APRIL 4-7, 2020 Volume 30 - No. 26 • 2 Sections – 22 Pages
Coronavirus cases around the world surpass 1 million by RITCHEL
MENDIOLA AJPress
THE total number of recorded novel coronavirus (COVID-19) cases worldwide has surpassed one million on Thursday, April 2, three months after the first case was reported in Wuhan, China. Over 1,095,000 people around the world have contracted the disease, with 58,787 fatalities and 225,796 recoveries, as of Friday, April 3, according to the latest figures from the Johns Hopkins University Coronavirus Resource Center. The United States has recorded the most cases with over
275,500 or about one-quarter of the world’s total. Its official death toll has reached 5,316. The top states with the highest totals include New York (102,987), New Jersey (29,895), Michigan (12,744), California (12,004), and Massachusetts (10,402). Italy trails behind the U.S. with 115,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases. It also has the most number of fatalities with a record of 14,000 deaths. Spain, meanwhile, has reported 110,000 cases and 10,000 fatalities. The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic,
and countries since then have implemented measures such as lockdowns and social distancing in an attempt to “flatten the curve.” LA County numbers Los Angeles County on Friday announced 11 new deaths and 521 new cases of COVID19, bringing the total to 4,566 cases and 89 deaths. Seven of the 11 deaths reported occurred in people over the age of 65; three people were between 41– 65 years old, and one person was between 18 to 40 years old. All reported underlying health conditions except for u PAGE A2
Duterte faces backlash over ‘shoot to kill’ order for quarantine violators
USA
DATELINE Pinay detective in Santa Rosa becomes first lineof-duty death related to coronavirus in CA FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
Marylou Armer, a 20-year veteran of the Santa Rosa Police Department, died on March 31. Photo courtesy of SRPD
A FILIPINA American detective of the Santa Rosa Police Department, who became California’s first line-of-duty death related to the novel coronavirus, was honcars through
ored with a procession of patrol the North Bay on Friday, April 3. Marylou Armer, 43, was a 20-year veteran of the department and succumbed to the illness
u PAGE A3
CA Sen. Kamala Harris condemns anti-Asian attacks, doubles down on protections for front-liners CALIFORNIA Senator Kamala Harris denounced the rise of anti-Asian violence and discrimination in the United States and called on more protections for vulnerable populations, including front-line workers. Harris, the first South Asian American senator, said she’s confronted members of the Trump administration on its usage of calling the coronavirus, the “Chinese Virus” or “Wuhan Virus,” which in part has sparked the anti-Asian sentiments since the virus broke out. “It’s fueled the hate for the president of the United States to continue to insist on calling it, the Wuhan Virus or the China/Chinese virus. It is absolutely irresponsible. It is born out of ignorance,” the senator told the Asian u PAGE A3
STERN WARNING. A coffin that bears the sign “Please stay at home or stay inside this coffin” is displayed along Rev. Aglipay in Brgy. Pagasa in Mandaluyong City to warn the residents to stay indoors to avoid contracting the coronavirus disease. Philstar.com photo by Michael Varcas
by RITCHEL
MENDIOLA AJPress
President Rodrigo Duterte
Malacañang photo by Ace Morandante
PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte came under fire after ordering the police and military to shoot quarantine violators dead during Luzon’s enhanced community quarantine due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). “I will not hesitate. My orders are to the police and military,
also the barangay, that if there is trouble or the situation arises that people fight and your lives are on the line, shoot them dead,” he said Wednesday, April 1, during an impromptu televised address. This came after 21 Quezon City residents were arrested by the police for demanding help and protesting without a permit. “Do not intimidate government. Do not challenge government.
Matatalo kayo, sigurado (You’ll surely lose),” Duterte said. His statements have since been condemned by human rights groups who urged everyone not to view Duterte’s threats as empty. “At the very least, Duterte gives the police all the justification they need to commit human rights abuses against people who may be violating these COVID-19 regu PAGE A2
PH receives nearly $4-M health assistance from US to fight COVID-19 by RITCHEL
MENDIOLA AJPress
THE U.S. Department of State on Tuesday, March 31, said that it has provided approximately $18.3 million in emergency health and humanitarian assistance to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states, including the Philippines. The local government received nearly $4 million, or approximately P200 million, in health assistance to help the government prepare laboratory and event-based surveillance, support technical experts for
response and preparedness, risk communication, infection prevention and control, and more. It added that the Department of Defense’s Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) provided locally sourced PPE, training, exercises, and laboratory equipment and materials to the country. The Philippines received the largest amount of financial assistance from the U.S. among the ASEAN members. The United States has invested more than $582 million in the Philippines’ health care system alone and nearly $4.5 billion u PAGE A3
LA County officials discuss immigrant rights, price gouging Fil-Am designers shift from dress making to sewing masks to fill shortage
Fil-Am designer Alexis Monsanto cuts fabric to make masks at his work studio in Los Angeles. Contributed photo
by KLARIZE
MEDENILLA AJPress
THE new coronavirus, and the ways in which it has drastically capsized daily life for people across the world, has become the most pressing, quite literally life or death, issue of the new decade. Global pandemics affect everyone regardless of demographic markers, but in a world where justice and equity aren’t guaranteed, some communities are more vulnerable than others. In a press telebriefing on Wednesday, April 1, Los Angeles County leaders discussed how the COVID-19 virus affects undocumented immigrants, one of the most vulnerable communities that, for years, has fought for its own basic, constitutional
rights in the United States. In regards to the concerns over public charge — the rule that could deny legal status to undocumented immigrants who receive public assistance — Daniel Sharp, the chief of the Office of Immigrant Affairs in the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA), emphasized that seeking out health treatment related to COVID-19 does not count as a public charge. “We are in a health crisis and I do want to make very clear that US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has clarified in writing that any preventative services, testing or health treatment related to COVID-19 will not be factored into any future public charge,” Sharp told reporters on the call. u PAGE A5
by CHRISTINA
M. ORIEL
AJPress
FOR several Filipino American designers, the spring season usually brings in orders for wedding dresses, debutante gowns, and outfits for other special occasions. But amid the coronavirus pandemic, cities like Los Angeles have ordered the closure of nonessential businesses and put large gatherings on hold.
Instead of sitting idly by, designers are re-shifting their focus and putting their sewing machines to work to meet the national demand for face masks, including those for front-line health care workers. “It was natural for me to do this because of my training. I knew the need firsthand because most of my California brides are Filipina nurses. Many of my regular Filipino clients are in the u PAGE A2
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A april 4-7, 2020 • la WEEKEND aSiaN JOUrNal
Duterte faces backlash... PAGE A1 t
ulations because they needed to find work or food,” noted Human Rights Watch. Karapatan said: “We are seriously alarmed that the President’s words will translate to worse and more brutal forms of human rights violations, repression, and state violence in the days to come.” “Indeed, there is a much deadlier virus than COVID-19. It is be-
ing wielded by no less than the President, who is responsible for the thousands of lives lost borne out of his murderous, brazen and anti-poor policies,” the group added. Amnesty International (AI) called out the government’s “oppressive approach” to those struggling with basic needs. “Deadly, unchecked force should never be referred to as a
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From the Front Page method to respond to an emergency such as the COVID 19 pandemic,” the group said, urging Duterte to cease the “dangerous incitement to violence.” “The lives of those most at risk must be considered a priority, in the effort to minimize the threat of the virus,” AI stressed. Netizens and celebrities alike also expressed their outrage over the president’s threats on various social media platforms. “What our people need now is empathy not threats,” tweeted ABS-CBN actress Liza Soberano. “Virus pa rin ba ang kalaban dito? Nasaan na ang konkretong plano? (Is virus still the enemy here? Where are the concrete plans?)” said TV host Gretchen Ho in a tweet. GMA actress Lauren Young, meanwhile, posted: “Takot na nga yung mga tao (The people are already scared) because of this virus. Their own government is depriving them of food, their officials are MIA, one was parading about without following guidelines and you have the nerve to scare them even more with violence? WHY? How is that helpful?” Actress Agot Isidro also tweeted: “People are hungry. People are sick. People are dying. And you talk about shooting them dead??? It’s a fracking HEALTH CRISIS!” “Duterte is not incompetent. He is culpable. When he endorses the killings of urban poor communities, it is not an act of mediocrity but an act of evil,” one netizen posted. “Bigas, hindi bala. Batas, hindi dahas. Tulong, hindi kulong. Mass test, hindi mass arrest,” another one said. Palace: Duterte’s threats legal Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, for his part, said Duterte is allowed to make violent threats against leftist groups looking to stir public sentiment against the government. “Threatening violators and enemies of the state with deathly violence is not a crime. The law allows the use of lethal violence when the person’s life using it hangs on balance,” he noted Friday. “The president is tasked by the Constitution to enforce it and the laws of the land. Transgressors will suffer the consequences of their violations as imposed by law,” he added. n
Coronavirus cases around the... PAGE A1 t
one individual between 41– 65 years old. Additional information regarding some of the new cases is pending further investigation. Over the last 48 hours, there have been 1,055 new cases. “Every life lost to COVID-19 is precious and we extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who have died,” said Barbara Ferrer, the county’s director of Public Health. “As we reach our goal of testing 10,000 people a day, we need to prepare for a significant increase in the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19; we could easily see 1,000 cases or more per day in the near future.” She reminded the public to continue distancing, covering their faces when they need to leave their homes and staying
home when ill. PH cases breach 3,000 The total number of COVID19 in the Philippines reached 3,018 on Friday after the Department of Health reported 385 new cases. The agency also recorded 29 new deaths, bringing the death toll to 136. Dr. Beverly Ho, the special assistant to Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, pointed out that the “sudden spike in [the] number of deaths is attributed to the late reporting of previous deaths.” Meanwhile, there is only one new reported recovery, bringing the official tally to 52. Presidential Peace Adviser and COVID-19 response head Carlito Galvez, Jr., for his part, confirmed that mass testing for the virus will start by April 14. “On massive testing for [Pa-
tients Under Investigation] and [Patients Under Monitoring], we are also determined to fast track the accreditation of substantial laboratories so we can start the massive testing,” he said. Ho said that the COVID-19 cases in the country will continue to increase as they conduct more tests. “[W]e will see more cases because we will conduct more tests. The number of confirmed cases will continue to rise in the next few days as we are able to test more people,” she said. She also urged everyone to “get used to a different kind of normal” amid the pandemic. “[W]e must get used to a different kind of normal while there is still no vaccine against COVID-19,” she said in Filipino at a press briefing. n
Fil-Am designers shift from dress making...
PAGE A1 t health care industry, whether as doctors, operators of home care, rehab, or spa businesses,” Oliver Tolentino, a celebrity couture designer based in Beverly Hills, California who spent the earlier months of the year designing attire for red carpet events, told the Asian Journal. His masks are made of polyethylene fabric — a common material used for surgical face masks — mimicking the pattern used by major manufacturer 3M with pleats, a nose wire and garter. “I use non-toxic glue to seal floral wire (or ‘twisties’ used to seal bread loaves) [on] the top of the mask so it can fit snugly around the nose. I sew the pleats at the side and double-stitch the garter to secure it,” Tolentino added. Once he posted a photo of himself making masks on social media, he started receiving messages from followers from around the United States and back in the Philippines asking whether he would sell his creations. However, he said he will be donating them and not charging. Kristine Amarillo, who has her LA-based line Tale for Esther, Oliver Tolentino, a celebrity couture designer in Beverly Hills, California, is donating the masks Contributed photo u PAGE A4 he makes from home.
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Pinay detective in Santa Rosa becomes first... PAGE A1 t on Tuesday, March 31 after testing positive for COVID-19 earlier in the month, the department confirmed in an email with the Asian Journal. A resident of American Canyon in Napa County, she was also the county’s first death related to COVID-19. In addition to the procession featuring patrol cars from across the state, the police department on Friday honored her by wearing blue. “Marylou was a bright light in this organization. She was a thoughtful and committed public servant who loved helping people and loved the people she worked with,” police chief Rainer Navarro said in a video shared on Twitter. Armer was a member of the police department’s domestic violence sexual assault team at the time of her death. She began her career in Santa Rosa as a field evidence technician in 1999 and was sworn in as a police officer in May 2008.
Before moving to Northern California, Armer grew up in San Diego and joined the National City Police Department’s Explorer program. “She’s a very caring person and wanted to be there to help the community,” her sister Marites Lau, who lives in Riverside County, told NBC San Diego. ”We never thought that this COVID-19 is the one that’s going to put her in the hospital and take her away from us.” In July 2013, Armer and another officer arrested a woman on suspicion of drunk driving when a male passenger came at them and attacked Armer, resulting in serious injuries to her head and face. She recovered and returned to duty. “She was naturally just a hard worker and a fighter,” Police Capt. John Cregan told the Napa Valley Register. Colleagues also remembered how Armer would bring lumpia (Filipino fried spring rolls) to staff potlucks or
even on any given day. “It wouldn’t last a half hour,” Blaine Hunt, a retired officer, told the Napa Valley Register. She could never make enough of it to make the whole department happy.” Governor Gavin Newsom on Thursday released a statement in light of Armer’s death and ordered flags at the Capitol to be flown at half-staff. “Jennifer and I are terribly saddened to learn of Detective Armer’s untimely death,” Newsom said. “Amid the current fight against COVID-19, Detective Armer selflessly and courageously served her community and the people of California. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, colleagues and members of the Santa Rosa community as they mourn her loss.” Armer is survived by her husband and daughter. The Peace Officers Research Association of California has set up a fundraiser for Armer’s family. (AJPress)
have been done because… we’re hearing back that San Francisco, as an example, is one of the areas that is not being overwhelmed in terms of bed capacity and hospitals,” Harris said. The historic bipartisan $2.2 trillion stimulus bill passed in Congress and signed by Trump on Thursday, March 26 was a start in providing relief with key provisions giving most Americans $1,200 and expanding unemployment insurance to selfemployed individuals. Governor Gavin Newsom reported that 1 million Californians have filed for unemployment since March 13. The state offers $450 per week of unemployment insurance, while the Senate bill adds $600 per week up to four months. The plan also provides emergency grants up to $10,000 for small businesses to cover operating costs and $350 billion for the Small Business Administration to provide up to $10 million in loans. “As we go forward, one of my biggest areas of focus is going to be on supporting small business owners, especially in the Asian community, as well as so many others. It’s a family business, it’s intergenerational. It represents an economic lifeblood, not only for the family, but for the community,” Harris said. The plan allocates a $150 billion fund for the health care system so hospitals can purchase masks, ventilators and other necessary equipment as more patients come in. However, the senator said the relief package falls short in addressing other issues, such as paid sick leave for front-line workers. “[The bill] was a function of the urgency of the moment, but it really was not sufficient. That’s actually why I have not come home and I’m still in DC working on the next phase of this,” she said. “Our Filipino community is being very hard hit [with] a lot of health care workers on the front line,” Harris said, adding that more follow up legislation needs to expand on more support. “Also things like helping to pay for childcare for those essential workers…[and] looking at other ways that they can be supported in what is actually required of them to go to work every day and leave their homes.” With the pandemic, it’s also opened up a bigger conversation on the need for systemic changes, whether health care coverage for all Americans or the capacity of federal disaster response. Harris made a plea for Californians to fill out their 2020 Census form, as the data helps determine how federal funds
PH receives nearly $4-M...
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in total assistance over the past 20 years, the U.S. Department of State noted in its report. Other ASEAN countries that received financial assistance from the U.S. are Cambodia ($2 million), Indonesia ($2.3 million), Laos (nearly $2 million), Myanmar ($3.8 million), Thailand ($1.2 million) and Vietnam (nearly $3 million). “Our country continues to be the single largest health and humanitarian donor for both longterm development and capacity building efforts with partners, and emergency response efforts in the face of recurrent crises, the U.S. Department of State said. The U.S. funding to ASEAN countries on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) aims to support the following goals: • prepare laboratories for large-scale testing for COVID19;
• infection prevention and control; • enable risk communication; • implement public-health emergency plans for border points of entry; • activate case-finding and event-based surveillance for influenza-like illnesses; • train and equip rapid-responders in investigation and contact-tracing; • and update training materials for health workers. The U.S. government agencies spearheading international response, including The Department of State, USAID, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are working closely to allocate funds based on COVID-19 hotspots and vulnerabilities. The. U.S. is also coordinating with other donors to complement assistance and avoid duplicating efforts. n
‘I’ve never seen doctors so scared by an infection’: Doctors lament skyrocketing COVID-19 cases, deaths Medical experts urge lawmakers to practice treatment equity, call for more tests to be administered to lower-income areas by Klarize
Medenilla AJPress
ONE month ago, lawmakers across the United States, including President Donald Trump, questioned the veracity and severity of the novel coronavirus within the U.S. despite warnings from the medical community. Back then, there were only a handful of cases across all 50 states; only 100 cases were reported as of March 2. Today, there are 190,740 cases and counting, according to the latest figures from the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center. In a matter of weeks, the cases and deaths by COVID-19 skyrocketed, especially in states like California and New York. On March 2, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the state’s first confirmed case; as of March 31, there are more than 38,000 cases and 1,218 deaths across are allocated to each state, and the state (914 deaths in New York to vote in the upcoming election City alone). The exponential rise in cases this fall. “Who holds these positions and deaths prompted a national matters in times like this,” Har- emergency declaration from ris said. “We have to make sure Trump and countless state and that we have elected representa- local safer-at-home measures. In a virtual press briefing on tives who understand the community…and who speak up for Thursday, March 27 hosted by the community. No one should Ethnic Media Service, doctors and be made to fight alone, we’re all medical experts addressed the in this together.” (Christina M. state of affairs within the health care industry regarding the expooriel/AJPress)
CA Sen. Kamala Harris condemns anti-Asian... PAGE A1 t Journal, adding that the pandemic is amplifying existing racism and disparities. “This is just another example of the absence of leadership by this president. This should be a moment when he should be saying, ‘We’re all in this together’ and treat each other with kindness and respect.” President Donald Trump seemingly backtracked on his words when he tweeted on March 23: “It is very important that we totally protect our Asian American community in the United States, and all around the world. They are amazing people, and the spreading of the Virus…is NOT their fault in any way, shape, or form. They are working closely with us to get rid of it. WE WILL PREVAIL TOGETHER!” Many lawmakers and community leaders, however, say the president’s message is too late as hundreds of acts of violence and discrimination continue to be reported on a daily basis. The FBI said it anticipates incidents to increase against Asian American communities “based on the assumption that a portion of the U.S. public will associate COVID-19 with China and Asian American populations.” The STOP AAPI HATE Reporting Center — an initiative founded by the Asian Pacific Policy & Planning Council (A3PCON), Chinese for Affirmative Action (CAA) and San Francisco Asian American Studies Department — said that over 750 incidents were documented during a 12day period. “What we have to do as leaders is remind people, they are not alone and encourage them to report these crimes because they are crimes and that we have to advocate to say there needs to be investigation and prosecution,” Harris said. With stay-at-home orders and social distancing in place, many Asian Americans may feel isolated and more fearful to speak up about such incidents. New York state has set up a hotline, while Los Angeles County encourages residents to call 2-1-1 to report. Harris also urged other state attorneys general to follow suit and establish their own lines. The senator also lauded her home state and the local elected officials in cities and towns who enacted orders to slow the spread of the virus early on. California now has 8,700 coronavirus cases as of Wednesday, April 1, according to the Johns Hopkins University CSSE tracker. However, in San Francisco County only a total of 374 cases have been confirmed, which officials say is a testament to the distancing measures taken. “We now know it was one of the smartest things that could
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • ApRIL 4-7, 2020 A
nential rise of the pathogen. Addressing the gravity of the current situation, the doctors wanted to nip one thing in the bud: although it is similar to other infections like the common cold or the flu, the COVID-19 virus is shaping up to be more deadly and the public ought to treat it more seriously. “As a doctor, I’ve never seen doctors so scared by an infection, ever,” said Dr. Tung Nguyen, an internist at the University of California, San Francisco, emphasizing the importance of prevention. “Every thousand people infected, 15 to 45 people will die, which is 15 to 50 times more deadly than the seasonal flu.” “No health care system can deal with uncontrolled spread and at this point, the most important thing in terms of prevention are two words: stay home,” Nguyen said. “Every time you interrupt a point of transmission, the downstream effect is huge. Having one person not infected isn’t just protecting that one person, it’s actually protecting many, many other people.” He also warned the public about the airborne nature of the virus, sharing that people should “be wary of touching objects because right now, the data shows that the virus may be in the air for up to three hours on cardboard, for up to 24 hours on plastic, and 72 hours on steel.”
Preventative care, as Nguyen emphasized, is the first line of defense against the spread of the disease. In terms of treatment, Nguyen said that tests for the virus should only be administered to those who show symptoms. The lack of tests, as well as the lack of ventilators and other medical equipment, have been a concern for medical professionals, especially those on the front lines like EMTs and ER and ICU nurses. In regards to the testing, Nguyen said, “In my view, most reputable testing centers should not test people without symptoms,” and added that people should consult their primary care physicians. (In Los Angeles County, you cannot get a test without permission from a physician.) But whatever the number of confirmed cases may be on any given day does not reflect the true scope of this pandemic, and many factors stand in the way of obtaining a test for swaths of the community. Inequities Dr. Daniel Turner-Lloveras of Harbor-UCLA Medical Clinic lamented the legislative barriers that may make testing and treatment inaccessible to 43% of the undocumented community who don’t have health insurance, especially after the Trump administration’s new public charge rule
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Fil-Am designers shift from dress making...
PAGE A2 t began production with fabric she already had on hand after her own family members and friends who are nurses and caregivers desperately said they needed face protection. “My sister is a nurse and she was very disappointed to find out that the CDC recommends only wearing surgical masks if you are directly taking care of a suspected COVID patient and wear the N95 respirator only when intubating a patient during a code blue. This is brought upon by the worldwide shortage of PPEs,” Amarillo said. Her sister’s hospital was reportedly following those recommendations so fellow nurses have been worried since individuals can also have the virus but be asymptomatic.
“The thought of having these health care workers — especially having a family member — battle this pandemic with little protection pushed me to help. I gathered whatever materials I have and started making masks,” she added, describing the creation of washable and re-usable masks with pocketing in the inner lining so the health care workers can change the filter daily. So far, she has made over 100 pieces and has shipped them to contacts across California and in Florida, Hawaii and Montana, and will continue producing until her fabric runs out. While business for Alexis Monsanto, also a couture designer, hasn’t entirely slowed down since clients have events later this year, he turned his atelier along Melrose Avenue in LA
Tale for Esther.jpg - Kristine Amarillo, who runs her line Tale for Esther, made masks for family and friends in the health care industry.
into a production line for making medical grade masks. “I currently have orders for weddings but I’ve pivoted my production to the facial masks to help meet the demands in the market,” he said, sharing stories of nurses having to reuse their PPE or get creative to shield themselves. As of the beginning of April, he and his crew of five sewers have produced 1,400 washable masks, following standards by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), using 100% Egyptian cotton with an 800 thread-count for the outer layer and an inner layer of polypropylene. Of that number, 800 will be donated to various organizations, including Downey Rehab Facility, Asian Pacific AIDS Intervention Team, and the AIDS Healthcare Foundation locally in LA, while the remaining 600 will be shipped around the country. Each mask is packaged in plastic to ensure cleanliness. Last month, Mayor Eric Garcetti announced “LA Protects,” a partnership with the fashion and garment industry to make protective gear and other medical supplies for frontline workers. The initial target for the initiative is the manufacturing of 5 million non-medical masks for people who need protection — grocery store workers, non-medical staff in hospitals, and others providing essential services during the COVID-19 crisis, according to the mayor’s office. “I have fabric vendor connections, factories and friends will-
Alexis Monsanto uses 100% Egyptian cotton with an 800 thread-count for the outer layer of his masks. He and his team have made 1,400 masks to date.
ing to pitch in financial help to pay labor cost to the contractors. It’s made in Los Angeles and in doing so, I’m keeping the operators on their livelihoods instead of them getting laid off,” Monsanto said, adding that he’s in touch with the offices Garcetti and California Governor Gavin Newsom who have a list of hospitals and facilities in dire need. Monsanto said he will continue pushing out 1,500 to 2,000 a week and move to sell them as this week, LA issued guidance directing residents to wear face coverings — such as a bandana, scarf or other cloth — when leaving their homes. The city, however, said medical grade masks should be reserved for front-linDowntown LA-based designer Joey Galon shared washable, breathable and decorative masks, using lace and sequin embellishments or whimsical patterns like snake print or florals.
ers. The CDC on Friday, April 3 also updated its guidance for Americans to cover their faces in public areas where social distancing is hard to maintain, such as the grocery store, because the virus can “spread between people interacting in close proximity.” Joey Galon said he was starting to get “stir crazy” staying in and was compelled to create with his hands since orders for formal attire have ceased. Galon’s designs are washable, breathable and decorative, using lace and sequin embellishments or whimsical patterns like snake print or florals. However, they should only be used by those who are stepping out for an activity like going to the market and not those who work in the medical or other essential fields. “For me, one challenge has been keeping up with the demand of the orders,” he said, sharing that one local company has ordered 100 masks while groups in Hawaii and Atlanta have requested as well. “It’s a simple template and pattern but it’s amazing how many hundreds of orders are coming in. I’m just a one man show, not a manufacturer with a lot of machinery.” He added that he’s also looking to work with the mayor’s office for fabrics to join in the LA Protects effort. Other Fil-Am small businesses have also shifted to mask making. Handbag designer Gina Alexander announced her ef-
forts to produce medical grade masks. Manahan+Co, an apron company, is selling masks and will donate $1 of the proceeds to Pilipino Workers Center. ELLERALI, a brand that uses upcycled fabric, has donated 100 masks to hospitals and is selling masks that include a pocket for extra filter protection and a slit for a removable nose bridge. Hawaii-based designer Kini Zamora, who’s known for his stint on “Project Runway,” told the Asian Journal that he knew people would need to fill their time under quarantine, so he decided to record a series of “howto” videos on YouTube. The first release in mid-March was a tutorial on how to make a personal mask using cotton fabric, elastic and basic tools from the comfort of their homes. By making their own masks, Zamora said, it would prevent regular individuals from buying the ones reserved for front-liners. He and his team also started making dozens of masks for health care professionals in the Honolulu area before he closed down his workshop. “I love that everyone is just collaborating and so many designers are coming on board every single day to help with the efforts. It’s not just designers, but everybody at home who’s pulling out their sewing machines,” Zamora said. “That was my intent when I created the YouTube video to make sure that people are keeping busy at home and helping out.” n
Hawaii designer Kini Zamora made a YouTube tutorial video showing individuals staying at home how to make masks using cloth fabric and other easy materials.
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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • ApRIL 4-7, 2020
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California’s two largest public higher ed systems temporarily ease admission requirements UC, CSU cite mass disruptions to K-12 schools in decisions to change requirements for 2021 and incoming fall 2020 students by Klarize
Medenilla AJPress
PARAÑAQUE BENEFICIARIES GET FINANCIAL AID. The chief implementer of the government’s national policy on addressing the COVID-19 outbreak, Secretary Carlito Galvez (2nd from right), and Parañaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez (left), lead the distribution of the P8,000 cash aid to beneficiaries in the city’s Barangay Vitalez on Friday, April 3. Poor families from Parañaque and Manila affected by the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine were the first to receive the emergency subsidies from the national government. PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan
LA County officials discuss immigrant rights... PAGE A1 t So those who are undocumented and wish to seek medical advice or treatment for the COVID-19 virus and have insurance or Medi-Cal are advised to call their primary care doctors first. Sharp also mentioned that for those who are uninsured and living in LA County, My Health LA is a county-funded health care program for low-income Angelenos that Sharp said “will also not count against you” in regards to public charge. As previously reported in the Asian Journal, the Trump administration expanded the list of social programs and benefits under the public charge rule. But as Sharp said on the call, the Department of Homeland Security noted in the changed rule that benefits received by one household member won’t be counted against another living in the same home. Due to the mass hysteria surrounding the pandemic, the uptick of “panic buying” and the high demand for paper goods and household supplies continues to surge, making it ripe for some business owners to price gouge certain items.
Local residents have complained that the prices for necessities like bottled water, hand sanitizer and toilet paper have shot up significantly since the pandemic as a way for shop owners to capitalize on people’s basic needs. Maggie Becerra, deputy director of the Wage Enforcement Program at the DCBA, affirmed that price gouging is illegal for businesses, contractors or individual vendors to “sell or offer to sell any food items, goods, or services for a price of more than 10% above the price charged before the declaration of emergency.” Becerra encourages all who see price gouging taking place to file complaints through the DCBA website. She added that it would also be helpful to include pictures, receipts or any form of documentation to include in the complaint. “Our department has designated counselors and investigators to ensure that all reporting is recorded and reviewed for potential prosecution,” Becerra added. “We are working closely with the prosecuting agencies to ensure that action, in terms of the overpricing that we’re all
seeing for vital and necessary items during this crisis.” In addition to tackling the increase of price gouging occurring throughout the county, Becerra noted that the DCBA is also working to establish clear rules and regulations for businesses and its workers during this national emergency. Many businesses across the Southland have been laying off employees as a way to keep their business afloat while others have remained open for business despite recommendations to close during the local emergency. As the head of the Wage Enforcement Program, Becerra reminded those who work in unincorporated areas of the county that a minimum wage applies to employees who work at least two hours a week. “We understand that both businesses and workers are experiencing challenges and are making sure their doors stay open while dealing with layoff and unemployment, and we are working closely with local and state agencies to make sure resources are available to help them because wages are equally important as workplace safety right now,” Becerra said. n
In response to the novel coronavirus outbreak that has upended the lives of students in California, the University of California (UC) and California State University (Cal State) systems announced they would be relaxing its admissions requirements for 2021 and beyond, according to two separate announcements released on Wednesday, April 1. The UC Board of Regents, the governing body of the UC that oversees nearly 300,000 students across 10 campuses, decided to ease UC admissions criteria late Tuesday night as a response to the cancellation of testing by the SAT and ACT this spring amid the coronavirus-related school cancellations across the state. “We want to help alleviate the tremendous disruption and anxiety that is already overwhelming prospective students due to COVID-19,” John A. Perez, chair fo the UC Board of Regents said in a statement. “By removing artificial barriers and decreasing stressors — including suspending the use of the SAT — for this unprecedented moment in time, we hope there will be less worry for our future students.” Most high schools have adopted a “pass/fail” or “credit/no credit” form of grading instead of letter grades for any of the 15 A-G courses needed to be eligible for UC admission, and the GPA they had before the shutdown will be accepted. As major determinants for college admission, the cancellation of the SAT, ACT and other college entrance tests for fall 2021 admission was a major turning point for prospective students of the UC and the CSU. “The COVID-19 outbreak is a disaster of historic proportions disrupting every aspect of our lives, including education for high school students, among others,” UC President Janet Napolitano said in a statement endorsing the changes. “The University’s flexibility at this crucial time will ensure prospective students aiming for UC get a full and fair shot — no matter their current challenges.”
Among other “short-term measures” that the Regents approved of include suspending letter grade requirements for AG courses that were completed in the winter/spring/summer 2020 quarters. Likewise, the Cal State sys-
tem, which oversees 23 diverse campuses from Humboldt to San Diego, has also implemented its own relaxed measures in a statement from the Office of the Chancellor. “With the COVID-19 pan-
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‘No new fight schedules yet’ – Arum 881 Filipino seafarers from US repatriated by JoseF
ramos ManilaTimes.net
TOP Rank boss Bob Arum said it is still unknown when the postponed fights of Filipino world boxing champions Jerwin Ancajas and John Riel Casimero will happen as the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) wreaks havoc around the world. Ancajas was supposed to defend his International Boxing Federation (IBF) super flyweight title against Mexican Jonathan Javier Rodriguez on April 11 at the Cosmopolitan, while Casimero was supposed to fight Japanese Naoya Inoue in a unification bout on April 25 at the Mandalay Bay both in Las Vegas, Nevada. Top Rank announced the postponement of all its boxing events in March and April last March 16 because of the Covid19 pandemic. “I wish I have the ability to predict the future. I don’t know when this will be all over, I don’t know when will be able to do fights again,” the 88-year-old Arum told the The Manila Times in an overseas call.
Bob Arum
ManilaTimes.net photo
Arum said there is something bigger now than boxing. “That is not a major problem for the world, the major problem for the world is to conquer this virus so we can get back to business. When that will be, I absolutely have no idea. I’m not going to tell any date and talk like I know something because I don’t.” Arum is concerned about boxers who don’t have any income if they don’t fight. “You have
to look at these losses in these young men’s careers because they are not being able to pursue their activities because there are no fights and unlike promoters that can go on forever,” he said. “Fighters are athletes and they die young in the sense that they have live-in careers and so without taking a big chunk out of their careers by this inactivity.” Inoue, the reigning IBF and World Boxing Association bantamweight titleholder, and Ancajas did not fly to the United States after the pandemic exploded in mid-March while Casimero and his trainers were already in Las Vegas. Arum said he himself is following the orders of health authorities. “We’re staying inside the house, I go for a little walk, but the restaurants are all closed, everything is closed, and we are not interacting with people,” said Arum. “We are making the best of it, and hopefully we’ll conquer this virus and go back to normal. When that will be we don’t know.” n
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by Bernadette
tamayo ManilaTimes.net
THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday, April 1repatriated 881 Filipino crew from the United States. The group of repatriates is composed of 445 seafarers from Norwegian Cruises Dawn and Encore, and another 436 from MV Magica and MV Favolosa. The repatriates will undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine to
be monitored by the Bureau of Quarantine (BoQ). The DFA said that “with the world grappling with the Covid19 pandemic, the whole of [the] Philippine government continues its efforts in responding to Filipinos both here in the country and those overseas.” “The DFA works with other government agencies and the private sector in this whole government approach to facilitate the seamless repatriation of our
workers,” said DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers’ Affairs Sarah Lou Arriola. The DFA and the Philippine Embassy in Washington DC coordinated with the Department of Health (DoH), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Department of Transportation (DoTr), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the local manning agencies for their repatriation. n
Fil-Am cager Remy Martin declares for NBA Draft by Franco Luna Philstar.com
ARIZONA State point guard Remy Martin announced he is joining this year’s NBA draft. The junior cager, who was born to Filipina mother, confirmed this on his personal Instagram account on Tuesday, March 31.. Playing for the Arizona State Sun Devils in the Pac-12 Conference of the NCAA Division I tournament, the 21-year-old was awarded the conference’s Sixth Man of the Year in his freshman season and was later named to the Pac-12 Second Team in 2019. Should he be drafted, Martin will be the NBA’s second Filipino-American guard after Jordan Clarkson of the Utah Jazz. “I will forever cherish the time I have spent at ASU,” he wrote. “I have now decided to take another step into making my dream a reality,” he ended. “Starting from a young age, I have worked towards the opportunity to play in the NBA and I have now decided to take another step into making my dream a reality,” Martin said.
Remy Martin will pursue his NBA dream.
Photo from Instagram/@remymartin1fk
California’s two largest public higher ed... PAGE A5 t demic, it has become necessary to adjust some CSU admission requirements and prior guidance to incoming students for fall 2020 and beyond,” the guideline read. Like the UC, the Cal State campuses are accepting “credit/no credit” and “pass/fail” grades to satisfy the A-G requirements. But the Cal State will not hold its system-wide Early Start Program for the summer of 2020; although, individual campuses may offer online summer transitional programs. The College Board, the nonprofit organization that administers standardized tests and curricula for K-12 and higher education institutions, also recently announced changes to Advanced Placement (AP) exam content and format for tests administered for spring 2020. Both the Cal State and the UC will continue awarding credit to those who pass with a score of 3 or above. Additionally, students will not be penalized for late submissions of their official transcripts for high school seniors who have already been accepted. The UC and the Cal State still ask for students to send in final transcripts by July 1 and July 15, respectively, but admission offers will not be revoked if the deadline isn’t met. Filipino students and parents weigh in Jenny Fernandez, 16, is a junior at Franklin High School in Highland Park, and ever since the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) shut down, she and her mother have been worried college prospects. “Eleventh grade is the most important grade when it comes to applying for college, and I was really worried that with everything going on, my grades and all the things would just go down the toilet,” Fernandez told the Asian Journal in a recent phone interview. Fernandez was a part of the school’s varsity soccer team and was hoping to leverage her lifelong soccer career into a scholarship. Described as a high achiever by her mother, Fernandez is also a member of the California Schol-
arship Federation and planned on studying kinesiology in college. “Everything she’s done so far — soccer, AP and SAT test prep, getting involved in the various clubs on campus — has been towards getting into a great university, and as a parent, I was heartbroken when all of this went down,” Fernandez’s mother Pam said, calling her daughter an “unprovoked star student.” “She did all this on her own, and I’m so proud of her,” the mother said. “I never had to force her to get good grades and I was that you know, stereotypical Asian parent always dissatisfied with her report cards. And you know, she was really bummed out when all this went down and I just had to tell her that everything is gonna be okay. We just have to stay safe right now, and we’ll figure everything else out later.” In response to the loosened requirements for UC and CSU admissions, both mother and daughter felt that the latter’s chances of getting into her top three schools — UCLA, UC San Diego and Cal State Long Beach — were within reach despite the COVID-19-related social and institutional restrictions. “It was like a huge relief, and it makes sense because none of this is our fault and we should have a fair shot at applying and getting into these really prestigious schools,” Fernandez remarked, citing the changes in the SAT requirements as a personal comfort for her. She added, “I didn’t score as well as I wanted so knowing that that won’t factor into my application makes me feel a lot better.” As Filipino American families struggle to maintain some semblance of normal life for schoolaged children, parents are worried about the effectiveness of distance learning and if their children are still getting a quality learning experience through virtual lessons. Jeff and Moira Mendoza have two high schoolers, one in 9th grade and one in 11th grade. They had a similar fear that the Fernandez family had about
whether or not attending a university was on the cards for their 11th grader. (The couple asked not to include the names of their children.) “When the shutdowns happened across the district, we were all so worried about how this affects our kids’ possibilities of attending college,” Moira Mendoza told the Asian Journal. “And I think what [is] top of mind for us was how this affects their learning now. We commend the teachers for doing as much as they can for the students, but this doesn’t replace the value of a classroom.” In response to the UC’s and Cal State’s new flexibility in admissions, the Mendozas were also worried about how these changes affect financial aid. According to the Cal State’s guidelines, any financial aid that is awarded to a student will not impede their ability to be officially admitted after final transcripts are received and reviewed by their campus. The UC offered no specifics but assured that its campuses will work with students’ families over the summer to review financial aid eligibility. Despite these assurances, the Mendozas expressed concern over the family’s economic instability and predict that when their 11th grader begins applying to colleges, their financial situation will get even worse. Jeff Mendoza was recently laid off from his job as a floor manager at a local restaurant, and as a result, the family is in the process of applying for public benefits. “It’s difficult because as Filipinos, we have a lot of pride, and I always wanted to ensure that we would never have to rely on food stamps or anything like that,” he said. “And having a kid who’s almost ready for college, and worrying about how we’re going to pay for her applications and eventual tuition is just another stress we don’t need.” To that point, Moira Mendoza added, “And we know that we’re far from the only family going through this right now, and that is both comforting and terrifying.” n
‘I’ve never seen doctors so scared by an infection’...
PAGE A3 t that took effect on Feb. 23. “We cannot contain a virus outbreak by providing care to only some of the population. We cannot successfully contain an outbreak if there are those among us who are afraid to seek care,” Turner-Lloveras remarked. To his point, the lack of testing also “disproportionately” puts lower-income communities at a disadvantage. As an advocate for medical equity, he’s worked with other community leaders to establish hospitals as “ICE-free zones” to serve undocumented immigrants who may be hesitant to seek medical care for fear they would be captured by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Rishi Manchanda, doctor and founder of the medical advocacy organization HealthBegins, mirrored Turner-Lloveras’ thoughts
on the social equity concerns of the pandemic, which has negatively affected the economic wellbeing of people of color. “Lower wages and insufficient insurance coverage limits their access to treatment and often forces them to work even while ill, increasing the risk of exposure to the community,” Manchanda explained, pointing out that many people of color and immigrants work in service industries like health care, transit systems or in grocery stores, which further puts them at risk for exposure. The social inequity of this pandemic is multilayered, but one aspect of that that the speakers emphasized was the growing incidents of anti-Asian racism and hate. Written extensively in the Asian Journal, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) have reported disturbing
instances of verbal abuse, harassment and violence by people who accused them of having the virus or blaming them for the virus’ spread. “This is obviously a very challenging time for all Americans, and unfortunately, it has been made worse by racism and xenophobia that is targeting our Asian American communities,” said Manju Kulkarni, executive director of the Asian Pacific Policy and Planning Council (A3PCON), who shared the rise of hate crimes and acts of hate against Asian Americans in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, which began in Wuhan, China. According to Kulkarni, A3PCON has received more than 750 reports of hate crimes and acts of hate in the month of March, all related to the COVID19 virus. n
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A
Dateline PBeneficiaries hiliPPines to receive cash aid in full — DSWD
5 Filipinos land on Forbes Asia’s ‘30 Under 30’ list by aJPress FIVE Filipinos made it onto Forbes’s “30 Under 30 Asia” list for “challenging conventional wisdom and rewriting the rules for the next generation.” The 2020 roster, released on Thursday, April 2, includes skateboarder Margielyn Didal, The Cacao Project founder Louise Mabulo, PayMongo founder Francis Plaza, gymnast Carlos Yulo, and multimedia artist Breech Asher Harani. “This year’s Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list-makers inspire optimism in what is promising to be a tough year ahead. They are a resilient and energetic bunch who are facing challenges head-on and actively working for a future that matches their aspirations,” wrote Forbes 30 under 30 Asian editor Rana Wehbe. Didal, 20, won a gold medal for street skateboarding in the 2018 Asian Games, followed by successive wins in the 2019 SEA Games. Mabulo, 21, is a farming advocate who founded The Cacao Project that aids reforestation efforts and has helped with the revival of two water sources from increased water retention in soil. She has helped more than 200 farmers plant 80,000 trees to date. Plaza, 26, co-founded PayMongo, an online payment processing platform. His company recently raised $2.7 million in seed funding from PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel, San Francisco-based venture capital firm Founders Fund and fintech unicorn Stripe. Yulo, 20, is recognized as the first-ever male athlete from Southeast Asia to win gold at the 2019 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships. He also bagged two gold and five silver medals in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. He will represent the country in the Tokyo Olympics. Harani, 28, is a Davao-based filmmaker and digital artist who founded Alexandrite Pictures, an independent studio that produces multimedia works focused on diversity, migration, environment and culture. He has won several
Carlos Yulo (Gymnast)
Inquirer.net photo
Margielyn Didal (Skateboarder) Photo from Instagram/@margielyndidal
Francis Plaza (Founder, Paymongo) Inquirer.net photo
Louise Mabulo (Founder, The Cacao Project) Photo from Instagram/@louisedgmabulo
Breech Asher Harani (Multimedia Artist, Alexandrite Pictures)
awards before like the JCS International Young Creatives Award Winner 2019 by the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. Other personalities who landed on Forbes’ list this year are K-pop girl group Twice and “Parasite” actress So-dam Park, the current world No. 1 female tennis player Ashleigh Barty, and 14-year-old racing prodigy Juju Noda from Japan. “Young women under 21 especially stand out in our 2020 list: From Malaysia’s hijab-wearing wrestler to Bangladesh’s first female comedian and a social entrepreneur helping farmers in the
Philippines improve their livelihoods – these fierce gamechangers are shattering gender, age and cultural stereotypes across industries,” Wehbe noted. Selected from over 3,500 nominations, the 2020 list has honorees from 22 countries and territories represented across the Asia-Pacific region. India leads the region with the highest number of honorees of 69 on this year’s list, followed by China with 41. Japan came in third with 31 honorees while South Korea took fourth place with 25. Australia, Indonesia and Singapore are tied in fifth place with 22 honorees each. n
by Ritchel
Mendiola AJPress
LOW-INCOME households will be receiving between P5,000 to P8,000 in cash under the Philippine government’s coronavirus relief program, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said on Thursday, April 2. The cash will be given along with the food packs it is distributing to beneficiaries, according to DSWD Secretary Rolando Bautista. “In cash na ang matatanggap nila para makumpleto yung designated amount sa kanilang region. Hindi na ito magiging combination ng food packs at cash amount (They will receive it in cash so that the designated amount will be completed per region. It will not be a combination of food packs and the cash amount),” he said. He added, “Ibig sabihin, kung bibigyan sila ng tatlong package ng food packs which cost more than P1,000, hindi ito ibabawas sa designated amount per region (This means that if they receive, for instance, three food packages which cost more than P1,000, this amount will not be deducted from the cash assistance designated per region).” However, Bautista noted that the agency needs a minimum of three days to process the cash aid. “Minimum of three days yon, kaya na po iyon (that can be done),” he said. He added that the DSWD has already coordinated with the local government units (LGUs) to get the list of beneficiaries. Earlier, the agency said social amelioration card (SAC) forms will be distributed by LGUs to their constituents to be filled up with the required information, including personal information, monthly income, nature of work, and the like. This will serve as a validation tool to see whoever needs the assistance the most. “Dito na ngayon yung isang critical, magkakaroon ng validation, sisiguraduhin natin na yung mga target beneficiary ay talagang credible at talagang sila yung nakasaad sa social amelioration card (This is critical; there will be validation to ensure that the target beneficiaries are credible and
they are really the ones in the social amelioration card),” said Bautista. President Rodrigo Duterte signed the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act on March 24, granting him special powers to address the COVID-19 threat in the country. Under the law, P200 billion will be allocated to low-income households affected by the en-
hanced community quarantine enforced in Luzon. “We have allotted P200 billion for low-income households who are badly affected by the current crisis. Sila ang nasa informal sector (They are the ones in the informal sector) and those who live day to day on subsistence wages or no work no pay,” Duterte said March 30. n
A8 APRIL 4-7, 2020 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
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OPINION
Food security
FEATURES
WHILE families hard-hit by the enhanced community quarantine and extreme lockdowns worry about where their next meal will come from, farmers in the Cordilleras were recently forced to discard truckloads of their vegetable harvest because of their inability to sell the crops. With people losing their livelihoods and their purchasing power much diminished, and with quarantine protocols curtailing shopping routines, consumption is down except for essential items. The problem is aggravated by impositions on the movement of all types of cargo by local government units and barangays above the guidelines set by the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases. Into the third week of the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine and similar measures in several areas in the Visayas and Mindanao, the repeated public reminders of the task force to ensure the “unhampered” movement of cargo has yet to trickle down. Several local government units continue to operate like independent republics, imposing harsh restrictions that are threatening not only the livelihoods of farmers and fisherfolk but also food security in the quarantine areas.
Supply chains are disrupted and families are going hungry in this challenging period. It’s appalling to see tons of rotting carrots being dumped by the truckload into a ravine because of low demand at the La Trinidad agricultural trading post in Benguet. Authorities can improve coordination with the food-producing areas so that farmers can be assured of continued demand for their crops. Many local government units are distributing food to their needy constituents in the quarantine areas. With just a bit of coordination, the LGUs can buy vegetables, fruits and other crops from affected farmers so that nothing goes to waste. While focusing on the public health crisis, the government must not lose sight of the need to ensure food security and protect the agriculture sector, one of the most vulnerable to the economic fallout from the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Even before COVID-19 hit the country, rice
Editorial
farmers were already reeling from the impact of rice tariffication. Hog raisers continue to grapple with African swine fever. Bird flu has been reported in a quail farm in Nueva Ecija. Most people understand the objectives of the
COVID-19 quarantine and are willing to cooperate with the measures to protect public health. In turn, the government must see to it that the most basic need of people for food security is also protected. (Philstar.com)
URGENT CALL: To beat the coronavirus pandemic, all states should follow CA’s lead and be on a ‘stay at home’ order
The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS THE WAR against the coronavirus pandemic that has caught the world by surprise in January has made us all feel like the normal, free, and vibrant life we lived just three months ago feel like ages ago. No matter how much we resist it, no matter how uncomfortable and vulnerable it makes us feel, this is our new reality for now, and how this war will eventually end will depend so much on the decisions and actions we make right now. As of press time, the coronavirus pandemic has surpassed one million in the number of people infected, killing more than 56,000 people, with more than 223,000+ recovered. Here in the United States, there are more than 265,000 cases recorded and growing, with a death toll of more than 6,766, with 11,983+ recovered. In the Philippines, there have been 3,018+ confirmed cases, 136+ deaths, and 56+ recovered. The battle isn’t over. Here in the U.S, we are just approaching the apex, where we experience the surge in the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in-
fected people, and consequently, the worst days of the pandemic. With the limited resources available in our health care system — hospitals beds, ICU, medical equipment and supplies, personnel like doctors, nurses, healthcare workers — the goal is to delay the worst day so that our health system will not be overwhelmed, thereby having a better chance and means to effectively treat infected people toward recovery instead of death. The Sacramento Bee newspaper in California, home to the most number of Filipinos living in the United States, recently reported that “The University of Washington’s Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, founded in 2007 with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the state of Washington, has released dynamic projections showing when deaths from COVID-19 will peak in each state. The model assumes social distancing continues until the end of May.” [It is updated regularly as new data about the spread of the disease is reported]. According to the model, “California will see its worst day on April 26, when 119 of its residents will die from COVID-19.
By comparison, New York will see its worst day on April 10, when 855 of its residents will die. Florida will peak on May 4, when around 175 residents will die, and Texas will peak on May 6, when around 161 residents will die.” The optimistic news that the preventative measures are working is corroborated by actual numbers in California, especially from the San Francisco Bay Area. California was the first state to issue stay-at-home shelterin-place orders effective March 19, while the San Francisco Bay Area’s shelter-in-place order took effect on March 17. New York followed California’s lead, and NY Governor Andrew Cuomo has ordered the shutdown of all non-essential businesses in the state (with the cooperation of New Jersey and Connecticut) except for essential services beginning March 20. As NowThisPolitics reported on Thursday, April 3, this drastic proactive preventative measures implemented by California could very well be the “reason why California has not become a hotspot like New York or New Jersey. New York has a popula-
This is World War III
Commentary
ENRIQUE
Philstar.com photo
DE LA CRUZ
THE fight against the C-19 pandemic is a war, a war of global proportions. It is World War III, although it does not follow our stereotypes of combat in wartime; think World War II, or even, the many regional conflicts since. World War III does not follow our familiar paradigms about war. We do not need/use firearms, high caliber weapons, or technologically advanced armaments, like smart bombs, missiles, etc. The enemy is not another human being. The enemy, a pathogen, is invisible, insidious, and deadly. It is among us now, among families and communities worldwide. There are no geographic frontlines. Its spread has been facilitated by globalization, catching governments unprepared. C-19 has underscored our nature as one species. It is indifferent to the social constructions and divisions that we have devised to characterize, separate and divide people. Race, ethnicity, com-
munities, and countries. North/ South, East/West, developed/developing, geographic borders, etc., are meaningless to C-19. It will cross these social-economic and geographic boundaries because our communities have become globalized. Our civilization is now one planet, and as quantum physicists like to say, we are all entangled. Military generals like to speak of a front line, the second line of defense, etc. And then there is the civilian population. Where is the frontline in this war? The frontline is us, civilians. C-19 attacks us, individually, and then uses us to attack other individuals in our families and communities. In this war, first responders, in our health care system are often depicted as our frontline troops. This is somewhat misleading. Our hospitals, our medical professionals, the doctors and nurses and the various specialists, are really like field hospitals in a battle. They take care of the wounded (infected) and do what they can to save lives. Yes, they are heroic, and even at higher risk than us front line troops—another paradigm turned on its head. But it is what we do as individuals, as the
frontline troops, that determines whether our families and communities, and ultimately, our health care system and its personnel will not be overrun. As in war, knowledge about the enemy is important for it determines what frontline troops are instructed to do. What we know is that we do not yet have a vaccine against C-19. This would be our super-weapon if we had one, but that is several months away. We also know, that the pathogen manifests itself as a respiratory disease, like a cold, flu, or pneumonia, spreads primarily through human to human contact, via the fine droplets that we exude when we cough, sneeze, or speak. The virus can survive, for varying amounts of time on surfaces. And infection can spread by other humans touching those surfaces, and subsequently touching themselves, especially their faces: nose, mouth, eyes, where the virus can them make a short jump into our respiratory organs. As frontline troops, our task is fairly straightforward. We have to break this transmission cycle, by practicing physical social distancing, avoid directly touching high touch surfaces like
tion of nearly 20 million, and has seen 92,381 cases. California’s population is nearly double that—39.56 million in 2018—but has just 10,018 cases in California, including 216 deaths.” Politico reported that since California’s shelter-in-place order was issued, “after 14 days — the outermost period at which symptoms are believed to emerge post-infection — doctors at area hospitals are now reporting fewer cases than they expected to see at this point, and officials credit the lockdown with stemming the tide of patients they feared would flood into emergency rooms.” In a TV interview on CNN with Jake Tapper, Governor Newsom challenged other governors who had not yet issued stay-at-home orders with a simple question: “What are you waiting for? What more evidence do you need?… There’s no greater intervention, period, full stop, none, than physical distancing.” Indeed, all the state governors should be proactive and decisive now, in the absence of true leadership in the White House. The success of these preventative measures is contingent
u PAGE A10 doorknobs, railings, etc., washing our hands often, and avoid touching our faces with our bare hands, until we have washed them thoroughly. These are the basic safety practices that we as frontline troops need to do. We enhance our safety by PPEs, personal protective equipment like face masks and gloves, and the like. But we have to understand that PPEs are not fail-safe, just as body armor for combat troops only affords a measure of protection from bullets and explosive devices. Breaking the transmission cycle through basic safety practices is still fundamental. This is simple enough for almost all of us. This is what we have to execute as frontline troops. The second line of defense is our healthcare professionals who take care of the infected. Ironically, unlike field hospital personnel in war, these professionals have a dual role. They are also frontline troops; as individuals, they are targets of the pathogen and must act to break the cycle of transmission through basic safety practices. This complicates their tasks: think of trying to perform surgery while under fire. PPEs are thus even more vital for health care professionals since they are tasked with saving lives while re-
maining under fire. Finally, we have also troops in what might be considered a third line of defense. These are the individuals who are tasked with maintaining our infrastructure that keeps our supply chain of essential products, foods and services going. Grocery stores, pharmacies, farms, the electrical and energy grid, manufacturing, farm and production workers who keep our communities supplied with basics. Like second line workers, they too have dual roles: as individuals, they are front line troops who are tasked with keeping our vital infrastructures open. As frontline troops, they need to practice basic safety measures; and as infrastructure personnel, they may require specialized PPE’s to carry out their vital tasks. I will not go into much detail about the role of government and political leadership here. Suffice it to say that their jobs are akin to the military generals in time of war. World War III is turning many of our concepts and stereotypes about war on its head. The civilian population is our frontline troops. Their key role is to break the cycle of transmission by taking basic safety measures. The second line, and third-line troops, are also frontline troops,
but with second and third line tasks; more than just frontline troops, their needs for specialized equipment, etc., require special attention. If their positions get overrun, the front-line will inevitably collapse. As in war, certain truths still hold. There will be deaths, mostly unnecessary and meaningless. There will be chaos and suffering; there will be some who will profiteer, and some who will deliberately seek to inflict harm on others, like terrorists. But there will be, as in every war-torn community, many more who will perform acts of kindness and caring. Many will volunteer to perform a “dual role” where they see a need. These volunteers might cook for others, sew face masks, even help at hospitals. Or just do things to ensure that the most vulnerable are not left alone. They are our community’s angels and heroes. But, the bottom line is that front-liners, that is us: you, me, and everyone on frontline duty, needs to deliver on our appointed task: break C-19’s transmission cycle through the practice of basic safety behavior that we have been asked to perform. ••• Enrique de la Cruz is a professor emeritus of Asian American Studies.
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.
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Dateline PhiliPPines
Duterte well, working in Palace – Panelo by Catherine
Valente ManilaTimes.net
Malacañang on Thursday, april 2 denied rumors that President Rodrigo Duterte was confined at the cardinal Santos Medical center in San Juan city for a medical condition. Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo bared Duterte was in Malacañang “doing his presidential duties.” “We have been informed of a false news starting to spread on social media that PRRD (re-
ferring to Duterte) is already confined at cardinal Santos Hospital. We wish to inform the public that such information is absolutely false,” he said. “The President is fit and healthy and is currently doing his presidential duties at his official residence at the Bahay Pagbabago,” he added. “We caution our people to be wary of purveyors of false news and information and always watch and read official advisories relative to the President and
the implementation of the Bayanihan Heal as One act to put a stop to the spread of the deadly covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019),” Panelo said. Duterte will be on self-quarantine until april 7 to keep him free of covid-19. He tested negative for the virus more than two weeks ago. The President was last seen in public on Wednesday when he delivered a public address about the government’s response to the pandemic. n
BI eases visa rules for departing foreigners THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has further eased its rules by allowing the departure of foreigners with approved but unimplemented visas. Immigration commissioner Jaime Morente said that he has approved the easing of the visa rules to enable aliens whose applications for various types of visa were already approved by the bureau to leave during the period of the enhanced community quarantine against the coronavirus disease 2019 (cOVID-19) pandemic. “I have instructed our Port Operations Division (POD) to allow the departure of foreigners with approved but unimplemented vi-
sas, provided they meet certain conditions during this critical period,” the BI chief said on Friday, april 3. “Their visas can be revalidated and implemented when they return.” He added. Under normal circumstances, aliens whose visa applications have been approved are required to submit their passports to allow the BI to affix the visa. Morente said the move was to solve the predicament of foreigners who wish to immediately return to their home countries during the quarantine period, despite not fully completing procedures for visa application. POD chief grifton Medina ex-
plained that in lieu of the visa implementation stamp, the alien shall present to the immigration officer his valid passport; printout of his name in the agenda when said visa was approved, Department of Justice Indorsement, or certification from the approving office whichever applicable; and official receipts proving payment of reentry and exit permit fees. “Before clearing the passenger for departure, the immigration officer shall instruct the alien to immediately proceed to the BI main office upon return to apply for revalidation of his visa and its implementation on his passport,” Medina added. (William Depasupil/ManilaTimes.net)
Cayetano, other lawmakers return to quarantine by edu
Punay Philstar.com
ManIla — Speaker alan Peter cayetano and several lawmakers have gone back to self-quarantine after Secretary Eduardo año tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (cOVID-19). año, Department of the Interior and local government (DIlg) chief, attended the special session of congress last week. “We’re back to being PUM (person under monitoring) so we are not going out of our houses again. That’s our responsibility because DIlg Sec. año tested positive and we were together last March 23. That’s why we have to count another 14 days,” he said in a Facebook live post. Two other House members who attended the special session – acT-cIS party-list Rep. Eric Yap and Bulacan Rep. Jonathan Syalvarado – confirmed that they are again on self-quarantine. “I don’t have symptoms. I’m
just following quarantine protocol,” Yap told The STaR. alvarado said he also does not have any symptom and recalled practicing social distancing during the special session. “There’s no room for mistake. We have to be careful for the sake of our constituents,” he stressed. congress convened in a special session last March 23 to pass the Bayanihan to Heal as One act, which was also attended by año and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea. congressmen and staff at that special session had earlier gone into self-quarantine after Yap initially tested positive for the cOVID-19. The Research Institute for Tropical Medicine later admitted it had made a clerical error in Yap’s case. Meanwhile, only one House member – Bulacan Rep. Henry Villarica – remained positive for cOVID-19. He is confined in hospital since March 18 and was diagnosed with pneumonia. The
Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano Philstar.com photo
latest update from the House said he is in stable condition and recovering. Villarica last reported for work in congress on March 4 and attended last March 8 an event hosted by Baliuag Mayor Ferdie Estrella, who was reported earlier to be infected with cOVID-19. none among members of his staff, who have undergone self-quarantine, have exhibited symptoms so far. n
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Dateline PhiliPPines
Filipinos abroad who lost to COVID-19 now at 21 – DFA by Christia
marie Inquirer.net
ramos
MANILA — The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has so far claimed the lives of 21 Filipinos abroad, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said. According to figures released by the DFA on Friday, the total number of overseas Filipinos who tested positive for COVID19 increased to 466 with 18 new
cases. Of the 466 cases, 316 are currently undergoing treatment, while 129 patients have so far recovered. Seven new deaths have been recorded in America, Europe, and the Middle East regions, making the number of Filipinos who succumbed to the disease at 21, data from the DFA showed. The World Health Organization has declared COVID-19 a
pandemic. Globally, the virus has already infected over 1 million people in more than 180 countries and territories with the global death toll standing at 53,146. On the other hand, over 211,615 people have recovered so far from the disease, which was caused by a coronavirus named SARS-CoV2 that first emerged in China’s Wuhan City in Hubei province in late 2019. n
Lawmaker: National ID should be fast-tracked by Javier ismael ManilaTimes.net
SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian has stressed that the government needs to fast track the implementation of the national ID system for a quicker health and calamity response in the future to prevent a repeat of the mistakes committed in tracing persons suspected with Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections. Gatchalian recalled during a hearing of the Senate Committee on Health assessing the Philippine government’s preparedness on the outbreak of Covid-19 last February that Health Secretary
Francisco Duque 3rd admitted that they encountered difficulties tracing people who came in contact with Covid-19 patients because some have incomplete or erroneous contact details listed with airline companies. The senator said some countries with lower Covid-19 cases like Taiwan and Singapore used their respective national data to trace their citizens’ travel history. “The Philippines may learn from the experiences of Singapore and Taiwan on how these countries harnessed their national IDs in containing the outbreak that is sweeping across the globe.” Gatchalian said.
“That’s why the government needs to implement the national ID system as soon as possible to ensure that we will be more ready in case of future pandemics,” He added. Republic Act 11055, or the Philippine Identification System act, was signed by President Rodrigo Duterte in August 2018, creating a single official identification card for all citizens that would interconnect government-issued IDs. The government has started pilot testing the national ID system last year which originally was set to run up to June this year before formally rolling out the project in July next year. n
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Duterte strips LGUs of virus aid role by Catherine
valente ManilaTimes.net
PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has stripped local government units (LGUs) of their duty to provide emergency relief to areas affected by the enhanced community quarantine in Luzon. In his address to the nation on Wednesday,, April 1, Duterte said he had designated Social Welfare Secretary Rolando Bautista to take over the distribution effort after receiving complaints that there were local politicians who were pocketing dole-outs. “Tinanggal ko sa politiko kasi maraming reklamo. Tinanggal ko sa politiko ‘yung distribution ng pera pati ang bigas na pagkain (I will no longer allow politicians to lead the distribution following complaints. They can no longer distribute money and food),” he said. He warned that politicians usurping relief aid would be jailed until a vaccine for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) is developed. The enhanced community quarantine will last until April 12. The President also pledged a monthly emergency subsidy for 18 million poor households affected by the Covid crisis. He also threatened to order the arrest of people, especially those who belong to Left-leaning groups, who sow disorder during the health emergency. Duterte urged the public to obey the government because the
Covid-19 problem was getting more serious. On Thursday, the Department of Health said the country’s coronavirus cases had shot up to 2,633. The death toll also rose to 107. Health Secretary Francisco Duque 3rd called on the public to stay home and to follow all protocols. “Para ‘di na madagdagan pa ang Covid-positive patients, sundin po natin ang patakaran tulad ng pananatili sa bahay, physical distancing at palagiang paghuhugas ng kamay (To curb the spread of the virus and to stop the increase of cases, please follow the protocols — stay at home, observe physical distancing and always wash your hands),” he said in a televised briefing. A total of 4,344 patients had been tested for the disease and 1,275 were negative, Duque added. Latest figures from the Health department showed that there are 1,154 persons under investigation, while 6,321 are under monitoring. Meanwhile, Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, chairman of the Senate Committee on Health and a member of the Joint Oversight Committee that oversees the implementation of the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, called on the Department of Social Welfare and Development and other concerned agencies to expedite the release of assistance, especially to low-income families and members of the
vulnerable sector and informal workers. “Kailangan nang maibigay kaagad ang ayuda ng gobyerno sa mga Pilipino, lalung lalo na sa mga informal economy workers at parte ng vulnerable sector dahil habang tumatagal, mas dagdag pasakit pa ito sa problema natin ngayon (There is a need to immediately release the government assistance to Filipinos, most especially low-income families, members of the vulnerable sector and informal workers),” Go said. Considered part of the vulnerable sectors are senior citizens, persons with disability, pregnant and lactating women, solo parents, overseas Filipinos in distress who were repatriated or banned from traveling outside the country, indigenous peoples, members of the underprivileged sector, and homeless citizens. Go emphasized that the law had already given the government the necessary authority to act immediately and accordingly, as Covid-19 continues to threaten the livelihood of many and the economy of the country. Under Republic Act 11469, or the “Bayanihan to Heal as One Act,” over 18 million Filipino family beneficiaries will receive such assistance for two months. Go emphasized that there should be no politics involved in the distribution of aid and that the funds must be allocated fairly and distributed equitably, especially among those who need government assistance most. n
PACC not investigating Robredo after all as commissioner rejects earlier statement NBI going after social media MANILA — The Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) is not asking the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to investigate Vice President Leni Robredo after all. This was the pronouncement of PACC Commissioner Greco Belgica in a statement sent to reporters on Thursday, April 2. Earlier that day, fellow PACC Commissioner Manuelito Luna told reporters that the commission was asking the NBI to probe Robredo for actions that they said “compete with” or are “calculated to undermine” the national government’s efforts amid the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) scare. “PACC is not asking anyone to investigate VP Leni Robredo. On the other hand, we are
thankful to everyone who are helping the front liners and the needy including the VP,” Belgica said in his statement. “It was a personal opinion and request made by one of the Commissioners of PACC that does not reflect the sentiments of the Commission.” According to Luna, a number of the Office of the Vice President’s initiatives including its free shuttle service, its dorm for health workers and its donations of personal protective equipment for health workers on the frontlines “compete” with the Departments of Health (DOH) and Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), along with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. Lawyer Barry Gutierrez,
Robredo’s spokesperson, slammed the statement as “ridiculous, so inappropriate, [and] so out of touch.” “This is not the time for politicking. We are not concerned with any personality. Our main concern is to make sure all the needy Filipinos get all the help they need the President promised,” Belgica added. “Our concern is to end this COVID19 virus.” As of this writing, the health department has recorded 2,311 confirmed COVID-19 patients in the country as the death toll rose to 96. Hundreds of new cases have been detected daily since last week, owing to enhanced testing capabilities, the department said. (Franco Luna/Philstar. com)
users who criticize government, too by Kristine Joy
Philstar.com
Patag
MANILA — Rights lawyer Chel Diokno on Thursday, April 2 said the National Bureau of Investigation is going after social media users who “air their sentiments” on government’s response on the COVID-19 crisis. In a statement Thursday, Diokno said he took on a case of a social media user who was summoned by the bureau for investigation on a violation of Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code, which explains “unlawful use of means of publication and unlawful utterances.” Diokno said the NBI “is now going after even ordinary citizens for simply airing their sentiments on the government’s response to COVID-19 on social media.” NBI Deputy Director Ferdinand Lavin confirmed to Philstar. com the subpoena sent by Diokno and said the bureau has sent out “more than a dozen” of them. An ABS-CBN tweet report, however, said that the NBI Cybercrime DIvision clarified that the summons were related to the Bureau’s investigation on the spread of fake news on COVID19 online. The subpoena sent to Diokno’s client in particular noted that the investigation will be into the individual’s “publicly posted article concerning an alleged misuse of government funds.” The veteran rights lawyer said he took on the case because “the situation is turning ‘inhumane.’” “Ang dami nang namamatay, pati frontliners, pero imbis na COVID, kritiko ang gusto nilang
puksain (Many are dying, even frontliners, but instead of COVID, they want critics eliminated),” Diokno added. Article 154 of RPC Early in February, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra directed the NBI to conduct a case build up against people “on the alleged deliberate spread of misinformation and fake news about... and false reporting of the [COVID-19].” The Justice chief then said that the directive aims to avoid “causing undue panic and alarm.” The DOJ has yet to reply on questions whether the NBI issued subpoenas were made under this directive. The summons sent by the NBI did not cite the recently signed Republic Act 11469 or the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, which contains a provision on penalizing those who spread “false information” on social media regarding the COVID-19 crisis. Instead, it cited Article 154 of the RPC which penalizes the following: • Any person who by means of printing, lithography, or any other means of publication shall publish or cause to be published as news any false news which may endanger the public order, or cause damage to the interest or credit of the State; • Any person who by the same means, or by words, utterances or speeches shall encourage disobedience to the law or to the constituted authorities or praise, justify, or extol any act punished by law; • Any person who shall maliciously publish or cause to be
published any official resolution or document without proper authority, or before they have been published officially; or • Any person who shall print, publish, or distribute or cause to be printed, published, or distributed books, pamphlets, periodicals, or leaflets which do not bear the real printer’s name, or which are classified as anonymous. It is unclear if the said provision of the RPC covers published posts on social media. NBI probe into LGU officials This came after the NBI’s AntiGraft Division also asked Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto to come to the bureau’s office and explain his alleged violation of Republic Act 11469 or the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, specifically on the city’s supposed continuous tricycle operation. Sotto on March 19 said that the city government will comply with all national government directives, which include the suspension of mass transportation. RA 11469 was signed into law on March 24, and the said law is not retroactive. Asked if an act committed before the law punishing it was signed—that is, if penal laws be applied retroactively—Guevarra explained that “penal provisions of any law are not applied retroactively unless the offense is a continuing one and its commission has not been stopped.” The cited provision penalizes persons who... “publish or cause to be published as news any false news which may endanger the public order, or cause damage to the interest or credit of the State.” n
URGENT CALL: To beat the coronavirus pandemic...
PAGE A8 t
upon us. The sooner and the better we comply with these orders, the sooner will the return to our normal life will be. Take SOCIAL DISTANCING seriously as if your life depends on it because it does. Experts are now saying that the COVID19 could also be transmitted just by breathing or talking with an infected person within 6 feet distance. WARNING: You may be fined, issued citation or imprisoned if you do not obey the orders, pursuant to the rule of law. There are a lot more we will find out as new information come out about this virus. But for now, the best thing we can do is to faithfully obey the orders so we will win over the threat of the coronavirus pandemic: SOCIAL DISTANCING: • Avoid close contact • Avoid close contact with people who are sick • Stay home at home unless going to the hospital, buy groceries, medicine, or walk as allowed by the order • Put distance between yourself and other people 6 feet minimum. • Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus. • Keeping distance from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick. BETTER HYGIENE: • Clean your hands often
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. • If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Clean and disinfect • Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks. • If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection. WEAR A FACE MASK, even just your do-it-yourself mask, or a reusable washable mask. Use this when you are going to the grocery or any enclosed space just in case you are positive but without symptoms and you do not know about it. There is a shortage of the N-95 and other isolation masks and these should be reserved for health personnel taking care of sick people. IF YOU ARE SICK: • You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office. If you are not able to wear a face-
mask (for example, because it causes trouble breathing), then you should do your best to cover your coughs and sneezes, and people who are caring for you should wear a facemask if they enter your room. Learn what to do if you are sick. • If you are NOT sick: You do not need to wear an isolation facemask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a facemask). Facemasks may be in short supply and they should be saved for caregivers. Stay home if you’re sick • Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care. Cover coughs and sneezes • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. • Throw used tissues in the trash. • Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. STAY SAFE. God bless us all. *** Gel Santos Relos has been in news, talk, public service and educational broadcasting since 1989 with ABS-CBN and is now serving the Filipino audience using different platforms, including digital broadcasting, and print, and is working on a new public service program for the community. You may contact her through email at gelrelos@ icloud.com, or send her a message via Facebook at Facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos.
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The Asian Journal
S a t u rd a y, A P R I L 4 , 2 0 2 0
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LifestyLe Consumer Guide Community marketpLaCe
COVID-19 immigration Arjo, Ria share parents’ status update as of March 30, 2020 after testing positive for COVID-19
respond. 3. Unfortunately, USCIS continues to serve denials and requests for additional evidence while people are subject to the shelter in place quarantines. It is “business as usual” for USCIS, Atty. MichAel even as the officers continue to Gurfinkel, eSQ work from home. I believe it is unfair, as we don’t know if the WITH the advent of the COV- shelter in place or pandemic ID-19 pandemic, along w it h will be resolved within those “stay-at-home,” “shelter in place,” 60 days. Moreover, it is difficult quarantines, travel bans, etc., for people to be able to gather there has been a profound ef- the appropriate information and fect on immigration. Here are documents for responses, such some of the latest restrictions, as declarations, leases, bank limitations, and changes as of records, birth certificates from March 30, 2020. This is not an overseas, or other documentaexhaustive list, and is subject to change literally on a daily basis: 1. For those who have filed work authorization extension requests (Form I-765), which ordinarily require fingerprinting, USCIS will reuse your existing fingerprints on file, rather than having you go to an Application Support Center (ACS) tion necessary for a response to be re-fingerprinted. or appeal. People may risk a 2. For those of you who have denial for not providing suffia response due by a particular cient documentation when they date, USCIS has provided for a are prevented from being able 60-day extension from the due to properly gather documentadate for any response to a Re- tion or respond. USCIS should quest for Evidence (RFE), Notice simply hold these types of deciof Intent to Deny (NOID), Notice sions\denials in abeyance until of Intent to Revoke NOIR), Notice this pandemic is over. of Intent to Terminate (NOIT), However, if a person should or to file an appeal from a deci- miss a deadline because of the sion to the AAO, in connection COVID-19 pandemic, in certain with any decision/denial issued circumstances there could still between March 1, 2020 and May be relief available based on “ex1, 2020. traordinary circumstances.” a. For example, if a NOID is For my part, my office is still issued April 1, 2020, with a re- open and operational in order to sponse date of May 1, 2020, the serve our clients and commuperson would have an additional nity. While we are all operating 60 days beyond May 1, 2020 to remotely from our homes, all of
Immigration Corner
our staff members are equipped with technology and tools to continue to call clients, work on cases, and keep clients informed at all times. Consultations are still done by phone. This is a testimony to our commitment in serving our clients, and we are prepared to do so no matter what. This is a very difficult time for all of us, requiring virtually an overnight retooling in the way we operate. But we are up to the challenge, and we will continue to keep you informed of any further developments.” *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bars of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different and results may depend on the facts of the particular case. The information and opinions contained herein (including testimonials, “Success Stories”, endorsements and re-enactments) are of a general nature, and are not intended to apply to any particular case, and do not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw and Twitter @GurfinkelLaw Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: 1-866-487-3465 (866) – GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES ∙ SAN FRANCISCO ∙ NEW YORK ∙ PHILIPPINES
However, if a person should miss a deadline because of the COVID-19 pandemic, in certain circumstances there could still be relief available based on “extraordinary circumstances.”
(Advertising Supplement)
By Ratziel
San Juan Philstar.com
ACTRESS Sylvia Sanchez and husband Art Atayde are said to be slowly recovering and are even remaining optimistic during this tough time for their family after testing positive for the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), according to their children. “A week into their self-isolation and a week after having their swab tests done, our parents are slowly getting better. Although it’s taking longer than their usual recovery time, we are happy to see them with their spirits still high,” Kapamilya PAGE B2
Sylvia Sanchez and children Arjo and Ria Atayde
Philstar.com photo
Cristalle Belo delivers baby without husband By Jan
Milo SeveRo Philstar.com
Cristalle Belo-Pitt Photo from Instagram/@cristallebelo
SKINCARE entrepreneur Cristalle Belo gave birth to her second child yesterday. The announcement came from Cristalle as she posted it on her Instagram account. “Today was such an amazing day. I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl!” she wrote. “It was difficult not having @ justinpitt77 in the delivery room during my CS operation. However, we are happy to do our little part to protect our health [workers] from being exposed to ‘more people’,” she added. Cristalle described that her daughter is a symbol of hope, love, strength and miracles in this trying times. “Our little pumpkin is a sym-
bol of hope, love, strength and miracles in times like these. We are truly blessed to have her safe and healthy at this time,” she said. Apart from giving birth, the daughter of celebrity cosmetic doctor Vicki Belo said that they will be donating 31 packages to moms with babies in the new born intensive care units. “Since March 31 is a special day, we have also decided that will be donating 31 care packages to moms with babies in the NICU. Please contact @massagemnl to see if you are eligible for a gift pack. They will handle logistics while I rest and bond with our new baby girl. Thank you for all your prayers,” she said. Cristalle and husband Justin Pitt already have a son, Hunter, who is turning two years old this year.
EntErtainmEnt
B APRIL 4-7, 2020 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
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For Alessandra, directing while acting in a film is like ‘suicide’ by
Marinel r. Cruz Inquirer.net
Francisco Martin
AFTER making the romantic drama “Fluffy and Fream,” starring Piolo Pascual, Alessandra de Rossi now says directing “isn’t a priority.” “If they tell me, ‘A lex last mo na ‘yan! ‘Wag ka nang uulit,’ then I will accept it. If they say, ‘Keep making movies. I have a project for you,’ then why wou ld I t ur n dow n t he offer, especially if I like it and find it challenging enough?” she explained. Apparently, directing—and acting in it, too—proved to be too demanding for A lessandra. “Working with Piolo was a party. We were just playing Photo from Instagram/@franciscomartinmusic on the set. There were times when I had to say, ‘Ay, direktor pala ako, I gotta go! Puro na lang saya!’ But I’m not sure if I will direct a movie again. If ever, it’s not a priority. I realized that one should not act in and this experience. You’re just a d i rect a mov ie at t he sa me wonderful talent,” Luke added. time. It’s suicide!” Martin’s “Falling” performUn l i ke ot her a r t ist s who ance is now among the top- are very vocal when they are trending videos on YouTube. frustrated about something or His “American Idol” garnered someone, Alessandra says she millions of views on the plat- tends to “keep it inside me … form. T he bad t hing about it is In his “Idol” profile, Francisco said that he is proud of his Filipino heritage and he often covers some iconic Tagalog songs, including “Buwan” by MAX Collins and Pancho JK Labajo. “American Idol” suspended Magno are having a boy. The couple made the anits taping after the top 20 were selected and the contestants, nouncement on their recently including Martin, were sent published YouTube vlog, docuhome, due to the novel corona- menting the gender reveal party virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) they hosted in Melbourne, Australia, earlier this year. pandemic. Surrounded by their cheering family, Max and Pancho jumped for joy and hugged each other after popping a black balloon filled with blue confetti. “We ask that you continue to “We promise to love you and pray for our parents, our house- take care of you,” Pancho told hold that nobody else contracted his unborn baby. it, every other individual and famIn a video chat with GMA 7, ily dealing with this same ordeal the two actors’ home network, and of course, all our frontliners Max related that her husband who continue to risk their lives initially wanted to have a girl. “If everyday for our safety. Please she were a girl, maybe she could all stay safe, healthy, take your have ended up a daddy’s girl. vitamins and stay at home if you But, of course, we’re happy, rehave the option. - Arjo, Ria, Gela gardless of the gender, as long as and Xavi” PAGE B3
Fil-Am singer enters ‘American Idol’ top 20
posted on Twitter to thank the judges for including him in the competition’s top 20. He also showed appreciation FILIPINO American singer Francisco Martin recently en- for other “Idol” judges Lionel tered the top 20 of the current Richie, Luke Bryan and Katy season of hit U.S. talent search Perry, and also to host Ryan Seacrest. “American Idol.” Francisco sang Harry Styles’ In his Instagram account, Francisco thanked the reality “Falling” for the showcase singing competition for giving round on the show’s Sunday him a chance to showcase his episode in Hawaii. The judges were up on their feet after his talent. “Dazed and beyond grate- performance. Katy even likened him to ful. Thank you American Idol for giving this anxious boy a Bruno Mars. “I was like, is that Bruno chance,” wrote the 19-yearold “Francisco from Francis- Mars? I like it,” Katy said. “You check every box. I have co.” The pre-law student from a feeling that great things are San Francisco, California also just going to happen to you in by Jan
Milo Severo Philstar.com
Alessandra de rossi with Piolo Pascual
that, I wake up the following day with acidity attack, back p a i n s or a ny t h i n g p a i n f u l t hat I could possibly feel in my body.” W hat A lessandra appreciates about being the director, however, is that she is able to transform her vision into film. “I’ve written scripts before; a nd later du r i ng production, I would realize that the interpretation of the directors
Inquirer.net photo
were different from how I envisioned the scenes while writing them. Comedy ang sinulat ko, bakit sineryoso masyado?” she explained. “Of course, I d id n’t st udy f i l m ma k i ng so I’m not too technical about it. But at least I am able show the exact emotion I wanted while writing the script.” “Fluffy and Fream” is coproduced by Spring Films and Alessandra’s AWOO outfit.
Max wants water birth for baby boy
Arjo, Ria share parents’ status...
PAGE B1 stars Arjo and Ria Atayde along with their siblings Gela and Xavi posted together on social media Wednesday. “Apart from that, it has enlightened us to know that no one that they have come in contact with before the quarantine and no one else here at home are showing symptoms.” The siblings thanked their
loved ones and supporters for their “overwhelming love” during the family crisis. “Although it is difficult and anxiety-inducing knowing that both our parents are positive with COVID-19, all the well wishes and get well soon messages have definitely uplifted our family — especially them... Thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers,” read their post.
Pancho Magno and wife Max Collins are expecting a baby boy. Photo from Instagram/@magnopancho
Let Movies Inspire and Enlighten Others Xin Fan, Leading Producer of Educational Movies in China by
As a medium that makes dreams into reality, film has helped and influenced people long beyond their expectations and has led them to reflect on their lives and the world. Over 100 years ago, cinema began bringing various stories to its audiences, and countless people have been inspired by these different narratives. In traditional Chinese culture, educators have always preferred telling stories with the purpose of enlightening people to be more aware of life and the nature of the world. Since the Chinese film markets have grown, moviemakers have been working hard to bring a variety of excellent stories to millions of Chinese viewers. Among them, stories of educational significance are well-accepted and favored by the public, because people enhance their understanding of themselves as well as everything around them. Mr. Xin Fan is one of the best storytellers in China. As
SIMON ZHOU
a leading producer of movies with significant educational value, he not only brings his audiences tales originated from traditional Chinese culture and spirit but also lets them shine with inspiration for the viewers. As an independent producer, Mr. Fan has produced many co-production movies, bringing private companies, state-owned companies, and Hollywood together. Mr. Fan’s works never cease to explore the core of life. By working with other moviemakers, Mr. Fan desires to create a world that is instructive about Eastern life to all people. “What differentiates our stories from Western stories is that we use harmonious but changeable ways to see the world. Everything has causes and effects, and our stories reflect the intelligence of the East.” In his early days, Mr. Fan studied at London Film Academy, which helped him developed his sense of the
West to enrich his knowledge about the East. As a producer, Mr. Fan has worked with various Hollywood studios, such as Lionsgate. He is always confident about the spirit and core of his movies while depicting stories, characters, and all other elements. With the cooperation between Chinese studios and Hollywood studios, Mr. Fan feels the essence of a movie is delightful storytelling with a positive moral embedded in the story. Having produced several movies with his Hollywood partners, Mr. Fan is even more determined to have his movies reach more audiences. Over these past few years, his movies have been well-received in China, Europe, and the United States. His work Teenager was selected for entry at Festival Internazionale del Film di Roma in 2009; Full Circle received a special mention at Tokyo International Film Festival in 2012, and Forever Firework won the Humanitarian Film Award at
Press conference of the launch of series movie Seven Sages. Group photo with Andy Lau and creative team.
the Chinese American Film Festival in the United States in 2013. With the establishment of his studios in UK and the United States, Mr. Fan is going onto the international stage to show his movies to a broader range of international audiences. Mr. Fan is currently working on a magnificent movie series Seven Sages, a project themed of the eastern culture. In hope of creating superheroes of eastern culture, Mr. Fan has built up close collaboration with Andy Lau, one of the most influential people in this industry. Mr. Fan’s achievements and ambition throughout the years all make him an influential and leading producer for profound and meaningful films in China. Approaching an important milestone on the path to becoming an international movie producer, Mr. Fan continues to work hard as his audiences await his next production.
Mr. Fan received award at 2013 Chinese American Film Festival.
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Yeng apologizes for trouble with doctor, composes song for COVID-19 frontliners by DENI ROSE M. AFINIDAD-BERNARDO Philstar.com
IN response to what she claimed was a request from a doctor to boost the morale of frontliners battling novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), singer-songwriter Yeng Constantino released a new song titled “Kumapit.” In an Instagram post introducing the new song, Yeng shared that she composed the song after receiving a message from a Viber group that a doctor is requesting for encouragement videos from artists to lift frontliners’ spirits. “Nakatanggap po ako ng mensahe sa aming viber group na may doctor po na humihingi ng encouragement videos sa aming artists dahil marami daw po ang bumababa na ang loob dahil sa sobrang hirap ng sitwasyon natin ngayon at sa mga hospitals,” Constantino narrated. She confessed that at first, she was adamant to release the song due to a legal battle with a doctor in Siargao from last year to early this year. “Gustong-gusto ko pong gumawa ng video pero sa totoo lang po nahihiya ako. Dahil baka imbes na ma-encourage ko po kayo, eh, mainis kayo sakin dahil sa mistake na nagawa ko last year,” the actress said. “Ngayong araw, nag-desisyon po ako na itapon ang hiya at humingi ng tawad sa lahat po ng nasaktan ko sa medical field. Patawad po.” She was referring to a video blog (vlog) calling out the doctors and showing the photo and
Yeng Constantino
revealing the name of a doctor in a Siargao hospital for allegedly mishandling her husband Yan Asuncion, who was hospitalized after getting injured while cliffdiving. The doctor filed a cyber libel case against Constantino, for which the “Tawang ng Tanghalan” judge posted a P30,000 bail. Yeng said that despite what happened, she was inspired to write a new song that could give some boost to the frontliners. “Sa kinakaharap po natin ngayon mas nakita ko po na di matatawaran ang puso nyo sa pagtulong. Dahil ito po ang inyong piniling propesyon kahit nakakatakot hinaharap nyo po ang pagsubok na ito. Maraming maraming salamat
Photo from Instagram/@yeng
po. Naiindintihan ko po kung bakit marami sainyo ang sumama ang loob sakin,” she enthused. “Sa pagninilay-nilay ko po sa sitwasyon natin ngayon nakasulat po ako ng kanta na sana po ay makaencourage sa inyo pati narin po sa marami pang nawawalan na ng loob. Maraming salamat po! Saludo po kami sa inyong sakripisyo. Wag po kayo bumitaw. Kailangan po namin kayo.” Yeng was also part of Star Magic’s “When You Believe” inspirational music video that featured inspiring messages from COVID-19 survivors and patients, as well as ABS-CBN’s “Ililigtas Ka Niya,” in which artists’ royalties from the song will be donated to families affected by the enhanced community quarantine.
days. I just started a course on home birthing. I want to have a water birth, so I’m looking for a minipool,” she said. “I never thought it would come to this. But I think that this is probably the safest way.” Whether that happens depends on a lot of factors. “But I’m 100-percent sure about home birth. I still have to check if the position of the baby will allow me to do that. And I have been
How three divine signs helped make a mother’s final wish come true on a brand new episode of Citizen Pinoy
IT was their mother’s dying wish: “Hire Atty. Gurfi nkel so I can rest in peace.” Nanay Beat r i z pet it ioned her sons Romeo a nd Ma r io back in 1994, and when she became a U.S. citizen and her talking to my doctor about it,” sons married, the category was said the actress, who tied the updated to F-3. Unfortunately, knot with Pancho in December while waiting for the petition 2017. to become current, Nanay Beth Aside from the usual precau- develop ed c a ncer, a nd t he tionary measures, Max makes it a whole family was worried, not point to work out to keep herself just for Nanay Beth’s health, healthy. “You need to. How will I but also for t he petitions of be able to give birth naturally if her sons. my body isn’t in good shape? So, When Nanay Beatriz knew that’s what I’m preparing for,” her t i me was com i ng soon, Max said. (Allan Policarpio/In- she r el ayed her f i n a l w i sh quirer.net) to her U.S. citizen daughter,
Max wants water birth for baby...
PAGE B2 the baby’s healthy,” she said. The 27-year-old actress, who’s expected to give birth in July, admitted that the ongoing COVID19 pandemic has her worrying, and so she’s considering home birth. And because pregnant women are considered high-risk individuals, Max is also discouraged from going outside. “I don’t feel comfortable in a hospital setting, especially these
THREE DIVINE SIGNS GUIDED FAMILY TO HUMANITARIAN REVALIDATION APPROVAL. Nanay Beatriz petitioned her sons Romeo (left) and Mario (not in photo) back in 1994, and when she became a U.S. citizen, the category was updated from single child to married (F-3). However, Nanay Beatriz was diagnosed with late stage cancer, and her final wish was that her daughter, Juliet (3rd from left), make sure that her brothers make it to the U.S. by retaining leading U.S. immigration attorney MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL (right). The devout Juliet prayed for three signs to know how she should proceed, since after her mother died, the petition for her brothers “died” with her. And the signs came while Juliet was watching an episode of Citizen Pinoy. Find out what these three signs were, and see how the power of prayer and a dedicated team at the Law Offices of Michael J. Gurfinkel were able to make Nanay Beatriz’ final wish come true on an all-new episode of CITIZEN PINOY – on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC. (Advertising Supplement)
Ju l iet: H i re At t y. Gu r f i n kel to ta ke care of t he pet it ion for her sons, even if he is expensive. Nanay’s words were “A na k , sa la mat . K asi k a h it paano, alam kong gagawa ka ng paraan… para makarating ang mga kapatid mo…” (Thank you, child. I know that you will fi nd the means to be able to get your brothers here to the U.S.) One Sunday, at Church, Juliet prayed for three signs to know how she should proceed, since after her mother died, the petition for her brothers “died” with her. By divine intervention, Juliet discerned the three signs while watching an episode of Citizen Pinoy that
evening. During the Q&A portion of the show, (1) the fi rst person to ask a question was Bet h, which was her mother Beatriz’ nickname; (2) the second person’s name was Del, which is part of Juliet’s last name; and (3) the third person’s case was exactly the same as theirs: the petitioner died. Watc h how t he power of prayer and a dedicated team at the Law Offi ces of Michael J. Gurfi nkel were able to make Nanay Beatriz’ fi nal wish come true on an all-new episode of CITIZEN PINOY – on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC. (Advertising Supplement)
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Why Joshua was handpicked for upcoming mystery thriller by
Marinel Cruz Inquirer.net
“HE is one of the best actors we have now,” said director Chito Roño on why he personally picked Joshua Garcia to play one of the lead roles in his next film project, the mystery thriller “Ang Mga Kaibigan ni Mama
Susan.” Roño said he first watched Joshua in Antoinette Jadaone’s “Love You to the Stars and Back,” then in Mikhail Red’s “Block Z.” “Also, the character he is playing (Galo Manansala) requires him to show different emotions. It would be interesting
to see whether Joshua could do it,” Roño told Inquirer Entertainment shortly before they began shooting in March. The director also said that while Joshua would have a love interest in the movie, “the audience won’t be able to see her.” Roño also said he personally pitched the story to Regal Entertainment’s Roselle Monteverde, “because I found the book (on which it was based) to be very intriguing.” Roselle then asked author Bob Ong to write the screenplay. “Except for the slight change in the ending, the script remains true to the book. Mama Susan, who is Galo’s grandmother, will have three or four friends in the story,” Roño explained. “I find Mama Susan to be creepy.” The character is portrayed by veteran actress Angie Ferro. “Those who have read the novel know that this also tackles Mama Susan’s personality, and how she ends up becoming the leader of a religious cult,” he pointed out. Regal and coproducer Blacksheep have yet to set a date for the film’s commercial screening. “I don’t work for a playdate. ‘Pag natapos, natapos,” declared the award-winning filmmaker. The film also features Patrick Quiroz, Kelvin Miranda, Henz Villaraiz and Miko Gallardo.
Anne Curtis and Erwan Heussaff’s daughter, Dahlia Amelie
Photo from Instagram/@annecurtissmith)
Anne Curtis shows baby Dahlia Amélie through floral shoot on her first month Cha lino Inquirer.net
by
ACTRESS Anne Curtis marked the first month of her daughter Dahlia Amélie’s life through a simple flower-themed photoshoot. Curtis displayed her baby wearing a white dress side by side with a floral arrangement of the number 1, on her Instagram post today, April 3. The “It’s
Showtime” host, who is wed to celebrity chef Erwan Heussaff, gave birth to Dahlia in Australia on March 2. “Yesterday, we celebrated her 1st month of life,” she said. “We love you our little Dahlia Amélie (flowers emoji). Hoping this brings a smile to your face today.” Meanwhile, Heussaff revealed in his vlog that he is currently staying in Australia and
is unable to return back to the country due to the quarantine measures implemented amid the COVID-19 crisis. Despite being away from the country, Curtis has been extending her help to health workers and other frontliners battling the disease by donating gloves and alcohol to hospitals. Angel Locsin also thanked Curtis for donating tents to her initiative “UniTENTweStandPH.”
Rick Price collaborates with 2 Pinoy artists to breathe new life into his well-loved hits The Australian singer-songwriter gave Regine Velasquez and Morissette Amon the creative freedom to put their own flair to their parts by allan
PoliCarPio Inquirer.net
THE last time Rick Price held court in Manila (his Valentine concert in 2019), he noticed that among his usual audience were a good number of “younger generation fans singing along” to his songs. That sight promptly sparked an idea. Joshua Garcia “We decided that it would Photo from Instagram/@garciajoshuae be cool to rerelease some new versions of two of my most wellknown songs as a way to say thank you,” the Australian singer-songwriter told the Inquirer in a recent email interview. Through Sony Music, Rick was able to breathe new life to his well-loved ballads by having Filipino artists on board: Morissette Amon in “Heaven Knows” and Regine Velasquez in “Nothing Can Stop Us Now.” “I was so delighted when both Regine and Morissette agreed to record the duets with me. They’re such incredible singers and artists and I’m so thankful to have had the opportunity to work with them,” said Rick, who also commended the two singers’ dedication to their craft. “The voice is a gift from God. But I believe Regine and Morissette have such incredible passion for singing as well. That’s what makes them so great and unique,” added Rick, who described Regine’s voice as “exquisite”; and Morissette’s, that of “an angel.” Regine and Morissette were just as thrilled about working with Rick, whom they both look up to as a musician. “It’s a privilege for me to have been asked to collaborate with him,” Regine said. “I was very excited, knowing that I will be working with a well-respected singer-songwriter and producer whose talent I truly admire.” “Getting to work with an international music icon such as Rick is already such an honor,” Morissette said, adding that “Heaven Knows” was a song she grew up listening to. “It should be passed on through generations. This project inspires and challenges me to appreciate and do different types of music.” The production on the original recordings of “Heaven” and “Nothing”—both big 1990s hits in the Philippines—were minimal and intimate. For the 2020 versions, Rick expanded the ballads’ arrangements for a much fuller sound, while making sure that they retain their original sensibilities. “The most important thing was to avoid recreating the original recordings. They have been there for so long and can never be recreated. Thus, I decided to make different arrangements for both songs, a full band, strings and background vocals to ensure they sounded fresh and new!” he pointed out. Rick also made sure to give Regine and Morissette the freedom to put their own flair
Rick Price and Morissette Amon
Regine Velasquez
to their parts. “He gave me creative freedom in terms of how I will interpret the song. But he also suggested some cool ideas on how I will be able to give new life to the material,” Regine related. “While working on this song, Rick and I kinda agreed that we didn’t want to make the verses predictable, while keeping the chorus singable and heartfelt. He allowed me to put my own flavor on the melodies,” Morissette pointed out. By turning “Heaven” and “Nothing” into duets, the songs can now be heard from a female perspective, too. “I really enjoy duets… I believe the message in both songs transcends gender. Love applies to the heart and soul so it makes no difference if you’re male or female. Love is love is love,” Rick stressed. Meanwhile, like almost all music artists today, Rick has had to forgo doing live shows and is now cooped up at home because of the ongoing COVID19 pandemic.
Inquirer.net photos
“I think the most challenging thing for musicians right now is that all live performances have been put on hold indefinitely,” Rick surmised. “And that could mean a great loss of income across the board.” The 58-year-old producer and multi-instrumentalist, who’s based in Nashville, Tennessee, for the past 10 years now, is also “alarmed and concerned for humanity” as a whole. “I stay in my home and only leave to get food and essentials. We must all do our part in social distancing to keep the virus from spreading any further. I’m trying to use the time to be as present and aware as possible and to reach out to my loved ones and be mindful of the important things in life,” related Rick, who’s using the downtime to get work done in his studio every day. “I’m so grateful to have music in my life,” he said. And to everyone trying to cope with the pandemic, Rick has this message: “My heart goes out to you … Be safe, be well, be kind to yourself and others.”
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Danica Sotto backs up brother Vico amid NBI move by
ratziel san Juan Philstar.com
ACTRESS-turned-entrepreneur Danica Sotto-Pingris showed some sibling solidarity with her younger half-brother Vico Sotto, who is being summoned by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) over an alleged violation of the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act. “Alam natin lahat na ito yung panahon na dapat mas lalo tayong magtulungang mga Pilipino. PLEASE! Isipin nalang natin kung paano natin malalagpasan ang mga pagsubok natin ngayon,” Danicah pleaded. “Gaya nga ng sabi ni Mayor [Vico] (Like Mayo Vico said), ‘Let’s just work.’” The daughter of Vic Sotto and Dina Bonnevie clarified that collective survival matters more in this situation than individual agendas. “This post is not meant to encourage more people to rant and say words to offend each other... Yes, we may have our own opinions but right now what’s important is we all get
Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli in “Pantawid ng Pag-ibig” online benefit concert.
Vic Sotto with wife Pauline and his children Oyo Boy, Danica, Vico and Paulina with half-siblings Danica Photo from Instagram/@paulinavls
by
Christina alpad ManilaTImes.net
ACTRESS Iza Calzado who tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on Saturday has recovered and has been allowed to go home, according to her manager Noel Ferrer. Ferrer posted the good news on his Instagram account @ iamnoelferrer. “It’s an amazing start of the week as we were just told that Iza can go home tomorrow after completing her IV antibiotics! Moreover, the good news is — Iza’s retest results came back and she is now negative for COVID.” He thanked everyone who included the 37-year-old actress in their prayers as well as the medical workers who helped Calzado battle the dreaded disease. “Let us continue to pray as Iza continues to heal and support others who are battling with the virus. Indeed, we pray and heal as one,” Ferrer said. Calzado first went public with her health status on March 25, when she revealed via Instagram
Angelica talks to Jared Leto via Instagram live by iza iglesias ManilaTImes.net
ABS-CBN actress Angelica Panganiban surprised netizens when she uploaded part of her live chat with Hollywood actor Jared Leto on Wednesday, March 25. It was Leto — best known for his portrayal as the Joker in 2016 film “Suicide Squad”— who went on Instagram live to talk his followers from all over the world in the hopes of comforting them amid the global coronavirus pandemic. The 48-year-old actor is in the U.S. where lockdowns have also been declared across several states. “I hope everybody out there is safe and sound wherever you are. We miss you guys. We are in lockdown and I am practicing social distancing over here. I hope you guys are too and best protect the people that you love,” Leto said. “So I wanted to come and talk to you guys today and see how you are. It’s been a while since I(‘ve) spoken to people. As you know I came from a retreat and came back into this madness which was (a) pretty unique experience. I will go live with some people and see how you are,” he added. Out of sheer luck, Panganiban — who had clicked on Leto’s live chat — was among the followers the American actor picked to talk to and their conversation went on for some three minutes. “How is everything there? Have you been guys quarantined? Are you at home now?,” Leto asked. “Yes, we are in self quarantine because we traveled from Dubai. We shot a film in Dubai,” Panganiban replied. Leto then asked if she was an actress and asked for her name. Panganiban said yes and after giving her name, Leto replied, “I’m Jared. Well I’m glad to hear you(‘re) safe and sound and at home, and I hope everything’s okay from you guys back there. And I think with warm weather it’s good for
Online concert with Sarah, Matteo’s first duet to benefit about 200K families in quarantine
SOME 200,000 families all through this together,” Danica Kaya natin ito dahil din nandiyan enthused. si Lord. Isipin nalang paano over Metro Manila will soon “Let’s continue to pray for natin matutulungan ang bawat receive food and basic necessities after ABS-CBN turns our country and all our leaders. isa.” over the first P100 million worth of food and products purchased using donations to the network’s “Pantawid ng Pag-ibig” campaign to 16 local government units (LGU) this weekend. The goods will be repacked and delivered by the local government units (LGUs) to homes of Filipinos who are unable to make a living while the nation’s capital is under enhanced community quarantine. The P100 million is part of the P285.3 million raised by ABS-CBN as of March 26, in cash donations and pledges, to help people who have lost their sources of income or livelihood due to the quarantine implemented by the government to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The Kapamilya network expresses its gratitude to all donors from all over the world, as well as the private corporations that ensured stocks of their products for “Pantawid ng Pag-ibig.” These items include rice, canned goods, noodles, biscuits, milk, coffee, shampoo, soap, detergent, and vitamins. Iza Calzado Photo from Instagram/@missizacalzado Also playing a key role in account that she was hospital- celebrity to test positive and this multi-sectoral initiative are ized for pneumonia and awaiting recover from COVID-19 followtest results for COVID-19. ing veteran actor Christopher She was the second showbiz de Leon.
Iza recovers from COVID-19
Both on quarantine as many others are in the world today, Angelica Panganiban got lucky when Jared Leto, reaching out via video call to check on his fans, chose the Filipina actress for a three-minute chat. Photo from Instagram/@iamangelicap
everyone with places like the Philippines soon, we hope. But it’s nice to see you, you have an interesting voice. Your accent is hard to place.” Clearly thrilled to be face to face with Leto, albeit on video call, Panganiban gushed, “It’s amazing to talk to you. It’s so surreal.” Leto replied, “It’s surreal to talk to you too. It’s a pretty wild world.” Also the lead vocalist, multiinstrumentalist and main songwriter for the rock band Thirty Seconds to Mars, Leto then said he missed playing in the Philippines. “Anyway, tell everybody in the Philippines we love them and we miss them. It’s been a long time since we played a concert there but we love your country and we love to come back. We hope that everybody stays at home. Be good and protect yourselves and be safe.” “Yes. You too, stay inside and be safe,” Panganiban added. “So grateful to talk to people from all over the world. It’s really good to see everybody and chat,” Leto said afterwards.
Panganiban’s friend, actor Thou Reyes who is also among the cast who shot in Dubai and on self-quarantine, was able to screen shot part of the conversation between Panganiban and Leto. Uploading it on his Instagram Story, he wrote, “Madam, dinaan mo sa tulala eh! Kala ko kaya mo panindigan yung level level lang… bumigay ka sa dulo eh.” Panganiban was quick to reply, “4 a.m. levels. Jared Leto yan eh! Parang nagandahan pa nga sa akin! Charot!” It can be recalled that it was Leto’s performance as a transgender woman in “Dallas Buyers Club” in 2013 that cemented his status as top Hollywood actor, winning him an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award and a Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Supporting Actor. Considered a method actor, he is known for his constant devotion to and research of his roles. He often remains completely in character for the duration of film shoots, even to the extent of adversely affecting his health. He is also known to be very selective in accepting roles. Leto’s filmography includes supporting roles in “The Thin Red Line” (1998), “Fight Club” (1999) and “American Psycho” (2000), as well as lead roles in “Urban Legend” (1998) and “Requiem for a Dream” (2000) where he earned critical acclaim for his portrayal of heroin addict Harry Goldfarb. For a time, he chose to focus on his music career, returning to acting with “Panic Room” (2002), “Alexander” (2004), “Lord of War” (2005), “Lonely Hearts” (2006), “Chapter 27” (2007), and “Mr. Nobody” (2009). In 2012, he directed the documentary film “Artifact,” and appeared most recently in Hollywood box office hits “Suicide Squad” (2016) and “Blade Runner 2049” (2017). Meanwhile, Panganiban, also a noted Filipina actress, was in Dubai shooting key scenes for the upcoming Star Cinema romantic-comedy film “Love or Money.”
Photo from Instagram/@matteog
the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and logistics companies Air 21 and Entrego, which deliver the items from ABS-CBN warehouses to the different LGUs. Millions of donations poured in during ABS-CBN’s “Pantawid ng Pag-ibig: At-Home Together Concert” last March 22 where over 100 Kapamilya artists performed from their own homes, shared words of support and encouragement for our frontliners, and urged the public to help our less-fortunate Kapamilyas. The digital fundraising concert was streamed on iWant and other ABS-CBN platforms online and aired live on ABS-CBN, S+A, ANC, MYX, DZMM TeleRadyo, DZMM Radyo Patrol 630, MOR 101.9, and on The Filipino Channel (TFC) for those abroad. The six-hour “Pantawid ng Pag-ibig: At-Home Together Concert” recorded 3.7 million views during its livestreaming across the network’s digital platforms. Apart from the performances, the stars also offered prayers and messages of support, gave out tips on what do to at home during the quarantine, and reminded viewers to stay in and protect themselves through proper hygiene and home disinfection practices. It showcased
an all-star lineup that included Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo, Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Sarah Geronimo, Kathryn Bernardo, Daniel Padilla, Nadine Lustre, Enrique Gil, Liza Soberano, Lea Salonga, Bamboo, apl. de.ap, Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Regine Velasquez, Ogie Alcasid, Sharon Cuneta, Jodi Sta. Maria, Paulo Avelino, Julia Montes, Kim Chiu, Jericho Rosales, Maja Salvador, Piolo Pascual, Coco Martin, and Angel Locsin. Even with the community quarantine in place, it did not deter the network from finding ways to offer joy and encouragement to Filipinos and using modern digital technology to gather more than 100 stars performing from their own homes. The concert also garnered 64,000 social media mentions and its official hashtag #PantawidNgPagibig claimed the top spot on Twitter in the Philippines as netizens posted about their favorite stars, the moving performances, and donating to the cause. ABS-CBN continues to call on the public and the private sector for donations as it aims to also reach localities outside Metro Manila, where more Filipinos are in need of help. (Philstar.com)
B APRIL 4-7, 2020 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
Tapat Sa Batas Atty. RheA SAmSon SIMULA Marso 18, 2020, ang USCIS ay nagsuspende ng mga routine in-person service sa mga USCIS field office, asylum office at Application Support Center para pabagalin ang pagkalat ng COVID-19. Ang pagsuspende ng operasyon hanggang Abril 1, 2020 ay extended hanggang Abril 6, 2020. Ayon sa USCIS, ang kanilang opisina ay magbubukas sa Abril 7, 2020 maliban kung kinakailangan ulit ng extension para sa public safety. Subalit ang mga empleyado ng USCIS ay patuloy pa rin sa pagtrabaho para sa essential services na hindi kailangan ng face-toface contact kasama ng publiko. Ipinahayag din ng USCIS noong Marso 27, 2020 na ito ay handang tumulong sa mga petitioner at aplikante na nakatanggap at sumasagot sa mga Request for Evidence (RFE) at Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) na may petsa na Marso 1 hanggang Mayo 1, 2020. Para sa
EMPLOYMENT
Community Journal
USCIS offices’ temporary closure extended US Embassy Manila visa interviews temporarily ceased
mga petitioner at aplikante na nakatanggap ng RFE/NOID na may petsa na Marso 1 hanggang Mayo 1, 2020, ang mga Response to RFE/NOID na matatanggap ng USCIS ng 60 calendar days mula sa response deadline ay bibigyan ng konsiderasyon ng USCIS. Para sa mga nagpapa-schedule ng kanilang immigrant at nonimmigrant visa interview sa US Embassy in Manila, nagsabi na ang US Embassy Manila sa mga liham sa visa applicants na sila ay pansamantalang tumigil ng lahat ng immigrant at nonimmigrant visa appointment dahil sa enhanced community quarantine sa Manila upang mabawasan ang pagkalat ng COVID-19. Ang US Embassy Manila ay magpapatuloy ng routine visa services kapag ang enhanced community quarantine sa Manila ay lifted na. Lahat tayo ay hinihikayat na manatili sa ating mga tahanan at magtrabaho sa ating tahanan, kung maaari upang mabawasan
at matigil ang pagkalat ng COVID-19. Patuloy tayong magdasal at manalangin na malalampasan natin ito. Naway ang Diyos, sa kanyang awa, ay protektahan tayo at panatilihin tayong ligtas. *** Effective March 18, 2020, USCIS has suspended routine in-person services at its field offices, asylum offices and Application Support Centers to help slow the spread of COVID-19. The suspension which was initially until April 1, 2020 is extended to April 6, 2020. USCIS offices will open on April 7, 2020 unless further extension is warranted due to public safety and health concerns. However, employees at USCIS are still continuing to perform essential services that do not require face-to-face contact with the public. USCIS also announced on March 27, 2020 that it is adopting a measure to assist petitioners and applicants who are
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EMPLOYMENT
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Debt Relief
Atty. LAwRence yAng THE U.S. Trustee has recently instructed bankruptcy trustees to conduct debtor hearings telephonically to comply with social distancing guidelines to fight the coronavirus. The Chapter 13 trustee in Riverside, California has just informed counsel about how that will be implemented in his jurisdiction. Appearances will be done telephonically and/or with video for hearings starting mid-April. Debtors will have to go to their lawyer’s office to sign in and appear for their hearing. Lawyers will then check in with the trustee. Identification cards, such as driver’s licenses and social security cards, will have to be uploaded to the trustee at least a week ahead of the hearing along with other documents that the trustee asks for. Other documents that are normally mailed in at least a week before the hearing, even in normal times, include paystubs, proof of income or an income and expense schedule for a debtor
Bankruptcy trustees move toward telephonic appearances by debtors who is a business owner and pertinent tax returns, the last filed one. Watch out for your 2019 tax refunds Trustees are on the lookout for tax refunds even though tax filing has been delayed to July 2020 because of the pandemic. Debtors will still be asked if they expect a tax refund and how much? So debtors must be aware of this and try to exempt the tax refund amount in schedule C, the schedule of exemptions. So, if you expect a tax refund of $10,000 for 2019, even if you have not yet filed your tax returns, it is wise to exempt the $10,000 in schedule C using the wild card. After all, the expected $10,000 refund is a receivable of the debtor and thus is part of the bankruptcy estate administered by the trustee if it is not exempt. If there is no exemption claimed by the debtor, the trustee will ask the debtor to hand over the $10,000 refund to the trustee, if and when it arrives. Failure to surrender the $10,000 to the trustee will result in a motion or adversary for the turnover of the
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FOR RENT
money to the trustee at the appropriate time. How does this work? The client is 50 years old. He does not own a house and he will file Chapter 7 to discharge $40,000 of credit cards. He just got laid off because of the pandemic and has filed his application for unemployment benefits. Although he has not yet filed his 2019 tax returns, he fully expects to get a tax refund of $15,000 in due time. Debtor certainly needs the $15,000 now more than ever before because of lost employment. He has bills to pay, and a family to support. He has to pay rent and buy groceries. He has to make the car payment on time. If he can’t pay the rent, he and his family get evicted and he just might find himself and his family homeless during these trying times. Heaven forbid that this happens to anyone but this scenario is now becoming a distinct possibility for many families. If he can’t make his car payment on time, the repo guy will strike at any time and most certainly, he will lose his car. Nobody wants to use public transportation
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Community Journal
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 4-7, 2020
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Recovering insurance payments for coronavirus losses Permanent residence based on same-sex marriage THESE are challenging times for California small businesses. Restaurants, retail stores, and other services sustained (and continue to sustain) coronavirus-related losses. Their damages resulted from severe business interruption, event cancellation, loss of supply chains, and loss of customers among other damages. However, business owners may seek to obtain payments for losses if their business insurance policies provide coverage for these losses. Below are guidelines for business owners on how to navigate these potential insurance claims. What is business interruption insurance? Businesses are generally insured under a General Commercial Liability insurance. Business interruption insurance, also known as business income coverage, is an optional coverage that a business owner may purchase as part of a comprehensive commercial insurance policy. Business interruption insurance coverage generally lists the types of loss it covers. Generally, business interruption coverage may apply only if the business suffered a direct physical property loss that leads to the business interruption (e.g., a fire that damaged the property causing the business to shut down). What are the losses that may be covered by business interruption insurance? Losses associated with CO-
Minding Your Finances Atty. rAymonD BUlAon A LOT of people in debt often already know what they need to do once they realize that bankruptcy is their only way out. But they usually delay the decision to file because they try their best to avoid it if at all possible and will only rush to act when they face an immediate threat from creditors, such as a lawsuit or wage garnishment. However, sometimes the decision to delay can hurt you. Let me explain. If you wait too long and continue to use all your financial re-
Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights Atty. C. Joe SAyAS, Jr. VID-19, and which may possibly be covered, include: • Business interruption costs • Supply chain disruptions •Lost revenue or income • Closure related costs • Blocked access to a plant or facility • Event cancellation • Costs related to COVID-19 lawsuits (including defense costs and third-party liabilities) • Losses related to customers unable to purchase goods or service How can I find out if my policy has business interruption insurance coverage? Whether a comprehensive commercial insurance policy includes business interruption insurance will depend on the specific policy. Businesses with commercial insurance need to get the complete and current copies of their policies and immediately review the coverage provisions. Will my insurance cover loss of income due to COVID-19? A business interruption insurance policy generally covers loss of business income. However, business interruption insurance coverage is generally triggered only if there is direct physical
loss or damage to a property caused by a covered peril (i.e. fire, water damage, etc.). Most commercial policies exclude loss due to contamination by virus, bacteria, or other microorganisms. A careful review of technical provisions of the policy is necessary to determine what may be covered and what is excluded. How do I know if COVID-19 is not covered in my policy? Many commercial policies have exclusions for loss due to contamination by virus, bacteria, and other microorganism and similar perils. However, some policies may be silent (i.e., does not expressly exclude) losses from viral/bacterial contamination that results in an epidemic or pandemic. If the policy is silent on the exclusion of these types of perils, then an argument for coverage due to these losses may be made. COVID-19 is highly contagious and a common method of contagion is touching infected surfaces. Hence, it can be argued that a workplace infected with coronavirus is “physically damaged” for purposes of a claim. Creativity on counsel advocating for the insured or policyholder is imperative in this instance. The government has ordered a shelter-in-place and I have to close my business and send my employees home. Is this loss covered? Generally, losses that result from the actions of a civil au-
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Filing bankruptcy when you can’t pay your bills sources to temporarily keep you afloat, in the end you might be sorry that you did this. For example, I have seen a lot of people go through all their savings, retirement plans, kid’s college funds, etc. in the hopes that doing this will fix their financial situation. They often find out the hard way that it is not and ultimately end up filing bankruptcy anyway. Of course, no one has a crystal ball that can predict the future but unless you miraculously come up with the money you need when you’re already drowning in debt, chances are that things will just continue to get worse and this can put you at an extreme disad-
IN United States vs. Windsor, 570 U.S. (2013) (Docket No. 12307), the Supreme Court held that Federal restrictions of the terms “marriage” and “spouse” to marriages between a man and a woman were unconstitutional. The Court invalidated Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which did not allow Federal Government recognition of same-sex marriages under Federal laws, or for Federal programs. After the Court’s decision in the Windsor case, the USCIS has considered same-sex, marriage-based immigrant petitions in the same way as those involving marriage with the opposite sex. As a result, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident can now petition his/ her spouse or fiancé(e) to get a green card. As with marriages between persons of the opposite sex, a valid marriage between a samesex couple is required. The law of the place in which the marriage took place determines whether the marriage is valid for immigration purposes. The same-sex couple does not need to be residents of the state or foreign country in which the marriage took place. A civil union or domestic partnership cannot be the basis for a samesex, marriage-based immigrant petition; a relationship legally considered to be a marriage where it took place establishes eligibility. If the marriage occurred in a state or foreign country in
vantage, making financial recovery more difficult than it should be. When you are depleting assets while facing debt collections lawsuits, it may be difficult to cover even basic living expenses such as rent or mortgage, food, utilities, car payments, etc. Sure you may be avoiding bankruptcy temporarily, but all you’re doing is putting a band-aid on a big, gaping wound. This is especially true if your wages are being garnished and you have other creditors who are just waiting to do the same. If you completely use up all your assets so that you have zero
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Barrister’s Corner Atty. kenneth UrSUA reyeS THE COVID-19 Pandemic has changed our lives almost overnight. Not only has it changed our lives in terms of our daily routine, jobs, lifestyle, but also our relationship with our family members under the Stay at Home orders in place in major cities such as Los Angeles, Divorce caused by financial and emotional stress China is a few months ahead of the US in terms of the impact of this pandemic on families. Statistics show that the number of couples filing for divorce in
Legal Advice Atty. DArriCk tAn which same-sex marriages are recognized, then the U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse can file an I-130 petition and adjustment of status application (if the non-US citizen/permanent resident spouse is in the U.S.) or immigrant visa application (if the non-U.S. citizen/permanent resident spouse is outside the U.S.). As with marriages between the opposite sex, the same-sex couple will need to demonstrate that the marriage is a real marriage and not merely for immigration purposes. But what if the marriage has yet to occur, and the non-U.S. citizen/permanent resident person in the relationship resides in a foreign country that does not recognize same-sex marriages, and cannot travel to the U.S.? In such a case, a U.S. citizen can file an I-129f petition for alien fiancé(e), which would allow his/ her foreign national fiancé(e) to travel to the U.S. under a K-1 visa to get married. The couple would have to get married in a state that recognizes same-sex marriages within 90 days of the foreign national’s arrival. After marriage, an I-130 petition and I-485 adjustment of status (changing status
from K-1 to permanent resident) would need to be filed. Filing an I-129f fiancé(e) petition is only available to a U.S. Citizen and not a permanent resident. For cases involving a permanent resident petitioner, the couple would need to find a foreign nation to which they can both travel and that recognizes same-sex marriages, and get married there. Thereafter, the permanent resident petitioner can file an I-130 petition on behalf of his/her spouse, who would undergo consular processing for an immigrant visa in the country of residency when available. Certain other requirements exist to obtain permanent residence. It is also worth noting that eligibility for other immigration benefits are now available to a same-sex spouse. It is therefore recommended that you seek the advice of an experienced attorney. *** Darrick V. Tan, Esq. is admitted to practice law in California and Nevada. Mr. Tan is a graduate of UCLA and Southwestern University School of Law. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), the Consumers Attorney Association of Los Angeles (CAALA), and is a former member of the Board of Governors of the Philippine American Bar Association (PABA). LAW OFFICES OF DARRICK V. TAN, 3580 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 900, Los Angeles, CA 90010. Tel: 323639-0277. Email: info@dtanlaw.com (Advertising Supplement)
Family law issues during the COVID-19 pandemic China is reportedly way up after long periods of COVID 19-related confinement. This gives us a glimpse of the months to come after the stay at home order has been lifted. The rapid spread of the corona virus has destabilized every household particularly those of parents. The closure of schools and child-care facilities has created challenges for scores of parents who must figure out how to keep their children safe while continuing to work from home. The current situation has posed significant challenge to parents with existing custody orders. Many parents are attempting to renegotiate the terms of the ex-
isting custody orders at a moment when emotions run high and the Courts are closed for most hearings. Most families have roles to play for each member of the household such as the parents getting up and going to work or the child being in school. When these roles are radically changed in a time that we’re all feeling incredibly stretched emotionally creates major stress on families. As a result of this stress, marriages may fracture and may result to divorce because the coronavirus crisis is causing many families to experience job loss from the massive layoffs caused by the
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About the Families First Coronavirus Response Act Recovering insurance payments for coronavirus... Part 1 of 2
PRESIDENT Trump signed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act on March 18 to bring much needed relief to employees and small to midsize businesses. Small and midsize employers can begin taking advantage of two new refundable payroll tax credits designed to immediately and fully reimburse them, dollarfor-dollar, for the cost of providing Coronavirus-related leave to their employees. According to a recent news release from the IRS, the Act combats COVID-19 by giving all American businesses with fewer than 500 employees funds to provide employees with paid leave, either for the employee’s own health needs or to care for family members. The legislation will enable employers to keep their workers on their payrolls, while at the same time ensuring that workers are not forced to choose between their paychecks and the public health measures needed to combat the virus.
The Prophetic Voice REVEREND RODEL G. BALAGTAS THIS Passion/Palm Sunday is the beginning of Holy Week. Sadly, we will not able to celebrate Holy Week in our churches because of the carnivorous pandemic. It’s a huge cross that we all need to carry. We can’t gather as communities of faith to get our palms blessed and celebrate the Triduum Masses (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday) because of our adherence to the “Safer At Home” and social distancing orders. What a depressing time for all Christian Churches! This is a period that will go down in history. Despite these tragic times, many of our churches and congregations are finding ways to celebrate Holy Week and Easter through live-streaming of masses and services and Zoom meetings. No virus will ever stop us from celebrating our Christian
Tax & Stock Tips VICTOR SY,
CPA, MBA (RETIRED)
Paid Leave The Act provides that employees of eligible employers can receive two weeks (up to 80 hours) of paid sick leave at 100% of the employee’s pay where the employee is unable to work because the employee is quarantined, and/or experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, and seeking a medical diagnosis. An employee who is unable to work because of a need to care for an individual subject to quarantine, to care for a child whose school is closed or child care provider is unavailable for reasons related to COVID-19, and/or the employee is experiencing substantially similar con-
ditions as specified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services can receive two weeks (up to 80 hours) of paid sick leave at 2/3 the employee’s pay. An employee who is unable to work due to a need to care for a child whose school is closed, or childcare provider is unavailable for reasons related to COVID-19, may in some instances receive up to an additional 10 weeks of expanded paid family and medical leave at 2/3 the employee’s pay. *** Victor Santos Sy graduated Cum Laude from UE with a BBA and from Indiana State University with an MBA. Vic worked with SyCip, Gorres, Velayo (SGV - Andersen Consulting) and Ernst & Young before establishing Sy Accountancy Corporation. *** He retired after 50 years of defending taxpayers audited by the IRS, EDD, BOE and other governmental agencies. He published a book on “How to Avoid or Survive IRS Audits.” Readers may email tax questions to vicsy@live.com.
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thority are covered only if there is physical damage to the insured premises caused by a covered peril. Again, the policy provisions, particularly regarding Civil Authority coverage, is determinative. For instance, coverage may be found to cover loss of business income or the incurring of expenses when access to the insured premises is specifically prohibited by order of civil authority as the direct result of a covered peril. If my employee is infected with
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at the time of filing bankruptcy, you may find it more difficult to regain your financial footing and start your new life after bankruptcy. Most retirement plans are also exempt in bankruptcy and had you not used all your retirement money to pay debts before filing, you would have been able to protect what little you have and still have some type of savings after bankruptcy. I have clients whose debt payments are more than 30-40% of their monthly income and they wonder why they’re broke every patients—doctors, nurses, nurs- payday. Keep in mind that if you ing aides, medical technicians, are in that situation, you are only respiratory therapists, janitors, living on 60-70% of your actual and other caregivers. We also re- income level and that is why you member the grocery workers, the feel that there is never enough truck drivers, the garbage collectors, and all those who do essential works for us. We remember too our national and local government leaders and those in the PAGE B6 t media who are working hard to nowadays. NY is ground zero in help people and disseminate the this pandemic because New right information promptly about Yorkers use their subways a lot, and they mostly live in buildings, this pandemic. The current news says that the condominiums and apartments. next two weeks are critical for This is one major reason why the us in the U.S. as this period will virus spread so quickly in NY. Southern CA’s built-in social be the peak of the spread of the coronavirus. Let’s follow the urg- distancing In LA, we have built-in social ings of our government strictly to stay home and observe distanc- distancing because we don’t use our subways. Most of us don’t ing. Let’s keep on imploring God even know that we have subways. for His mercy and protection. What we use in LA are cars. We love our cars and we love our Lord, heal the world! single-family houses. So, we have Have a prayerful Holy Week! built-in social distancing in place. *** Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor We don’t get packed like sardines of Incarnation Church in Glendale, in subways. We self-isolate in our cars in our long and trafficCalifornia. congested commute every day. We just give each other the finger to express road rage, but we member of the State Bar of California for don’t give each other the virus. over 15 years and the Integrated Bar of We self isolate ourselves in our the Philippines for over 20 years. Atty. daily commute in our comfortSamson received her Legal Manage- able air-conditioned cocoon on ment degree from the Ateneo de Manila wheels. When we go home, we University and her Juris Doctor degree go home to a single-family house
responding to Requests for Evidence (RFE) and Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID) dated between March 1 and May 1, 2020. For petitioners and applicants who receive RFE/NOID between March 1 and May 1, 2020, responses filed within 60 calendar days after response deadline will be considered by USCIS. For those scheduling their immigrant and nonimmigrant visa interviews at the US Embassy in Manila, the said Embassy has stated in communications with visa applicants that they have ceased all immigrant and nonimmigrant visa appointments
and processing due to the Philippines’ enhanced community quarantine measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The US Embassy in Manila will resume routine visa services after the enhanced community quarantine is lifted in Manila. Everyone is encouraged to stay at home and to work from home, if possible to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Let us continue to pray and have faith that we will get through this. May God, in his mercy, protect us and keep us safe. *** ATTY. RHEA SAMSON is the principal of SAMSON LAW FIRM, P.C. She has been a
from the Ateneo Law School. She was a Professor for over 10 years, teaching Obligations and Contracts, Labor Laws and Social Legislation and Taxation Law. Atty Samson is the author of The Law on Obligations and Contracts (2016), Working with Labor Laws-Revised Edition (2014) and Working with Labor Laws (2005). SAMSON LAW FIRM, P.C., 3580 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 1710, Los Angeles, CA 90010; Phone: (213) 274-4561; Email: info@samsonlawfirmpc.com. (Advertising Supplement)
Family law issues during the COVID-19... PAGE B7 t
shutdown of the economy. Financial stress is always one of the big stressors that lead to divorce. Parents are trying to figure out how they can support an entire family. Effect of COVID-19 stay-athome-order on custody orders The stay at home order issued by both the City of Los Angeles and later the State of California has stirred a lot of confusion among divorced parents who share custody of their children. Stay at home orders have required California residents to remain at home, except if they need to go out for essential needs such as for groceries, medication or health care appointments. People can’t go into work unless they are in certain essential jobs. The stay-home orders restrict travel for unapproved purposes. As a result, divorced parents didn’t know if they were allowed to travel to bring their children back and forth to the other parent during visitation schedules. There is confusion about whether the stayat-home order trumped the custody order or whether the court order trumped the stay-at-home order. Custody and visitation orders are not affected by stay at home orders or other order restricting movement issued by a governmental entity that arises from the COVID-19 pandemic. The stay at home order does not change the existing parent-child custody orders that may be in place. Just the fear of pandemic is not enough to warrant keeping a child from seeing the other parent. If there is an actual threat of harm to the child, the Los Angeles Superior Court is available for ex parte emergency RFO to address these issues. However, parents should attempt to work together first to come up with some kind of temporary agreement that works for both the parents and for the kids that accommodates the problems caused by the pandemic and
modify temporarily the existing custody orders as a solution to the current environment. For example, if exercising the father’s alternate weekend visitation exposes the child to other members of the father’s new household, perhaps the parents can temporarily agree to a virtual visitations such as zoom video conferencing, face time, and other apps available that allows the father to see the child and interact the child without exposing the child to the risk of contagion. The Los Angeles Superior Court has been continuing most hearings except for emergency hearings. It would serve the parties best to co-parent and work out a temporary custody agreement which can be turned into a temporary court order. Domestic violence during stayat-home order Many domestic violence victims live with their abusers and are now being forced to isolate with their abusers. Victims may have also lost their source of income and are having a harder time connecting with their support systems such as the victim’s family. Leaving their situation is much more difficult during the pandemic. COVID-19 stay at home order in Los Angeles means victims might be stuck with their abusers. Victims might also be losing their job and income. For the most vulnerable people in the community, stay at home order is the same as putting them in a cage with a dangerous creature. Even though there may be an increase in domestic violence during this period, neither law enforcement nor the family courts may hear about the domestic violence and abuse because it is usually the community that reports these incidents when children go to school, when people see their friends, when people are in a situation where other people see what’s going on. Now, teachers, childcare providers and, friends are physically cut off from the people and children they normally
money to go around no matter how hard you work. What this means is that you are on “survival mode” and as long as you stay there, you’re never going to be able to plan for your financial future. And remember that if you “fail to plan, you plan to fail”. I am sure this is not what you want for yourself and your family, is it? If bankruptcy is your best solution, please don’t be too hard on yourself by looking at your filing as a sign of personal failure. Bankruptcy is not the end of your financial life. But rather, it can be a useful tool to be able to rebuild your finances, your credit and your life if you are no longer able to solve your debt problems on your own.
If you are in debt and don’t know what to do, let me help you understand your options. I will give you a free initial consultation so we can talk about your situation. Just call 866-477-7772 and schedule an appointment. I have offices in Glendale, Cerritos and Valencia. Due to the current lockdown order caused by COVID-19, I am offering free phone consultations. *** None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully helped thousands of clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call Ray Bulaon Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1 (866) 477-7772. (Advertising Supplement)
Bankruptcy trustees move toward telephonic...
USCIS offices’ temporary closure... PAGE B6 t
*** The Law Offices of C. Joe Sayas, Jr. welcomes inquiries about this topic. All inquiries are confidential and at no-cost. You can contact the office at (818) 2910088 or visit www.joesayaslaw.com. [C. Joe Sayas, Jr., Esq. is an experienced trial attorney who has successfully recovered wages and other monetary damages for thousands of employees and consumers. He was named Top Labor & Employment Attorney in California by the Daily Journal, consistently selected as Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine, and is a Presidential Awardee for Outstanding Filipino Overseas.] (Advertising Supplement)
Filing bankruptcy when you can’t pay...
An unprecedented Holy Week ahead faith! So, let’s start a prayerful Holy Week, asking God to intervene in our lives to end this COVID-19 pandemic. Let’s ask Jesus to enter our cities and towns to heal those who are suffering from this deadly virus and are in danger of death. We all struggle with the mystery of this pandemic. We can’t help but question God about it. What does it mean to us? Definitely, it is testing our faith and making us fearful of death. But does this pandemic making us repent and turn to God? Is it strengthening our faith and making us examine our priorities and relationships? It is preparing us for one’s potential death and allowing us to believe in God’s promise of New Life? Indeed, is it giving us the firm belief that no disease and death will ever have power over God’s Eternal love for each one of us? As we celebrate Holy Week, we remember the front-liners, those who take care of COVID-19
COVID-19 and has to be off work, is this loss covered by insurance? Per California Governor Gavin Newsom’s March 12 Executive Order: “if workers are unable to do their usual job because they were exposed to and contracted COVID-19 during the regular course of their work, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.” For example, health care workers may have become infected from caring for patients. They may be entitled to workers’ compensation coverage.
are in contact with daily. In addition, seeing businesses shuttered and paychecks halted has put intense pressure and hardship on a growing number of people and families who are becoming increasingly depressed. Many are self-medicating at home with drugs and alcohol. Add to that scenario the school closures and children and spouses sheltering together at home can create an extremely hostile, even dangerous, environment for many families. It is therefore important for victims to call the police or avail of the Family Courts by filing an application for a restraining order and a kick out order against the perpetrator. The Los Angeles Superior Court is available during this pandemic to issue such emergency orders to protect the victims of domestic violence. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com (Advertising Supplement)
detached and totally separate from our neighbors. We don’t go to an elevator to go to our condo or apartment. Fortunately, for us in Southern California, our cars and habit of using cars, and our detached single-family houses have given us a built-in self-isolation protection from the virus which NY does not have. Going back to the client — who anticipates a $15,000 tax refund for 2019 even though he has not yet filed his 2019 tax returns — he most definitely wants to keep the $15,000 refund in his pocket because he really needs it to survive this crisis now more than ever. I will declare in his schedule B of personal assets that he has $15,000 in tax refunds for 2019. That’s the first step. The second step is I will exempt the $15,000 tax refund in schedule C using the wild card. If your tax refund is only about $1,000, I still suggest you exempt the $1,000, although the danger of having the trustee take the
$1,000, is minimal. Why? Because it costs the trustee more than $1,000 to make any move to attempt to get the $1,000. The trustee has to file a motion to get the $1,000 from the debtor. This means he has to hire a lawyer to prepare, file the pleadings and appear in court to ask the judge to grant his motion to order the debtor to turn over the $1,000 to him. As you know, lawyers and legal fees cost a pretty penny. The trustees’ legal fees to get the $1,000 would definitely cost more than $1,000. So, it doesn’t make economic sense for the trustee to get the $1,000 from the debtor. *** Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in Bankruptcy, Business, Real Estate and Civil Litigation, and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 20274 Carrey Road, Walnut, CA 91789 or 1000 S. Fremont Ave., Mailstop 58, Building A-10 South Suite 10042, Alhambra, CA 91803. (Advertising Supplement)
People and Events
LACoFD launches new telemedicine program IN response to the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Los Angeles County Fire Department has launched a new Telemedicine Program. This allows firefighters and paramedics to assist mildly-ill patients by having an advanced provider (nurse practitioner or nurse) evaluate pa-
tients via video (with the option to use three-way video with an emergency physician, as needed), preventing unneeded trips to the emergency room. The program connects patients who do not require emergency care with a provider who can assess the patient’s condition, provide
a treatment plan, and even call in prescriptions to support the treatment plan. To date the program has diverted many patients who otherwise would have gone to an emergency department, keeping those beds available for those who really need them. ■
New public health guidelines allow restaurants to sell groceries via delivery, takeout, curbside pick-up
Supervisor Hahn directed these guidelines be issued after restaurants-turned-markets were shut down by the Public Health Department Photo courtesy of the Office of LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn/Fourth District
THE Los Angeles County Department of Public Health this week released new guidelines allowing restaurants in the county to sell groceries as part of their delivery, take-out, and curbside delivery services. Supervisor Janice Hahn and the Board of Supervisors directed the Department of Public Health to issue these guidelines after several restaurants that had reinvented themselves as markets during the COVID-19 crisis had been shut down for operating without a grocery license. “These new guidelines allow restaurants to sell grocery items and unprepared food through takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup,” said Hahn. “I hope this helps our local restaurants stay in business, keep their employees and customers safe, and continue
to feed their communities during this crisis.” Under these new guidelines, restaurants may add grocery items such as unprepared food to their menus for purchase. Restaurants in LA County continue to be prohibited from offering dine-in services under the Safer At Home Public Health Order. All business must be done through delivery, take-out, or curbside pickup. They include: Restaurants offering grocery type products (e.g. raw ingredients, products, etc.) for retail sale may only include them on their menu for delivery or take-out. They are not allowed to set-up a grocery store in their dining room for customer self-selection as this defeats the purpose of closing dining rooms to customers and is
outside of their existing permit. Public Health will not enforce labeling of packaged products that are packaged for convenience purposes, provided they are able to provide ingredients to customers upon request. Restaurants are strictly prohibited from engaging in high-risk packaging: Reduced-oxygen packaging that has not been approved by CDPH. Bottles of sanitizer solution being sold without any of the required EPA labeling. If a restaurant is using a portion of their dining room as backup storage for non-food items, they must prohibit customer selfselection of these items. These products are to be provided as part of the delivery or take-out purchase. ■
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Community Journal
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 4-7, 2020
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B10 APRIL 4-7, 2020 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
PeoPle & events
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