The Filipino Press: February 2-8, 2024

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Local Assistance Center Helps Hundreds of Flood Victims

By Tracy DeFore/CSDCO SAN DIEGO, CA -- In four days, a total of 1,375 households visited the County’s Local Assistance Center and received information on how to recover from the Jan. 22 storm. The heavy rains and resulting floods devastated homes and neighborhoods.

The Local Assistance Center closed its doors Wednesday evening but not before offering flood victims a wide range of services designed to help them get back on their feet.

The one-stop shop opened Sunday with representatives from more than a dozen County departments. They helped with needs such as: • Document replacement • Preventative health services • Mental health support • Financial and food assistance • Pet supplies • Cleanup • Rebuilding services The American Red Cross, San Diego Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, San Diego Gas and Electric, several nonprofit organizations and State representatives from the DMV, Contractors State License Board and Department of Insurance were on hand too.

Flood victims also had a chance to pet several support dogs as a way to release some of the stress from their ordeal.

As part of the Day of Service

through flood waters. Turn Around.

Don’t Drown!• Stay informed: Monitor the weather and the news.

Wednesday, residents dropped off donations at the center. Flood victims picked up much needed supplies like socks, food, storage bins, blankets and pillows along with fresh fruit and vegetables.

People who still need services can call 2-1-1 for referrals.

Forecasters predict heavy rains in the days ahead. The County’s Emergency Operations Center urges

people who live in flood-prone areas to prepare by protecting their property, cleaning drains and having a go-kit ready in case you need to leave your home.

Residents can stay informed by registering for AlertSanDiego.org and downloading the SD Emergency mobile app on their smart phone.

People are still recovering from last week’s rains and floods. And

WYYERD FIBER LAUNCHES 5 GIG SERVICES-Fast, reliable, and competitively priced

By Adam Behar NATIONAL CITY, CA -Families and businesses are well accustomed to the pitfalls of lowquality streaming. You’re watching your favorite TV show or conducting an important video call, and suddenly your monitor or device freezes or is interrupted by buffering. Can you say, annoying!

That’s often due to old technology like cable. Fortunately, Wyyerd Fiber is offering a new solution to National City and Chula Vista residents and businesses. It’s called 5 GIG symmetrical fiber internet service. What this means for you, says the company’s president and general manager Dennis Kyle, is “fast, reliable, and competitively priced fiber internet.” How fast?

Up to twice the speed they were delivering before.

Wyyerd Fiber has offices in Arizona and right here in National City, and prides itself on being hyper-local. Their customer service agents speak Tagalog, English, and Spanish, because they want to be representative of the communities they serve, he says.

The company is doing a gradual roll-out of the new technology, so it’s not yet available in every neighborhood or street. Currently, says Kyle, it’s available in sections of National City including Palm Readerville, Lincoln Acres, Sweetwater, and West Plaza Boulevard. It’s also in Eastlake and Otay Ranch. As we speak, installations are occurring in Hilltop, Kenwood Village, Moss Street/Linda Park, Sunbow East and the Village of Montecito.

Kyle says the technology is not just for residents living in homes

weather officials are predicting potentially heavy rains starting Thursday. So County officials are urging the public to be safe.

Know your situation. If you don’t have to leave home, don’t. If you can work from home, do so.

If you don’t have to drive, stay off the streets and out of areas that could flood.

“If you live in a flood prone area,

take necessary precautions, protect your family and property, have a plan and a go kit so you are ready,” said County Emergency Services Director Jeff Toney.

Important Reminder – County Urging Public to Take Precautions as More Rains Arrive

By Gig Conaughton/CSDCO

Other Tips To Stay Safe • Do not walk, swim or drive

• If you haven’t already, register your cell phone to receive alerts.

• Get local updates at AlertSD. org, download the County emergency app to receive alerts, follow the County on social media and listen to local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions regarding flooding.

• Evacuate immediately if told to evacuate or if you feel unsafe. In case you are separated during a disaster, discuss where to reunite because phone service may not be reliable during a disaster.

• If evacuating, disconnect all electrical appliances; turn off electricity at the panel, gas service at the meter, and water at the main valve.

• Get to the highest level if trapped in a building. Only get on the roof if necessary and once there signal for help. Do not climb into a closed attic to avoid getting trapped by rising floodwater.

• Have contingency plans for different times of the day, such as an emergency while some family members are at work or school.

• Contact your healthcare provider if you are sick and need medical attention. Wait for further care instructions and shelter in place, if possible. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

National School District Celebrates School Board Recognition Month

January is time to acknowledge the school board and its role in supporting student achievement

Dennis Kyle, president WYYERD FIBER and apartments but also for small to medium-sized businesses and bigger companies too.

Other benefits include ease of use, a flat monthly fee, and no contracts or promotions.

There are different payment plans available, depending on how much speed you need and how much you want to pay, ranging from $65 to $150 per month.

“For the product and the performance, we're the lowest price in the marketplace and the best value,” says Kyle.

“The launch of 5 GIG symmetrical services is just another step in our continuous evolution to provide the best possible user experience, with the fastest speeds, via the most future-proof technology available,” said Wyyerd’s EVP of Strategy and Product, Kate Rodriguez.

Wyyerd is a proud member of the local community and takes

pride in giving back by supporting local causes, Kyle told me. “We've sponsored the Chula Vista 5k, local sports sponsorships, and handed out turkeys with Mayor Morrison on Thanksgiving,” he says.

If you’re interested in having lightning-fast 5 GIG technology, call Wyyerd at their National City office at (619) 732-6100. Just give them your home, apartment or business address and they can tell you right away if they’re currently doing installations in your area – and if not, when. Learn more at: wyyerd.com.

Costumer Service

NATIONAL CITY, CA -National School District is proud to join more than 1,000 local educational agencies in the state in recognizing the contributions of board members during School Board Recognition Month. “Our elected board members are a vital link between the school district and the community,” said National School District Superintendent, Dr. Leighangela Brady. “The board sets the foundation and vision for the district, directs resources where they are most needed, and ensures accountability to the community by monitoring progress toward goals. Their end goal, of course, is to support and elevate student achievement.”

At this month’s Governing Board meeting, National School District Administrators presented trustees with a proclamation honoring board members for the exceptional work that they do for students, families, staff, and the National City community. With a district focus this

year of ‘striving together,’ leaders of the National School District wanted to celebrate the contributions of the Governing Board. “I hope you will join me in celebrating our dedicated board members for their support of our students through effective policies, and for their continuing advocacy for more resources at the state level,” said Superintendent Brady.

National School District board members are Ms. Michelle Gates, Ms. Rocina Lizarraga, Ms. Barbara Avalos, Ms. Maria Betancourt– Castañeda, and Ms. Alma Sarmiento.

Ms. Gates currentlyserves as Board President and Ms. Lizarraga as the Clerk.

Palmer Way School Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Opening of New Playground National School District unveiled Palmer Way School’s newly renovated playground on Wednesday, January 31, 2024. Playground gates were opened on Plaza Ave. from 7:30-8:30 a.m. for students to tour their parents

and guardians around a new play area including LEED color basketball courts, whiffle ball field, a soccer field, gaga pit, pickle ball courts, oversized musical instruments, and more. The playground also includes electronic games powered by kids.

Governing Board President, Michelle Gates, was thrilled to see results of the Board’s unanimous vote to use Expanded Learning Opportunities Program funds to upgrade several of the District's playgrounds. “Trustees have been championing initiatives to enhance physical recreation options for students both within and beyond the school hours. These playgrounds inspire a desire to engage in outdoor play.”

District Superintendent, Dr. Leighangela Brady, agrees. “This dynamic space caters to a diverse range of interests, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The comprehensive design of the playground reflects a commitment See SCHOOL BOARD on

National School District Celebrates School Board Recognition month

6

2 • February 2, 2024 - February 8, 2024

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2024 Presidensyal na Primaryang Eleksyon Boboto para sa presidente? Ang inyong rehistrasyon para sa pampulitikang partido ang tutukoy kung sinong mga presidensyal na kandidato ang makikita sa inyong balota.

Matuto nang higit pa sa sdvote.com.

Ang bawat aktibong rehistradong botante sa County ng San Diego ay makakatanggap ng balota sa koreo sa linggo ng Ika-4 ng Pebrero.

BUMOTO! MAS MARAMING ARAW. MAS MARAMING PARAAN.

INYONG MGA OPSYON SA PAGBOTO: Kumpletuhin ang inyong balota sa ginhawa ng inyong tahanan. Pirmahan, at petsahan ang inyong sobreng pagbabalikan, i-seal ang inyong nakumpletong balota sa loob, at ibalik ito sa pamamagitan ng U.S. Postal Service - hindi kinakailangan ng selyo!

Ibalik ang inyong balota sa alinmang opisyal na mga ballot drop box ng Tagapagrehistro sa buong county na magsisimula sa Martes, Ika-6 ng Pebrero hanggang sa Araw ng Eleksyon, Martes, Ika-5 ng Marso.

IPAKOREO ITO.

IHULOG ITO.

Iwasan ang mahahabang pila sa pamamagitan ng paggamit ng benepisyo sa maagang pagboto! Simula Sabado, Ika-24 ng Pebrero, magbubukas araw-araw ang mga vote center mula ika-8 ng umaga hanggang ika-5 ng hapon hanggang Lunes, Ika-4 ng Marso.

Sa Araw ng Eleksyon, Martes, Ika-5 ng Marso, ang mga oras ng botohan ay mag-iiba mula ika-7 ng umaga hanggang ika-8 ng gabi.

Humanap ng ballot drop box o vote center na malapit sa inyo sa sdvote.com

POR CORREO.

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IPAKOREO ITO. IHULOG ITO.

Main (858) 565-5800 | Toll Free (800) 696-0136 | sdvote.com |

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Filipino Press

February 2, 2024 - February 8, 2024 • 3

4 • February 2, 2024 - February 8, 2024

Filipino Press

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Separate Mindanao a 'practical impossibility' — law expert MANILA -- The idea of Mindanao seceding from the Philippines is a practical impossibility, constitutional law expert Domingo "Egon" Cayosa said Thursday.

"Sa ngayon, mukhang practical impossibility 'yan. Sapagkat, una, sa Konstitusyon natin, malinaw na pinapangalagaan nga ang territorial integrity ng Pilipinas," said Cayosa, a former president of the Integrated Bar of Philippines (IBP).

Former President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday mentioned the idea of Mindanao seceding from the Philippines through a process based on gathering signatures.

Davao Del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez, whom Duterte credited as a pioneering advocate of an independent Mindanao, on Wednesday said Speaker Martin Romualdez's handling of the ongoing people's initiative has added fire to renewed calls for Mindanao's secession.

Cayosa, however, said that through a people's initiative process, each legislative district across the country must be represented by at least 3% of the registered voters.

"Kahit 100% pipirma ang Mindanao, kung ang Batanes hindi pumirma, wala sa bilang, wala din mangyayari. O kaya Camiguin o kaya Manila, Quezon City," he said.

"Kasi mahirap mo din kumbinsihin ang buong bansa na sino ba namang matinong Pilipino ang papayag mag watak-watak ang ating republika," he added.

Cayosa asserted that changing governments or separating the country's territories are no longer minor amendments, and must be achieved through a constitutional amendment or constituent assembly.

Last Wednesday, former Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio branded the call for a separate Mindanao as "foolishness" and "just a slogan."

"There is nothing to secede, it is against the Constitution. That is threatening the integrity of the national territory," Carpio said.

Mindanaoans Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III have distanced themselves from Duterte's plan. Zubiri said the move was "the last thing that we want."

In the House of Representatives, Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers expressed readiness to study the proposal. For his part, Zamboanga City Rep. Manuel Jose "Mannix" Dalipe said outright that, "Ayaw naming humiwalay (We do not want to secede)."

Alvarez said he and fellow advocates are planning to go around Mindanao to gather signatures of support for the initiative.

Aside from Duterte and Alvarez, late Cagayan de Oro mayor Reuben Canoy pushed for Mindanao's independence decades earlier.

Canoy is the author of the 1987 book, "The Quest for Mindanao Independence", and was a member of the Duterte administration's Consultative Committee, which drafted proposed changes to the Charter including a shift to federalism.

In 1986, a convention was held in Cagayan de Oro attended

by some 500 political, civic, and professional leaders who pushed for the separation of Mindanao from the Philippines. The gathering also reportedly discussed the future constitution of the proposed Mindanao Federal Republic.

The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and its breakaway faction, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), were also known as Muslim separatist movements that fought the government.

The MNLF signed a peace agreement with the government in 1996, while the MILF had its peace pact in 2014.

The peace deal with the groups resulted in the establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao instead of a separate state.

Duterte bares signature-based plan for separate Mindanao Former President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday night raise the idea of Mindanao seceding from the Philippines also through a process based on gathering signatures.

At a news conference in Davao City, Duterte said it was Davao Del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez who first pushed for the "desirability of Mindanao seceding from the Republic of the Philippines."

"Kaya ko siya inilagay so that we can pursue. By this time you would know the wherewithal .

Hindi naman rebellion, hindi 'yan sedition," Duterte said.

"There's a process, I think, before the UN [United Nations] wherein you would gather signatures from all sorts of Mindanao verified under oath in the presence of so many people [to] decide that we want a separate..." Duterte said.

"Kaya kung ganu'n lang naman kayo diyan sa Luzon, sa Visayas, bahala kayo," he added.

Duterte has repeatedly criticized the signature campaign for a people's initiative to change the 1987 Constitution.

He has linked President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., who's from Ilocos Norte, and Speaker Martin Romualdez, who's from Leyte, to the Charter change campaign.

Marcos and Romualdez have been pushing for amendments to the economic provisions of Constitution.

In Hanoi, Marcos said he didn't know if people's initiative was still an option as a mode for Cha-cha.

Duterte said Cha-cha was meant to perpetuate some people in power.

"Mindanao is rich. But of course, kung mag-separate independent 'to at magpuntahan lahat dito ang Pilipino, then, it's gonna be a big problem," Duterte said.

"So in its growing years, you have to restrict. But you can come.

Mga taga-Luzon, Visayas, we will not deny you," he added.

Duterte said nothing has happened to the Philippines even after so many presidents.

"Gusto ko talaga. Gusto ko na (I really want it. I already want it)," Duterte said of a separate Mindanao.

"Nagsawa na ako sa kwan. Ilang presidente na kasi e... Walang nangyari sa Pilipinas," he added.

Duterte: Why would PDEA release a derogatory report on Marcos?

Former President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday night countered the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency's pronouncement that President Marcos was ever on its drug watch list.

At a news conference in Davao City, Duterte said he would release it to the public when he gets his hands on the said document.

Duterte on Sunday at a rally against people's initiative and Charter change said that Marcos was on the PDEA's drug watch list.

On Monday, the PDEA said that the President was not.

"Sabi mo ngayon, 'yung PDEA wala raw record. Itong mga PDEA, mga ugok 'to. Sino ba namang PDEA magbigay... 'Sir, ito yung record mo d'un sa narco," Duterte said.

"But anyway, hanapin ko 'yun.

As soon as it is in my hands, I will release it," he added. "'Yung Presidente manghingi ng sarili niyang derogatory report, ibigay mo? Tingnan mo kung wala na si Marcos, maglabasan uli 'yan," Duterte said.

(Will you give it to him if the President asks for a derogatory report on himself? If Marcos is no longer there, these will again come out.)

Marcos on Monday laughed off the allegations that he was an addict.

“I think it’s the fentanyl," was Marcos' reply when asked about Duterte's speech in Davao City.

"It is highly addictive and it has very serious side effects. And PRRD [President Rodrigo D. Duterte] has been taking the drug for a very long time now. When was the last time he told us that he was taking fentanyl? (Around) five, six years ago? Something like that.

After five, six years it has to affect him," Marcos told reporters.

Asked to categorically deny that he is involved in illegal drugs, Marcos laughed and said, "I won't even dignify the question."

Duterte during the nighttime news conference criticized the attempts to change the Constitution, which he attributed to Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez.

The PDEA on Monday said Marcos Jr. was never on its drug watch list.

"The [PDEA] categorically states that President Ferdinand R Marcos, Jr is not in its watch list, contrary to the statement of former President Rodrigo Duterte, claiming that 'when he was the Mayor of Davao, he was shown evidence by PDEA that in the list, the name of the president was there,'" the agency said in a statement.

"The NDIS is the intelligence database of all drug personalities, gathering inputs from counterparts in both law enforcement and intelligence agencies. Pursuant to its mandate under Republic Act 9165, or The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, PDEA regularly conducts intelligence workshops in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies to update the NDIS," it added.

"From its inception in 2002 and up to the present, President Ferdinand R Marcos, Jr was never in our NDIS," PDEA said. (MNS)

RECYCLING. Plastic trash collected for the “Palit Basura Para Sa Pagkain Sa Mesa” (Trash for Food) project in Barangay Addition Hills, Mandaluyong City. The discarded materials will be converted into eco boards as substitutes for the more expensive boards and plywoods, with a kilo of trash equivalent to points that can be exchanged for food items. (MNS photo)

EXCLUSIVE. Workers smoothen the pavement of the elevated bicycle lane being constructed along Elliptical Road in Diliman, Quezon City on Monday (Jan. 22, 2024). Metro Manila's largest city aims to become the cycling capital of the Philippines by expanding its bicycle lanes to 350 kilometers by 2025 from the current 178 km. (MNS photo)

Comelec: PI proponents in Antique town withdraw signature sheets MANILA -- A town in Antique has withdrawn its submitted signature sheets before the local office of the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Comelec chairperson George Erwin Garcia said the proponents of the people’s initiative (PI) in the municipality of Hamtic retrieved their signature sheets on Wednesday.

"Okay lang po i-withdraw sa amin pero pakibalik po ang aming Certification na na-issue pertaining to the signatures (It is fine with us if they withdraw it but may we request for them to return the certification that we issued pertaining to the signatures),” the poll body chief added.

The Comelec earlier urged PI proponents to retrieve the signature lists they have submitted after the proceedings for this method to amend the Constitution have been suspended indefinitely.

The Office of the Election Officer (OEC) issues a certification acknowledging that it has received documents, including signature lists.

According to the memorandum issued by Hamtic Election Officer Mario Meynard Miciano, a total of 3,757 signatures contained in 387 pages were retrieved by one Israel de Guzman, who represents petitioner Anthony Abad.

Upon retrieval, de Guzman returned the original certification issued to him last Jan. 23, the same day the signature sheets were submitted.

Garcia reiterated that the suspension is being implemented nationwide.

The poll body reported that 1,129 city and municipal OEOs in 210 legislative districts have already received their signature sheets since Monday.

Careful study needed Meanwhile, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) believed that any measures to amend the Constitution should be studied well.

“It was created to ensure the well-being of every Filipino citizen.

As the former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Hilario Davide Jr., said about our Constitution, 'It is the only Constitution that is pro-God, pro-Filipino, pro-People, pro-Poor, pro-Life, pro-Law, pro-Family, proMarriage, pro-Human Rights, proWomen, and pro-Environment..."

That is good! Therefore, any discussion about it is crucial and should not be taken lightly,” the CBCP said in a statement.

The CBCP also said the indefinite suspension of the PI proceedings serves as an opportunity for the public to understand charter change.

Comelec vows tight watch vs. multiple registrants during voter sign-up The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will tighten its watch against multiple registrants during the resumption of voter registration next month.

"The public can be assured that each applicant – new, transfers, correction – will go through our cleansing process so that we can ensure that there will be no multiple registrants," Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said in an interview Wednesday.

He also assured lawmakers that the current voters list has been

cleared of multiple registrants.

"The current voters list we have is now practically clean," he said.

Laudiangco said the poll body has cleansed the voters list before the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).

"Just last year, almost 500,000 registration records have been cleansed from the voters list," he said. The poll body made the assurance in response to a resolution filed by House of Representatives Assistant Majority Leader and Leyte 4th District Rep. Richard Gomez, urging it to cleanse and update its list of voters.

Under House Resolution 1542, Gomez said, it is important for the Comelec to cleanse the voters list ahead of the voter registration period for the forthcoming 2025 midterm polls.

The Comelec is looking to register about 3 million voters, during the registration period for the 2025 midterm polls, which runs from Feb. 12 to Sept. 30 this year.

Comelec may hold simultaneous PI signatures' check, voter sign-up The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Tuesday revealed a possible plan to lessen the possible impact of People’s Initiative (PI) proceedings on the resumption of voter registration which is set to start next month.

Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said they are ready to verify signatures for PI and at the same time conduct the voter registration activities.

“Hypothetically, should the Signature Verification ensue (after a formal Petition for People's Initiative has been deemed sufficient in form and substance by the Commission en banc) during the period for Voter's Registration, the Election Officer shall be the one to proceed with the signature verification in the Office of the Election Officer, while the Election Assistant shall serve as acting Election Officer for purposes of voter's registration specifically in Mall/Offsite/Satellite/Out-of-Office Registration Sites,” the poll body official said in a statement.

At the same time, he reiterated that acceptance of signature sheets for the PI has been indefinitely suspended.

“We restate for the record, however, that with the suspension of Resolution No. 10650, all Comelec Offices have been directed not to receive signature pages anymore, and to stop from proceeding with: 1) the counting of the signatures contained therein, and 2) issuance of any certification therefor,” Laudiangco added.

Meanwhile, he noted that though the Commission en banc has issued the suspension, proponents of the PI are not prevented from gathering signatures.

“Yun lang hindi namin tatanggapin or bibilangin ang mga isa-submit nila. As of 1 p.m.

Monday, may 1,129 cities and municipalities na nakatanggap na ng signatures. Comprise ito sa 210 legislative districts (The only thing is that we would not accept or count the signatures that they would submit.

As of 1 p.m. Monday, there are 1,129 cities and municipalities that have received signatures. It comprises 210 legislative districts),” the Comelec spokesperson added.

Stakeholders reaction

Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal lauded the decision of the Comelec to stop proceedings on PI. “From the very beginning, it has been my position that receiving these signature sheets is very premature because the rules pertaining to the conduct of initiative cannot be filed ahead of the petition. Since Comelec admitted that no petition has yet been filed for any initiative, then it is very clear that the act of receiving these signature sheets is premature and will not serve any useful purpose,” the lawyer added.

Meanwhile, the Legal Network for Truthful Elections (LENTE) said they will continue to be vigilant against the move of PI proponents, amid reports that people are being promised of government benefits or financial assistance in exchange for signing the PI petitions.

The group added that they will work with other organizations to make sure that the process will be in accordance with the law.

It also urged the public to report to them if they have received offers, both monetary or in kind, in exchange of their signatures. (MNS) Comelec suspends people's initiative proceedings The Commission on Election on Monday said its en banc suspended all proceedings related to the people's initiative that seeks to revise the 1987 Constitution.

The Comelec has received signature forms from hundreds of towns and cities for the people's initiative. But the campaign has faced allegations of signature-buying and questions on legality.

The poll body said it suspended the proceedings as it needed to revisit the resolution governing a people’s initiative.

"A lot of questions are questions of first instance… We are realizing mukhang maraming tanong kaya siguro kailangan ma-revisit muna," Comelec Commissioner Ernesto Maceda Jr. said.

Under the initiative, senators and congressmen will vote jointly on charter change proposals, instead of separately as two houses of Congress.

Joint voting would mean the Senate's 24 members will be outnumbered by the House of Representatives' more than 300 lawmakers.

Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva said the suspension of people's initiative proceedings was a "triumph" for the country.

"Tumugon ang pamahalaan sa totoong damdamin ng taumbayan.

Hindi pa po tapos ang laban, patuloy po tayong manalangin at magbantay para siguruhing maprotektahan ang Konstitusyon na siyang kaluluwa ng ating bayan," he said in a statement.

Sen. JV Ejercito said he was "glad to know that there are still many government officials who are sensible, who respect our Constitution and who will defend our democracy in the face of sinister attempts to subvert it."

"This move is Comelec's acknowledgement of limitations of its authority. I repeat, the Comelec has no authority under the law to formulate guidelines on people's initiative, even to accept signatures," added Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros added they would "continue to be vigilant."

(MNS)

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MY THREE ADORABLE GRANDCHILDREN: MY BEST FRIENDS FOREVER… SAN DIEGO, CA – Greetings to all!

I say there truly is no relationship like that between a grandchild and a grandparent. While each is unique, there is often a bond that goes deep and a source of love that is limitless. Indeed, it’s a connection that deserves to be celebrated.

Although, National Grandparent’s Day is still a bit far aways – on Sept. 10 this year – I believe this is a good opportunity to reflect on all the special memories they shared.

As American writer and the author of the 1976 book “Roots: The Saga of an American Family” Alex Haley once said, “Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do. Grandparents sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of little children.”

And I add “Amen” to that!

When we come to be parents, we love our children. It’s a natural process. But when we become grandparents, we truly realize the meaning of love.

Grandchildren are nature’s biggest gift. They bring rainbows, sunshine and a whiff of fresh air in your old age. They say genes skip a generation. Maybe that’s why grandparents find their grandchildren so lovable, much more than even their own children.

I am blessed with three beautiful grandchildren, and one look at them and my heart says: “You are the child of my child, and your life is a joy to me. I am grateful to have you in my life.” As I watch through the generations, I am reminded that the bond we form are as everlasting as the spirit.

God has always been kind to me and my wife Zeny. The Almighty has blessed us with a granddaughter and two grandsons.

Our one-and-only granddaughter is a young adult now, graduated from the UC Berkeley (Founded in 1868, the University of California Berkeley is a public research university and the flagship of the ten research universities affiliated with the University of California system), pursuing her new career in advanced technology systems at the Department of Defense based here in San Diego. We call her Taylor with love. Being the first grandchild, she is special to my heart. Every time I think of her, I remember this adorable little girl with smiles and a laughter which touches our hearts. Thank you, God for blessing us with a granddaughter.

Taylor, pretty, darling child: I believe that God made granddaughters to give our lives variety, and to keep our hearts young.

“God draped each morning

Having looked at the resume of Pope Francis, he is a complex thinker whose theological and yes, political views do not fit neatly common categories we often box people in. He has a wide range of views from being illiberal to radical. He is clearly influenced by traditional Catholic past, liberal ideas of the Society of Jesus, and tempered liberation theology of Peruvian Gustavo Gutierrez, Archbishop Oscar Romero of El Salvador, and Jesuit scholar Jon Sobrino, and the radical views of Jesus Christ.

This is the richness that Pope Francis brings to the table. He prefers unity over conflict and realities rather than abstract ideas or theories. Most importantly, he prefers the whole (i.e., Catholic Church) instead of parts (i.e., conservative cardinals or bishops).

Meaning, that the future of the Catholic Church is more important to him than the whining of Cardinal Burke and the like.

In his papal writings such as Evangelii Gaudium and Laudato Sí, the moral reasoning and

with sunshine, and sprinkled each night with songs. He hollowed out spaces for laughter, and created joys to last long after; then reserved a special place for tenderness when God made granddaughters.”

Taylor has been a brilliant student throughout her educational career.

She did her schooling from San Diego’s very own public schools where she was the MVP (Most Valuable Player) of her winningest high school volleyball team. She did her college graduation from UC Berkeley as I have indicated earlier and went to work for the government. I can go on about all of her career conquests but I would just like to say that she makes me proud – today and always.

As a child, Taylor loved to listen to stories I would tell her.

She would get into splits of free laughter when her grandma and I gossiped about various things, and we made a great team.

It is and has always been a beautiful relationship.

For my beloved wife Zeny (Taylor’s grandmother) and me, Taylor has always represented goodness in this world. She has this beautiful ability to connect to the unknown, create a safe space for people to open up and share and offer friendship for life. A rare combination of abilities to my wizened eye.

Now about Jacob and Riker, our Grandsons: God has also blessed us with two grandsons who are our little angels without wings.

Jacob is the elder one, just having turned 20 last Halloween (31 October 2023) and a very enterprising young man. He is still in school – at the Southwestern College that is. He is an avid professional wrestling fan and an accomplished video gamer hobbyist. He and his group of friends run around talking about food, “WrestleMania” and video game experiences.

Jacob is also a grounded child, who has immense love for his family. He loves building things and projects, friendship, and communities alike.

On my 76 birthdays, Jacob wrote a heart touching letter to me. “It’s your day to relax, Grandpa…You’re always so generous with your time, your help, and most of all your love. Thank you for being the best grandpa a family could ever have.

Happy Birthday with Love…” It is now framed and sits on the top of our family’s memorabilia display counter. This love is definitely priceless.

Our junior (in fact, he is the youngest of my three grandchildren) grandson – Riker – is 14-monthsold. One look at him, and you can see why God send angels on this

ethical theories remain constant.

Understanding them clarify what Pope Francis believes are his operative priorities in areas like pastoral practice (blessing of samesex couples), theological analysis (imperfect people need God’s blessings as well), and pluralistic dialogue (speaking and listening reveals both common understanding and real differences). For those who don’t understand where he is coming from, he appears like a bully, a dictator.

One of the first things he did as Pope Francis was to issue his first Apostolic Exhortation “Evangelii Gaudium” (The Joy of the Gospel) on November 24, 2013, at the conclusion of the Year of Faith. The exhortation is 220 plus pages plus the indices. It is not a publication one can read and understand easily without exercising patience and days, if not months, of contemplation. Reading and understanding this publication is key to understanding “Fiducia.”

Pope Francis took a perpetual vow as a Jesuit and that is what he brings to the table – his loyalty and

earth to protect us. A smile that can melt the hardiest of hearts…I sincerely believe baby Riker will

The author with his very first grandson Jacob who is now a 20-years-old college student.

February 2, 2024 - February 8, 2024 • 5

Jesse T. Reyes

Filipino Potpourri

The author with his new (and youngest) grandchild Riker and one-and-only granddaughter Taylor who is now a young adult civil service worker.

BEST FRIENDS FOREVER: The proud author (extreme right) and his lovely wife Zeny (left) posed for posterity with their three adorable grandchildren - Taylor, Jacob and Riker - at their residential home in the South Bay. grandsons to keep us energetic, and always on our toes, to bless our love with laughter and hold our memories close, to lighten our days and brighten our ways.”

Although born and brought up in the United States, all of our grandchildren gave us unaccountable love – just like the culture in our beloved old country – the Philippines. Grandchildren are truly the dots that connect the lines from generation to generation.

Even with all the luxuries in the world at their disposal, all my grandchildren have retained the traditional Filipino’s cultural way of life.

I say, too those grandkids proved the maxim right that uncles and aunts, and cousins, are all very well, and fathers and mothers are not to be despised; but a grandmother (and a grandfather, for that matter) at holiday time, is worth of them all.

There are no doubts about it that the moment grandparents enter the room, all restrictions fly out of the window. And none of the things are more delightful than grandchildren fighting over your lap.

Our grandchildren accept us

for ourselves, without rebuke or effort to change us, as no one in our entire lives has ever done – not our parents, siblings, spouses, friends, for sure – and hardly even over our own grown children.

There’s nothing like a grandchild to put a smile on your face, a lump in your throat and a warm feeling in your heart.

Truly, blessed are those who have grandchildren!

Amen!!

Mabuhay!!!

So Much Ado About “Fiducia Supplicans,” Part 2

for their oppressive ways. Francis of Assisi, as commanded by Jesus, journeyed to Egypt to meet a Muslim sultan.

Pope Francis traveled to the Gulfkingdom of Bahrain last year and met with Muslim leaders to continue what Francis of Assisi began – interfaith dialogue. He said that “interreligious dialogue requires sincerity and mutual respect to be fruitful. Inter-religious dialogue and ecumenism are key components for achieving synodality. In “Fiducia,” he is trying to make peace with those shunned by the church and bring Jesus’ teachings on mercy and charity. So, the pope is being consistent and true to his beliefs and vision.

In today’s current state of play, “On this rock I will build my church” is interpreted by Francis as rebuilding or reforming the Universal Church (not only the Catholic Church) through Peter the Rock who was given the keys of the kingdom of heaven and insists on going back to the Acts of the Apostle for restart. The pope is seeing himself as a disciple of Jesus out to carry out his Trinity-given mission of mercy as he rebuilds a community (universal church for the world).

“Fiducia” has all the markings of Pope Francis’ dreams he elucidated in his first encyclical Lumen Fidei (Light of Faith) to have the light of faith that Francis of Assisi and Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta brought to the poor, including those poor in spirit.

GRANDFATHER AND GRANDSON HEARTWARMING VIRAL PHOTOGRAPH: The author's wife Zeny took a powerful picture of Grandpa Jesse and their 14-months-old grandson Riker napping together which captured the hearts of their immediate circle of family, friends and relatives including those back in the old homeland - the Philippines. be a deep thinker in the near future.

At this very young age - To me he already seems so “advanced” in everything else.

FYI: My wife Zeny recently took a heartwarming candid photograph of Riker and I taking an afternoon nap together which went viral …well, I say at least within our immediate circle of family, friends and relatives including those back in our beloved old homeland – the Philippines – Ha-ha-ha-ha! The powerful picture captured the hearts

dedication to evangelize in the name of Jesus. He brought to Rome a whole new vision that is rooted in the joy of the Gospel. As a bishop, then archbishop and as a Cardinal, Jorge Bergoglio was a man of humility who constantly championed the causes of justice and service to the poor.

Let’s begin with Revelation 3:20, the starting point of Pope Francis’ papacy. It reads “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will enter his house and dine with him, and he with me.” Over the years, the Church interpreted this as the faithful entering the Church to have an encounter with Jesus.

Pope Francis is saying otherwise.

His understanding is rooted in the Acts of the Apostles with Jesus’ first word, “Follow me!” and his last words commanding the apostles to go out there and evangelize.

Pope Francis suggested in “Evangelii Gaudium” that Jesus was not knocking for the purpose of entering but inviting the church to come out with him into the world where he sent his apostles, especially to the peripheries. Francis’ pastoral vision of moving the doors towards the peripheries, to embrace the poor, the vulnerable, and those who felt

of our – like I’ve said – adjoining family, friends and relatives … so for posterity’s sake, I thought I should also share this with you all – my dear readers – hence this little piece on this particular edition of my column.

When I am in the company of my grandsons, I am reminded of this beautiful quote: “God made grandsons – God blended a pinch of mischiefs with two parts of love and joy; He added a special sparkle to each special boy. God made

outcast by the very church they used to love, is a recurring theme in his encyclicals. Pope Francis is asking us to embrace all of God’s people, not just the poor and isolated, those in prison, orphaned, widowed, sick, including gay and lesbian, and proclaim the joy of the Gospel without prejudice.

To journey and accompany the people of God is to commune and listen to each of these individuals to understand how God might be speaking to us. Each person is unique in a way that only God knows what’s unique about them. Listening is without making judgement and accompanying them under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. When a priest gives his pastoral blessing to same-sex couple or a divorcee, it is an opportunity for the priest to show pastoral charity and trust the Holy Spirit to do the rest.

The other theme that Pope Francis has embedded into his theological vision is one that is like St. Francis of Assisi’s life and mission – a poor pastor in the image and likeness of God’s poor son Jesus. He has repeatedly said before that he is “a sinner” against the light of God’s overwhelming mercy. “Jesus dying on the cross is God’s way of showing us the greatest example of mercy.

As pope, Francis models that of Simon Peter – the first pope of the Catholic Church. He introduced us to what can be considered as the “Peter Paradigm.” When Jesus gave Simon a new name Petros (Peter) the Rock (Gospel of Matthew 16:13-20), he entrusted him with shepherding a Christian community and sent him on a mission. Pope Francis understands Christ is the Messiah who entrusted Peter with a mission to evangelize. As Peter’s successor, he understands his missiology.

Synodality that Pope Francis is pushing for follows this framework of community, identity, and mission with St. Francis of Assisi as his mentor. Francis of Assisi embraced poverty with unprecedented zeal, relentless in his pursuit to reform the church in response to Jesus’ telling him through the San Damiano Cross in a chapel in Assisi, Italy “to rebuild My church,”- the Catholic Church, “which is falling into ruins.”

Furthermore, Francis of Assisi was asked by Jesus to “love nature and all living creatures as his sisters and brothers.” Pope Francis’ encyclical “Laudato Sí” is about taking care of planet earth and that climate change and environmental degradation is hurting the poor the most and castigating the wealthy

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New In Social Benefits In 2024 LOS ANGELES, CA -- In this month’s column, we want to share what is new in social benefits in 2024. If you have additional questions about Medicare, Medicaid, Affordable Care Act Health Insurance Marketplace, Social Security Retirement Benefit, Supplemental Security Income, or COVID/Flu vaccination, there are 3 ways you can reach us today: Call: (English) 1-800-336-2722, (Chinese Mandarin) 1-800-683742, (Chinese Cantonese) 1-800582-4218, (Korean) 1-800-582-4259, (Vietnamese) 1-800-582-4336 Email: askNAPCA@napca.org Mail: NAPCA Senior Assistance Center, 1511 3rd Avenue, Suite 914, Seattle, WA 98101

HIRING? PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! EMAIL: filpressads@aol.com 619-755-0755 school board

Continued from p­­­­­age

1

to fostering a holistic and inclusive educational experience.”

The District has also installed an updated ADA accessible ramp to the playground. “As the second oldest school District in San Diego County, these upgrades are long overdue,” said David Castillo, facilities director for the District. "These playgrounds are a perfect complement to our districtwide sustainability efforts,” said

Castillo. “The turf fields and drought friendly landscaping greatly reduce the District’s water usage, yet still provide the students with an inviting space to be physically active.”

Palmer Way School is located at 2900 Palmer Street National City, CA 91950 • (Playground located on Plaza Ave.) Questions?

Kindly email Superintendent@nsd.us The National School District serves approximately 4,400 students, preschool through sixth.

<Q1> How much income do I need to earn to get 1 Social Security work credit in 2024? Do I have to work all year to earn credits?

Credits are based on your income for the year. Each year the amount of earnings needed to earn one credit goes up slightly as average wages increase. In 2024, you earn 1 Social Security and Medicare credit for every $1,730 in covered earnings.

You must earn $6,920 to get the maximum 4 credits for the year. You might work all year to earn 4 credits, or you might earn enough for all 4 in much less time. You must earn a certain number of credits to qualify for Social Security benefits. No one needs more than 40 credits for any Social Security benefits. <Q2> I have retired and am receiving Social Security Retirement. Can I still apply for Medicaid and SSI? I heard there

is an income and asset limit. I own a house and a car. I also have life insurance.

You can get SSI or Medicaid if you are qualified based on income and assets threshold by each state.

One house and one car are exempt, but some life insurance is counted as an asset. The monthly maximum federal amounts for SSI in 2024 are $943 for an individual, or $1,415 for a couple. Some states may provide SSP (State Supplementary Payment) on top of the federal standard. For example, if you live in California and have no income, the monthly maximum payment would be $1,182 for an individual, or $2,022 for a couple. If your income has been increased, it would reduce your SSI amount. Note that the SSA has a special rule to calculate income. The most accurate way to find out whether you are eligible or not is to submit the application and receive the eligibility result through Social Security Administration.

Please contact us if you have any questions. <Q3> How much can I earn and still get benefits in 2024?

You can get Social Security retirement or survivors benefits and work at the same time. However, there is a limit to how much you can earn and still receive full benefits.

• If you are under full retirement age for the entire year, SSA deducts $1 from your benefit payments for every $2 you earn above the annual limit ($22,320 for 2024).

• In the year you reach full retirement age: Up to the month before you reach your full retirement age, SSA deducts $1 in benefits for every

$3 you earn above a different limit ($59,520 for 2024).

Beginning with the month you reach full retirement age, your earnings no longer reduce your benefits, no matter how much you earn.

SSA will recalculate your benefit amount to give you credit for the months SSA reduced or withheld benefits due to your excess earnings. <Q4> I read in the news that COVID-19 cases are on the rise recently. Is the latest vaccine still effective in protecting us?

COVID-19 activity is currently high. JN.1 is now the most widely circulating variant in the US and globally and may be intensifying the spread of COVID-19 this winter.

COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and deaths have increased in recent weeks.

Hospitalizations reached 32,861 in the week ending January 13 2024.

In that same period, deaths went up by 10.3%, with COVID-19 deaths accounting for 4.3% of total deaths in the US. Current COVID-19 vaccines are expected to increase protection against JN.1.

As of January 13 2024, only 21.5% of adults reported having received the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Only 40.9% of adults aged 65 years and older reported having received this vaccine, which is concerning given that they are at higher risk of hospitalization or death from COVID-19.

Please make sure you have the most recent vaccine which has been available since late September 2023. If your last vaccine was midSeptember or earlier, get vaccinated.

It's not too late.

Dear Readers, Do not hesitate to Email us your story tips, dear editor letter, business referral etc. at info@thefilipinopress.com Prayer to Saint Expedite May the intercession of the glorious martyr , St Expedite, recommend us, O my God, to Thy goodness, in order that his protection may obtain for us what our own merits are powerless to do.

Amen.

We supplicate Thee, Lord , to inspire by Thy grace all our thoughts and actions, that thou being their principle, we may, by the intercession of St. Expedite, be conducted with courage, fidelity and promptitude, at the time proper and favorable, and come to a good and happy end, through our Lord, Jesus Christ

Amen St Expedite, honored by the gratitude of those who have invoked thee at the last hour and for pressing cases, we pray thee to obtain from the all powerful goodness of God, by the intercession of Mary Immaculate, (today or such a day) the grace we solicit with all submission to the Divine Will Amen

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February 2, 2024 - February 8, 2024 • 7

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New Year's Resolutions Daily challenge list

By FRANCINE maigue

How are your New Year’s resolutions panning out so far, my pampered friends? Action plans are just as important as good intentions.

Believe in yourself as I believe in you, and set your goals into motion!

Cheers to those of you, who are accomplishing daily resolutions through The Pampered Pinay Project 2024! I hope you have found these weekly lists of resolution ideas helpful in jumpstarting your good health, prosperity, and well being for this year.

We are now on Batch #4 and are just a week away from completing our entire list of 366 daily challenges and achievements. Do not fear if you missed any of the lists! I will soon be posting all five batches up on my website, thepamperedpinay.com, where you can also track my personal progress and see which of the resolutions I have chosen to commit to daily. I encourage you to proudly share your own thoughts, requests, stories, photos, and progress on the site, too!

221. Take a brisk walk around your neighborhood.

At every corner, perform reps of lunges, rises, or knee lifts.

222. Donate your time at a senior citizens community.

223. Substitute agave for sugar.

224. Attend a homeowner’s meeting.

225. Tactfully tell someone if his/her words or actions make you uncomfortable.

226. Compost vegetable and fruit peelings.

227. Volunteer at a local school.

228. Exchange workout videos/DVDs with a friend.

229. Prepare to store clothing items as the seasons begin to change.

230. Support a local non-profit organization.

231. Drink at least two glasses of lemon water with each meal.

232. Give a testimonial for a business you believe in.

233. Try a generic brand of something.

(You may find that it’s cheaper AND just as effective as its name brand counterpart.)

234. Sterilize all your door handles.

235. Go on a photography hike.

236. Use only organic products when preparing a meal.

237. Try a henna tattoo

symbolizing one of your deepest convictions.

238. Research the history of someone you idolize.

239. Review your monthly budget, and compare it to your financial goals for the year.

240. Take a dance class.

241. Substitute iceberg or romaine lettuce for bread, tortillas, etc.

242. Update your business cards.

243. Display song lyrics, a poem, biblical passage, or story excerpt that inspires you.

244. With members of your household, discuss how your time can be better managed in order to incorporate more quality time with one another.

245. Host a purse exchange party.

246. Substitute fish in a dish that usually uses red meat.

247. Get a flu shot, and update any other necessary vaccinations.

248. As a gift, post an online video for someone that is important to you.

249. Make a timeline for your $avings goals.

250. Spend time with a member of your church/temple congregation.

251. Refresh your workout playlist.

252. Prepare coupons for your next grocery trip.

253. Donate books, CDs, videos from your childhood to a school or library.

254. Replace light bulbs with more eco-friendly ones.

255. Check your doorways and windows for drafts that need to be sealed.

256. Try reading before bed instead of watching TV. 257. Warm up your mind in the morning with a game.

258. When eating out, split your entrée into two equal parts.

Save one portion for your next meal.

259. Squeeze in an extra workout by walking several laps around the building you are leaving before heading to your car.

260. Collaborate with someone.

261. Overcome a fear.

262. For one day, replace rice, noodles, and bread with mixed vegetables.

263. Donate blood.

264. Freshen up a room’s décor

to best reflect the person you are today.

265. Jump rope.

266. Participate in a festival.

267. Revisit your investments.

268. Sanitize your telephones.

269. Renew your passport and/or update your passport photo.

270. Find a reason to dress to the nines.

271. Research local 5Ks, marathons, triathlons, and consider joining an event as a fitness goal.

272. Try a trend…then try setting one of your own.

273. Taste an “exotic” fruit in its purest form.

274. Window shop, and seek a “goal outfit” to inspire your fitness regimen.

275. Label containers.

276. Properly dispose or donate old electronics.

277. Use a reusable, fabric grocery bag instead of multiple plastic and paper ones. Only buy what you can carry.

278. Host a themed party.

279. (If 21 and older…) Make a conscious effort to pair a particular wine with a meal.

280. Substitute aloe vera for your usual lotion.

281. Use an air freshener that reminds you of a special time and place.

282. Sanitize sports gear/toys.

283. Research positions you may apply for.

284. Offer to mentor someone, who has a similar history to your own.

285. Try smiling as soon as you wake up in the morning.

286. Openly discuss with your household members your current, shared financial situation and how it may be improved.

287. Experiment with a new juice recipe that includes both fruits AND vegetables.

288. Consider how may make a work area more efficient and conducive to positive energy.

289. Invite someone to join you on a challenge.

290. Ladies, check your breasts for lumps.

291. Consider how you may refurbish a piece of furniture instead of buying a new version.

292. Give someone an old- school mix tape (or at least a CD)

with songs that remind you of her/him.

293. Dedicate a special project to someone who uplifts you.

As always, you have my full support, my pampered friends.

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SDG&E PREPARES FOR STORM CONDITIONS

Company Provides Safety Tips to Help Keep Customers Safe during Winter Storm SAN DIEGO, CA -- The safety of its customers, employees and the communities is of the utmost importance for SDG&E, which is why the company is taking proactive steps to prepare for the potential of back-to-back winter storms expected to arrive Thursday morning.

In anticipation of the forecasted wind and rain, SDG&E is increasing the number of field crews and equipment available to restore power as quickly and safely as possible should power outages occur. The company’s meteorology team is also monitoring weather conditions minute-by-minute to help provide situational awareness to front-line crews working to maintain the infrastructure that serves the region. However, preparedness is a community effort, and the company encourages all its customers to have a plan in place in case of unplanned outages.

To help customers prepare for the upcoming storms, the company is sharing the following safety tips to help keep customers and the region safe: If a customer sees a downed power line or damaged electrical equipment: Always assume a downed line is energized and stay away. Never touch a downed power line or damaged electrical equipment.

Call 9-1-1 and SDG&E at (800) 411-SDGE (7343) to report it.

If a person has come into contact with a power line, do not touch them.

Call 9-1-1 immediately.

If a downed line or other electrical equipment comes in contact with a car, customers should remain inside the vehicle and call 9-1-1 and SDG&E at 1 (800) 411-7343.

Secure any loose outdoor items like umbrellas, patio furniture and

garbage bins to prevent them from flying away and damaging power lines.

Drive safely. During storm conditions, the number of cars hitting transformers or power poles increases, so customers should slow down and allow more time for braking.

Have a plan and kit with essential supplies. Keep a battery-operated radio and flashlights handy in case the power goes out. Check the batteries now to make sure the equipment works, and do not rely on candles for lighting during a power outage.

Consider a backup plan if there is medical equipment in the house needed for health and safety.

Offer space and consideration for SDG&E crews working in the field so they can work safely to restore power as quickly as possible.

In the event a customer experiences a power outage, they are encouraged to visit sdge.com/ outages for status updates and to view SDG&E’s outage map.

About SDG&E: SDG&E is an innovative energy delivery company that provides clean, safe and reliable energy to better the lives of the people it serves in San Diego and southern Orange counties. The company is committed to creating a sustainable future by increasing energy delivered from low or zero-carbon sources; accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles; and investing in innovative technologies to ensure the reliable operation of the region’s infrastructure for generations to come. SDG&E is a subsidiary of Sempra (NYSE: SRE). For more information, visit SDGEnews.com or connect with SDG&E on X (formerly Twitter) (@SDGE), Instagram (@ SDGE) and Facebook.

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Spiritual Life Taking care of my heart As a professional health educator in my earlier life I used to “change the attitude and behavior of people towards better health.”

I organized health study groups - teenagers’ classes’, mothers’ classes. community health fora, and health fairs to create awareness, influence decisions, and translate into action the health knowledge and information provided on preventing disease, promoting health, and prolonging life. I was one of the ten graduates from the University of the Philippines with health education as my major field of study.

Health professionals are often more concerned about the health of others than their own health. That was what I observed and imbibed as I practiced my profession which started in a remote town, Oslob, in the province of Cebu, Philippines. I love my work and I was dedicated to improving the quality of life of others. After working as a Community Health Educator, I rose from the ranks and with a ladder-like promotion.

I reached the apex of my career that of Senior Health Education Adviser of the Bureau of Disease Control, Department of Health before I was invited to teach Social and Preventive Medicine in one of the Colleges of Medicine in Manila.

I was not mindful of my own health. In fact, I am physically strong, mentally alert, emotionally stable and socially involved. I got married to an athlete and we were blessed with seven children, most of whom are now in the health

Aurora S. Cudal-Rivera

My Personal Testimony

field. Health is wealth was my mantra. I encouraged others to eat healthy foods, to engage in physical fitness programs or at least exercise daily, to have a good night’s rest and sleep, to have an annual medical check-up and to follow your doctor’s advice.

Health education practitioners meet lots of challenges in their field. People often take their health for granted. They are focused on their job, on earning a living, and in sending their children to school, often forgetting that they have their own health to take care of. There is a very wide gap between what people know about health and what they do about it.

Health is not a priority but earning a living is a strong motivation.

My late husband was a chain smoker. I was concerned about his health so I practically nagged him every day to stop smoking to prevent cancer or emphysema.

He did not listen to me. But when I asked him if he can provide money to maintain the smoking habit of his four sons who may emulate him when they grow up, he listened and finally kicked the

habit.

I think I am one of those who took my heart for granted. I do not exercise. I do not eat healthy.

I do not get enough sleep and rest. I thought I’ll forever be in good health despite my unhealthy practices. One day, I was taken by 911 to the Emergency Room due to difficulty of breathing and I was diagnosed later as having hypertension. I felt a numbing pain in my chest. After all the needed test was done, the cardiologist discovered that my heart arteries were blocked. I was supposed to have an open heart surgery, but the cardiac team decided to be more conservative in managing my condition. Praise God, the team of intervention cardiologists, cardiac nurses and other members of the cardiac team successfully inserted four stents to open up the clogged arteries through my wrist. Now, I really have to take care of my heart. February is Heart Month and it reminds me and every one to take care of our heart. It is the fountain of life.

(This article was previously published)

So when someone hurts you ...

But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men. (Luke 6:35) "Forget it, I don't want to talk to you anymore!" The text came through abruptly, and Susan blinked as she reread it in disbelief. Had she really been this misunderstood by her friend? Her heart began to beat faster at her ability to conjure up these feelings in another human. On the other hand, Susan was relieved.

Was she really finally free of such a difficult relationship?

Today's verse reminds us that in many cases, even though we want to cut ourselves off from a world that doesn't understand us, Jesus tells us that we should love, even - especially - those who are ungrateful and evil. We are made in God's image after all, and He is the very definition of kindness.

So regardless of anyone else's belief system or personality or stereotyping, you, as an image bearer of God, are meant to love.

Danny Hernaez

From Whom All Blessings Flow So when someone hurts you, instead of withdrawing, take a step back momentarily, allowing everyone some time to breathe. You can show love even if you don't see eye to eye. Don't offer something that will harm you or the other person by spoiling or indulging sin, but instead, show love. In doing so, you will remind the other person that you not only value who they are, you also recognize your own worth and dignity.

Then, ask God for help in showing this person that He has something better for both of you: a reward, as it says in Luke, that will be great!

Dear Lord, thank You for making me in Your image. I know You have

equipped me to love others, even when I am so tempted to strike back at them. Show me when to set boundaries, and when to receive people with open arms. I want to bless others with Your Light. I trust You with all my relationships, even the hard ones. Help me to be bear Your image in all that I do. Amen.

The disciples thought they suffered their greatest defeat when Jesus died on the cross. However, this defeat became the greatest victory on earth. Christ's death gave liberty. Forgiveness came to all men. New life came forth - new strength for the disciples.

Resurrection and new life came as a result of a "defeat." <(((><

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Greetings in the Lord!

In the past Sundays we have reflected on significant elements in the life of the disciples of Jesus.

Foremost in these elements were the call of Jesus that was responded immediately by his first disciples, who listened to him and came to know him, eventually leaving everything they had to radically change themselves in following him. Last Sunday’s gospel from Mark made us aware that this Master, whom the first disciples followed, taught with authority, “what is this A new teaching with authority?” (Mark 1, 27) This made the disciples recognize the intrinsic connection between Jesus’ teaching and his power to dispel evil. His teaching is new not only because it never has been heard before, but because it had power to accomplish what it communicates.

The gospel from Mark this Sunday concretizes more clearly this power with the episode of Jesus healing the mother in law of Peter.

In today’s gospel reading we can have a brief glimpse of how Jesus spent is day. These activities may be summarized in these: teaching, healing and praying. We mentioned that Jesus taught with authority in the past week, now we see how he healed, which often involved in his physical contact with the patient, a personal and consoling touch.

Mark describes it very clearly when he mentioned that “he grasped

Fr. Agustin T. Opalalic her hand and helped her up.”

Biblical exegetes explain that the woman’s recovery from illness is a foreshadowing of the resurrection on the last day. Furthermore the immediate reaction of the healed woman is a “model of discipleship: she waited on them.” This action of the healed mother-in-law of Peter is the basis for the service ministry of the deacons. It is the ministry that Jesus prescribes when he said that he came “not to be served but to serve.” (Mark 10:45) The right response to the healing experience from Jesus is to “spend oneself in the service to him and his disciples, that is, to the Church.

The third activity that Jesus portrayed in this narrative of Mark was his time and act of prayer.

“Rising very early in the morning, he left and went off to a deserted place where he prayed.” Notice that the first activity in the day of Jesus was to rise early in order to

pray. Despite his manifestation of authority in his teaching ministry, Jesus sought the guidance from his Father in prayer. He chose a place where he could spend time by himself in order to communicate intimately with his Father. The place was a desert, a place of solitude conducive to communicate with his Father in order to always do His and obey in his ministry.

These three activities of Jesus: teaching, healing and praying are all shared to each of us, his disciples, through the sacraments of baptism and confirmation. The ordained ministers are given a heavier responsibility to exercise these ministries, not only as participation in it, but a commitment to exercise with fidelity and devotion. All of us, both lay and ordained, can only teach with conviction, if we know our faith; we can heal others by asking the Lord to make use us in order to heal those who are physically and spiritually in need of healing.

Prayer should be regular in our daily activity that should help us always to communicate with God Himself so that we can be certain that we do would always be in conformity with his Divine Will. Like Jesus, let us look for the proper place and time for prayer in our daily activities.

The time and place of prayer matter a lot in disposing us to speak with the God and listen to His directions for us to follow.

Ang PERA Sa Buhay Natin Ni Salvador S. Idos

Ano nga ba ang papel na dapat gampanan ng pera sa buhay natin?

Maraming bagay na kapag may pera ay maaring bilhin, Subalit kailangan din namang malaman at tanggapin, Mga bagay na kahit may pera ay di mapapasaatin.

Malaking BAHAY ay maaring bilhin o itayo, Isang tirahan na yari sa kahoy at semento, Subalit ang di mabibili ay isang TAHANAN, Na kung saan ang mga naninirahan ay nagmamahalan.

Kung may pera ay maaring makaranas ng ALIW na pansamantala, Aliw na mararanasan sa mga palabas, salu-salo at sa pagalagala, Ang di mabibili ng pera ay ang pangmatagalang KALIGAYAHAN, Na kung maayos ang buhay at saka lang makakamtan.

Maaring bilhin ang mga masasarap na PAGKAIN, Lechon, Releyno, Afritada, Tinola o anumang inumin, Ngunit aanhin ang lahat na ito na nasa harap ay inihain, Kung wala namang GANANG KUMAIN at ito ay hindi maaring bilhin.

Maaring bumili ng isang malambot at malaking KAMA, Na ang gumagamit ay laging aburido at may kaba, Sa kabilang dako, ang hindi mabibili ng pera, Ay ang HIMBING NG TULOG na dulot ng malinis na konsiyensiya.

Maaring gamitin ang pera upang mag-aral, Makamit ang malawak na KAALAMAN, Ngunit ang hindi mabibili ng pera ay ang KARUNUNGAN, Na kailangan natin upang tahakin ang tuwid na daan.

Sa panahon ng halalan ay maaring bumili ng BOTO, Upang makamtan ang hangad na magkapuesto, Ngunit ang hindi mabibili ng pera ay ang RESPETO, Na nilalaan sa mga taong may dangal at prinsipyo.

ang mamahala sa buhay natin o, Tayo ang mamahala kung saan dapat gamitin ang pera, Sino nga ba ang dapat mamahala, tayo o ang pera?

Ang pera ay isang biyayang dulot sa atin, Ipamahagi at ang pagmamahal ay mararanasan din, Di ba ang pera ay dapat magdulot ng ginhawa at ligaya, At di sa buhay natin ang dulot ay gulo, lungkot at pagdurusa.

Kapag oras na ay oras na nga upang mamahinga, Limpak limpak na salapi di makakabili ni isang bugtong na hininga, Perang kipkip na sa buong buhay ay pinagipunan, Ni kusing ay walang madadala sa huling hantungan.

Ang pera ay hindi ang pinagmumulan ng kasamaan, Mahalaga ang pera kapag ito ay ginamit sa mabuting paraan, Ang pagmamahal sa pera ang siyang ugat ng kasamaan, Dahilan kung bakit kahit mga magkakapatid ay nagkakaroon ng alitan.

Dalawang bagay lamang ang maaring manyari, Pabayaang ang pera

Salvador S. Idos

In Immigration Debate, a ‘Fight Over Who Gets to be an American’ As more people cross the border, anti-immigrant stances are inflaming U.S. politics, with few long-term proposals more comprehensive than closing the border.

At a Friday, January 26 EMS briefing, immigration experts discussed the political consequences of these proposals in light of the current anti-immigrant electoral cycle, longterm problems with an increasingly politicized asylum system and local responses to high numbers of migrants.

Washington and the border The ongoing bipartisan Senate debate around restricting immigration along the country’s Mexican border — particularly around parole, which allows migrants to live and work in the U.S. temporarily without visas — is happening in the context of debates around a bill to fund aid for Israel, Taiwan and particularly Ukraine, said Angela Kelley, chief advisor of Policy and Partnerships for the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and the American Immigration Council (AIC).

Given that supporting Ukraine

“to effectively push back on Putin’s intentions” is a Democrat priority, many Republicans echoing former President Trump — like House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson — are threatening to regard the Senate’s compromise as “dead on arrival” and withhold Ukraine aid if Democrats oppose certain immigration limitations, she continued.

Angela Kelley, Chief Advisor, Policy and Partnerships for the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and the American Immigration Council (AIC), explains the changes in migration patterns to the U.S. and how they are contributing to the crisis at the border.

The most significant limitation regards the authority of parole, which President Biden has used for generally two-year increments “to bring in people including Afghans, Ukrainians, Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans for humanitarian reasons,” and which many other migrants at the border get through the U.S. Customs app CBP One “as a legal pathway, as opposed to using a

smuggler,” Kelley said.

Another limitation regards the negotiation of a “trigger” to close the border to migrants seeking asylum if there are more than a certain maximum — especially relevant given that President Biden, in an attempt to salvage the ongoing Congress deal, said he’d “shut down the border” if given the ability.

“30 years ago, if the Border Patrol had encountered 4,000 people, that would have been a five alarm fire. Now we’re seeing 10,000 or 11,000 per day … because smuggling networks have increased and more people — 52% of migrants — are coming from other parts of the world beyond Mexico or Central America,” she added. “Our policies are grossly inadequate to handle these numbers.”

A ‘perfect storm’ “Democrats are not comfortable with immigration as a complex policy issue,” Kelly said. “Meanwhile, Republicans have a simpler soundbite — ‘Biden’s borders are out of control, See IMMIGRATION on 9

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Binabati ng Pechanga Resort Casino ang Lahat Ng Isang Masaganang 2024 sa Taon ng Dragon na may $200,000 EasyPlay at Cash na mga Bunutan at Pagdiriwang Habang papalapit na ang Taon ng Dragon, binabati ng Pechanga Resort Casino ang lahat at upang sumali sa pagdiriwang ng mga kasiyahan na may mga serye ng mga promosyon at ipamimigay sa Pebrero 2024.

Lunar New Year $200,000 sa EasyPlay at Cash na Bunutan Ang Pechanga Resort Casino ay nagdiriwang ng Lunar New Year sa pagpapamigay ng $200,000 sa EasyPlay at cash na mga papremyo sa Biyernes, Pebrero 2, 9, 16 at 23.

Ang mga miyembro ng Pechanga Club ay magkakamit ng ibat’t ibang mga halaga ng entrada sa bunutan sa paglalaro ng slots o table games mula 2pm - 10pm kada araw para sa pagkakataong manalo ng malaki.

Animnapu ang mga mananalo sa bunutan upang tumanggap ng $250, $500, o $750 sa EasyPlay sa ganap na 10pm. Isang maswerteng mananalo ang bubunutin para sa ultimong cash na premyo na $25,000.

Halina at tuklasin ang nakakakilig sa pagkakataong manalo ng naraming beses. $5,000 Lucky Red Envelope na Ipamimigay Hinahayaan ng Pechanga ang mga manlalaro na maging mas massette sa kanilang promosyon na “Lucky red Envelope” ngayong Lunar New Year kung saan ang mga miyembro ay madaliang makaka bisita sa Lugar ngg Promosyon kada Martes ng Perrero mula 12pm-10pm sa pagkakataong manalo ng hanggang $5,000 sa EasyPlay!

Lunar New Year na Swerteng Lion Dance Sa pagdiriwang ng Lunar New Year, ang Pechanga Resort Casino ay magtatanghal ng isang kahangahangang Lukcy Lion Dancer na Pagtatanghal sa Sabado, Pebrero 10 (i.e. ang unang araw ng Lunar New Year). Simula alas-3pm, ang Lion Dance Team, na nagsisimbulo ng kapelaan at maandag sierde, ay mag uumpisa ng kanilang pagtatanghal sa hilagang pasukan sa Pechanga at pasayaw na papunta ang mga ito sa casino hanggang sa mga palapag ng casino. Ang mga bisita ay makakatanggap ng Red Packets upang mabigyan ang mga Lione Dancers ng panahong magdasal para sa Magandang Bagong Taon.

Eksklusibong mga Espesyal sa Kainan Ang Pechanga Resort Casino ay bumabati rin sa mga bisita upang magreserba ng mga lamesa para Pampamilyang Gabihan o Pangnegosyong Tanghalian upang eksklusibong maaliw sa mga Espesyal na Kainan sa Lucky New Year na maingat na inihanda ng mga punong tagapagluto sa Bamboo, Blazing Noodles at Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar. Si Chef Marie Surakul sa Bamboo ay naghahain ng Steam Whole Fish ($108, Long Life Noodle ($48), Hidden Teaser (shrimp at seafood egg roll) ($28), Green Jewel (bok choy at stir fried shiitake mushrooms) ($28), at Seven Sea Fried Rice (king crab meat, scalloped, shrimp, green onions, eggs, X. O. sauce) ($78). Lahat ng mga putaheng ito ay magpapasaya sa inyong panlasa.

Ang Blazing Noodles, na matatagpuan sa lobby ng hotel sa Pechanga, ay magluluto ng anim na tradisyunal na mga Asianong espesyal para sa okasyon. Kabilang dito ang Angus Tenderloin Fried Rice ($38), Duck Lettuce Wrap ($24), Fried Chicken Galantine ($24), Wok Fried Lobster ($128), Pan Fried Sea Bass ($56), at Braised Veggies ($28).

Ang Umi ay nag-aalok sa mga bisita ng casino ng napakalawak na magkakaibang putaheng pagkain na may magkakahalong mapag-anyaya sa panlasa, kabilang ang 5 Spice Duck Yakitori ($26), Tempura Bass na may kasamang gyoza sauce at pickled cucumbers ($38), Lobster Fried Rice na may pickled radishes, fried shallots at shiso ($68) at Yakisoba kasama ang A5 wagyu, cabbage at fried ginger ($66). Lahat ng mga pagkain ay may kahalong mga elemento na magpapahiwatig ng kasaganaan at kaligayahan.

Ang mga espesyal na ihinatag na pagkain sa Blazing Noodels, Bamboo at Umi ay makukuha mula Peb. 3 hanggang Peb. 18. Inirerekomenda ang mga reserbasyon sa Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar at magagawa ito sa pagbisita sa www.Pechanga.com/eat o sa pagtawag sa (951) 770-8504.

Palamuti ng ari-arian sa Lunar New Year Ang Lunar New Year ay isang simbolo ng bagong panimula sa

bagong taon, bagong pag-uumpisa.

Sa pagdiriwang ng Taon ng Dragon at upang palakasin ang kasiyahang pagdiriwang sa kapaligiran, simula sa Enero 2024, ang Pechanga ay magpapalamuti ng buong kapaligiran na may tradisyunal na mga elemento sa bagong taon at mga disenyo sa Taon ng Dragon, na gumagamit ng naparami at kakaibang maliliwanag na mga pulang parol, pinong mga oriental na isitilo na garden bridge, napakagandang bagong bukang mga peach blossoms, at marami pang iba. Sa kabuuang palapag kayo ay makakakita ng hindi mabilang na mga lugar at oportunidad mag kuhanan para sa inyong ‘selfies’ o pampamilyang litrato, habang kinukunan din ang nakamamanghang mga display na mga dekorasyon sa Lunar New Year.

Sa karagdagang mga impormasyon sa mga kaganap at promosyon sa Pechanga, mangyaring tumawag sa (877) 711-2946 o bumisita sa aming website sa Pechnga.com.

Kinakailangang hindi bababa sa 21 taong gulang upang lumahok sa mga promosyon.

Patungkol sa Pechanga Resort Casino Ang Pechanga Resort Casino ay nag-aalay ng pinaka malaki at napakalawak na resort/casino na eksperiyensa saan man sa Estados Unidos. Ibinotong pinakamahusay na casino ng USA Today at may rata na Four Diamond property ng AAA mula 2002, ang Pechanga Resort Casino ay naghahatid ng walang kapantay na libangan, maging anumang araw o sa kahabaan ng pananatili rito. Ang Pechanga ay nag-aalay ng mahigit 5,500 ng pinakamainit na slots, 152 table games, worldclass na paraan ng aliwan, 1,100 na mga kwarto sa hotel, kainan, spa at golf sa Journey sa Pechanga. Ang Pechanga Resort Casino ay nagaalok ng mga destinasyon na tutugon at hihigit pa sa mga pangangailangan ng mga panauhin at komunidad. Ang Pechanga Resort Casino ay pagaari at nasa ilalim ng pamamalakad ng Pechanga Band of Indians. Sa karagdagang impormasyon, tumawag toll free sa (877) 711-2946 o bumisita sa www.Pechanga.com. Sundan ang Pechanga Resort Casino sa Instagram, Facebook at sa X @PechangaCasino.

Celebrate Lunar New Year at SeaWorld San Diego on February 10 and 11 with Cultural Performances and Culinary Delights Event includes Taiko drummers and cultural dancers, delicious Asianinspired food and drink offerings, and more

SAN DIEGO, CAGuests are invited to celebrate Lunar New Year at SeaWorld San Diego on February 10 and 11 as the sights, sounds and aromas of Asia come alive during a one-of-a-kind festival that’s fit for the whole family. Cultural entertainment, authentic food & beverage options, and festive décor will take over Wild Arctic Plaza for this special cultural celebration included with park admission.

SeaWorld San Diego, is located at 500 SeaWorld Dr. The Lunar New Year festival is slated for Saturday, February 10 and Sunday, February 11, 2024.

The Lunar New Year Festival Stage will feature cultural performances from the local community, including Taiko drumming, lion dancers, and cultural dance shows. Families will be awed by these high-energy performances by local community groups. Lucky red envelopes will also be handed out, each containing a special surprise, chocolate coin, or saying to symbolize good wishes and luck for the year ahead. Visit seaworld.com/san-diego/ park-info/theme-park-hours for the daily schedule.

Delicious, Asian-inspired food and beverage options will also be available in the area to celebrate. Guests can enjoy chicken and veggie fried rice, chow mein, veggie pot stickers, beef bulgolgi, mango mochi, and more!

Drink options will include Lucky Dragon Punch with lychee popping boba, Shiso Highball, and a Fortune Fizz cocktail.

With new offerings introduced for 2024, SeaWorld San Diego has the best benefits ever for 2024 Annual Pass Members. For as low as $13.25 a month, with NO DOWN PAYMENT, guests

can enjoy up to $2,365 worth of special benefits, including unlimited yearround admission for amazing animal experiences, thrilling attractions, and incredible seasonal events. Members receive 12 months of visits with the best benefits ever, including FREE parking, up to six free guest tickets, and special savings on merchandise, Quick Queue, and more. Pass Members are first for everything, first to ride any new attraction, first to view new animal exhibits, and first to know about major park announcements. In 2024, Pass Members will be the first to view SeaWorld’s newest exhibit, Jewels of the Sea, A Jellyfish Experience, the immersive and interactive aquarium.

For more information on SeaWorld and to purchase Annual Passes and Fun Cards visit SeaWorldSanDiego.com.

ABOUT SEAWORLD: SeaWorld is a leading marine life theme park and accredited zoo and aquarium that provides experiences that matter while educating and inspiring guests of all ages to care about marine life. Welcoming millions of guests every year, the parks offer fun and enriching experiences from up-close animal

encounters and year-round educational programs to award-winning marine-life themed rides and attractions, special events and exciting entertainment.

For more than 60 years SeaWorld has advanced the conservation of marine life in and outside its parks through science, education, and exceptional animal care that is Humane Certified by American Humane and accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. SeaWorld is one of the largest marine animal rescue organizations in the world, helping more than 40,000 animals to date. The SeaWorld Conservation Fund, a nonprofit foundation established in 2003, has provided more than $20 million to nearly 1,400 organizations to advance critical research on every continent.

A portion of park proceeds goes toward supporting these longstanding conservation commitments. SeaWorld parks are in Orlando, San Antonio, San Diego and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). SeaWorld is part of the SeaWorld Entertainment (NYSE:SEAS) portfolio of theme park brands. For more information, visit us at SeaWorld.com.

IMMIGRATION

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everybody’s coming in.’ A better balance of compassion and control requires changes to our asylum system … and that requires us putting people in Congress who won’t use this issue as a political football.”

This week, the House Republican response to unprecedented migration takes the form of a markup hearing to discuss impeachment articles against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on the grounds that he defied Federal immigration laws by allowing millions to enter the U.S. illegally. A formal vote against him — which could come as soon as next week — would make him the second U.S. Cabinet official to be impeached in history, and the first in 150 years.

In this electoral year, immigration is more political than ever in a “perfect storm” intensified by unprecedented migration from destabilized governments and economies abroad, and by 30 years of largely GOPblocked attempts to update the U.S. immigration system, said Vanessa Cardenas, executive director of Washington, D.C.-based immigrant rights nonprofit America’s Voice.

Vanessa Cardenas, Executive Director of America’s Voice, a Washington DC-based non-profit advocating for immigrant rights, notes that America has the resources to support immigration – and solve many of our other problems – but fails to do so.

“We saw in 2016 and 2020 what we’re seeing again, when Trump told Speaker Johnson to make no deal with the Senate: immigration is the GOP’s silver bullet. They’re not interested in solutions, but using it to anger and mobilize their base … Of course, Americans are worried about the border, but when presented with actual policies, most embrace America as a nation of immigrants,” she continued.

Most Americans, for example, support DACA, while three out of four say undocumented immigrants should be able to stay in the U.S. legally if certain requirements are met.

“When the Trump administration, on the other hand, passed policies that did not fix the problem — like the Muslim ban, separating families at the border and rhetoric around mass incarceration — Americans broadly rejected it,” Cardenas said. “They want a compassionate legal system … but in the absence of reform, the other side fills the void with narratives of invasion … This goes beyond immigration.

This is a debate about who gets to be an American.”

While lack of resources to adequately support all migrants “is a fundamental issue in our country,” she added, “those who are crying foul against immigrants should then be fighting for housing, health care and labor rights. Immigrants improve our economies and vitalize our communities … Rather than using migration to pit Americans against each other, we should empower them to be part of the solution.”

Meeting migrants on the ground Although the numbers have been unprecedented, migrants themselves are nothing new in a major city so close to the border as LA, said Lupita Martinez, regional policy manager for the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA).

Since the COVID-response asylum restriction Title 42 was lifted last May, “we’ve been receiving buses on an over 20-hour-long ride from Texas,” she said.

Lupita Martinez, Southern Region Policy Manager at CHIRLA, the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles, talks about her experience working with new arrivals to the U.S. and how their stories impacted her advocacy and perspective on immigration.

Only 3% of arrivals to LA stay there, however; top cities for asylum seekers with sponsors include San

Diego, San Francisco and San Jose.

“We’re now at bus 39, and have been collaborating with the city, county and aid organizations through LA Welcomes Collective to receive new arrivals with care” including medical attention, translation services, basic needs like food, water and hygiene supplies, and — for those staying in LA — city orientation, housing and benefits case management, school enrollment and mental health support.

“When we talk about immigration, we talk about numbers, but on the ground they’re more than that,” said Martinez. “I remember meeting a mother and two children less than five years old, whose father had drowned in the river on the way with them. How can you say — no, we’re not going to help you, when you know you can?”

“We can’t talk about the numbers behind immigration as a policy issue without also talking about the violence and poverty behind it,” she added.

“When you’re facing it on the ground, the issue turns into one around what it means to integrate someone new, how you can help them contribute to your community.”

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Contributing writers joe garbanzos Adam Behar ALICIA deleon-torres Fr. Agustin T. Opalalic Cartoonist jesse t. reyes Community Outreach Rose San Pedro Lorna Delos Santos Christina Rutter

Columnists AURORA S. CUDAL Danny hernaez francine maigue GREG B. MACABENTA JESSE T. REYES al villamora Photographer Zeny PLY Circulation Rudy Avenido

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