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JANUARY 4-10, 2024 Volume 35 - No. 1 • 12 Pages

T HE F ILIPINO A MERICAN C OMMUNITY N EWSPAPER

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China, US hold rival drills in West Philippine Sea DATELINE USA FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Easy New Year’s resolutions to get in touch with your Pinoy side NEW year, better you! Now that we’ve started 2024 (and probably, hopefully, have shaken off the groggy remnants of the holidays), it’s time we look forward to everything in store for us in the new year. For most, that also means setting intentions or resolutions for the new year. Resolutions are a hit or miss with most people, as some don’t believe in being able to sustain them throughout the year. But don’t worry—this list is simple enough to accomplish. Plus, it’s fun. (Resolutions can be fun!) Make this the year you get better connected with your Filipino side through these simple goals. Learn to cook Filipino food Most Filipino dishes are simple and can be done in one pot or pan. You can start with the quintessential adobo, or a comforting lugaw (perfect for the cold, winter months!). The great thing about Filipino food, especially home-cooked staples, is that you probably won’t even need any special equipment or  PAGE 4

States expand health coverage for immigrants as GOP hits Biden over border crossings A GROWING number of states are opening taxpayer-funded health insurance programs to immigrants, including those living in the U.S. without authorization, even as Republicans assail President Joe Biden over a dramatic increase in illegal crossings of the southern border. Eleven states and Washington, D.C., together provide full health insurance coverage to more than 1 million low-income immigrants regardless of their legal status, according to state data compiled by KFF Health News. Most aren’t authorized to live in the U.S., state officials say. Enrollment in these programs could nearly double by 2025 as at least seven states initiate or expand coverage. In January, Republican-controlled Utah will start covering children regardless of immigration status, while New York and California will widen eligibility to cover more adults. “These are kids, and we have a heart,”  PAGE 4

by MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN Philstar.com

Chinese and U.S. warships were in the South China Sea on Thursday, January 4 conducting rival exercises in the disputed waters amid heightened tensions involving U.S. ally the Philippines. Beijing’s People’s Liberation Army Southern Theater Command a day before said a two-day deployment of its navy and air force, scheduled to end today, was carrying out “routine patrols” in the sea. It did not mention where exactly the patrols took place or give specific details of the goals of the ex-

ercises. They took place as the United States said an aircraft carrier strike group led by the USS Carl Vinson was conducting two days of drills with the Philippine Navy. Beijing claims almost the entire South China Sea and has ignored an international tribunal ruling that its assertions have no legal basis. It deploys boats to patrol the busy waterway and has built artificial islands that it has militarized to reinforce its claims. And while China typically uses its coast guard to enforce its claims in the area, military exercises are not uncommon, with Beijing’s navy conducting “routine” drills in late November.

But this week’s drills follow a month of tense standoff between China and the Philippines in Ayungin Shoal that saw a collision between vessels from the two countries and Chinese ships blasting water cannons at Philippine boats. One expert told AFP that Beijing was seeking to turn the South China Sea “into a Chinese-controlled waterway and a strategic chokepoint for other countries.” “The South China Sea is becoming... a key defensive zone for China,” Michael Raska, assistant professor and military expert at Singapore’s Nanyang  PAGE 2

Marcos vows to ‘build better, more’ in 2024 by CATHERINE S. VALENTE ManilaTimes.net

BLACK NAZARENE MERCHANDISE. This couple prints and sells Black Nazarene-themed 2024 personalized calendars in their shop along Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City on Wednesday, Jan. 3, ahead of the Feast of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila. About 2.5 million devotees are expected to join the procession or “Traslacion” on Jan. 9. PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. vowed that the government will “build better and more” this year. In a pre-recorded New Year’s message, the president said that he looks back on 2023 “pleased” with the administration’s accomplishments. “Your government’s New Year’s resolution is to fully work towards giving efficient and devoted service, which will be the key to improving life for us all,” Marcos said. “We look forward to the new year with a pledge to build better and more. We have set high hopes for the days ahead, and we know that these can only be achieved with hard work.” The president also promised to keep the nation united in the face of new challenges. “No doubt the coming year will bring its fair share of new challenges. But these we have weathered before, like the great tribulations our forefathers defeated, and as a proud inheritors of this indefatigable spirit, we, too, shall overcome,” he said. He reported that in 2023, his administration built 33 specialty centers, over 2,000 classrooms, and seven additional co-chain facilities. The government also facilitated investments in renewable energy with a total potential capacity of  PAGE 2

No Filipino hurt in magnitude 7.5 quake in Japan - envoy by BERNADETTE E. TAMAYO ManilaTimes.net

MANILA - No Filipinos were hurt during the 7.5 magnitude earthquake that hit the Ishikawa Prefecture in Japan on New Year’s Day although some of them sought shelter in evacuation shelters, Philippine Ambassador to Tokyo Mylene Garcia-Albano said. Garcia-Albano on Tuesday, January 2 gave an update on the situation of Filipinos in Ishikawa during a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon television interview. “We have not received any report of Filipin-

nos there who have been harmed because of the earthquake that occured yesterday (Monday) afternoon,” Albano said in Filipino and English. She said there are about 1,300 Filipinos in Ishikawa Prefecture, which is in the western part of Japan and near the sea, which prompted officials to issue a tsunami warning. “There were about 35 of them who [were] transferred to the city hall because of the evac- Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao during his appearance in the Rizin 45 event in Saitama, Inquirer.net photo uation alert that was given out last night,” Gar- Japan. cia-Albano said. The embassy received reports that some  PAGE 4

DOT sets 7.7 million target international arrivals for 2024 MANILA — After surpassing its conservative target of international visitors in 2023, the Department of Tourism is increasing its target number of international arrivals to 7.7 million in 2024 — the highest target it has set since the COVID-19 pandemic paused global tourism. In a release, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said that the country is aiming to reach at least 7.7 million international visitors in 2024, which is just half a million lower than the country’s preConcluding her presentation of the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) Accomplishments on December pandemic arrivals of 8.2 million 12, 2023, Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco shared the baseline target of 7.7 million international in 2019. In 2023, the Philippines visitor arrivals next year. DOT photo

recorded a total of 5.45 million international visitors, higher than the projected 4.8 million it set for the year. South Korea remained the country’s main source of international visitors, making up 26% or over one out of four foreign arrivals. This is followed by the United States (17%), Japan (6%) and Australia (5%). Other foreigners who visited the country from other top source markets after China were from Canada, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, Singapore and Malaysia.  PAGE 2

Pacquiao ‘ready’ to fight Mayweather again in 2024 by LANCE AGCAOILI Inquirer.net

MANILA — Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao seeks to face rival Floyd Mayweather Jr. in a rematch in 2024. The former eight-division world champion on New Year’s Eve announced during the Rizin 45 mixed martial arts event in Saitama that he will have a “big fight” in Japan this year. Rizin chief executive Nobuyuki Sakakibara revealed that Pacquiao will be facing Mayweather nine years after last facing each other in what was dubbed the “Fight of the Century.” Sakakibara asked the Filipino boxer if he could fight Mayweather

this year and the latter answered: “I’m ready.” “Thank you so much for inviting me here again. I’m sorry for the last time that we promised that we were going to fight this year, but like Sakakibara-san explained,” said Pacquiao, who had promised to have an exhibition match against a Japanese fighter during his 2022 New Year’s Eve appearance but it didn’t push through. But the 45-year-old retired professional boxer promised something bigger to the Japanese crowd. “[This] year I hope to see you here in Japan again with a big  PAGE 4

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JANUARY 4-10, 2024 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

From The FronT Page

China, US hold rival drills in... PAGE 1

– a former navy chief and deputy commander of the Southern Theater Command – as Beijing’s defense minister. Sheena Chestnut Greitens, an expert in Chinese politics, said Dong’s background in “important areas of military tension” and as a naval official may have played a role in his promotion. ” She said Dong “has operational experience and background in the challenges presented by Taiwan, the South China Sea and the East China Sea.” In Manila, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said at least two Chinese naval vessels shadowed Philippine and U.S. ships conducting joint drills under the 2nd Maritime Cooperation Activity (MCA) in the West Philippine Sea on Wednesday, January 3. “The shadowing happened during the activity and I think

as of now they are still shadowing, they’re not leaving our trail nor have stopped following our vessels,” Trinidad told reporters. But he stressed everything “went well” during the MCA, which ended on Wednesday. The previous MCA was held in November. “As long they do not interfere or do dangerous maneuvers against our vessels, then we will be proceeding as planned and I think we’ve been doing well,” he said, referring to the Chinese vessels. Coincidence Trinidad said that while the holding of the 2nd MCA may have merely coincided with China’s own patrols, “we want to emphasize, that the MCA is basically well within our EEZ.” “So based on our conduct of exercises and based on international law and we hope that all other countries will be respecting the exercise of our sovereignty and our rights for the conduct of said activities well within our exclusive economic zone,” he stressed. He revealed that similar joint activities with the U.S. and other partner countries would be held this year as part of promoting capability development and interoperability among participants. For the latest MCA, the AFP said the Philippine Navy utilized four of its vessels as well as a Search and Rescue/multi-role helicopter, and an anti-submarine warfare capable helicopter. The U.S., for its part, deployed the Carl Vinson of the Carrier Strike Group 1, as well as a cruiser, two destroyers and multiple combat aircraft. AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said the 2nd MCA “marks a significant leap in our alliance and interoperability with the United States.” “It also demonstrates our progress in defense capabilities and development as a world-class armed force, as we carry out our mandate to protect the people and the state,” he added. “Our alliance is stronger than ever, sending a message to the world. We are advancing a rulesbased international order and a Philippine Navy ships PS15, PS16 and LD602 in line formation during the 2nd iteration of the free and open Indo-Pacific region AFP-USINDOPACOM Military Cooperative Activity in West Philippine Sea on Wednesday, January 3. in the face of regional challengArmed Forces of the Philippines photo es,” Brawner said. g Technological University, said. Beijing is also using the area to test “reconnaissance and surveillance,” he said, deepening its ability to “project presence and influence in the sea.” China this week insisted the Philippines was to blame for the spike in tensions, with the foreign ministry saying Manila had “reneged on its words, changed its policy, infringed on China’s sovereignty and made provocations again and again and triggered complex situations.” Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told a regular press conference on Dec. 29 that “China will take resolute measures against any violation of our sovereignty and provocation, and firmly safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.” This week’s drills also follow the appointment of Dong Jun

Clark County Fire Department FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU 4701 W. Russell Road • Las Vegas, NV 89118 (702) 455-3000 • Fax (702) 221-0630 John Steinbeck, Fire Chief Kelly Blackmon, Sr. Deputy Fire Chief/Fire Marshal Danny Horvat, Assistant Fire Chief • Wayne Dailey, Assistant Fire Chief

PATALASTASTAS SA PUBLIKO: Mga Mungkahi’ng Pagbabago sa Kodigo Ng Lalawigan ng Clark Tungkol sa: Titulo 12, Kabanata 13.04 Mangyaring bigyang pansin na ang isang regulasyon ay iminungkahi ng Lupon ng mga Komisyonero ng Lalawigan sa Lalawigan ng Clark. Ang iminungkahi’ng alituntunin ay babaguhin ang Titulo 13, Kabanata 13.04 ng Kodigo ng Lalawigan ng Clark upang idagdag ang Subseksyon 106.6.1.1 mga Bayarin sa Muling Pagsusumite at Subseksyon 106.6.1.2 Mga Bayarin sa Pagbabago sa Seksyon 13.04.070 Saklaw at Pangangasiwa upang isama ang mga karagdagang bayarin sa pagsusuri ng plano. Ang iminungkahi’ng tuntunin ay isasama at tutukuyin din ang wika gaya ng inilarawan sa Seksyon 106.6, Iskedyul ng Bayad Serbisyo at Permiso, Talahanayan 106-G. Bago ang pagpapatibay sa iminungkahi’ng tuntunin, ang Lupon ng mga Komisyonero ng Lalawigan sa Lalawigan ng Clark ay inatasan ng NRS 237.080 na gumawa ng isang pinagsama-sama’ng pagsisikap upang matukoy kung ang panukala’ng panuntunan ay magpapataw ng isang direkto at malaki’ng pasanin sa ekonomiya nang isang negosyo o direkto’ng paghihigpitan ang pagbuo, pagpapatakbo o pagpapalawak ng isang negosyo. Dahil dito, ang mga samahan sa pangangalakal, may-ari at mga opisyal ng mga negosyo na malamang na maapektuhan ng iminungkahi’ng panuntunan na ito, at ang iba pang interesado’ng mga tao ay kinakailanga’ng patalastasan at bigyan ng pagkakataon na magsumite ng mga komento, datos, o argumento sa Lalawigan tungkol sa kung ang iminungkahi’ng panuntunan ay: a) Magpapataw ng isang direkto at malaki’ng pasanin sa ekonomiya nang isang negosyo; o b) Direkto’ng paghihigpitan ang pagbuo, pagpapatakbo o pagpapalawak Ang mga komento ay kailanga’ng matanggap ng hindi lalampas sa 5:30 n.h. sa Enero 18, 2024 tulad ng sumusunod: Sa pamamagitan ng pagdadala sa: Kawanihan ng Pag-iwas sa Sunog sa Lalawigan ng Clark Lobi ng Kustomer 4701 W. Russell Road, Las Vegas, NV 89118 Attn: Sarah Stevens Lunes – Huwebes, 7:30 n.u - 5:30 n.h. Sa pamamagitan ng Koreo: Kagawaran ng Sunog sa Lalawigan ng Clark - Kawanihan ng Pag-iwas sa Sunog Attn: Sarah Stevens, Administrative Secretary 4701 W. Russell Road, Las Vegas, NV 89118 Sa pamamagitan ng email: shs@clarkcounty.nv - o - Sa pamamagitan ng facsimile: 702-678-5220 Ang isang kopya ng iminungkahi’ng panuntunan ay makikita din para sa pagsusuri online sa: https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/government/departments/fire/fire prevention library.php#outer-10618 at Kagawaran ng Sunog sa Lalawigan ng Clark Unang Palapag sa Lobi 575 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119 Lunes hanggang Huwebes mula 7:30 n.u. hanggang 7:30 n.g.

-o-

Kagawaran ng Sunog sa Lalawigan ng Clark – Kawanihan ng Pag-iwas sa Sunog 4701 W. Russell Road, Las Vegas, NV 89118 Lunes hanggang Huwebes mula 7:30 n.u. hanggang 5:30 n.h.

Taos-puso, John Steinbeck, Fire Chief BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

JAMES B. GIBSON, Chair • JUSTIN C. JONES, Vice Chair MICHAEL NAFT • MARILYN KIRKPATRICK • ROSS MILLER • WILLIAM McCURDY II • TICK SEGERBLOM • JUSTIN C. JONES YOLANDA T. KING, County Manager

BACK TO SCHOOL. Parents and guardians help learners of the President Corazon Aquino Elementary School cross the Batasan Road in Quezon City on Wednesday, Jan. 3. The students trooped back to school after emerging from their Christmas and New Year’s holiday break. PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

Marcos vows to ‘build better, more... PAGE 1

around 121,000 megawatts and completed eight water supply projects, Marcos said. “We also completed eight water supply projects, with 147 additional water projects being implemented in preparation for next year,” Marcos said, referring to the threat of El Niño. He cited government assistance programs, including college scholarships and livelihood grants, as well as welfare programs that are meant to help people “graduate” from poverty. The president said these programs serve as government

support for Filipino skilled and talented workers that will serve as ladders to fulfilling their dreams. “This is the reason why we continue to give support to our farmers, from seedlings to fertilizers to fuel, because their sweat alone should not nurture the crops they grow in feeding the nation,” Marcos said. “We will continue to purge the government of rules that slow the delivery of public services because when projects get delayed, progress is denied our people,” Marcos said. “And this commitment to efficiency and service will extend

to documents and licenses, because service delayed is also service denied,” he added. Meanwhile, the president reminded Filipinos “that great things are always possible so long as we keep the faith in each other, in our nation, and in God.” “I am one with those of you who are fervently praying that the coming days will be filled with hope brought by prosperity for all,” Marcos said. “And as long as values that bind us keep us united in our collective pursuit of shared progress, we will succeed. Mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas,” he added. g

DOT sets 7.7 million target international... PAGE 1

Lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 had put a brake in the tourism industry worldwide, and it was only in 2022 that the tourism department in the Philippines resumed setting their target number of foreign arrivals for the year.

According to the DOT, the Philippines has recovered 66% of its record number of international arrivals in 2019. The local tourism industry is also “recovering faster than expected,” according to the DOT, which noted that international tourism receipts have “surged”

at an estimated P482 billion in 2023. This is 124% higher than the previous year. Frasco previously said that the Philippines may once again breach the 8 million mark in terms of the number of tourists by 2025. (Cristina Chi/Philstar. com)

LAS VEGAS – Culinary Union was proud to mark the historic and hard-fought union contracts won for over 40,000 hospitality workers in Las Vegas by hosting a celebration with Vice-President of the United States of America Kamala Harris at the Culinary Union HQ and hundreds of Culinary Union members. Also in attendance for the event was Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, Senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen, Congressional Representatives Dina Titus, Steven Horsford, and Susie Lee, Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford, and other elected leaders. After the celebratory event, Culinary Union also hosted a small employee dining room chat with Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, and several Culinary Union members who are shop stewards and negotiating committee leaders onsite at a Las Vegas Strip casino where workers shared their favorite part of winning the best contract ever and that they aren’t going to leave anyone behind. “With President Biden and Vice President Harris in office, workers that know we've got backup and political leadership that values working families, and that's just it's a big deal for us. It gives us hope and strength,” said Ted Pappageorge, Secretary-Treasurer for the Culinary Union. “We have won historic contracts for 40,000 workers, but we aren’t done fighting yet. We will be setting strike deadlines very soon for nearly 8,000 hospitality workers so that they and their families aren’t left behind from the economic recovery companies are enjoying. Companies are well and workers must win our fair share -

we will be fighting very hard to win the best contract ever so that one job is enough!” “Knowing that the Vice President and the President have our backs means a whole lot to us,” said Glen Wilson, in-room dining food server at Caesars Palace and Culinary Union member for 24 years. “I’m proud that we protected and expanded our strong union technology language. Our technology language means that workers can grow with technology and have a seat at the table. It means that new technology centers us and we have the opportunity for job training, so that any new jobs created by technology - are good union jobs.” “Fresh off a year of major victories for unions nationwide, I'm thrilled to kick off 2024 by celebrating the Nevada workers who are driving our economy,” said Senator Catherine Cortez Masto. “My family built a life in Las Vegas thanks to the support unions provided, and I’ll always stand with organized labor and our working families.” “It was a hard fight, but we won mandatory daily room cleaning language for tens of thousands of housekeepers in Las Vegas - we aren’t done yet. We still have 23 casinos to go on the Strip, Downtown, and in Northern Nevada and we won’t leave anyone behind,” said Elsa Roldan, guest room attendant at the Bellagio and Culinary Union member for 15 years. “I’m happy that President Biden and Vice President Harris support us in our fight, and as a leader myself, I’m glad to see a strong woman like us who helps lead the country everyday and I’m so glad she has our backs. We have her back too.” “I know firsthand the incredible things unions do to uplift Nevada’s

hardworking families, build up our middle class, and help Nevadans achieve the American Dream,” said Senator Jacky Rosen. “All workers deserve a good-paying job, a safe workplace, and a secure retirement. I’m standing with members of the Culinary Union to celebrate their historic wins and new contracts because one job should be enough.” “We are fighting for the best contract ever because we shouldn’t be working two jobs to support our families. One job should be enough! I’ve been fighting to win the best contract ever at the El Cortez by showing up at picket lines, protests, and actions to show these Downtown companies that we are ready to do whatever it takes to win. Having strong safety language at work is an important issue for me. We are pushing to expand safety buttons so that more workers are protected when we are working in the casino floors and we are fighting to strengthen our existing safety language in the contract,” said Linda Hunt, food server at the El Cortez and Culinary Union member for 45 years. “We will need support from everyone to win these remaining 23 contracts and having President Biden and Vice President Harris’ support definitely makes a difference.” “I’m proud to represent Nevadans in Nevada’s Fourth Congressional District affectionately called ‘Culinary District 4,’” said Congressman Steven Horsford. “I want to take a moment and recognize all the working mothers that make up the Culinary Union membership. So many of you are working to provide for your children and families and make sure that they have everything they need to be successful u PAGE 4

Culinary Union celebrates historic union for 7K hospitality workers in Nevada

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 4-10, 2024

(702) 792-6678 • http://www.asianjournal.com

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Dateline USa

JANUARY 4-10, 2024 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678

Easy New Year’s resolutions to get in touch... States expand health coverage for immigrants...

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training to learn them—just listen to your mom. Travel to (at least) one new destination It’s normal to set a travel goal for the year, so while you’re at it, include a Philippine destination to your list. Whether you’re coming home to Manila (as the iconic song goes) or visiting the provinces, there’s a wealth of food to try, activities to do, and sights to see. Beaches are always a good idea, but there are also many destinations in the country for various interests, be it coffee, nightlife, or even adventure. Read more books Instead of doomscrolling your nights away, turn to a good ol’ book. In 2023, we saw a good

number of Filipino authors make their mark in bestselling book lists globally, so if you haven’t yet, this is the best time to grab a copy. There’s a wealth of genres to choose from, too, from memoirs and fantasy novels to cookbooks and photographic journals. Support local designers Filipino creativity is just on another level. As we get all excited about seeing our national dress on red carpets, or locally made bags and accessories in the hands of our favorite Hollywood celebs, there’s definitely no reason we can’t make a statement by carrying around these pieces, too. This year, invest in more Filipinodesigned pieces, be it in clothes, bags, or even your makeup. Improve your vocabulary

Learning a new language is always a top New Year’s resolution, and for good reason. Not only does it add new knowledge, but it also opens you up to another way of seeing the world. A new language also helps improve your social skills, and that’s always something good and necessary to build. If one of your dreams is to get in touch with your Filipino roots better, start by mastering the language. Learn and use beautiful new words every day (or even slang if you want something more casual) and soon enough, you’ll be surprised at how fluent you’ll become. (A bonus: More and more people are speaking Tagalog, which means you’ll have more people to practice with.) (Pau Miranda/Inquirer.net)

said Utah state Rep. Jim Dunnigan, a Republican who initially opposed his state’s plan to cover children lacking legal status but relented after compromises including a cap on enrollment. There are more than 10 million people living in the U.S. without authorization, according to estimates by the Pew Research Center. Immigrant advocates and academic experts point to two factors behind state leaders’ rising interest in providing health care to this population: The pandemic highlighted the importance of insurance coverage to control the spread of infectious diseases; and some states are focusing on people without legal status to further drive down the country’s record-low uninsured rate. States have also expanded to run as president in the May 9, coverage in response to pleas 2022 elections but he lost. from hospitals, lawmakers say, Pacquiao last fought against to reduce the financial burden South Korean YouTuber DK Yoo of treating uninsured patients. in his first exhibition match by All states pay hospitals to unanimous decision in six rounds provide emergency services to last December 2022. some unauthorized residents in The former senator has another emergency rooms, a program exhibition set in April against Thai known as Emergency MedicBuakaw Banchamek. aid. About a dozen states have Mayweather already saw action extended coverage for only prein 10 exhibition matches but his natal care for such people. Full last in June against John Gotti III state-provided health insurance ended up with an in-ring brawl. g coverage is much less common, but increasing. An estimated half of the people living in the U.S. without authorization are uninsured, condition of our countrymen,” she according to a KFF-Los Angeles said. Times survey. That’s more than Asked what advice she can give five times the uninsured rate for to Filipinos in Japan, Garcia-Al- U.S. citizens. Immigrants lackbano said, “We are here to help. ing authorization are ineligible Please visit our website in case for federal health programs. But you need something.” states can use their own mon“Our [telephone] hotline is ey to provide coverage through there. Please reach out to us if we Medicaid, the state-federal can provide help. We will try to insurance program for low-inrespond as quickly as we can. We come people. are also following Japan governCalifornia was the first state ment sources [for any updates],” to begin covering immigrants she said. g regardless of their legal status, starting with children in 2016. “This is a real reflection of the conflict we have in the country and how states are realizing benefits which is amazing! We are we cannot ignore immigrant not done yet and we support our communities simply because brothers and sisters until we win of their immigration status,” all contracts,” said Elena New- said Adriana Cadena, director man, guest room attendant at the of the advocacy group ProtectMandalay Bay and Culinary Union ing Immigrant Families. Many member for 20 years. “President of the millions of people withBiden and Vice President Harris out permanent legal residency are the most pro-worker elected have been in the United States leaders that we have ever had and for decades and have no path to we love to see it.” g citizenship, she said.

Pacquiao ‘ready’ to fight Mayweather...

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fight against …” said Pacquiao before Sakakibara quipped: “Floyd Mayweather.” “Floyd Mayweather, yeah. I thought you didn’t want me to say that. But I’m excited for that. Thank you for always supporting Rizin, and thank you Sakakibarasan,” he added. Both Pacquiao and Rizin didn’t disclose the full details of their possible rematch as Mayweather’s camp has yet to respond to the

announcement as of posting time. The Pacquiao-Mayweather’s bout was held in May 2015, which broke the pay-per-view records. Mayweather beat Pacquiao by unanimous decision and unified the World Boxing Association, World Boxing Council, and World Boxing Organization welterweight championships. The American boxer hung his glove unbeaten in 50 bouts in 2017, while Pacquiao retired three years ago when he decided

No Filipino hurt in magnitude 7.5 quake...

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Filipinos have transferred to temporary shelters. However, she said that due to damaged roads and bridges other Filipinos have opted to stay in their homes rather than transfer to evacuation centers. The ambassador said the earthquake was also felt in Tokyo “but it is quite a distance” from Ishikawa because Tokyo is in central Japan. The Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Osaka and Nagoya

also reported that no Filipinos were hurt during the strong earthquake. Garcia-Albano said the embassy and the PCGs are “in constant touch” with Filipino community leaders in different parts of Japan “throughout the year to prepare ourselves for this kind of event” and they “in turn inform us of their situation.” “Our Assistance to Nationals Unit and our Migrants Workers Office are active in monitoring the

Culinary Union celebrates historic union...

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in their futures. Some of you are single mothers who balance work and children at home - just like my mom. That’s why I’m so proud of your accomplishments and this recent round of negotiations and what it means for all of you, your children, your families, and their futures. You have achieved a tremendous victory for your families

and for our community.” “We had tough negotiations with the big three casino companies that took 8 months, but we fought hard and won historic wage increases that will help us to support our families and it will help future generations. By the end of this new five year contract, the average Culinary Union member will be earning about $37 an hour including our

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These state extensions of health coverage come against a backdrop of rising hostility toward migrants among Republicans. The U.S. Border Patrol apprehended nearly 1.5 million people in fiscal year 2023 after they crossed the southern border, a record. GOP presidential candidates have portrayed the border as in crisis under Biden, and dangers of illegal immigration, like increasing crime, as the nation’s top domestic concern. Simon Hankinson, a senior research fellow specializing in immigration issues with the conservative Heritage Foundation, said states would regret expanding coverage to immigrants lacking permanent legal residency because of the cost. Illinois, he noted, recently paused enrollment in its program over financial concerns. “We need to share resources with people who contribute to society and not have people take benefits for those who have not contributed, as I don’t see how the math would work in the long run,” Hankinson said. “Otherwise, you create an incentive for people to come and get free stuff.” Most adults lacking authorization work, accounting for about 5% of the U.S. labor force, according to the Pew Research Center. The state with the most unauthorized residents with state-provided health insurance is California, which currently covers about 655,000 immigrants without regard for their legal status. In January, it will expand coverage to people ages 26-49 regardless of their immigration status, benefiting an estimated 700,000 additional Californians. Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, D.C., and Washington state also provide full coverage to some people living in the U.S. without authorization. New York and Washington state are expanding eligibility next year. Oregon, Colorado, and New Jersey in recent years began covering more than 100,000 people in total regardless of legal status. Minnesota will follow in 2025, covering an estimated 40,000 people. While states are expanding coverage to people living in the U.S. potentially without authorization, some are imposing enrollment limits to control

spending. The cost of Utah’s program is capped at $4.5 million a year, limiting enrollment to about 2,000 children. Premiums will vary based on income but cost no more than $300 a year, with preventive services covered in full. “The pandemic highlighted the need to have coverage for everybody,” said Ciriac Alvarez Valle, senior policy analyst for Voices for Utah Children, an advocacy group. “It will make a huge impact on the lives of these kids.” Without coverage, many children use emergency rooms for primary care and have little ability to afford drugs, specialists, or hospital care, she said. “I am not sure if this will open the door to adults having coverage, but it is a good step forward,” Alvarez Valle said. Colorado also limits enrollment for subsidized coverage in its program, capping it at 10,000 people in 2023 and 11,000 in 2024. The 2024 discounted slots were booked up within two days of enrollment beginning in November. Adriana Miranda was able to secure coverage both years. “You feel so much more at ease knowing that you’re not going to owe so much to the hospitals,” said Miranda, 46, who is enrolled in a private plan through OmniSalud, a program similar to the state’s Obamacare marketplace in which low-income Coloradans without legal residency can shop for plans with discounted premiums. Miranda left Mexico in 1999 to follow her two brothers to the United States. She now works at Lamar Unidos, a nonprofit immigrant rights group. Before she had health insurance, she struggled to pay for care for her diabetes and racked up thousands of dollars of debt following foot surgery, she said. Under the state program, she doesn’t pay a monthly premium due to her low income, with a $40 copay for specialist visits. “I was really happy, right? Because I was able to get it. But I know a lot of people who also have a lot of need couldn’t get it,” she said. OmniSalud covers only a small fraction of the more than 200,000 people living in Colorado without authorization, said Adam Fox, deputy director of the Colorado Consumer Health PAGE 5

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Dateline PhiliPPines

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 4-10, 2024

5

HONEYMOON PERIOD OVER?

Satisfaction with Marcos, Sara down by Janvic Mateo Philstar.com

MANILA — Even though they still enjoy the approval of the majority, satisfaction with President Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte dropped by double digits in several polls conducted last year. A year into the new administration, which was elected by a landslide in the 2022 elections, Filipinos are also largely dissatisfied with the government’s performance in addressing the rising cost of basic commodities. In a span of one year, Marcos’ performance rating decreased by 13 points, from 78 percent in October 2022 to 65 percent in October 2023, based on the quarterly “Tugon ng Masa” survey conducted by OCTA Research. Marcos’ performance rating slightly went up to 80 percent in March, before dropping to 71 percent in July and 65 percent in October. Comparing the October 2022 and October 2023 surveys, Marcos’ approval went down significantly across areas, with a drop of 26 percentage points among respondents in Mindanao (from 85 percent to 59 percent). Duterte, meanwhile, suffered a 10-point drop in her performance rating, from 80 percent in October 2022 to 70 percent in October 2023. It went up to as high as 84 percent in March. As of October 2023, the vice president’s lowest approval ratings were among respondents from balance Luzon and Metro Manila at 62 percent and 63 percent, respectively (down from 71 percent and 79 percent, respectively, in the October 2022 survey). The same is true with Pulse Asia’s “Ulat ng Bayan” survey,

which showed Marcos’ approval rating dropping from 80 percent in June 2023 to 65 percent in September 2023. Duterte’s approval rating, meanwhile, dropped from 84 percent to 73 percent. In terms of trust, Marcos suffered a 14-point decrease from 85 percent to 71 percent. Duterte’s trust rating dropped from 87 percent to 75 percent. Polling firm Social Weather Stations (SWS) had yet to release its survey results on public satisfaction with government officials as of late last year. The most recent available survey, conducted in December 2022, showed that 75 percent of respondents were satisfied with Marcos. Urgent concerns Various polls also showed that inflation remains the most urgent concern among Filipinos. Throughout the year, the Marcos administration consistently received low approval score for its efforts to address the rising cost of basic commodities. Based on OCTA surveys, satisfaction with the government in managing inflation went down from 35 percent in March to just 14 percent in October. Meanwhile, dissatisfaction increased from 36 percent to 64 percent. Out of the 24 issues included in the latest survey, the government received approval of less than a majority on eight issues, up from just two issues in the March survey. These included reducing poverty and hunger, fighting graft and corruption, reducing the amount of taxes, controlling population growth, stopping illegal drugs and ensuring food security. Providing quality basic and tertiary education and building

public infrastructure obtained the highest approval ratings among the selected issues, although these also went down by around 10 points compared to the March survey. Meanwhile, the September 2023 survey conducted by Pulse Asia showed 74 percent of the respondents identifying inflation as among their most urgent national concern, up 11 points from 63 percent in June 2023. It was followed by increasing the pay of workers, creating more jobs, reducing poverty and fighting graft and corruption. Right direction? For respondents of the OCTA surveys, more Filipinos still think that the country is headed in the right direction, although the most recent survey showed a decreasing trend. From 72 percent in July 2023, only 62 percent said that the country is headed in the right direction in the October 2023 survey. It was 76 percent in March 2023 and 85 percent in October 2022. Those who think the country is headed in the wrong direction increased from six percent in October 2022 to 20 percent in October 2023. Still, personal optimism remains high. The latest SWS survey, conducted from Sept. 28 to Oct. 1, showed that 48 percent of the respondents expect a better quality of life within a year, almost similar to the 46 percent obtained in a similar survey conducted in June 2023. The number of those who expect their lives to worsen in the next 12 months was only six percent, from five percent in the previous survey. Some 40 percent said it would stay the same, down from 44 percent. g

States expand health coverage for immigrants... PAGE 4 Initiative. But starting in 2025, all low-income children will be able to be covered by the state’s Medicaid or the related Children’s Health Insurance Program regardless of immigration status. “There is a growing acknowledgement that people regard-

less of their immigration status are part of the community and should have access to health care in a regular, reliable manner,” Fox said. “If they don’t, it adds costs and trauma to the health systems and communities.” (Phil Galewitz/KFF Health News) KFF Health News senior audio

producer Zach Dyer contributed to this report. KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces indepth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.

ENGINE CHECK. A driver checks the engine of his passenger jeepney in a terminal in Jordan Plains, Sta. Monica in Quezon City on Wednesday, Jan. 3. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has allowed traditional jeepney operators and drivers who failed to join the government’s Public Utility Vehicle modernization program to operate beyond the Dec. 31, 2023 consolidation deadline but only in routes that have few consolidated units. PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

SC approves procedural rules on anti-terror law MANILA — The Supreme Court on Monday, January 1 said it has finalized the set of procedural rules guiding all petitions and applications related to the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, which will take effect on January 15. In a statement, the High Court said that the approved rules will cover all petitions and applications related to detentions without judicial warrants of arrest, surveillance orders, freeze orders, travel restrictions, designations, proscriptions and other court issuances meted out in the implementation of the anti-terrorism law. These guidelines will apply to all individuals or groups who “seek to obtain judicial relief from their designation as terrorist by the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) and the issuance of any freeze order by the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) as a result of such designation.” According to the rules, the CA (Court of Appeals) can only issue a preliminary order of proscription within 72 hours of receiving a verified petition

if the petitioner has sufficiently established probable cause that the order is necessary to prevent terrorism. This order allows the AMLC to investigate and freeze the assets of the accused. The CA then holds hearings and decides on the petition within three months. If clear and convincing evidence is presented, a permanent order of proscription is issued for three years. Law enforcement personnel must also first obtain a written order from the CA before they can conduct surveillance on individuals associated with terrorism and secretly monitor and collect information related to their communication and activities. The rules specify the grounds, content, and effectiveness of such surveillance orders. Under the rules, individuals suspected of terrorism can be arrested and detained without a warrant for a limited period as provided by the Revised Penal Code. The ATC can extend this period for up to 14 days, and a designated Regional Trial Court can approve an additional 10

days. The arrested individuals must be informed of their rights, and any form of torture or cruel treatment is prohibited. Procedures for handling classified evidence related to national security and state secrets are also established under the guidelines. Additionally, when vulnerable groups like the elderly, pregnant women, persons with disabilities, and children are involved, a guardian ad litem may be appointed to protect their rights. Prior to its passage in 2020, the anti-terrorism law was widely contested by civil society and the government’s own human rights commission largely due to its loose definition of terrorism, which raised fears that peaceful dissent and legitimate expressions of opposition could be unjustly labeled as terrorist activities. After several petitions to nullify the entire law, the High Court in 2021 struck down just two parts that included the overbroad definition of terrorism and the second mode of tagging individuals or groups as terrorists. (Philstar.com)

6

JANUARY 4-10, 2024 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

OPINION

Continuing challenges

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FEATURES

THE year 2023 opened with bad news for the country: chaos at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Improving public infrastructure is a continuing challenge for the government. The inadequacy of infrastructure continues to be among the disincentives to investments, along with hindrances to ease of doing business. These are problems that cannot be cured by Charter change, which the House of Representatives wants to revive this year. One bright spot for the year was the end of the COVID pandemic, as declared by the World Health Organization. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continued, however, and the war between Israel and Hamas is threatening to become a wider conflict. As in other countries, global developments have affected the Philippines in its continuing efforts to recover from the pandemic. Supply chain disruptions pushed up food and fuel costs, restraining economic growth. Taming inflation – consistently seen as the weak point of the Marcos administration – remains a challenge for the government in the new year. In November, President Marcos finally decided to drop his post as agriculture secretary and hand it over to fishing magnate Francisco Tiu-Laurel. With El Niño seen to intensify in the coming months, Laurel has his work cut out for him. The past year also saw the creation of the controversial Maharlika Investment Fund. Discussions continue on the exact nature of what is supposed to be a sovereign wealth fund – the country’s first – which is facing a legal challenge before the Supreme Court. Education is in crisis, as indicated in the results of the 2022 Program for International Student Assessment, in which Filipino 15-year-olds ranked in the bottom 10 in math, science and reading. The

secretary of education, meanwhile, is herself undergoing a crisis of sorts, with her loss of P650 million in secret funds for 2024 and a widening rift within the UniTeam. The past year gave human rights groups some reasons to rejoice: Leila de Lima was freed, and the government is studying cooperation with the International Criminal Court in its probe of the bloody war on drugs launched by Rodrigo Duterte. Exploratory talks are on for the possible resumption of formal peace negotiations with communist rebels. But there is disagreement among civil libertarians on the use of state power against Duterte and his favored broadcasting network, SMNI. And impunity was again highlighted in March in the massacre of 10 people led by Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo, with accused brains, expelled congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr., still beyond the reach of the law. Another continuing challenge for the government this year is dealing with the threat posed by China in the West Philippine Sea. Surveys have shown that most Filipinos support the Marcos administration’s response to Chinese aggression. Despite the daunting challenges, surveys show that Filipinos are again greeting the new year with high optimism. A happy New Year to all! (Philstar.com)

Editorial

Looking to a great 2024 for the Philippines

Go Negosyo Pilipinas Angat Lahat! JOEY CONCEPCION IT is my opinion that one of the attributes of a successful businessman is a strong sense of ownership of the enterprise. They are hands-on when it comes to running their businesses. This is not to say that they micro-manage; that is counterproductive because it slows down the decision-making process and undermines the confidence of delegates. I am talking about the strong sense of responsibility they have for the future of their business. I see the same thing in the country’s economic team. They have demonstrated throughout their careers the same devotion to government service a business owner shows to his own company. They have taken on the challenge of seeing to the turnaround of the country’s economic fortunes, to make sure that the Philippines is no longer the laggard of the Asian economies. What gives me optimism is the fact that the president, like a good leader, knows how to delegate. He runs the country like a company. As the head of a company myself, I recognize

that I am no expert in all aspects of the business; that is why I hire people who are. In the president’s case, he has assembled a very competent and well-respected economic team – among them Fred Pascual at the DTI, Arsenio Balisacan at the NEDA and Ben Diokno at the DOF. They are veterans of several administrations and various economic cycles. He has also wisely decided that he needed someone to align all the efforts and catalyze into action the plans for the country’s economic development. For this job, he chose Deck Go to become the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs. It will be Deck’s job to ensure the smooth integration and implementation of the government’s investment and economic policies and programs. This comes at a good time because headwinds are tapering. At the height of the Russia-Ukraine war, the talk was all about the skyrocketing prices of commodities. But look at things now: commodity prices are down and consumer spending is up. Forex remittances continue to be a driver toward the last quarter of 2023. OFWs are a formidable force and that is why

THE Philippines is a land of extreme paradoxes, cutting across every major dimension of our collective lives. Ours is a nation that has had the deepest encounter with liberal republicanism among all Asian nations, dating back to the 1812 Cádiz Constitution. Yet, we have elected the most ruthlessly illiberal leaders into power. We suffered over three centuries of subjugation under Western empires, yet we can’t help looking to the West as our proverbial knight in shining armor. Ours is arguably the most Westernized nation in Asia, yet our political and economic systems are positively pre-modern. We have had almost a century of education

we at Go Negosyo pour so much effort into enticing them to put up businesses here. They, much like foreign investors, need to be reassured that competent people are at the helm, and that the Philippine economy remains resilient. This is a valuable lesson we business veterans try to share with MSMEs. There will be headwinds, but those who are prepared will be able to sail through them. The winds blow different ways and at different times; one just needs to adjust the sails and ride it out. The important thing is to have the fortitude and the knowledge to power through the difficulties. While there are things that are beyond our control, like the weather and war, things eventually return to normal and settle down. We saw that in the prices of wheat and sugar. We know this first-hand in RFM, when, after commodity prices skyrocketed, they reached a peak and started coming down – enough to restore our margins and improve our profits. With stable prices and a sense of stability restoring confidence, businesses can move on and even invest in expansion, creating jobs for more people. With this confidence among the bigger companies, brisk

business among the MSMEs cannot be far behind. Sari-sari stores, for example, benefit from stronger consumer goods companies as a robust logistics system and competition among the big manufacturers benefit them in terms of more competitive prices and retailer incentives. This is why big corporations keep a close eye on the men and women at the helm of the country’s economy. When we feel that the president has chosen well, we are confident in the decisions they make. I believe this also manifests in how well the PSAC (Private Sector Advisory Council) is working together. The PSAC was set up early in the president’s term to advise the president on jobs, health, digitalization, infrastructure, agriculture and tourism. Today we are seeing the synergy growing and maturing. Our team in the jobs sector, all fellow top businessmen, have gotten into the groove of things and we are all fully engaged in the job at hand. For some of us, the PSAC tasks go beyond recommendatory and extend into execution. I, for example, have Go Negosyo and the MSMED Council, and the PSAC Jobs recommended the creation of the Private Sector

Jobs & Skills Corp. (PCORP) to create a skilled workforce. These are all initiatives of the private sector. Nobody told them to do it. But being in the private sector has taught us a lesson or two: every project must be seen to its completion. To get things done, you don’t stop at giving recommendations; instead, you have to be part of the solution. And to make sure things are sustained, you build the structures that make it possible – even easy – to implement. These are real-world solutions acquired through years of practice and even mistakes. Proposals are only as good as the paper they’re written on; follow-through is the key. And this is where that sense of ownership I mentioned earlier is so important. We must all feel that we have a stake in the country’s future. Perhaps businessmen feel it more acutely because every fluctuation and every disruption is magnified and is directly quantifiable in the daily reports that we receive. Perhaps the policymakers feel the repercussions more deeply because they know where these come from and how they could have been headed off. The PSAC will play a big part in how our economic policies move forward because they

will provide support and ensure that the recommendations are implemented. I work together with the secretaries of the DTI, the DepEd and the DAR and I can say that partnership with the government is important in making sure that the program implementation pulls through as envisioned. Without this cooperation, we will all be throwing punches in the air. There are so many opportunities for the Philippines. Organizations like the ADB, the World Bank and the IMF remain optimistic and expect the country’s economy to be among the fastest-growing in the region. The numbers show that we are experiencing broadbased growth, and a young, digital-savvy population will be our edge. Opportunities are with us, but we have to stay confident and reject the pessimism. The government cannot do it alone. We in the private sector must be there alongside them because we are all in this together. With teamwork, 2024 will be a great year. (Philstar.com) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

2024: Marcos’ moment of truth?

Horizons

RICHARD HEYDARIAN

ManilaTimes.net photo

in the global lingua franca, yet our nation suffers from one of the highest rates of functional illiteracy on earth. We have been posting the fastest gross domestic product growth rates in the region, yet we suffer from one of the highest unemployment and poverty rates in Southeast Asia. Our folks often complain about corruption, the supposed mother of all evils, yet countless voters enthusiastically support rapacious political dynasties election after election. The list is long, but one of the most perplexing paradoxes in our contemporary politics is this: We have a notoriously conflict-avoidant president, and yet our political landscape is riddled with intrigue and infighting at the highest levels. By all indications, the muchvaunted “UniTeam,” which bulldozed its way through last year’s elections, is now history.

But what exactly comes next? In his first year and a half in office, President Marcos confounded both his closest allies and vilest critics by adopting a distinctly “moderate” approach to governance. He dispensed with the worst aspects of his predecessor’s policies, while also shunning any genuinely progressive agenda. Mr. Marcos has been as tough against China as he has been soft on fighting corruption. He has been as vocal on the international stage as he has been relatively quiet in dealing with media and pressing questions at home. As historian Lisandro Claudio correctly pointed out early on, the current President is, ironically, a classic post-Marcosian Filipino leader: more politician than revolutionary, more traditional than populist, and more statesmanlike than demagogic.

But, dear reader, make no mistake, the coming year will likely be the most consequential year in Mr. Marcos’ reign. Conflict avoidance has its own merits, especially on the heels of a populist catastrophe. But excessive caution invites chaos. If anything, heedfulness is often a luxury. To begin with, the President will have to make big decisions in the West Philippine Sea, where he faces stark choices. On one hand, he risks confrontation with a global superpower, which also happens to possess the world’s largest naval fleet. At the same time, Mr. Marcos can’t ignore the sentiments of the supermajority of Filipinos, who want the country to take a tougher stance against China’s bullying in our own exclusive economic zone. Mr. Marcos will need to finalize our next move on the Second Thomas Shoal, where

a major fortification effort is desperately needed to sustain our military presence, as well as in Reed Bank, where our decades-long energy exploration efforts have been thwarted by Chinese harassment. Both our territorial integrity and energy security are at stake. On the domestic front, Mr. Marcos also faces hard choices, especially in dealing with the former president and his factotums. Barely two years into his administration, there have been multiple reshuffles at the highest echelons of the national security establishment and, more recently, even rumors of coup attempts against the sole son of the former dictator. The UniTeam may be over, but Mr. Marcos will still have to deal with the powerful Duterte dynasty in one way or another. The former president has made it clear that he won’t go gently

into the night. This brings us to the third important element, namely the upcoming 2025 elections, which may end up as a prelude to nothing less than a total overhaul of our political system. There are growing indications that the ruling coalition is contemplating constitutional change. Mr. Marcos faces the historic choice of creating a new political order altogether should his coalition secure a clean sweep in the upcoming elections. Whatever choice he makes, there will be major consequences for him, his dynasty, and the Philippines. (Inquirer.net) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

*** rheydarian@inquirer.com.ph

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Karagdagang kaalaman sa Filipino (Tagalog) ay makikita rin sa website ng Lalawigan ng Clark Kagawaran ng Halalan sa: www.clarkcountynv.gov/vote.

Short-Term Early Voting Sites / Mail Ballot Drop-Off Locations Address / Cross Streets

Dates / Times

Mountain Shadows Community Center 9107 Del Webb Blvd. / Crown Ridge Dr.

Jan. 27 (Sat.) .................................... 9am-6pm

I, LORENA S. PORTILLO, the duly appointed Registrar of Voters for the County of Clark, State of Nevada, do hereby certify that the Presidential Preference Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, February 6, 2024. The polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. on said date.

Nevada State University, Rogers Student Center 1300 Nevada State Dr., Henderson

Jan. 29 (Mon.) ................................... 9am-4:30pm Jan. 31 (Wed.) ................................... 8am-5pm

WITNESS MY HAND and SEAL this 28th day of December 2023.

North Las Vegas City Hall 2250 Las Vegas Blvd. North / Civic Center Dr. Paradise Community Center 4775 S. McLeod Dr., North of E. Tropicana Ave.

Feb. 1 (Thu.) ..................................... 9am-6pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-7pm

Parkdale Recreation and Senior Center 3200 Ferndale St., North of E. Desert Inn Rd.

Jan. 29 (Mon.) ................................... 9am-6pm

Paseo Verde Library 280 S. Green Valley Pkwy. South of Paseo Verde Pkwy.

Jan. 31 (Wed.) ................................... 9am-6pm

Pearson Community Center, Room C 1625 W. Carey Ave., West of N. Martin Luther King Blvd.

Jan. 27-30 (Sat.-Tue.) ....................... 9am-6pm

Rainbow Library 3150 N. Buffalo Dr. / W. Cheyenne Ave.

Jan. 27 (Sat.) ..................................... 10am-6pm

Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) Building, Room 108 600 S. Grand Central Pkwy. / W. Bonneville Ave.

Feb. 1 (Thu.) ...................................... 9am-6pm

Sahara West Library 9600 W. Sahara Ave. / S. Grand Canyon Dr.

Jan. 28 (Sun.) ................................... 11am-6pm Jan. 29-31 (Mon.-Wed.)..................... 10:30am-7pm

Seafood City Market 3890 S. Maryland Pkwy. / E. Katie Ave.

Jan. 27 (Sat.) ..................................... 9am-6pm

Searchlight Community Center 200 Michael Wendell Way, Searchlight

Jan. 31 (Wed.) ................................... 9am-4pm

Silver Mesa Recreation Center 4025 Allen Ln. / W. Alexander Rd.

Jan. 27 (Sat.) ..................................... 9am-6pm

Skye Canyon Community Center 10111 W. Skye Canyon Park Dr. / Skye Village Rd.

Jan. 29 (Mon.) .................................... 9am-6pm

SkyView YMCA 3050 E. Centennial Pkwy., Between Losee Rd. and N. Pecos Rd.

Feb. 1-2 (Thu.-Fri.) ............................. 9am-6pm

Solera at Anthem Community Center 2401 Somersworth Dr. / Solera Sky Dr.

Jan. 31 (Wed.) ................................... 9am-6pm

Sun City Aliante Community Center 7390 Aliante Pkwy. / Elkhorn Rd.

Jan. 28 (Sun.)..................................... 9am-5pm

Sun City Anthem Center 2450 Hampton Rd. / Anthem Pkwy.

Jan. 29-30 (Mon.-Tue.) ...................... 9am-6pm

Sun City MacDonald Ranch Community Center 2020 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy., East of S. Green Valley Pkwy.

Feb. 1 (Thu.) ...................................... 9am-6pm

Sun City Mesquite 1350 Flat Top Mesa Dr., Mesquite

Jan. 27 (Sat.) ..................................... 9am-6pm

UNLV Lied Library E. Harmon Ave., East of University Center Dr.

Jan. 29 (Mon.) ................................... 9:30am-5pm

Whitney Recreation Center 5712 Missouri Ave., West of Boulder Hwy.

Jan. 28 (Sun.) .................................... 9am-6pm

Winchester Dondero Cultural Center 3130 McLeod Dr., North of E. Desert Inn Rd.

Jan. 30 (Tue.) .................................... 9am-6pm

Windmill Library 7060 W. Windmill Ln., West of S. Rainbow Blvd.

Feb. 2 (Fri.) ........................................ 10am-6pm

STATE OF NEVADA - COUNTY OF CLARK

LORENA S. PORTILLO Registrar of Voters

LIST OF CANDIDATES TO BE VOTED UPON AT THE PRESIDENTIAL PREFERENCE PRIMARY ELECTION On February 6, 2024, Nevada will have its first ever Presidential Preference Primary. Early Voting will be seven days from January 27 to February 2, 2024. Per NRS 298.600-720, added in 2021, the Clark County Election Department will conduct the PPP. Like all elections in Nevada, it will be an all-mail ballot election. In-person voting options will still be available during Early Voting and on Election Day. Only voters registered as Democratic or Republican may vote in this election. All active Clark County voters regardless of party affiliation will receive a sample ballot. However, only active voters registered as Democratic or Republican will receive a mail ballot or may vote in-person (instead of by mail) on a voting machine at any Early Voting site or Election Day vote center. The Democratic party candidates that will be on the ballot are:

CANDIDATES FOR PARTISAN OFFICES PRESIDENT FOUR YEAR TERM DEMOCRATIC PARTY Biden, Jr., Joseph R. Cornejo, Gabriel Crystalroc, Superpayaseria Foutz, Brent Haywood, John Leon, Stephen Alan Lozada, Frankie Lyons, Stephen Palmer, Jason Michael Perez-Serrato, Armando “Mando” Picard, Donald Prascak, Mark R. Williamson, Marianne

PRESIDENT FOUR YEAR TERM REPUBLICAN PARTY Castro, John Anthony Fulkerson, Heath V. Haley, Nikki R. Kjornes, Donald Pence, Mike Scott, Tim Singh, Hirsh V.

Presidential Preference Primary Election Early Voting Sites / Mail Ballot Drop-Off Locations January 27 (Saturday) to February 2 (Friday), 2024 Long-Term Early Voting Sites / Mail Ballot Drop-Off Locations Address / Cross Streets

Dates / Times

Arroyo Market Square, EVENT TENT Parking Lot Near The Men’s Wearhouse 7225 Arroyo Crossing Pkwy. Near CC-215 / S. Rainbow Blvd.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................. 9am-7pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-8pm

Blue Diamond Crossing, EVENT TENT Parking Lot Between Target and Kohl’s 4100 Blue Diamond Rd. / Hinson St.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-7pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-8pm

Cambridge Recreation Center 3930 Cambridge St. Between E. Flamingo Rd. and E. Katie Ave.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-6pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-7pm

Centennial Hills – Thunderbird Park, EVENT TENT 6105 N. Durango Dr. Between W. Centennial Pkwy. and W. Tropical Pkwy.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-7pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-8pm

7

Election Day Vote Centers / Mail Ballot Drop-Off Locations for the Presidential Preference Primary Election Day, Tuesday, February 6, 2024 Vote from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. NAME

ADDRESS

Manch, J. E. Elem.

4351 N. Lamont St., LV 89115

Allen, Dean Elem.

8680 W. Hammer Ln., LV 89149

155 E. Paradise Hills Dr., HEN 89002

Arroyo Market Square, Near The Men’s Wearhouse*

Mannion, Jack and Terry Mid. Sch.

7225 Arroyo Crossing Pkwy., LV 89113

Meadows Mall, Near Round1, 1st Floor

4300 Meadows Ln., LV 89107

Bailey, Sister Robert Joseph Elem.

4525 Jimmy Durante Bl., LV 89122

Mendoza, John Elem.

2000 S. Sloan Ln., LV 89142

2500 N. Hollywood Bl., LV 89156

Mesquite Jimmie Hughes Campus, Suite 1

150 N. Yucca St., Mesquite 89027

Craig Ranch Regional Park, EVENT TENT South of Baseball Diamonds, Parking Lot 628 W. Craig Rd. / Revere St.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-7pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-8pm

Deer Springs Town Center, EVENT TENT Parking Lot Near Home Depot 640 E. Deer Springs Way / North 5th St.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-7pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-8pm

Bailey, William H. Mid. Sch. Bass, John Elem.

10377 Rancho Destino Rd., LV 89183

Desert Breeze Community Center 8275 Spring Mountain Rd. / S. Cimarron Rd.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-6pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-7pm

Blue Diamond Crossing Ctr., Between Target & Kohl’s*

Miller, Bob Mid. Sch.

2400 Cozy Hill Cir., HEN 89052

4100 Blue Diamond Rd., LV 89139

Mirabelli Community Ctr.

6200 Hargrove Ave., LV 89107

Galleria at Sunset Kohl’s Court, 1st Floor 1300 W. Sunset Rd., East of N. Stephanie St.

Jan. 27 (Sat.) .................................... 11am-8pm Jan. 28 (Sun.) ................................... 11am-6pm Jan. 29-Feb. 1 (Mon.-Thu.) ............... 11am-7pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 11am-8pm

Boulder City Recreation Ctr.

900 Arizona St., Boulder City 89005

Moapa Community Ctr.

1340 E. State Hwy. 168, Moapa 89025

Bozarth, Henry and Evelyn Elem.

7431 Egan Crest Dr., LV 89166

Moapa Tribal Administration Building

1 Lincoln St., Moapa 89025

Bridger, Jim Mid. Sch.

2505 N. Bruce St., NLV 89030

Las Vegas Athletic Club – North (Decatur) EVENT TENT, Parking Lot 6050 N. Decatur Blvd. / W. Tropical Pkwy.

Moapa Valley Community Ctr.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-7pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-8pm

Brown, B. Mahlon J.H.S.

307 Cannes St., HEN 89015

320 N. Moapa Valley Bl., Overton 89040

Bunkerville Community Ctr.

150 Virgin St., Bunkerville, 89007

Molasky, Irwin and Susan Mid. Sch.

7801 W. Gilmore Ave., LV 89129

Las Vegas Athletic Club – Northwest (Rainbow), EVENT TENT Parking Lot, 1725 N. Rainbow Blvd. South of W. Lake Mead Blvd.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-7pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-8pm

Burkholder, Lyal Mid. Sch.

355 W. Van Wagenen St., HEN 89015

Monaco, Mario C. and Joann Mid. Sch.

1870 N. Lamont St., LV 89115

Cadwallader, Ralph L. Mid. Sch.

7775 Elkhorn Rd., LV 89131

Moore, William Elem.

491 N. Lamb Bl., LV 89110

Meadows Mall Near Round1, 1st Floor 4300 Meadows Ln. / S. Valley View Blvd.

Jan. 27 (Sat.) .................................... 11am-8pm Jan. 28 (Sun.) ................................... 11am-6pm Jan. 29-Feb. 1 (Mon.-Thu.) ............... 11am-7pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 11am-8pm

Cambridge Recreation Ctr.

3930 Cambridge St., LV 89119

Mountain Shadows Community Ctr.

9107 Del Webb Bl., LV 89134

Canarelli, Lawrence and Heidi Mid. Sch.

7808 S. Torrey Pines Dr., LV 89139

Mountains Edge Regional Park, Parking Lot*

8101 W. Mountains Edge Pkwy., LV 89178

Cashman, James Mid. Sch.

4622 W. Desert Inn Rd., LV 89102

Centennial Hills – Thunderbird Park*

Nellis Crossing Shopping Ctr., Near Target*

1250 S. Nellis Blvd., LV 89104

6105 N. Durango Dr., LV 89149

Clark County Building Department

North Las Vegas City Hall 4701 W. Russell Rd., LV 89118

2250 Las Vegas Blvd. North, NLV 89030

Ober, D’Vorre and Hal Elem.

3035 Desert Marigold Ln., LV 89135

Clark County FairgroundsFine Arts Building

1301 Whipple Ave., Logandale 89021

O'Callaghan, Mike Mid. Sch.

1450 Radwick Dr., LV 89110

Coleman Senior Ctr.

2100 Bonnie Ln., LV 89156

O'Roarke, Thomas J. Elem.

8455 O'Hare Rd., LV 89143

Coronado High School

1001 Coronado Center Dr., HEN 89052

Paradise Community Ctr.

4775 McLeod Dr., LV 89121

Cortney, Francis H. Mid. Sch.

5301 E. Hacienda Ave., LV 89122

Parkdale Recreation and Senior Ctr.

3200 Ferndale St., LV 89121

Cox, David Elem.

280 Clark Dr., HEN 89074

Pearson Community Ctr.

1625 W. Carey Ave., NLV 89032

628 W. Craig Rd., NLV 89032

Rainbow Library

3150 N. Buffalo Dr., LV 89128

1900 W. Deer Springs Wy., NLV 89084

Rancho High School

1900 Searles Ave., LV 89101

Reed, Doris Elem.

2501 Winwood St., LV 89108 600 S. Grand Central Pkwy., LV 89106

Mountain Crest Community Center 4701 N. Durango Dr., South of W. Lone Mountain Rd.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-6pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-7pm

Mountain’s Edge Regional Park, Parking Lot, EVENT TENT 8101 W. Mountains Edge Pkwy. East of S. Durango Dr.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-7pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-8pm

Nellis Crossing Shopping Center, EVENT TENT Parking Lot Near Target 1250 S. Nellis Blvd. / E. Charleston Blvd.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-7pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-8pm

Silver Springs Recreation Center 1951 E. Silver Springs Pkwy. East of N. Green Valley Pkwy.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-6pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-7pm

Silverado Ranch Park, Parking Lot, EVENT TENT 9855 Gilespie St. / E. Silverado Ranch Blvd.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-7pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-8pm

Veterans Memorial Community Center 101 N. Pavilion Center Dr., North of Alta Dr.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-6pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-7pm

Walnut Recreation Center 3075 N. Walnut Rd., South of E. Cheyenne Ave.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-6pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-7pm

West Flamingo Senior Center 6255 W. Flamingo Rd. / S. Jones Blvd.

Jan. 27-Feb. 1 (Sat.-Thu.) ................ 9am-6pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-7pm

Short-Term Early Voting Sites / Mail Ballot Drop-Off Locations

Open for a Limited Number of Days Between January 27 and February 2, 2024 Short-Term Early Voting Sites / Mail Ballot Drop-Off Locations Address / Cross Streets

Dates / Times

Albertsons, Ann / Simmons

Jan. 29-30 (Mon.-Tue.)....................... 9am-6pm

Aliante Library 2400 W. Deer Springs Way, East of N. Aliante Pkwy.

Jan. 31 (Wed.)................................... 10am-7pm

Boulder City Recreation Center 900 Arizona St. / Utah St.

Jan. 27-28 (Sat.-Sun.)........................ 9am-5pm

Centennial Hills YMCA 6601 N. Buffalo Dr. / Sky Pointe Dr.

Feb. 1-2 (Thu.-Fri.)............................. 9am-6pm

Chinatown Plaza 4255 Spring Mountain Rd. / Wynn Rd.

Jan. 28 (Sun.) .................................... 10am-6pm

Craig Ranch Regional Park* Cram, Brian and Teri Mid. Sch. Deer Springs Town Center, Near Home Depot*

640 E. Deer Springs Way, NLV 89084

Derfelt, Herbert Elem.

1900 S. Lisa Ln., LV 89117

Regional Transportation Commission (RTC)

Desert Breeze Community Ctr.

8275 Spring Mountain Rd., LV 89117

Sahara West Library

9600 W. Sahara Ave., LV 89117

Desert Oasis High School

6600 W. Erie Ave., LV 89141

Sandy Valley School

1420 Pearl Ave., Sandy Valley 89019

Desert Pines High School

3800 Harris Ave., LV 89110

Saville, Anthony Mid. Sch.

8101 N. Torrey Pines Dr., LV 89131

Desert Vista Community Ctr.

10360 Sun City Bl., LV 89134

Sawyer, Grant Mid. Sch.

5450 Redwood St., LV 89118

1960 Ferrel St., LV 89106

Schofield, Jack L. Mid. Sch.

8625 Spencer St., LV 89123

Dooley, John Elem.

1940 Chickasaw Dr., HEN 89002

Schorr, Steve Elem.

11420 Placid St., LV 89183

Doolittle Community Ctr.

1950 J St., LV 89106

Searchlight Community Ctr.

200 M. Wendell Wy., Searchlight 89046

East Las Vegas Community Ctr.

250 N. Eastern Ave., LV 89101

Sedway, Marvin Mid. Sch.

3465 Englestad St., NLV 89032

East Las Vegas Library

2851 E. Bonanza Rd., LV 89101

Shadow Ridge High School

5050 Brent Ln., LV 89131

Eldorado High School

1139 Linn Ln., LV 89110

Silver Springs Recreation Ctr.

1951 E. Silver Springs Pkwy., HEN 89074

Ellis, Robert and Sandy Elem.

3200 Artella Ave., HEN 89044

Silverado Ranch Park

9855 Gilespie St., LV 89183

Faiss, Wilbur and Theresa Mid. Sch.

9525 W. Maule Ave., LV 89148

Solera at Anthem Community Ctr.

2401 Somersworth Dr., HEN 89044

Fertitta, Frank and Victoria Mid. Sch.

9905 W. Mesa Vista Ave., LV 89148

Stevens, Josh Elem.

550 Dave Wood Cir., HEN 89011

6635 Cougar Ave., LV 89139

Stupak Community Ctr.

251 W. Boston Ave., LV 89102

Forbuss, Robert L. Elem.

8601 S. Grand Canyon Dr., LV 89178

Sun City Aliante Community Ctr.

7390 Aliante Pkwy., NLV 89084

French, Doris Elem.

3235 E. Hacienda Ave., LV 89120

Sun City Anthem Community Ctr.

2450 Hampton Rd., HEN 89052

Sun City Macdonald Ranch Community Ctr.

2020 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy., HEN 89012

Sun City Mesquite

1350 Flat Top Mesa Dr., Mesquite 89034

Swainston, Theron Mid. Sch.

3500 W. Gilmore Ave., NLV 89032

Tarkanian, Lois and Jerry Mid. Sch.

5800 W. Pyle Ave., LV 89141

Tarr, Sheila Elem.

9400 W. Gilmore Ave., LV 89129

Tobler, R. E. Elem.

6510 W. Buckskin Ave., LV 89108

Valley High School

2839 Burnham Ave., LV 89109 215 Antelope Ridge Dr., LV 89138

Detwiler, Ollie Elem.

Fine, Mark L. Elem.

Coleman Senior Center 2100 Bonnie Ln. / E. Lake Mead Blvd.

Feb. 2 (Fri.) ........................................ 9am-7pm

CSN Henderson Campus, Student Union 700 College Dr. / Heather Dr.

Jan. 30 (Tue.) .................................... 9am-4:30pm

Galleria at Sunset, Kohl’s Court, 1st Floor

1300 W. Sunset Rd., HEN 89014

CSN North Las Vegas Campus, Tyrone Thompson Student Union 3200 E. Cheyenne Ave. / Campus Dr.

Feb. 1-2 (Thu.-Fri.)............................. 8am-6pm

Galloway, Fay Elem.

701 Skyline Rd., HEN 89002

CSN West Charleston Campus, Student Union 6375 W. Charleston Blvd. / Community College Dr.

Jan. 31 (Wed.).................................... 8am-6pm

Goolsby, Judy and John Elem.

11175 W. Desert Inn Rd., LV 89135

Gray, R. Guild Elem.

2825 S. Torrey Pines Dr., LV 89146

Green Valley High School

460 N. Arroyo Grande Blvd., HEN 89014

Guinn, Kenny C. Mid. Sch.

4150 S. Torrey Pines Dr., LV 89103

Hayes, Keith and Karen Elem.

9620 W. Twain Ave., LV 89147

Henderson City Hall

240 S. Water St., HEN 89015

Desert Vista Community Center 10360 Sun City Blvd. / Thomas W. Ryan Blvd.

Jan. 30-31 (Tue.-Wed.)....................... 9am-6pm

Doolittle Community Center 1950 J St. / W. Lake Mead Blvd.

Jan. 31-Feb. 1 (Wed.-Thu.)................ 9am-6pm Feb. 2 (Fri.)........................................ 9am-7pm

East Las Vegas Community Center 250 N. Eastern Ave. / Stewart Ave.

Jan. 31-Feb. 1 (Wed.-Thu.)................ 9am-6pm Feb. 2 (Fri.)........................................ 9am-7pm

East Las Vegas Library 2851 E. Bonanza Rd., East of N. Eastern Ave.

Jan. 27-28 (Sat.-Sun.)....................... 10am-6pm Feb. 2 (Fri.)........................................10am-7pm

Heritage Park Senior Facility

300 S. Racetrack Rd., HEN 89015

Vassiliadis, Billy and Rosemary Elem.

Historic Fifth Street School

401 S. 4th St., LV 89101

Vegas Verdes Elem.

4000 El Parque Ave., LV 89102

Enterprise Library 8310 S. Las Vegas Blvd. / E. Shelbourne Ave.

Jan. 27-28 (Sat.-Sun.)....................... 10am-6pm

Hollywood Recreation Ctr.

1650 S. Hollywood Bl., LV 89142

101 N. Pavilion Center Dr., LV 89144

Green Valley Library 2797 N. Green Valley Pkwy. / E. Sunset Rd.

Jan. 30 (Tue.) ................................... 10am-6pm

Indian Springs Community Ctr.

715 W. Gretta Ln., Indian Springs 89018

Veterans Memorial Community Ctr. Walnut Community Ctr.

3075 N. Walnut Rd., LV 89115

Johnson, Walter Mid. Sch.

7701 Ducharme Ave., LV 89145

Ward, Gene Elem.

1555 E. Hacienda Ave., LV 89119

Keller, Duane Mid. Sch.

301 N. Fogg St., LV 89110

Whitney Recreation Ctr.

5712 Missouri Ave., LV 89122

Kesterson, Lorna Elem.

231 Bailey Island Dr., HEN 89074

Wiener, Louis Jr. Elem.

450 E. Eldorado Ln., LV 89123

King, Martha Elem.

888 Adams Bl., Boulder City 89005

Williams, Wendell Elem.

1030 J St., LV 89106

Knudson, K. O. Mid. Sch.

2400 Atlantic St., LV 89104

Winchester Dondero Cultural Ctr.

3130 McLeod Dr., LV 89121

Las Vegas Athletic Club-North (Decatur), Parking Lot*

6050 N. Decatur Bl., NLV 89031

Wolfe, Eva Elem.

4027 W. Washburn Rd., NLV 89031

Woodbury, C. W. Mid. Sch.

3875 E. Harmon Ave., LV 89121

Henderson City Hall 240 S. Water St. / W. Basic Rd.

Jan. 29-Feb. 1 (Mon.-Thu.)................ 7:30am-5:30pm

Henderson Executive Airport 3500 Executive Terminal Dr., South of St. Rose Pkwy.

Feb. 1 (Thu.) ..................................... 9am-6pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-7pm

Heritage Park Senior Facility 300 S. Racetrack Rd. / Burkholder Blvd.

Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 9am-7pm

Hollywood Recreation Center 1650 S. Hollywood Blvd. Between E. Sahara Ave. and E. Charleston Blvd.

Jan. 27-28 (Sat.-Sun.) ....................... 9am-6pm

Laughlin Library 2840 S. Needles Hwy., Laughlin

Feb. 1 (Thu.) ..................................... 10am-7pm Feb. 2 (Fri.) ....................................... 10am-6pm

Mesquite Jimmie Hughes Campus, Suite 1 150 N. Yucca St., Mesquite

Jan. 28-29 (Sun.-Mon.)....................... 9am-6pm

Moapa Valley Comm. Ctr. 320 N. Moapa Valley Blvd., Overton

Jan. 30 (Tue.) ................................... 10am-6pm

Las Vegas Athletic ClubNorthwest (Rainbow), Parking Lot*

1725 N. Rainbow Bl., LV 89108

Laughlin Library

2840 S. Needles Hwy., Laughlin 89028

WITNESS MY HAND and SEAL this 28th day of December 2023.

Lawrence, Clifford J.H.S.

4410 S. Juliano Rd., LV 89147

Leavitt, Justice Myron Mid. Sch.

LORENA S. PORTILLO Registrar of Voters

4701 Quadrel St., LV 89129

Long, Walter V. Elem.

2000 S. Walnut Rd., LV 89104

Published: December 28, 2023, and January 4, 2024 Las Vegas Asian Journal

8

JANUARY 4-10, 2024 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678

January 4, 2024

VEGAS&STYLE JOURNAL

INSIDE

LIFESTYLE • CONSUMER GUIDE • COMMUNITY • MARKETPLACE

Fil-Am human rights activist MIFF unveils official poster; stars and crowned Miss Earth USA filmmakers invited to come from Manila by Nimfa Rueda Inquirer.net

LOS ANGELES – Beatrice “Bea” Millan-Windorski, a Filipino American university student who describes herself as a human rights activist, was crowned Miss Earth USA 2024 at the national pageant finals held at the Rosen Centre in Orlando, Florida on Sunday. Millan-Windorski, representing Wisconsin, became the first Fil-Am to hold the title. She is from Whitefish Bay, Milwaukee County in Wisconsin. Her maternal grandmother Marcela Buenavista Millan lives in San Juan, San Fernando in La Union. She went to Whitefish Bay High School in Whitefish Bay. She became interested in environmental advocacy as a young girl while visiting her family in the Philippines. Millan-Windorski is a student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, with a double major in International Relations and History. She is set to graduate with honors in May this year. “Education is incredibly important to me,” she said in a Miss Earth USA video. “My lola or grandmother was the first in her village to attend university.” Millan-Windorski said everyone in her grandmother’s hometown thought her family was making a mistake by selling their farmland to support her education, she added. Her grandmother earned a nursing degree and migrated to the United States. “She made sure to emphasize to me from my young age that an education is never wasted on a woman,” she said. The Fil-Am beauty queen has completed a fellowship with the Philippine Embassy and an in-

Beatrice “Bea” Millan-Windorski, who describes herself as a human rights activist, was crowned Miss Earth USA 2024 last Sunday. Photo from Instagram/@missearthusa

ternship at the East-West Center in Washington D.C. She has conducted research on the U.S.-ASEAN relations, translated articles from Tagalog to English and wrote articles about local connections between the U.S. and communities across Southeast Asia. She often visited the Philippines and volunteered for Project CURMA or Coastal Underwater Resource Management Actions in San Juan, La Union. Project CURMA is a sea turtle conservation program that educates volunteers on avoiding plastic garbage, cleaning up

coastlines and saving turtle nests from poachers. She has described her involvement with the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP) as “the advocacy closest to my heart.” IRAP helps ensure that people fleeing from climate-related disaster have a legal path to asylum and safety. She was crowned Miss Wisconsin Earth in May 2023. Last Sunday, she competed against 52 other candidates at the Rosen Centre in Orlando. She will represent the U.S. at Miss Earth 2024 in Vietnam.

Celebrating the multi-talented Ogie Diaz

to call "pulot") of direct quotes ascribed to them. ManilaTimes.net In stark contrast, GASI's mags had well-photoJANUARY 2 marks the 54th birthday of one of graphed windows with a stronger visual appeal my very few closest friends this side of showbiz any reader's eyes could feast on. I remember — Roger Pandaan in real life or more popularly having spoken personally to Cristy the day I applied for a job as an editor. It was under a cocoknown as Ogie Diaz. No, this isn't a tribute of sorts but a bit of his- nut tree beside where her van was parked. Cristy took me to the second floor of the dutory how we crossed paths, well, as fate would plex office, made me edit a pile of manuscripts have it. It was sometime in 1990 when the morning on the spot while she watched. Having been used to newspaper work, I must edition of "Headline Manila," of which I was the entertainment editor, folded up. Since it was my confess magazine editing sounded Greek to me. first regular crack at showbiz, I felt I had to settle But it became a cushy job in no time. My fast in another outlet with regular pay although times learnings would not have been possible if it were not because of Ogie who mentored me as much then were not as hard as they are today. Compared to the tabloids, it was the fan mag- as I taught him on matters he'd graciously ask azines which were lording it over. Considered my help for. I got the job the day I applied. It was perfecta behemoth chain of publications then was the Graphic Arts (GASI) which also churned out a ly timed as the editor of the magazine (Scandals which was released every Tuesday) I got asgood number of the now-extinct komiks. Probably next to the GASI fan mags which signed to had left for good. Ogie was already one of its regulars plus he produced some of the revered names in showbiz writing was the Mariposa Publications. It was wrote the "blind item" page using a catchy, funowned by then-couple Loren Banag and Cristy ny pseudonym "Amy B. Yasis." Ogie maintained Fermin who dared to thrown down the gauntlet, columns in all five mags. His manuscripts were honestly any editor's so to speak, in the highly competitive magazine delight. He made it easier for me as the moment business. Unlike the GASI mags, those published by I got hold of his Tuesday column, all I needed to Mariposa (Gossip, Scandals, Teenstars, Scan- do was to supply the head. But wait, it wasn't exactly a blissful life at all. dals, Rumors and later Bitchy) had to painstakWhile Ogie's manuscripts were untouched and ingly make do with very little resources it had. Made as mag covers were solo shots of ce- clean, he'd flunk in the deadline department. While all manuscripts must be strictly in by lebrities on 3R, enlarged around which were graphics (from letter transfers or what we used late afternoon unless there were important events or late breakers, Ogie's would arrive the next morning. I understood it if only because he had so much on his plate. Then, Ogie was already gracing the TV and movies as a newbie in comedy. He was also making a name as showbiz talk show host. Ogie had also tried his luck at talent management. He was also running a VHS rental business shebang in his Loreto, Manila neighborhood. I bore witness to Ogie's career goings-on in those five years of my Mariposa stint until I left. While Ogie began charting his TV career in ABS-CBN, I was with a GMA weekend program as writer. There was hardly any issue despite our network affiliations. In fact, Ogie and I would get reconnected more often — at ABS-CBN mediacons, parties, reunions, random gatherings and alike. Regrettably, we barely keep tabs lately except on social media. But that is what Messenger was designed for — it keeps our communication lines open and easy to access. I need not rub this in but Ogie knows how extremely proud I am of his achievements, but more so of his being able to weather life vicissitudes and vagaries. He knows he's one person I hold dear, and vice versa. Happy New Year, 'teh. Happy 54th birthday! Here's looking forward to seeing you cradle your first grandchild. Don't you think it's about time Ogie Diaz Photo from Instagram/@ogie_diaz you became a lolo? by Ronnie CaRRasCo iii

THE inaugural Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) unveiled its official poster honoring Hilda Koronel, the festival’s Monty Manibog Lifetime Achievement Awardee (named after the late outstanding Filipino American leader), and representing the best of Philippine cinema. The poster image is made up of hundreds of stills from Koronel’s movies with Lino Brocka, including “Insiang” and “Maynila: Sa Mga Kuko ng Liwanag,” which are considered among the most important works in Philippine cinema. A closer look at the poster, designed by Elton Lugay and Adam Lang, will reveal that Brocka is beside Koronel, a detail that symbolizes the Philippines’ excellent filmmakers and talents. MIFF, whose mission is to showcase, promote and help uplift Philippine cinema, has invited the filmmakers and stars behind the 10 Metro Manila Film Festival entries which make their American premiere in the LA festival to be held from January 29 to February 2. The talents from the Philippines are invited to attend MIFF events, including Q&As and personal appearances at select screenings, at the TCL Chinese Theatres in Hollywood and the Directors Guild of America on Sunset Boulevard. The 10 films debuting in America at MIFF, including the biggest winners and most nominated in the MMFF awards ceremonies held in Quezon City last December 27, are: Jun Robles Lana’s “Becky and Badette,” starring Eugene Domingo and Pokwang; Lemuel C. Lorca’s “Broken Heart’s Trip” (Christian Bables); Nuel Naval’s “Family of Two (A Mother and Son Story)” (Sharon Cuneta and Alden Richards); Zig Dulay’s “Firefly” (Alessandra De Rossi and Euwenn Mikaell); Pepe Diokno’s “GomBurZa” (Enchong Dee, Dante Rivero and Cedrick Juan); King Palisoc’s “(K)Ampon” (Beauty Gonzalez and Derek Ramsay); Derick Cabrido’s “Mallari” (Piolo Pascual and Janella Salvador); Jason Paul Laxamana’s “Penduko” (Matteo Guidicelli and Kylie Verzosa); Mae Cruz-Alviar’s “Rewind” (Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes); and

The inaugural Manila International Film Festival’s official poster honors Hilda Koronel, the recipient of the fest’s Monty Manibog Lifetime Achievement Award. Through the image of Koronel, shown beside Lino Brocka, her acclaimed collaborator, the poster, designed by Elton Lugay and Adam Lang, celebrates Philippine cinema and its talents, MIFF’s main goal.

Conrado Peru, Rommel Penesa and Christopher de Leon’s “When I Met You in Tokyo” (Vilma Santos and Christopher de Leon). Screenings and events will be held mainly at the TCL Chinese Theatres. TCL Chinese Theatres is located on the third level of the Ovation Hollywood (formerly Hollywood & Highland), 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028. On the MIFF’s closing day on February 2, the screenings will both be at the TCL Chinese Theatres and the DGA, located at 7920 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90046. A closing night awards gala, where Koronel will receive the Monty Manibog Lifetime Achievement Award and to be graced by stars and filmmakers, is scheduled. Tickets, including bundles that

offer free tix, are now available at: https://www.eventbrite.com/ e/2024-manila-international-filmfestival-tickets-771883764117 The MIFF founders are Omen Ortiz (chairman), Ebradu Udarbe (president), Lisa Lew (executive producer), Ruben Nepales and Janet Nepales, media relations consultants, and Celia Abaya Dy, ticketing manager. Also on the MIFF team are Leo Dela Cruz, chief financial officer; Erickson Ilog, chief operations officer; Ron Ramores, chief marketing officer; Cindy Sison, consultant; and Meriden Angeles, coordinating producer. For MIFF sponsorship inquiries, contact Erickson Ilog (eilog@manilainternationalfilmfest.com) and Ron Ramores (rramores@manilainternationalfilmfest.com).

Angelica Panganiban weds Gregg Homan in US by iza iglesias ManilaTimes.net

ANGELICA Panganiban welcomed the New Year as Mrs. Homan after marrying her non-showbiz partner Gregg in Los Angeles on December 31. The 37-year-old shared the good news on her Instagram account showing photos of their simple garden wedding ceremony as captured by celebrity photographer Pat Dy. Also with them is their one-year-old daughter Amila Sabine. "123123. Patuloy na mananalig at maniniwala sa pagibig. Sa kabila ng lahat. Ang pagmamahal pa rin ang kakapitan (Continue to trust and believe in love. Despite everything. We cling to love.) Maligayang bagong taon (Happy New Year) - Mrs Angelica Panganiban Homan [heart emoji]," Panganiban wrote. The actress also reposted photos of her and Homan spending moments in fast-food restaurant

Angelica Panganiban and Gregg Homan

In-N-Out Burger wearing her white knee-length wedding dress with sneakers, while her husband looked dapper wearing the same nude tux he put on during the ceremony. The post garnered congratulatory messages from her celebrity friends Anne Curtis, Vhong Navarro, Bela Padilla, Glaiza De Castro, Luis Manzano and Iza

Photos from Instagram/@iamangelicap

Calzado, among many others. It was in a YouTube vlog titled "So, This Happened...The Proposal" released on October 8, 2022 when Panganiban revealed how Homan proposed to her during a beach vacation. The couple crossed paths in 2020 while Panganiban was working on a teleserye in Subic, where Homan lives.

Sharon shares separation, reconciliation with Kiko by Jan Milo Severo Philstar.com

"MEGASTAR" Sharon Cuneta revealed that she and husband Kiko Pangilinan briefly got separated but they are back together. During her New Year's Day Instagram Live, Sharon said that her family is just like any other. “And for the record, ain’t nothing wrong with any our brains. We good, we normal, we just got some emotions cause we real people. I love you all! Merry Christmas," she said. Sharon admitted their past separation but mentioned they have reconciled and are now on good terms. “Nag-away kami, naghiwalay kami tapos nagbati na kami, so okay na kami, okay?" she said. “That’s the meaning of all the messages I posted but I’ll clarify, the quotes, all the other posts were for people close to me that I think needed those posts. So, you always assume," she added. "Sharon and Kiko welcomed the New Year with their children, though KC Concepcion was not present. “My Frankie is here, my pretty girls are here, no

The Pangilinan family

Photo from Instagram/@reallysharoncuneta

matter what you say, they are the most beautiful girls in the world. Each one with their own brand of beauty and that includes KC," Sharon said. “Wherever you are KC, we remember you, we miss you Kristina. I love you and see you,” she added. Frankie expressed, "I love you, Ate," followed by Kiko adding, "We love you."

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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 4-10, 2024

Andrea reflects on solo Spain trip, Anne is still unstoppable grateful for ‘healing’ 2023 by KriStofer Purnell Philstar.com

YOUNG actress Andrea Brillantes reflected on the loaded past year she had highlighted by solo soul-searching trip to Spain last May. Andrea uploaded her Spain trip vlog on the last day of 2023 though she had gone much earlier in the year, citing hours of footage that required voiceover narration instead for a faster edit. The actress was initially going to be accompanied by her close friend Bea Borres but instead opted to travel on her own. “Experiencing solo travel had always been a dream of mine so I decided this was the perfect time to do it. I needed this time to myself kasi nga may pinagdadaanan ako at that time,” Andrea said, referencing her break-up to basketball player Ricci Rivero on the same month. Andrea had a tearful flight to Madrid (with a quick layover in Abu Dhabi) as she admitted to being afraid of planes, heights and turbulence, as well as experiencing nervousness in travelling alone. The actress went on guided trips to Granada — her first time commuting alone — where she misplaced her passport and wallet (but managed to get them back), Seville, Toledo and Madrid. On her free day in Madrid,

Andrea Brillantes Photo from Instagram/@blythe

Andrea visited the Bank of Spain, a nearby market, Mercado de San Miguel, and Plaza Mayor where she encountered several Filipinos, and at night partied at a famous club. “I went home by myself — oo na may mga naga-assume! — I didn’t bring anyone with me to my hotel,” Andrea adamantly clarified. The clarification likely comes after fans pointed out that fellow Kapamilya Daniel Padilla had also visited Spain in the same areas and their individual photos went viral following Daniel’s break-up with longtime partner Kathryn Bernardo. Andrea was tipped as the reason for the split, however it should be noted that Andrea and Daniel’s Spain trips were

Alden sick, tired of gender issue by Jan Milo Severo Philstar.com

KAPUSO star Alden Richards revealed that he's sick and tired of the rumors regarding his gender identity. In his interview with Toni Gonzaga, Alden said he has no time to deal about gender issues. “Tingin n’yo ganun? Fine! Tingin n’yo bading, fine. Tingin ko nga minsan 'pag may ganu'ng mga rumor, wala na bang iba?" he said. “'Yung judgment call sa gender ng mga kalalakihan sa industriya natin, ang dali. Just because of that fact. Pero ako po, parang... pupunta ba ako sa route na dahil gusto ko na naman mag-please?

“I have my life right now. I’m happy perfectly with what I have, what I’m able to do at the moment. I seize every opportunity, sayang? There’s time for that." Alden said he's glad that he has new friends now, just like Julia Montes and Coco Martin. “To the people who know me, like really know me, my friends, and right now, most especially ‘yan si Julia, Julia Montes, direk Irene (Villamor), and si Coco. Nagulat ako, with just one project, we instantly clicked. To the point na they became part of my life, and I became part of their lives," he said. “Ang sarap lang sa pakiramdam na you get to meet authentic people pa rin pala. And those people, I tend

several weeks apart. During another free night in Madrid Andrea managed to drop by the 360º Sky Bar without a reservation because a teenage Filipina invited her to join her table, spending the rest of the evening with her and a friend, and in another watched a flamenco show. Towards the end of her trip while visiting the Royal Palace of Madrid, Andrea encountered a Filipino couple who offered to take photos of her as she was alone, and at night met up with friends she learned were also in the Spanish capital. On Instagram, Andrea posted a similar video this time reflecting on 2023 which she compared to a wild roller coaster, “It’s like I was three different people this year, with everything that has happened shaping me into who I am now.” The actress noted key moments like beginning her own makeup business Lucky Beauty, getting noticed by idols like BLACKPINK and Sabrina Carpenter, attending Milan Fashion Week, and the previously mentioned solo trip to Spain. “This year, like a lot of people, I have been hurt and I have hurt, I have cried and I have laughed, I have loved and I have lost, I have been broken and repaired, I have stumbled and learned,” Andrea said. The young actress ended by describing 2023 as a year of healing that made here stronger and wiser, and hoped 2024

IN the world of Anne Curtis juggling motherhood, a flourishing career, and a vibrant social life seems like an uphill battle on a daily basis. But the 38-year-old A-Lister stands out as an epitome of grace and resilience, unleashing unstoppable energy as she ticks milestone after milestone. Her journey takes an iconic turn as she becomes the next Filipino personality to be immortalized in Madame Tussauds Hong Kong. Her wax figure will be positioned alongside Hollywood stars, a testament to her global influence and impact. In recent interviews, the multihyphenate said she can't wait to unveiled her very own wax figure. She doesn't need much practicing for such pose, judging by her first Paris Fashion Week experience last October, when she turned heads with her stunning looks while attending the runway shows of global fashion houses Loewe, Hermès, and AZ Factory. All these while she continues to endear everyone with her bubbly and down-to-earth personality

as one of the original hosts of the afternoon variety show, "It's Showtime," which recently celebrated its 14th anniversary. Not stopping there, Curtis was recognized the first celebrity in the Philippines to reach 20 million followers on Instagram, solidifying her status as one of the world's most influential icons. This achievement, which happened as she wrapped up her "Luv-Anne" US concert tour early this month — another career milestone — not only reflects her widespread popularity but also her connection with devoted fans who closely follow her journey to root for and celebrate her success. She posted on Instagram, "20 million of you here my dearest IG fam! What a way to end this LA tour. Big kisses to all of you!" The news couldn't have come at a better time, as Curtis is now the face of Smart's new Unli 5G offer that includes non-stop data to give subscribers seamless online connectivity. "Staying online puts you in the position to do more and

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Anne Curtis remains steadfast and ready for whatever the future holds. Photo from Instagram/@annecurtissmith

be unstoppable for the things you are passionate about. In my case, it empowers me to reach out to my beloved fans and share the moments, projects, and advocacies that are close to my heart — anytime and anywhere," Curtis said. In an ever-changing world, Curtis remains steadfast and ready for whatever the future holds. (ManilaTimes.net)

Claudine hopes to recover millions of pesos from ex-husband Raymart

ACTRESS Claudine Barretto revealed that she's trying to recover millions of pesos from an ex-husband. In her interview with Luis Manzano, Claudine vowed to get back the millions of pesos for her kids. “We’re talking about hundreds of millions na. Ang iniwan sa akin was P25,000. Sa isang bangko pa lang was, like, P116 million. Isang bangko pa lang 'yun. And iniwan was P25,000. And I don’t know kung bakit kahit na or whatever, dapat sinasabihan ka ng bangko, 'di ba?" Claudine said. “Ang ibinalik lang niya sa akin nu’n, during that time, was P7 million. We were still together. Kasi nga, kukunin pa niya sa sino 'yung mga pinagtaguan niya nu'ng perang 'yun. Kasi, ayoko siyang matulad sa parang na, you know, 'yung tatay ng mga anak ko magnanakaw. Ayoko, ayoko. Kaya hindi ko nilaban 'yung pera noon." Claudine said that the case is now in court. “But now na lumalaki 'yung Alden Richards mga anak ko, ta’s kukunin mo Photo from Instagram/@aldenrichards02 'yung bahay, 'yung bahay namin, to treasure,” he added. du’n na, 'yun na 'yung sinabi ng Alden celebrated his 32nd lahat ng tao, ‘Okay. Magba-VAWC birthday last January 2. (Violence Against Women and

Claudine Barretto Photo from Instagram/@claubarretto

Children) na tayo,'” she said. “Kukunin ko na kung ano 'yung dapat sa akin. Mag-labasan na tayo. Sige na,” she added. The actress said that she needed the money now because her kids want to study abroad. “Ngayon, since malaki na ang mga anak ko, Sabina wants to study abroad, Santino’s in Brent and alam naman natin kung gaano kamahal ‘yun," she said. “So, parang since hindi niya nabibigay ‘yung support na in-order ng court, hindi nasusunod. Parang ‘yun ‘yung sinasabi ng mama

na ‘Ipaglaban mo,’” she added. Claudine said that she's thankful to Luis' mother, Vilma Santos, for giving her encouraging words. “Talagang sabi ko, ‘Ate Vi, pabalik ako.’ So, kung may mga court cases na naman, baka makaantala 'yun sa mga projects na darating. Tapos sabi niya, ‘As long as you show them that you’re working hard, you’re professional, ipaglaban mo, Claudine. Ipaglaban mo 'yung pagiging nanay mo," she said. “'Ipaglaban mo,’ sabi niya. ‘Pumunta ka sa korte. Mag-demanda ka,’ sabi niya. ‘Ipaglaban mo 'yung pagiging nanay mo. Ipaglaban mo 'yung pagiging asawa mo, pagiging wife mo. Ipaglaban mo lahat 'yun. Kunin mo kung ano 'yung nawala sa'yo.’ “And your mom told me lang na, ‘Continue working, kasi nandiyan na. Nandiyan na 'yung mga trabaho mo. Pero ipaglaban mo. Kunin mo kung ano 'yung para sa'yo.'” Claudine did not mention the name of her ex-husband, but the actress has been estranged from her husband, actor Raymart Santiago. They were married first in a civil wedding in May 2004 and then again in a church wedding in March 2006. (Philstar.com)

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JANUARY 4-10, 2024 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

Health @Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS DID you know how many hotdogs are consumed each day in the United States alone? Roughly 633 hotdogs are eaten by Americans per second, or 37, 980 every minute, almost 2.3 million an hour. A lot of dogs According to Janet Riley, president of the National Hotdog and Sausage Council, USA, Americans eat twenty billion hotdogs a year. This does not include those sold at ball games, which is about 30 million during regular pro season. Calories Hotdogs, also known as franks, are popular because it is inexpensive, convenient to eat, and has lower calories than pizza or hamburger. A hamburger, depending on its size and condiments with it, could provide 350 calories or have as high as 800 to 1,000 calories. A slice of pizza has 272 calories, while a hot dog has only 148. Quality of food While calorie-intake is vital to our health, and being appropriately conscious about how much we eat positively impacts our well-being and our longevity, the quality of what we eat is also very important. As they say, we are what we eat. Processed foods: Unhealthy Medical statistics on the relationship of nutrition/diet, health/ diseases and longevity show that a meal with processed foods (canned or frozen, especially meats, like hotdogs, bacon, ham, etc.) is most unhealthy. Eating processed foods has been linked to the development of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, like hypertension, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and various forms of cancers, most notably cancer of the pancreas and the gastrointestinal tract. Foods manufactured are processed to preserve their texture, color, aroma, nutritive value, prevent bacterial growth, and to maximize their “shelf” life. This goes true with either canned or frozen food items. To achieve all these, various strategies are employed. The two common ones are the use of chemical preservatives and additives, and controlled heat sterilization. What in the processing technique or in the chemical additives and preservatives used is hazardous to health has not been fully

Features

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Your On processed foods and cancer Minding Finances determined, but the statistics are too overwhelming to ignore. The association between the illnesses mentioned above and the regular ingestion of processed foods is very significant. There is no question that FRESH, unadulterated, is best! Killing us softly In general, red meats and other high cholesterol and high fat food items harm our body. The adverse effects on our various organs happen so slowly, taking decades before illnesses and symptoms manifest themselves, that we do not feel sick or threatened immediately, and thus continue consuming these great tasting foods regularly. Metaphorically speaking, these foods are slow poisons which are killing us softly. Healthier option The proven healthier alternative is a diet composed of fish, vegetables, fruits, nuts, grains, wheat, and other high fiber foods. The high omega 3 content in fish in general, and the phyto chemicals in vegetables, especially the green leafy ones, and the other antioxidant flavanoids in this regimen, are all beneficial in their boosting effects on our immune system, and on their protective action for our cardiovascular and gastrointestinal health. Coupled with controlled carbohydrate and calorie intake, daily physical exercises, and stress management, this gastronomic option is healthier, a life-saver, and one which maximizes people’s potential longevity. *** The Carnitine craze Like the snake oil-style scams claiming “the greatness, benefits, and safety” of dozens of so-called food supplements and herbals, which are very expensive, the addition of l-carnitine in drinks and other food items is nothing but false advertisement and public misinformation. Carnitine is a normal substance in our diet. It is a hydrophilic amino acid derivative, produced in the liver and kidneys, from meat and dairy products we eat. Carnitine allows for the proper metabolism and conversion of fats into energy. We do not need any “extra” carnitine to stay healthy. Our body gets enough from the food we eat daily. To add another chemical substance to our food is totally unnecessary and may even be dangerous. Primary carnitine deficiency, which is a rare inherited autosomal recessive pattern, affects 1 out of every 40,000 live births in

Japan and 1 out of every 37,000 to 100,000 newborns in Australia. It is a congenital defect in babies and very young children but seen in adults very rarely. Primary carnitine in adults is almost unheard of. In view of available medical facts, why are manufacturers adding l-carnitine to their food products for the general public? Besides, an infant or a child, or even the rare adult, who has this uncommon disorder would not be helped, much less cure the carnitine deficiency anyway, since the amount added to the food items is not in the therapeutic level. The inference that the added l-carnitine to the food items in question is beneficial and safe for the consumers is another gimmick these greedy and unscrupulous vendors of ill-will are using to earn a fast buck. Manufacturers of unproven herbals and the umpteen numbers of “food supplements” on the market today continue to victimize the helpless ignorant consumers. And they obviously do so with impunity because they know they can get away with it. The more important issue here is, therefore, why our government is not enforcing our laws governing truth-in-advertising and other pertinent regulations to protect the public? *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He was a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, conferred by then Indiana Governor, later Senator, and then presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali, and Astronaut Gus Grissom (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.

atty. RayMonD Bulaon IS the government after you for unpaid IRS taxes that you cannot afford to pay? Do you get sick to your stomach not knowing what the government will do next to collect what you owe? Most people think they have no recourse when it comes to dealing with the Internal Revenue Service. This is absolutely NOT TRUE! Don’t let the IRS take advantage of your lack of knowledge – because they will (it is, after all the, the government we’re talking about here). News Alert: The IRS just announced this week that it will now go FULL-FORCE again in collecting taxes that you owe! This was temporarily put on pause during the pandemic and so the IRS was not doing much to collect in the last 3 years. That is about to change so expect to get a collection letter to be in your mailbox soon! What does that mean? That means that if you have ignored your IRS tax problems in the past, you can’t afford to do that anymore. The IRS is a giant collection agency that will not be ignored! They have an arsenal of weapons in their hands to make sure that you pay every penny that you owe. I’m talking about the IRS garnishing your wages, putting a tax lien on your home and other assets, freezing your bank account, and revoking your U.S. passport! You don’t think that can happen to you? Do you really want to find out the hard way or do you want to do something about it now BEFORE the worst happens?

Tax problems? Don’t let the IRS ruin your life! There are completely legal and ethical ways to put the IRS at bay. What you need is the knowledge about IRS procedures and rules that will help you in fighting the tax man. You have legal rights as a taxpayer but if you don’t know what they are, there’s a chance you’re not getting a fair deal when dealing with the government. These powerful strategies I’m talking about can buy you precious time to save your business, your assets, and your sanity! Is your tax bill GROWING every day? Believe it or not, the penalties and interest that the IRS is charging you can exceed 20% in some cases! This means that if you can just get some of the penalties and interest removed from your account, you can drastically reduce the total amount of your tax debt. Of course, the government will not tell you this and it is up to you to find out for yourself how this can be possible under certain circumstances. Ultimately, you want to accomplish four primary objectives when fighting the IRS: 1. Remove the threat and worry of the taxing authorities taking aggressive collection action against your income and assets. 2. Seek a reduction in the total amount of debt. 3. Negotiate a formal resolution to your tax situation that will be the most affordable arrangement given your financial situation. 4. Ensure the appropriate steps are taken to permanently eliminate any possibility of a future tax burden.

If you owe the IRS, the State or both and don’t have the money to pay them, I would like to help you resolve your tax liabilities. My office will work diligently to prevent any enforced collection action such as bank account and accounts receivable levies and seizure of assets. After you hire me, you will never have to talk to the IRS again! As your attorney, I will call the IRS and deal with them directly while trying to find the best solution for your situation. I can help you wherever you are in the United States. How about a good night’s sleep for a change? I know that having IRS problems can be very stressful, but unless you do something about it, nothing will change, and your problems just get worse over time. Call me now for a quick consultation and let’s talk about how we can get rid of your IRS problems forever! *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** NOTE: Due to the current lockdown order caused by COVID-19, I am offering free consultations BY PHONE to anyone who needs help in dealing with their debt problems. *** None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has been in private practice for 23 years and have helped more than 6,000 clients obtain debt relief. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call RJB Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1-866-471-8273. (Advertising Supplement)

How providing race and ethnicity data helps all customers by annie Walters Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Nevada

WE are continuously working to better understand how Social Security’s programs serve the public. Collecting race and ethnicity data for research and statistical purposes is one way for us to determine whether we are equitably serving the public. Applicants and customers may voluntarily provide this information. It does not affect decisions on benefit applications. Why does it matter if people provide race and ethnicity data? When customers choose to provide race and ethnicity information, it lets us know: Who our benefit payments and programs are helping and who may be left out. What unintended barriers may impact benefits and services. Where to expand outreach

efforts. How to increase awareness of eligibility for programs and benefits. In other words, race and ethnicity data can help expand access to our programs, which is one of the objectives in our Equity Action Plan at blog.ssa.gov/socialsecuritys-equity-action-plan. Examples of how we use this information can be found on our

Racial Equity Resources webpage at www.ssa.gov/policy/about/ racial-equity-resources.html. Currently, we collect race and ethnicity information on applications for new or replacement Social Security number (SSN) cards. These applications can be completed: Online at www.ssa.gov/ number-card. At one of our local offices or card centers. Soon, parents may voluntarily provide this information when requesting their newborn’s SSN at the hospital. The option to provide this data will be available in participating states. We encourage you to provide your race and ethnicity information on your or your child’s application for a new or replacement SSN card. This information will help us better understand and serve all our current and future customers.

The ‘ideal wedding’ Rayver imagines for girlfriend Julie Anne by Marinel Cruz Inquirer.net

“WHEN I’m already sure, you’ll definitely know,” declared actor Rayver Cruz, who added that while he was certain of settling down with no one but singer-actress Julie Anne San Jose, he has not set a timeline for it just yet. Rayver and Julie Anne publicly admitted that they were dating on Nov. 26, 2022 during their “JulieVerse” concert. Over a year later, Rayver, 34, said, “It’s hard to declare anything definite, but for sure, this will happen soon because we’re not getting any younger. There’s no timetable but, definitely, I want to have my own family soon. I know this is what you want to hear: ‘Yes, I will marry Julie Anne San Jose.’ I just can’t say the exact time, but God knows, and she knows, how much I love her.” Rayver admitted to finding it funny when show biz scribes would ask him again and again specific details about his wedding plans. “To be honest, I just laugh at questions like that because I really can’t share when I intend to propose to her. I will only spoil the surprise if I do. Also, if I declare something and it doesn’t happen when expected, I will surely get criticized,” Rayver told Inquirer Entertainment in a recent interview. “I just know deep in my heart that it’s really meant for Julie Anne. We also want to enjoy our relationship as boyfriend-girlfriend first. “Again, when the right time comes, you will know. This will be in God’s time, all things considered. I respect her family so much. I respect Julie Anne so much.” The actor did let on what for him would be an ideal wedding. “I just want it simple. I still want to get married in a church. My family and I still hear Mass every Sunday. We may not go together anymore—because my brother Rodjun lives with his family up north, while my other brother, Omar, is now based in Cebu—but we make sure to fulfill our weekly obligation to Him.”

Rayver Cruz and Julie Anne San Jose

Rayver considers Rodjun as his role model when it comes to being the “family man.” He said: “I actually don’t need any advice from him anymore. I learn just by observing him. I consider him the perfect role model. I’m lucky to have a big brother like him—he’s a family man. Don’t you see how cute his son Joaquin is? If you have a Kuya like him who supports you all the way, you’ll be okay.” Center of relationship As for Julie Anne, Rayver thinks they are still together because they click. “We’re so much alike. We share everything—our kind of music, our interests. You will surely say the same thing about us when you see us on TikTok. Aside from that, we’re both familyoriented and God-fearing. We’re also cheerful and happy people,” he pointed out. Prior to dating each other, Rayver was with Janine Gutierrez, while Julie Anne went out with Benjamin Alves. Rayver was then asked what lessons he has learned from his past relationship that he now applies to his current. To this, he said: “I don’t think about my experiences from past

Photo from Instagram/@rayvercruz

relationships anymore. When I love a person, I give the relationship my all. I just know that if you make God the center of your relationship, everything will be okay.” Rayver’s holidays For Christmas, Rayver promised to visit Julie Anne and her family. “That wasn’t much of a hassle because she also lives in the north and their house is close to Rodjun’s,” the actor said. When Rayver, who used to be a talent of ABS-CBN before transferring to rival GMA 7, was asked to describe what 2023 was like for him, he replied: “I’m so thankful. I feel super blessed. I don’t take for granted all the projects that the Kapuso network entrusted me to do. I constantly work on improving myself. I feel flattered whenever I’m given the opportunity to be part of an important TV project. And already at the start of 2024, my new show will be launched. I’m really excited.” “Ito ay Asawa ng Asawa Ko,” which will also feature Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Joem Bascon, Martin del Rosario and Gina Alajar, will be directed by Laurice Guillen.

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JANUARY 4-10, 2024 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

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