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Duterte gave advice on presidency DATELINE USA With gradual increase in meeting with Marcos - Bong Go of new variant in LA FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

County, layering of safety protections critical for residents

AS multiple COVID metrics continue to decline, the state is lifting the requirements for vaccine and test verification at indoor mega events starting April 1. LA County will align with the state and post an updated Health Officer Order later this week. While we’re encouraged with the progress made, as the BA.2 subvariant gradually increases in LA County, layering in safety measures remains important for protecting residents and workers at elevated risk of severe illness. For the latest measurement period, the week ending February 26th, 6.4% of all sequenced specimens in LA County were identified as the BA.2 subvariant, an increase from the week prior when 4.5% of specimens were identified as BA.2. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the BA.2 subvariant

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NEIL ARWIN MERCADO I n q u i r e r. n e t

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte met with presidential hopeful Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. a few days before the administration party PDP-Laban openly endorsed his candidacy with just a little over a month before the May 9 elections. The meeting was confirmed by longtime Duterte aide, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, who was

present during the meeting held last Sunday, March 20. Go, who withdrew his own presidential bid last year, said the meeting between Duterte and Marcos was “productive,” with the Chief Executive sharing his experiences and giving advice on the presidency. “Maganda naman po ang resulta ng meeting. Medyo matagal-tagal nga ‘yon at talagang ganado ‘yung Pangulo na magkuwento. I think about 80

A N G E L I C A Y. Y A N G

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Elderly Filipina assaulted in New York recovering well, says consul general

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‘Fate had other plans’: Partido Reporma endorses Robredo after Lacson’s resignation

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The 67-year-old Filipino woman who was punched and kicked over 125 times by a male assailant in New York has been released from the hospital and is recovering well, Philippine Consul General Elmer Cato said. “Na-release na sa hospital yung ating kababayan at kausap namin yung kanyang anak at sinabi sa amin na OK naman yung mother niya, she’s recovering well. Nakakakain na raw (She was already discharged from hospital and we were able to talk to her child who said that she’s recovering well. She is now able to eat),” Cato said in a Teleradyo interview. “Although nagpapahinga na, hindi pa sila ready na makiharap pa sa amin at this point (Although she is already resting, her family is still not ready to face us at this point),” he added. Cato said the Philippine Consulate General in New York has offered to extend assistance to the victim, who is a dual citizen and hails from the Ilocos region.

percent ng discussion ay more on si Presidente po ang nagsasalita,” Go said in an interview on Wednesday. (The meeting had a good result. It lasted for a while and the President was enthusiastic to share his exprience. I think about 80 percent of the discussion was President Duterte talking.) “Nagbigay siya ng mga kaunting payo, mga ginawa niya para sa ating bayan ay sana po’y

CRUCIAL PROJECT. President Rodrigo Duterte interacts with Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go while riding the train from Shaw Boulevard Station to Santolan Station following the completion ceremony of the Metro Rail Transit Line-3 rehabilitation project at the Shaw Boulevard Station in Mandaluyong City on March 22. Duterte described the newly-rehabilitated MRT-3 as “proof” that the government is keeping its momentum in improving connectivity and mobility, which is critical in sustaining economic growth and development. Malacañang photo by Toto Lozano

P h i l s t a r. c o m .

MANILA — Partido Reporma said on Thursday, March 24 that it is now backing the bid of Vice President Leni Robredo for the country's highest executive position, noting that her ideals are in line with the political party's thrust. Partido Reporma, founded by ex-Defense Secretary Renato de Villa, earlier supported the presidential bid of Sen. Panfilo "Ping" Lacson who resigned from the party and now runs as an independent candidate. "We reasonably believe that the only realistic option at this point, with roughly a month and a half left, is to converge with Leni Robredo’s campaign. Together, we will pursue the realization of our collective aspirations to improve the chances of ordinary Filipinos at a better life," Partido Reporma President and former House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez said in a statement. Alvarez explained that Robredo is among the candidates who stand out from the rest, even if her survey ratings lag behind the frontrunner. "It is evident that her campaign has gained, and continues to gain, significant traction. There is much potential there. She has also shown that she represents ideals which are substantially in line with

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PH bound by treaty to side with US if Putin destruction of Ukraine spreads by

CRISTINA ELOISA BACLIO I n q u i r e r. n e t

MANILA — As the destruction of Ukraine by Vladimir Putin’s military unfolds before the eyes of millions, the United States went all out in its support for the former Soviet republic, drawing reactions from world leaders, including Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. But where Duterte stood in the con-

flict is still murky although the Philippine ruler has dropped hints. On March 4, Duterte said he believed that the Philippines has to remain neutral but “in the end,” may have to choose sides between Russia and Ukraine. “For me, we should stay neutral. But reality tells me that in the end, we’ll just have to select which side we will be,” Duterte said. While Duterte has yet to be categori-

cal on which side the Philippine government will be, a more recent statement by Manila’s top diplomat to Washington seemed to unveil plans to support one of the countries involved in the war. The country, however, was neither Ukraine nor Russia. Instead, it was the United States, a longstanding ally of the Philippines and now an important supporter of Ukraine. ‘If push comes to shove’

According to Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Romualdez, Duterte said the Philippine government may open its facilities to the U.S. if Putin’s quest to destroy Ukraine spilled over to Asia. “He [Duterte] says he might not be able to go [to the U.S.] but to give them the assurance that if ever it is needed, the Philippines is ready to offer what-

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Telco, airlines now open First of its kind, a new digital bank caters to the financial to full foreign ownership needs of growing Filipino American population in US by

L E I L A B . . S A L AV E R R I A , R O Y S T E P H E N C . C A N I V E L I n q u i r e r. n e t

MANILA — Telecommunica- will now be open to full foreign tions, airlines, expressways and ownership after President Rodritollways, railways, and shipping go Duterte on Monday, March in the country PAGE 4

‘PH economy to grow fastest in Southeast Asia in 2022’ MANILA — The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) of rich nations expects the Philippine economy to grow fastest in Southeast Asia this year, even as its labor market could take time to recover due to the scarring inflicted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In its “Economic Outlook for Southeast Asia, China and India

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D O N N A B E L L E A R AV E L O I n q u i r e r. n e t

FILIPINO Americans can now sign up for the first-ever digital bank built with their cross-border financial responsibilities in mind. BayaniPay has tied up with California-based East West Bank to launch a pioneering neobank that will cater to the banking needs of more than 4 million Filipinos based in the United States. A neobank, also referred to as a challenger bank, is a financial technology firm that partners BayaniPay announced a partnership with East West Bank to bring the first-ever Filipino with a traditional bank to proAmerican neobank to market, offering a digital checking account, a co-branded Visa vide federally insured banking debit card and a lineup of financial services, like zero-fee remittances to the Philippines. services.

Launched on March 16, BayaniPay’s neobank services will include the Easy Digital Checking Account powered by East West Bank, a Visa Debit Card, and zero-fee, faster remittances to the Philippines. Powered by East West Bank, the largest publicly traded bank headquartered in Southern California, BayaniPay users can apply and open a checking account, which will be insured by Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC) up to $250,000. It has no minimum deposit or balance maintenance requirements. Associated with the Easy Digi-

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MARCH 25-31, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588

From The

FronT Page

Duterte gave advice on presidency in meeting... PH bound by treaty to side with US... PAGE 1 ipagpatuloy ng kung sino man po ‘yong magiging susunod na Pangulo,” he added. (President Duterte gave some advice and hopes that his initiatives will be continued by whoever is the next president.) The meeting took place even though Duterte had called him a weak leader, and that he had made a preference for a lawyer just like him. Party decision The meeting happened before the PDP-Laban wing, headed by Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi and chaired by President Duterte, announced that it is endorsing Marcos’ presidential bid. Go said the meeting with Duterte was one of the factors that led to the PDP-Laban wing

endorsement, aside from the various talks and consultations among its members. “Malamang ‘yon po ang naging isa sa naging dahilan, pero dumaan po ‘yon sa konsultasyon at proseso (Perhaps that is one of the reasons but it went through various consultations and processes),” Go said. “It’s a party decision po. So, ibig sabihin dumaan sa proseso, pinag-usapan, nagkonsultasyon sa iba’t ibang miyembro ng PDP at majority ang nakapag-decide kung sino po ‘yung ina-adopt at susuportahan,” he added. (It’s a party decision so this means it went through a process. It was discussed and consulted with the different PDP-Laban members and it majority decided who the party will support.) Go expressed hopes that there will be uni-

ty within PDP-Laban in terms of endorsing candidates in the upcoming elections. “Being a member po ng PDP ay sana iisa po ang magiging direksyon ng lahat ng miyembro ng partido (As a member of PDP, hopefully all members will be in one direction),” Go said. Presidential candidate and senator Manny Pacquiao, who heads the other faction in PDP-Laban, earlier called “trapo” (traditional politician) and stupid the members of the party who are supporting the candidacy of Marcos. Pacquiao said PDP-Laban members should rethink their decision of supporting Marcos Jr. because the political party was established in 1982 to oppose the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos Sr. g

‘Fate had other plans’: Partido Reporma endorses Robredo after... PAGE 1 the aims of Partido Reporma: to reform government and provide a better future for Filipinos," he said. Alvarez said that the party's members and officers will work to ensure to strengthen Robredo's bid for the presidency and will be represented by additional sectors of society, especially those who hail from Mindanao, where the bailiwick of President Rodrigo Duterte is located. Alvarez said that Mindanao "now runs the risk of being neglected again when Duterte steps down from office." Earlier today, Lacson said he is withdrawing from the political party to run as an independent candidate after Par-

tido Reporma's slate in Davao del Norte, led by Gov. Edwin Juhabib — party secretary general — chose to endorse another presidential bet. Meanwhile, Alvarez said that under ideal circumstances, leaders and supporters of other candidates would want to campaign and vote for Lacson, saying that he is "most qualified to be president", citing his record as a public servant. "But the electoral terrain in 2022 is far from ideal, and fate had other plans. Time and context framed the narrative of 2022 in a way that gave traction, rightly or wrongly, to other candidacies instead. This is a difficult fact which takes courage to admit," Alvarez explained.

On Thursday, Commission on Elections (Comelec) Commissioner George Garcia said that a change in a candidate's affiliation after the filing of their candidacy will have no bearing on the candidate. Presidential bets urged to rally behind Robredo Democratic socialist partylist Akbayan on Thursday called on other presidential bets to follow Partido Reporma's recent move and "rally behind the people's popular campaign to elect Leni Robredo as the next president" of the country. "Even as we expect more endorsements for VP Robredo to happen soon from various other political forces and personalities, we call on the other presidential candidates, especially

those who share our advocacy against the return of the Marcoses' legacy of lies, corruption, and plunder, to recognize that VP Robredo is our best chance right now to reassert human rights as a foundation of our society, and reclaim rule of law and democracy," the group said in a statement shared by Sen. Risa Hontiveros' camp. Hontiveros, who is on the Robredo-Pangilinan senatorial slate, is Akbayan chair emeritus. "We encourage [the presidential bets] to move beyond personality politics, cross party lines, and rally behind the people's popular campaign to elect Leni Robredo as the next president of our country," Akbayan said. g

‘PH economy to grow fastest in Southeast Asia in...

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2022” report launched on Tuesday afternoon (Manila time), March 22, the OECD projected 7-percent gross domestic product (GDP) growth for the Philippines in 2022, at the lower end of the government’s 7 to 9 percent target. “The outlook is for robust growth. A faster implementation of investment projects in infrastructure, plus the recovery in cash remittances by overseas Filipino workers constitute upside risks to the forecast, although pandemic-related uncertainties continue to tilt the risk balance to the downside,” the OECD said. The OECD’s estimated real GDP growth in the Philippines this year outpaced the forecasts of 5.2-percent expansion for In-

donesia, 6-percent growth for Malaysia, 3.8 percent for Thailand, 6.5 percent for Vietnam, 3.5 percent for Brunei Darussalam, 4 percent for Singapore, 5.6 percent for Cambodia, and 4.6 percent for Laos. Myanmar’s GDP, on the other hand, was forecast by the OECD to shrink by 0.3 percent. Including other emerging Asia economies, the Philippines’ estimated economic growth this year would also outpace China’s 5.1 percent, but below India’s 8.1 percent. For 2023, the OECD projected the Philippine economy to grow by 6.1 percent, also within the government’s 6 to 7 percent goal. However, the OECD said the COVID-19 pandemic “inflicted substantial damage on labor markets in emerging Asia — this

deterioration has been particularly acute in the Philippines and Vietnam.” Last week, the government conceded that while the 6.4-percent unemployment rate last January dipped to its lowest during this prolonged pandemic, the number of jobless Filipinos would have been smaller than the 2.93 million at the start of this year if not for the stricter restrictions imposed during the Omicron-induced surge in infections. “In terms of individual sectors across emerging Asia, the impact has been especially heavy for the micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises. Sectors of the economy that are especially cyclical, and indeed those that rely on face-to-face interactions, have endured the gravest job losses since the onset of the COVID-19 crisis,” the OECD said. g

PAGE 1 ever facilities, or whatever things that the United States will need, being a major, our number one ally, in using the facilities in the Philippines, without any restrictions,” said Romualdez. “He says if they are asking for the support of the Philippines, he was very clear if push comes to shove, the Philippines would be ready to be part of the effort especially if this Ukrainian crisis spills over to the Asian region,” he added. According to Romualdez, Duterte’s assurance is that the Philippines will honor its Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the United States if the situation warranted it. The MDT, signed between the two nations in 1951, calls for both nations to come to each other’s defense in case of an armed attack. “I’m pretty sure that the President meant this to be an emergency situation where—let’s pray that it doesn’t happen—but if this spreads out into our part, the Asian region, for some reason or another, the President obviously sees the need for us to make a choice and our choices, obviously, since we have an MDT with the United States, we have this special relationship, our military alliance,” Romualdez said. Possible locations Duterte, according to Romualdez, has mentioned that the Philippines would be “ready to open its doors” and allow the U.S. to use facilities that might be needed if an “emergency situation” breaks out. In a more recent statement, Duterte said if Putin launched nuclear weapons to achieve his goal of destroying Ukraine, China, a Russian ally, could start the invasion of the Philippines. According to Romualdez, some of the facilities which the Philippines might allow to be used by U.S. forces could include the former American air and naval bases in Subic, Zambales and Clark in Pampanga. “He said that he is allowing the use of facilities, which I assume would be the use of Clark for instance, for some of the aircraft that the United States may need,” said Romualdez. “And perhaps Subic. We have a repair facility there that is going to be used not only by the United States but by

other countries, Japan, Australia, and other countries. It’s a commercial business. Hanjin is now ready to be opened again for use by many of the ships, both private and military ships or Navy ships that may want to use it for repair or for other activities,” he added. The United States maintained a naval base in Subic until 1991 when the Philippine Senate refused to renew a military bases agreement between the two countries. The Philippine decision also led to the dismantling of a U.S. airbase at Clark, Pampanga province. Subic and Clark have since been redeveloped into free ports, bustling economic hubs that have withstood the pandemic. However, Romualdez clarified that while the Philippine government has expressed its willingness to lend its facilities to the U.S., there is no need to craft a new treaty—which would allow the U.S. to establish military bases in the country. “The bases are no longer there. In other words, if the U.S. will need our facilities, it will only be temporary,” he said in an interview over radio station dzBB last March 14. “Most likely it’s only for their supplies or an area in Subic where they can repair their ships,” he added. Divided views Duterte’s statement expressing possible support to the U.S. amid Putin’s destruction of Ukraine, however, was met with mixed reactions. In a statement, Sen. Leila de Lima slammed what she described as “an irresponsible and premature statement” on the Philippines’ supposed role should Putin’s destruction of Ukraine spill over to Asia. According to De Lima, such a statement “engenders an escalation in the language of the conflict” and such is not yet being discussed by leaders of Europe and the U.S. “The Philippine government should not be issuing statements that are counter-intuitive to conflict resolution and which almost amount to sabre-rattling. The call of NATO and the U.S. is for peace and the withdrawal of Russian forces,” the senator said. “For the Philippines to be talking about its role in the event of the expansion of the conflict,

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WRIT OF MANDAMUS. Officials of National Press Club (NPC), Guardians Brotherhood, and Automated Election System (AES Watch) show copies of the petition they filed at the Supreme Court on Wednesday, March 23, seeking a writ of mandamus to compel the Commission on Election to their constitutional obligation and legal mandate to ensure the conduct of a free, credible, and transparent May 9 elections. In photo are (from left) Guardians Brotherhood national treasurer Iniego Irio, Prof. Noel Celiz of AES Watch, legal counsel Yesther Donn Baccay, NPC president Paul Gutierrez, and Guardians Brotherhood secretary general Gregorio Esperanzate. PNA photo by Avito Dalan

PH bound by treaty to side with US... PAGE 2 while NATO is even steadfast in its own outright refusal to put NATO boots on Ukrainian soil, only reflects Duterte’s ‘utak pulbura’ world-view,” she added, using a Filipino term for war freak. De Lima, a staunch critic of Duterte, also said that by issuing the statement, Duterte might be putting the U.S. on the spotlight if indeed the U.S. is also projecting a worldwide conflict arising from Putin’s aggression. “Of course, the U.S. is not expected to respond to Duterte’s invitation, premature and irresponsible as it is in light of the critical nature of the U.S. relations with Russia as of present,” said De Lima. “Southeast Asia as of now is still very remote from the conflict, other than feeling the war’s economic repercussions,” she continued. “To talk about Philippine involvement means that the conflict has already expanded to other parts of NATO Europe and the U.S., for the Philippines to be taking into consideration its defense arrangements with the U.S. This also means that the conflict has approached a global scale, heading towards a third world war,” she added. On the other hand, Sen. Panfilo Lacson said he believed that the Philippines must be “fully prepared” for a possible spillover of Putin’s aggression to Asia. Lacson said the Philippines must walk the talk, given that the Philippines has already supported the United Nations General Assembly resolution condemning

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Aside from the economic consequences of Putin’s aggression—which are already being felt in the Philippines through oil prices–it is not yet clear what consequences the Philippines might suffer once the U.S. finally uses facilities in the country, as Duterte has stated. However, early on, Putin has already made a clear and chilling warning against countries that will provide aid and support to Ukraine as his forces push forward to the former Soviet republic as part of what the dictator described as a “special military operation.” “We are ready for any turn of events. All necessary decisions in this regard have been made. I hope that I will be heard,” he added. Despite Putin’s warning, however, U.S. President Joe Biden and U.S. allies imposed a series of swift and sweeping sanctions against Putin and Russia for the invasion of Ukraine. These tough penalties by the U.S., as well as its Western allies, aimed to impose extreme economic costs on Russia and its people. The U.S. has also been sending military support to Ukraine since the attacks started last Feb. 24, which included so-called lethal aid or weapons. Last March 17, Biden approved an additional P41.9B ($800M) for its military aid package to Ukraine, bringing the cost of total U.S. security aid to Ukraine since the Putin invasion began to P52B ($1B). The lethal aid included sophis-

ticated weapons like the Javelin shoulder-fired anti-tank missile system and the Stinger shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missile system. Both weapons systems had been described as “fire and forget” because of the ease with which these could be launched by a single soldier and their accuracy. For the first time, Biden also called Putin a “war criminal.” A few days earlier, on March 11, the U.S. Senate approved the P712B ($13.6B) emergency military and humanitarian aid package for Ukraine and its European allies—P340B will be given to the Pentagon while P350B will go to care for refugees. So far, Russia has only produced and approved a list of countries and territories that have conducted “unfriendly actions” against Russia and its citizens over Putin’s bid to destroy Ukraine. On the list, according to a report by Al Jazeera, were Albania, Andorra, Australia, Great Britain, including Jersey, Anguilla, British Virgin Islands, Gibraltar, European Union member states, Iceland, Canada, Liechtenstein, Micronesia, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, South Korea, San Marino, North Macedonia, Singapore, United States, Taiwan, Ukraine, Montenegro, Switzerland, and Japan. Tension continued to escalate between the Russian government and the U.S. as concerns were expressed over Chinese military aid to Putin, a close ally of Chinese President Xi Jinping. g

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MARCH 25-31, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588

Pfizer CEO pushes yearly shots for COVID. Not so fast, experts say supporting data — have created pressure for politicians and their scientific advisers to act. Last summer, Bourla announced the likely need for an initial booster in April 2021, then, in August, President Joe Biden promised the first booster shots would be available to all adults starting the following month. “That created an expectation that everyone would get their slice of yummy chocolate cake,” Moore said. “Who wants to be ‘the cake nazi’ and say, ‘No cake for you?!’” Although FDA and CDC expert panels, and some federal scientists, were hesitant about recommending the first booster for younger populations, the agencies overrode their advice and approved boosters for everyone 12 and older. That continues to be a sore point with many immunologists and infectious disease specialists. ‘’The last thing we need is to have corporate CEOs in March saying this is what you need in December because ‘we know,’” Moore said. “How do you know?” CEO announcements have often been made CELEBRATION. Colorful confetti rain on couples after their mass wedding at the Caloocan Sports Complex on Sunday, March 20. A total of 700 before scientific evidence supporting the claims has pairs took advantage of the free ceremony initiated by the local government and Philippine Statistics Authority. PNA photo by Ben Briones been publicly released, meaning scientists have not had time to evaluate their validity. The desire to react to growing signs of infection is understandable but may be futile in the face of a virus that seems to infect even the well-vaccinated. If we PAGE 1 Only 30% of children ages 5-11 the next couple of weeks to get keep chasing the virus with boosters, “we’re going to now accounts for 23% of all se- are fully vaccinated, the lowest to up to date on their vaccines. be making the drug companies very happy, since our quenced specimens nationally, of any age group, compared with Waiting until we start seeing antibodies will go down every four months,” said Dr. with the Northeast region seeing 85% fully vaccinated youth ages increases in cases is not optiPaul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center higher percentages than other 12-17. mal, since once there are more at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. regions. For example, New York As of March 13, 55% of Black people testing positive, there is But whether those levels are a good measure of City reported that the Omicron residents and 59% of Latinx already more community transprotection — especially against serious disease, and subvariant BA.2 accounts for residents are fully vaccinated, mission.” in which populations — is an open question. The nearly 30% of cases. The BA.2 compared with 73% of White Public Health reported 565 answer is important because, like all vaccines, there subvariant also accounts for residents and 82% of Asian new positive cases on Sunday, is a small risk of adverse reactions from each shot. over 20% of the cases in the residents. with an additional 370 positive There’s some disagreement among experts on Midwest, with 20% identified There are also certain geo- cases today, and 29 new deaths how well COVID vaccines to date have prevented se- as BA.2 in Chicago. graphic regions with lower vac- for Sunday and today. Today’s rious disease in healthy young people, and whether Although LA County has iden- cination coverage than others, case and death numbers reflect and how often they should be boosted. tified a lower percentage of cas- including parts of the San Gabri- delays in weekend reporting. While a recent CDC study showed an increased es to date associated with BA.2 el Valley, South Central LA, and Of the 29 new deaths reported risk of hospitalization among people ages 18 to 49 when compared to some other the Antelope Valley. As of Feb- today, one person was between several months after second and third vaccine doses, cities, this is a similar pattern ruary 27, there were also signif- the ages of 30-49, six were the data categories in the study aren’t fine-grained as seen with previous new virus icant gaps in booster coverage between the ages of 50-64, six PAGE 5 strains and residents should be with only 31% of residents five were between the ages of 65-79, prepared to mitigate the risk of and older living in low-resourced and 16 were aged 80 years or increased transmission associ- communities receiving a booster older. Of the 29 newly reported ated with this more infectious dose, compared with 43% of deaths, 27 had underlying health subvariant. residents five and older living in conditions. To date, the total PAGE 1 products and services to serve a Centers, PinoyCenters, Palawan Efforts to slow transmission better resourced communities. number of deaths in LA County tal Checking Account, BayaniPay whole new group of customers.” Pawnshop, Banko Mabuhay, Vil- remain a priority, particularly “As always, we extend our is 31,491. Moreso, BayaniPay customers larica Pawnshop, RD Pawnshop, by increasing vaccination and deepest sympathies to everyone will also offer an East West Bank Public Health has reported a co-branded Visa debit card that can also continue to enjoy its Card Bank, Bank of Florida, booster coverage, as data has mourning the loss of a loved one total of 2,825,423 positive cases can be used at retailers and core features — market-leading QCRB and Rang-ay Bank. shown that these approved from COVID,” said Dr. Barbara of COVID-19 across all areas of Asked how fool-proof is their vaccines provide significant Ferrer, director of public health. LA County. Note that 1,157 adin-network automated teller ma- exchange rates and zero-fee chines (ATMs) across the U.S. remittances, now completed in system, Damarillo assured that protection against variants. “The increasing presence of ditional cases have been added The company said soon, the debit real-time — when they apply and all BayaniPay services will unAs of March 17, 83% of LA the highly transmissible BA.2 to the cumulative total of positive card will provide cash back and are approved for the Easy Digital dergo a rigid KYC (know your County residents ages five and subvariant in many regions of cases due to a backlog of cases customer) safety check to ensure older had received at least one this country reminds us that from the surge. Almost all of Checking Account. other rewards on purchases. Offering competitive exchange seamless and secured digital dose of the COVID vaccine and we need to remain vigilant and the backlog cases these past Many immigrants continue to choose to keep their funds rates, Damarillo said, is a com- banking transactions for all app 75% were fully vaccinated. prepared for the possibility of two weeks have been reported in cash because of the barri- mitment made possible by Baya- users. Additionally, 57% of eligible more cases in the near future. from two labs. The California “We are backed by two big residents ages 12 and older And while discouraging to face Department of Public Health is ers associated with traditional niPay’s strategic partnership banking, including high fees and with East West Bank and BDO banks. On the U.S. side, its FDIC received the additional protec- this possibility, the best way to aware of these reporting delays paperwork-heavy application Unibank Inc., the largest uni- insured up to $250,000 and in the tion of a booster. This leaves blunt another surge in cases which affect case counts across versal bank in the Philippines, Philippines, its Bangko Sentral about 2.6 million booster-dose from increasing hospitalizations many parts of the state. Today’s processes. The latest data shows that the through its subsidiary BDO ng Pilipinas (BSP) insured. At the eligible residents not benefiting and deaths is to increase vacci- positivity rate is 0.6%. estimated 4.2 million U.S.-based Remit (USA) Inc. By connecting two ends, it’s highly secured to from the extra protection of a nation and booster coverage. There are 404 people with Filipinos account for $145 billion two banks, BayaniPay is able to begin with and guaranteed by the booster dose. Given the compelling evidence COVID-19 currently hospitalor 14.4% of the $1.3 trillion take out the middlemen common federal governments,” he said. With gaps in coverage by race/ that the vaccines continue to ized. Testing results are availAsian American spending power in many remittance services, “The transmission is between a ethnicity, age groups, and geog- protect against all variants, and able for more than 11,615,300 bank and a bank and the likeli- raphy, there are many pockets of their wide availability, residents individuals, with 22% of people Damarillo added. in the U.S. There’s the agent that collects hood of the money going away vulnerability across the county. and workers are urged to use testing positive. (AJPress) “Despite their significant market size and buying power, no the cash, the bank that stores it, is very less. In addition to that, bank has catered to their finan- and somebody in the middle in we’ve shown you the biometric cial needs and responsibilities the forex and the other side in KYC that makes it more secure both here and in the Philippines,” the Philippines that you pay for because of the facial recogniBayaniPay chief executive officer distribution. If you limit that to tion. No remittance companies director Ebb Hinchliffe said in a Lopez said. Winston Damarillo said during East West Bank in the U.S. and do that, I think we’re one of the PAGE 1 “I am confident that we can the company’s press launch on BDO in the Philippines, it’s point- first ones that had it,” he added. 21 signed into law Republic Viber message to the Inquirer. “There are several U.S. com- make economic recovery hapAsked about their future ex- Act No. 11659 amending the Wednesday, March 16 in Los to-point,” Damarillo said. BayaniPay is able to offer ze- pansion plans, Phillip, Thong, 85-year-old Public Service Act panies [which I’m] not at lib- pen in the Philippines this year. Angeles. erty to name at this time that With the amended [PSA], we Damarillo, a serial entrepre- ro-fee remittances because “the vice chairman of the BayaniPay (PSA). The amendment excluded are waiting for the bill to be expect the entry of new foreign neur with three Silicon Valley customer now is doing every- board, said after saturating the exits, shared how BayaniPay thing themselves, by using their U.S. market, they would even- these economic sectors from signed. Add this to the CREATE investors and the introduction of came about based on his expe- apps. Now our job is to bridge tually offer their digital platform the definition of public utility in (Corporate Recovery and Tax modern and new technologies in rience migrating to the United the two banks and provide the services to other countries with the PSA and are thus no longer Incentives for Enterprises) bill, these sectors,” he said. Retail trade easing States and having to adapt to the very powerful and secure appli- large Filipino immigrant popula- subject to the 40-percent foreign retail trade bill, the amendments The amendment of the PSA tions like Canada. ownership cap on public utilities to the FIA (Foreign Investments cation,” he added. country’s banking system. Act), and now PSA, this has completes the three foreign BayaniPay, which entered the under the 1987 Constitution. In line with this, BayaniPay has “As an immigrant myself, I’ve The amended PSA limits pub- been a very business-friendly investment liberalization bills had firsthand experience with also partnered with Seafood City, market in November 2021 offerhow financial services for global the largest Filipino-run super- ing remittances, was formed in lic utilities to the distribution Congress and administration,” pushed by the Duterte economic team instead of amending the professionals were solely lacking market chain in the U.S. with an partnership with Talino Ventures and transmission of electrici- he said. The Joint Foreign Chambers economic provisions of the 1987 or came with high fees. That’s average of about 1 million visits Labs, the Asian Journal, and ty, petroleum and petroleum why we created BayaniPay,” from customers every week. The Wavemaker Partners. (The Asian products pipeline transmission (JFC), which groups nearly all Constitution, which would have startup currently has activation Journal is a partner of BayaniPay systems, water pipeline distri- foreign companies operating in taken a longer time and has been he said. East West Bank executive vice booths in stores across Califor- but maintains editorial indepen- bution and wastewater pipeline the country, has described the controversial despite attempts systems, seaports, and public amended PSA as a game-chang- to amend only its economic president and chief operating nia with ambassadors who are dence.) ing law. provisions—among the most “It is beneficial not only to utility vehicles. officer Parker Shi said this is helping customers sign up with According to JFC, this would restrictive in the world that has overseas Filipino families but The president thanked Conthe first time that the bank will their accounts. With a minimum remittance of also to the Philippine economy. gress for approving the measure match the foreign investment made the Philippines a laggard make its digital banking platform available to enable banking as a $99 and maximum daily trans- For all these things, the arrival that he said would help lead the policies of Singapore, Thailand, in attracting foreign investments in Asean. action of $1,999, remittances of BayaniPay is such a wonderful country toward economic recov- Vietnam and Indonesia. service. It also complies with comIn April last year, President “As a premier financial bridge through BayaniPay can be re- thing. But what makes it more ery amid the pandemic. “I believe that through this mitments the Philippines made Duterte urged Congress to fastbetween the United States and ceived within 24 hours or less remarkable is that it was develAsia, we have developed robust —or 12 hours or less with the oped by Filipinos for overseas law, the easing of foreign equity in the Asean Comprehensive track three bills that would Filipinos,” said Philippine Consul restrictions, we will attract more Investment Agreement to open further open up the econodigital banking capabilities to digital bank account. Remittances can be claimed General Edgar Badajos during global investors, modernize investment in services to other my to more foreign investors meet our customers’ cross-borseveral sectors of public service, members of the Association of and, according to his economic der needs,” Shi said. “We intro- through major Philippine banks Wednesday’s launch. BayaniPay will initially be and improve the delivery of es- Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) managers, help the economy duced direct-to-consumer digital or any 1,400 BDO branches, banking services to provide 4,400 BDO Unibank ATMs, or available to California residents sential services,” Duterte said. as part of the Asean Economic recover from pandemic-induced recession. “It is also expected to gener- Community. customers around the world with over 8,000 BDO Cash Agad out- sending money to the Phil“We pledge our efforts to In an April 12, 2021, letter to comprehensive solutions that lets; plus rural banks, pawnshop ippines. The company plans ate more jobs for Filipinos, imfit their lifestyle. This partner- partners, and Cash Pick UP Any- to offer its financial services prove basic services for Filipino bring the reform to the attention Senate President Vicente Sotship enables fintech providers where locations including: BDO to other states in the coming consumers, and allow for the of firms in our member-coun- to III and Speaker Lord Allan exchange of skills and technol- tries in the United States, Aus- Velasco, the president said he like BayaniPay to embed our branches, SM Forex, Business months. g ogy with the country’s foreign tralia-New Z ealand, Canada, certified the immediate passage Korea, Japan and Europe. We of amendments to the PSA, the partners,” he added. Ranked as the third most re- will encourage them to invest FIA, and the Retail Trade Liberstrictive economy in the world in the Philippines and support alization Act. The team had argued that [where the next incident will happen],” he added. based on the 2020 Organization better public services for the PAGE 1 Cato then advised Filipinos to exercise caution, for Economic Cooperation and Filipino people with capital and foreigners’ bigger participation in local industries would not “Sinabi naman sa atin na sasabihin naman nila especially when taking the subway. Development (OECD) report, the technology,” JFC earlier said. Trade Secretary Ramon Lo- only further promote domestic kung ano yung maaaring maitulong natin sa kanila “Because marami pa ring mga homeless, maram- Philippines will benefit from the (They told us that they will inform of any assistance ing mga mentally disturbed individuals, maraming amended PSA as it will attract pez, who is also chair of the competition but also create they may need),” he added. individuals with criminal records na pakalat kalat foreign capital, generate more Board of Investments, had also more jobs. The amended FIA is posiAccording to Cato, the suspect responsible for pa rin sa siyudad (Because there are still a lot of jobs, and introduce innovation said that such an amendment to the attack was immediately arrested after the homeless people, mentally disturbed individuals and that can lead to improved qual- the PSA would pave the way for tioned to attract more foreign incident. many individuals with criminal records roaming the ity and lower prices of public more foreign investments in the investments amid the COVID-19 Philippines. pandemic as it provides less “Yung suspect is staying in the same building, city),” he added. services. “Foreign equity restrictions stringent requirements for posame apartment building at ito ay may criminal reFor Filipino tourists in New York, Cato also reMore jobs, lower prices cord at may history rin ng mental health problems minded them to be “extra vigilant, especially when The American Chamber of will be eased, which will at- tential foreign investors to enter (The suspect is staying in the same building, same [they’re] out there on the streets.” Commerce of the Philippines tract more global players that the Philippine market. The proposed amendment apartment building and he has a criminal record and “Even here in Manhattan na sentro ng New York (AmCham) on Monday said the will modernize several sectors has a history of mental health problems),” he said. City, marami ring nagaganap na mga Asian hate signing of the amended PSA, as such as telecommunications, to the retail trade law seeks to Earlier, Cato described as an “unspeakable crimes. They should be aware of their surroundings well as the earlier enactment of shipping, airlines, railway, and bring down the ceiling for the act” this latest incident of Asian hate crime in and use common sense (Even here in Manhattan, investment-easing measures, subways. Similarly, there will capital required of foreign-led New York. which is the center of New York City, a lot of Asian made the Duterte administration be increased competition in retailers to set up shop in the terms of services and products Philippines. There have been 26 anti-Asian attacks involving hate crimes have occurred, so they should be aware “very business-friendly.” Duterte signed RA 11595 Filipinos in New York and surrounding areas in the of their surroundings and use common sense),” he “AmCham is thrilled that the which will generate better qualpast year, Cato said. said. bill is being signed today. It is a ity of services and competitive amending the Retail Trade LibWhile authorities in the United States are “doing Cato said the consulate together with the Filipino major legislation that will further pricing to the benefit of the eralization Act of 2000 in Janutheir best” to address the rise in Asian hate crimes, community will hold a webinar to teach Filipinos open up the Philippines for more consumers. Higher investments ary 2022, while RA 11647, which “they cannot be everywhere,” said Cato. about basic and practical self-defense skills. (Chris- foreign investment which will will also generate more jobs amended the FIA of 1991, was “We don’t know kung saan yung next incident tia Marie Ramos/Inquirer.net) create jobs,” AmCham executive and income for the people,” signed last March 2. g WHEN Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said March 13 that all Americans would need a second booster shot, it struck many COVID experts as a self-serving remark without scientific merit. It also set off spasms of doubt over the country’s objectives in its fight against the coronavirus. The decision on how often and widely to vaccinate against COVID-19 is part science, part policy, and part politics. Ultimately it depends on the goals of vaccination at a time when it’s becoming clear that neither vaccines nor other measures can entirely stop the viral spread. On March 15, Pfizer made a more limited request of the FDA, seeking authorization of a second booster only for people 65 and older. Advisers for the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are likely to approve a fourth shot for people in that age group because they’re the group most likely to be hospitalized or die of COVID. Pfizer competitor Moderna on March 17 also filed for a second booster shot, although its application extended to all adults. The vaccines’ protection against COVID infection generally wanes within several months in all age groups. But experts disagree on whether frequent boosters, especially for younger people, can do anything about that. Two or three vaccinations protect most people from serious disease — but do relatively little to prevent infection, which is generally mild or asymptomatic, after three or four months. Statements like Bourla’s create public pressure for a fourth dose that could force the Biden administration’s hand before government experts have time to assess the evidence, said John Moore, professor of microbiology and immunology at Weill Cornell Medical College. It appears to be based on a yet-to-be-peer-reviewed Israeli study that examined patients only a few weeks after they had received their fourth dose of vaccine. The limited scope of the data raises questions about the duration of that protection, said Dr. Phil Krause, a former deputy director of the FDA’s biologics center. Krause helped lead the agency’s COVID vaccine reviews before resigning last fall. Throughout the pandemic, repeated public proclamations by pharmaceutical company executives — broadcast widely via the media, often without

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5

Smartmatic assures ‘2022 PH elections are 100% safe and secure’

MANILA — Smartmatic Inc. assured Monday, March 21 that the local and national elections in May would be “100 percent safe and secure.” This, as it insisted that its system was not “hacked” amid allegations of a security breach supposedly involving one of its employees. “The 2022 Philippine national and local elections are 100 percent safe and secure, and remain unaffected despite the noise being generated by disinformation campaigns, non-verified sources, and even fabricated and manipulated information,” said Smartmatic representative Atty. Christopher Ocampo during a briefing before the House committee on suffrage and electoral reforms. Senator Imee Marcos, chairperson of the Senate electoral reforms committee, earlier said that there had been a “very serious” security breach in the operations of Smartmatic allegedly involving one of its employees who had access to confidential information. Marcos said contents of the laptop of a Smartmatic employee were copied by a certain group. She cited a Facebook post where various pieces of information, including that of Comelec staff, were released. Ocampo, however, insisted that the incident “doesn’t deserve to be called hacking.” “Please note, too, that Smartmatic’s system wasn’t hacked. What the former employee did is wrongdoing completely unrelated to Philippine elections and doesn’t deserve to be called hacking,” Ocampo said. “He downloaded non-sensitive, day-to-day

operational materials from a repository that is readily available to all Smartmatic staff. He then shared it with individuals outside the company, who have attempted to blackmail Smartmatic for money,” he added. Moreover, Ocampo said that there was also no hacking of the infrastructure of the Commission on Elections (Comelec). According to Ocampo, Comelec’s own servers and infrastructure are completely separate and distinct from Smartmatic’s. “Comelec’s servers and infrastructure are never connected to Smartmatic’s servers and infrastructure. The poll body never shares electoral data with Smartmatic, a fact that Comelec has affirmed and reaffirmed time and again,” he explained. “The NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) itself has also publicly stated that Comelec’s servers are offline and under heavy security. It has categorically and emphatically stated that there has been no hacking of the Comelec infrastructure,” he added. Ocampo also said: “Any which way you look at it—the election is safely above the fray.” The Smartmatic representative requested that statements on the alleged data breach be verified first, pointing out that the source of the issue is a Facebook page. “We humbly believe that giving credence to anonymous groups such as this without proper verification may have the same effect as believing in fake news, as this is clearly a dubious source,” Ocampo said. (Neil Arwin Mercado/Inquirer.net)

U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 (VMM-363), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, arrive at Subic Bay International Airport ahead of Balikatan 22 in the Philippines. Photo courtesy of the U.S. Embassy in Manila

8,900 US and PH troops join forces for Balikatan by

John Eric MEndoza I n q u i r e r. n e t .

MANILA — A total of 8,900 members of the Philippine and American military will join forces for the upcoming Balikatan exercises this year, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Tuesday, March 22. The largest military exercises of the two longtime allies will take place over Luzon from March 28 to April 8, the AFP said in a statement. AFP said some 3,800 military

personnel and 5,100 U.S. military forces will train to “to expand and advance shared tactics, techniques, and procedures that strengthen our response capabilities and readiness for real-world challenges,” according to Major General Jay Bargeron, 3rd Marine Division Commanding General. This year’s Balikatan is much bigger than 2021, which only saw some 1,000 Filipino and American troops. g

Pfizer CEO pushes yearly shots for COVID. Not so fast... PAGE 4 enough to show whether many of those who suffered severe disease had comorbidities such as chronic disease or obesity, Offit said. But others argue there’s enough evidence to show that yearly vaccines, perhaps in combination with influenza vaccinations, would be the best solution. “Given how safe the vaccines are and how effective they are, I think it probably does make sense for people to get a booster, and the most convenient would be once a year,” said Dr. Otto Yang, an infectious disease specialist at UCLA. If COVID turns out to be seasonal, peaking in winter months, vaccination in the fall would provide decent protection, he said. “We are bound to need another booster. We just don’t know when or for which variant,” said Dr. Daniel Douek, chief of the

human immunology section at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. The coronaviruses that cause about a third of all common colds appear to infect people as frequently as once a year on average, said Stanley Perlman, a coronavirus expert at the University of Iowa. Vaccines could never prevent all those infections, yet the federal approach has largely acted as if this were feasible, Offit said. “We’re coming off two years where we treated this virus like smallpox, isolating anyone with mild illness, even asymptomatic people,” he said. “That’s going to have to change. Because neither vaccination nor natural infection is going to protect you from mild illness for a longer period of time.” It’s important for U.S. health officials to have and share with

the public some clarity about the goals of the vaccination program, said Dr. Luciana Borio, a former FDA and National Security Council official who is now a senior fellow for global health at the Council on Foreign Relations. “We need people to understand that protection against all illness is not long-lasting, instead of thinking the vaccine is not working.” “The goal is not to stop transmission, it’s mainly to protect the vulnerable at this point,” said Dr. Norman Hearst, a family physician and public health researcher at the University of California-San Francisco. How, in the absence of perfect vaccines, we will protect the vulnerable remains a conundrum. Borio argues that we need systems to rapidly test elderly and immunocompromised people for COVID

and quickly give them treatment if their results are positive. But this is more easily said than done, Hearst said, since people rarely seek medical help for upper respiratory diseases until the illness is too developed for antiviral drugs to work; antivirals generally work best, sometimes only, if they are taken within a few days of onset of symptoms. For the time being, all debate on a second booster is moot, said John Wherry, chair of the Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics at the University of Pennsylvania. Unless Congress reverses itself and decides to give the administration more money to fight COVID, there won’t be any free vaccines — or free COVID treatments — available to the public next fall.

“We have an acute budgetary problem and we’re not yet out of the woods,” Wherry said. COVID numbers are spiking in Europe again, and concentrations of the virus in wastewater are starting to multiply in some areas of the U.S., indicating that a loosening of COVID restrictions may be causing spread among those who weren’t infected during the omicron wave in December and January. Offit, a vaccine inventor and longtime champion of vaccination, cautions against leaning too hard on COVID boosters for answers. “What’s our response going to be if we have another variant like omicron that sweeps across people who got two or three doses?” he asked. “Will we accept this, and say, ‘OK, calm down?’” (Arthur Allen/Kaiser Health News)

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of San Diego (City) is seeking to receive Electronic Bids for the below named Public Works project. The solicitation, including plans and specifications, may be obtained from the City’s website at: https://www.sandiego.gov/cip/ bidopps Contractors intending to submit a Bid must be prequalified. Please refer to the solicitation for instructions. Project Name: Miramar Reservoir Pump Station (MRPS) Improvement Project Project Number: K-22-2058Estimated Value: DBB-3 $10,400,000.00 Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting: 04/06/22 at 10:00 A.M. (Virtual) Bid Open Date: 04/29/2022, at 2:00 P.M. License Requirement:A It is the policy of the City of San Diego to encourage equal opportunity in its Construction and Consultant contracts. Bids or proposals from local firms, small, minority-owned, disabled, veteran-owned, and womenowned businesses are strongly encouraged. Contractors are encouraged to subcontract with and/or participate in joint ventures with these firms. The City is committed to equal opportunity and will not discriminate with regard to race, religion, color, ancestry, age, gender, disability, medical condition or place of birth; and will not do business with any firm that discriminates on any basis. Bids shall be received no later than the date and time noted above at: City of San Diego’s Electronic Biding Site PlanetBids at: h t t p s : / / w w w. p l a n e t b i d s . com/portal/portal. cfm?CompanyID=17950 Claudia C Abarca, Director Purchasing & Contracting Department March 18, 2022 3/25/22 CNS-3567618# ASIAN JOURNAL

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MARCH 25-31, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

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WITH pandemic restrictions eased last year despite two deadly COVID surges, the Philippines improved a notch in the latest World Happiness Report of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network. The rankings are not based on cheerfulness and the ease by which people find happiness, but on quality of life indicators using three-year data from the Gallup World Poll: gross domestic product, life expectancy, generosity, social support, freedom and corruption. With the pandemic dragging the country into its worst recession, the Philippines fell from 52nd place in the 2020 report to 61st in the 2021 rankings, improving slightly to 60th this year among 146 countries. Not surprisingly, the advanced economies have consistently led in the World Happiness Report. This year, Finland maintained its top ranking, followed by Denmark, Iceland, Switzerland and the Netherlands. Rounding out the top 10 are Luxembourg, Sweden, Norway, Israel and New Zealand. At the bottom of the list is Afghanistan. The rest

of the 10 least happy countries are Lebanon, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Botswana, Lesotho, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Malawi and Zambia. In Southeast Asia, the Philippines at least ranked second after Singapore, which placed 27th. Thailand followed the Philippines closely at 61st place, ahead of Malaysia (70th place), Vietnam (77th), Indonesia (87th), Laos (95th), Cambodia (114th) and Myanmar at 126th. Brunei was not included. Considering the hardships caused by the pandemic, 60th place is not too bad. The Philippines has a strong social support network, which helped people cope with the pandemic. Filipinos, however, also face serious and long-entrenched problems such as corruption and human rights issues, including the killings of thousands of drug suspects and the murders – many unsolved – of militants, journalists, legal professionals, indig-

E D I TO R I A L

enous groups and environmental advocates. The public health care. The country cannot rest at 60th COVID pandemic highlighted the weaknesses of place; it can still do better. (Philstar.com)

The ‘pink wave’ springs forward in the Philippines as Filipino activism blooms with Leni-Kiko The Fil-Am Perspective Gel SantoS-ReloS MARCH 20 marked the eve of the changing of seasons. Winter gave way to spring as activism and volunteerism saw a renaissance in the growing number of Filipinos now invested in the campaign of Leni Robredo for president and Kiko Pangilinan for vice president. From the Peoples’ Rally and caravan that kicked off the campaign season for the Leni-Kiko Team in Leni’s hometown in Naga, we have seen the rising of peoples’ enthusiasm as the campaign moved from town to town and city to city in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. We have witnessed more and more people in attendance, with Leni-Kiko supporters from the grassroots sharing their time, talents, effort to show their vote of confidence for “Gobyernong Tapat,” and hope springs eternal for a “Kulay Rosas ang Bukas” and “Angat Buhay Lahat”— a testament to the people’s faith and trust in VP Leni Robredo and Senator Francis Pangalinan. 137,000 Filipinos went to Emerald Avenue in Ortigas Center, Pasig and the pink crowd just filled the adjacent streets for a dazzling display of how these people are so committed in making the change they want to see really happen in the corruption-plagued government in the Philippines. Such astounding show of ac-

tivism was noted by no less than Ariana Grande sharing video of massive Leni-Kiko Pasig Rally singing her hit song “Break Free”on social media. Billboard even described it this way: “While showing their support, the group began to sing Ariana Grande’s 2014 hit, “Break Free,” and the high-energy moment was captured in a video that went viral on social media. Soon enough, the clip made its way to Grande herself, who shared the aerial view of the crowd to her Instagram Stories.” The word “high energy” cannot even capture the spirit of the people — young and old — in Pasig, and in the other Leni-Kiko People’s Rallies before this event. One thing is for sure, it is such a powerful feeling of love for the country and hope for the future that make people in the event tear up, including more than 350,000 of us who were with them virtually as we witness the unfolding of this special celebration of people united by one common aspiration. The attendees started filling up Emerald Avenue in the morning, enduring the sweltering heat, and no bathroom breaks as the crowd got bigger ahead of the day-long celebration of music, chanting, dancing, picnics, camaraderie, climaxed by the speech of Leni Robredo at night. Let me share some of the insights and experiences of these people as shared on social media: “I cannot imagine I will be signing the National Anthem with more than 100,000 people today.” - Jes Mirasol “Ang mamatay ng dahil sa iyo #PasigIsPink…” - Jun Robles Lana as he posted aerial shots

of event “Tuwing naiisip ko si VP Leni, sumasagi sa isipan ko ang dami at lawak ng mga posibilidad na mabago at mapaunlad ang Pilipinas”. - Miyake Izabel “All it takes is a single voice. A single voice loud enough for other people to hear. A single voice that’ll encourage others to use theirs as well. A single voice that can spark a movement.” - Jessika “Sobrang na-feel ko kung gaano siya ka-dedicated at ka-willing to serve the people. Kung narinig niyo yung speech niya, mas marami pa ang pag-endorse niya kay VP kaysa sa sarili niya” - Renz Saavedra “ E X T R E M E LY P RO U D TO BE PART OF THIS HISTORIC EVENT!” - J.M. Dangane ,MD “For a gov’t with a concrete pandemic response and economic recovery plan, push for a good int’l image, and most of all, uplift lives of Filipinos so they can fulfill their needs and even have extra to enjoy things that make them happy!” – BB Kudos, VP @lenirobredo& Pasig Kakampinks, for an epic #PasigLaban! Together, we defied fake news and red-tagging. Together, we can do more and win. If we expand our reach and level-up our unity, NCR can become “National Capital for Robredo”. Yes we can #MakabayanForLeniKiko - Elmer Labog “The best man for the job is a WOMAN Pink Movement Happening Today In Pasig…Responsible Universities and Educators Trust the Movement I haven’t felt this good in years even if I stood for 7-8 hours! Maraming salamat Team TRoPa for inspiring many of us to come out and support you all! You have brought out the best in Filipinos #IpanloNa10To #PASIGLaban” - Jade Therese

Family business

Demand and Supply Boo ChanCo There was this story about a politician who was told by his son that he wanted to take up engineering as a career. The politician objected and told his son he should take after him because politicians make more money. Besides, who will inherit the family business? A powerpoint presentation by UP professors (Tadem and Tadem) revealed that out of the 200 elected House of Representatives, 169 (84.5 percent) were members of pre-1972 traditional families. This signified the continuing general trend in Philippine politics whereby 70 percent of the 15th Philippine Congress is dynastic. It is not any better now, and most likely it is worse. Political dynasties used to infest LGUs and the lower house of Congress. But now, it is at the Senate too. The next Senate is likely to have a mother and son, a father and daughter, a brother and sister and two half brothers. Why should four families be over

represented at the Senate? Academics trace our political dynasties to the Spanish era. Traditional political families have ruled in local governments where they monopolize political power and public offices from generation to generation, and treat the public elective office almost as their personal property. To a great extent, the perpetuation of poverty and underdevelopment, socioeconomic inequality, and the continuing prevalence of massive corruption can be blamed on political dynasties. The families have no incentive to do good. They have locked in political power forever. It is not just in rural areas. Cities within Metro Manila suffer from political dynasties too. One city has a husband as congressman in one district, his wife in another, the brother is mayor and a sister is senator. Many cities in NCR have not had a mayor with a different surname for decades. These personal political fiefdoms explain the strong resistance to an elected Metro Manila government that could better manage the whole region. For this year’s presidential election, Julio C. Teehankee, a

political science professor at De La Salle University, noted the creation of an alliance of powerful families. This marks the peak of dynastic politics, Teehankee said. It seems to be aimed at protecting them from lawsuits and political persecution. Another study noted that a majority of the positions in government are held by politicians who are members of political dynasties. When incumbents can no longer run due to term limits, those who would take their place may even have no previous political background or experience except their family connections. In a study done in 2012 by economists Beja, Mendoza, Venida, and Yap, it was estimated that 40 percent of all provinces in the Philippines have a provincial governor and congressman who are related in some way. Another 2014 study done by Querubin of the Department of Politics in New York University estimates 50 to 70 percent of all politicians are involved or associated in a political dynasty within the Philippines. The same study concluded that approximately 70 percent of all jurisdiction-based legislators

“With my wife attending the #PasigLaban . In 2016 both of us voted for Leni but since I came from Mindanao, I voted for D30. 3 months after the election, I realized I made a mistake. 2022 is different! Solid ka tropa.” 3Poms “Mom/dad always talked about the people power revolutions before as if they were dreams… went to #PasigLaban today. Now i understand”. -Jenju Sa lakas na pinaramdam ng Pasig, damang dama na natin ang pag asa. Salamat, Pilipino! Ipapanalo natin ‘to! Yung pink rallies, may Lost and Found na booth. Yung unity rallies, may paannouncement ng mga nanakawan ng wallet at cellphones na nagmamakaawa na ibalik na. Rallies palang laki na ng pagkakaiba. - Wonderwoman “Nagulat ako when I saw Nanay and Tatay! Ipapanalo po natin to! Ipapanalo po namin kayo! #LeniRobredo2022 #PasigLaban #PasigForLeniKiko #PasigisPink” - Ron Li “I was a DDS and voted for Bongbong Marcos for vp in 2016. Today, I’m proud to say that I will never be a “mangmang” voter again. My character development slayed! Doon tayo sa TOTOO at TAPAT!!! My vote is for you mam @lenirobredo” - Kevin Villena OMG WALA KAMING MASAKYAN NA GRAB SO ABANG ABANG KAMI NG JEEP TAPOS MAY TUMIGIL NA RANDOM KOTSE SAMIN KASI NAKITANG NAKA PINK KAMI TAPOS TINANONG KUNG PAPUNTA RAW KAMI ORTIGAS, ISABAY NA RAW KAMI SINCE PUNTA RIN SILA SA RALLY HUHUHUHU GRABEEE!!!! #PasigLaban #PasigIsPink” -Grey “So nalaglag ng sister ko yung driver’s license and SSS ID nya

during the #PasigLaban rally and true to the values espoused by the pink revolution, naisoli sa kanya after the event. Leni brings out the best in us at a time when the current establishment brings out the worst” - GisingPH “My nieces was narrating what happen to them yesterday. She mentions dami daw namimigay ng food. Ubos n daw tubig nila, uhaw na uhaw na daw sila. Ginaya nya daw ginawa ng iba, she raised a placard with note asking for water. Dumarating daw ang tubig pasa pasahan from the people.” - Ana Trecia Bantigue “Ang tagal ko nang ‘di kinikilabutan nang ganito sa nakikita ko. At ang kilabot na ito, hindi na dala ng takot. Kay tagal kong naghintay.” – Chiara Zambrano “GOOSEBUMPS WHEN BEN AND BEN STARTED SINGING SABEL SINCE IT’S A SONG FOR WOMEN EMPOWERMENT AND LENI ROBREDO IS AN EPITOME OF AN ENPOWERED WOMAN!” - Chad “Amazeball talga ang mga kakampink. Pag may nangangailangan ng medic, the crowd chant all together “MEDIC” to get attention. Graaabe! Concern for others, iba talaga ang pluwensya ng mabuting lider!” - Sumshine “This picture (of Leni hugging children) speaks so much! May this be a reminder for us to vote very very wisely not just for us but for the future of our children. Our children deserves a good governance. They deserve a good future. Let’s win this battle for them.” - Anj “ To d a y, w e p u s h e d b a ck against red-tagging and attempts at disunity, we showed up with a GIGANTIC mob w/ record-breaking (near regime-ousting) numbers, and demonstrated true

unity based on our desire for better governance.” - Rey Kayang kaya natin ‘to. Ipanalo natin ‘to! #PasigLaban “Someone said, “This is no longer a rally, this is history.” We are fighting not only for the present generation but also for the next ones that will carry this remarkable bravery to fight for what we deserve. What a night!” - Kiel “Sana lang huwag matulad sa Edsa, that people felt it was the end. It was just the start. May mga kasama tayo na ganun ang isip, sinisi pa ang Edsa. Di nila naintindihan, Edsa was about us, people power. As Leni says, “we are the answer to each one’s prayer.”- Manny “Yes, Leni Robredo’s middle class base showed up in this behemoth rally at #PasigLaban. The real challenge now is to translate this immense political energy be co-owned by the basic masses, which is morally yearning for genuine change . Abutin ang mga tunay na nasa laylayan.” - Hadji Balajadia

in the current Congress are involved in a political dynasty, with 40 percent of them having ties to legislators who belonged to as far as three Congresses prior. It is also said that 77 percent of legislators between the ages of 26 to 40 are also dynastic, which indicates that the second and third generations of political dynasties in the Philippines have begun their political careers as well. The term “relative” refers to anyone with a family connection such as a wife, a son or daughter, a cousin, etc. Sometimes, even a mistress. The party list system should have alleviated the problem somewhat. But the political dynasties managed to use it as well to expand their representation in the lower house of Congress. The current Constitution has a provision that calls on Congress to pass an anti-political dynasty law. Of course that never happened. Over the last 35 years, Congress simply ignored the Constitutional mandate. The old ruling elite, national and local, has succeeded in perpetuating power in their hands. This also explains why there is no fear of anti-corruption laws because the next administration is likely to be headed by a family member. There is no danger of

being held accountable for corrupt acts. That makes a public office nothing more than a family business. A mayor’s relatives set up construction, office supply, and other businesses that can corner contracts from the LGU. There is little distinction between the money of taxpayers and that of the ruling families. No wonder sons and daughters of powerful dynastic officials do not have to sweat it out in a real productive job outside of government. Genetics provide them a guaranteed means of supporting themselves from cradle to grave. Yet, there are dynastic politicians who first did well in private business. But they still get wives, sons, and daughters into politics to protect the business. This gives them an unfair advantage through influence in government decision making. The people have the power to stop this debilitating characteristic of our democracy. We can end political dynasties through the ballot. But our social and economic circumstances make that impossible. The poor are particularly indebted many times over to these families one way or another. One study I read classified political dynasties two ways: the

thin dynasty and the obese dynasty. In the thin dynasty, family members take turns in serving. In obese dynasties, they take all the positions they can at one time, as in the case I cited earlier. Those of us who can, should start to do our nation a favor and simply not vote for any candidate who is part of an obese dynasty. Serving one after another is probably alright under our circumstances. But there are more than enough qualified independent candidates to vote for instead of members of obese family dynasties. In a properly functioning democratic government, public office is a public trust, an opportunity to serve the common good. Given a public servant’s salary, a true public servant should leave public office poorer rather than richer. Getting rich in public office is a sure sign of corruption, a betrayal of the public trust. (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. *** Gel Santos Relos has been in news, talk, public service and educational broadcasting since 1989. She was a news anchor, TV host and radio commentator and public service host for ABS- CBN and DZMM. She is now working on her advocacies independently, serving the Filipino audience using different media platforms. You may contact her through email at gelrelos@ icloud.com, or send her a message via Facebook at Facebook.com/Gel.Santos. Relos. Also on Twitter, Instagram: Gel Santos Relos

*** 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. *** Boo Chanco’s email address is bchanco@ gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter @boochanco

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More than half of voters want Duterte policies improved but continued - survey MANILA — More than half of Filipino voters would prefer the next administration to partially continue rather than change or fully continue the Duterte administration's policies, new survey results from public opinion research firm WR Numero Research suggest. According to a report of the survey results sent to media, 54.6% of voters want "soft continuity" of the administration's policies, which the political consulting firm said was "driven by President [Rodrigo] Duterte’s high approval rating." Only 29.6% of survey respondents said they prefer full continuity of Duterte-era policies, while only 15.8% wanted change. "This survey reflects one of the main criteria for how the voters will decide in the May 9 election," WRN's report reads. Most voters satisfied with Duterte With less than six months left in his term, Duterte enjoys a high satisfaction rating with almost 68% of Filipino respondents who rated his administration as either very good or good. Of which, 34.1% responded, “very good" when asked how President Duterte fared in leading the country in the past five years while 33.9% answered 'good". In contrast, just around 20% found the administration’s performance to be lacking with 10.6% and 9.48% of the respondents answering “Hindi naging mahusay” (Poor) and “Labis na hindi naging mahusay” (Very Poor), respectively.

The remaining 12.53% of Filipino voters were undecided. Overwhelming approval and trust ratings for the president were logged even as the Philippines went through the world's longest quarantine amid problematic pandemic response marred by allegations of corruption. The chief executive's flagship policy, his bloody "war on drugs" which rights groups say has claimed almost 30,000 lives, is also the subject of investigation by the International Criminal Court. Duterte's daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio is running for vice president alongside Ferdinand Marcos Jr, whom the administration PDP-Laban has announced support for. Methodology WR Numero Research said it used "several levels of statistical intervention" in its digital survey which involved 1,200 unique respondents. WRN also reported a 95% confidence interval from a "high-quality online panel that is representative of all classes." The firm also employs a quota sampling and a proportional weighting method with data from the Philippine Statistics Authority and the Commission on Elections. The company said that this methodology is meant "to avoid overrepresentation and underrepresentation across the four demographic profiles – socio-economic, geographic, sex and gender, and age." (Philstar.com)

Moreno vows to sell Imelda’s art collection, jewelry by

M a r c c aya b ya b P h i l s t a r. c o m .

MANILA — Manila Mayor Isko Moreno has promised to sell the paintings and jewelry seized from the Marcoses if elected president on May 9. Moreno vowed to sell the seized jewelry and prized paintings of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr.’s wife Imelda. “What matters most is we could collect these assets and sell these to fund the state,” Moreno said in Filipino. In 2014, the following paintings were ordered seized from Imelda’s San Juan residence in relation to the civil forfeiture case before the Sandiganbayan: “LaBaignade Au Grand Temps” by Pierre Bonnard, “Madonna and Child” by Michelangelo Buonarroti, “Vase of Red Chrysanthemums” by Bernard Buffet, “Still Life with Idol” by Paul Gauguin, “Portrait of the Marqueza de Sta. Cruz” by Francisco de Goya, “L’Aube” by Joan Miro, “Femme Couche VI (Reclining Woman VI)” by Pablo Picasso and “Jardin de Kew pres de la Serre 1892” by Camille Pissarro. Imelda is believed to have ac-

quired at least 200 prized paintings during the conjugal dictatorship. Other illegally acquired paintings by Monet, Alfred Sisley and Albert Marquet have been auctioned abroad. Some 156 paintings remain missing, including those by Matisse, Monet, Picasso and Van Gogh. Meanwhile, the Presidential Commission on Good Government put up for auction an estimated P1 billion worth of jewelry seized from Imelda following the Marcos dictatorship’s downfall – a facetted emerald drop, diamonds and pearl brooch and earrings in white gold; golden south sea pearl and diamond necklace; and matching earclips in 18 cts. yellow gold; antique diamond and pearl tiara mounted in silver and gold; heartshaped cabochon ruby weighing approximately 25-30 cts. with diamond and white gold surround; set of black star sapphires and diamonds consisting of brooch, ring and earrings in white gold; a matching set of antique diamond, sapphire and ruby bracelet, pendant and earrings mounted in

silver and gold; pearl and diamond set with earclips, brooch and ring in yellow gold; antique Ceylon sapphire and diamond necklace mounted in silver and gold; brilliant baguette and oval cut diamond coronet in white gold, with comb and 150.01-carat large cabochon ruby oval and diamond brooch mounted in yellow gold. “If you remember, these diamonds, assets seized from them, are just sleeping at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas vault. They have a Picasso painting worth $200 million. We can sell these, because there is no use for it if it is just stored in the government vault without benefitting the people,” Moreno said in Filipino. Imelda was convicted by the Sandiganbayan in 2018 for graft for creating offshore Swiss accounts to stow away the family loot. Moreno promised to collect the Marcoses’ tax debt and allot it for social services. Moreno’s campaign manager Lito Banayo also urged Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III to help recover the Marcoses’ tax debt. g

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MARCH 25-31, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

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LEGAL SERVICES CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00001895-CU-PT-CTL

LEGAL SERVICES

CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00009113-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Omar Alexandro Eli Torres-Lombrozo filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Omar Alexandro Eli TorresLombrozo to Alex Lombrozo. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 04/18/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 02, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Loren G. Freestine Judge of the Superior Court AJ 900 03/11, 03/18, 03/25, and 04/01/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Roxxana Marin on behalf of minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Elizabeth Andrade-Marin to Elizabeth Marin. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 04/25/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. C-61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 10, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 901 03/18, 03/25, 04/01, and 04/08/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, which poses a substantial risk to the health and welfare of court personnel and the public, rendering presence in, or access to, the court’s facilities unsafe, and pursuant to the emergency orders of the Chief Justice of the State of California and General Orders of the Presiding Department of the San Diego Superior Court, the following Order is made: NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006460

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006742

AJSD#900

AJSD#901

Laras Logistics Transportation located at 858 Beyer Way, K10, San Diego, CA 92154. Registrant: Jesus Ricardo Lara Lara, 858 Beyer Way, K10, San Diego, CA 92154. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Jesus R Lara Lara. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/17/2022. AJ 907 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, and 04/15/2022.

a. T.R Recycling LLC located at 552 Alta Rd #A, San Diego, CA 92154. b. 619 Junk Cars located at 552 Alta Rd #A, San Diego, CA 92154. Registrant: T. R Recycling LLC, 3858 Cottonwood St., San Diego, CA 92113. This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Norma Ramirez Estrada. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/22/2022. AJ 913 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, and 04/15/2022. AJSD 913

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006665

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006610

AJSD 907

a. Geraldinesthetics LLC located at 2423 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92108. b. Geraldinesthetics located at 2423 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92108. c. Geraldinesthetics Academy located at 2423 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92108. Registrant: Geraldinesthetics LLC, 2423 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92108. This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 12/17/2021. Signature Geraldine Cabreros. Statement filed with Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/19/2022. AJ 908 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, 04/15/2022. AJSD 908

Hustle Minded Individuals located at 2954 Oakstone Creek Pl., San Diego, CA 92027. Registrant: Von Kelvin Ku, 2954 Oakstone Creek Pl., San Diego, CA 92027. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF: 02/28/2017 Signature Von Kelvin Ku. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/18/2022. AJ 914 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, 04/15/2022. AJSD 914

CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00010595-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Everardo Montoya Cornejo filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Everardo Montoya Cornejo to Everardo Montoya Montoya. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 05/03/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 21, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 909 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, 04/15/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, which poses a substantial risk to the health and welfare of court personnel and the public, rendering presence in, or access to, the court’s facilities unsafe, and pursuant to the emergency orders of the Chief Justice of the State of California and General Orders of the Presiding Department of the San Diego Superior Court, the following Order is made: NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD#909

EMPLOYMENT

LEGAL SERVICES

CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00010611-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Michael Anthony Griffith AKA Michael Nguyen filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Michael Anthony Griffith AKA Michael Nguyen to Michael Anthony Griffith. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 05/03/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. C-61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 21, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 910 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, 04/15/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD#910

CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00009331-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Aracely Cuevas on behalf of minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Joevany Hernan Rivera to Joevany Cuevas. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 04/26/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 11, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 911 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, and 04/15/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD#911

FOR RENT

SERVICES

CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00009336-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Aracely Cuevas on behalf of minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Julian Cristian Juarez Cuevas to Julian Cuevas. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 04/26/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 11, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 912 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, and 04/15/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD#912

(818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588 • http://www.asianjournal.com

SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • MARCH 25-31, 2022

LEGAL SERVICES CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00006870-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Isaac Daniel Garduno Arceo filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Isaac Daniel Garduno Arceo to Isaac Daniel Garduno. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 04/12/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: FEB. 23, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 887 03/04, 03/11, 03/18, and 03/25/2022. ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, which poses a substantial risk to the health and welfare of court personnel and the public, rendering presence in, or access to, the court’s facilities unsafe, and pursuant to the emergency orders of the Chief Justice of the State of California and General Orders of the Presiding Department of the San Diego Superior Court, the following Order is made: NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.

AJSD #887

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9004179

Castro Painting located at 1520 East 14th Street, National City, CA 91950. Registrant: a. Cesar Castro, 1520 East 14th Street, National City, CA 91950. b. Jesus Castro, 1520 East 14th Street, National City, CA 91950. This business is conducted by General Partnership. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Cesar Castro. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 02/17/2022. AJ 888 03/04, 03/11, 03/18, and 03/25/2022.

AJSD 888

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9004723 Honey Hawaiian located at 6963 Ramfos Circle, San Diego, CA 92139. Registrant: Leila Sapla, 6963 Ramfos Circle, San Diego, CA 92139. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Leila Sapla. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 02/24/2022. AJ 891 03/04, 03/11, 03/18, and 03/25/2022.

AJSD 891

LEGAL SERVICES

LEGAL SERVICES

CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00006895-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Peter D. Chu, Esq. State Bar# 98935 Attorney For: Jason Duane Leon filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Jason Duane Leon to Jason Duane Leon-Baptista. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 04/11/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: FEB. 23, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 889 03/04, 03/11, 03/18, and 03/25/2022. ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, which poses a substantial risk to the health and welfare of court personnel and the public, rendering presence in, or access to, the court’s facilities unsafe, and pursuant to the emergency orders of the Chief Justice of the State of California and General Orders of the Presiding Department of the San Diego Superior Court, the following Order is made: NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.

AJSD #889

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9005114

a. CALIFORNIA SOJU COMPANY located at 760 Thomas Ave., San Diego, CA 92109. b. NOJU SOJU located at 760 Thomas Ave., San Diego, CA 92109. Registrant: CALIFORNIA SOJU CO., 760 Thomas Ave., San Diego, CA 92109 This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Phillip No. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/01/2022. AJ 893 03/11, 03/18, 03/25, and 04/01/2022. AJSD 893

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9004393 Tacos Los Compas located at 420 Harbison Ave., National City, CA 91950. Registrant: Raymundo Javier Ramirez, 420 Harbison Ave., National City, CA 91950. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Raymundo J. Ramirez. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 02/22/2022. AJ 894 03/11, 03/18, 03/25, and 04/01/2022.

AJSD 894

CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00006892-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Peter D. Chu, Esq. State Bar# 98935 Attorney For: Mintsen Chen Wen filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Mintsen Chen Wen to Mintsen Chen. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 04/11/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: FEB. 23, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 890 03/04, 03/11, 03/18, and 03/25/2022. ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, which poses a substantial risk to the health and welfare of court personnel and the public, rendering presence in, or access to, the court’s facilities unsafe, and pursuant to the emergency orders of the Chief Justice of the State of California and General Orders of the Presiding Department of the San Diego Superior Court, the following Order is made: NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.

AJSD #890

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9005557

CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00007472-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Farah Noaman and Waseem Al Haddad on behalf of minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Milad W Waleed to Milad Al Haddad. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 04/18/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 03, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 895 03/11, 03/18, 03/25, and 04/01/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, which poses a substantial risk to the health and welfare of court personnel and the public, rendering presence in, or access to, the court’s facilities unsafe, and pursuant to the emergency orders of the Chief Justice of the State of California and General Orders of the Presiding Department of the San Diego Superior Court, the following Order is made: NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9003403

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006228

AJSD #892

Master Fences and Exterior Design located at 1324 Paraiso Ave., Spring Valley, CA 91977. Registrant: Steve Esquivel Ulloa, 1324 Paraiso Ave., Spring Valley, CA 91977. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Steve Esquivel Ulloa. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 02/09/2022. AJ 898 03/11, 03/18, 03/25, and 04/01/2022.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9004308

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006095

Díaz Cleaning Service located at 8178 Brookhaven Rd., San Diego, CA 92114. Registrant: José L Díaz, 8178 Brookhaven Rd., San Diego, CA 92114. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature José L Díaz. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 02/22/2022. AJ 897 03/11, 03/18, 03/25, and 04/01/2022.

AJSD 897

CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00008096-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Suleyma Guzman on behalf of a minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Natalie Guzman Navarrete to Natalie Sanchez Guzman. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 04/13/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. C-61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: FEB. 28, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 892 03/04, 03/11, 03/18, and 03/25/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.

a. FAB & GLAM by AIRA located at 1615 Sweetwater Rd., #G, National City, CA 91950. b. FAB & GLAM located at 1615 Sweetwater Rd., #G, National City, CA 91950. Registrant: Aria L. Prades, 92165 Nopalito Dr., Unit 64, Chula Vita, CA 91915. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 03/07/2022. Signature Aria L. Prades. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/07/2022. AJ 896 03/11, 03/18, 03/25, and 04/01/2022.

AJSD 896

9

AJSD 898

What’s Topping located at 1135 Calle Oroblanco Unit 1, Chula Vista, CA 91913. Registrant: a. Maria T. Moneda, 1135 Calle Oroblanco Unit 1, Chula Vista, CA 91913. b. Norman R. Moneda, 1135 Calle Oroblanco Unit 1, Chula Vista, CA 91913. This business is conducted by Married Couple. REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 03/11/2022. Signature Marcos LunaNieblas. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/11/2022. AJ 902 03/18, 03/25, 04/01, and 04/08/2022. AJSD 902

AJSD #895

Seafood Island located at 10249 Lone Bluff Dr., San Diego, CA 92127. Registrant: Dovan Nguyen, 10249 Lone Bluff Dr., San Diego, CA 92127. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 03/14/2022. Signature Dovan Nguyen. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/14/2022. AJ 903 03/18, 03/25, 04/01, and 04/08/2022.

AJSD 903

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9005700

Newwave Brewing located at 2332 La Mirada Dr. #500, Vista, CA 92081. Registrant: LA Makgeolli CO Inc., 10249 Lone Bluff Dr., San Diego, CA 92127. This business is conducted by Corporation. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 03/08/2022. Signature Sang Soo Bae. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/08/2022. AJ 904 03/18, 03/25, 04/01, and 04/08/2022.

AJSD 904

CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00008300-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Sandra Aredondo on behalf of minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Angie Giselle Flores Aredondo to Angie Giselle Aredondo. b. Kiara Sofia Flores Aredondo to Kiara Sofia Aredondo. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 04/19/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 04, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 899 03/11, 03/18, 03/25, and 04/01/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, which poses a substantial risk to the health and welfare of court personnel and the public, rendering presence in, or access to, the court’s facilities unsafe, and pursuant to the emergency orders of the Chief Justice of the State of California and General Orders of the Presiding Department of the San Diego Superior Court, the following Order is made: NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.

AJSD #899

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006377

Beauty Simplified located at 1688 Pelican Point Ct., Chula Vista, CA 91911. Registrant: a. Kerri Aviles, 1688 Pelican Point Ct., Chula Vista, CA 91911. b. Mark Aviles, 1688 Pelican Point Ct., Chula Vista, CA 91911. This business is conducted by Married Couple. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Kerri Aviles. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/16/2022. AJ 905 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, and 04/15/2022.

AJSD 905

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9005098

Taco Bomb Authentic Mexican Grill located at 6725 Linda Vista Rd., San Diego, CA 92111. Registrant: Taco Bomb Authentic Mexican Grill, 6725 Linda Vista Rd., San Diego, CA 92111. This business is conducted by Corporation. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 02/01/2022. Signature Rogelio Diaz. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/01/2022. AJ 906 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, and 04/15/2022. AJSD#906

10 MARCH 25-31, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

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M A R C H 25, 2 0 22

‘The Philippines is Open!’: Tourism officials, travel advisors optimistic about tourist arrivals A

BY

M O M A R G . V I S AYA /

AJPRESS

FTER more than two years since the March 2020 lockdown due to the pandemic, travel professionals are optimistic that with the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions around the world, more people will be traveling in the coming months. At the New York Travel and Adventure Show at the Jacob Javits Convention Center over the weekend, prospective travelers had a chance to see promotions from airlines, hotels, cruise companies, and travel agencies. “The Philippines has been ready to accept tourists even before we open our borders,” said Tourism Attache Francisco Lardizabal. “There are no quarantines and testing upon arrival although we still have rules and regulations for health and safety put in place by the local and national government.” Currently, only fully vaccinated foreign leisure travelers from visa-free countries are allowed to enter the Philippines. Lardizabal said that starting April 1, the Philippines will be open to foreign tourists as the Department of Tourism has talked with various local government

units across the country to make inter-regional and intra-regional travel easier. The country’s partial reopening that began in February has recorded more than 100,000 tourist arrivals with the United States clocking in the highest number, followed by Canada, the United Kingdom, South Korea, and Australia. “We are happy to see the gradual reopening of our borders finally bearing fruit as evidenced by the much higher foreign visitor arrivals,” Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat said in a report. “This will help safeguard the industry’s revival, providing more jobs and livelihoods to Filipinos in the tourism sector. In a previous Kapihan with the Fil-Am Press Club of New York, Puyat talked about the high vaccination rate of tourism workers and the country’s com-

Officers of Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) New York led by (from left) current chair Joebert Opulencia and immediate past chair Elizabeth Chin with an unidentified guest and Vic Suarez of Philippine Airlines

pliance with global safety and hygiene protocols. DOT officials are hoping that the current low Covid-19 cases and simplified entry requirements would help boost tourist arrivals to revive the sector that was among the worst hit by the pandemic. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority. the tourism industry’s contribution to the Philippines’ gross domestic product in 2019 was at 12.7 percent. In his talk at the travel show, Alvin Adriano of Travelwise talked about how foreign tourists help contribute to the growth of the country’s economy, asking future travelers to consider traveling to countries where they could provide more impact. “The Philippines is a thirdworld country so your tourism dollars that you spend there will go a long way and change its economic outlook,” Adriano said. “Or you can go to places like Paris, which has 26 million visitors. But how much are you helping? How much are you contributing to over-tourism?” Tips from Travel Advisors “The thing to keep in mind is to always be mindful of your destination’s current situation because that can change overnight,” shared Elizabeth Chin, former chair of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) New York. “Some borders still remain close, so that’s one of the reasons why it’s so important to keep in touch with a Travel Advisor because if you booked on your own,

Consul General Elmer G. Cato (fourth from left) and Mrs. Melinda Cato in the booth of the Philippine Department of Tourism at the New York Travel and Adventure Show, with Ms. Luz Alquisola, Francisco Lardizabal, Joey Chanco and Goldwyn Salazar

you are on your own.” Joebert Opulencia, the current chair of PATA, is hopeful that more people will be traveling this year because they were not able to do so in the past two years. “It’s been a long two years for everyone to be at home or you know working from home. The only thing I would say is go to where your heart takes you,” he said. He also echoed Chin’s tip about working with travel ad- Francisco Lardizabal of the Department of Tourism New York visors. “They are the people that can create ideal travel plans for you. They are your source of information. If you don’t get them or if you don’t approach them, then you’re on your own,” Opulencia said. “There is industry information out there available only to travel advisors that are not on websites so take advantage of that.” Chin talked about the pent-up demand of travelers after two years. “Many people have accumu- Guests at the Travel and Adventure Show were able to take part in in-depth, 30-minute lated wealth, big or small. There workshops on where to go, how to get there and what to do at the top locations from around

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the world from the trip advisors and travel experts, including Francisco Lardizabal of the Philippine Department of Tourism.

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Pahrump, areas outside Las Vegas eyed by home developers as land prices increase BY

R e a lt o R F e ly Q u i t e v i s - B at e m a n

REAL estate in the gaming capital of the world, Las Vegas, continues on its upward trend as the area’s population continues to grow. With construction projects on the horizon and with it more jobs and employment opportunities, Las Vegas home buyers are feeling the crunch when it comes to searching for affordable homes. The frenzy for home buying in the area has taken its toll on prospective homeowners as many compete for available, affordable homes. A recent article even stated that some builders have put buyers

on waiting lists, and that buyers have had to contend with raising of prices, overbidding and lottery draws. That is probably the reason why home builders will be looking at areas outside of Las Vegas to develop new homes, especially since per square foot costs in these areas are cheaper when compared to Las Vegas. Take a look at Pahrump, which is about 62 miles west of Las Vegas. Easily a drive of about an hour or less, it is an area where a person employed in the world’s gaming capital can drive to and from work,

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman with Tim Lai (left), who is looking at parcels to build apartment units to meet the rental shortage in Pahrump.

and still enjoy the comforts of a quieter, peaceful neighborhood, and far from bustling traffic, crime and other problems associated with big cities. Today’s Pahrump is no longer a backwards place. Still an unincorporated town, Pahrump has currently an estimated population of nearly 48,000 from the latest Census data (by comparison, in 2000, the town had an estimated population of just under 25,000), and has many major stores that can be seen in big towns like Walmart Supercenter, Albertson’s, Safeway, Home Depot and Dollar General, as well as a variety of businesses that serve its burgeoning population. Aside from these, Pahrump is also site to the Front Sight Firearms Training Institute and Spring Mountain Motor Sports Ranch. It also has wineries, casinos, drugstores, many restaurants, and legal brothels. Public education is administered by the Nye County School District. Although land prices in Pahrump may not be as low as was decades ago, it is still an affordable alternative to the rising real estate prices in Las Vegas. Plus, real estate in Pahrump has appreciated about 155% over the last ten years alone, according to latest data available, which puts the unincorporated town in the top 10% nationally for areas whose real estate values have appreciated exponentially. Due to this, many observers see Pahrump as being one of the best long-term investments that people can make in the United States over the past

Former Philippine President Fidel Ramos (extreme right, holding golf club) was impressed playing golf at Mountain Falls Golf Resort during his visit to Las Vegas many years ago. With former President Ramos in photo are Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman and her family.

decade and into the future. Despite a downturn in the housing market, Pahrump’s real estate portfolio has continued to appreciate. Millions of dollars are being pumped into construction projects in Pahrump which will greatly benefit the town. A glove factory on 10-acre parcel of land being developed by one of my investors Andrew Hoang, will create hundreds of jobs. While the market is still affordable, now is the time to look for opportunities to invest in real estate in Pahrump and neighboring communities in Las Vegas. Even the Las Vegas Review Journal, in a recent article, said

Victor Covarrubias (left), owner of Ford dealership in CA, looking for his 2nd dealership in Pahrump with (from left) Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman and Jennifer Benedict, another investor in Pahrump.

that a broader acceleration in areas like Pahrump, Mesquite, Indian Springs, Moapa Valley and Laughlin may take place to address the needs of home buyers in the lower price ranges as residential developers eye other regions for potential projects. Besides, for those looking to invest in real estate in Pahrump like some of my clients who are now reaping the benefits of their investments, settling in places like Pahrump in Nevada has distinct tax advantages, including a competitive business state tax, a county sales tax of 6.75% (not on food items), and no taxes Jorge and Reggie Bondoc of Houston (extreme right and extreme left), the No. 1 top seller of Ritello USA From left: Atty. Jack Ross of Las Vegas, Gloria Estillore from Silicon Valley (who associated with estate/inheritance, in 2021, bought 3 lots last year on their first visit to Pahrump. They are in photo with Realtor Fely Quitevis- is eyeing to build assisted living facilities), Weenah Cadiz (considering Pahrump franchise, gift, inventory/interstate commerce, corporate income and Bateman (center). as her retirement destination) and Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman.

personal income. ‘Whether you are looking to be gainfully employed, retire or just own a second home or land as an investment, Pahrump is a great place to start your search, and I can help you. Having seen the growth of this community since 1992, I can assist you, my kababayans, in your search for the best opportunities. My company, Precious Properties, is a full-service company serving its clientele since 1992 and you can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805-5592476 and 702-538-4948 for more information. We have investors who buy houses in California and Nevada for cash and quick escrow in as short as 7 days. (Advertising Supplement)

12 MARCH 25-31, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

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Pechanga Resort Casino’s The Cove pool complex reopens for the season in time for spring break With new food & drink menu, Pechanga offers new hotel packages to take advantage of visiting The Cove

JUST in time for Spring Break this March, one of the largest pool complexes at one of the country’s largest resort/casinos reopened Monday, March 14 for Pechanga hotel, Pechanga RV, Temecula Creek Inn and Red Club tier and higher guests. Pechanga Resort Casino’s 4.5acre pool complex, The Cove, equals in size to five football fields. It features four pools, three spas, two twisty waterslides, 27 cabanas, six oversized daybeds that skim the main pool, a swim up bar with 18 submerged seats and Baja ledges. Pechanga Resort Casino also introduces two new hotel specials for discerning guests who keep a look out for value-added deals for great getaways. The Cove, by the numbers: • The Cove’s area equals 4.5 acres. That’s

more than 5 football fields combined. • 4 pools. The largest is the 21 & older main pool at 7,500 square feet. Newly enlarged family pool is 4,358 square feet. • 18 underwater seats at the swim-up bar at the main pool. • 2 twisty waterslides at the family pool. • 27 Cabanas & 6 Daybeds. Since opening in 2019, The Cove has proved to be a popular oasis-like spot for guests celebrating birthdays and bridal showers, and of course, for those who just want to soak up the Southern California sun in style. Grabbing a bite to eat or a refreshing drink at The Cove is easy with dedicated cabana servers, as well as poolside service from the Coveside Grill restaurant. A brand-new cocktail menu featuring twists on the Mai Tai,

mint julep and piña colada helps get the pool party started. Mocktails are also available. Inside the Cove complex, guests will also find several modern fire pits perfect for sitting by and sipping a refreshing beverage, men’s/women’s locker and changing rooms, the walk-up Coveside Grill restaurant, luxury cabanas with personalized food and drink service, and a 26,140-squarefoot lush green lawn for private events. Other important info: • Pechanga hotel guest admission to The Cove – complimentary • Pechanga RV and Temecula Creek Inn guest admission to The Cove - $30 day pass • Cabanas & Daybeds – rate varies based on weekday/weekends and on availability. Reservations open to Pechanga hotel, Temecula Creek Inn, Pechanga RV guests, Pechanga Tribal members and Pechanga Red tier members and above. For more information on the Cove, visit www. pechanga.com/indulge/the-cove or call 951-7708450. New Pechanga hotel packages include the Stay Longer & Save promotion. Guests who book two or more nights save 20-percent on their stay. Rooms into March and April start as low as $167 per night using this package that also gives guests complimentary access to The Cove, the Journey at Pechanga golf practice facility, park-

ing and more. The Book Early & Save Pechanga hotel package also runs through the end of 2022. This package gives guests 25-percent off the best available room rates when they book 30 days or more in advance. This package requires guests book two or more room nights and also affords those staying at Pechanga all the complimentary amenities above. For Pechanga hotel package reservations, visit www.Pechanga.com/stay/packages. Pechanga Resort Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the United States. Voted the best casino in the west by USA Today and rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay. Offering 5,400 of the hottest slots, 152 table games, world-class entertainment, 1,100 hotel rooms, dining, spa and golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort Casino features a destination that meets and exceeds the needs of its guests and the community. Pechanga Resort & Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians. For more information, call toll free (877) 711-2946 or visit www. Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort Casino on Facebook, Instagram and on Twitter. (Advertising Supplement)

Gerald prefers to share his work ethic On anniversary of Affordable Care Act, rather than give colleagues advice Covered California reminds uninsured consumers they may still be able to sign up for health coverage and save big on their premiums throughout 2022 by

Marinel Cruz I n q u i r e r. n e t

MORE than giving out pieces of advice, actor Gerald Anderson said he’d rather set a good example for the people he works with to follow. “When you come to the set, you have to be prepared,” the 33-year-actor said. “But more than that, you have to be kind to your coworkers. Working on the set these days is not a joke. We’re in lock-in taping for a long period of time and we’re away from our families. Everyone is tired. To be kind should be the first thing on your mind, and then professionalism.” Gerald, who renewed his contract with home network ABSCBN in February, said he chose to remain a Kapamilya because he values the relationships he has built with people within the company through the years. “I like to be around people who are equally passionate about work as I am. I draw strength from them,” he explained. “I also give importance to the memories I’ve shared with them outside of work. When we attend out-of-town mall shows, we would always have side trips. We would explore the city, or in my case,

Gerald Anderson

do river rafting after work. I’ve had ups and downs in my life and career, and they also chose to stay beside me during the most difficult times,” recalled Gerald. “They’re my family. We share the same house. If something happens to your house, like you failed to pay rent, for example, you don’t stop being a family. You choose to stay together,” said Gerald, explaining why he opted not to leave ABS-CBN despite its failed franchise bid and eventual shutdown in 2020. Resilience “Choosing to stick together, that’s how we are able to test our resilience, our sense of being a Kapamilya. After all the trouble, you emerge as a group

Photo from Instagram/@andersongeraldjr

of more mature people, closer to each other more than ever,” he declared. Gerald entered show biz via the reality talent search “Pinoy Big Brother” at 17. He won third place in the competition. Gerald said his view of competitions has changed through the years. “I’ve always been competitive; that’s the reason I lasted this long in the industry. I value that trait,” he began. “We’re in the middle of a pandemic. There are very few projects being produced, and there are a lot of us actors hoping to find work. We’re all fighting for roles and shows. I’m in a very competitive industry but I’m lucky to be able to find friends from among my competitors.”

Angelica pregnant with first baby by

Jan Milo Severo P h i l s t a r. c o m

KAPAMILYA actress Angelica Panganiban revealed that she’s pregnant with her first baby with boyfriend Gregg Homan. In her Instagram account on Sunday, March 20, Angelica posted photos and a video of her ultrasound. “Ay! Na post!!” she captioned the post. “Sa wakas!!! Magagampanan ko na rin ang pinaka hihintay, at pinaka importanteng papel ng buhay ko. Magiging ganap na INA na po ako,” she added. Angelica thanked family and friends for the prayers and support. “Opo, may matres ako mga

baklaaah! Ipagpapasalamat ko na rin ang mga kapamilya, kaibigan, at mga marites na sumuporta, nagdiwang, nagdasal at patuloy na nagdadasal para sa pamilya namin. Waaaaaah! Huhuhu. May pamilya na ko. Kaiyaq pramis,” she said. Angelica and Greg will celebrate their 2nd anniversary as a couple on July. It was on November 2020 when Angelica was rumored to be in a relationship again after failed relationships with Carlo Aquino, Derek Ramsay and John Lloyd Cruz. On New Year's eve that year, she confirmed speculation by posting a photo of her kissing a man. She publicly introduced Greg with a selfie on her Instagram account a month after.

Angelica Panganiban Photo from Instagram/@iamangelicap

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Wednesday, March 23 marked the 12th anniversary of the enactment of the federal Affordable Care Act, the most significant improvement to America’s health care system since the passage of Medicaid and Medicare more than five decades ago. On this anniversary, Covered California celebrates the progress made since passage of this groundbreaking law and is reminding people that they may still be able to sign up for comprehensive coverage during the current special-enrollment period. “California celebrates the 12th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act with a record enrollment of 1.8 million people, record-low uninsured rates and a tremendous sense of pride that comes from providing affordable coverage and helping save lives during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Jessica Altman, executive director of Covered California. “The door may still be open to you if you need health insurance, because Californians can still sign up for comprehensive coverage through Covered California if they have a change in their life circumstances.” As a result of California’s leadership to fully leverage the Affordable Care Act, Covered California has provided coverage for over 5 million Californians since first opening its doors in 2014. Through the federal law’s expansion of Medicaid, millions more have enrolled through California’s Medi-Cal program. Taken together, California’s implementation of the Affordable Care Act has resulted in a drop in the state’s uninsured rate to a record-low 6 percent in 2020. Communities of color have been among the biggest beneficiaries of Affordable Care Act policies in California, with the uninsured rate for Latinos decreasing by 50 percent, and by nearly 66 percent for Black and Asian American/Pacific Islander consumers. The federal American Rescue Plan built on the Affordable Care Act in significant ways, reduc-

ing consumer premiums costs to record lows and expanding eligibility for premium savings to middle-income individuals and families. As Covered California lauds the Affordable Care Act, the exchange also encourages Californians to take advantage of the financial help provided by the American Rescue Plan if they qualify for coverage during this year’s special-enrollment period. Special enrollment qualifying life events Although Covered California’s open-enrollment period ended on Jan. 31 this year, there are many life changes that allow Californians to enroll right now. The most common qualifying life events are losing health coverage, getting married, having a baby, permanently moving to California or moving within California. In addition, there are several qualifying life events that are available due to the public health emergency and the American Rescue Plan: • You or a family member have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. • You have a household income under 150 percent of the federal poverty level, which is less than $19,320 for an individual and $39,750 for a family of four. • Eligible consumers in this income bracket would qualify for a Silver 94 plan, the best coverage available through Covered California, at no cost. • You paid the penalty because you did not have health insurance. A full list of qualifying life events can be found at https://www.coveredca.com/support/before-youbuy/qualifying-life-events/. “Today, two of every three Covered California enrollees can get name-brand coverage for $10 a month or less, thanks to the expanded eligibility and record financial help through the American Rescue Plan,” Altman said. “For millions of people, these American Rescue Plan subsidies are critical to preserving the gains we have made so far and to keeping Cali-

fornians and Americans covered and cared for well into the future.” Consumers who sign up during special enrollment will have their coverage begin on the first of the following month. Consumers can easily check out their eligibility and options at CoveredCA.com Consumers can explore their options in a number of different ways, including: • Covered California’s online Shop and Compare Tool will show a consumer if they are eligible for financial help and which plans are available in their area. • Find the nearest certified enroller in your neighborhood by visitinghttps://www.coveredca.com/ support/contact-us/. • Call Covered California at (800) 300-1506 to get information or enroll by phone. Covered California’s online enrollment portal and certified enrollers will also help people find out whether they are eligible for Medi-Cal. Medi-Cal enrollment is available year-round, and the coverage will begin the day after a person signs up. Covered California is the state’s health insurance marketplace, where Californians can find affordable, high-quality insurance from top insurance companies. Covered California is the only place where individuals who qualify can get financial assistance on to reduce premium costs. Consumers can then compare health insurance plans and choose the coverage that works best for their health needs and budget. Depending on their income, some consumers may qualify for the low-cost or nocost Medi-Cal program. Covered California is an independent part of the state government whose job is to make the health insurance marketplace work for California’s consumers. It is overseen by a five-member board appointed by the governor and the Legislature. For more information about Covered California, please visit www.CoveredCA. com. (Covered CA Release)

‘The Philippines is Open...

PAGE 10 wasn’t much spending to do so aside from the pent-up demand, people have money now to spend,” she said. “So go out and spend, and go out and travel.” Opulencia also talked about insurance requirements, particularly medical insurance with a $35,000 coverage requirement for foreign tourists visiting the Philippines. “Insurance is very important, it is essential. In the end, this would save you money if emergencies happen, like trip cancellation or if you need to extend your travel because you tested positive. The insurance pays for all of that,” he explained. Flight Updates The country’s flag carrier, Philippine Airlines, joined the Department of Tourism in the travel show. Vic Suarez, PAL’s area manager, provided updates about the flights from New York. PAL currently flies three times weekly, every Tuesday Thursday, and Saturday from JFK Airport.

“Our New York JFK to Manila (PR 127) is temporarily being rerouted to avoid flying through Russian airspace for now,” Suarez shared. “We are taking this precautionary measure in view of airspace closure concerns related to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.” JFK-Manila and Toronto-Manila flights need to stop over briefly in Vancouver for a one-hour refueling stop before proceeding to Manila. The eastbound flights from Manila (PR 126 and PR 118) will continue to operate nonstop Manila to New York JFK, and nonstop Manila to Toronto because these flights do not overfly Russian territory. “If you’re a foreign tourist flying with PAL, be sure you get your COVID travel insurance for at least 35,000 US dollars. That should cover you for COVID issues while you’re in the Philippines then you can either get your negative PCR test results within 48 hours before departure or the most updated one or antigen test 24 hours before departure,” Suarez shared. g

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14 MARCH 25-31, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

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