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T HE F ILIPINO A MERICAN C OMMUNITY N EWSPAPER

Volume 18 - No. 17 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages

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JANUARY 12-18, 2024

Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, SAN DIEGO, LAS VEGAS, NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY

Marcos to see Duterte ‘if he wants a meeting’ DATELINE USA FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

There’s a new COVID-19 variant and cases are ticking up IT’S winter, that cozy season that brings crackling fireplaces, indoor gatherings — and a wave of respiratory illness. Nearly four years since the pandemic emerged, people are growing weary of dealing with it, but the virus is not done with us. Nationally, a sharp uptick in emergency room visits and hospitalizations for COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, began in mid-December and appears to be gaining momentum. What’s circulating now? The COVID virus is continually changing, and a recent version is rapidly climbing the charts. Even though it appeared only in September, the variant known as JN.1, a descendant of omicron, is rapidly spreading, representing between 39% to half of the cases, according to pre-holiday stats from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lab data indicates that the updated vaccines, as well as existing COVID rapid  PAGE 3

You can now report scammers to FTC in Tagalog THE Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a new strategy for battling fraud. its Language Access Initiative now provides interpreters who can take fraud reports and provide advice in many more languages than just English and Spanish. New language choices available include Tagalog. At a recent press briefing the federal agency hosted with Ethnic Media Services – simultaneously translated into Spanish, Korean and Mandarin – two FTC officials and a lawyer/journalist described how the new multilingual services work and some of the ways they’re expected to help protect consumers. “We’ve long had the ability to hear from people in English and Spanish,” said Monica Vaca, deputy director in the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Getting reports from people in other languages has been a limitation for us.” Vaca emphasized the importance of people making those reports not just for their own sake but to help the FTC get the word out before more people are scammed. “We can only bring cases and do education about  PAGE 3

by GERMELINA LACORTE, JEROME ANING Inquirer.net

MANILA — Malacañang on Sunday, January 7 said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is open to a meeting with his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte after the former president said on Saturday, January 6 that he wanted to talk to Marcos regarding embattled network Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI). “President Marcos is always available to President Duterte. The president will contact him now to ask if he wants a meeting,” Communications Secretary

Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil told reporters in a message on Viber. Duterte cohosted on SMNI “Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa” (From the Masses, for the Masses), one of two programs that the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board suspended on Dec. 18, in part due to Duterte’s earlier remarks against ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro, which prompted the lawmaker to sue the former president for grave threat. The next day, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) ordered the network’s operations

6.5 million join Black Nazarene procession MANILA – Around 6.5 million Catholic devotees turned up for this year’s procession to honor the Black Nazarene, turning the streets of the capital into a sea of maroon and yellow, in one of the world’s biggest displays of religious devotion. The 15-hour procession for the life-size statue of a dark-skinned Jesus Christ began at 4:45 a.m. following an outdoor mass at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila and concluded at 7:45 p.m. when the image returned to the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo. The Black Nazarene, believed by many Filipinos to possess miraculous healing abilities, draws crowds seeking to touch it or the ropes on its float for cures and good fortune. “I believe that the Nazarene will give what we are all praying for — we just have to wait, but he will give everything,” said Renelinda de Leon, 64, at the procession’s start. “He gave me good health. I don’t have an illness, I’m always healthy.” As a drizzle covered the crowd, some barefoot devotees clambered over others and grabbed guards’ clothes to reach the float, leading to falls. Other guards on the float pushed unruly followers to RELIGIOUS FERVOR. Black Nazarene devotees raise their hands as the andas (carriage) carrying the religious image starts to make its way the ground to protect the icon, encased in glass, allowing through the crowded streets of Manila en route to Quiapo Church at midnight on Tuesday, Jan. 9. The annual feast is a powerful demonstration the parade to proceed. of faith among Filipinos. PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan  PAGE 4

Marcos: Discover strength, hope on Black Nazarene feast by GAEA KATREENA CABICO Philstar.com

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged Catholic devotees to find strength and renewed hope during the festivities of the Feast of the Black Nazarene. In a message Monday, January 8 Marcos said the feast shows “the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ who willingly offered Himself to make us whole once more.” “By working through our struggles and difficulties, we discover our inner strength and resolve, emerging from the pits of darkness and despair with a renewed sense

of hope and purpose,” Marcos said. “With our faith guiding our every word and deed, I am certain that we will build a brighter future for our nation and create a world where love, kindness, and harmony reign supreme,” he added. This year’s Traslacion, or the grand procession of the revered statue of Jesus Christ, was expected to draw millions of Catholic devotees. Around 15,000 police President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. officers were expected to secure the Traslacion on Tuesday, January 9. Marcos declared January 9 a special nonworking day in the City of Manila to mark the observance of the feast. 

Senator criticizes plan to import jeepneys from China by CRISTINA CHI Philstar.com

MANILA — Sen. Raffy Tulfo has expressed opposition to the government’s alleged plan to import modern jeepney units from China to replace the traditional jeepney vehicles even as modern jeepneys made by local manufacturers are more affordable — a move that he said “reeks of corruption.” Tulfo said that local jeepney manufacturers can produce modern vehicles at a lower price than the cost of importing Chinamade jeepneys, which are pegged at P2.6 to P2.9 million per unit.

suspended, following a resolution by the House of Representatives recommending that action, citing SMNI’s alleged violations of the terms of its franchise. ‘I have not crucified him’ In his first press conference with Davao media on Saturday night, a recording of which was posted by some broadcasters online, Duterte said: “I do not want to control the president, but rather I’d like to talk to him directly why was it like that.” “Also, as far as I’m concerned, I have not crucified him, not even criticized him severely—maybe [I had]  PAGE 2

“Our waters in the West Philippine Sea are already being occupied by China. Will we let our roads be occupied by them?” Tulfo said in Filipino. Tulfo cited as an example the price points of vehicles made by local manufacturers Sarao and Francisco Motors, which he said make modern jeepneys that cost P900,000 to P985,000 a piece. The senator added that the government can save around P1.7 million per unit if they choose a local manufacturer instead of a Chinese company and that prioritizing Filipino vehicle makers would create thousands  PAGE 5

Traditional jeepneys at the FTI terminal in Taguig City.

Philstar.com photo

Malacañang file photo

Pulse Asia: Marcos’ approval rating jumps by 3%, VP Duterte gains 1% by JEAN MANGALUZ Inquirer.net

MANILA — The approval and trust ratings of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. bounced back in December 2023, according to a new Pulse Asia survey released on Monday, January 8. Marcos’ approval rating took a nosedive in September 2023, suffering a double-digit drop. His popularity rating was 80 percent in June 2023, dropping 15 points or 65 percent in September 2023. Now, the president’s rating increased by 3 points, currently standing at 68 percent. “The president and the vicepresident both have majority approval scores in every area,”

stated Pulse Asia. Meanwhile, the trust rating of the chief executive also increased by two points, from 71 percent in September 2023 to 73 percent December 2023. In June 2023, the president’s rating was at 85 percent. Vice President Sara Duterte’s approval rating also rose by one percent after a significant decline in September 2023. Duterte’s December 2023 approval rating was higher than Marcos’ at 74 percent. Her trust rating is also higher than the chief executive at 78 percent. The survey was held from December 3 to 7, 2023. It was participated by 1,200 respondents across the country. �

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JANUARY 12-18, 2024 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

From the Front Page

6.5 million join Black Nazarene... PAGE 1

Over 15,000 security and medical staff were deployed along the route. Religious vow John Nazareth celebrated his twelfth birth anniversary on Tuesday, January 9 by holding onto the metal pole of a parked fire truck at Casal Street in Manila, trying not to get swept by a throng of devotees. “I just want to thank Him,” the young devotee said. “This is my religious vow.” John, dressed in a yellow Nazareno shirt, used a thin towel over his head to shield from the light rain. Unfazed by the potential of falling ill, he viewed the rain as a blessing. Zairen Advincula, 20, experienced the procession for the first time. “It’s very crowded and exhausting,” he said, keeping close to his friends to avoid separation. Close to the ‘andas’ carrying the Black Nazarene, Zairen was seen guarding a replica image.

Acknowledging the exhaustive nature of the procession, Zairen prioritized tradition over his wellbeing. “My father used to do this [procession], but now he is abroad. I’m just continuing the tradition,” he said. Zairen, sharing his birthday with John Nazareth, viewed his participation as a form of devotion. Behind Zairen was 24-yearold Ranzelle Brao, also in his first Traslacion at Quiapo. An altar server at Santa Isabel Parish Church in Malolos, Bulacan, along with Zairen, Ranzelle expressed a commitment to serving the Father. “As altar servers, this is our religious duty,” he said. The barefooted youth sought strength and protection for their parents from the Black Nazarene. “We wish for our parents to live longer so that we can be with them for a long time,” Ranzelle said, planning to join the procession until it reached Quiapo Church. Families participated, with fathers lifting children on shoulders and mothers shielding

them from the rain. The Quiapo Church Command Center reported that 657,000 participants initially joined the religious procession at the Quirino Grandstand. The crowd increased to 833,000 by 7:44 a.m., and further swelled to 1,340,000 a few hours later. First after the pandemic This is the first traditional parade featuring the life-sized statue since 2020, paused due to COVID-19. Jonathan Rancho, 52, joined with his family from Bulacan province. “I am very pleased the old system is back and we get to do this again,” he said, hoping for improved livelihoods and success. The original wooden statue, dating back to the early 1600s, is believed to have darkened after surviving a fire on a ship from Mexico. Marites Rote credited the Black Nazarene with curing her children’s skin rashes nearly 40 years ago and more recently,

u PAGE 4

NEW DRESS. Two devotees purchase a new robe for their Black Nazarene image outside the San Pedro Cathedral in Davao City on Tuesday, Jan. 9. They said they change the statue’s apparel yearly. PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

Marcos to see Duterte ‘if he... PAGE 1 commented on the direction the government is proceeding. That’s all,” he added. Duterte also defended the network and its founder, Apollo Quiboloy. “My only concern is to help my friend, the pastor because the NTC has not even come up with an allegation or a charge of any wrongdoing,” he said. “Sonshine has always been careful, why is this happening?” Duterte said further. “I’m just biding my time, one of these days, I will come up with a statement not necessarily defending Pastor Quiboloy, but just to say something about the way things are,” he also said. Duterte explained that he was concerned about recent developments regarding SMNI because his weekly show was also affected. “I’ll just refer to my show because that’s what is important to me,” he said, adding that the suspension of his program did not follow “the right procedure.” ‘Retired and poor’ Duterte also took the occasion to deny that there was ever a “secret meeting” with military and police officials in Davao City,

amid reports of a destabilization plot against Mr. Marcos. “Who would believe me? What police or military officers are crazy enough to meet with me?” he said when asked in his news conference about the alleged meeting. “They must be crazy. I’m already retired and poor,” he said, adding that people spreading rumors about a destabilization plot involving him must be insecure. “It’s their insecurity, maybe, it’s all in their mind,” the former president said. In November last year, Duterte said in his program that he remembered “talking to some retired generals,” but emphasized to them that as long as there is “no serious issue of corruption,” the government would not be brought down by the people if their money is not being misspent. He also wondered “how I was dragged into this” talk of destabilization. ‘Marcos is quite careful’ On the recent controversy over the confidential funds sought by Vice President Sara Duterte, her father said, “I cannot be an active participant in politics. It’s all politics. She has to be on her

own.” Duterte said he spends most of his time at home reading and playing with his grandchildren. He would leave the house from time to time but only to places far away from the crowd, he said. Asked about the performance of the administration, he said he did not see any major errors, abuses, or corruption. “Marcos is quite careful. I really do not know anything. I’m outside Malacañang. I don’t have any contacts anymore since I retired. I do not bother to ask questions so what I see is what I get,” the former leader said. Political watchers have observed a cooling of relations between the Marcos and Duterte camps, even as both leaders still appear to be on good terms, compared with their predecessors. In July last year, Marcos even defended Duterte’s sudden appearance with President Xi Jinping in China that month, saying that Duterte did not need his permission. Duterte met with Marcos the following month to discuss that meeting with the Chinese leader, as the Palace confirmed, without disclosing any further details. g

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. with his predecessor former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Malacañang photo

PAUNAWA NG MGA PAMPUBLIKONG PAGDINIG AT PULONG PARA SA MGA PRAYORIDAD SA PAGPONDO PARA SA FY 2024-2025 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN ANG LUNGSOD NG SAN JOSÉ AY BUMUBUO NG KANILANG MGA PRAYORIDAD SA PAGPONDO SA ANNUAL ACTION PLAN SA FY 2024-2025 Ang Mga Prayoridad sa Pagpopondo sa FY 2024-2025 Annual Action Plan (AAP) ay pinangangasiwaan ang paggamit ng mga pederal na pondo mula sa U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Ang mga pondo ng Lungsod na natanggap sa pamamagitan ng formula mula sa HUD ay kinabibilangan ng Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME), at Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA). Ang mga pondo ng formula ng Lungsod ay may average na humigit-kumulang $14 milyon taun-taon, depende sa pederal na budget. Kung gusto mong magbigay ng mga komento sa Mga Prayoridad sa Pagpopondo, tinatanggap ng Lungsod ang iyong pagdalo sa alinman sa mga pulong na nakalista sa iskedyul sa ibaba. Bukod pa rito, ang mga komento ay maaaring ibigay sa pamamagitan ng telepono, regular na koreo (sa Lungsod ng San José Housing Department, 200 E. Santa Clara Street, 12th Floor, San José, California 95113), o sa email sa pamamagitan ng contact information na nakalista sa ibaba para sa parehong gumagamit ng Ingles at mga may limitadong kasanayan sa Ingles. Ang Mga Prayoridad sa Pagpopondo para sa Annual Action Plan para sa FY 2024-2025 ay maaaring makita para makapagbigay ng komento ang publiko sa Housing Department's website na magtatapos sa Pebrero 8, 2024. Upang humiling ng mga espesyal na akomodasyon para sa alinman sa mga pagpupulong o isang alternatibong format para sa anumang nauugnay na naka-print na materyales, mangyaring tumawag sa (408) 294-9337 (TTY) sa lalong madaling panahon, ngunit hindi bababa sa tatlong araw na may pasok bago ang pulong. Ang lahat ng mga pampublikong pagpupulong ay maaaring daluhan ng mga may kapansanan sa pagkilos.

Iskedyul ng Pampublikong Pagdinig Ano Pagpapalabas ng Mga Prayoridad sa Pagpopondo FY 2024-2025 Annual Action Plan

Pampublikong Pagdinig ng Mga Prayoridad sa Pagpopondo para sa FY 2024-2025 Annual Action Plan.

Sino Tingnan ang website ng Housing Department, http://www.sanjoseca.gov/housingconplan para maghanap ng mga elektronikong kopya, o tumawag sa (408) 793-5542 o (408) 294-9337 (TTY) para sa mga papel na kopya Housing and Community Development Commission

Maaaring magbago ang mga petsa ng http://www.sanjoseca.gov/housingconplan para sa updates.

Saan Lungsod ng San José - Housing 200 E. Santa Clara St. 12th Floor (Tower)

Kailan Panahon ng Pampublikong Komento: Magtatapos sa Pebrero 8, 2024

Online meeting - agenda / Zoom link: Pebrero 8, https://www.sanjoseca.gov/your2024, simula government/departments/housing/about- 5:45pm us/housing-community-developmentcommission/agendas-minutes/-fsiteid-1 pagpupulong.

Mangyaring

tingnan

ang

CONTACT INFORMATION: Para sa mga tanong o komento tungkol sa Mga Prayoridad sa Pagpopondo para sa Annual Action Plan. para sa FY 2024-2025, mangyaring makipag-ugnayan kay Stephanie Gutowski sa (408) 975-4420 o sa stephanie.gutowski@sanjoseca.gov. PARA RESIDENTES QUE HABLAN ESPAÑOL: El Plan de Acción Anual para 2024-25. El Plan de Acción Anual identifica las necesidades de viviendas y del desarrollo comunitario de la ciudad. Para mas información, favor de llamar a Luisa Cantu (408) 535-8357. Thông báo này dành cho người nói tiếng Việt: Thông báo này liên quan đến Bản Sửa Đổi Đáng kể cho Kế Hoạch Hoạt động Hàng Năm cho niên khóa 2024-2025. Quý vị nào muốn biết thêm chi-tiết, xin vui lòng liên lạc với cô Janie Le, qua số điện-thoại Janie Le (408) 975-4414.

使用華語的聖荷西居民：此通知是關於 2023-24 年計劃的重要改變。年度計劃是列出社區發展需求，並提供市府應用基金以舒解需求 的方䅁。詳細資料 ，請電，華語 Ann Tu (408) 975-4450.

CNSB #3772708

(650) 689-5160 • http://www.asianjournal.com

Dateline USa

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 12-18, 2024

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There’s a new COVID-19 variant and cases...

PAGE 1

tests and medical treatments, are effective with this latest iteration. More good news is that it “does not appear to pose additional risks to public health beyond that of other recent variants,” according to the CDC. Even so, new COVID hospitalizations — 34,798 for the week that ended Dec. 30 — are trending upward, although rates are still substantially lower than last December’s tally. It’s early in the season, though. Levels of virus in wastewater — one indicator of how infections are spreading — are “very high,” exceeding the levels seen this time last year. And don’t forget, other nasty bugs are going around. More than 20,000 people were hospitalized for influenza the week ending Dec. 30, and the CDC reports that RSV remains elevated in many areas. “The numbers so far are definitely going in the not-sogood direction,” said Ziyad AlAly, the chief of the research and development service at the Veterans Affairs St. Louis Healthcare System and a clinical epidemiologist at Washington University in St. Louis. “We’re likely to see a big uptick in January now that everyone is back home from the holidays.” But no big deal, right? Certainly, compared with the first COVID winter, things are better now. Far fewer people are dying or becoming seriously ill, with vaccines and prior infections providing some immunity and reducing severity of illness. Even compared with last winter, when omicron was surging, the situation is better. New hospitalizations, for example, are about one-third of what they were around the 2022 holidays. Weekly deaths dropped slightly the last week of December to 839 and are also substantially below levels from a year ago. “The ratio of mild disease to serious clearly has changed,” said William Schaffner, a professor of medicine in the division of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in Nashville, Tennessee. Even so, the definition of “mild” is broad, basically referring to anything short of being sick enough to be hospitalized. While some patients may have no more than the sniffles, others experiencing “mild” COVID can be “miserable for three to five days,” Schaffner said.

How will this affect my day-today life? “Am I going to be really sick? Do I have to mask up again?” It is important to know the basics. For starters, symptoms of the COVID variants currently circulating will likely be familiar — such as a runny nose, sore throat, cough, fatigue, fever, and muscle aches. So if you feel ill, stay home, said Marcus Plescia, chief medical officer of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials. “It can make a big difference.” Dust off those at-home COVID test kits, check the extended expiration dates on the FDA website, and throw away the ones that have aged out. Tests can be bought at most pharmacies and, if you haven’t ordered yours yet, free test kits are still available through a federal program at COVID.gov. Test more than once, especially if your symptoms are mild. The at-home rapid tests may not detect COVID infection in the first couple of days, according to the FDA, which recommends using “multiple tests over a certain time period, such as two to three days.” With all three viruses, those most at risk include the very young, older adults, pregnant people, and those with compromised immune systems or underlying diseases, including cancer or heart problems. But those without high-risk factors can also be adversely affected. While mask-wearing has dropped in most places, you may start to see more people wearing them in public spaces, including stores, public transit, or entertainment venues. Although a federal mask mandate is unlikely, health officials and hospitals in at least four states — California, Illinois, Massachusetts, and New York — have again told staff and patients to don masks. Such requirements were loosened last year when the public health emergency officially ended. Such policies are advanced through county-level directives. The CDC data indicates that, nationally, about 46.7% of counties are seeing moderate to high hospital admission rates of COVID. “We are not going to see widespread mask mandates as our population will not find that acceptable,” Schaffner noted. “That said, on an individual basis,

mask-wearing is a very intelligent and reasonable thing to do as an additional layer of protection.” The N95, KN95, and KF94 masks are the most protective. Cloth and paper are not as effective. And, finally, if you haven’t yet been vaccinated with an updated COVID vaccine or gotten a flu shot, it’s not too late. There are also new vaccines and monoclonal antibodies to protect against RSV recommended for certain populations, which include older adults, pregnant people, and young children. Generally, flu peaks in midwinter and runs into spring. COVID, while not technically seasonal, has higher rates in winter as people crowd together indoors. “If you haven’t received vaccines,” Schaffner said, “we urge you to get them and don’t linger.” Aren’t we all going to get it? What about repeat infections? People who have dodged COVID entirely are in the minority. At the same time, repeat infections are common. Fifteen percent of respondents to a recent Yahoo News/YouGov poll said they’d had COVID two or three times. A Canadian survey released in December found 1 in 5 residents said they had gotten COVID more than once as of last June. Aside from the drag of being sick and missing work or school for days, debate continues over whether repeat infections pose smaller or larger risks of serious health effects. There are no definitive answers, although experts continue to study the issue. Two research efforts suggest repeat infections may increase a person’s chances of developing serious illness or even long COVID — which is defined various ways but generally means having one or more effects lingering for a month or more following infection. The precise percentage of cases — and underlying factors — of long COVID and why people get it are among the many unanswered questions about the condition. However, there is a growing consensus among researchers that vaccination is protective. Still, the VA’s Al-Aly said a study he co-authored that was published in November 2022 u PAGE 5

UNITY. Community officials join the launch of the “Kalinisan sa Bagong Pilipinas” program at Baseco Compound in Barangay 649, Port Area, Manila on Saturday, Jan. 6. The first week of January and Jan. 6 of every year is declared as Community Development Week and Community Development Day to raise people’s awareness on the value of community cooperation even as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. asked local officials to take the lead in cleaning up roads, canals, markets and schools. PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

You can now report scammers to FTC... PAGE 1

scams that we know about,” she said. Fraud toll nears $9 billion Just based on the number of reports people made in English or Spanish, fraud and deceptive or unfair business practices cost US consumers close to $9 billion last year, noted Larissa Bungo, senior attorney with the FTC’s Division of Consumer and Business Education. People who are worried they have been victimized can reach out for FTC help either on the phone or online. Doing so will alert the FTC’s Consumer Sentinel Network – a pool of 3,000 law enforcement officers at federal, state and local levels – to be on the lookout. If the FTC can catch the culprits quickly enough there is the possibility of getting your money back – another reason to not hesitate if you think you’ve been cheated. For example, the FTC was able to recover $245 million that it is returning to customers of Epic Games, creator of the popular game Fortnite, which the FTC alleged tricked young players into making unintentional purchases. The deadline for filing a claim is Jan. 17 of 2024. Don’t hesitate to report fraud Of course, to get money back with FTC help, you have to iden-

tify yourself when making a report, but in any case, you will never be asked about your immigration status. Sometimes, success in getting money back depends on how the victim was defrauded. For instance, if payments were made using a credit card, it may be possible to contest the charge with the card company. So be careful. “Only scammers insist you pay by gift card, cryptocurrency or wire transfer,” Bungo advised. Another reason to not delay reporting suspicions is that scammers often work from overseas where they and the money they obtained are harder for law enforcement to reach. Even if you successfully dodge a scam, reporting the attempt helps inform and thus protect otherwise unsuspecting potential victims, Bungo said. The multilingual call-center staff and information available at the agency’s website can also provide a range of “next steps” for people to consider. By phone, call (877) 382-4357, then press 3. A succession of messages in different languages will tell you what number to press next to reach an in-person interpreter who knows your language. Lines are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST, which is 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. on

the West Coast. New language choices available as of last month include Portuguese, French, Tagalog, Somali, Vietnamese, Arabic, Russian, Polish, Korean, Ukrainian, Hmong and Mandarin. The FTC has the ability to find interpreters in almost 200 languages, as needs arise. This multilingual reporting system can also be used to report identity theft situations. For those, call (877) 438-4338, then follow the same process of dialing 3 to access the various languages available. You can make either fraud or identity theft reports online at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or IdentityTheft.gov. Those four web pages all have drop-down lists in a box labeled “languages” that let users complete reports in dozens of other languages. Bungo also described numerous resources the FTC provides at no cost for people to distribute within their communities, whether online or in print. For instance, there’s a fraud handbook for recent immigrants and refugees and guidance for small business owners. There’s information about “four warning signs of a scam,” descriptions of common tricks such as fake invoices, business impersonation, u PAGE 5

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JANUARY 12-18, 2024 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

6.5 million join Black Nazarene...

PAGE 2 helping pay her husband’s medical bills. “When my husband got sick we were penniless, but because of the Nazarene we were able to provide for his needs,” Rote, 60, said. Authorities, citing no specific threat, blocked mobile signals to prevent remote detonations. They also imposed a no-fly and no-sail zone in the areas surrounding the Quirino Grandstand and Quiapo Church, Pasig River, as well as along the procession routes, from January 7 to 10. The procession, previously taking up to 22 hours, saw over 640 devotees receive medical help as of 6 p.m., the Philippine Red Cross reported. First-aid stations treated 214 people for minor medical issues, and addressing six cases with major issues. Thirtytwo individuals required transport to nearby hospitals and medical facilities. Some devotees collapsed and were carried out or passed over others’ heads. Glass case This year, the icon was placed in a glass case, and getting on the float was banned. Yet, some tried to touch the glass for miracles. Gerard Cordial, a long-time devotee, expressed surprise at seeing the Black Nazarene encased in glass for the first time. “We were shocked because we’re not used to seeing Him behind glass. We’re used to touching Him. Back then, we even had access to His face,” Cordial said. He acknowledged, however, that the glass surrounding the sacred image significantly enhances participant safety.

“It’s for safety so that the flow of Traslacion would be better. I think it’s better this year. The procession was smoother,” he noted. During the parade, one of two ropes pulling the float snapped. The incident occurred at the corner of Arlegui Street and Quezon Boulevard in Manila. An officer of the Manila Public Information Office said the rope became entangled in the carriage’s axle, leading devotees to cut it. “The rope which snapped has been brought back to Quiapo Church,” Silgen Cabrito, Quiapo Church Communications Coordinator, confirmed to reporters. Hours later, Cabrito clarified that two ropes were still being used in the procession, but the left side was shortened after being deliberately cut. This isn’t the first time a rope broke during the Traslacion, as similar incidents have disrupted past processions. Tonton Ruz, a guard, told Agence France-Presse he was glad the parade resumed but hoped for more peace than before. “Before, you can’t see Him (the statue) with so many people on top of the float blocking the view,” said Ruz, 36. ‘Caridad’ But as millions of devotees express their devotion to the Black Nazarene by participating in its procession, a group of friends have chosen to demonstrate their gratitude for answered prayers by sharing blessings. Flordeliza Burla, 54, and Raquel Navales, 53, have been engaging in “caridad,” or the act of distributing food to devotees, since 2019. Both have been followers of

The Black Nazarene goes back to Quiapo Church after the procession from Quirino Grandstand that took 15 hours on Tuesday, January 9, 2023. Inquirer.net photo by Zeus Legaspi

Dateline USa

the Nazarene since childhood. “Both of our hearts are full whenever we do this,” Burla said in an interview with INQUIRER.net near Quiapo Church on Tuesday. “We are doing this because we have to return the continuous blessings we received from our Lord,” she added. Burla and Navales ordered several hundred burgers and hotdog sandwiches, which they distributed to devotees, mostly young barefooted males wearing maroon shirts, passing by Quiapo Church after the procession. Exhausted and hungry from the lengthy procession, the devotees gratefully accepted the refreshments. “It’s better to give than to ask for something,” Navales also told INQUIRER.net. ‘Dungaw’ The Black Nazarene’s image reached Plaza del Carmen, adjacent to the Minor Basilica of San Sebastian, at 2:52 p.m., marking a significant moment in the procession for the traditional “dungaw (look).” After over 10 hours of procession, the image of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel de San Sebastian greeted the Black Nazarene to the enthusiastic cheers of “Viva” from devotees. Nuestra Señora del Carmen de San Sebastian’s image was positioned on a stage adjoining the church, enabling her to meet her son from the church’s balcony. Devotees engaged in a fiveminute prayer and sang “Our Father” during this interlude. The “dungaw” represented the only stop throughout the entire procession, a practice revived in the 2014 Traslacion. This year’s occurrence was notably earlier than in 2020, when the Black Nazarene’s image arrived at San Sebastian Church around 4:30 p.m. Thousands of police maintained order as many barefoot devotees attempted to board the carriage with the statue depicting Jesus carrying a cross. The statue’s black color, carved in Mexico and brought to the Philippines in the early 17th century, remains a mystery. Msgr. Sabino Vengco suggested it’s made of mesquite wood. About 80 percent of the Philippines’ 110 million people are Roman Catholic, a Spanish colonial legacy. (Adrian Parungao, Charie Abarca, Faith Argosino, Gabriel Lalu, John Eric Mendoza, Luisa Cabato, Zacarian Sarao, Zeus Legaspi/Inquirer.net)

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TIES THAT BIND. The flags of the Philippines and Indonesia hang from the panels of Ayala Bridge in Manila. Indonesian President Joko Widodo will be in the Philippines until January 11. PNA photo by Avito Dalan

Nominations for 2024 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas now open WASHINGTON – Nominations are now open for the 2024 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO), the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. has announced. The nomination period will close on May 30, 2024. The PAFIOO awards are conferred by the President of the Philippines every two years to honor and recognize individuals and organizations abroad who “contribute to Philippine development initiatives and promote the cause and interest of the Filipino diaspora overseas,” according to the Philippine Embassy. Since 1991, a total of 541 awards have been given out by the Presidents of the Republic of the Philippines to individuals and organizations from 55 countries and territories. The PAFIOO has four award categories: 1. Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (LINKAPIL) Award – conferred on overseas Filipino individuals or organizations for their significant contributions to the development of a particular sector/ local community in the Philippines. 2. Banaag Award – This award is conferred on overseas

Filipino individuals or organizations for their significant contributions in the host country that have benefited and advanced the cause and interest of the Filipino diaspora/overseas Filipino community. 3. Pamana ng Pilipino Award – conferred on overseas Filipino individuals who, in exemplifying the talent and industry of the Filipino, have brought the country honor and recognition through excellence and distinction in the pursuit of their work or profession. 4. Kaanib ng Bayan Award – conferred only for foreign individuals (natural-born) or foreign organizations for their significant contributions to Philippine development or a particular sector/local community in the country and for advancing the cause of the Filipino diaspora/overseas Filipino community. Any individual or organization, whether Filipino or foreign, based in the areas within the jurisdiction of the Philippine Embassy in Washington DC may submit nominations for the awards on or before April 24, 2024. The Philippine Embassy’s jurisdiction covers the states of Alabama, District of Columbia,

Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia in the U.S., as well as Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Guadaloupe, Guantanamo Bay, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, Montserrat, Puerto Rico, St. Barthelemy, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Martin, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks & Caicos and U.S. Virgin Islands. The nominations must be submitted to: The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. (Attention: Public Diplomacy Section) 1600 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C., 20036 Email address: info@phembassy-us.org For detailed guidelines, downloadable nomination and endorsement forms, steps for completing the nomination form and other relevant information about the awards, visit www. presidentialawards.cfo.gov.ph. For updates on the Presidential Awards, like and follow the Gawad ng Pangulo Facebook page. (Inquirer.net)

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Fil-Am teenager from NJ missing, family appeals for help You can now report scammers to FTC... SAN FRANCISCO – A Filipino American teenager from New Jersey has been missing for three weeks now, and her parents are appealing to the public to come forward with any clues. Hayley Alvarado, 18, has been missing since she left her Jersey City home early morning of Dec. 17. “You’re always in my heart my sweet ‘Lee.’ Please know that you are loved unconditionally by us. We will never give up searching for you and always pray for your safe return home,” said the missing teenager’s mother, Portia Alvarado, in a Facebook post. In an interview with Inquirer.net, Alvarado said Hayley left home without telling anyone where she was going and turned off her phone, making her unreachable. “She left home through our backdoor as our CCTV showed, and when her dad checked on her room, he found out she was no longer there. He tried looking for her to no avail,” Alvarado said. Alvarado said Hayley, who did not know how to use public transport, asked her brother, 17-yearold Harley, if she had the exact amount for bus fare “and I guess my son gave (the money) to her on Friday night.” “That’s the only amount she had with her. It look(ed) like she did not bring enough extra clothing with her because the backpack she brought look(ed) empty,” added Portia who describes herself as a wife, nanay, daughter, sister and friend who works as a registered nurse. Alvarado said Hayley left behind her laptop that she used for her studies at Montclair State University, where Hayley is enrolled as a freshman pursuing Linguistics. “Hayley had an episode of running away two years ago when she was 16, and in junior high. It was just for a few hours,” Alvarado said. “She skipped school and we found her at a park around 8 p.m.,” Alvarado said. “She was battling with depression and anxiety. She underwent therapy and had medications before. When that happened while in junior high, she had consulted with several psychiatrist already, one of whom told me she was just undergoing a phase in her young life, and she did not need any medication but underwent therapy.” Alvarado said the therapy went well and Hayley finished high school, graduating summa cum

laude. Like a typical teenager, Hayley stayed in her bedroom most of the time, but shortly before her disappearance, Hayley stayed in her room longer than usual – for three days – before she went missing. “Then Saturday evening before I went to work, I knocked on her door and asked, ‘Hayley are you ok?’ (and she said) ‘Yes nanay, it’s just that my stomach is aching’,” Alvarado recalled, breaking down in tears and asking her husband, Stephen Alvarado, to take over the interview. Stephen has served in the U.S. Marines for 16 years, and later as chief officer of a merchant vessel. He was often posted in the Persian Gulf. He has turned over Hayley’s laptop and tablet to the police, who are currently searching information they can use to help find Hayley. The police have also been checking CCTVs in buses, bus stations, establishments and parks, in coordination with the Department of Transportation. On Dec. 22, Stephen posted about Hayley’s disappearance on Facebook, “to get a wider reach, hoping someone may know and give (us) tips on where she may be. I also posted a wish that the spirit of Christmas giving will give us (the) return of our daughter Hayley,” he said. Hayley left behind her ID and ATM card, and only had $100 with her, Stephen said. “We are always checking on hospitals, shelter places and the police are checking on the places in New York and New Jersey that she (visited) as part of her routine. But all of them turned negative. We are also aware that if a patient is admitted (to a hospital) without any identifying papers, he/she is considered as unknown,” he added. Stephen said they continue to search for Hayley while they carry on with their daily duties and work responsibilities. “We also have to continue to take care of our two other children,” he said. He said that wherever Hayley might be, they hope she is safe, has a roof over her head and sheltered from the cold weather. He said any clues from the public will be greatly appreciated, asking those who may have information about Hayley to call 911 or the Jersey City Police Department at (551) 227-8511, or provide information at the nearest police station. (Inquirer.net)

Senator criticizes plan to import jeepneys...

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of jeepneys and job opportunities for local workers. Sarao Motors is a known Filipino manufacturer that has become synonymous with jeepneys in the Philippines. As early as 2014, the company has been working on a prototype that updates the traditional jeepney unit to include air conditioning and other features. Sarao Motors’ plans to create electric jeepneys hit a snag in March 2023, a company representative told TeleRadyo, due to a delay in receiving technologically advanced materials needed to comply with the government’s

modernization program. Meanwhile, Elmer Francisco, the owner of Francisco Motors, said in a radio interview in December that their electric jeep will be completely made with locally sourced materials and cost P985,000 each. According to a policy brief by the University of the Philippines Center for Integrative and Development Studies in 2023, modern jeepneys are relatively more expensive than traditional units because even though their parts are assembled locally, these use “imported parts and equipment sourced from huge corporations abroad.”

In 2022, Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista said that the department was working with a transport cooperative that plans to import electric mini buses from China. The House of Representatives is set to conduct a probe this week on allegations of corruption hounding the PUV modernization program. This comes after House Speaker Martin Romualdez said that his office received reports that current transport officials colluded with former officials to negotiate the imported modern jeepney units that will replace the traditional vehicles. g

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bad business practices, phony job opportunities, phony online retailers and “phishing” links disguised to look like they’re from companies trying to make a delivery. If asked, the agency will also print and ship these guides to community organizations, at no charge, Bungo said. Information the ‘most powerful weapon’ against scammers Lawyer and journalist Jongwon Lee described a scenario he witnessed and reported on

in Atlanta’s Korean community, where a retiree lost tens of thousands to an investment scammer who gained his trust in part by being conversant in Korean. Publicity about the case, a pyramid scheme that became known as Club Mega Planet, helped prosecutors uncover other victims in several states. Making law enforcement aware of additional cases increases the likelihood of criminals being arrested, and prompt reporting can help prevent the stolen mon-

5

ey from being spent before it can be recovered. “The FTC’s Language Access Initiative is historic,” Lee said. “It shows that government agencies are looking to do justice for immigrants like us. Language access gets rid of fear and shame and gives you confidence and encouragement that you are not alone and somebody is listening to you.” “Information is the most powerful weapon against scammers. Get educated and informed.” (Ethnic Media Services)

There’s a new COVID-19 variant and cases...

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found that getting COVID more than once raises an “additional risk of problems in the acute phase, be it hospitalization or even dying,” and makes a person two times as likely to experience long COVID symptoms. The Canadian survey also found a higher risk of long COVID among those who selfreported two or more infections. Both studies have their limitations: Most of the 6 million

in the VA database were male and older, and the data studied came from the first two years of the pandemic, so some of it reflected illnesses from before vaccines became available. The Canadian survey, although more recent, relied on self-reporting of infections and conditions, which may not be accurate. Still, Al-Aly and other experts say taking preventive steps, such as getting vaccinated and wearing a mask in higher-risk

situations, can hedge your bets. “Even if in a prior infection you dodged the bullet of long COVID,” Al-Aly said, “it doesn’t’ mean you will dodge the bullet every single time.” (Julie Appleby/ KFF Health News) KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.

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OPINION

FEATURES

JANUARY 12-18, 2024 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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Safe devotion

AFTER a pause of three years due to the COVID pandemic, the Black Nazarene procession resumed this year. The Philippine National Police has deployed thousands of its personnel along the route of the annual Traslacion. President Marcos declared Jan. 9 a holiday in the city of Manila, where the local government will be handing out free face masks to devotees. The masks are being distributed amid an increase in recent weeks of COVID cases and influenza-like illnesses or ILI particularly in Metro Manila. Devotees can manifest their faith and show concern for others by staying out of the procession if they have symptoms of illness. Four years of the killer pandemic have made everyone aware of these symptoms, and the minimum health protocols to avoid infecting others. Traslacion participants will include people belonging to the sectors most vulnerable to COVID and ILI: the elderly, the immunocompromised and those with comorbidities. Among the victims of COVID were members of the clergy. Government health personnel are deployed along the Traslacion route to provide emergency assistance, but preventing infection is equally important. Those who feel sick can still join the procession virtually, by watching the live coverage on television and streaming services. Health officials are urging participants to continue practicing minimum health protocols amid the expected heavy crowding during the

procession as well as the touching of the Black Nazarene image. Physical distancing is impossible, but respiratory and hand hygiene can still be practiced. Plans to resume the Traslacion last year were scrapped as the Omicron subvariant of SARS-CoV-2 raged across the planet including the Philippines. Today newer strains of Omicron are still around, capable of causing serious illness and even death to the vulnerable. Environment watchdogs are urging participants to also show concern for the environment and avoid littering. Religious devotion must be expressed through civic responsibility, starting with picking up after oneself. Traslacion participants can also do their share in keeping the procession safe from violent disruptions. Suspicious packages abandoned along the procession route must be reported immediately to authorities. While law enforcement agencies have reported no security threats, the country has had its share of terrorist attacks, and the PNP cannot let its guard down during the Traslacion. The Office for

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

Transportation Security has deployed security screening officers along with an x-ray machine at the Quiapo Church. After three long years without the largest religious procession in the country, Nazarene

believers are expected to manifest “revenge devotion” today, and participate in even more massive droves in the Traslacion. The devotion must be kept as safe as possible, both in terms of security and health. (Philstar.com)

ASEAN statement on South China Sea: The right step forward

Babe’s Eye View BABE ROMUALDEZ IN what is seen by many as an unprecedented move, the foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) issued a stand-alone statement expressing concern about the developments in the South China Sea and reaffirming “the shared commitment to maintaining and promoting peace, security and stability in the region” where tension has been growing over conflicting claims in the South China Sea. “We closely follow with concern the recent developments in the South China Sea that may undermine peace, security and stability in the region. We reaffirm the importance of maintaining and promoting peace, safety, security, stability and freedom of navigation in and overflight above the maritime sphere of Southeast Asia, particularly the South China Sea,” the statement read. The six-point statement likewise reaffirmed “the need to restore and enhance mutual trust and

confidence as well as exercise self-restraint in the conduct of activities that would complicate or escalate disputes and affect peace and stability,” urging that “actions that may further complicate the situation” must be avoided. While some have expressed disappointment that the statement seemed very innocuous and “watered down” as it did not specify the “recent developments” that have caused concern and what kind of “activities” have heightened tension in the region – in particular the aggressive actions of China Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels against Philippine Coast Guard vessels and resupply boats that include the spraying of high-pressure water cannons, pointing of military grade lasers and dangerous maneuvers with incidents of collision in areas that fall within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone – many find it significant that the statement urged “full respect for legal and diplomatic processes, without resorting to the threat or use of force, in accordance with the universally recognized principles of international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention

on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).” The hesitation by other ASEAN members to call out China is also understandable since these countries have a close relationship with China, particularly economic, as it is the biggest trading partner of ASEAN. Nevertheless, many found it notable that aside from underscoring the “peaceful resolution of disputes,” the statement repeated the phrase “universally recognized principles of international law” – recalling that in 2013, the Philippines filed a case against China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea before the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague under Annex VII of the UNCLOS. In 2016, the Philippines received a favorable ruling that China refuses to recognize to this day, while other claimants to disputed maritime territories have since been citing the ruling in their submissions before the United Nations. The last time the ASEAN foreign ministers issued a stand-alone statement was in May 2014 during the chairmanship of Myanmar, wherein they also expressed “serious concerns over the ongoing developments in the South

China Sea, which have increased tensions in the area” and “urged all parties concerned, in accordance with the universally recognized principles of international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to exercise self-restraint and avoid actions which could undermine peace and stability in the area and to resolve disputes by peaceful means without resorting to threat or use of force.” Admittedly, ASEAN has been getting criticism for its seeming silence over the increasingly aggressive actions displayed by China, which is in stark contrast to the reactions of other nations that include the United States, Japan, India, South Korea, the European Union, Australia and Canada that called out the China Coast Guard for its dangerous maneuvers in the West Philippine Sea. Be that as it may, one must recognize the effort of ASEAN to put out a statement a day before the end of Indonesia’s term as chairman. As noted by Evan Laksmana of the Singapore-based International Institute for Strategic Studies, it was “a good first step” in demonstrating an “effort to

build solidarity and keep the fragile ‘ASEAN unity’ intact,” and should be the beginning of better institutionalizing intra-ASEAN maritime security foundation. “Overall, the… statement is a necessary but far from sufficient step on behalf of the group in response to recurring maritime incidents,” Laksmana said, stressing the need for “better crisis management mechanisms in general and re-assess existing platforms like CoC” (Code of Conduct). As far back as 2002, ASEAN and China have been working towards creating a Code of Conduct on the South China Sea. In fact, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has been urging for the CoC negotiations to be pushed forward, but progress has been very slow – prompting the President to initiate negotiations for a separate code of conduct with other members of ASEAN who also have maritime claims in the South China Sea such as Vietnam and Malaysia. As noted by The Diplomat’s Southeast Asia editor Sebastian Strangio, the president’s call for growing regional cooperation “makes sound strategic sense,”

given the challenges faced by ASEAN in addressing SCS disputes plus “the difficulty in squaring the distinct interests” of the 10 member-states which have stymied progress in creating a binding code of conduct. “An informal code of conduct between the Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia, which would perhaps serve as a prelude to the final resolution of the disputes between them, would lay the groundwork for greater regional unity on the South China Sea disputes,” Strangio stated. There is hope China would see the light in working with ASEAN member-nations to promote peace and security in the region. Undoubtedly, if any major conflict arises from these so-called “skirmishes,” no one – but absolutely no one, especially in the Indo-Pacific region – would be spared. (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.

*** babeseyeview@gmail.com

2024: The opposition after ‘UniTeam’

Horizons

RICHARD HEYDARIAN “NEVER interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake,” counseled the French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. The virtual disintegration of the “UniTeam”—an alliance of inconvenience between the House of Marcos and the House of Duterte—has made the Napoleonic dictum particularly attractive to liberal-progressive observers. Whenever I post anything about the latest plot twist in the slow-motion dismantlement of the UniTeam, the emoji that keeps on popping up in the comments section is popcorn. In many ways, schadenfreude has become the visceral response of countless disillusioned Filipinos, who refused to accept or welcome the victory of MarcosDuterte axis in last year’s elections. It’s a particularly understandable sentiment. While the former demagogue from Davao unabashedly mocked and maimed our democratic institutions, the emphatic victory of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in last year’s elections was a slap on the face of both EDSA I and EDSA II veterans. Not long ago, countless liberal observers lamented the

prospect of a thousand years of Marcos-Duterte dyad, with Sara Duterte supposedly succeeding Marcos Jr. in 2028, then another Ferdinand Marcos likely taking her place after another six years—and ad infinitum. It was a dangerously intoxicating form of cynicism, which only fueled bitterness and defeatism among some liberal partisans. But as in everything in Philippine politics, life imitates art. Barely a year into President Marcos’ term in office, there was a plot twist. The former president and his diehard supporters ramped up their attacks on the incumbent administration’s key policies, most notably on the West Philippine Sea and China. It didn’t take long before the incumbent vice president, another Duterte, was dragged into the intensifying conflict, culminating in the removal of her indispensable confidential funds. This triggered a new round of spats, which saw no less than the pro-Duterte Sonshine Media Network International media channel emerging as a primary source of opposition to the administration’s key policies. The political infighting was mirrored online: Once unified illiberal bloggers, who formed the information warfare backbone of Dutertismo, split into competing camps and began lashing out at each other with distinct toxicity. In a bizarre

twist of events, the Duterte camp steadily emerged as an unlikely “opposition” force against the Marcos administration. But, dear readers, selfindulgent passivity in face of the UniTeam disintegration is a recipe for disaster. The real opposition, composed of liberal and progressive forces, faces the prospect of getting completely boxed out of the Philippine political landscape for the foreseeable future. The Dutertes are fast emerging as “the” main opposition to the incumbent administration, with several of their senatorial bets performing well in recent surveys. And Sara Duterte remains as the favorite candidate for presidency in the next election cycle. Should the pro-Marcos camp dominate next year’s midterm elections, however, they will likely try to prevent the return of the Dutertes to Malacañang by changing the Constitution altogether. Undoubtedly, the incumbent is a smooth operator. Last year, he expressed skepticism about constitutional change, even if he ran under an avowedly profederalism party. He largely skipped any discussion of constitutional change in his first two State of the Nation Addresses, partly to appease Western partners and disarm liberal critics at home. But as the UniTeam infighting gained steam, Mr. Marcos

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte

reinjected the constitutional change issue into his core policy agenda. His right-hand man in Congress, meanwhile, made it clear that constitutional change will be a top priority in 2024— and likely a reality after the midterm elections. History shows that politics is no friend of any ex-president in the Philippines, unless the successor is a trusted ally. Under a parliamentary system, Mr. Marcos can engineer a smooth transition by mobilizing

sufficient party-based support to a preferred successor, who may not even need to have presidential charisma. This is why it’s extremely important for the real opposition to, against all odds, mobilize support for a few competitive candidates for top legislative positions, especially in the Senate. Surveys show that liberal leaders such as Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Benigno “Bam” Aquino, and Leni Robredo will be competitive candidates.

Malacañang file photo

Otherwise, Sen. Risa Hontiveros will be the only major legislator left to scrutinize any politically motivated constitutional change move next year. What’s at stake is the soul of Philippine democracy. (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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Dateline PhiliPPines

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7

Marcos asks Filipinos to contribute to achieving ‘Bagong Pilipinas’

STORY TIME. Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss tells a story to students of Bagong Tanyag Elementary School in Taguig City on Tuesday, Jan. 9. The story-telling session was part of the inauguration of the Jerusalem Learning Resource Center. PNA photo by Jess M. Escaros Jr.

Gov’t made significant progress in fighting illegal drugs MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday, January 8 expressed elation over the government’s successes in the fight against illegal drugs at the grassroots level. This, after the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that it had confiscated some PHP10.4 billion worth of narcotics in 2023 and cleared large number of communities of drug influence. “Na-ireport ng PNP na (The PNP reported that) we have successfully confiscated an estimated 10.4 billion pesos worth of illegal drugs in 2023. Masasabi natin na 27,968 na barangay ay na-ideklara na na (We can say that 27,968 barangays have been declared) drug-cleared,” President Marcos said in a video message. “Magandang progreso ito sa grassroots level dahil ang mga barangay ay pag nasabi natin ay cleared ‘yan, madali nang i-monitor at maayos na ang patakbo doon. Siyempre, lagi rin natin tinitingnan ‘yung rehab, ‘yung prevention na

hindi na pumasok ‘yung mga kababayan natin sa masasamang ugali tungkol dito sa drugs at kung sino man ang nasubo na ay bibigyan natin ng tulong sa pamamagitan ng mga (It is a good progress at the grassroots level because if a barangay has been cleared, it is easy to monitor and it is well-managed. Of course, we always look at prevention to make sure our people would not go into illegal drugs, if they are already victims, we will help them through) rehabilitation centers,” he added. The national government has made inroads in addressing illegal drugs at the local level and worked with 50 provinces, 1,160 municipalities, and 30 cities in implementing the Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC). “Nakapag-pagawa tayo ng (We constructed) 74 in-patient treatment and rehabilitation facilities to provide a path to recovery for those who want to break free from their addiction,” Marcos said. Aside from confiscating around

MANILA — While the deployment of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) might be back to pre-pandemic levels according to the government, progressive group Migrante said that the data is not something to be proud of. The group had this to say after Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) officer-in-charge Hands Leo Cacdac revealed last Thursday, January 4 that around 2.5 million overseas employment certificates (OECs) and passes were issued to OFWs in 2023. "It is yet another proof that after four years since COVID-19 hit the world, the Philippines continues to fail in creating decent jobs at home," said Migrante in a statement on Saturday, January 6. "It shows that the country under the Bongbong Marcos regime is still not developing its manufacturing and agriculture sectors and is therefore unable to provide employment to Filipinos." OECs are required for all departing OFWs. They also serve as an exit clearance and as an exemption from the payment of travel tax and airport terminal fee. Latest government estimates around 1.96 million OFWs all around the world, an increase of 7.6% in the same period of 2021. It could be remembered that strict travel restrictions were earlier implemented by the government alongside lockdowns to prevent the transmission of the deadly COVID-19 virus. "The 2.5 million overseas employment certificate (OEC) and passes issued by the government in 2023 translates to more than 6,800 Filipinos leaving the country each day," Migrante said. "These figures only mean that the number of Filipinos who are forced to leave their families in the Philippines in order to find employment abroad continues to increase," it added. Minimum wages in Metro Manila are currently pegged at P573 too P610 a day, the highest in

the country. This is far from the "family living wage" of P1,188/ day to support a family with five members. While technically free, some OFWs complain that OECs are uncluded in the documentation fees that they must pay at the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration. Reportedly, DMW's online applications for OECs are malfunctioning, purportedly compelling OFWs to visit Philippine embassies/consulates, leading to potential opportunities for various scams. Illegal trafficking still a problem Migrante expressed disappointment over the absence of acknowledgment regarding the rise in Filipinos falling victim to illegal recruitment and human trafficking. Bureau of Immigration spokesperson Dana Sandoval earlier reported over 6,000 suspected victims of human trafficking and illegal recruitment in the first two months of 2023 alone. The group was also worried about the shortening of accreditation proccess for foreign employers from 20 to 30 days to seven to 15 days, as it might "reduce the standards" for legitimate employers. "The DMW and the Bongbong Marcos regime should seriously reconsider their uncritical celebration of the Philippine government’s labor export program," the group said. Latest figures from the state earlier observed a decrease in unemployment rate (4.2%) and increase in employment (95.8%). However, the quality of jobs available noticeably worsened with underemployment going up to 11.7%. Militant groups and economic think tanks have continously identified genuine agrarian reform and national industrialization as key starting points to generate more jobs. (Philstar.com)

‘Return of OFW deployment to pre-COVID level shows lack of quality local jobs’

Passengers queue at the various gates of the NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City. Philstar.com file photo

PHP10.4 billion worth of illegal drugs and clearing more than 27,000 barangays of narcotics in 2023, the PNP said it also arrested 56,495 suspects after conducting more than 44,000 anti-illegal drug operations. The recent government success was under President Marcos’s new approach to address illegal drugs by focusing on rehabilitation, reintegration, and preventive education programs specifically for the youth. (PNA)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. underscored the role of every Filipino in his administration's goal to achieve "Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines)." In his latest vlog released on Saturday, January 6, Marcos challenged Filipinos to strive to fulfill their respective New Year’s resolutions. Like many Filipinos, Marcos said he also has resolutions he wanted to work on for selfimprovement and change. These include spending more time with his family, maintaining good health, having regular exercise to lessen stress for stronger immunity, and being more cool-headed when it comes to driving. “Pero siyempre, nangingibabaw sa ating New Year’s resolution ang mga mithiin natin sa bayan dahil marami pang kailangang gawin, marami pang kailangan pagandahin, at marami pang kailangan ayusin para naman tuluy-tuloy ang pagsulong natin tungo sa isang Bagong Pilipinas. (But, of course, topping our New Year's resolution is our aspirations for the country because there is still much to be done, a lot to improve, and a lot to fix so that we can continue to progress towards a New Philippines),” the president said. He said individual and community involvement are needed to achieve the administration's goals. He said that aside from the government, he would make sure, with the help of Filipinos, that Bagong Pilipinas will be attained by the nation through “Bagong Pilipino,” citing the significance of everyone’s New Year’s resolutions. Filipinos could start with themselves and their families by observing punctuality, being more productive in their work, and spending prudently. He encouraged Filipinos to improve and develop themselves by reading books, learning new technologies, observing personal grooming and self-discipline, and becoming a good citizen and family member.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Malacañang photo

As the nation observes Community Development Day this weekend, Marcos said it is a reminder of the importance of improving and developing local communities. “Sa mga susunod na linggo ay lalo niyo pang mauunawaan at mararamdaman ang ibig sabihin ng Bagong Pilipinas. (In the next weeks, you will have a better understanding of what Bagong Pilipinas means),” Marcos said. “Papaigtingin natin ang paghihikayat sa lahat na maging bahagi ng pagpapaganda ng ating barangay, siyudad, probinsiya, at ng buong bansa. Dahil walang Bagong Pilipinas kung walang Bagong Pilipino. (We will further encourage everyone to be part of improving our barangay, city, province, and the whole country. There will be no New Philippines without a New Filipino),” he said. (PNA)

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‘DISAPPOINTING,’ ‘CRINGEFEST’, AND ‘HOPEFULLY A TURNING POINT’

Filipino viewers react to Jo Koy’s Golden Globes hosting gig

By KLARIZE MEDENILLA AJPress

ON Sunday, Jan. 7, famed Filipino American stand-up comedian Jo Koy hosted the 81st Golden Globes and the public consensus was clear — he was dreadful. As soon as Koy — who had only gotten the gig 10 days before the ceremony — began his hosting duties, it was clear that Koy and his writing team prepared material that was neither culturally relevant nor decidedly clever. He did not reference the recent writers’ and actors’ strikes — which could have been an easy softball for him in terms of material — but notably, his jokes directed at Taylor Swift and the uber-popular “Barbie” prompted indignation across social media. “As you know, we came on after a football doubleheader. The big difference between the Golden Globes and the NFL? On the Golden Globes, we have fewer camera shots of Taylor Swift, I swear,” Koy said during the show, which was followed by a cut to Swift who appeared unimpressed by the joke. And referencing the two most successful films of 2023, Koy quipped, “‘Oppenheimer’ is based on a 721-page Pulitzer Prize-winning book about the Manhattan Project, and ‘Barbie’ is on a plastic doll with big boobies. The key moment in ‘Barbie’ is when she goes from perfect beauty to bad breath, cellulite, and flat feet. Or what casting directors call character actor!” Acknowledging that the monologue was not going his way, Koy

threw his writing team under the bus in an awkward attempt of self-preservation, ad-libbing, “Yo, I got the gig 10 days ago; you want a perfect monologue? Yo, shut up. You’re kidding me, right? Slow down. I wrote some of these, and they’re the ones you’re laughing at.” Universally panned among critics and across social media, Koy’s monologue at the beginning of the show likely dictated the rest of the show, for which he mysteriously did not reappear. “I had fun. You know, it was a moment that I’ll always remember,” Koy said the morning after the Globes. “It’s a tough room. It was a hard job, I’m not going to lie…I’d be lying if [I said] it doesn’t hurt. I hit a moment there where I was like, ‘Ah.’ Hosting is just a tough gig. Yes, I’m a standup comic but that hosting position it’s a different style. I kind of went in and did the writer’s thing. We had 10 days to write this monologue. It was a crash course. I feel bad, but I got to still say I loved what I did.” Among all American award shows, the Globes are notoriously difficult to nail as a host — see Jerrod Carmichael’s less-than-impressive Globes hosting performance last year and the several times Ricky Gervais hosted and revulsed viewers. It’s a famously boozy event that brings together film and television, two tangential industries that have different personalities and sensibilities, and powerful media tastemakers like Ted Sarandos of Netflix, Bob Iger of Disney and all its properties, and Oprah Winfrey of, well, broad

global influence. Justin Lee, a Filipino and Vietnamese American aspiring stand-up comedian based in Los Angeles, told the Asian Journal that while he understands the challenges of comedy, Koy’s material felt “dated” and “overall, dull.” “I can’t imagine what he was going through because a gig like that can make or break you because there are so many people watching,” Lee said, adding, “his jokes just didn’t reflect” contemporary sensibilities about humor or the current state of American entertainment. “Everyone has their own sense of humor, but I think making a joke about reducing ‘Barbie’ to a movie about a doll with ‘big boobies’ was just uninspired. That part was such a cringefest,” Lee lamented, adding that Koy and his humor seemed “out of place.” To Lee’s point, what makes Koy’s performance so spectacularly bad is that the Globes are so far from his usual milieu. Over the past three decades, Koy built a career based primarily on observational humor tailored toward the Filipino American experience — to strong success among Filipino audiences and beyond. Among the in-jokes about being Filipino American, his bread and butter was always his colorful stories about his mother, which often extended to well-intentioned caricatures of older Filipino women: titas. The relatability factor of Koy’s comedy served him well for years, to the point where his fan base grew and di-

versified. But to go from doing hour-long shows making niche jokes to a dedicated fan base to hosting a major awards show, it’s safe to say that the odds were stacked against Koy in nearly every way. “All of the jokes just felt very first thought, you know, like they didn’t take the time to really refine the script. Very disappointing,” said Melanie Lopez, a Filipino American grad student focusing on media studies. Lopez said that the joke that confused her the most was Koy’s quip about “Oppenheimer” being too long a film. Laughing, Lopez said, “‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ [which was nominated in many of the same categories as “Oppenheimer”] was a longer movie! The jokes just didn’t make sense.” Like many Filipino millennials, Lopez grew up watching Koy’s comedy and while she found him funny years ago, she said his material has gone “stale.” “I think Jo Koy really needs to branch out, and the response from this awards show should be a wake-up call because you could tell he was uncomfortable with the situation. For years, he’s done the same thing, doing ‘if you know you know’ jokes about being Filipino. You can only rely on that for so long before people start to get tired of it, and I think a lot of us Pinoys are tired of it,” Lopez said. Lolita Garcia, a Carson-based mom who used to work in the entertainment industry, expressed pity for Koy, whom she says she still supports. “You know, we as Filipinos

Jo Koy

Photo from Instagram/@jokoy

want to root for people in our community, especially when they’re famous and successful,” Garcia told the Asian Journal, adding that she applauds Koy for acknowledging his lackluster performance. “Yeah, [the monologue] wasn’t great at all, but I think this might motivate him to improve as a comic, which is a really difficult job that I don’t think people really appreciate,” Garcia said. “This is hopefully a turning point for his career.” Even though Koy has been one of the most famous, if not the most famous, comedians of Filipino descent, this flub shouldn’t be seen as a major step back for the Filipino community, said Randy Solar, a Filipino American marketing professional based in

Orange County. “I want better for our community, for sure. But representation is important and I think part of that means that we shouldn’t be so [reactive] when a Filipino doesn’t meet our expectations, whatever they are,” Solar said, adding that he, too, was unimpressed by Koy’s hosting. “Don’t get me wrong, he was terrible. But everyone has off days at work, [and] Koy just had the misfortune of stumbling in front of millions of people,” he said. He added, “I think this just really highlights the need for greater representation and diverse representation within just the Filipino community — so we don’t have to put so much pressure and stock into one person.”

Catriona feels ‘so loved’ after Derrick and Elle continue onscreen chemistry in revenge drama debut-inspired 30th birthday party by JERRY DONATO

by HANNAH MALLORCA

Philstar.com

DERRICK Monasterio and Elle Villanueva showed what they’re made of as a leading man and a promising female star in the drama series Return to Paradise. They clicked with each other on their first team-up, and their onscreen chemistry was undeniably natural. It will be showcased again in the revenge drama titled Makiling, produced by GMA Public Affairs. “Return to Paradise focuses on the romance of Red and Eden. Makiling, on the other hand, is all about revenge, mas may angst, mas may emotion (It has more angst and is more emotional),” responded Derrick to a question from The STAR that asked him and Elle to compare their two GMA Afternoon Prime shows narrative- and theme-wise. Their previous characters Red and Eden were college students who got marooned on an island after a plane crash. In Makiling, Derrick and Elle play the habal-habal driver named Alex and the provincial lass Amira, respectively. Alex is the love interest of Amira in the story. “In Return to Paradise, my character is a very innocent woman. The story revolves around family and the two lovers. In Makiling, my character is also an innocent woman, very naïve, but she learns to stand up for herself,” shared Elle. “She somehow becomes a different person throughout the whole serye.” If Makiling has two acts, viewers will see a dynamic character unfolding right before their very eyes. “I think I like Amira’s story because mapapahalagahan mo yung change (you will appreciate the value of change). The lesson here is that change is good, but it will either make you or break you,” Elle piqued everyone’s interest. Makiling is a follow-up project to Derrick and Elle’s Return to Paradise. Prior to this, she was part of the ensemble cast of Voltes V: Legacy, the local live-action TV adaptation of the Japanese

Inquirer.net

After their successful team-up in Return to Paradise, Derrick Monasterio and Elle Villanueva come together in Makiling to tackle issues about traditional medicine and bullying. Among the lessons viewers can learn from the show is that ‘Change is good, but it will either make you or break you,’ says Elle. GMA photo

animé series. As for the Makiling plotline, it touches on issues such as traditional medicine, bullying, and taking revenge. Elle shared that the country has its own traditional medicinal practices which include “paghihilot at may mga albularyo (massage and herbalism).” “So, I think health is a personal matter, and I think a person should be informed about making choices for themselves. I think it’s also important that they have accessible and affordable healthcare.” Her character, Amira, grows up in a family of herbal healers and carries on the tradition of folk medicine that most people in rural areas are aware of. The story will also see Amira as a victim of bullying when she leaves their town for greener pastures in the city. “Wala po tayong makakamit na maganda sa bullying (nothing good will come out of bullying). Hurt people hurt people,” said Elle. “We are promoting the idea of standing up for yourself. So, I think kapag na-aabuso ka na ng sobra at wala ka nang makakampihan, ang makakampihan mo lang ay ang sarili mo (If someone gets to experience extreme abuse and has no one to turn to, he or she has only himself or herself to rely on).” When the abuse is unbearable, people tend to get back at those who have hurt them. The possible reason for it is, as Derrick put it, “If you feel you’ve done everything to seek justice, but hindi pa rin dumarating sa’yo (but

the latter remains elusive to you).” Asked if they received any specific instructions regarding the portrayal of their characters, Derrick said, “Siguro dapat mafeel mo lang yung character mo and internalize lang talaga, and the script mastery (You should feel and internalize your character. You should also have mastery of the script).” Given what her character has gone through at the hands of bullies called Crazy 5, getting out of Amira is a challenge for Elle. “Kailangan matibay ang mental health mo. Kailangan healthy ka, physically and emotionally (you need to have strong mental health. You have to be physically and emotionally healthy). You should know when to say stop and pause,” said she. How’s Derrick and Elle’s personal and professional lives after their stint in Return to Paradise? “Ayun, naging kami. After Return to Paradise, we developed our friendship into something more, and it’s still growing stronger, and hopefully, endgame na namin ang isa’t-isa,” answered he. According to reports, Derrick and Elle officially became a couple in August of last year. “Very good, actually,” said Elle. “We never did expect that at all, it was like a surprise. It was actually a gift. He is a blessing to me. The shows we have are blessings to us. We are really grateful to GMA and the people that connected us together because naging fruitful siya, eh, hindi lang sa career namin, pati sa personal life namin.”

CATRIONA Gray was over the moon after celebrating her 30th birthday at a debut-inspired party, which marks her final coming-of-age as a single lady. Gray rang in her 30s in a beautiful pink tube dress with fabric flowers by Ulysses Caragayan, in what seemed to be a surprise party at Z.Lounge rooftop bar in Mandaluyong. Photos of the party were shared on her Instagram account last Saturday, January 6. “Feeling so so loved. Thank you [to] everyone who made this surprise celebration/debut/ birthday sooo special. We sang and danced till the early morning,” she wrote. “So excited to be entering this new decade surrounded by such amazing people. Thanks also to everyone who has messaged and made me feel so loved!” The debut-inspired bash also came with the traditional 18 roses and 18 treasures, and

Catriona Gray celebrated her 30th birthday at a debut-inspired birthday party. Photo from Instagram/@catriona_gray

was attended by Gray’s loved ones and close friends including celebrities like Erik Santos, MJ Lastimosa, and Nicole Cordoves. Gray, who was crying in most parts of the ceremony, then thanked her guests for making her birthday special, as seen in a

highlights video on her page. “It’s the people who walk beside you, who cry and celebrate with you, and whom you have fun with, whom you’re vulnerable with, who make life so, so beautiful,” she said. The former beauty queen was welcomed by Milby, who held a flower bouquet, into the events place decorated with flowers, as seen on the Instagram page of celebrity events coordinator Christine Ong. “Miss Universe @catriona_ gray last birthday bash as a single lady. It’s like a debut, since she never had a debut when she was 18 — complete with Roses and Treasures,” she wrote. The first part of the birthday party turned out to be a surprise crafted by Milby with an event coordinator, events stylist, and other suppliers, as seen on Pasigbased photography studio Nice Print Photography’s Tiktok page. “Sam Milby surprises fiancée Catriona Gray with a rooftop debut of her dreams,” Nice Print wrote.

Vilma approves of Kathryn, Nadine for ‘T-Bird at Ako’remake IT’S unknown whether the 1982 film “T-Bird at Ako” starring screen veterans Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos will be remade for new audiences. Still, the possibility of Kathryn Bernardo and Nadine Lustre taking on the lead roles has earned the latter’s approval. During an interview with ABS-CBN News last January 5, Santos was asked who she thinks are the actress who have the potential to become the lead stars should the film be remade in the future. “Sa mga bago? Magagaling sila eh (Among the new stars? They’re all good). Maybe Kathryn,” Santos said in response. When it was suggested in the interview that Lustre was also being eyed as one of the leads, the “When I Met You In Tokyo” star expressed excitement. “Oh, heaven ‘yan! Heaven ‘yang team na ‘yan! Parehas na magaling ‘yan (Oh, that’s heavenly. That team-up is heavenly. They’re both great actresses). But that’s a good pair!” Santos said. The screen veteran also mentioned the time when Lustre expressed her desire to work with the “Dekada ‘70” star, during an interview on the sidelines of the latter’s Best Actress win at the 2022 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). “Uy, si Nadine, isa siya sa nagsabi when she won in last year’s MMFF na kung sino gusto mo makasama, she mentioned ‘Ate V.’ Nadine, if you’re watching, maraming maraming salamat,” she said.

Kathryn Bernardo and Nadine Lustre earned Vilma Santos’ seal of approval to lead the remake of “T-Bird at Ako,” if there’s any. Photos from Instagram/@bernardokath, @nadine

(When Nadine won last year’s MMFF and was asked whom she wants to work with in the future, she mentioned “Ate V.” Nadine, if you’re watching, thank you very much.) “T-Bird at Ako” tells the story of Sylvia (Nora Aunor) who finds herself attracted to Sabel (Vilma Santos) after witnessing the latter’s performance at a local bar. It also stars Dindo Fernando, Tommy Abuel, and Suzanne Gonzales. The movie was considered revolutionary during its time as it premiered in an era where censorship on LGBT-themed movies was prevalent. (Inquirer.net)

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Tragic event leads to a sweet and successful ending on Citizen Pinoy this Sunday DOLORES was petitioned by her U.S. citizen mother in 2003 as a married child under the F3 classification. After 18 long years, the National Visa Center (NVC) notified them they could now start preparing their paperwork.

Unfortunately, events took a bitter turn when Dolores’ husband had a heart attack and passed away a month later. Dolores’ brother, Don, consulted with the Law Offices of Michael Gurfinkel where leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Gurf-

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inkel proposed that they inform the NVC of the husband’s death, so Dolores’ petition could be converted from “married” (F3) to “single” (F1), resulting in visas being immediately available for Dolores and her children. Atty. PAGE 10

10 resources to help entrepreneurs jumpstart their new year’s business resolutions by Elmy BErmEjo

IF your New Year’s Resolution is to embark on your entrepreneur journey, whether it is taking the leap to start your business, open a storefront, or purchase a building, the U.S. Small Business Administration is here to support your journey. The SBA is a federal agency that has been around for 70 years, providing free or low-cost resources to small businesses. As the appointed Regional Administrator for Region 9 by President Biden, I have the honor of working with SBA leadership across California, Arizona, Nevada, Hawaii, and Guam to bring local resources to underserved entrepreneurs. Many start-up business owners use internal funds, such as their personal savings or loans from friends and family, to start a business, and some even use credit cards with high-interest rates. I grew up seeing these challenges with my own family as they started their restaurant business in San Francisco. At SBA, we work with entrepreneurs who may not qualify for traditional bank loans. We sit down and help them prepare a complete business plan including financials, marketing, human resources, bookkeeping, and more. Then we connect entrepreneurs with a lender and provide a loan guarantee at a much lower rate than they would pay with other loans or credit cards. The result is helping more small businesses get started and grow. It’s noteworthy that small businesses contribute to job growth, accounting for two out of three net new jobs. Small businesses provide essential goods and services that enrich our local communities. To assist small business owners in realizing their entrepre-

neurial aspirations, here are 10 resources they can utilize today to make their entrepreneurship dream a success: 10 SBA resources for entrepreneurs 1. Funding: Our Lender Match program, available online, establishes a connection between entrepreneurs and financial institutions that offer SBA-Guaranteed Loans. These loans can be used for business purposes, including operating capital and financing equipment and other long-term fixed assets. 2. Business Plan Development: Small Business Development Centers provide free, individual counseling, affordable training services, market research, and additional resources to support entrepreneurs. 3. Mentoring: SBA resource partners, including SCORE, offer small business owners free mentoring, allowing small business owners to glean insights from individuals who have navigated similar entrepreneurial paths. SCORE is a network of thousands of volunteer business counselors around the country who mentor and educate small business owners. SCORE provides free in-person and online counseling as well as educational workshops. 4. Government Contracts: The federal government uses special programs to help small businesses win at least at 23% of all federal contracting dollars each year. SBA provides several programs to help small businesses win federal contracts. Participating in these programs helps small businesses: Win a fair share of federal contracts; Qualify for exclusive set-aside and sole-source contracts; Partner with established contractors to win contracts; Get business mentoring and education to learn how federal contracting works.

BITTERSWEET GREEN CARD BECAUSE HUSBAND DIED, ON AN ENCORE SUCCESS STORY OF CITIZEN PINOY THIS SUNDAY! Dolores (center) was petitioned by her U.S. citizen mother in 2003 as a married child of a U.S. citizen (F3). Finally, in 2021, the National Visa Center (NVC) notified the family that they could now start preparing their paperwork, even though the priority date was not yet current. However, the husband, who had a heart condition, became excited over the prospect of immigrating to the U.S. and had a heart attack and died. It was a bitter turn of events. Ironically, because of her husband’s death, Dolores’ petition was converted from “married” (F3) to “single” (F1) and it was considered “current”. Leading Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (extreme right) was able to have the case queued for interview and requested expedited processing because the petitioner was already elderly and sickly. The “sweet” outcome of the unfortunate turn of events was that Dolores and her children – Keno (extreme left) and Kobey (2nd from left) – were able to immigrate to the U.S. sooner. Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, January 14 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement) Elmy Bermejo, Regional Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration, Region 9 File photo/www.sba.gov

5. Executive Level Training: SBA’s T.H.R.V.E Emerging Leaders Reimagined program is a no-cost ‘mini MBA,’ an executive-level training series designed to accelerate the growth of high-potential small business owners. We encourage entrepreneurs to reach out to their local SBA office to find out where this program is being offered and apply. 6. Woman Entrepreneurs: Women’s Business Centers play a crucial role in supporting women entrepreneurs in starting and expanding their business, offering a comprehensive array of services catering to women entrepreneurs at every stage of planning, implementation, and growth. 7. Entrepreneurial Programs for Service Members and Military Spouses: Boots to Business (B2B) is an entrepreneurial education and training program offered by SBA as part of the Department of Defense’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP). B2B provides participants with an overview of business ownership PAGE 10

Filing period opens for write-in candidates REDWOOD CITY – The period to file as a write-in candidate for the March 5, 2024 Presidential Primary Election opened on Monday, January 8, 2024. Eligible persons seeking to run as a write-in candidate must file a Statement of WriteIn Candidacy and all other required documentation by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Write-in candidacy documents for the county, school, and special districts are filed at the San Mateo County Registration & Elections Division, located at 40 Tower Road, San Mateo. City write-in candidates must file the paperwork with their respective City Clerk’s office. County, school, and special district candidates may begin the filing process by requesting a registration form by email at CandidateServices@ smcacre.gov. They may also schedule an appointment at smcacre.gov/appointments or walk in to obtain the form and may complete it in person. The

form may also be returned via email to CandidateServices@ smcacre.gov. Upon receiving the submitted form, our office will contact the write-in candidate to schedule an electronic or in-person filing appointment to complete the filing process. Please email CandidateServices@smcacre.gov or call 650.312.5222 with write-in candidate questions and/or to schedule an appointment to review the write-in candidate process and requirements. Potential write-in candidates must file a Statement of Write-In Candidacy, providing the candidate’s name and residential address, a declaration of candidacy for a specifically named office, the specific election date, and a Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700). All documents must be filed at the same time. No filing fee is required. Information concerning qualified write-in candidates, including their names, will not be printed on voting materials provided to voters, such as the Of-

ficial Ballot or the Sample Ballot & Official Voter Information Pamphlet. However, the Roster of Candidates, including qualified write-in candidates, is updated daily and can be viewed online at smcacre.gov. Additionally, a list of qualified writein candidates will be available at Vote Centers beginning Friday, February 23. Early voting period begins February 5 to March 4, 2024 San Mateo County’s registered voters will receive a Vote by Mail ballot in the mail starting February 5, 2024, for the March 5 2024 Presidential Primary Election. Starting February 5, 2024, three Vote Centers will be open through Election Day. Additional Vote Centers will open on February 24 and March 2. For more information, please call or text the San Mateo County Registration & Elections Division at 650.312.5222, or visit smcacre.gov, or follow us on X (Twitter) and Instagram @ smcvote. (SMCACRE Release)

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Your Airspeed: Elevating Philippine logistics to Minding Finances global standards at CES Las Vegas 2024

FOR companies seeking to expand their services, transporting large quantities of products efficiently and cost-effectively is necessary to enter new markets. Airspeed, a Filipino end-to-end logistics company, is proud to offer multimodal solutions that can handle various cargo sizes, making it an ideal choice for businesses dealing with bulk shipments. The company also offers warehousing services, with temperature-controlled environments and advanced security systems to ensure the safe and efficient storage of products. Value-added services such as product assembly, labeling, and repackaging can also be provided to save businesses time and money. Airspeed is a corporate logistics company focused on freight forwarding solutions, customs releasing, customized logistics, warehousing and distribution. With its growing network, Airspeed aims to make it happen to all of its stakeholders, as it has for over 38 years. Founded in 1985 as an international air freight forwarder, Airspeed is now one of the Philippines’ most trusted and fastest-growing logistics brands serving the B2B and B2C markets. For businesses looking to expand into the Philippines, Air-

Atty. RAymond BulAon

At the 2024 CES convention in Las Vegas are Mariz Cariaso Regis, president and CEO, and Thesa Castrojas-Galang, chief marketing officer of AirSpeed International.

speed offers customized solutions to address challenges with customs clearance and transportation. This includes door-to-door delivery and expedited clearance procedures, streamlining operations and reducing costs. As the tech industry continues to grow and expand, international trade will play an increasingly important role in driving innovation and growth. With Airspeed’s expertise and support, businesses can navigate the complexities of global trade with confidence and efficiency. Attendees at the Consumer Electronics Show 2024 in Las Vegas can expect to witness the significance of Airspeed’s contributions to the lo-

gistics industry, making success In their stakeholders’ businesses happen. To inquire for logistics requirements, visit the Philippine delegation booth at Hall D (Booth 56148) and discuss with Airspeed International’s president and CEO Mariz Regis or chief marketing officer Thesa Castrojas-Galang. You can also email info@airspeed.ph for further details. Airspeed can make it happen for you: Visit www.airspeed.ph, or call (02) 8852-7328 to 37; Email us at info@airspeed.ph, and follow on Facebook at www. facebook.com/Airspeedgroupofcompanies.

IRS problems have a way of ruining all aspects of your life. They can take a toll on you financially, emotionally, and physically. When you owe the IRS, you’re always wondering if today might be the day when the IRS shows up at work, your home or your business; or if today might be the day the IRS decides to levy your bank account or garnish your paycheck. Recently, the IRS announced that it will resume all collection activities that they paused during the pandemic. What does this mean for you if you owe the IRS? That means you should be getting a collection letter soon. It’s business as usual again at the IRS, and if your account has been in collection for some time, a big portion of your current balance includes penalties and interest. But how can the IRS expect you to pay all of that when you couldn’t even pay the original amount to begin with? Frankly, the IRS does not care. They want their money and they want it now. And they’ll do everything within their power to get if from you as soon as possible. This is a heavy load to bear every day! So, what should you do if you are in this situation? Should you continue to live in fear and uncertainty, or do you do something about it now to prevent your tax problems from getting worse? Sooner or later, you will need to face the IRS but by then you could owe a lot more for waiting too long with the added penalties and interest I mentioned above. I don’t think this is what you want, is it? The only way to solve your IRS

Worried about IRS tax problems?

problems is to face them head-on and to have a plan of action. And that’s exactly what people lack – a plan. Unfortunately, instead of acting, people bury their heads in the sand, pretending that their IRS problems don’t exist. This is the wrong approach, and your tax problems will only continue to get worse! Your IRS problems will not resolve themselves. And your tax problems are here to stay for the long haul and will only continue to make your life miserable. Unfortunately, there are a lot of unscrupulous companies out there who are more interested in taking your hard-earned dollars instead of offering you the solution that you need. Without knowing anything about your situation, they tell you that you can settle your IRS debt “for pennies on the dollar”. While the IRS has such a program that allows forgiveness of tax debt, it is not for everyone. Don’t fall for that scam. The IRS uses a specific formula to determine the least amount it will accept based on your income and assets. It’s called “reasonable collection potential” which involves taking into account the amount you owe, how much you make, the value of your assets, and how much time the IRS has remaining under the collection statute. Remember that the IRS leaves no stone unturned in trying to collect everything that you owe. I always tell my clients that the IRS is one of the worst creditors that you can have because the government has a lot of weapons in its arsenal to make sure that they get paid. Some people tend to think that if they just ignore the IRS long enough, at some point the IRS will just somehow forget. Trust me, the IRS never forgets. And they will keep adding penalties and interest to what you owe until they find you, your mon-

ey, or your money source. Then it’s payday for the IRS! Believe it or not, even when you retire, the IRS can attack your pension, retirement, and social security check! In other words, you can run but you can’t hide as far as the IRS is concerned. The good news is that there is a better way to live your life other than hiding from the IRS if you owe them money. You don’t need to be always looking over your shoulder for the IRS, wondering what the government will do to you next. You don’t need to get up every morning with this incredibly large problem on your shoulders. The laws have changed over the years and there are laws to protect taxpayers. If you have not filed tax returns in years, remember that the IRS will not even talk to you unless you file those returns first to show good faith. So, if that’s your case, this is a good first step in resolving your IRS tax liabilities. If you need help with your IRS problems, I can help. I will review your case and will help you come up with a realistic plan to get the IRS out of your life once and for all. If you owe the IRS more than $10,000, the consultation is free. *** 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)

Tragic event leads to a sweet and successful... PAGE 9

Gurfinkel also requested expedited processing because the petitioner was elderly and sickly. If something happened to her, the petition could be at an end. The “sweet” ending of this tragic situation was that Dolores and her children, Keno and Kobey, were able to immigrate to the U.S. sooner while the petitioner – Dolores’ mother and the boys’ grandmother – was still alive. Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, January 14 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app. Don Rosete (left) hired leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) to help (Advertising Supplement) with the case of his sister, Dolores (center).

PH BOOTH AT CES 2024 IN LAS VEGAS. The Philippine government, through the combined efforts of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation Inc. (SEIPI) and Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), participated in the Consumer and Electronics Show (CES) 2024 being held in Las Vegas, Nevada from January 9-12, 2024. Described as the world’s largest and most influential tech event, CES showcases companies including manufacturers, developers and suppliers of consumer technology hardware, content, technology delivery systems and more. It also includes a conference program where the world’s business leaders and pioneering thinkers address the industry’s most relevant issues. CES is organized annually by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA). Top photo shows (from left) Janenne Remondino, CTA Sr. Dir.; Dr. Dan Lachica, SEIPI President; DG Theo Panga, PEZA; Usec. Donnet Sahagun, DOST; Kinsey Fabrizio, CTA SVP; Usec. Rafaelita Aldaba, DTI; Asec. Napoleon Juanillo, DOST; and Dir. Emmy Delfin, DICT at the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Philippine booth. Bottom photo shows Earl Cua, Ionics; Trade Commissioner Eric Elnar, DTI; Dir. Emmy Delfin, DICT; Asec. Napoleon Juanillo, DOST; Usec. Rafaelita Aldaba, DTI; Kinsey Fabrizio, CTA SVP, Usec. Donnet Sahagun, DOST; DG Theo Panga, PEZA; Dr. Danilo Lachica, SEIPI President; Cecille Domingo, MERALCO VP; and Mariz Regis, Airspeed President and CEO. AJPress Photos

10 resources to help entrepreneurs jumpstart... PAGE 9 and is open to service members (including National Guard and Reserve) and military spouses. 8. International Market: Export Assistance Centers help small businesses enter the international marketplace. Entrepreneurs can learn how to export, participate in foreign trade mis-

EMPLOYMENT

sions and trade shows, translate websites, and design marketing campaigns. 9. Online Resources: SBA. gov/events includes online resources and information about upcoming webinars to assist entrepreneurs in overcoming common business challenges. 10. Local Support: SBA Dis-

trict Offices can connect you to local SBA resources, mentors, and training. Visit www.SBA. gov for more information. *** Elmy Bermejo, Regional Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Region 9. She oversees the agency’s programs and services in California, Arizona, Nevada, Hawaii and Guam.

SERVICES

Atty. Gurfinkel was able to bring Dolores (center) and her children Keno (extreme left) and Kobey (2nd from left) to the U.S. sooner after the reclassification of Dolores’ petition from F3 to F1.

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PeoPle & events

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 12-18, 2024

PH tourism department presents ‘Love the Philippines’ at SF Ferry Bldg the Philippines” flag), Love The Tradition/Love the Music (in partnership with Philippine Airlines), and Love The Food (an event in partnership with Abaca Restaurant at the Fisherman’s Wharf). “We were lucky enough that the Ferry Building was available for our event, and we brought in a lot of Filipino vendors and partners to put this together,” she said. “We hope to continue the programs in promoting the new campaign and, of course, in promoting the Philippines as a tourism destination,” Tropicales added. In choosing the new campaign, Tropicales explained that “Love the Philippines” applies to everyone – because of the campaign, Filipinos realize and appreciate more the country, the culture, the food, the music, and they, in turn, become ambassadors in promoting the Philippines to non-Filipinos. She revealed that “Love the Philippines” is both a branding campaign and a commitment, saying, “For non-Filipinos and foreigners, when they visit the Philippines, our commitment is they will love it, they will enjoy it, whatever experience they would have whenever they go visit the islands.” Attache Tropicales said that they are all beyond excited and proud of this new campaign as it has evolved into a deeper, stronger and more impactful The well-attended “Love the Philippines in San Francisco” event featured food vendors, campaign from the previous artisans, and other businesses, aside from featured performers and a fashion show. campaign, “It’s More Fun in

THE Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT), in conjunction with local organizations and business, held an event at the iconic Ferry Building along the Embarcadero in San Francisco last December 30, 2023 to celebrate its new tourism campaign. Dubbed as “Love the Philippines in San Francisco,” the event was the culmination of a series of events to promote the new DOT campaign, “Love the Philippines.” “We just launched this campaign in the Philippines in 2023, and later in the year we launched it internationally,” said Tourism Attache Soleil Tropicales, who heads both the Northern and Southern California tourism offices, adding that

they have had activation events in the United States, other parts of the globe (Australia, China, Japan, England) and in locations where there are DOT offices. The iconic Ferry Building, according to Attache Tropicales, was the perfect venue and culminating event for the campaign as it is a go-to place for many locals where they get food and other items. Since early December, the DOT has been hosting events in different locales to promote their new campaign. Among the events that the DOT has hosted include Merkato Philippines, Love Adventure (an event with riders, where they had a motorcycle rally who crossed the Golden Gate Bridge with a “Love

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the Philippines,” and has been embraced by both Filipinos and non-Filipinos. “It’s so easy to say, ‘if you love food, you are gonna love the Philippines, if you love culture, you’ll love the Philippines, you love fashion, you’re gonna love the Philippines… it applies to everyone,” she said. Attache Tropicales, who holds both Hotel & Restaurant Management bachelor’s and MBA degrees, hopes that this new campaign inspires more people to visit the Philippines and add to the country’s tourism The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) booth at the event on the second floor of the numbers, which has bounced Ferry Building. Tourism Director Soleil Tropicales is standing at extreme right. back and is now approaching AJPress Photos by Joseph L. Peralta pre-pandemic levels. “We hope that through this campaign, we can inspire more people to visit and to come back, for those who have been to the Philippines before… (the) tourism industry in the Philippines is really looking good in the coming years as we have surpassed our forecast, and we are looking forward to 2024,” she stated. “Love the Philippines in San Francisco” featured Filipino food vendors and artisans at the marketplace. Among the featured performers at the event were One Vo1ce, Drop N Harmony, DJ Shortkut, Adrian Marcel & CSRB, DJ Umami, Elmer Abapo and Nate Guinto. A Francis Libiran fashion show also took place during the event that was graced by 2022 Miss Universe R’Bonney Gabriel. Among the Filipino merchants at the event were Arkipelago Books, Fancy Headz, Hey Lay!,

The event was highlighted by a fashion show by Francis Libiran featuring Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel as one of the models. Photo courtesy of PDOT

Filipino American girl group One Vo1ce performs for the audience.

Drop N Harmony belts out one of their songs at the event.

Hulma, Ina Sol, JMN Nails, Kokak Chocolates, Kumalma, Kusina, Mango Tours, Mie Makes, Oodaalolly, Para Sa ‘Yo, Rejins, Señor Sisig (which has a location within the Ferry Building), Studio Damili and Teofilo Coffee Co. Lucky patrons won roundtrip tickets from San Francisco to the

Philippines, courtesy of United Airlines, Philippine Airlines and Starlux Airlines, and the DOT distributed giveaway bags to attendees. To learn more about the new tourism campaign, special offers and to get more information, visit www.philippinetourismusa. com. (Joseph L. Peralta/AJPress)

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JANUARY 12-18, 2024 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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