on February 28, for its non-proﬁt partners who had contributed to the success of Naomi Palma armada’s private foundation, with a life span of 30 years.

Due to the “horrendous pandemic,” stated executive director Dr. Anna Lourdes Armada Chickey, daughter of Naomi, PHII filed for dissolution on December 31, 2020, and decided to donate whatever funds PHII has in its coffers to six FilAm 501 c (3) organizations. (WB March 13-19, 2021) “Sometimes, you do the job so well that the people you’re helping reach their goals and start helping others reach theirs,” said Louinn Lota, PHII keynote speaker during an annual Tribute to Outstanding Nurses and Community Leaders, “so, instead of seeing this as an ending, think of it as multiple beginnings. Mabuhay PHII!” Louinn was also twice a speaker at PHII’s 11th and 13th annual Youth Congress. A former AP senior print and broadcast editor, Louinn, with MA’s in Theology and Education, now teaches Religion, English and Journalism at Chaminade College Prep. “On behalf of PHII Board of Trustees, Dr. Anna Lourdes Armada Chickey and family, and beloved late founder Mrs. Naomi Palma Armada,” announced Josie, “I’m delighted to present and recognize the following non-profit organizations that have supported PHII mission and objectives. It is my honor to announce that the remaining funds raised during the PHII Tribute events in the last five years are going back to the community for good cause through selected non-profit partners.” *Camalaniugan Circle USA Inc. – Donation from PHII was given last Nov. 2020, for Emergency Relief Aid to the devastated victims of Typhoon Ulysses that hit Camalaniugan, Cagayan Province. The funds were used for food, water, medicines, and other basic needs. Several members of the Camalaniugan Circle had been recipients of the White House Millennium Council Initiative “Tribute to Outstanding Filipino American Nurses” since 1999. Response was given by President Fe Nagayan Casabar.

*Camalaniugan National High School Alumni Association International Inc. – PHII donated towards youth advancement at the high school. Some members were recipients of the President’s Award: “Profiles in Service, Pillars of Community” for Outstanding Community Leaders. Response was given by President Dennis Arellano. *Jose P. Rizal Monument Movement Inc. – PHII’s donation was towards the advancement of Filipino American youth as future leaders. JPRMM was a recipient of the “Founder’s Award” for Outstanding Community Organization in 2014. Some JPRMM officers also received the President’s Award: “Profiles in Service, Pillars of Community” for Outstanding Community Leaders. Response was given by Atty. Antero Pagunsan, JPRMM Vice Chairman. “Our beloved, late founder Mrs. Naomi Palma Armada,” said Josie, “was one of the leading members of JPRMM which was responsible for the construction of the Rizal Monument in the City of Carson, CA. *Philippine Nurses Association of Southern California (PNASC) and West La Sub Chapter (PNASC WLA) Inc. - PHII donated for projects on Awards & Recognition Program and Community Service projects. PHII and PNASC jointly started the Youth Enrichment Program in 2003, for five years until it became the PHII Youth Congress. Several PNASC members were awarded the White House Millennium Council Initiative “Tribute to Outstanding Filipino American Nurses,” for 21 years since 1999. Mrs. Naomi Palma Armada was the first and only Non-Nurse Honorary Member of PNASC since 2003, until her death in 2015. Responses were given by Roland Santos, PNASC President, and Catherine Rubio, PNASC WLA President. *Philippine Women’s University Alumni Association of Southern

Members and Memories of Philanthropy and Philosophies (lvsolis file photo) California. PHII donated towards the scholarship program. Several members of PWUAASC had received the President’s Award: “Profiles in Service, Pillars of Community” for Outstanding Community Leaders since 2007. “Lydia Solis, our MC,” said Josie, “was one of the previous awardees. Our beloved late founder, Mrs. Naomi Palma Armada, was a faculty member at PWU for several years. Response was delivered by PWUAASC President Lolly David Enrile. *University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center Nursing Alumni Association USA. PHII donated towards the school’s scholarship program. Several members of UERMMMC NAA USA were awarded the White House Millennium Council Initiative “Tribute to Outstanding Filipino American Nurses” for 21 years. Response was delivered by National President Jean Horbino Estanislao, one of the first PHII awardees in 1999.

PROgRaMME

Christine Consunji, a “sought-after” Zoom host is the 2021 Kalayaan Incorporated assistant secretary, who works at the Great Wolf Lodge Garden Grove-Anaheim as Director of Sales & Catering, where PHII had held events. The program started on a high note with Manny Miranda Evaldez, singing the Star Spangled Banner. He also sang a crowd’s favorite, God Bless Phil-USA. Truly, his passion is sharing God’s given talent in singing besides other passions like videography and photography. An active director of the United Pampanga Leaders Council, he is vice chair of Multi-Media. A retiree as operations supervisor in the Workers/Comp Bill Review Industry, he also does part-time sales of Solar Panels. Manny

closed the program with a nostalgic song popularized by Kenny Rogers, “Goodbye,” and “May the Good Lord Bless and Keep You.” PHII Trustee Willie de la Peña Manacsa, founder of the Midnight Motion Band in 2004, sang “Lupang Hinirang.” He’s a Batangueño from Sto. Tomas, Batangas, and has been president of his town’s organization from its inception. He also served as ‘Governor’ of the United Batangueños of Southern California. The godson of Naomi, Willie never fails to sing his Ninang’s favorite, “Wind beneath My Wings.” PHII advisor Mon‘Chito’ Mandap delivered the invocation, followed by welcome remarks from Dr. Chickey. It was a bitter sweet occasion as we closed the curtains to the Philippine Heritage Institute International that had served the community for 30 good years. “We are all truly blessed to be able to congregate together virtually,” stated PHII Pres. Josie Estaris De Jesus, “and speak of our dedication to community service. There is beauty in letting go. When we do,” she continued, “we close one chapter and open another full of opportunities to serve and to make positive impact in the world. God has a plan in store for all which maybe different from ours especially during this pandemic crisis. And it is important that we always trust God that he is always guiding us in the right direction.” Philippine Heritage Institute International Trustees include: Arthur ‘Jojo’ Armada, Vangie T. So, Lily Lara, Tessie Lightholder, Edilberto Ronquillo, Amelia Armada Carpio, Victoria Perez De Leon, Dr. Francisco Enverga, Willie P. Manacsa, Virginia Balanza Sullivan, and author; Advisors Mon’Chito’ Mandap, Dr. Ludy A. Ongkeko, and the late Violeta O. Unabia.

fRIENDS... fRoM PAgE 1 eldest daughter Jo Angel Cruz who was in the Philippines, learned that he left behind two other daughters, Rose Kamille Cruz and Patricia Rane Cruz; as well as a granddaughter Jhanika Rhian. Jo Angel said she last had a video call with her father last March 5 and then exchanged messages with him through Messenger on March 9th. When Weekend Balita told Jo Angel that we were about

to write on her father’s death, she replied: Please include the good stories about him, his affiliations, his works, his talents… My Dad helped a lot of people there.” Los Angeles-based host and singer Glenda Galura (popularly known as GG Starr), one of the artists that Icee had helped in the pursuit of their careers, connected Weekend Balita to Icee’s eldest daughter. When asked why she is leading

the efforts to commemorate Icee, the host/singer said: “I just thought about it. I felt like someone urged me to do it. I also feel that this is how he wanted to be remembered.” On Saturday (March 20) at 6 p.m. friends and acquaintances will gather at Kusina Filipina in Cerritos (11305 183rd St., Cerritos) to “talk about how” Icee had “touched our lives.” “A pastor will have a short service at 7p.m. and then

whoever wants to share their friendship with him (Icee) can talk,” Glenda said. “I met him through circle of friends of Fil-Am entertainers and started a friendship with him by doing most of my promotional gigs and show. He became like an older brother. He promoted my gigs by making videos and supporting by attending shows and taking photos,” Glenda narrated. Jo Angel intimated to Glenda

that she could only imagine how her father suffered moments before he died. The daughter speculated that her father must have been so tired on that fateful night “probably overwhelmed by the many projects” that he had previously sealed. Glenda said she chose Kusina Filipina as the venue because “it has a spacious area where ever yone can still socia l distance. It’s like a big parking lot.”

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Saturday-Friday | March 20 - 26, 2021

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Nursing in the Time of Coronavirus by Vics Magsaysay

“Save one person, you’re a hero. Save hundreds, you’re a nurse.” — Unknown

n March 9, 2020, three people in the city of Long Beach, California were tested positive with COVID-19," Jennifer or Jen, for short, an LVN (licensed vocational nurse) working in the emergency department of one of the primary hospitals in Long Beach disclosed. During the first surge of coronavirus cases, she recalled, "There was a lot of chaos coping with the surge in the hospital during those tumultuous weeks. Now that the second surge is upon us we're definitely up against the wall," Jen declared . Her mother was an RN (registered nurse) in the operating room before she earned a doctorate degree in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine). Jen, even at an early age, has been inclined to help other people and looks at her mom as her role model – the reason why she took up nursing in 1993. "I am a frontliner and do risk my health for the sake of others, but that is our job," she stated. She continued, "Of course I get worried, too, that's why I do everything possible to protect myself and my loved ones, to keep them safe. I take everything in my stride and pray every day." It is also her decision to not overwhelm herself with work and, in the process, endangering her physical, mental and emotional well-being. "It is just bewildering that despite all the warnings about wearing masks, social distancing, etc., people still gather in large groups and not following the advice of health professionals, while most hospitals are almost bursting to the seam," she noted poignantly. Recently, to get a little breather from staying home for such a long time, I decided to take my nephew out since his mom, my sister--also an RN--was working. We went to Huntington Beach first. Wow! It was like a normal summer with no pandemic—there was a mile-long line of parked cars, plus all the other public parking areas in the vicinity were full. What made my nephew feel too nervous to park was the number of people who were not wearing masks, despite the fact that they were walking side by side in overwhelming numbers. To make herself fit to face the onslaught of infection, she explained, "I regularly take Vitamin C, B12, zinc and D3. Besides these intakes, I have acupuncture treatments from my beloved mother, do outdoor activities with my family, exercise and eat healthy meals". She continued the advice: "It would be better not to go to the ER just for a new virus test. There are free drive-thru clinics, and even some major pharmacies, like CVS, conduct tests, too. We are already overwhelmed, and just to go to the ER to get swabbed would be spreading us thinly when there are so many patients with worsening symptoms that need more attention," she said. It is just too sad that despite all the precautions she followed to the letter, our frontliner was tested positive and was quarantined in her home. Well, that was not entirely unexpected, as she was in constant contact with infected patients. But the big question is about those who are infected but asymptomatic, walking around in crowds and usually without masks. It is like rolling dice, not knowing if you are in the crosshairs of this virulent new virus. "I am hopeful that with these vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, the probability of easing the unrelenting tide of positive cases will be more promising," Jen stated. Regardless of the new strains, frontliners like Jen are continuing their much-needed service to make sure that as many as possible survive this unheralded illness, first identified in Wuhan, China in December 2019. On February 11, 2020, the World Health Organization announced an official name for the disease that is causing the 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak. The new name of this disease is coronavirus disease 2019,

abbreviated as COVID-19. In COVID-19, ‘CO’ stands for ‘corona,’ ‘VI’ for ‘virus,’ and ‘D’ for disease. "I have some colleagues who got infected with this virus--and from what I know their symptoms were mild though--and they were all doing fine, and in self-quarantine for 14 days," Jen shared. "Yes, one of our unit secretaries in the ER got very sick and developed respiratory issues, was tested positive with this virus and was confined in the hospital. She was eventually intubated and on a breathing machine. Thankfully, with all the treatment she received she was given another chance at life. She fully recovered from such a tragic situation. She's one of our COVID-19 survivors." She mentioned that, in the ER, they have been supplied with all the proper PPE (personal protective equipment) that is needed, and even have donors to keep their supplies up. Like any healthcare workers--doctors, nurses, caregivers and others--it is not surprising that Jen affects the lives of her patients, and also in so doing, she too is touched by them. A phenomenon like this happens when love or compassion is involved. Patients might forget the name of their nurse, but they definitely will never forget what they felt when they were being taken care of during the time of their dire health challenges. I wrote an article about caregiving

No more killed and stolen sisters By Fe P. Koons

in this time of the pandemic almost four months ago. At that time there were 14 million people who had tested positive and 275,000 deaths. (As of this writing, there are now 29.3 million positive cases and 532,400 deaths in America.) It is just too sad that Jen’s mom, her role model, who was still treating people actively with her acupuncture needles over three months ago, succumbed to a lingering illness in the hospital. She was a longtime and caring friend who treated me, my kin and friends, too. Yes, it was great for Jen to finally get cured of this coronavirus, but the loss of her mother is another heart-rending challenge she has to face now. It's good she still has her dad, two brothers and three children to cushion the grief of the unexpected demise of her beloved mother. "COVID 19 is like vicious cycle that will not end until more people listen and abide by the CDC rules," Jen emphasized. Countries like Taiwan and New Zealand are doing well in their fight to stem the relentless tide of the pandemic. It is all about being united in following the WHO guidelines that makes the goal of stopping this coronavirus in its tracks. By following these preventive measures, we can definitely ease the burden of our frontline workers who are totally overwhelmed with nursing our brothers and sisters who are infected.

Vics Magsaysay, Ph.D., is a Los Angeles-based writer, fine art nature photographer, painter, sculptor, graphic designer, “makata” (Pilipino poet) and an alternative healer. He also holds a doctorate degree in clinical hypnotherapy.

atching the videos about indigenous mothers and children who are murdered or missing have brought tears to my eyes. I cannot imagine myself digging through mud, or the river to try to find my kidnapped child or sister. I saw how Ariel Begay, standing by the bridge in Arizona in memory of her sister who died in the summer of 2017. She said that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have not told them anything and that there is lack of evidence. She said further that people have told her that Ariel’s body was thrown from the bridge. Then, the killers cut her torso. In Vancouver, Canada, the case of Dawn Craig is still unsolved. Dawn ran away from a foster home. Because of her separation from the family, she decided to live by herself. Being poor and depressed, Dawn got addicted to drugs and became a prostitute. Dawn began missing in downtown Vancouver on Hastings and Main St. Her brother Ernie said that if the native Americans were white women perhaps the police will move fast. It is so obvious that the federal authority do not take the crimes seriously. The problem is that the tribes do not have a jurisdiction on non-Native people. Law enforcement do not trust the

native Americans. As of 2019, the US Department of Justice maintains records of murders every year. When it comes to indigenous women, they are 10 times more killed than the average national murder rate. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Native American women under the age of 35 experience a higher risk than many other groups. It is the third or fifth most prevalent cause of death for girls and young adults from age 10 up to age 34. The numbers, such as a total of 5712 cases of missing and murdered indigenous focus on people living off reservations or native land. Christine Stark, a Cherokee writer said, “These women have survived for their entire lives. They have an incredible amount of strength and resiliency. It’s really important to tell women that they are way stronger… we can accomplish more than we are allowed to believe.” Cheryl Zarate, of Af3irm Los Angeles which is holding a virtual forum on murdered and missing indigenous women and girls on March 25 at 6 pm points out that “they have been exploited as Native Americans and yet their genocide have not been given justice. Af3irm, a transnational, feminist organization will continue to fight for the indigenous people, especially the women and children.”

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Saturday-Friday | March 20 - 26, 2021

COVID scams on the rise amid vaccine distribution delays By Nina Mohan

cammers are taking advantage of the confusion surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine distribution and using it as an opportunity to prey on consumers anxious to get their shots. Because distribution varies state by state and changes are announced almost daily, there’s not a lot of clarity on when and how people can get vaccinated, explained Karen S. Hobbs, Assistant Director, Division of Consumer & Business Education at the Federal Trade Commission. “Officials are doing what they can, the best they can, but no state is immune to confusion and scammers are ready to take advantage,” she said. “This is one of those schemes that, like the pandemic, is affecting literally everyone, everywhere,” she added. Hobbs said the FTC has received numerous reports of vaccine scams, though none so far have involved large numbers of people. The complaints involve scammers posing as federal and local officials, as well as hospital staff, clinic workers and healthcare providers. “People are pretending to be someone you can trust in order to get money or information,” she said, adding that victims have reported being asked to provide sensitive information like social security numbers, medical information and driver’s license numbers. On its website, the County of Merced reported that scammers posing as clinic workers contacted Merced residents and offered them COVID-19 vaccines for an upfront $100.00 fee. After the money was paid, the victims were referred to a vaccine site where they did not have appointments. Prepaid schemes have also appeared in Ventura County, and in Skagit County, WA., local news outlets GoSkagit.com and KGMI.com have reported that scammers claiming to be Skagit County representatives called residents and offered them vaccine appointments and then asked for personal information such as a moth-

er’s maiden name or social security numbers to confirm the appointment. “The general message people are hearing [about vaccines] is scarcity and the logistical hurdle of delivery, and that feeds into this confusion and makes people pay attention when they get a call,” explained Hobbs. The FTC website offers tips on how to recognize a vaccine scam. First, you should never pay for a vaccine and anyone asking for money, whether to get you an appointment, put you on a list or reserve a spot in line, is a scammer. Other signs of a scam include: • Advertisements to buy the vaccine. You can’t buy it anywhere, it’s only available at federal- and state-approved locations. • Requests for personal, financial, or health information. No one from a vaccine distribution site, healthcare provider’s office, pharmacy, or your insurance company or Medicare will ask for personal information or your Social Security, credit card, driver’s license or bank account number to sign you up to get the vaccine. • Unexpected or unusual texts and emails containing links about the COVID vaccine. Do not click on links or open attachments from sources you don’t recognize as you could download dangerous malware onto your device. “Our advice to people is that you should contact a trusted source, so you’ll be checking with state and local health departments to learn when and how to get the vaccine and you can also talk to your healthcare providers directly,” Hobbs said. Hobbs also encouraged people to sign up for FTC consumer alerts for the latest information on a variety of consumer issues, including COVID-related scams, and noted that if you have been scammed, it’s important to contact authorities right away. “Getting money back from scammers is a challenge because scammers ask people to use certain payments and these methods have certain characteristics: quick, anonymous, difficult to reverse,” she explained. One popular method involves in-

structing victims to buy gift cards and then asking them for the numbers on the back. Scammers also ask for payments via cash-reload cards and money transfers such as Western Union and MoneyGram. “They choose these methods because they’re like cash – once the money is gone, it’s gone. That’s why it’s important to act quickly. It’s the only way to increase your chances of getting your money back.” Reporting scams to the FTC also helps the FTC and law enforcement prevent future fraud, Hobbs noted. “When victims report scams, the information goes into a database that our 3000 law enforcement partners read too,” she explained. “The information helps the agency spot trends, alert communities about potential scams, and informs the FTC’s education, messaging and policy priorities.” “We’ve redesigned our report intake system to be really easy, and we also have a version of the site in Spanish," which, Hobbs noted, is important for many communities served by EMS. “We want to hear from these communities, we really want outreach to them and part of the way to do that is through the reports they file.” People can file anonymously, she said, adding that the FTC does not ask or care about immigration status. “There is no required information [to file a report], people can tell us as little or as much as they like,” she said. For more information on how to avoid scams, or what to do if you have been a victim of fraud, please visit FTC.gov or click on the links below. • What to do if you have been scammed: https://www.consumer. ftc.gov/articles/what-do-if-you-werescammed • Three ways to avoid COVID-19 vaccine scams: https://www.ftc. gov/system/f iles/attachments/ coronavirus-advice-consumers/ three_ways_to_avoid_covid-19_ vaccine_scams_508_2.pdf • Information on COVID-related topics for consumers: ftc.gov/coronavirus • Report fraud, scams and bad

business practices, and get actionable Next Steps to help you recover: ReportFraud.ftc.gov • Report identity theft: www.identitytheft.gov For information on how to get the COVID-19 vaccine, please speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist, or contact your state and local

health department. • Contact your local health department: https://www.naccho.org/membership/lhd-directory • Contact your state health department: https://www. cdc.gov/publichealthgateway/ healthdirectories/healthdepartments.html

ASIAN AMERICANS... from Page 1 Asian American women and one man were killed in that incident: Delaina Ashley Yuan; Paul Andre Michels; Xiaojie Yan, 49; and Daoyou Feng, 44. He then drove to the Gold Spa in Atlanta, and killed three Asian American women there, then crossed the street to the Aromatherapy Spa, where another woman’s body was found. Long was arrested two hours later. Atlanta police have not released the names of the victims. Asian American leaders said the murders were targeted attacks which occurred during a dramatic spike in the past year of anti-Asian hate violence and intimidation. Stop AAPI Hate, a web portal allowing victims to report hate incidents or violence in several Asian languages, has collected more than 3,800 reports in the past year. Community activists believe the spike in hate violence is the result of President Donald Trump’s vilification of Asian Americans: the former President called the COVID-19 virus the “Chinese virus,” “the Kung Flu,” and the “Wuhan virus,” among other names. Elderly Asians and women have been targets for the majority of attacks. A poll soon to be released by the National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum found that 55 percent — more than half of AAPI women — reported being affected by anti-Asian racism at least once in the past 2 years. “We never expected this now: we thought it was over after Trump lost. But hate crime never seems to go away,” Atlanta-based Korean American activist Jongwon Lee told Ethnic Media Services March 17, amid a day of mourning. Lee said the local community’s first priority was to identify the victims — a difficult task as many of the women used pseudonyms for their spa work — and to help their families. He expressed his concern that law enforcement officials have not charged Long with hate crimes, and hoped that the FBI, which is involved in the investigation, will find evidence of a racially motivated attack. Captain Jay Baker, a spokesperson for the Cherokee Sheriff's Office in Georgia, has been criticized for minimizing the murders in Acworth. Long “understood the gravity of his crime. And he was pretty much fed up, had been kind of at the end of his rope, and yesterday was a really bad day for him, and this is what he did,” said Baker. A barrage of responses on social media characterized Baker’s statements as “sympathetic” to the suspect and “offering up excuses” for the fatal attacks. Speaking at a press conference March 17, organized by the National Organization for Women, John C. Yang, President & Executive Director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice, said: “Yesterday’s attack was on the most vulnerable in our community.” Christian Nunes, national president of NOW, said Asian American women are viewed in a hyper-sexualized, highly desirable way which makes them more vulnerable to attacks. She noted that crimes against Asian Americans have risen by 150 percent in the past year, amid the pandemic. In New York, hate crimes against the AAPI community have spiked by 833 percent, she said. Atlanta police released both of the 911 calls made from inside the massage parlors as Long proceeded with his rampage. In both cases, the dispatcher could not understand what the caller was saying and did not comprehend the gravity and immediacy of the situation. Yang and Gregg Orton, national director of the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans, said increased funding should be allocated for in-language interpreters across all sectors of government and law enforcement, as more than one-third of Asian Americans have limited English language proficiency. At an earlier press conference organized by the Atlanta chapter of Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Leng Leng Chan said: “This has been a devastating day. We are all grieving, trying to process what has just happened.” “This is white supremacy at its worst,” she said. “Low wage workers already face systemic racism, especially if they don’t speak English. The place they call home is not a safe place for them.” Aisha Yaqoob Mahmood said AAAJ Atlanta was working with the victim’s families to provide emotional and financial support. “Anti-Asian bias is not new to our community,” she said, noting the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which prohibited all Chinese immigrant laborers, and the internment of Japanese Americans during the second World War. “But violence definitely has increased over the last year, impacting our businesses and our families. Yesterday’s shootings have put an additional fear in our heart,” said Mahmood.

Saturday-Friday | March 20 - 26, 2021

recent immigration update was sent by this writer's friend of 43 years, US immigration specialist, Atty. Carl Michael Shusterman, a 1973 graduate of the UCLA School of Law. In it, he wrote that "on March 3, 2021, the American Dream and Promise Act of 2021 (H.R. 6) was introduced in the House of Representatives. The bill would offer a pathway to citizenship, not only to the undocumented, but also to thousands of children of parents who came to the US with certain types of temporary working visas, many of whom 'aged out’ before they can get green cards. In the past, only persons who were inadmissible or deportable or those with Temporary Protected Status or Deferred Enforced Departure could benefit under the Dream Act. Children, who came lawfully to the US with a parent or parents with working visas were not qualified even though their parents followed all the rules and waited in line for years to get green cards. Thousands of these children have turned two years have aged, while waiting for their priority dates to become current. Some changed their status to F-1 student, Others dropped out of legal status while waiting in line, or have left

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the country. continuously present The dream and Promsince then. (The bill alise Act would create a lows for travel abroad pathway to citizenship authorized by the DHS, for these persons Inand travel abroad of up cluded would be sons to 90 days at a time and and daughters of H-1 180 days cumulatively) B professionals, L-1 ex They graduated ecutives, managers and from high school, have those with specialized a GED, or are enrolled knowledge, E-1 treaty in a high school or coltraders and E-2 treaty lege in the US; investors.  They have not been Unfortunately, the convicted of certain Dream and Promise Act crimes. Expunged condoes not create a path to victions can not be used citizenship for children against them. They may of parents with other be able to apply for of types of temporary waivers of certain misworking visas, but the demeanor convictions. bill could be amended to order to do so. Also, the Dream and Atty. Carl Michael Shusterman However, In order for Promise Act would allegal dreamers to quallow children who were ify for a path to citizenship, under the forced to leave the US because they Dreamers and Promise Act, children of "aged-out" to apply for green cards at parents with temporary work visas need a US Embassy Consulate abroad if they to meet the following requirements: have been physically present in the US  They have been continuously present for a minimum of 4 years and left the in the US since January, 2021; country on or after January 20, 2017.  They were under the age of 18 when It should be noted that the bill does not they first came to the US and have been require that the person's parent current H-1 B, L-1, E-1 or E-2 status in order to qualify for benefits. The parents could now be green card holders or US citizens. They could have left the US. In order for the American Dream and Promise Act of 2021 to become Law, it must be passed in both the Senate and

The American rescue plan: Who wins? Who loses? By sUniTa sohRaBJi eMs Contributing editor

he $1.9 trillion COVID relief package signed into law March 11 by President Joe Biden, offers benefits for almost every American, but — once again — leaves out undocumented immigrants, millions of whom have been essential workers during the national crisis. The measure, known as the American Rescue Plan, offers a new round of $1,400 stimulus checks to individuals earning less than $80,000. It also extends unemployment relief — which was set to expire March 14 — to Sept. 6, allowing millions of jobless people to get an additional $300 per week in federal benefits in addition to state unemployment compensation. People who received unemployment last year do not have to pay federal taxes on the first $10,000 they received in unemployment relief. The measure also provides $135 billion to help schools safely reopen, $350 billion to support vaccination efforts, and another $350 billion to help state and local governments recover from a ruinous year. An expanded child tax credit of $300 a month per child — which will be available as a direct monetary payment each month — will lift half of the nation’s 11 million low-income children out of poverty. Relief is also provided for renters who were unable to make payments amid the pandemic, and also for small landlords. The measure provides also provides grants for small businesses: more than 160,000 mom and pop ventures have closed down permanently amid the pandemic. But the measure falls short in relief for undocumented immigrants, who will not receive the $1,400 stimulus checks. And, despite having put money into the unemployment insurance program via payroll taxes, undocumented immigrants do not qualify for unemployment relief. “We have to spend this money to make sure we have economic growth,” said Biden March 11 after signing the bill into law. He added that the relief measure will create seven million new jobs. “It changes the paradigm. For the first time in a long time, this bill puts working people in this nation first,” said the President.

The measure passed both the House and Senate with almost no Republican support. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Kentucky, criticized the measure as “bloated,” and stuffed with sops that had no relationship to COVID relief. He noted that the bill was passed even as money from the last round of $900 billion stimulus funding had not been spent. But Democrats disagreed. Speaking at a March 12 Ethnic Media Services briefing, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Illinois, said: “This is a game changer. This package of measures will help our economy heal. It is a big win for the American people.” One of the biggest components of the relief bill, the fight which Krishnamoorthi spearheaded, was aid to state and local governments. “Unfortunately my pleas with regard to this type of aid fell on deaf ears in the Trump Administration. Thankfully Joe Biden has thought better of this issue.” Krishnamoorthi said local aid was necessary because sales tax revenues and other sources of tax revenue have declined dramatically for many states, cities, and towns, forcing them to reduce services and staff. “I have Republican mayors who are contacting me, saying: Look, we need the revenue. We need a way to avoid laying off further police and firefighters and what you did in Washington was terrific, but can you do more?” So this is not a blue issue versus a red issue. This is an American issue,” said the congressman. Addressing the bi-partisan divide on the relief bill, Krishamoorthi said: “I'm reminded of the that old saying - ‘Republicans just say no but take the dough.’ It's interesting how many of my colleagues voted no, but they're going to be gladly accepting the aid on behalf of their jurisdictions and those jurisdictions are going to benefit immensely from this help.” Other speakers at the March 12 EMS briefing included Chad Stone, chief economist at the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities; Elaine Maag, principal research associate at the Urban Institute; and Sekou Siby, executive director of Restaurant Opportunities Center United. Maag said one of the groups that would

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the House of Representatives and signed into Law by the President. Some prior versions of the DREAM ACT have been introduced in every session of Congress since 2011, there are plenty of reasons to doubt whether the present bill will become Law. However, pending the reach of the bill to include legal immigrants, may increase support for the bill. In 2017, dozens of Republican members of the House of Representatives signed on to the RECOGNIZING AMERICA'S CHILDREN Act, which would have allowed children of E-2 investors status to apply for green cards. Given huge waiting times caused by outdated per-county quotas on some of the employment - based categories, it is only fair that the AMERICAN DREAM and PROMISE ACT provide relief to children from families who follow the law." As a background, this writer's friend, Immigration Specialist, Carl Shusterman was a former INS Trial Attorney (197682) and has his private law office specializing exclusively in US Immigration Law, and as a topnotched Immigration Specialist, he has testified as an expert witness before the US Senate Immigration Subcommittee. Most recently, Carl Shusterman was featured in the 2018 edition of Super Lawyers Magazine. For further inquiries, please contact the oﬃce of Carl Schusterman, Monday through Friday at: Tel: 213/623-4592 or log on to his website at: www.shusterman.com.

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Why are Home Mortgage rates going up now?

NO one really seems to hear that mortgage rates have been on an upward trend recently. Since March 4, rates spiked above 3% for the first time in 7 months. The question now is, will interest rates keep going up? And by how much? But for those hoping to score a record-low rate, the window could be closing soon. If you are ready to buy or refinance, now might be the time to lock. Why are interest rates going up? Interest rates are going up because the economy is starting to have a more positive outlook on post-COVID recovery. Coronavirus has been the major force keeping mortgage rates low over the past year. The closer we get to widespread vaccination — and the better our economic outlook as a result — the higher rates will go. Although the U.S. is still at a critical stage with the virus, we are finally starting to see a path forward with the widespread rollout of vaccines and the passage of a $1.9 trillion relief bill championed by the Biden Administration. The 10-Year Treasury bond yields has the biggest influence on Mortgage rates A spike in investor interest in the 10Year Treasury as the economy cratered last year, combined with the Federal Reserve’s commitment to keep interest rates low, drove down 10-Year Treasury yields and mortgage rates. As the economy recovers and people regain confidence in other types of investments, the 10-Year Treasury will decline and mortgage rates will rise once again. The feds wants to raise rates to hedge inflation and to allow themselves a pathway later on to be able to spike the economy in case the worse happens. We don’t

want a Japan economy where rates are at zero and the Feds don’t have any option to lower rates to give the economy a shot in the arm to get better. How high will mortgage rates go in 2021? Since reaching a low point in January, mortgage rates have risen by more than 30 basis points. 30 basis points is equal to 0.30% — a difference of about $55 per month on a $350,000 mortgage. Interest rates could continue to rise this year, particularly if the Biden Administration is able to make good on its promise of supplying enough vaccines for every U.S. adult by May 2021. However, major housing agencies are still predicting only a modest rise, putting 30-year fixed-rate mortgages in the high 2% or low 3% range on average. As long as the pandemic forces the closure or reduced hours of businesses and strains the economy, it’s unlikely that mortgage rates will rise substantially. COVID vaccines will set the tone for mortgage interest rates Although the two might seem unrelated, the progress of COVID vaccinations is one of the biggest drivers behind mortgage rates right now. In theory, as more people get the vaccine and are able to safely eat at restaurants, travel, and attend large events, the economy will regain some of the momentum lost during the pandemic. However, a full recovery will take time, particularly if many opt not to get the vaccine due to fear of side effects. Should I try to buy a house while rates are low? Buying real estate is something you should decide based on your financ-

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es rather than what’s happening in the market. Home buyers should consider their credit score, savings, and the local housing market, and make a decision based on those factors rather than relatively small interest rate changes. Even if you wait to buy a home until your finances improve, you’re still looking at historically low mortgage rates. The important thing is to make sure you can afford monthly payments on the home you want, and to take a long-term view of what you’re paying. Establishing good credit, keeping non-mortgage debts low, and saving up for a larger down payment can also help you qualify for a competitive rate.

a little bit lower. Don’t worry if you’re not at the ratelock stage yet. The low-rate window for refinancing isn’t over. Mortgage rates are still near record lows and expected to stay there for the rest of 2021. If your current interest rate is in the 4-5% range or higher, you stand to save a lot even as rates are ticking up slightly. Instead of focusing on timing the market, focus on how a mortgage refinance could benefit you.

Should I lock a refinance rate? Homeowners should not go against trying to “time” the market or waiting to lock in a rate in the hopes that it might go

Thanks for your inquiries, please call Ken Go of 1st Innovative Finance Group 562-508-7048 or write to kennethgo@verizon.net CABRE 01021223 NMLS 238636

If you’re ready to lock, don’t wait If you are at a stage where you’re ready to lock a mortgage rate, we don’t recommend waiting for rates to fall back down to all-time lows.

Filing Bankruptcy: Lose Your Debt, Not Your Assets

FILING bankruptcy can be a big decision that most people put off until they realize that they have no other way out of debt. Unfortunately, however, sometimes people wait too long. When they finally do make the decision to file, they soon realize that they would actually have been better off if they had just acted sooner. What do I mean by this? Take the case of a couple who came to me for bankruptcy help. Five years ago, both husband and wife had at least $50,000 total saved in their 401K plans. They own a home and have 2 children. Their current credit card debts are now over $60,000 and they have not paid in months. Bill collectors are calling them several times a day and are threatening to sue and garnish their wages. But the credit card debts did not accumulate overnight. Just a few years ago, they owed no more than $20,000 on all of them combined so they were still quite manageable. Wife used to have 2 jobs but got laid off from one of them so their household income went down by at least 30%. With the demands of home ownership and raising two children, they were barely making minimum payments on their credit cards when wife was still working two jobs. Now with the reduction in income as a result of losing one job, it became impossible to even pay the minimums. So slowly over the last several years, they started using their credit cards not only to pay for basic living expenses but at times even using them to pay other debts! Once the credit cards were maxed out, this couple resorted next to borrowing from their 401K plans. As a result, they started taking home even less money as the 401K loan payments were automatically deducted from their paychecks every pay day. This strategy of juggling your debts every month, of course, does not and will not ever work. To get out of debt, you need to stop borrowing. You can never borrow your way out of debt. But a lot of people don’t realize that until they wake up one day and find themselves drowning in a sea of debt. And that’s not a good place to be. CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

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How to obtain Custody and Visitation Rights for Unmarried Dads

ESTABLISHING parentage rights for Moms is a lot easier than establishing one for unmarried Dads. Moms can establish this by simply showing proof of her having given birth to the child. Family Code §7610. Establishing parentage rights, including custody and visitation rights, becomes more problematic with unmarried Dads because proving yourself as the biological father does not automatically make you the natural father of the child. Under the family code, there are competing presumptions of paternity which allows the non biological father to be deemed the natural father of the child. A typical situation is when boyfriend gets girlfriend pregnant. Girlfriend for some reason decides to exclude boyfriend from baby's life so she breaks up with boyfriend, does not give the boyfriend any information about her delivery, and does not state the boyfriend as the father in the birth certificate or decides to name someone else as the father. Girlfriend does this because her parents disapprove of the ex boyfriend. One way a presumption of Paternity is created is by executing a voluntary declaration of paternity. A Voluntary declarations executed before 1997 give rise to a conclusive presumption of paternity and can be overcome only by blood or genetic tests ordered on noticed motion by the mother or presumed father must be made within three years of the date of execution of the voluntary declaration Family.Code. § 7576; Kevin Q. v. Lauren W. (2009) 175 CA4th 1119, 1133, 95 CR3d 477, 485 If the voluntary declaration of paternity is executed after 1996, it is not characterized as a conclusive presumption. Instead, it “shall establish the paternity of a child and shall have the same force and effect as a judgment for paternity issued by a court of competent jurisdiction” and trumps §7611 presumptions discussed below. A post 1996 voluntary declaration of paternity “shall be recognized as a basis for the

establishment of an order for child custody, visitation, or child support.” Family .Code §§ 7573, 7644; Kevin Q. v. Lauren W., supra, 175 CA4th at 1132, 95 CR3d at 485; In re J.L. (2008) 159 CA4th 1010, 1019, 72 CR3d 27, 33. Another way of establishing presumed father status is if you fall under any of the categories listed (a) to (f) under family code §7611: (a) He and the child's natural mother are or have been married to each other and the child is born during the marriage, or within 300 days after the marriage is terminated by death, annulment, declaration of invalidity, or divorce, or after a judgment of separation is entered by a court. (b) Before the child's birth, he and the child's natural mother have attempted to marry each other by a marriage solemnized in apparent compliance with law, although the attempted marriage is or could be declared invalid, and either of the following is true: (1) If the attempted marriage could be declared invalid only by a court, the child is born during the attempted marriage, or within 300 days after its termination by death, annulment, declaration of invalidity, or divorce. (2) If the attempted marriage is invalid without a court order, the child is born within 300 days after the termination of cohabitation. (c) After the child's birth, he and the child's natural mother have married, or attempted to marry, each other by a marriage solemnized in apparent compliance with law, although the attempted marriage is or could be declared invalid, and either of the following is true: (1) With his consent, he is named as the child's father on the child's birth certificate. (2) He is obligated to support the child under a written voluntary promise or by court order. (d) He receives the child into his home

MINDING YOUR FINANCES… FROM PAGE 6 To make a long story short, here they are 5 years later. From $20,000, their credit card debts have now gone up to $60,000. They not only owe more than twice as much as they did just a few years ago but they’ve also used up all their retirement money! Now this couple is already in their 50’s and while they may still have about 15 years left until they retire, I told them that using their retirement money to pay their debts was probably not one of the smartest decisions they’ve made. Your retirement money may be the only asset you have when you retire. It is best to keep it intact for your later years. As a bankruptcy attorney, I’ve seen people drain their life savings, cash out their 401K’s and IRA’s and sell everything that they’ve worked so hard for once they find themselves in financial hot water. I understand that and realize that as much as possible, they want to avoid having a bankruptcy on their credit record. But the truth of the matter is that in a lot of cases, you really don’t need to lose everything you’ve so hard for. See, filing for bankruptcy protection can often be a good legal strategy to preserve your assets while trying to regain control of your finances. It is needless and unfortunate to lose everything you have before taking action if bankruptcy is in fact the best solution for your situation. Bankruptcy can be your chance for a fresh start, not the end of the world. If you think that bankruptcy may be eventually unavoidable for you, speak with a knowledgeable and experienced bankruptcy now, not later. Don’t wait until your financial problems are overwhelming before you take action. For a free evaluation of your case, please call our office at Toll-Free 1-866477-7772 to schedule a free consultation. ***NOTE: Due to the virus lockdown, I am currently offering consultations via phone or video. Please call the office to schedule your appointment with me. Questions? Email me at gethelp@ rjb-lawoffices.com. (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).

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and openly holds out the child as his natural child. (e) If the child was born and resides in a nation with which the United States engages in an Orderly Departure Program or successor program, he acknowledges that he is the child's father in a declaration under penalty of perjury, as specified in Section 2015.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure. This subdivision shall remain in effect only until January 1, 1997, and on that date shall become inoperative. (f) The child is in utero after the death of the decedent and the conditions set forth in Section 249.5 of the Probate Code are satisfied. An alleged biological father who does not meet any of the § 7611 conditions for presumed father status has no constitutionally-protected “liberty interest” in establishing a parentage relationship with a child as against the rights of a presumptive father who has an extant parentage relationship with the child. Dawn D. v. Super.Ct. (Jerry K.) (1998) 17 C4th 932, 940–942, 72 CR2d 871, 876–877 The facts get even more complicated if the girlfriend, whom boyfriend gets pregnant is married to another man because the law provides a conclusive presumption of paternity to the husband of the girlfriend. Under Family Code §7540, the child of a wife cohabiting at time of conception with her husband, who is not impotent or sterile, is “conclusively” presumed to be a child of the marriage. This conclusive presumption may be challenged by showing that the husband was sterile. It may also be challenged by filing a motion for blood or genetic testing under Family Code §7541 but this has to be done within 2 years of the childs birth. In addition, only persons with standing can bring this motion which is limited to the husband, child, mother and a presumed father as listed in Family Code §7611 and 7612. Even absent a recognized rebuttal, the court has discretion as a matter of due process not to apply § 7540 conclusive presumption of paternity when it would not further the statute's underlying policies of preserving the integrity and stability of an extant marital family, protecting children from the stigma of

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“illegitimacy,” and promoting individual rather than State responsibility for child support ... as where the ostensible § 7540 presumptive father never developed a parental relationship with the child and the only established parent-child relationship is with a third person. Brian C. v. Ginger K. (2000) 77 CA4th 1198, 1200–1201, 92 CR2d 294, 296; In re Kiana A. (2001) 93 CA4th 1109, 1115, 113 CR2d 669, 675. Procedurally, the ex boyfriend should file a Petition for Parentage as soon as the child is born. While the case is pending, the ex boyfriend may seek temporary visitation order although this may be on a limited or even monitored basis. If successful in proving parentage, the ex boyfriend may be granted custody and visitation rights. However, the ex boyfriend would also have the obligation of paying child support based on California guidelines. Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation. Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APLC is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 3881611 or e-mail Kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com

global NEWS GLOBAL NEWS CAREGIVERS: Are you ready to claim your overtime in 2021?

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OVER the past few years, the attorneys at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson have had the honor of informing hundreds of caregivers about the specific overtime laws that protect caregivers from being overworked and underpaid. Many of these caregivers decided to call us after reading articles on Weekend Balita or finding us on Facebook. https://w w w.facebook. com/caregiverovertime/. These are some of our favorite calls to receive. And, as a result of these calls, we have been able to help hundreds of caregivers recover millions in unpaid overtime. We would have been able to help many more caregivers. But the truth is that some caregivers who have suffered wage theft, and been exploited by their employers, do not want to pursue their claims. We have recognized several common fears that prevent caregivers from taking action. If you have been thinking about making an overtime claim, or calling to get more information, please do not hesitate to call us. We want to hear from you. Here are some of the most common concerns we hear from caregivers and the reasons why these concerns should not prevent you from seeking the overtime compensation you deserve. 1. “I Feel Obligated To My Patient.” By nature, caregivers are typically caring people. Many private employers take advantage of a caregiver’s compassionate nature and do not pay a fair wage. Many caregivers feel a sense of loyalty or obligation towards their employers that make them reluctant to pursue valid claims. While these are noble sentiments, it does not change the fact that caregivers who are paid less than the legally required wages are victims of wage theft. In fact, many people who hire inhome caregivers are financially able to pay for caregiving services as required by law, but simply choose not to because they want to save money. We often see the children of elderly patients making efforts to preserve their own inheritance by taking advantage of caregivers. The truth is that the family members are obligated to ensure their loved ones

employee and withhold state and federal income taxes. If this has not happened, the employer has also violated the law. 5. “I Do Not Have A Social Security Number.” You do not need a social security number to recover overtime wages from your employer. If you succeed in your unpaid overtime claim, Chaleff Rehwald Peterson can help you get an ITIN that can be used to pay the taxes owed. are adequately cared for. It is not a caregiver’s obligation to provide care in exchange for a wage that is less than what the law requires. 2. “I Am Afraid Of The Court System And Having A Lawsuit.” Many private employers refuse to pay caregivers overtime because they believe caregivers are unsophisticated and will not be able to file a legal claim. The legal process can be intimidating and confusing. But that is why the lawyers at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson are here to help. We know the law and stand ready to help. 3. “I Signed A Document Stating I Am An Independent Contractor.” It is unlikely that an in-home caregiver is an independent contractor even if there is a signed a document that purports to identity them as a contractor. Still, it is common for private employers to try to convince caregivers they are independent contractors because it is much less costly and much more advantageous for them. The reality is that many private employers misclassify caregivers as independent contractors to avoid paying overtime and other employee benefits. 4. “I Did Not Pay Taxes on The Wages I Did Receive.” While we recommend that our clients pay all taxes owed for the wages received, if a caregiver has not paid taxes on wages, the caregiver still has the legal right to seek the overtime wages due. It is the employer’s obligation to properly classify the

6. “I Am Concerned About Immigration Status.” California law permits undocumented workers to recover unpaid overtime wages. In our experience, our undocumented clients have not suffered any serious adverse effect from presenting an overtime claim. While we cannot guarantee no problem will arise, we believe the benefit in recovering unpaid overtime far outweighs the risk. Also, we have a relationship with an immigration attorney that can review and possibly assist with your specific immigration situation. 7. “I Do Not Want A Long Court Battle, and May Leave the Country.” Most cases settle without going to court, and many cases settle within a matter of a few months to a year. We regularly help caregivers who return to their home countries while the case is ongoing and keep in contact with us via the phone and internet. Because the laws are so strong in favor of the caregiver, most employers seek an early settlement of claims. If you are working as a caregiver and you are not paid overtime when working more than 9 hours a day, or 45 hours a week, you should consult with CHALEFF REHWALD PETERSON to discuss your rights. We are here to help. With the penalties, interest, and attorney’s fees allowed, claims can exceed $200,000 for 24-hour caregivers who have worked just one year. Even if you have only worked three to six months, you likely have a valuable claim.

This article is an attorney advertisement written by Daniel Chaleff, employment law attorney at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson. Our office is located at 5855 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Suite 400, Woodland Hills, California. We accept cases throughout all of Northern and Southern California. Our examples are of a general nature and are not a guarantee regarding the outcome of your individual matter. The law firm focuses on caregiver rights. Please call us at (818) 807-4168 for a free and confidential consultation. Please visit us at www.caregiverovertime.com/ to learn more about caregiver overtime law. We offer a 24-hour chat line on our website.

Philippine Navy to partner with French Navy in creating submarine force — Bacordo CabSec Nograles defends gov't The Flag Officer In C ommand held a bilateral meeting with Admiral Pierre Vandier, the Chief of Naval Staff for the Marine Nationale at Ecole’Militaire’ Paris, France. Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo J. Bacordo PN was formally welcomed and briefed with the thrust and direction of the French Navy. Further, the Staff-to-Staff discussions on French submarine organization and capability concept has provided important inputs of utmost consideration in the establishment of Philippine Navy’s Submarine Force. Joining Vice Admiral Bacordo during the bilateral talks are Capt Edwin M Nera, Commander, Submarine Group and Capt Emerson C David, Director, PN Modernization Office. Significantly, the Chief of the French Navy has expressed support in the efforts of the PN in capability development, wherein their Directorate for General Armaments (DGA) and Défense Conseil international (DCI) can assist for the aspects of acquisition and training, respectively. (MNS photo)

from 'back to square one' remarks

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The French Navy has committed to assist the Philippine Navy in the creation of a submarine force, Philippine Navy chief Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said on Tuesday. Bacordo said they have enabled a high-level engagement between the two Navies in terms of naval cooperation and other interests during the bilateral meeting on March 12 in Paris with French Navy officials led by Admiral Pierre Vandier, chief of Naval Staff for the Marine Nationale. “Most importantly, the French Navy committed to assist the Philippine Navy in the creation of a submarine force especially

in terms of training and project management,” he said. Aside from this, Bacordo said they have agreed to continue the Navy Senior Leaders visits and the conduct of regular Navy to Navy discussion to develop future cooperation and partnerships. The French and Philippine Navies will also participate in bilateral and multilateral naval exercises, he added. “By and large, the opportunity for interaction paved the way for the development of close and cordial relations between the two navies which could result to strategic partnership in the maritime domain,” he said. (MNS)

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles on Thursday defended the government from claims that the country is back to square one in its COVID-19 response due to the recent surge in the number of infections. Nograles insisted that the "protocols are working." "But we have to remember that even in other countries, COVID-19 comes in waves," Nograles said. Critics have pounced on the government for its alleged failure to properly address the pandemic even after a year of restrictions. The number of active COVID-19 cases has breached 61,000 while the number of new infections recorded this month is 2.5 times higher than in January based on Department of Health records. Nograles pointed out that addressing the pandemic is "a delicate balance between health and economy." "There are ups and downs in this battle. Why? Because it is a delicate balance between health and economy. To prevent transmission, you prevent movement of people. But to open the econo-

my, you need movement of people," he said. "At the end of the day, it is on us to follow the protocols." The government has time and again called on the public to stay at home as much as possible and practice minimum health protocols like the wearing of face mask and face shield, frequent handwashing, and observing physical distancing. "All we can do [in the government] is enforce protocols, but we cannot see everything 24/7, 100% of the time, what an individual does. It is impossible,” Nograles said. "The general population outnumbers law enforcers, so it really belongs to us to stem the tide and trim the infection by following health protocols,” he added. Former Health Secretary Esperanza Cabral earlier said the country is now "10 steps back" from square one compared with March 2020 with over 61,000 active COVID-19 cases and with the government and private sector not in the position to spend for a second round of subsidies again just like when the full scale lockdown was imposed a year ago. (MNS)

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It’s like a sin to think of elections amid COVID-19 pandemic — Robredo MANILA (Mabuhay) — Vice President Leni Robredo on Tuesday said it was like a sin to tackle elections during the COVID-19 pandemic, which had infected more than 600,000 Filipinos nationwide. “Wala pa. Parang kasalanan isipin iyong eleksyon ngayon, dahil ang daming naghihirap, ang taas ng cases. Parang huwag muna. Marami pang puwedeng mangyari,” Robredo told reporters during her visit to the Uswag Iloilo City Molecular Laboratory. “Marami pang puwedeng mangyari. Parang kapag inisip natin iyong eleksyon ngayon, hindi natin magagawa iyong trabaho natin,” she added. Robredo said she must first do her part to address the COVID-19 crisis before tackling plans for the 2022 elections. “Siguro kung eleksyon na iyong iniisip ko, magpapatawag ako ng maraming tao para hindi sayang iyong baba. So iyon nga, trabaho muna saka itong COVID response iyong asikasuhin natin,” the Vice President pointed out. Robredo had previously said she would consider running for local office after her term as vice president ends in 2022. On Tuesday, the Department of Health reported 631,320 total cases of COVID-19 in the country, including 57,736 active cases, 560,736 recoveries and 12,848 deaths. (MNS)

VICE PRESIDENT LENI ROBREDO

Duterte signs laws creating 5 new independent schools M A NIL A (Mabu hay) — P resident Rod r igo Duterte has signed laws converting five schools into independent schools. Duterte signed Republic Acts 11527, 11528, 11529, 11530, and 11531 on March 12. R A 11527 separates the Tabuk City National High School-Bantay E x tension i n Tabu k City, Kalinga from the Tabuk Cit y National High School. “The Tabuk City Nat iona l H ig h School Bantay Extension in Barangay Bantay, Tabuk City, Province of Kalinga is hereby separated from the Tabuk City National High School and converted into an independent national high school to be known as Bantay National High School,” according to RA 11527. Und e r R A 1152 8 , Guinzadan National Hig h School-Mayag Extension in Bauko, Mountain Province is renamed as Mayag National High School after being separated from the Guinzadan National High School. A n o t h e r l a w, R A 11529, cha nges t he name of Lubon Nation-

al High School-Mabalite Extension in Tadian, Mountain Province into Mabalite National High School after Duterte decided to convert it into an independent national high school. R A 11530 also converts Dalanao Elementar y School-Dabburab-Dalanao Extension in Bacarri village in Paracelis, Mountain Province into an independent elementary school and will now be known as Wellie Maclinic Elementary School. Guina-Ang National High School-Mainit Extension in Bontoc, Mounta in Prov ince, according to RA 11531, is now converted into a n independent national high school and renamed as Mainit National High School. The laws mandate the transfer of all personnel, assets, liabilities and records of the schools. The Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd) is also required to include in the Department’s program the operationalization of the schools, the initial funding of which shall be charged aga i nst t he cu r rent year’s appropriation of

the schools. “ T h e r e a f t e r, t h e amount necessary for the continued operation of the school[s] shall be included in the General Appropriations Act,” the laws read. The DepEd Secretary is also tasked to formulate the implementing rules and regulations within 120 days after the approval of the laws. R A s 11527, 11528, 11529, 11530, and 11531 take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. Duterte also signs RA 11526 on March 12, renaming Pag-asa National High School in Rawis village in Legazpi City, Albay to Legazpi National High School. “The main campus of the Legazpi City National High School shall continue to remain in its present location in Barangay Rawis, City of Legazpi, Province of Albay,” the law, which also takes effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation, said. Palace released a copy of the laws on Wednesday. (MNS)

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Gov’t ‘adamant’ to help 81% Pinoys fulﬁll dreams to own house

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) on Wednesday said the government remains firm to help 81 percent of Filipinos achieve their dreams to have their own house. Housing Secretary Eduardo del Rosario made this statement as he signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla for the establishment of DHSUD’s regional office inside the Government Center in Palo, Leyte. Del Rosario said the move is part of the housing department's plans "to intensify the provision of sustainable housing programs for all Filipinos." “DHSUD remains adamant on fulfilling the dreams of 81 percent of Filipinos who wish to have a house of their own,” he said. He earlier conducted a three-day official visit in the Eastern Visayas to engage local government units (LGUs) in carrying out DHSUD’s mandate of providing more resilient, sustainable, and affordable housing communities

to Filipinos, especially to the underprivileged. DHSUD targets to deliver quality housing projects to the people, particularly those low-income earners, he said. “We should step up the ease of doing the business process in securing housing permits and licenses in our department,” del Rosario told DHSUD personnel in the region. “The accreditation and license to sell could prevent the developer from building a substandard housing project.” DHSUD said it is now finalizing a 20-year housing and urban development strategic plan and roadmap aimed at providing adequate and affordable housing units for all Filipinos. Del Rosario reiterated that part of their national housing strategic plan is to make sure that no substandard housing project will be built in the country. DHSUD is also keen on eliminating illegal transactions on the issuance of licenses and permits within the housing sector. (MNS)

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Drilon: SC recognized that President’s powers on foreign policy have limits MANILA (Mabuhay) — As far as Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon is concerned, the recent Supreme Court ruling in connection with the Philippines' withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC) showed that there are limitations on the power of the President with respect to foreign policy. Dr i lon made t he rema rk a f ter the high court dismissed the petitions challenging President Rodrigo Duterte’s decision to withdraw the Philippines from the ICC, which is looking into allegations of abuse in his war on drugs. “While the Supreme Court dismissed the petition questioning the validity of the Philippine government’s withdrawal from the Rome Statute for being moot and academic, the High Court acknowledged the limitations on the power of the President as chief architect of foreign policy,” Drilon said in a statement. Drilon was among the opposition senators who filed the petition, along with Senators Francis Pangilinan, Risa Hontiveros, and Leila De Lima, and former Senators Bam Aquino and Antonio Trillanes IV. According to the SC Public Information Office (PIO), the justices voted unanimously to junk the petitions for being moot. The Philippines formally exited the Rome Statute, which established the ICC, on March 17, 2019. “The decision acknowledged that the President, as primary architect of foreign policy, is subject to the Constitution and existing statute,” the SC PIO said. “Therefore, the power of the President to withdraw unilaterally can be limited by the conditions for concurrence by the Senate or when there is an existing law which authorizes the negotiation of a treaty or international agreement or when there is a statute that implements an existing treaty,”

it added. Drilon said this is a clear recognition that the power of the President regarding foreign policy has limitations. “Most striking is the acknowledgement that the power of the President to withdraw ‘unilaterally’ can be subject to limitations by the Senate,” he added.

The Philippines’ decision to leave the ICC came shortly after the ICC Office of the Prosecutor said in February 2018 that it would examine drug war-related allegations against Duterte to determine if it has jurisdiction to investigate. A group of opposition senators and the Philippine Coalition for the ICC

then questioned the withdrawal before the SC, claiming it was unconstitutional because it lacked approval by the Senate. The withdrawal, however, will not stop ongoing proceedings in relation to Duterte, which cover alleged incidents that occurred before the exit. (MNS)

Watchdog's first Philippine human rights report calls on UNHRC, ICC for more actions MANILA (Mabuhay) — The first report of the Independent International Commission of Investigation into Human Rights Violations in the Philippines (Investigate PH) is recommending more actions from international authorities. Based on its 198-page report, Investigate PH recommends that the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHRC) should urge its member states and agencies to use its mechanisms to address the "human rights crisis" in the country. It adds that the UNHRC needs to create commissions of inquiry, fact-finding missions, or investigations to help improve the situation, exert accountability, and deliver justice to victims. Investigate PH also asks the International Criminal Court (ICC) to receive initial and succeeding reports from the global probe and “expedite the process of bringing the preliminary examination to a conclusion.” The report says the human rights violations by state forces became more institutionalized, orchestrated, and entrenched with the establishment of several programs by the government. These programs, it says, include the drug war, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, the Anti-Terrorism Act, and the supposed militarized response to COVID-19. Investigative PH said the remedies

for many cases of human right violations in the Philippines are "insufficient and illusory" amid the "deepening human rights crisis." “There is a sense of urgency here. The killings and degradation of human dignity are escalating as seen in the Report,” said Investigate PH Commissioner Rev. Dr. Susan Henry-Crowe of the General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church. “The UNHRC and the world has to rise to the challenge of putting an end to this. We have to act now and save innocent lives while we still can,” she added. The report identifies 10 indicators for the supposed failure of domestic remedies on the human rights crisis in the Philippines: obstruction of state authorities on investigations investigations of violations are not impartial available mechanisms for civilians to hold police and military accountable are failing court protections are inaccessible, slow, and discriminatory; government’s NTF-ELCAC constricts recourse to government agencies; counter-insurgency activities are targeting lawyers, denying victims access to independent counsel; efforts to challenge unjust laws

through legal channels are being dismissed in court or repressed; opposition political voices providing a check on the armed forces and executive power have been eliminated from the Supreme Court and Congress independent institutions and alternative platforms for accountability have been eviscerated or made practically inoperative; even when remedies are secured, they are inadequate justice. The report and recommendations of Investigate PH were presented to UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet in Geneva on Monday. In December last year, a coalition of international human rights, faith, and civic groups announced it is conducting an "independent, people-led" investigation of human rights violations in the Philippines. https://w w w.gmanetwork.com/ news/news/nation/768410/coalition-launches-independent-people-led-probe-of-human-rights-violations-in-philippines/story/ Investigate PH aims to further substantiate the United Nations human rights office's report on the rights situation in the country earlier this year. The global probe said it intends to present its findings to the ICC and UN bodies like the Human Rights Council, the Security Council, and the General Assembly. (MNS)

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Local air carriers bat for increased accommodations for inbound passengers, nix cutdown on arrivals MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Air Carriers Association of the Philippines (ACAP) raised concern over the recent government decision to suspend the entry of foreign nationals and returning overseas Filipinos who are non-OFWs into the country and to limit the number of inbound international passengers to 1,500 a day, as this could further hurt the already distressed airline industry. During the Senate committee on banks and financial institutions’ hearing on the Government Financial Institutions Unified Initiatives to Distressed Enterprises for Economic Recovery (GUIDE) bill Wednesday, ACAP vice chairman Roberto Lim said the local aviation industry has incurred an estimated loss of P65 billion last year due to travel restriction amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Lim added that local airlines have already terminated 33% of its employees, equivalent to about 5,000 workers. “With the recent surge, there are again additional restrictions...,” he said. He was referring to the National Task Force Against COVID-19’s (NTF) directive to suspend the entry of foreign nationals and returning non-OFWs as well as the reduction in international passenger arrivals at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to a maximum of 1,500 passengers per day.

The said measures were aimed at preventing a further rise in COVID-19 cases and to prevent the entry of coronavirus variants from other countries. Lim, however, said this is not the solution. “The solution really is to provide more accommodation because we are now requiring a quarantine of five days which uses up the accommodation,” he said. “The solution is [increasing] accom-

modation not cutting down airline capacity artificially,” he added. Under the NTF’s directive, the following individuals are exempted from the entry ban: - Holders of 9(c) visas - Medical repatriation and their escort/s duly endorsed by the DFA-OUMWA or OWWA - Distressed ROFs duly endorsed by DFA-OUMWA - Emergency, humanitarian, and other analogous cases approved by the NTF-COVID-19 In a separate text message, Lim said there has been a shortage of rooms since international passengers are required to be quarantined for at least five days. “Ideally, the government solution is to look and provide more rooms/ enroll more hotels and facilities. But the approach has been to cut down international pax arrivals,” he told GMA News Online. During the Senate hearing, Lim reiterated the local airlines’ appeal for government credit guarantee. “We hope and urge the Senate to intervene in terms of loan guarantees, which is the easiest way to mitigate the issue,” he said, suggesting that his proposal could be added to the GUIDE bill. “We look forward for the expanded version of the measure... for the Bureau of the Treasury, Land Bank of the Philippines, Development Bank of the Philippines, and Department of Finance to provide us with loan guarantees so that private banks who are very skittish to lending more money to an injured industry will actually open their credit facility to us,” Lim said. Local carriers earlier sought for the government to provide a credit guarantee scheme that guarantees the banking sector’s loans and credit lines, most of which are secured under collaterals, to remove its aversion to the poor credit risk of airline industry under the present operating environment. (MNS)

Palawan remains one province after ‘No’ votes prevail MANILA (Mabuhay) — Palawan will remain as one province after more than 172,000 residents voted to reject the proposal to divide it into three different provinces. On Tuesday a f ternoon, the Provincial Board of Canvassers (PBOC) proclaimed the victory of “No” votes after canvassing 22 of the 23 municipalities’ certificates of canvass. “On the basis of the foregoing, we hereby proclaim to ratify the division of the province of Palawan pursuant to Republic Act No. 11259 was rejected and disapproved on the basis of the votes cast in the province of Palawan on March 13, 2021,” the PBOC said in the deci-

sion. Based on the official partial results, a total of 172,304 Palaweños voted “no” for the ratification of Republic Act (RA) 11259, or the Act Dividing the Province of Palawan into three provinces namely: Palawan Oriental, Palawan del Norte, and Palawan del Sur. A total of 122,223 residents voted “yes”, with a difference of 50,081 votes. “The No votes got the highest, thereby, rejecting the division of Palawan into three prov inces,” A ntonio K h o, C om m i s s i oner-i n-cha r ge of t he March 13 plebiscite, said in a media interview after the PBOC made the announcement.

Kho thanked the people who participated and those who assisted them in holding the referendum. “We’d li ke to congratulate the voters for participating actively in this vote. Based on the estimates we have achieved a 60 percent voters’ t u r nout,” he said. “We’d like also to extend our appreciation and thanks to the teachers, who participated, who helped us conduct this election. Our peace officers and security officers from the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) as well as the police.” He also thanked the hea lt h professiona ls who joined the election amid the threat of the Covid-19 pandemic.

StaySafe.PH acquisition issues to be resolved by March 22 — Magalong MANILA (Mabuhay) — Contact tracing czar and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong on Tuesday said the problems over the government obtaining the StaySafe.PH app from developer Multisys Technologies Corp. will be resolved by March 22. At the Laging Handa public briefing, Magalong said the delay in the turnover of the contact tracing app stemmed from the condition set by the government that the developer should first complete the system. Aside from this, the government also wanted Multisys to cut its link to the app once it was obtained. “It looks like, hindi nangyari ‘yun,” he said. “This is something na nire-resolve namin. During my talk with {National Telehealth Center Director] Dr. Raymond Sarmiento, binanggit niya sa akin na mare-resolve ito by March 22, hopefully,” he added. Asked about the threat of using the application against people critical of the government, Magalong said the public should be assured that the application will comply with data privacy. Last year, Multisys assured its users that they would not be monitored through the application’s geolocation feature. The StaySafe.ph System will be utilized as MAYOR the primary contact tracing system in the BENJAMIN country. Other contact tracing apps will also MAGALONG be integrated into this system. (MNS)

Kho said the Commission on Election has delivered a promise by counting the votes correctly. “A s we prom i sed, Comelec will count the vote correctly and we have delivered a promise. Our next election will be bigger in 2022,” he added. Only 22 of the 23 municipalities’ certificates

of votes have been canvassed. The PBOC did not wait for the certificate of votes from the municipality of Kalayaan islands after the oppositor has filed a motion to terminate canvass, in view of the insurmountable lead enjoyed by the “no” votes. The proponents also joined the motion. The canvass reports

that have been received and canvassed are from the municipalities of Narra, Brooke’s Point, El Nido, Aborlan, Sofronio Española, Rizal, Bataraza, San Vicente, Taytay, Roxas, Balabac, Quezon, Dumaran, Araceli, Linapacan, Coron, Culion, Busuanga, Cagayancillo, Ag utaya, Cuyo and Magsaysay. (MNS)

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Carpio-led coalition to field unified opposition slate in 2022 elections MANILA (Mabuhay) — Several anti-administration forces on Thursday vowed to field a unified opposition ticket in the May 2022 national elections. Led by retired Supreme Court justice Antonio Carpio, the newly formed coalition “1Sambayan” aims to come up with a single slate of national candidates — president, vice president, 12 senators — who will run against President Rodrigo Duterte’s preferred successor and his other bets. At a news conference following the launch, Carpio said they already had initial discussions with possible candidates for president or vice president: Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, Senators Nancy Binay and Grace Poe, Vice President Leni Robredo, and former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV. “We are prepared to accept suggestions and nominations from everyone. So we are not foreclosing the candidates that we will consider and we will go through the process,” he said. The coalition’s vetting process includes surveys and interviews of potential candidates. These individuals will be screened based on their track record, stand on important issues, policy platform, and competence. 1Sambayan’s convenors and supporters include Carpio, former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales, former Education secretary Armin Luistro, former Foreign Affairs secretary Albert del Rosario, former Commission on Audit commissioner Heidi Mendoza, National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers chairman Neri Colmenares, Magdalo party-list, and some labor groups, among others. Carpio indicated that the coalition’s diversity will not prevent it from achieving its objective. “All those who have joined the coalition have agreed to respect the decision of the convenors on who will

Convenors pose during the launching of 1Sambayan in Makati City on Thursday, March 18, 2021. Led by retired Supreme Court justice Antonio Carpio, 1Sambayan is a broad coalition of democratic forces representing the broad spectrum of legitimate political persuasions in the Philippines that aims to usher in a competent trustworthy administration in the May 2022 elections by fielding a single slate of president, vice president and 12 senators. DANNY PATA/GMA NEWS

be the candidates of the democratic forces,” he said. “This is the understanding of everybody that unless we are united we cannot win in 2022.” Colmenares added: “Many of us are here today precisely because we are unified that the issue of 2022 elections, when another Duterte comes into power, will be substantially affecting our survival as a nation.” In a video message, Carpio slammed the Duterte administration’s “mishandling” of the COVID-19 pandemic, South China Sea policy, moves to amend the 1987 Constitution, and alleged threats against businesses, media entities and critics. The government also faced allegations of abuse in its war on drugs. “The Filipino people deserve a better government,” Carpio said. “There are Filipino leaders who can

SC junks pleas vs. Philippines' exit from ICC MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday dismissed the petitions challenging President Rodrigo Duterte’s decision to withdraw the Philippines from the International Criminal Court (ICC), which is looking into allegations of abuse in his war on drugs. According to the SC Public Information Office, the justices voted unanimously to junk the petitions for being moot. The Philippines formally exited the Rome Statute, which established the ICC, on March 17, 2019. “The decision acknowledged that the President, as primary architect of foreign policy, is subject to the Constitution and existing statute,” the SC PIO said. “Therefore, the power of the President to withdraw unilaterally can be limited by the conditions for concurrence by the Senate or when there is an existing law which authorizes the negotiation of a treaty or international agreement or when there is a statute that implements an existing treaty.” The decision, penned by Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, also said the “judiciary has enough powers to protect human rights contrary to speculations raised by the petitioners.” The Philippines' decision to leave the ICC came shortly after the ICC Office of the Prosecutor said in Feb-

ruary 2018 that it would examine drug war-related allegations against Duterte to determine if it has jurisdiction to investigate. A group of opposition senators and the Philippine Coalition for the ICC then questioned the withdrawal before the SC, claiming it was unconstitutional because it lacked approval by the Senate. The withdrawal, however, will not stop ongoing proceedings in relation to Duterte, which cover alleged incidents that occurred before the exit. Last December, outgoing ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda concluded that there was a basis to believe that crimes against humanity were committed in the course of the campaign. Her office said she would decide whether to seek authorization from the ICC to open an investigation within the first half of 2021. Duterte has repeatedly said that the ICC has no jurisdiction over him. (MNS)

do a much better job of running the government, reviving the economy, creating jobs for our people, and defending our territory and sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea.” Duterte remains popular despite criticisms of his policies and statements. He has yet to anoint a potential successor although he recently said that his former longtime aide and confidante, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, wants the top job. Go said he was not eyeing the presidency, adding he might only change his mind if Duterte will run as vice president. Some of Duterte’s colleagues in the ruling PDP-Laban party have already urged him to run for vice president, but the party’s acting national president and Senator Manny Pacquiao said the move did not have the party’s blessing. (MNS)

PH prelates back Vatican's 'no blessing' for same-sex unions MANILA (Mabuhay) — Prelates in the country on Tuesday reiterated the Church's stand opposing same-sex unions. “We are just affirming the teaching of the Church regarding marriage. It is the union of man and woman,” said Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco in an interview. Meanwhile, Cat holic Bishops Conference of the Philippines-Permanent Committee on Public Affairs (CBCP-PCPA) executive secretary Fr. Jerome Secillano said priests are not expected to bless same-sex couples. “Same-sex relationships are not permitted by the church. So, it's simply logical that priests are not supposed to give blessings to same-sex unions,” he said. Secillano said doing so will make it appear that the Church recognizes same-sex unions. On Monday, the Vatican's top doctrine office, the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith, said the Church will not bless same-sex unions citing that God "does not and cannot bless sin". "Furthermore, since blessings on persons are in relationship with the sacraments, the blessing of homosexual unions cannot be considered licit. This is because they would constitute a certain imitation or analogue of the nuptial blessing invoked on the man and woman united in the sacrament of Matrimony, while in fact 'there are absolutely no grounds for considering homosexual unions to be in any way similar or even remotely analogous to God’s plan for marriage and family'," it said. (MNS)

PNP-Maritime Group gets P3.65-M equipment from US M A NIL A (Mabu hay) — The United States government has turned over PHP3.65 million worth of equipment to strengthen the country's maritime law enforcement capability, the US Embassy in Manila said Tuesday. The donation, which includes 12 sets of scuba gear, underwater evidence collection items, and some related training equipment, would support the ongoing Underwater Crime Scene Investigation program Wa sh i ng ton f u nded since 2016. The equipment was turned over to the Philippine Nat iona l Police-Maritime Group (PNP-MG) on Mar. 15. The Embassy's director for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Kelia Cummins said this is the latest assistance provided to Manila over the course of a "long and productive relationship" between US government partners and the PNPMG. PNP-MG director Po-

The Philippine National Police-Maritime Group Director, Brig. Gen. John Jamili (left), shows the donated equipment alongside US Embassy in the Philippines Director for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Kelia Cummins. The US government donated PHP3.65 million worth of equipment on March 15, 2021 to strengthen the country's maritime law enforcement capabilities. (MNS photo)

lice Brig. Gen. John Jamili, meanwhile, welcomed the continued cooperation between the Philippines and the US government to expand the agency's capabilities. The PNP-MG has previously partnered with the US Joint Interagency Task Force West (JIATF West), America's counter-narcotics task force in the Indo-Pacific re-

gion, to open several patrol boat facilities throughout the southern Philippines. I n 2 019, t he t w o opened a PNP-MG patrol boat facility worth USD2 million (approximately PHP100 million) in Lantawan, Basilan. The facility includes a boat ramp, pier, armory, offices, barracks, and a laboratory. (MNS)

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99k to 149k MSMEs expected to close permanently after year of lockdown — IBON M A NIL A (Mabuhay) — Some 99,800 to 149,700 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMES) are expected to shut down permanently as the country’s economy was badly hit due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, research group IBON Foundation said Wednesday. Citing surveys from the International Trade Center, World Bank, the United Nations Development Program and the Department of Labor and Employment, IBON said 10% to 15% of 998,342 MSMEs nationwide will likely permanently close after one year of community quarantine in the Philippines. Despite the anticipated closure, IBON said only 28,000 of the businesses received loans from Bayanihan 1 and Bayanihan 2, laws that provide assistance to those adversely affected by the health crisis. “Yet under Bayanihan 1 (Bayanihan to Heal as One Act) and Bayanihan 2 (Bayanihan to Recover as One Act), loans were reportedly released to only about 28,000 MSMEs,” said IBON. Over 30 lawmakers sought to investigate the unreleased funds of Bayanihan 2, which is expected to revive the Philippine economy and provide relief for those devastated by the pandemic. President Rodrigo Duterte previously signed the law that extends

the validity of Bayanihan 2 until the end of June this year that provides a multi-billion peso COVID-19 relief package and the 2020 national budget. The Philippines' gross domestic product in 2020 reached -9.5%, the worst full year based performance since 1947, as per the Philippine Statistics Authority data. (MNS)

DA, LandBank sign P15-B lending program MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Agriculture (DA) and Land Bank of the Philippines on Wednesday officially signed a memorandum of agreement for the PHP15-billion lending program for the swine industry. “LandBank is supporting the DA by extending financing support to hog enterprises to sustain their operations and pork supply during this difficult time. Through the LandBank SWINE Lending Program, we aim to respond to the recover y requirements of our hog industry and contribute to ensuring food security,” LandBank president and CEO Cecilia Borromeo said during the launch and signing ceremony.

The LandBank SWINE (Special Window and Interim Support to Nurture Hog Enterprises) Lending Program will be available for commercial hog raisers registered as cooperatives or farmers’ associations, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and large enterprises or corporations. During his presentation, DA Undersecretary for Livestock William Medrano said the loans under the program shall be utilized for swine production, which includes the acquisition or importation of semen or breeding animals; feed milling operations; the construction, improvement or retrofitting of necessary facilities that are compliant to biosecurity protocols of DA, the indus-

try or integrators; acquisition of fixed assets; and as working capital. "Eligible borrowers may avail of a short-term loan line or a term loan for up to 80 percent of their total project cost or financing requirement, with an affordable fixed interest rate of 3 percent per annum for three years, subject to annual repricing thereafter," he said. Under t he prog ra m, short-term loans have a tenor of one year, term loan for permanent working capital is payable up to five years, while fixed asset acquisition is payable based on the cash flow or payback period of the project, with grace period on the principal and interest. Agriculture Secretary

William Dar and Borromeo led the MOA signing to formalize the joint implementation of the SWINE Lending Program. Medrano also said LandBank SWINE lending program is part of DA's recovery program for 2021-2023, Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion (INSPIRE) Program which has an initial allotment of PHP400 million for the sentinel pigs or test pigs to see if ASF is still present in the previously affected area, the repopulation itself, and enhancement of biosecurity. LandBank and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) have partnered for this program.

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Thinking of pursuing a singing career? Lea Salonga has this simple advice

ea salonga had a straightforward answer when asked on Friday to give advice to those who are trying to pursue a career in singing.

"Make sure you have the goods," she said, saying the most important thing to consider is one's ability to sing without the help of Auto-Tune. According to Salonga, this applies to all kinds of singers, from belters like Regine Velasquez to more mellow artists like Moira dela Torre. Not being out of tune and having an emotional connection to a song are, she said, two non-negotiables in a professional singer. "At the very least, without the help of Auto-Tune, you have to sing well. And this is regard-

less of the quality of the kind of singing that you do. Because you can be Regine, Jaya, Moira, KZ, Sarah G. These are all different types of singers with different types of voices who bring something different to the industry. But they all sing well. That's the thing," she explained. "They all sing well, they're all emotionally connected. You can feel the emotion when they sing. You have to be at least that if you want to make this a career. You have to have the chops for this," the "Voice of the Philippines" coach added. But those who only want to

Maxene Magalona back in PH after a year in Bali

MAXENE MAGALONA ManiLa (Mabuhay) — Maxene Magalona has returned to the Philippines, after a year of being based in Bali, Indonesia, the actress announced on Instagram. In her most recent post, Magalona said she will use her time in quarantine to mediate and reflect. "There are moments when I still can’t believe that I’m finally back in Manila after living in Bali for more than a year. Being on a tropical island for a long time and then having to come back to a city will not be the smoothest transition. Thankfully, I have to stay in quarantine for a couple of weeks before I can 'go back to the real world' which will give me enough time to adjust. This is definitely going to be something new to me as we weren’t living in strict lockdown in Bali. Everyone was free to go around whenever and wherever. So instead of resisting and complaining about not having as much freedom as I used to, I’ve decided to use this time in quarantine for self-reflection, detoxification and integration," she said. "Beginning on Sunday, I will use my time in quarantine to reflect on everything I’ve experienced in the past year, meditate for longer hours and also do a juice fast so that I can cleanse and detoxify my body. This will be my offering to God as a sign of my infinite gratitude and devotion. Celebrating my return home by returning to my true self. I’m finally home, Manila. I am my own home," the actress added. According to Magalona, her lengthy stay in Bali with with husband Rob Mananquil helped in strengthening her relationship with the Lord. “This has definitely been the most eye-opening and soul awakening time of my life so I just want to express how grateful I am to God for bringing us here and keeping us safe and protected this whole time. This pandemic showed me what truly matters in life which is our spiritual connection to the Divine,” she stated in the caption. (MNS)

LEA SALONGA sing as a hobby can skip those requirements and perform as much as they want, said Salonga, who noted that singing "can be a very healing force." "If it's a recreational activity, I'm not gonna stop

you. If it's just singing to be expressive, if it's just to be creative, by all means do," she said. She went on: "Kung hobby-hobby lang, sige lang, it doesn't matter. But if you're gonna make this a profession, you have to be at a very high level. Make sure you have the goods before making the decision." Salonga on Thursday marked her 43rd year in the industry by posting a photo from her first professional theater stint -- Repertory Philippines' "The King and I" at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Over her career, she has become one of the most recognized and respected names in theater, starring in shows such as "Miss Saigon," "Les Miserables," and "Sweeney Todd." Salonga has been giving back during the lockdown by helping raise funds for members of the performing arts and entertainment industry who have been affected by the pandemic, both in the Philippines and abroad. (MNS)

Heaven on Kiko and Devon: I’m not the reason behind their breakup ManiLa (Mabuhay) — Heaven Peralejo denied being involved in the rumored breakup of her “Bagong Umaga” co-star Kiko Estrada and his girlfriend of two years, actress Devon Seron. Peralejo, 21, addressed accusations of her supposed involvement with Estrada, 25, through an Instagram Stories update. She wrote: “Associating me with actors I have scenes with can be easy. At the end of the day, we’re nothing more than just co-stars working with each other. “I should have been dragged into the personal issue between Devon Seron and Kiko Estrada. However, I will not stay silent about it especially after being harshly accused of something I did not and would never do.

“To set things straight, I am not in any way romantically associated with Kiko

DEVON AND KIKO nor am I the reason behind their breakup.” The relationship of Estrada and Seron became the subject of speculation early this week, due to the noticeable changes on their respective social media pages. Aside from her since-deleted cryptic statement about “hiding the truth,”

HEAVEN PERALEJO Devon appeared to have removed all photos of Estrada from her Instagram account. Estrada, meanwhile, has completely wiped his page. Neither, however, has

gone on record to say they have broken up. “I k now how painful the process of heartbreaks can be but this does not justif y pinning the blame on others who are not even involved. Although, I do sincerely hope Kiko and Devon would heal from this,” Peralejo said. Seron and Estrada had been co-stars in at least three major projects starting in 2012, before they confirmed being together in January 2019. They celebrated their second anniversary as a couple in August 2020. (MNS)

Dimples Romana marks 24th year in showbiz ManiLa (Mabuhay) — Actress Dimples Romana looked back at how she started in the entertainment industry as she marked her 24th year in show business. In an Instagram post, Romana said she never took for granted any opportunity that was given to her and that she constantly reminded herself to stay grounded. "Ako ito, 12 years old. Puno ng pangarap, araw araw nagdadasal at may pusong handang matuto at makinig. The times then were different. I didn’t know a thing about being an actor. All I had was willingness and humility to learn and be better, every single day. That young lady is still in me. Never took any opportunity given to me for granted, always reminded myself to be good to everyone around me regardless of their position or status. Made the conscious effort to always show my gratitude towards people," Romana said. "Today I celebrate my 24 years in show business together with my Ates

and Kuyas of Star Circle’s Batch 4. God has blessed me with a long, steady and stable career. A craft I will always be proud to have. With all the experiences I’ve had over the years, from transitioning from that shy timid young lady, to creating my own path, from reinventing myself to become a host, entrepreneur, author, brand ambassador, endorser along the way, from doing supporting and character roles, playing characters that are iconic in their way, the things I’ve learned from the masters and all those who came before me, I will share soon. Time to share and teach, Dimples ," she added. Romana started her show business career as one of the members of ABSDIMPLES ROMANA CBN’s Star Circle Batch 4, which was Tanchanco and Sarji Ruiz were also launched in March 1997. Aside from Romana, Nikki Valdez, part of that batch. After starring in various television Kristine Hermosa, Jericho Rosales, Domnic Ochoa, Carol Banawa, Paula shows and fi lms, Romana became a Peralejo, Julia Clarete, Anna Larrucea, household name as Daniela Mondragon Vanessa del Bianco, Wacky Roxas, Ste- in 2018 ABS-CBN's hit series "Kadenang Ginto." (MNS) ven Alonzo, Gerard Pizarras, Miguel ERICH GONZALES

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Dingdong marvels at how kids Zia, Sixto have completely different personalities

ingdong Dantes marvels at how his children Zia and Sixto are growing up with completely different personalities.

“Si Zia, sobrang biba. Alam ko 'yung nanay niya ganun pero iba talaga,” he said. Dantes said this makes him wonder how children’s personalities really develop even though they live in the same environment. “Nung wala pa akong anak, tinatanong ko kung 'yung personality ba ng bata nade-develop dahil sa pagpapalaki or ganun na talaga. Ngayon na ganun na silang dalawa, nakikita ko na very different sila pareho. Although same naman 'yung aming mga rules dito pero magkaiba sila,” he said. Nonetheless, Dantes said he and his wife Marian Rivera will

support whatever their kids want to become when they grow up. “Nakakatuwa dahil later on siyempre sila 'yung tatahak ng mga gusto nilang makamit at gawin. Pero siyempre kailangan nandito kami para gumabay,” he said. In the same interview, Dantes shared that this pandemic has helped him feel like a full-time member of their family. “Naramdaman ko 'yung pagiging isang full-time father, fulltime member of the family. Not just my immediate family but also 'yung mommy ko, daddy ko, mga kapatid ko. Sabi ko nga, well, I'm kinda liking this,”

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Raymond Gutierrez inspires with weight loss journey MANIL A (Mabuhay) — For Raymond Gutierrez, going from overweight to fit was a life-changing experience. The host recently took to social media to look back on his weight loss journey, posting a black and white photo highlighting his lean figure on Instagram. "Having been overweight most of my life, losing 70 pounds completely changed my life a few years ago. It didn't just change me physically but mentally as well. It allowed me to believe in myself and continue on with my fitness journey -- building muscle and gaining strength along the way," he said. Gutierrez went on to encourage others to go on a journey to fitness, but was quick to re-

Dingdong Dantes with his kids Zia and Sixto he said. Dantes also said he appreciates that he gets to witness this chapter in the lives of his children. “Kasi 'yung chapter na 'to ng buhay nila is very, very important. Kailangan masamahan mo sila rito sa development

stage na 'to. Nung nag-start 'yung pandemic, 'yung anak kong lalaki hindi pa gumagapang tapos ngayon tumatalon na, nagma-monkey bar.” Aside from Zia and Sixto, Dantes said he and Rivera still want to grow their family and have more kids. (MNS)

Iza Calzado recalls being in a toxic relationship before MANILA (Mabuhay) — Before finding the man of her life, Ben Wintle, veteran actress Iza Calzado admitted being stuck in a “toxic” relationship in the past and getting blinded by her attachment to love. In “Paano Ba ‘To” vlog series of host Bianca Gonzales, Calzado gave her take on why women stay in a bad relationship as she shared some of her experiences. Calzado admitted she was madly in love with that person at the time that she took for granted the red flags in their relationship. “When I entered the relationship, I thought I was strong. In the relationship before that, ako pa nga 'yung nang-iiwan, may ganun. And then I met somebody I was madly in love with. And I knew after several months parang it was getting toxic,” she said. But despite this, the award-winning actress revealed she got more attached whenever her former partner pushed her away. She even ignored what her friends were telling her. “The more toxic it was, the more I was attached to him. The more he pushed me away, the more I wanted to be with him. The more challenged I became to prove to myself, to everybody kasi eventually people were verbalizing na that they didn't

IZA CALZADO like him for me,” Calzado shared. The 38-year-old Kapamilya star disclosed that she was also insecure during those times which prompted her to even check her partner’s personal messages on the phone. “I was very insecure but because I was being given reasons to be insecure. Nagkataon pa with this guy, alam mo 'yung mga guys na ma-check out ng women, tapos masabi ng things. So lalo akong nai-insecure then umabot ako sa

point na tumitingin ako sa phone,” she divulged. “‘Yung tumitingin ako sa messages. Nagpakababa ako. At saka tipong 'pag may lalapit na babae, makikipagusap lang, naka-dagger look na 'ko. The girl is not flirting pero feeling ko iiwanan na niya ko for that person. Umabot sa ganun,” Calzado added. Asked why she stayed in the relationship? Calzado bared it was the same kind of drama she witnessed

in her family growing up. “For me, that drama was familiar, that is what I grew up with. There was drama in our home... I was attached, because that was what I thought love was like. Because that's what love was like in our home growing up,” said Calzado, who also made it clear she was not physically abused by her former partner. The star of ABS-CBN’s series “Ang Sa’yo Ay Akin'' went on to debunk the romantic idea of one completing another's life. Calzado claimed it is dangerous to think that you need someone to complete you. “It's a romantic idea. It's so nice to hear -- one person, another person in this world will make you complete, will fill you. Sometimes parang you're always searching for something to fill that void, that hole. Pero it's not true. The only person that can complete you is you. And, of course, the divine,” she explained. In her parting message to the letter sender, Calzado stressed the value of self-love and knowing what you deserve, especially in love which she described as a battlefield. “You deserve so much more. Know what you deserve and never settle. Self-love. You have to prioritize yourself above anyone else. You are that main character of this movie,” the actress quipped. (MNS)

RAYMOND GUTIERREZ mind that there are "no shortcuts" to the process. "What you see here isn't an overnight success story; it's the product of many hours in the gym, changing my eating habits, and finding the support group to help me achieve my goals. It's never too late to change your life. If I can do it, so can you," he said. "Nothing beats consistent hard work and dedication," he added. Giving advice to those who don't know where to start, Gutierrez said the first step is to "find a program that works for you and do something you enjoy." In his case, he has been training with his coach, trying a plant-based diet, and undergoing skin tightening treatments for his mid section. It was back in March 2017 when Gutierrez stunned netizens with his remarkable weight loss. Many were quick to notice that he has been catching up with his physically fit twin brother, actor Richard Gutierrez. (MNS)

Sharon Cuneta teases Gabby Concepcion about screen reunion MANILA (Mabuhay) — Years after it was reported that they will be reuniting onscreen, Sharon Cuneta once again teased her former husband Gabby Concepcion. On Instagram, Cuneta posted a photo collage showing her and Concepcion with their respective current younger onscreen partners. Cuneta then asked the father of her eldest daughter, KC Concepcion if he is now ready, which seems to refer to their planned reunion film. "Kala mo ikaw lang may batang partner ha?! Game

k a na ba?! A ko w a la ng kaproble-problema. You na lang hinihintay ng bansa!" Cuneta wrote in the caption, addressing Concepcion. In 2016, it was reported that Cuneta and Concepcion will be doing a reunion movie, but due to a variety of reasons it was postponed. Despite this, the former couple insisted that they are still open to do a movie together. "I never said no to the project. There are many factors to consider. I hope we can make the movie happen. We have been waiting for that," Concep-

cion said in previous interview. In 2018, the two surprised their fans when they did a TV commercial together for a fast food chain they both endorse. That was their first time working together since 1992's "Tayong Dalawa." The two were first paired in the 1981 movie "Dear Heart." Cuneta married Concepcion in 1985 at the height of the popularity of their love team. Cuneta remarried in 1996 to Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, with whom she has three children. Currently, Cuneta is one of

GABBY AND SHARON the judges of the newest season of "Your Face Sounds Familiar."

(MNS)

Feature Where are you in the vaccine queue? This Pinoy-made tool can tell 16

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MANILA – You can now get a rough idea how far you are in the line for the coronavirus vaccine with a Pinoy-made calculator that estimates where you are in the queue. Engineer Kenneth Alambra from the University of the Philippines Los Baños developed the Philippine Vaccine Queue Calculator, which takes into account your age, profession, health condition, and risk factor. The calculator estimates the number of people in front of you in the queue and the possible dates when you could get your shots, based on the available vaccines at present and the government's target. Alambra said he drew inspiration from a similar online tool developed by his colleague Steve Wooding for the United Kingdom. He teamed up with his researcher friend, Reina Sagnip from De La Salle University-Manila, and together, they created the tool for the Omni Calculator Project, based on the national priority list. In order to reach the national plan of vaccinating 70 percent of the country's adult population by end of 2021, Alambra said the government needs to vaccinate at least 1,274,980 people per week. "Based on my tool, I'm in line behind at least 19,665,964 Filipinos, and my turn falls within October 3, 2021 - May 29, 2022.

I believe my calculator answers a question on millions of Filipino’s minds," he said. Alambra hopes this tool could provide a sense of what's to come and serve as a reminder to the public to protect themselves while the country works towards achieving herd immunity. "Coming into the year 2021, I think that most of us are wishing that the virus would just disappear, but in reality, it’s going to take time to get us all vaccinated. That was one of the major motivators for this calculator, giving people a realistic timeline, and comfort knowing that the end is in sight even if it’s still months away," he told the Philippine News Agency (PNA). How to use the vaccine queue calculator? 1. Enter your age in years. Senior citizens or those 60 years old and above will be called up sooner than younger ones to have the vaccine. 2. If you are a front-line health worker, you will be prioritized because you are likely to have a lot of exposure to the virus and needs to be protected. Answer yes to this field if you are currently an active frontline health worker. 3. If you have any comorbidities like hypertension, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, asthma, any cardiovascular or respiratory diseases, stroke, or cancer, to name a few, answer

yes to the persons with comorbidities field. However, it would still be best to consult your personal physician before taking the vaccine to ensure your utmost safety. 4. Are you classed as a nonhealth front-line essential personnel falling under A4 priority group or other workers under priority eligible group B? Answer these fields out appropriately. 5. The Philippine government also prioritizes people in high-risk areas where the population is highly dense. Indicate if you are a part of the indigent population as determined by the government, a person with disability, or part of the sociodemographic groups at significantly higher risk of exposure to Covid-19. For example, you are a 29-year old person with no co-morbidity and is neither a front-line health worker nor an essential worker, you should expect to receive your first dose of the vaccine between Aug. 18, 2021 and Oct. 17, 2021 if the government is able to achieve a vaccination rate of 1,274,980 a week. Who are first on the list? In a nutshell, those who have been on the front-line of the pandemic, including doctors, nurses, hospital staff, police and soldiers, get the jab. In the country, the vaccination rollout has begun on the first day of March, with health

workers getting the first jabs. The elderly adults are next on the list. When is mass immunization expected to start? National Task Force (NTF) Against Covid-19 chief implementer Carlito Galvez Jr. said the mass immunization of the general public will begin once the vaccine production and supply become steady between May and June 2021. The Philippines targets to inoculate one million Filipinos weekly in April, two million weekly in May, and at least three to five million weekly in July and in the succeeding months. A s of t h i s w r it i ng, a l l 1,125,600 doses of vaccines available in the country have been deployed in various public and private hospitals nationwide, with healthcare workers as a priority. Within this month, the Philippines is expected to receive two million more doses of Covid-19 vaccines, about 1.4 million are CoronaVac from Beijing-based biopharmaceutical firm Sinovac. An additional two million CoronaVac doses and two million of Sputnik V from Gamaleya and the COVAX Facility are also expected to arrive by April. The Philippine Vaccine Queue Calculator may be accessed for free through https://www.omnicalculator.com/health/vaccine-queue-philippines. (PNA)

THE AMERICAN... from Page 5 most benefit from the new law are low-income children. 14 percent of American children live in poverty; the relief bill would cut that to 7 percent. The rates of poverty are higher for Black children at 18 percent; and Hispanic children, at 22 percent. “Poverty harms children throughout their lives: early brain development is disrupted, leading to slower and stunted growth,” said Maag. She noted that children who grow up in poverty are less likely to graduate from high school or attend college. Employment and health are tenuous throughout their lives. Maag added that the two-year measure is unlikely to end cyclical, generational poverty, but is a start. Stone challenged the Labor Department’s tabulation of the unemployment rate, currently 6.2 percent — about 10 million people — and said a more accurate number would be about 9 percent. Incoming Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said last month that unemployment rates could be as high as 10 percent, as millions of people dropped out of the workforce during the pandemic.

Pre-pandemic, unemployment rates were 3.5 percent. Last July, however, as businesses shot down, unemployment skyrocketed to 16 percent, with 32 million people out of work. The new unemployment relief measures are set to expire Sept. 6. Stone said he would like to see members of Congress return to the bargaining table before they go on their summer break in August. “They should be looking at economic conditions and deciding whether it's reasonable to allow these benefits to expire on Sept. 6, or whether they should do something to further extend them,” he said. Job losses have been most dramatic among low-wage earners. 31 percent of all industries with the lowest average wages at the start of the recession have accounted for 55 percent of the 8.1 million private-sector job losses over the past year, said Stone. Siby of ROC United advocated for a rise in the minimum wage; a hotly-contested debate in Congress to raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour was left out of the final version of the bill. 78 percent of the

nation's 27.1 million service workers are women, people of color, and immigrants. Over one third of the nation's service workers do not earn enough to consistently make ends meet, he said. The current federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. Restaurant workers, who earn a portion of their wage in tips, are paid about $2.31 per hour. Siby compared the cost of living to income: a single mother of one child in Mississippi would need $26 per hour to live, but earns only $7.25. In California, using the same scenario, a single mother would need $40 per hour to make ends meet, yet earns just $12. “We have a huge gap between what people need to live on and what they are actually receiving and this is why the dependency on government subsidy is so high now,” he said. Minimum wage raises would not adversely impact small business owners, who are accustomed to working in low profit margins, said Siby. He also said it was possible to raise minimum wages even amid the pandemic, as the proposed plan which failed would have annually raised wages incrementally.

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RENT... from Page 1 front-line workers and low-wage earners are behind on their rent due to the economic fallout of this pandemic,” said Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency (BCSH) Secretary Lourdes Castro Ramirez. “They have accumulated significant debt and their landlords are struggling to meet their financial obligations. The CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program will be a lifeline to renters and landlords. It clears accumulated rental debt, keeps families hardest hit housed and will lead to a more equitable economic recovery.” Both renters and landlords can apply for CA COVID-19 Rent Relief. If landlords choose to participate, they will receive 80 percent of an eligible tenant’s unpaid rent for the period of April 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021 if they agree to waive the remaining 20 percent of unpaid rent. Renters making less than 80 percent or less of the Area Median Income (AMI) for their location are eligible. For example, a family of four in Visalia in Tulare County is eligible for rental assistance if their household income is $55,900 or less. Renters’ income eligibility will automatically be calculated during the application process. Eligible renters with landlords who choose not to participate in the program can apply on their own. Those renters will be eligible to receive payments of 25 percent of unpaid rent accrued from April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021, which can help protect them from eviction under SB 91. “One of our primary goals is to ensure we reach and serve communities that have been hardest hit by the pandemic,” said Gustavo Velasquez, Director of the Department of Housing and Community Development, which is administering the program. “We appreciate the support and partnership of local jurisdictions working with the State to ensure that those in most need of assistance get clear, accurate, consistent, and accessible information on how and when to apply.” A statewide network of has been established to help individuals answer eligibility questions and submit applications. In addition, a robust statewide multilingual communication and education effort is underway to help inform renters and landlords about the availability of CA COVID-19 Rent Relief. The application will be available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Chinese and Korean, and help will be available in more than 200 additional languages through the California COVID-19 Rent Relief call center at 833-430-2122. Applications from landlords or renters must include all required information and eligibility verification items to be processed. Case management teams will be available to help applicants complete their applications. There is a checklist for renters that includes the paperwork they will need, and one for landlords. Once an application has been successfully submitted and processed, both the landlord and tenant will be notified by a COVID19 Rent Relief case manager about the application status. For more information on program eligibility, required application information, and to start the application process, visit HousingIsKey.com or call 833-430-2122.

VACCINATION... from Page 1 Without vaccines, that would take five years. If 25% of the community is vaccinated, it would take two-and-a-half years. But a 50% vaccination rate would bring herd immunity in 10 months, Dr. Sarah Lopez, an emergency room doctor at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, explained. As for rumors of community members being “vaccine hesitant,” reluctant to trust getting vaccinated, “We’re not seeing that,” Jim Mangia, president and CEO of the St. John’s Well Child & Family Center, said. His organization provides medical, dental and mental health services to 120,000 people at 20 sites and three mobile clinics in south and central Los Angeles. “What we’re seeing on the front lines is patients who need access to vaccine. Throughout the community, people are lin-

ing up for the vaccine.” At a church vaccine site recently, where 600 people had made appointments for vaccines, he said, word-of-mouth led 1,000 people to step up and get their shots. “The county, the Department of Public Health has been doing amazing work,” he said. As of the previous weekend, his organization has vaccinated 80,000 people and is now serving 25,000 per week. Ninety-five percent of those vaccines, Mangia said, have gone to African American or Latinx clients. With vaccines available at its clinics, East L.A. Civic Center, Clinton Elementary School, Compton College and other sites, “I think what we’re doing now is building the infrastructure to be able to mass-vaccinate the communities of central and south Los Angeles,” Mangia said.

Lopez took her own doctor’s advice and was vaccinated while undergoing chemotherapy for an aggressive breast cancer last year. She explained some of the differences among various types of vaccines. Some, like the (40% effective, she said) flu shot or hepatitis-B or HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccines include a sample of the virus it’s aimed at. But others, including all the COVID vaccines, do not. Like the vaccines developed to battle Zika and Ebola, the new Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccine is known as a “viral vector” that attaches to corona virus “spike proteins,” triggering the body’s immune system to reject them. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines produce a similar effect using messenger RNA in ways previously developed to fight cancer. All three, Lopez and County

Department of Public Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis said, “are 100% effective at preventing hospitalization or death” and none caused even one hospitalization or death during testing while COVID-19 wrought its havoc. As for the new re-openings, schools serving students in grades 7-12 can now open for in-person instruction, as can colleges and universities, except for their dormitories. Restaurants, movie theaters, zoos, museums, aquariums and food courts can now operate at 25% capacity, although safety guidelines such as mask-wearing and social distancing are still in effect. And retail and personal care businesses can operate at 50% capacity. “Just because certain activities are allowed does not mean they’re without risk,” Davis cautioned. So gyms and yoga

and dance studios are limited to 10% of capacity, because physical activities pose greater transmission risks, he noted. At movie theaters, seating will be reserved and at least 6 feet distant from people from other households. To have indoor dining, a restaurant has to have adequate ventilation and tables at least 8 feet apart, with a limit of six people – all from the same household – at each. “Outdoors is safer than indoors,” he said. “Most of us still are not vaccinated.” But, “as more vaccine frees up,” Mangia said, “we are going to get more and more vaccine into the arms of people who need it, and see that herd immunity get to the levels we need to allow the communities of South L.A., Central L.A., East L.A., to be safe, go back to normal, back to work, and socialize with our families.”

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letting fall from Heaven a Shower of Roses. Little Flower, give me your childlike faith, to see the Facethroughout of God in the people and praise God with thee all the eternity. me your childlike faith,and to see theelect Face of God in the people and I promise thee, O blessed to God be ever of this great experiences of my life, andJude, to love withmindful full confidence. St. CARS? H[SHULHQFHV RI P\ OLIH DQG WR ORYH *RG ZLWK IXOO FRQ¿GHQFH 6W favour, to always honour Sister, thee asI my andplea powerful Therese, my Carmelite willspecial fulfill your ‘to bepatron, made 7KHUHVH P\ &DUPHOLWH 6LVWHU , ZLOO to IXO¿OO \RXU SOHD µWR EH PDGH and to gratefully encourage devotion thee. Amen. —STANLEY known everywhere’ everywhere’ and and II will will continue continue to to lead lead others others to to Jesus Jesus known through you. Amen THANK YOU SHAHELA through you. Amen THANK YOU - ABA

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•

Health & Family Health Family Filipinos 'might all die waiting' for vaccine sans innovative steps in pandemic response —Lacson 18

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MANILA (Mabuhay) — Filipinos "might all die waiting" to be vaccinated against COVID-19 if the government will not implement drastic and innovative steps in its pandemic response, Senator Panfilo Lacson said Thursday. In a tweet, Lacson enumerated the loans that several international banks have approved for the Philippines, as well as the budget of the Department of Health under the Bayanihan Law, to aid its COVID-19 response which, according to him, has already swelled to P126.75 billion. "I doubt if our health authorities have a sound analysis and assessment why the sudden spike in COVID cases. The thing is, how can we have a solution when we don’t know the cause of the problem?" he said in a separate statement. "Unless some drastic and innovative steps are undertaken, we might all die waiting," he added. Lacson lamented how concerned government agencies seem to be dragging their feet on the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines. This, even as the Department of Finance tapped international banks ahead of time in anticipation of the "crowding" for loans, he said. "Even the private sector and eventually the LGUs, not having the patience to wait for government action, took it upon themselves to procure vaccines for their employees, even offering

50% of their vaccine purchases to the government," Lacson said. "Instead of treating them as partners and assisting them, the government regulated and controlled everything by requiring them to go through government procurement, or else," he added. The Philippines began its COVID-19 vaccination program on March 1 after the arrival of 600,000 doses of donated Sinovac vaccines from China, which was immediately followed by 487,000 doses of vaccine from AstraZeneca. On March 7, another batch of 38,400 doses of AstraZeneca vaccine arrived in the country. The said vaccines from AstraZeneca are part of the supply allocated to the Philippines by the global vaccine-sharing COVAX scheme. President Rodrigo Duterte last month signed the Vaccination Program Act of 2021 that would expedite the rollout of the country's vaccination program against COVID-19. Under the law, the DOH and the National Task Force Against COVID-19 (NTF) are authorized to undertake negotiated procurement of COVID-19 vaccines as well as the ancillary supplies and services for their storage, transport, and distribution. The indemnity fund will be used to compensate individuals inoculated through COVID-19 vaccination program who will experience any adverse effects. The law also allows local government units to purchase COVID-19 vaccines and ancillar y suppl ies a nd services in cooperation with the DOH and NTF through multipa rt y a g re ement s. (MNS)

SENATOR PANFILO LACSON

Vaccinated health worker who died of COVID-19 had comorbidities — NAEFIC exec MANILA (Mabuhay) — The health worker who received a coronavirus vaccine and later succumbed to COVID-19 had comorbidities and also contracted the respirator y illness last year, the National Adverse Events Following Immunization Committee (NAEFIC) said Thursday. N A E F IC v ic e c h a i r m a n D r. Rommel Lobo said t he fata lit y was a 47-yea r-old woma n w it h known hypertension, diabetes, and bronchial asthma. “The comorbidities present in this patient put her at risk for developing COV ID-19,” he ex pla i ned i n a briefing. Lobo sa id t he hea lt h worker underwent COVID-19 testing on February 22 and was found positive. She took another test on February 23 and her results came back negative. Citing an infectious disease expert who was consulted by the regional AEFIC, Lobo said the positive result on February 22 “could have been remnants of a previous infection.” “Remember that the patient had a previous COVID-19 infection in 2020 and then just this year they did a determination, they said it was a remnant of a previous infection and it was deemed… she’s not anymore infective at that time,” he said. The health worker received a Sinovac jab on March 4. Lobo said she had no symptoms upon screening. “The patient might have been exposed to a [COVID-19-positive] individual that she had encountered and then she might be incubating or… asymptomatic at the time that she was vaccinated,” he said. “We know for a fact that there is a certain period of incubation. Through the days that followed, she developed sy mptoms a f ter vaccination.” On March 8, the health worker tested positive for COVID-19 again. She was advised admission but initially refused. On March 10, she was admitted to a hospital. She succumbed to COVID-19 on March 13.

“The COVID-19 vaccine does not cause, as we all know, COVID-19 disease because it’s an inactivated vaccine,” Lobo stressed. “None of the vaccines used in the Philippines can make people sick with COVID-19.” No immediate protection Food and Drug Administration ( F DA) ch ief E r ic Dom i ngo underscored that “during the first few weeks after you are injected with a vaccine, you have no protection.” “This is the time that your immune system is trying to develop… Your risk of developing COVID-19, getting the illness, and getting severe illness and possibly dying from it is the same as a non-vaccinated person,” he said. He urged the public to continue observing health protocols even after getting vaccinated. Domingo also said the FDA has informed Chinese firm Sinovac Biotech about the recorded fatality through its local distributor in the Philippines. “We’re continuously coordinating with the manufacturers… We are asking them for information if there are any similar events that happened in other countries,” he said, adding that Sinovac has yet to respond. A total of 240,297 individuals have received their first dose as of Tuesday. Dr. Beverly Ho, director of the Department of Hea lth’s Hea lth Promotion and Disease Prevention a nd Cont rol bureaus, sa id t he vaccination program will proceed w it h no cha nges si nce hea lt h s c r e en i n g pr oto c ol s pr ior to inoculation are in place. However, Lobo advised individuals who were infected with COVID-19 to wait three to four months after recovery before getting vaccinated. “Those who have recovered, maybe after three months or four months they may now be a good candidate to be vaccinated, primarily because their antibodies have already waned down from the natural infection,” he said. (MNS)

Filipino caregivers, students get free vaccine in Israel

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Thousands of Filipino caregivers, students, and diplomats in Israel have been vaccinated against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) for free, the Israel Embassy in Manila reported Wednesday. The free inoculation is part of the Israeli government's vaccination drive to immunize all residents in the country, regardless of their citizenship status. Around 5.2 million people have so far been administered with at least one dose of Pfizer's Covid-19 vaccine in Israel, 30,000 of whom are Filipino caregivers and 400 are exchange students. Filipinos with expired working permits as well as the staff of the Philippine Embassy in Israel also received the free Pfizer shots. Israel Ambassador to Manila Rafael Harpaz said this free access to vaccines is another way of expressing Israel's gratitude to the overseas Filipino workers, particularly caregivers working in their country. “Israel is thankful for the Filipino caregivers for helping the elderly and the disabled Israeli citizens during

the Covid-19 outbreak. For many years, the Israeli government has been providing the Filipino caregivers with full access to the advanced medical services of our country,” he said. Harpaz added that Israel has been taking "good care" of the Filipino caregivers while citing a 2018 agree-

ment signed during the visit of President Rodrigo Duterte to Israel. Israel in recent months has also supported the Philippine government in its pandemic response by donating personal protective equipment to the front-liners of the Department of National Defense and the Philippine National Police, and

equipment to assist the Department of Education in implementing distance learning. The Embassy said Israel would continue sharing its experience and knowledge in emergency and Covid-19 response through webinars, courses, and joint meetings. (MNS)

More than 30,000 Filipinos in Israel have been given free COVID-19 Pﬁzer shots, the Israeli government said. (MNS photo)

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Suicide deaths up 26 percent in pandemic year — PSA MANIL A (Mabuhay) — The number of deaths due to selfharm increased by about a quarter in 2020, making suicide the 27th leading cause of death in the Philippines, recent data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed. Deaths due to suicide spiked to 3,529 last year, which is 25.7 percent higher compared to the 2,808 deaths due to self-harm in 2019, the PSA said in a statement released on March 16. The study covered deaths reported in the Philippines from January to December 2020, but has yet to account for Filipinos who died abroad, the PSA said. Earlier, experts said pandemic fatigue is affecting more Filipinos, endangering the general public’s mental health. This was evident in the increase of calls to helplines, fully-booked consultation schedules, and rise in activities that sought to combat stress. Psychologist Randy Dellosa said Filipinos have grown “sick and tired of trying to consider as a ‘new normal’ what in reality is an obvious ‘abnormal.’’ Estimates also showed some 3.6 million Filipinos suffered from mental health problems, but getting accurate numbers remained a challenge as access to healthcare

professionals became more difficult during the pandemic. Based on the national prevalence study on mental, neurological and substance use disorders reported by National Mental Health Program by Frances Prescilla Cuevas, at least 1,145,871 people are suffering from depressive disorder. Up until October 6, the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) received around 32 to 37 calls since March 17, raising the monthly average calls to 907. Data from October onwards are unavailable as of posting. Despair was also palpable as over 420,000 Filipinos lost their jobs in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (MNS)

FDA: 3.1% of vaccinated individuals report adverse effects MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Thursday said 3.1% or 7,469 of the 240,297 individuals vaccinated against COVID-19, as of March 16, reported an adverse event following immunization (AEFI). FDA chief Eric Domingo said 7,331 of t he s e A E F I s w er e non-serious and 138 were serious, including a case t hat involved the death of a health worker. Domingo explained

ed AEFIs, 3,700 were linked to the Sinovac jab and 3,769 were connected to the AstraZeneca vaccine. Over 2,400 A EFIs were also recorded in Metro Manila, where the bulk of the initial vaccine shipments were rolled out. Nationa l Adverse E v e n t s Fo l l o w i n g Immunization Committee (NAEFIC) vice chairman Dr. Rommel Lobo said not all untoward medical events that follow immunization “have a causal

that a serious AEFI is one t hat results in death, a life-threatening situation like anaphylaxis, in-patient and prolonged hospitalization, persistent or significant disability, congenital anomaly or birth defect, or a medically important event. Some of the most common AEFIs were pain at the injection site, chills, chest discomfort, fatigue, and headache. Among the report-

relationship with the administration of a vaccine.” “For example, you get vaccinated and then you get bitten by a dog. You should also report that as an AEFI. Whether it’s related or unrelated, there should be reporting and it should be documented,” he said. A l l repor ted adverse events undergo causality assessments by the NAEFIC, its regional counterparts, and the Department

of Health. Lobo said the assessment i nvolves conducting field investigations, reviewing clinical records, a nd compi l i ng i nformation about the circumstances associated with adverse events. “Every single report of AEFI reported in the Philippines is treated with utmost seriousness… [There] is a thorough examination of every step of the vaccination process and it is done with great care,” he said. T h e N A E F IC earlier said t he hea lt h worker who succumbed to COVID-19 after receiving a Sinovac shot died of the respiratory illness and not the vaccine. Dom i ngo a lso u rged the public to continue following health protocols even after getting vaccinated since “during the first few weeks after you are injected with a vaccine, you have no protection.” “This is the time that your immune system is trying to develop… Your risk of developing COVID-19, getting the illness, and getting severe illness and possibly dying from it is the same as a non-vaccinated person,” he said. (MNS)

Senior citizens best candidates for Covid-19 vaccination — expert MANILA (Mabuhay) — A health expert on Tuesday said senior citizens are the “best candidates” for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccination because they are at risk of severe infection or death from the disease considering their age and comorbidities. In an online media forum, Dr. Shelley Ann dela Vega, Director of the University of the Philippines Manila- National Health Institute on Aging, reported that most deaths from Covid-19 nationwide are among the senior citizens – 65 years old and above – constituting 81.15 percent of the country’s death toll. Dela Vega also reported that about 55.6 percent of senior citizens are hypertensive, 16.8 percent are diabetic, 15.4 percent are obese, and 11.6 percent are smokers – making them at risk of severe Covid-19 infection. Hence, she cited the need for senior citizens to be inoculated with Covid-19 vaccines which are proven safe since they were granted emergency use authorization from the country’s Food and Drug Administration. “[From] vaccine storage and handling, site preparedness, we know that they have trained the people in the sites that will administer the vaccine. There are also screening of the older people, senior citizens, at the vaccine site when they get there. So, they will be asked if they have fever,” she added. Citing that high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, heart disease, and kidney disease are not contraindications, dela Vega noted that senior citizens with such comorbidities need not secure their doctors' clearance before vaccination. “Let’s also now say that the recommendation that I am putting forward is that yes, senior citizens are the best candidates for Covid vaccination. Tumatanda na ang katawan pati ang immune system. Kung hindi pabakunahan, mas mahirap silang mag-recover

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Herd immunity in the Philippines might not be achieved until 2023 —Moody's Analytics MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippines is not likely to achieve herd immunity against COVID-19 until 2023, which could slow the pace of its economic recovery, according to Moody’s Analytics. In his Asia-Pacific Economic outlook, Moody’s Analytics chief economist for Asia-Pacific Steven Cochrane reiterated that the Philippines will lag behind its peers in the region in terms of recovering to its pre-pandemic economic growth. “Most of the region, if not already recovered, is within 2 to 3 percentage points of achieving a new peak in GDP (gross domestic product),” Cochrane said. He said that “those that are lagging — the Philippines, Thailand and Malaysia — are struggling either to contain COVID-19 or to get their economic drivers going, or both.” “Containment of COVID-19 in the Philippines has been elusive. After gradually falling from August to February, the number of new cases is rising again, and some quarantine measures are still in place. And pork prices have risen, caused by African swine fever, and vegetable prices have increased, caused by lingering impacts of last year?s typhoons,” Cochrane noted. “Among the major APAC countries, only the Philippines and Thailand still appear to be lagging in their procurement of vaccines, although our forecast assumes that they will acquire the needed vaccines as the number of sources expands,” he added. The Philippine government is seeking to “eliminate” COVID-19 in 2022, vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. has said as he vowed to ramp up vaccination in the coming months with the expected arrival of millions of doses. Galvez expressed confidence that the general population will start getting their COVID-19 shots in late April or early May. The 1,125,600 doses that have arrived in the Philippines so far are reserved for health workers, the top priority in the vaccination program. A total of 215,997 doses have been administered as of March 15. Cochrane, however, said that for the “laggards such as the Philippines and Indonesia, immunity may not be achieved until 2023.” “This will make it quite difficult for the travel industry to rebound across the region any time soon...,” he said. In 2020, the Philippine economy contracted by 9.5%, its worst performance on record since the end of World War II. (Their bodies and immune system are growing old. They’ll find it hard to recover [from Covid-19] if they’re not vaccinated),” she said. However, dela Vega added, senior citizens with severe immune deficiency - human immunodeficiency virus - or undergoing chemotherapy must consult their doctors before deciding to be vaccinated. (MNS)

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Weekend Balita (Los Angeles edition) March 20, 2021

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