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Pres. Marcos extends PUV consolidation until April 30, 2024

MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has extended the consolidation deadline for public utility vehicles until April 30, Malacañang announced Wednesday.

Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said Marcos extended the deadline upon the recommendation of Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista.

“President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved Transport Secretary Jaime J. Bautista's recommendation, granting an additional three months until April 30, 2024 for the consolidation of public utility vehicles,” Garafil said in a statement.

“This extension is to give an opportunity to those who expressed intention to consolidate but did not make the previous cut-off,” she added.

Last month, Marcos rejected calls to extend the Dec. 31 deadline for the consolidation of PUV operators and drivers.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board reported that 145,721 units 0r 76 percent of PUVs and utility vehicle (UV) express have consolidated.

PUVs that failed to consolidate under cooperatives on Dec. 31, 2023 and those plying routes with no cooperatives can operate until Jan. 31 only.

Unconsolidated jeepneys in routes with at least 60 percent of units that consolidated would no longer be able to renew their provisional authorities

DEADLINE EXTENDED. Traditional jeepneys ply Agoncillo Street corner Pedro Gil in Manila on Thursday (Jan. 25, 2024). The government has extended the deadline for the consolidation of jeepneys and UV Express units until April 30, 2024 under the public utility vehicle modernization program. (MNS photo) to operate.

Under the government's PUV Modernization Program, operators and drivers will be organized into

cooperatives or corporations to ensure the efficiency of its operations with an upgraded fleet of low-carbon emission, safe and efficient PUV

What’s Ahead for the U.S. Economy in 2024?

Executive “is not blind nor deaf to the sentiments and concerns of the people.”

He said the President recognizes

See MARCOS on 3

The Extraordinary Demetrio A. Bogtong WW2 Veteran; US Congressional Medal Awardee

By Selen Ozturk/EMS Although inflation and unemployment rates are falling, many Americans are struggling to stay afloat with record-high costs of living.

At a Friday, January 19 Ethnic Media Services briefing, experts across the financial spectrum — from housing to oil to small business — discussed how our current economy is impacting some of its most vulnerable members, and suggested what’s ahead for 2024.

The struggle for housing Even in the wealthiest regions of the Bay Area like Silicon Valley — the fifth-largest economy in the world — the struggle to find housing is communitywide, said Nathan Ganeshan, founder of homeless aid nonprofit Community Seva.

Though California has 12% of the U.S. population, it has 28% of its homeless population.

Since 2013, Community Seva has helped about 320,000 of these individuals “by serving hot meals, blankets, sleeping bags, grocery gift cards, hygiene products, temporary housing, advocacy and more,” Ganeshan said. “We shouldn’t forget how entwined the struggle for basic needs like food and hygiene is with the struggle to find housing. However much the economy is improving, it’s riskier for those on the edge if the cost of basic needs is also rising.”

In Santa Clara County alone, where 10,000 people are homeless, over a quarter of all people are foodinsecure — and these risks extend well beyond those who are unhoused.

Even among those in the highpaying tech world, precarity looms in Santa Clara, the state’s third-most expensive housing market.

“With the ongoing tech layoffs,

units.

Speaker Martin Romualdez welcomed President Marcos’ decision, stressing that the Chief

the issue's impact on the local transportation sector and that it comes at a crucial time when the community navigates challenges in the transport industry.

The decision of the President came after Romualdez and other House leaders met leaders of transport groups and transport officials led

by LTFRB Board Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III. “Nadinig kaagad ‘yung ating hinaing po, kaya may extension tayo kaagad (Our concerns were immediately heard, that’s why we have an immediate extension),” Romualdez told the media.

“The jeepney has long been a symbol of our nation's vibrant culture and enduring spirit. At ipe-preserve natin ‘yan (We will preserve it)," Romualdez told some 100 jeepneys drivers during a dialogue at the House of Representatives.

The House Committee on Transportation has adopted a resolution urging President Marcos to reconsider the lapsed Dec. 31 consolidation deadline.

During its motu proprio hearing Wednesday, the panel approved the resolution calling for an extension of the consolidation period until the government can "come up with a concrete plan to address the major issues" in the program’s implementation.

By Joe Garbanzos

we’ve seen firsthand a severe impact of housing, as parking lots in Santa Clara are filling more and more with people living in cars and RVs,” added Ganeshan. “Someone recently said to me ‘I lost my job, but I can always find another one. But I lost my house, and I can’t get another here.’”

The housing market Home prices have drastically outpaced income nationwide because “the pandemic brought drastic changes to supply and demand,” said Rob Warnock, Senior Research Associate at Apartment List.

“Many people took their homes off the market while many others decided to buy — and skyrocketing prices didn’t slow until the middle of 2022, when the Federal Reserve started to raise interest rates — but homes are still 45% more expensive now than they were before the pandemic.”

In contrast, he continued, “Rents fell during the pandemic because there were many more vacant apartments for rent than houses for sale.”

As the economy emerged from

the pandemic in 2021, rising rents worsened an affordability crisis which peaked in 2022, when over half of all U.S. renters were cost burdened, i.e. spending over 30% of their income on rent.

Since then, rents have declined 4% as the U.S. has begun a massive construction boom, explained Warnock. Last year nearly 500,000 new apartments entered the market, “with about a million more in the next year or two.”

What’s next for 2024?

“Home sale prices should continue to rise,” he said. “The Federal Reserve said they won’t raise interest rates further, and for more homes on the market, there will also be more interested buyers. However, we expect new rentals to grow strong for the next 12 to 24 months, with new apartments curbing rent costs …

It’s a lesson we can all learn from: if you want affordable housing, build more of it.”

Oil and gas Oil prices, too, are stabilizing from pandemic peaks, said Denton See ECONOMY on 9

SAN DIEGO, CA -- The US Congressional Gold Medal (CGM), the highest civilian award bestowed by the US Congress, was awarded to a 99 year-old Navy veteran, Demetrio Arias Bogtong at the Midway Museum on Saturday, Jan. 20th. The CGM is awarded in recognition of veteran Bogtong’s WW2 service as an enlisted sailor in the Philippines.

Navy sailor Bogtong received the US Congressional Gold Medal attended by his 6 children, 9 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and about 60 other extended family members and friends. The ceremony was staged by the Filipino Veterans Recognition Education Project (FilVetREP) in collaboration with the Bogtong family. FilVetREP is a non-profit organization advocating for veterans and their families.

The 109th CGM Ceremony The first CGM ceremony was first held at the rotunda of the US Congress in Washington DC in 2017. The ceremony at the Midway Museum hangar last Saturday was the 109th CGM ceremony.

Capt. Dan Gruta and Chaplain Don Biadog, retired US Navy officers, presented the US Congressional Gold Medal and the Public Law Announcement (making official the Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015 awarding a CGM collectively to the Filipino Veterans of WW2 , in recognition of their outstanding wartime achievements and honorable service to the United States during WW2) The medal was presented to a wheelchair-bound Demetrio Bogtong with his family and friends,

(Photo: L-R: Don, Larry, Irene, Virginia Bogtong; Veteran D.A. Bogtong; Capt. Dan Gruta; Chaplain Don Biadog). many with tears of joy, cheering on a constantly beaming 99 year-old veteran. The US and Philippines flags were on display at the event’s center stage.

A moving video of the original CGM event at the US Congress in 2017 was shown at the Midway Museum. Also shown was the Duty to County Program video. Duty to Country is an educational program about the untold story of WW2 Filipino Veterans.

The Duty to Country is a wellresearched and professionally developed curriculum available online at no charge to educators teaching US history at all levels.

For more about the program, visit https://dutytocountry.org/ Veteran Bogtong was alert and upbeat throughout the ceremony.

He briefly spoke. He expressed appreciation and thanks. He softly

reflected on his war experience in the Philippines and announced an invitation to his 100th birthday on June 21st.

Virginia Bogtong, daughter of Demetrio, said it best… “the Congressional Gold Medal ceremony in honor of my dad was very special to him and family. The presentation of the Congressional Gold Medal is trust and he can now proudly believe that all his hard work in his entire career has paid off. The big smile on the stage is a testimony. The ceremony on the USS MIDWAY was a grand event and everybody was happy to witness the once in a lifetime award.

From our hearts, HUGE THANK YOU FILVETREP!” An Extraordinary Life Veteran Demetrio was born on See BOGTONG on

7

2 • January 26, 2024 - February 1, 2024

Filipino Press

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Think you believe in true empowerment?

By FRANCINE maigue

Have you had the difficult conversations at work, at home, at school that make sure that voices of women and children are heard, racism is curtailed and bias/habit/ judgment are withheld in order to see people as real equals.

If you don't pay attention to the greater world around you, you're part of the problem.

If you talk over women, you're part of the problem.

If you don't pursue your dreams with unrelenting passion, you're part of the problem.

If you hoard resources/credit/ opportunities, you're part of the problem.

If you see and hear pain and say nothing, you're part of the problem.

If you can't find joy in the success of others, you're part of the problem.

If you subscribe to the idea of class systems, you're part of the problem.

If you look down on accents and refuse to use/learn native languages, you're part of the problem.

If you only hold beauty ideals born from colonization, you're part of the problem.

If your jokes seek to make people feel small or perpetuate stereotypes, you're part of the problem.

If you seek glory in service, power in leadership, you're part of the problem.

None of us are perfect. But none of us can afford to rest in the fight to ensure true equality.

We must speak up. We must ask why. We must rise.

Everyday, we must march.

My friends, we’ve been working towards our best year yet and trying out new habits to help us be the most healthy, satisfied, productive and successful versions of ourselves possible. Here are some tips to help support your 2021 journey. #kayanatinto Protect Your Energy When you have a vision for your day and you know how you want to approach it (e.g. with strength, peace, enthusiasm, optimism, focus), you become very aware of the many sources of adversity your spirit has to overcome.

You may have to set boundaries of time and space. You may have to extinguish moments of conflict with a sense of

diplomacy or honest and matter-offactness that others will have to accept when they’re seeking a battle. Set out to leave the day with the same energy with which you began it. Make sure to get enough rest, so you awake rejuvenated and ready for the next day. Hold firm to your goals, and protect your energy.

Manage Your Time Folks may not be aware of your balancing act of activities, responsibilities, appointments and deadlines. Communicate that your time is limited as necessary. Allow yourself enough time to complete tasks, whether they are a school/work project, household chore, self-care regimen or travel time. Alleviate unnecessary stress by cramming in too much in a limited time frame. Set yourself up for success.

Hold Others Accountable As much as possible, don’t compensate when others don’t do their fair share. Make sure expectations are clear and shared responsibilities and goals are understood. Don’t pretend doing it all on your own is ok.

Express needs and limited bandwidth in real-time. Check for withheld and/ misdirected stress caused by team or household members dropping the ball and not contributing as needed and expected. Communicate the domino effects associated with lack of follow through/commitment, and express how valuable someone and their contributions are to the team and shared success.

You got this.

We got this. #kayanatinto Love, Francine

The Maigue and Bendorf Families during one of their previous family get togethers. We are requesting for community prayers for our very own Francine (9th, l-r), who passed on and continued healing for her family and loved ones. Dedicated and loving of her family, friends and community, we continue to re-print Francine's article/s which was earlier published, yet remains relevant to the times, filled with valuable insights/ life lessons.

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.

DEPOSÍTELA.

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MARCOS

Continued from p­­­­­age

1

"While the intention of the PUVMP is beyond question and considering that the modernization of public transportation is long overdue, the needed reforms must be done in accordance with law and due process to ensure the protection of the affected stakeholders and the riding public in general," the resolution read.

DOTr: No more extension of PUV consolidation after April 30 The Department of Transportation (DOTr) will no longer recommend an extension of the application for consolidation of individual public utility vehicle (PUV) operators to form transportation cooperatives or corporations once the new deadline on April 30, 2024 expires.

"I think three months is more than enough time for them to consolidate… what we are really after is those who are willing to consolidate," Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said Thursday at a press briefing.

"After April 30, we will no longer recommend an extension. This is already the eighth extension," the Transportation chief said.

On Wednesday, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. approved Bautista's recommendation to extend the deadline to join or put up transportation cooperatives or corporations until April 30, 2024.

According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the extension would "give an opportunity to those who expressed intention to consolidate but did not make the previous cutoff."

-The previous deadline to apply for consolidation was on Dec. 31, 2023.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) gave unconsolidated individual operators in routes without a consolidated transport service entity to operate until Jan. 31, after which they would be considered "colorum" and would be apprehended.

During the briefing, Bautista said the DOTr was supposed to issue a statement saying that at a 76% nationwide consolidation rate, the government would still push through with implementing the PUV Modernization Program.

Filipino Press "With 76% [consolidation] is more than enough to implement the program," the DOTr chief said.

After the extended deadline expires, Bautista expects the consolidation rate to increase to 85%.

"At 85%, I'm very sure this will be a very successful project," Bautista said.

LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III, for his part, said that the agency has been receiving several motions for reconsideration to allow late filing for consolidation.

"With this directive for an extension, we will act on these motions ASAP (as soon as possible)," Guadiz said.

Guadiz said apprehensions of unconsolidated PUV units, which were supposed to start on Feb. 1, will no longer happen as individual operators are allowed to operate following the deadline extension until

April 30.

Data from the LTFRB showed that a total of 1,767 routes across the country have no consolidated public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers and operators.

Bicol has the highest number of routes with no consolidated PUJs at 451, followed by Metro Manila with 320.

LTFRB National Capital Region Directo Zona Tamayo said the consolidation rate in Metro Manila currently stands at 52%.

"We are expecting the remaining 48% will heed to this extension and file for consolidation," Tamayo said.

The PUV Modernization Program aims to replace traditional jeepneys with vehicles that have at least a Euro 4-compliant engine to lessen pollution and replace units that were not deemed roadworthy under the standards of the Land Transportation

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Office (LTO).

The consolidation of individual PUV franchises into cooperatives or corporations is the initial stage of the modernization program. This aims to pass the burden of acquiring modernized units from operators to the transport entity.

Several transport groups have launched a series of protest marches against the program, saying they have lost their jeepney units after their vehicle registrations were transferred to transport cooperatives.

Transport groups have filed a petition before the Supreme Court seeking to stop the implementation of the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP). They are asking the high tribunal to nullify relevant issuances of the LTFRB and the DOTr, and to issue a temporary restraining order to prevent the government from enforcing the policies. (MNS)

January 26, 2024 - February 1, 2024 • 3

4 • January 26, 2024 - February 1, 2024

Filipino Press

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PH assures UNSR Khan of conducive environment for free expression MANILA -- The Philippine government has assured United Nations Special Rapporteur Irene Khan of its commitment to fostering an environment conducive to free expression, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) said Thursday.

"The government remains steadfast in its efforts to foster an environment where anyone can freely express their opinion without fear," PTFoMS executive director Undersecretary Paul Gutierrez said, as quoted by his office in a news release on Thursday.

Gutierrez made the assurance during the welcome dinner for Khan hosted by the PTFOMS, in collaboration with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), the Publishers Association of the Philippines (PAPI), and National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año at Barbara’s Restaurant in Intramuros, Manila on Tuesday night.

During the event, Gutierrez relayed to Khan the current administration’s strong resolve to protect and promote the Filipinos' right to freedom of expression.

The PTFoMs said the welcome dinner for Khan was attended by various government offices, agencies, and representatives of free media, including PAPI, Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication (AIJC), and National Press Club (NPC).

“UNSR Khan’s remarks focused on the complexity of freedom of opinion and expression, the importance of diverse information sources, and the value of multiple perspectives. She expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome and recalled her previous visit to the Philippines in 1981 with the UN Office of the High Commissioner on Refugees,” it said. “Khan commended the Philippines for its early adoption of the UN 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 protocol. She also discussed the role of freedom of opinion and expression in bridging the ideological divide between the USA and USSR during the Cold War which resulted in both opposing parties promoting civil and political rights as well as economic, social and cultural rights,” the PTFoMS added.

Officials from various agencies, including the Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Presidential Human Rights Committee (PHRC), and the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), also issued their respective statements during the event.

The PTFoMS said DOJ Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez discussed the government's role in upholding justice and freedom of opinion, while PHRC Director Tito Fajardo presented the country's human rights achievements and reports.

It added that DFA Assistant Secretary Maria Teresa Almojuela reaffirmed the country’s commitment to working with the

UN on freedom of expression issues while NTF-ELCAC Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. emphasized the need to focus on socio-economic development in areas affected by insurgency.

“The event also provided an opportunity for human rights defenders from multiple Civil Society Organizations, such as the Hands Off Our Children Movement, Inc. (HOOC) to interact with UNSR Khan. HOOC represents mothers of children allegedly taken by the New People's Army through their front organizations,” the PTFoMs said.

Khan visited the country to meet with various government agencies to assess the country's human rights mechanisms.

Prior to the welcome dinner, she met with officials from the National Privacy Commission (NPC), discussing the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and its role in safeguarding personal information while supporting freedom of opinion and expression.

On Wednesday, she also met with officials of the Supreme Court and the Department of Justice.

Khan is expected to provide recommendations to the UN on enhancing the country's human rights mechanisms after her 10day visit.

SC assures commitment to freedom of speech in meeting with UNSR Khan The Supreme Court, led

by Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, assured United Nations Special Rapporteur Irene Khan that the Judiciary remains committed to the universal principles of freedom of speech and expression.

‘The Philippine Judiciary is highly cognizant of the universal principles of freedom of speech and expression as enshrined in the Philippine Constitution and international laws, and the courts always seek to actively endeavor in striking a balance between such freedoms and the right of the state to protect itself,” Gesmundo told Khan during her courtesy visit to the Court on Wednesday.

Joining Gesmundo in welcoming Khan were Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen and Associate Justices Amy C. Lazaro-Javier, Henri Jean Paul B. Inting, Japar B. Dimaampao, Jose Midas P. Marquez, and Maria Filomena D. Singh.

The Justices discussed several matters which included the Supreme Court’s Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations -- the Court’s blueprint of action for judicial reform.

Leonen cited examples of recent Supreme Court decisions that tackled freedom of speech and expression.

These included St. Anthony v.

Comelec where the Court En Banc ruled that the poll body cannot remove or destroy privatelyowned campaign materials displayed on private property.

The Court also cited ABS-CBN v. Ampatuan, where the Court protected the right of the media to report on cases pending in courts.

Khan was also given a copy of

the Supreme Court’s rules on the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 and Related Laws, which Gesmundo said was promulgated by the Court “to ensure that our judges will handle properly and effectively, protecting the rights of people vis-à-vis prosecution against antiterrorism.”

Other issues discussed were Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation suits, strengthening the Shari’ah justice system, the steady increase in the number of female judges, the Rule on Facilitated Naturalization of Refugees and Stateless Persons, and the proposed creation of the Office of the Judiciary Marshals, among others.

Khan thanked the Supreme Court Justices for their time in what she described as “an inspirational meeting.”

She was accompanied by Thibaut Guillet, Human Rights Officer at the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights, and Presidential Task Force on Media Security Executive Director Undersecretary Paul Gutierrez.

DOJ, UN Rapporteur meeting focus on upholding fundamental rights The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Wednesday said the meeting with United Nations Special Rapporteur Irene Khan was a "successful conclusion of a comprehensive dialogue."

It said the dialogue which took place at the DOJ main office in Manila provided an opportunity for a robust exchange of views and ideas on the current state of freedom of expression and opinion in the Philippines.

The discussion also focused on the challenges and opportunities in upholding and safeguarding these fundamental rights, in line with international standards and best practices,” the DOJ said in a statement after a two-hour meeting with officials led by DOJ Undersecretary Raul Vasquez.

"It highlighted the policy reforms, programs, and developments that the DOJ has implemented to promote and protect freedom of expression and opinion in the Philippines.

Undersecretary Vasquez emphasized the government's commitment to upholding these rights while maintaining law and order in the country,” the DOJ said. Vasquez also said the meeting “strengthened our commitment to transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of justice and human rights. We remain dedicated to implementing meaningful reforms and upholding the highest standards in our judicial framework.”

The Philippine government has reiterated its commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships and engagements with international stakeholders, including the United Nations, to promote and protect human rights in the Philippines.

Khan is the third UN rapporteur invited by the Philippine government to assess the country.

Earlier in the day, Khan also met with officials of the Supreme Court. (MNS)

DEADLINE EXTENDED. Traditional jeepneys ply Agoncillo Street corner Pedro Gil in Manila on Thursday (Jan. 25, 2024). The government has extended the deadline for the consolidation of jeepneys and UV Express units until April 30, 2024 under the public utility vehicle modernization program. (MNS photo)

CAFFEINE FIX. A barista prepares a customer's order at an electric bike-mounted cafe near the Social Security System office in Quezon City on Monday (Jan. 22, 2024). As majority of Filipinos are coffee drinkers, data and analytics firm Fitch Solutions sees a per person consumption of 3.78 kilograms every year by 2025. (MNS photo)

Filipino fighter among 21 fallen IDF soldiers MANILA -- A Filipino soldier of the Israel Defense Forces was killed in a massive explosion in Gaza on Jan. 22, the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines said Wednesday.

Sergeant First Class (Reserves) Cydrick Garin, 23, was a combat sergeant in the 8208th battalion of the 261st brigade.

Garin was slain together with 20 other soldiers during an attack that caused a Gaza compound being prepared for demolition to collapse upon them.

They were tasked to destroy structures allowing Hamas to observe and fire on Israeli forces.

A report by Israel's Tazpit Press Service (TPS) said a Palestinian terror squad fired an anti-tank missile at the adjoining homes in the complex.

Consequently, the explosives being used by the Israeli forces to demolish the compound detonated and the two buildings collapsed.

The compound was located in the area of Al Moazi, about 600 meters from the Israeli border.

“As far as we know, at around 4 p.m., an RPG was fired by terrorists at a tank securing the forces, and simultaneously, an explosion occurred at two two-story buildings.

The buildings collapsed due to this explosion, while most of the forces were inside and near them,” said IDF spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, as quoted by the TPS. “Israel shares the profound grief of Sgt. Garin's family and the Filipino community. Our commitment is strong to support his loved ones during this challenging time. May his soul rest in peace,” the Israel Embassy here said.

The embassy is currently facilitating the travel of Garin's father to Israel.

Garin lived in Tel Aviv with his mother, Imelda Garin.

He was enlisted in the IDF and joined the Givati Brigade.

In April 2021, he received recognition from the Southern Command for being an outstanding soldier in the unit.

DMW assures assistance to detained OFW in Japan The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has assured assistance to an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who was arrested and detained in Japan.

DMW officer-in-charge Undersecretary Hans Leo Cacdac, in a statement on Thursday, said they have received a report from the DMW Migrant Workers Office (MWO)Tokyo on the arrest and detention of a male OFW in connection with the case of a Japanese couple found dead inside their home in Tokyo's Adachi Ward last week.

Cacdac said he immediately directed the MWO in Tokyo to visit and meet with the concerned OFW and assured him of government assistance.

Cacdac also directed the MWOTokyo to ascertain the OFW’s condition and determine any immediate needs he may require, the statement read.

The MWO-Tokyo was also instructed to ensure more than adequate legal assistance to the detained OFW. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) earlier confirmed that two Filipinos have been arrested in Japan after 55-year-old Norihiro Takahashi and his 52-year-old wife Kimie were found dead in their

residence.

According to Kyodo News, the couple’s bodies were found with multiple stab wounds and signs of struggle.

Shortly after the discovery of the bodies, Japanese authorities arrested Hazel Ann Baguisa Morales for allegedly abandoning the bodies of the couple.

DFA Deputy Assistant Secretary Bryan Lao said Japanese authorities investigated after the couple’s child reported them missing until their bodies were found covered with plastic.

Lao said that in the course of the investigation, authorities saw in the security footage the two Filipinos within the premises.

He, however, said it has not been confirmed whether the two accused know each other.

Morales already has a courtappointed counsel who denied all allegations against her.

The DMW is now in close coordination with the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo.

“As we condole with the families of the deceased Japanese couple, we assure our kababayan and his family of our utmost assistance in close coordination with Ambassador Milen Garcia and the PHL Embassy in Tokyo,” Cacdac said.

The DMW said they will issue further information on the matter as necessary. (MNS) DA helps farmers sell 160 tons of highland vegetables in January Over 160 tons of highland vegetables had been sold and will be sold this month through Kadiwa’s Veggie Connect and other market linkage programs, preventing food wastage, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said Wednesday.

“The move will provide a muchneeded financial boost to close to 100 farmers, preventing potential food wastage and providing consumers access to cheaper food,” DA Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu-Laurel Jr. said in a statement.

Regional Executive DirectorCordillera Administrative Region officer- in-charge Jennilyn Dawayan has reported that 163,189 kilograms of vegetables were sold and will be sold until Jan. 26, 2024, assisting 93 farmers from the provinces of Mountain Province, Benguet and Ifugao.

“We will continue to provide Kadiwa services to farmers as may be needed,” she said.

“The Kadiwa Veggie Connect started as a collaboration with the Cordillera Association of Regional Executives to help DA monitor vegetable supply and amount of unsold vegetables, particularly cabbages and Chinese cabbage whose prices have fallen due to a supply glut.”

Unsold vegetables from various trading posts totaling 11 tons were initially procured by the national government offices in Baguio City and neighboring areas between Jan. 5 and 6.

From Jan. 8 to 14, farmers sold 44 tons, followed by 105.6 tons a week later at prices ranging from PHP10 to PHP15 per kilo.

Most traders prefer new harvests over older ones and this affects the prices of vegetables.

To prevent prices of vegetables from falling further at trading posts, some vegetable farmers in the Cordilleras usually opt to dump their older inventory.

Tiu-Laurel wants to improve and expand market access for farmers and fisherfolk as part of his 8-point plan to modernize agriculture, increase food production, lower food cost, ensure food security, and make farming and fishery a bankable investment alternative.

“It’s our goal to make agriculture a profitable venture for millions of farmers, fishermen and others in the value chain. By helping them bring their products directly to market, we’re not only helping agriculture workers and entrepreneurs but providing consumers access to lower-priced food products,” he said.

He added that he considers replicating this program in other parts of the country and in other agricultural products such as poultry, livestock, fish and high value crops. with complete requirements within six months from the date of release of the results of the CSE taken.

However, Nograles clarified that individuals can only avail themselves of the CSE-PR grant once.

"The grant of the preference rating is an exceptional privilege extended only to those who have already demonstrated their ability to satisfy the demands of the job despite not having the required civil service eligibility. Through this initiative, we acknowledge that actual job experience is given due consideration in measuring one’s aptitude to perform the duties of a public servant,” he said.

“We are mindful, however, of the need to uphold meritocracy in the hiring process and to ensure that the quality of government service will not be compromised. Therefore, the conferment of CSE-PR will go through a meticulous process so that only those who are truly qualified may avail of this privilege.”

CSC Resolution No. 2301123 will take effect 15 days from the date of publication in a newspaper of general circulation. Complete guidelines regarding the grant of CSE-PR can be accessed on the CSC website at www.csc.gov.ph. (MNS)

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THE LEGACY OF WAR: 51 YEARS ON, VIETNAM PEACE DAY – THIS JANUARY 27, 2024 SAN DIEGO, CA -- Mabuhay!

On Jan. 27, 1973, with the Paris Peace Accords signed and U.S. involvement in Vietnam over, Defense Secretary Melvin R. Laird announced the end of the military draft, after 25 uninterrupted years of conscription. “I wish to inform you,” he declared, “that the Armed Forces henceforth will depend exclusively on volunteer soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines.”

The announcement, 51 years ago this Saturday, January 27th, brought immediate relief to American men ages 19 to 25, who were eligible to be inducted during the war. It also created an arbitrary but lasting divide between the nearly 2 million men who had been drafted and those who would avoid conscription by celebrating their 19th birthdays after January 1973.

War often obscures the past for people born or growing up amid conflict and its aftermath. The Vietnam War lasted from 1964 (the year I graduated from Villamor High School in my beloved historic hometown of Sta. Ana in old Manila) to 1973 (the time my second son Rommel was born at the Naval Hospital on Agana, Guam where my family and I were stationed then) – the longest war in American history until it was overtaken by Afghanistan – and when American servicemen typically did one year tour of duty.

Unlike conflicts with massive demobilizations, men came back from Vietnam by themselves (I remember this quite vividly from personal experience) rather than with their units or companies. For a decade, as one American was shipped off to fight in the war, another was returning.

And notable for the men who served in Vietnam and survive unspeakable horrors, coming home have offered its own kind of trauma. Some say invectives had been hurled their way. As a cohort, Vietnam veterans were met with none of the fanfare and received none of the benefits bestowed upon World War II’s “greatest generation.”

“And instead of getting return peace fingers, I got the middle finger,” as one Vietnam veteran strapped to a gurney in a retrofitted bus – and with other wounded servicemen – explicitly remarked.

Fast forwarding to Vietnam Peace Day, this Saturday, January 27, is truly an important date in the history of America and Vietnam as it marks the day that the United States, South Vietnam, Viet Cong, and North Vietnamese signed

the Paris Peace Accords or the “Agreement on Ending the War and Restoring Peace in Vietnam.”

This effectively ceased America’s involvement in the Vietnam War. Did you – my dear folk know that more than 58,000 patriotic Americans were killed (including my very own first cousin Storekeeper First Class Robert Francis Favor who perished in the province of Quang Nam on 16 December 1969 and who is honored on Panel 15W/Line 63 of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.) in the 20 years of the war? Yes, more than 150,000 American servicemen were also wounded severely, not to mention the losses on the other side.

The American experience in Vietnam was a long and painful one for the participating combatants and the nation. It even took a significant toll on American culture and was considered the most tumultuous period in American history since the Civil War. The roots of the Vietnam War can be traced back to World War II when Japanese military invaded French-ruled Vietnam.

At that time, the political leader Ho Chi Minh formed Viet Minh, inspired by the Chinese and Soviet communists. After their defeat in World War II, Japan withdraw its forces from Vietnam, leaving the French-backed emperor, Bao Dai, in control.

Viet Minh forces seized this opportunity and captured the northern city of Hanoi, declaring the Democratic Republic of Vietnam with Ho as President. On the other side, Bao set up the state of Vietnam on July, with Saigon as its capital. While Ho wanted a communist nation model, Bao wanted a country with western culture. This is the conflict that pitted the communist government of North Vietnam against South Vietnam.

In 1954, the United States began its involvement in the war by backing South Vietnam following its policy of being against any allies of the Soviet Union. After a long and dreadful two decades of war, in January 1973, the United States and North Vietnam signed the final peace agreement, pulling its troops from Vietnam. This was the birth of Vietnam Peace Day. Today, there is no doubt that Vietnam’s economy is prosperously growing and its people are enjoying the fresh air of freedom. On this Vietnam Peace Day, let’s honor and pay tribute to the hundreds of thousands of lives lost in the course of this war.

So, as Americans - did we lose the tragic Vietnam War? According to most historians, the decade-long U.S. military intervention ended as a failure for us all. People have different speculations and beliefs as to why, including inappropriate combat tactics and incorrect media reporting.

Is Vietnam still communist?

"TONKIN GULF YACHT CLUB": The tongue-in-cheek nickname for the United States Seventh Fleet during the Vietnam War.

CASUALTY OF WAR: The author's first cousin Storekeeper First Class Robert Francis Favor is shown here while stationed with the Seabees at the Naval Support Activity, Danang, South Vietnam. He became a casualty of the Vietnam War in the province of Quang Nam on 16 December 1969. He is buried at the Golden Gate National Cemetery in San Bruno, California.

ANOTHER TIME, ANOTHER PLACE: The author posed for posterity while the Alstede-class stores ship U.S.S. Pictor (AF-54) was docked at the Army facilities in Cam Ranh Bay, South Vietnam circa 1969. Then Storekeeper Seaman Reyes served aboard the Navy cargo ship from 25 November 1968 to 26 November 1969.

FIRST VIETNAM WAR DEPLOYMENT: On 12 May 1966, the U.S.S. Chicago (CG-11) got underway for her first Vietnam deployment. The author was assigned to the mighty guided missile cruiser from 26 June 1966 to 15 October 1968 - his first duty station right after Navy boot camp.

I say – kind of, yes. Vietnam is a one-party socialist republic led by a Communist Party.

Is Vietnam a U.S. ally?

I would answer, yes…despite the disastrous past, Vietnam is

January 26, 2024 - February 1, 2024 • 5

Jesse T. Reyes

Filipino Potpourri

considered a potential ally of the United States.

How to observe Vietnam Peace Day? First, I say spread peace! What better way to celebrate Vietnam Peace Day than extending peace and raising awareness about the horrific side of wars. It’s also a momentous day to realize why peace is so important to all of us.

Secondly, study other wars.

Several other conflicts, like the Vietnam War, were fought in the past, and there are many clashes in the world even now – to cite as examples – the Israel-Hamas fight, the Ukraine-Russia combat and the China-Philippines scuffle in the Spratly Islands. Educate yourself and others about the war and do what you can to stop them.

Lastly, try to visit Vietnam – if you can. Vietnam is presently one of the cheapest and most under rated tourist destinations in the world just like our beloved old homeland – the Philippines – which is currently rated as the Number 1 tourist destination on the globe right now. You can call on Vietnam and see how peace has changed the nation…just like in our beloved old, homeland – the Philippines!

Here’s five facts about the Vietnam War that will stun you, my dear readers: (1.) There were other countries involved, too! Other nations, including South Korea, Australia and New Zealand - and of course, our fellow “kababayans” – the “Fighting Filipinos”, also fought in Vietnam. (2.) Americans preferred the enemy’s weapon. The U.S. troops’ standard-issue infantry rifle M-16 was so faulty that they preferred the Vietnam forces’ AK47 in the war. (3.) Most soldiers, Americans that is - volunteered!

Contrary to popular belief, the majority of the men (and women, if I must add, too) who served in Vietnam volunteered with only 25% being drafted. (4.) Not exclusively a jungle campaign. Unlike what we see in the movies about the Vietnam War, it was not selectively a jungle combat, and it was fought with complete tanks and artillery.

(5.) The unofficial Gulf of Tonkin incident. Various official records say the Gulf of Tonkin occurrence did not happen or was not what was advertised.

FYI: The Gulf of Tonkin Incident was an international

So Much Ado About “Fiducia Supplicans,” Part 1 Much of the ado or the fuzz on “Fiducia Supplicans” is magnified

by Catholic media (and picked up by mainstream) who are not supportive of Pope Francis. There are legitimate confusions out there and there is also disinformation, misinformation being sowed to muddy the issue. Pope Francis recently defended a landmark decision approving blessings for same-sex couples, suggesting that those in the Catholic Church who have resisted it have jumped to “ugly conclusions” because they do not understand it.

Well, “understanding” is certainly one reason for Catholics who are willing to understand, to take the time to explore the matter further. Dogma is another reason why some Catholics will refuse to understand, regardless.

Faith and reason, the main pillars of Catholicism are already baked in dogmatic people. So, for those who are willing to understand but are currently confused, there is really nothing to fret about. One way to help understand what’s behind “Fiducia,” is to understand where the pope is coming from.

This is the 21st century where

modernity is a way of life. Billions of Catholics cannot continue to rely on centuries old understanding and traditions. That is why there is a pope who is the leader of the organization. Remember that the pope was selected by cardinals seated in a conclave. The whole idea behind the conclave is that their choice for the papacy is inspired by the Holy Spirit. In the case of Pope Francis, perhaps part of the resistance is the fact that he is the first Jesuit pope that became part of St. Peter’s line of succession.

Another factor to consider is the fact that change is a process that takes time. And certainly, for the Catholic Church, change can be measured in decades, if not centuries. Look, liberalization of the Church began in 1965 when the Vatican II Council was convened

by Pope John XXIII “to bring the Church into the modern world.”

Nearly 60 years later, Pope Francis is picking off where the last pope stopped. But as the case before, the conservatives continue to resist change and would rather stick with ancient traditions.

The process of change (for those

willing to change) involves stages, if you will, that eventually leads to enlightenment and understanding, or failure. Albert Bandura, a Canadian-American psychologist introduced us to the theory of “Self-efficacy,” a framework of change that involves three distinct parameters: initiating a coping behavior, effort expended, and overcoming obstacles.

First, individuals accept that a change is inevitable being a faithful Catholic and initiate a coping behavior like knowing more what the pope is talking about, with an open mind. Individuals then seek out more information about the changes. In the process, opposing views from Conservative sources can become obstacles to fully understand what the implications are for the change or changes.

In the 70’s, James Prochaska, an American researcher introduced the Transtheoretical Model (TTM) also known as the Stages of Change Model to further define the process of change. The model involves five stages: pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. Perhaps we can complement Bandura’s “selfefficacy” theory with Prochaska’s 5-stage model to better understand the evolving change.

Pre-contemplation is marked by lack of awareness of the issue. This is the stage that individuals fail to

see the need to change just because somebody (the pope) introduced a far-reaching change. Like, they don’t care. The clergy, individuals’ loved ones and others maybe who may already be encouraging these individuals to see and understand things differently but won’t budge.

Often, they’ll say, “it’s not my understanding and belief that needs to change, it’s the Church who keeps moving the goal post.”

Eventually (less than a year) that these individuals upon receiving more clarifications, explanations, or an epiphany that they begin to consider the change that has taken place but is ambivalent about the pros and cons and still not committed to making the change.

This is the contemplation stage.

Individuals would often say, “I know that this change is probably good for me and for my faith but until I’m fully convinced, I’m still weighing what others are saying who opposes such change.”

When people accept change as good (preparation stage), and that is the assumption we will be making as to Pope Francis’ motivation for the changes he introduced, it follows what Heraclitus meant when he said, “No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he’s not the same man.”

Jose Mari Chan sang that “Life is a constant change,” with constant

struggle to swim across the river of life that Heraclitus alluded to. This is an important concept because there is a psychological aspect to change that can help lead to moral development from “Fiducia.”

First, let’s entertain the “willing” who are now in the preparation stage.

Behavior modification is not a prerequisite to begin the change process. The mere publication of “Fiducia” and subsequent declarations or clarifications from different sources in the Vatican will not result in instantaneous change or understanding. The fact that the Vatican is providing clarifications indicates that they understand that some people will not “get it.”

Personally, the 40 pages “Fiducia” is not an easy read although the envisioned act is only a “simple” pastoral blessing.

To understand the joy of pastoral or theological importance of “Fiducia,” individuals who have moved to the next stage – maintenance – where individuals have already jumped in the water and don’t want to swim back. It is at this point that individuals need to go back to the time when Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Archbishop of Buenos Aires assumed the papacy in 2013. It also helps to understand that during his earlier assignments including being a theology teacher and

confrontation that led to the United States engaging more directly in the Vietnam War. In early August 1964, two U.S. Navy destroyers stationed in the Gulf of Tonkin radioed that they had been fired upon by North Vietnamese forces.

In response to these reported events, President Lyndon B. Johnson requested permission from the U.S. Congress to increase the American military presence in Indo-China. On August 7, 1964, Congress passed the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, allowing President Johnson to take any measures he believed were necessary to retaliate and to promote the maintenance of international peace and security in Southeast Asia.

This resolution became the legal basis for the Johnson and Nixon Administrations’ prosecution of the Vietnam War. Incidentally, most of my own tour of duties aboard the U.S. Navy ships – guided missile cruiser U.S.S. Chicago (CG-11) and stores ship U.S.S. Pictor (AF-54) - when deployed in Vietnam - were served on the Gulf of Tonkin hence I am a member of the so-called “Tonkin Gulf Yacht Club” – the tonguein-cheek nickname for the United States Seventh Fleet during the Vietnam War. Finally – and most importantly, more than anything else, why is Vietnam Peace Day so influential to us? It is a positive day! The Vietnam War was one of the significant wars of that time, and even today – it’s described as one of the goriest wars (Indeed…shades of the brutal Filipino-American War of 18991902!) that the U.S. has faced.

Vietnam Peace Day marks the end of that ugly war and marks the anniversary of peace in Vietnam.

It saved a lot of lives. The Vietnam War is responsible for many deaths of both U.S. citizens and the people of Vietnam. Putting an end to that war preserved many lives that could have been lost.

It teaches us all that peace brings change. By putting an end to the war, we prevented the destruction of a beautiful country and allowed it to rebuild and grow for the better.

The day also teaches us that war is not the answer.

This article is a testament to how well we - as Americans - have all come since then.

What say you?

rector of Colegio Maximo, that he has solidly attained his credentials to talk theology.

Also, before he joined the clergy, he earned a master’s degree in chemistry and would later earn a liberal arts degree in philosophy.

He would also later teach literature and psychology in secondary schools in Argentina according to his biodata. Clearly, the pope established himself a liberal when it comes to human condition, injustice, and inequity.

Unlike others though, Bishop Bergoglio lived his beliefs and advocacies much like Saint Francis of Assisi who lived in the 12th century and worked among the poor and lived a life of simplicity.

He took public transportation rather than being chauffeured in an expensive car as had been the tradition for bishops who previously held that office. Riding the bus and subway with the poor in Buenos Aires, Bergoglio walked the talk.

In Buenos Aires, Bergoglio already made his positions known on social issues, consistently reiterating the Church teaching in the Catechism that people (including homosexuals) must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. At the same, he also publicly opposed government efforts to promote free contraception and artificial insemination. His stance against abortion, euthanasia, and attempts to redefine traditional marriage were well known in Argentina and in South America. (To be Continued.)

6 • January 26, 2024 - February 1, 2024

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January 26, 2024 - February 1, 2024 • 7

Help Wanted / For Rent / For Sale

BOGTONG

Continued from p­­­­­age

1

June 21st 1924 in Pambujan Sur, Eastern Samar, Philippines. He comes from a family of farmers.

He joined the US Navy in Guiuan, Eastern Samar, Philippines during the war. He served in the battleship Missouri and was on board when representatives from the Japanese Empire signed the instrument of surrender, officially ending WW2 in the Pacific.

He served in the Midway aircraft carrier doing essential work as a cook, steward and barber. He also was on board USS Boxer aircraft carrier and was there for nuclear tests in the Bikini Atoll Pacific in 1958. During the Vietnam war, here was on board the USS Oriskany aircraft carrier.

He was well like by his shipmates and popular with officers. He retired in US Navy on Feb. 3rd 1965 after 20 years of service. After the Navy, he worked at the Naval Air Station North Island Coronado for another extended period as an aircraft

maintenance technician. His 91 year old younger brother, Honorato Bogtong followed his footsteps, serving 20 years in the US Navy.

He married Rosita Dela Cruz in Olongapo City, Subic Bay Philippines in 1951. They were married for 71 years. Wife Rosita passed a few years back. Demetrio and Rosita were founders of the Samar Leyte Organization, General MacArthur St Joseph Club, and the Visayan Circle. They both loved the Filipino American community in San Diego. Enjoying diverse cultures and many social activities in the community.

The US Congressional Gold Medal The US Congressional Gold Medal that Demetrio Bogtong received is a replica of the actual medal now housed in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington DC. The medal surface depicts faces of soldiers and guerrillas in their period uniforms representing the Philippine Commonwealth Army, Philippine Scouts, First Filipino Infantry Regiment, Second

Filipino Infantry Battalion, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, and Recognized Guerrillas — units that comprised major combat forces of the United States Army Forces in the Far East (USAFFE) from July 26,1941 to December 31, 1946.

The medal also depicts a landscape scene of a U.S. Army soldier in a guard and defend position on a beachhead in Leyte during the liberation of the Philippines on October 20, 1944. The medal also highlights the theme “Duty to Country” — the core value inherent in citizenship, patriotism, courage, honor, selfless service, integrity of men and women who willingly served their country in defense of freedom and liberty.

The four major campaigns inscribed on the medal — Bataan and Corregidor, Luzon, Leyte, and Southern Philippines symbolize the battles in an archipelago of over 7,000 islands. The dates are historical dates of the liberation of the Philippines and defeat of Japanese Imperial Forces, and 1946.

Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (US Army, Ret.) FilVetREP Chairman Maj. Gen Antonio Taguba sent an official Two Star Memo which was read at the ceremony. Gen Taguba congratulated veteran Bogtong and his family.

The general noted, Bogtong’s long years of service beyond WW2 was extraordinary. All these years, Gen. Taguba added, veteran Bogtong remained loyal yet unrecognized and uncelebrated for his heroic efforts.

The US Congressional Gold Medal is a fitting tribute to an extraordinary service and uncomplaining loyalty to the United States of America, concluded Gen. Taguba.

FilVet REP and Duty to Country programs Questions about FilVet REP and Duty to Country programs, please reach out to Filipino Press, Susan Delos Santos or Joe Garbanzos.

Thanks.

References: Bogtong Family. Two Star Memo from Gen. Tony Taguba.

The FilVet REP https://filvetrep.org/ congressional-gold-medal/

8 • January 26, 2024 - February 1, 2024

Filipino Press

Spiritual Life The grace of generosity Haver you ever experienced giving away your last money to someone in need, only to receive from others, much more than what you have given away? Have you ever experienced placing the last bill in your wallet on the collection plate, during church worship, only to find upon returning home, bigger amount which you never knew existed?

I have lots of testimonies to share about my experience in giving away what I actually need for myself and my family, giving in faith and in love, without no thought of anything in return. God, in His mysterious ways, gave back much more and provided for all meds.

Poverty in the Philippines is a stark reality. I have worked in the slum areas of Tondo and Quezon City, developing community health projects to alleviate the health and nutritional condition of women and children. My last project when I came to San Diego in 1993 was setting up a Day Care Center at Maestranza, Intramuros, just a stone’s throw away from the Manila Cathedral.

One day my staff informed me of a child who was very ill. The family was so poor. They could not buy medicine or take the child to the hospital. The mother told her that she will just let her child die, just like the previous one whom she took to the hospital

Aurora S. Cudal-Rivera

My Personal Testimony

but died just the same. Since our project did not include giving cash to beneficiaries, I decided to give the last money that I have a week before payday, to help the child. A day later, I received a long forgotten payment of money owed me by a friend.

Then there was a laundry woman, Aling Pestang. She came to me one morning, crying her heart out. Her daughter was sick.

She had no money. She had already approached others before she came to me. I breathed a prayer, “Lord I am giving my marketing money to help Aling Pestang. Please heal her daughter. I believe that you will provide for our own needs.” I gave her what I had, trusting that we could still survive with the food that we had in our refrigerator.

Late in the afternoon that day, my nephew, Douglas Soriano, the present Mayor of San Carlos City, Pangasinan, came for a quick visit.

He rarely came to se me so I was a

bit surprised. After a few minutes of updating ourselves of what was happening in our hometown, he bid goodbye then handed me a thick envelope. I hugged him and said “thank you, what is this for?”

He replied, “I haven’t given you any Christmas gift in the past, now I want you to do your Christmas shopping early enough.”

The unexpected gifts was ten times more than what I gave Aling Pestang earlier.

The Bible says, “Remember this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you; so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:6-8,NIV).

Situational ethics Lord, who may dwell in Your sanctuary? Who may live on Your holy hill? He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart. (Psalm 15:1-2) "I cannot believe they are not going to honor my bonus agreement," said the executive who was about to take another position in a new city. Her understanding of her present work agreement called for a bonus at the end of the year. Management saw the situation differently. "It's not right.

I am entitled to that bonus," she complained.

It was time to leave. The company had given her a laptop to use. However, when she left, she decided that because the company was not going to pay her the bonus she was entitled to, she would simply keep the laptop as compensation due her. "And they would never miss it," she reasoned.

She was now in the employment of the new company. As each day passed, she grew uneasier about her decision. She could not get it off her mind. Finally, she concluded that the Holy Spirit was telling her this decision was wrong and that she needed to call her former boss

Danny Hernaez

From Whom All Blessings Flow to confess her action. She called him and confessed what she had done and why she had done it. Her boss accepted her confession and forgave her. Strangely enough, he allowed her to keep the laptop computer.

Truth never changes. It is absolute. When we make decisions based on other actions that are taken, we move into making decisions based on the situation, not truth and righteousness. The executive may indeed have been wronged, but she had to address the wrong in the appropriate way.

Trying to compensate for the wrong by doing something that violates another scriptural principle is called situational ethics. If the employer had never wronged the executive, do you think she would have felt justified in taking the computer? Probably not. When

you isolate the two situations, you see that one action was taken in response to the other action. Have you had any experiences in which you have used situational ethics?

The Lord desires His people to have a higher standard, even at the cost of being wronged. Ask the Lord to reveal any business practices that may indicate situational ethics.

You might be surprised what will happen when you do the right thing.

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!

We are now in the fourth Sunday in ordinary time of the liturgical calendar of the Catholic church.

Last Sunday I spoke about the central message of mission of Jesus. Chapter 1 verse 15 of the Gospel of Mark proclaims the center of the message of Jesus: “The Kingdom of God is at hand.

Repent and believe in the gospel. I would like to emphasize this once more because repentance and faith are the two evangelical actions that Jesus proclaimed in his mission.

One can only believe truly when he changes himself radically, repenting of one’s sins that would bring oneself open to believing in Jesus. Faith in Jesus would also eventually keep one to continuously be in the process of true conversion which is not only demanded in the gospel but is expected to happen once one becomes a true disciple of Jesus. This leads me to share with you the response of the first disciples whom Jesus encountered and called to discipleship.

Today’s gospel message from Mark 1, 21-28 focuses on the astonishment of the people at the

Fr. Agustin T. Opalalic teaching of Jesus, “for he taught them with authority and not as the scribes.” Jesus taught with authority because he himself was the source of his teaching and his teaching was accompanied by his miraculous power, power that was superior to the dehumanizing possession of the evil spirit which he rebuked and commanded “quiet!

Come out of him.” The people were dumbfounded but could not help but say that “what is this new teaching with authority. He commands that even the unclean spirit obey him.”

This the prophet that was foretold by the writer of the book of Deuteronomy: “A prophet like

me will the Lord your God will raise up for you… Whoever will not listen to words which he speaks in name, I myself will make him answer for it…” This is how we are admonished to listen to the teachings of our Lord who does teach with authority and power so that we would listen to him and be “free of anxieties.” However, the lesson of last week should make us always aware that listening to the teaching of Jesus, done with authority, should lead us to believe and believing in his teachings would also make change our life and lifestyle to become true and real disciples of Jesus.

The goal I have set for our parish this year is formation through adult catechism and studies of scriptures.

It is my fervent hope and prayer that you would cherish the opportunities being offered so that many would attend the bible studies on Tuesdays and catechism on Wednesdays.

Both programs are intended to let you know Jesus more clearly and follow him more dearly so that we all would be his disciples and active members of our Catholic Church.

KASABIHAN Ni Salvador S. Idos

Sa kulturang Pilipino ay may maraming kasabihan Nagsisilbing gabay sa pagtahak ng daan Sa mga taong ito ay pinaniniwalaan Ang hangaring tinatamasa ay natatangap kadalasan.

“Nasa Diyos ang awa, nasa tao ang gawa” Isa sa mga tanyag na kasabihan Isang maikling pangungusap Mahalaga ang mensahe para sa lahat.

Para sa nakakaraming naniniwala Tunay nga na nasa Diyos ang awa, nasa tao ang gawa Upang matamo ang tagumpay na hinahangad

Kailangang magdasal upang kaawaan Kailangan din namang magtrabaho ng husto upang umasenso.

Kapag ang tao naman ay dasal ng dasal at hindi nagtatrabaho, Parang isang gaod din lang ang ginagamit Kaya nga’t ang Bangka ay paikot-ikot din Mahihirapang makamtan ang anumang layunin.

Upang ang Bangka ng ating buhay ay umusod patungo sa paroroonan Kailangang gamitin ang dalawang gaod ng Bangka natin sa buhay

Kinakailangang ugaliin ang magdasal ng taimtim at magtrabaho ng husto Upang ang Bangka ng buhay natin ay sumulong kung saan dapat paroroon.

Salvador S. Idos

Physical Therapists Help People of All Ages.

NATIONAL CITY, CA -- Physical therapists are experts in human movement who are trained to evaluate and treat all kinds of musculoskeletal issues. They are highly trained in prescribing and progressing exercise to help people move and feel better. Because everyone moves and everyone can benefit from exercise, physical therapists can help people through their entire lives.

Some people see a physical therapist shortly after birth. The most common reasons a baby would need to see a PT would be something like torticollis or cerebral palsy. Torticollis is a postural issue that causes babies to hold their heads tipped to one side. Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that causes difficulty with movement and coordination.

As children continue to grow, some have trouble hitting their motor milestones - like rolling, crawling, or walking. Physical therapists can use their expertise to help encourage development of motor skills and coordination to get these children back on track.

Sports injuries become more common in adolescents. Whether it's an ankle sprain, or an ACL surgery, a PT can help. Some adolescents have issues from the rapid growth their bodies go through. Things like growth plate fractures, growing pains, Osgood-Schlatter's disease, and Sever's disease are all common in adolescence.

As adults, a lot of us will have

back pain - studies say up to 80% of us. Physical therapy is one of the first treatments recommended for back pain. Physical therapists also see injured adults. It could be from weekend warrior type sports injuries, overuse, or from an accident at work. Some adults also start to show symptoms of diseases like multiple sclerosis, or myositis which also benefit from physical therapy.

Later in life, people tend to accumulate more health issues that impact their ability to move. Issues like arthritis, joint replacements, strokes, and heart attacks are all things a PT can help with. Physical therapists also help people age better - keeping them moving with exercise programs that help reduce falls, or helping them make adaptations and modifications to keep them in their homes safely.

Movement is a constant in life. As

movement experts, PTs can help people of any age. Some specialize in treating pediatric patients, and some specialize in treating geriatric patients, but all PTs have the expertise to help people move better.

About The Private Practice Section of the American Physical Therapy Association Founded in 1956, the Private Practice Section of the American Physical Therapy Association champions the success of physical therapist-owned businesses.

Our members are leaders and innovators in the healthcare system. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) represents more than 85,000 physical therapists, physical therapist assistants and students of physical therapy nationwide.

For more information, please visit www.ppsapta.org.

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Filipino Press

January 26, 2024 - February 1, 2024 • 9

ECONOMY

Continued from p­­­­­age

1

Cinquegrana, Chief oil analyst at OPIS. The national average for gas in 2023 was $3.52 a gallon — down nearly 11% from $3.95 in 2022, when Russia attacked Ukraine “and there was a concern that markets would lose seven to eight million barrels a day of oil from Russia,” he explained.

“But as the year went on, oil exports continued to non-sanctioning countries like China and India,” he continued. “Though tensions are rising in the Middle East now, the situation looks similar — oil production hasn’t shut, and the only cost added is from the extra time it takes to avoid the area and ship oil around the Cape of Good Hope instead.”

In the year ahead, Cinquegrana said “prices will probably fall five to 15 cents less than 2023 — likely around $3.45 to $3.50.”

Although the nationwide electrification of cars is further increasing the supply and lowering the cost of oil, “this process is very slow,” he added. “It takes about 10

to 12 years to turn over the fleet” of over 280 million cars registered in the U.S. A stronger dampening of prices may owe to the fact that “the cars we drive now are much more fuel-efficient than they were a decade or two ago, and the fact that since the pandemic, many drivers still work from home.”

AAPI small businesses AAPI is the fastest-growing minority community in the U.S., contributing over $1 trillion in economic output in 2021 alone and making up nearly 10% of all entrepreneurs nationwide — with 2.9 million AAPI businessowners employing 5.1 million people, said Chiling Tong, president and CEO of National Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (National ACE).

As AAPI business owners continue to recover from the pandemic, the top challenge they face is “access to capital,” she continued.

“Nearly 30% of respondents to our most recent survey have very low confidence that they could fund an emergency $5,000 business expense.”

What aid is available — specifically the COVID-era Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans — AAPI entrepreneurs are more often unaware of, most often due to language barriers, she added.

In 2021, AAPI small business owners had a 66% funding rate through the Paycheck Protection Program compared to 75% for whites.

Despite these challenges, 2023 saw an unprecedented 5.5 million new business applications filed, making it the strongest year of new business applications on record; in total, the U.S. has over 33 million small businesses.

In short, expectations for the year ahead are mixed: While 61% of owners have a positive outlook for their own business in 2024, 71% hold a bleak view of the economy itself. These conditions mean that the economy is “the number one issue” for many in the AAPI and small business community, said Tong. “Although they feel personally positive, this is because they’ve faced three years of inflating costs and supply disruptions. In 2024, they’ll support leaders who convincingly promise a better economy ahead.”

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

The Filipino Press is published every Saturday. We welcome news, features, editorials, opinions and photos. Please e-mail them to: editor@ filipinopress.com. Photos must be accompanied by self-addressed, postage-paid envelope to be returned. We reserve the right to edit materials. Views and opinions by our writers, contributors does not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, management and staff of the Filipino Press. © 2011 Filipino Press

10 • January 26, 2024 - February 1, 2024

Filipino Press

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Joross Gamboa on 'lucky charm' tag: Not lucky but 'blessed' na discover yung talent ko sa pag adlib. Binibigyan niya ko freedom.

At the same time kay direk Mae Cruz. Talagang siya nag titiwala din sa akin. Saka Star Cinema,” he said.

According to Gamboa, apart from having solid scripts, the creative freedom directors gave him allowed him to further grow as an artist.

More than having a string of blockbuster hits attached to his name, Gamboa emphasized that true

MANILA -- Netizens called actor Joross Gamboa as a box office “lucky charm” after they noted that he appeared in the Philippines’ top 3 highest grossing films: “Rewind,” “Hello, Love, Goodbye,” and “The Hows of Us.” The Star Circle Quest alumnus, however, attributed the milestone to a higher power.

“To be honest, nakakatuwa yung gesture na sinasabing lucky charm ako o pag nasa pelikula nagiging hit,” he said.

“I am truly grateful and thankful sa achievements pati sa mga naka appreciate, pero all glory to God,” he added.

Gamboa also explained that he does not believe in luck.

“Mas naniniwala ako [na] blessed.

It is the other way around. Hindi ako swerte sa pelikula. Mas nakita ko blessed ako dahil napasama ako sa pelikula na tinatangkilik ng mga tao,” he reasoned.

Gamboa expressed deep gratitude for having the chance to display his talents in iconic Philippine films.

The actor acknowledged Cathy Garcia Molina, the director of "Hello, Love, Goodbye" and "The Hows of Us," as well as Mae Cruz who directed “Rewind,” for trusting him with the opportunities to showcase his craft.

“I want to credit this to Direk Cathy Garcia na dahil sa kanya mas

success is measured by the number of people his characters have moved.

“Nakakatuwa mga achievements.

Pero for me, it is just work. I am blessed to bless other people, to touch peoples lives sa industry na ito,” he said.

“Katulad lkami mga arıtsa bang nagtatrabaho.

Difference lang lumalabas kami sa TV. Pero lahat taro pantay-pantay lang,” he added.

(MNS)

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Filipino Press

January 26, 2024 - February 1, 2024 • 11

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12 • January 26, 2024 - February 1, 2024

Filipino Press

County, San Diego Foundation Launch Flood Response Fund

By Tracy DeFore/CSDCO SAN DIEGO, CA -- San Diegans who want to help local victims recover from this week’s severe storm can now make financial donations to a new Flood Response Fund.

The County worked with the San Diego Foundation to set up the online fund. The San Diego Foundation will match donations up to $100,000.

Money from the fund will only be directed to non-profits helping flood victims. The fund is not accepting any non-monetary donations at this time.

Monday’s storm was the fourth wettest day recorded since 1850. The torrential downpours caused millions of dollars of damage, flooded streets and roadways, damaged hundreds of

homes and created mudslides, erosion and more.

Crews are still assessing the damage.

The County is asking for the public’s help in reporting the damage through a voluntary online survey. The survey will only be used to gather information to determine if the County is eligible for state and/or federal assistance.

Completing the form does not guarantee that you will be eligible to receive any disaster relief assistance. Filling out the survey is not a substitution for filing a claim with your insurance. You should check with your own insurance first to check for coverage.

Before attempting to clean up after the storm, visit the recovery page at AlertSanDiego.org for tips on

documenting damage. This will help as you submit costs and claims to your insurance company.

The County urges all county residents to be prepared for emergencies.

Register for AlertSanDiego.org and download the SD Emergency mobile app to receive emergency notifications, updates, and preparedness information, like a personal disaster plan and go-kit in case of evacuation.

Regine Rocks Concert Ipinagmamalaking ihandog ng Pechanga Resort Casino ang Regine Rocks concert na gaganapin sa Biyernes, Pebrero 9, alas-otso ng gabi sa Pechanga Theater.

Si Regine Velasquez ay isang mang-aawit at aktres na Filipino.

Itinuturing siya na isa sa may pinakamalaking impluwensya sa Philippine popular culture at kilala sa kanyang vocal range at belting technique. Sumikat si Velasquez pagkatapos manalo sa isang television talent show, Ang Bagong Kampeon noong 1984 at sa Asia Pacific Singing Contest taong1989.

Nagkamit sya ng commercial success sa ilang Asian territories sa kanyang pang-limang album, Listen Without Prejudice, na bumenta ng mahigit sa 700,000 na kopya at sa kasalukayan ay nakatala bilang highest-selling album niya. Gumanap din na bida si Velasquez sa mga romantic comedies tulad ng Kailangan Ko’y Ikaw at Pangako Ikaw Lang kung saan siya ay hinirang na Box Office Queen mula sa Box Office Entertainment Award. Bilang Asia’s Songbird, siya as patuloy na binibigyang papuri sa pagbibigay inspirasyon sa isang henerasyon ng mga Pilipinong

mang-aawit. Napakarami na niyang natanggap na mga awards, kabilang na ang MTV Asia’s Favorite Artist Philippines noong 2002 at 2003, pati na ang Entertainer of the Year mula sa Aliw Awards noong 2007, 2009 at 2019. Para sa kanilang ‘Iconic’ concert, nagtanghal si Regine Velasquez kasama si Sharon Cuneta sa Pechanga Summit noong July 22 at July 23, 2023. Siya ay nagbabalik para gumawa ng isang mas personal na pagtatanghal para sa kanyang mga tagahanga at masayang-masaya siya na mangyayari na ito!

-Magmadali, huwag mo itong palampasin! Bumili na ngayon ng tiket mo sa Pechanga Box Office, tumawag sa 888-810-8871 o pumunta sa www.pechanga.com.

Ang mga pagtatanghal sa Pechanga Theater ay nagdudulot ng komportable at natatanging karanasan sa konsierto. May 1,200 na mag upuan sa teatro, habang bawat isang pagtatanghal ay naghahandog ng mga makabago, naayong tugtuging akma sa pandinig, at komportableng mga upuan at malapitang tanaw habang nakaupo sa teatro.

Mga Impormasyon Tungkol sa

Pechanga Resort Casino Nakapaghahandog ang Pechanga Resort Casino ng isa sa pinakamalaki at pinakamalawak na resort/casino experiences saan man sa Estados Unidos. Ibinoto bilang pinakamagaling na casino sa kanluran ng Amerika ang Pechanga Resort Casino ng USA Today at may kategoryang Four Diamond property mula sa AAA mula pa noong 2002. Nakapagbibigay din ang Pechanga Resort Casino ng walang katulad na bakasyon, maging para sa isang araw lang o sa mas mahaba at maginhawa pang pagtigil sa resort.

Naghahandog ng higit sa 5,500 ng mga pinakamaiinit na slots, 152 table games, 1,100 rooms at suite hotel, dining, luxury spa, at golf sa Journey at Pechanga. Ang Pechanga Resort Casino ay nagtatampok ng isang destinasyon na ‘di kayang pantayan saan man sa California. Pag-aari at pinapaandar ng Pechanga Band of Indians ang Pechanga Resort Casino.

Para sa karagdagang impormasyon, tumawag ng toll free sa (877) 7112946 o bisitahin ang www.Pechanga. com. Sundan ang Pechanga Resort Casino sa Facebook, Instagram at sa X @PechangaCasino.

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Another Storm on the Way: Where to Get Sandbags

By Sir Milo Loftin/CSDCO

SAN DIEGO-- With the possibility of another storm heading to the region next week, the County and CAL FIRE are offering free sandbags to residents and businesses in the unincorporated area to prepare for heavy rain.

The Jan. 22 storm brought historic rainfall to the county, causing flood damage to many homes and businesses. Forecasters say more rain may arrive by the middle of next week.

To prepare for potential flooding or soil erosion, people in the unincorporated areas can visit any one of several fire stations to get and fill sandbags.

People should call ahead to check availability, since some stations may have a limited supply.

Be sure to bring your own shovel to fill your bags.

Sand and bags Bonita: Bonita-Sunnyside Fire Station #38: 4900 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA 91902, P: 619-479-2346 Boulevard: Boulevard Fire Station #47: 40080 Ribbonwood Road, Boulevard, CA 91905, P: 619-3902020 De Luz: De Luz Fire Station #16: 39431 De Luz Road, Fallbrook, CA 92028 P: 760-728-2422 Dulzura: Dulzura Fire Station #30: 17304 Highway 94, Dulzura, CA 91917, P: 619-468-3391 Fallbrook: Pala Mesa Fire Station #4, 4375 Pala Mesa Drive, Fallbrook, CA 92028, P: 760-723-2005 Julian: Julian-Cuyamaca: Fire Station #56, 3407 Hwy 79, Julian, CA 92036, P: 760-765-2885 Lakeside: Lakeside’s River Park Conservancy, 12108 Industry Road, Lakeside 92040 P:619443-4770. *Limit 10 sandbags per household.

Call ahead to confirm hours and availability.

Palomar Mountain: Palomar Mountain Fire Station #79, 21610 Crestline Road, Palomar Mtn., CA 92060, P: 760-742-3701 Potrero: Potrero Fire Station #31 25130 Highway 94, Potrero, CA 91963 P: 619-478-5544

Ramona: Ramona Fire Station #81, 24462 San Vicente Road, Ramona, CA 92065, T: 760-789-9465 Ramona: Ramona Fire Station #82, 3410 Dye Road, Ramona, CA 92065, P: 760-789-0107 Rincon: Rincon Fire Station #70: 16971 Highway 76, Pauma Valley, CA 92061, P: 760-742-3243 Valley Center: Valley Center Fire Station #2, 28205 N. Lake Wohlford Road, Valley Center, CA 92082, P: 760-751-7605 Warner Springs: Sunshine Summit Fire Station #59, 35227 Highway 79, Warner Springs, CA 92086, P: 760782-9113 Bags only (Partial list of places) Alpine: Alpine Fire Station #17 1364 Tavern Road Alpine, CA 91901 P: 619-445-2635 Borrego Springs: Ocotillo Wells Fire Station #61 5841 Highway 78, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 P: 760767-7430 Borrego Springs: Borrego Springs

Station #60, 2324 Stirrup Road, Borrego Springs, CA 92004, P: 760767-5436 Campo: Campo Fire Station #40 31577 Highway 94, Campo, CA 91906 P: 619-478-5516 Campo: Lake Morena Fire Station #42 29690 Oak Drive, Campo, CA 91906 P: 619-478-5960 Descanso: Descanso Fire Station #45 24592 Viejas Grade Road, Descanso, CA 91916 P: 619-445-7508 El Cajon: Harbison Canyon Fire Station #24 551 Harbison Canyon Road, El Cajon, CA 92019 P: 619445-5001 Residents are encouraged to visit AlertSanDiego.org for information on what to do during an emergency, tips on how to prepare for a disaster, and find resources about recovery efforts.

You may also want to check out this how-to video, “You’ve Got Your Sandbags, Now What?” that explains how to properly fill and use sandbags to protect your property.