041026 - San Diego Edition

U.S. moves to automatic Selective Service registration

Government will automatically register eligible men, replacing self-signup requirement

WASHINGTON — The United States is moving to an automatic registration system for Selective Service, marking the most consequential administrative change to the process since the modern system resumed in 1980. The change is part of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, signed into law on December 18, 2025. It transfers responsibility for registration from individuals to the Selective Service System (SSS) through the use of existing federal data. Selective Service registration is not military service. It is a legal requirement for eligible men to provide basic information to the government for use only if a draft is authorized.

Implementation and scope

On March 30, 2026, the SSS submitted its

A generational shift in the pews: Gen Z men reengage with the Church

Survey data indicate a narrowing gender gap in religious participation as younger men report renewed engagement with Catholic practice, even as overall affiliation continues to decline.

MANILA / WASHINGTON — Survey data from the Pew Research Center and the Cooperative Election Study indicate a measurable shift in religious participation among younger men, particularly within Catholic contexts. While overall religious affiliation in the United States continues to decline, driven in part by the sustained rise of those identifying as religiously unaffiliated, recent datasets show that men under 30 report weekly attendance at rates broadly comparable to women in the same age group. Historically, women

Philippine debt reaches P18.16 trillion as domestic borrowing drives growth

Shift

by AJPress

Hormuz disruptions snarl Philippine-linked cargo as Iran assures passage for PH ships

Manila moves to secure fuel supply and protect Filipino seafarers as shipping through a critical oil corridor re

mains heavily restricted despite a fragile ceasefire.

by AJPress

Philippines — Philippine author-

remains under strain in the Strait of Hormuz, even after Iran conveyed assurances that Philippine-flagged vessels, energy shipments, and Filipino seafarers would be allowed safe passage.

and

Hospice fraud cases enter court phase after Southern

California

arrests

Federal prosecutors outline allegations of improper Medicare billing as enforcement action shifts from arrests to litigation

by AJPress

LOS ANGELES — One week after federal authorities announced arrests in a sweeping Southern California health care fraud enforcement action, prosecutors are moving forward with hospice-related cases in federal court. The U.S. Department of Justice has charged multiple defendants in connection with hospice-related billing schemes in the Central District of California, alleging

that providers sought reimbursement for end-of-life care for patients who were not terminally ill. Across the broader enforcement action, authorities have cited more than $50 million in intended losses. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Allegations center on hospice eligibility and billing practices At the core of the cases are allegations that hospice providers

Ombudsman to file plunder cases against Romualdez, Escudero in May

The Ombudsman is ready to file plunder cases against Rep. Martin Romualdez and Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero.

by Gideon Tinsay Philstar.com

OMBUDSMAN Jesus Crispin Remulla disclosed his plan of action in a press conference on Monday, Apr. 6.  Plunder ang aming inihahandang kasong para sa kanila... with the element of conspiracy involved in the preparation of the complaint,” he said.

Remulla added that his office is only tying up evidence before finally making the complaint within the month of May. He also confirmed that the cases are in relation to the ongoing flood control scandal. He added that the two lawmakers are among several individuals his office will charge with plunder and malversation.

NPA conducting foreign linked recruitment, Philippine military says by

AJPress

from a vacated encampment following a recent engagement. Officials say the entries are dated March 2026 and written in English. The materials have not been independently authenticated, and their authorship remains under investigation.

Military assessment, limits of verification Col. Michael Aquino, spokesperson for the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry Division, said the tone and fluency of the writings suggest familiarity with urban or international environments. He described the materials as indicative of what the military characterized as an “international dimension” in recruitment, though no independent verification or broader dataset was presented.

Atong Ang narrowly eludes arrest

Authorities say suspect missed by hours as manhunt intensifies

by AJPress

MANILA — Philippine authorities narrowly missed apprehending Charlie ‘Atong’ Ang during a pre-dawn operation on April 9, according to Jonvic Remulla, who said law enforcement acted on a confirmed “eyeball sighting” but arrived too late.

The operation, conducted at approximately 5:00 a.m. at an undisclosed location, was based on intelligence indicating the presence of Ang, who is currently facing multiple criminal charges. Officials said the target had vacated the site roughly a day before authorities moved in.

“We conducted operations because there was an eyeball sighting of him, but we were a day too late,” Remulla said in a televised interview.

Ang is the subject of standing warrants issued by regional trial courts in Batangas and Laguna. According to authorities, the charges include kidnapping and serious illegal detention, as well as kidnapping with homicide—allegations tied to the unresolved disappearance of dozens of cockfighting participants, locally known as sabungeros, in 2021. Charges and ongoing inves-

tigation

The case remains one of the most complex criminal investigations in recent Philippine history. Law enforcement agencies allege that the disappearances may be linked to disputes within the country’s cockfighting and betting operations. Authorities have not publicly disclosed all evidentiary details, and the allegations remain subject to judicial proceedings.

Government officials have placed a P20-million reward for information leading to Ang’s arrest, underscoring the high priority assigned to the case.

Security concerns and police probe

Remulla described Ang as a high-risk fugitive, citing financial resources and alleged connections that may enable him to evade capture. Authorities have deployed specialized units to pursue the case.

Separately, investigators are examining potential links between Ang and several former police officials. The inquiry is ongoing, and no final determinations of liability have been announced.

Philippine debt reaches P18.16...

PAGE 1

manage exposure to global market volatility and foreign exchange risks.

Domestic borrowing anchors

debt mix

Domestic debt climbed to P12.48 trillion, up 1.3 percent month on month, accounting for 68.7 percent of total outstanding obligations. Treasury data show the increase was driven by new issuances of government securities used to support public spending and development programs.

The heavier reliance on peso-denominated instruments aligns with the government’s medium-term strategy to stabilize debt servicing costs and reduce sensitivity to external rate move

ments.

External debt eased by valua

tion effects

External debt declined to P5.68 trillion, down 2.2 percent, largely due to favorable foreign exchange movements that reduced the peso value of foreign-denom-

inated obligations. Treasury data indicate these valuation gains offset new external borrowings during the period.

The month-on-month decline reflects currency effects rather than structural reductions in foreign liabilities. Upward trend persists year on year

Despite the marginal monthly increase, the broader trajectory remains upward. Total debt has risen from P16.63 trillion in February 2025, representing roughly a 9 percent year-on-year increase.

The Bureau of the Treasury has maintained that the country’s debt position remains “stable and well-managed,” citing continued access to both domestic and international financing, including recent activity in the global bond market.

Risks and contingent liabilities

Economists have pointed to external pressures that could

complicate fiscal consolidation, including geopolitical uncertainty and exchange rate volatility, with the peso at times weakening toward the P60-per-dollar level.

Treasury data also showed an increase in guaranteed obligations, including exposures tied to the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. (PSALM), adding to the government’s contingent liabilities.

Limited headroom ahead

With total debt nearing the P19 trillion threshold, fiscal space for the remainder of 2026 is increasingly constrained. The pace of government spending and the cost of servicing existing obligations are expected to remain central to the country’s credit outlook.

While authorities continue to emphasize a prudent debt profile, the current levels underscore the need to balance growth-oriented expenditures with fiscal discipline amid an uncertain global environment. n

Hormuz disruptions snarl Philippine...

At a Senate hearing on April 8, the Association of International Shipping Lines cited operational disruptions affecting roughly 130 Philippine container vessels, reflecting continued congestion and security-related constraints along the route. Industry testimony indicated that some cargo is being diverted to Gulf ports such as Khor Fakkan in the United Arab Emirates for overland delivery, while Europe-bound shipments are rerouted via the Cape of Good Hope, adding an estimated 10 to 14 days to transit times.

Diplomatic assurances

The Department of Foreign Affairs (Philippines) said Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro held a phone call on April 2 with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed

Abbas Araghchi, during which Tehran committed to the “safe, unhindered, and expeditious passage” of Philippine-flagged vessels and related cargo.

The DFA described the assurance as critical to the Philippines’ energy security, citing the country’s heavy reliance on imported oil and the need to safeguard uninterrupted deliveries of fuel and fertilizer. The commitment also covers Filipino seafarers, who comprise a substantial share of the global maritime workforce.

Traffic remains constrained

Despite the diplomatic opening, maritime traffic through Hormuz remains significantly below normal levels, with shipping activity still limited as operators factor in security risks, insurance costs, and uncertain access conditions.

The disruption follows heightened regional tensions since late February, which prompted widespread rerouting and precautionary slowdowns across Gulf shipping lanes. Domestic safeguards In Manila, economic managers are coordinating mitigation measures. The Department of Trade and Industry (Philippines) said suggested retail prices for 205 basic necessities and prime commodities will remain unchanged through April 30 to temper nearterm inflationary pressure.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the government will use the current ceasefire window to secure additional fuel supply, but cautioned that global market volatility may delay any immediate relief in domestic pump prices. n

Ombudsman to file plunder cases...

PAGE 1

“Maraming miyembro ng dalawang bahay ang maaaring tamaan din ng mga kasong plunder sa aming hinahanda ngayon,” he added.

He also confirmed that the plunder cases are based on an alleged conspiracy involved in the national budget, particularly in 2024 and 2025 or as far as the time of former Rep. Lord Allan Velasco, who was the House Speaker from 2020 to 2022.

Romualdez reacts Romualdez’s legal counsel, Atty. Ade Fajardo, stated that they are aware of the recent developments.

“To be clear, this refers only to a reported preparation of a complaint. There is no filed case, no finding of probable cause, and no

determination of liability at this time,” Fajardo said.

“We respect the processes of the Office of the Ombudsman and will fully cooperate if and when a formal proceeding is initiated … We want to emphasize that, todate, there is no evidence linking Rep. Romualdez to any ghost and substandard projects pertaining to the flood control issue,” he added.

As of writing, Escudero has yet to give his statement.

In September 2025, the Department of Justice released the list of individuals who will undergo “case build-up” in connection with the alleged corruption in the Department of Public Works and Highways’ flood control projects. Among those included in the list are former Ako Bicol party-list

Co, along with

and former

Both Romualdez and Escudero previously maintained their innocence. Months later, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure and Department of Public Works and Highways submitted a joint report to the Office the Ombudsman recommending several charges against Romualdez and Co for their alleged involvement in the flood control mess.  The ICI in December 2025 recommended plunder and corruption charges against Escudero, Revilla, and other officials reportedly involved in the flood control scandal. n

NPA conducting foreign-linked recruitment...

ities reads: “In the countryside, you aren’t nearly bossed down ideologically… The objective is right there: To triumph over the enemy.” Officials did not disclose the full context of the entry.

Security analysts note that insurgent groups such as the NPA have historically drawn from varied backgrounds. Claims of foreign-linked recruitment remain difficult to substantiate without corroborating evidence.

Individuals cited, attribution unresolved

Military officials have linked the recovered materials to Cristina Pasion, identified by authorities as a Filipino-American

believed to be with NPA units in Mindoro. That identification has not been confirmed through publicly disclosed forensic analysis, and no direct statement from Pasion has been made available.

Officials also cited travel records indicating that an individual with the same name did not board a scheduled return flight to the United States. Authorities further reported that she had previously been seen with Chantal Anicoche, another Filipino-American who was recovered by government forces following a separate encounter and later repatriated.

In a public appeal, Aquino called on NPA leadership to allow Pasion to leave, citing writings that, according to the military,

may reflect distress. The authenticity and attribution of those passages have not been independently verified.

Operational context

The encounter resulted in the death of Philippine Army Capt. Dean Buen Oyando and injuries to two soldiers, according to official reports. A suspected insurgent identified by authorities as Charlize Garzon was taken into custody and is facing criminal charges. The case remains pending, and no court determination has been made.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines has said the NPA’s strength has declined in recent years, though localized units remain active in parts of Mindoro. n

U.S. moves to automatic Selective Service...

PAGE 1

proposed rule for federal review. The agency expects full implementation by December 2026.

Under current law, men ages 18 to 25 are required to register. Under the new system, eligible men will be enrolled automatically using federal data sources, reducing cases of unintentional non-registration. The agency

reported an 18-year-old registration rate of about 42% in 2024. No draft, no expansion of scope

The policy does not reinstate a military draft. The United States remains an all-volunteer force, and any move toward conscription would require separate approval from Congress and the President.

Registration requirements continue to apply only to men. Officials also state that data use will comply with federal privacy laws, including the Privacy Act.

Policy rationale

Supporters say the shift modernizes an outdated system and is intended to improve compliance through federal data integration. (AJPress)

Hospice fraud cases enter court phase...

PAGE 1

bypassed Medicare eligibility requirements, which restrict coverage to patients certified as having a life expectancy of six months or less. Prosecutors allege that defendants enrolled ineligible beneficiaries and submitted claims for services that were not medically necessary. In some instances, court filings allege that beneficiaries were offered financial inducements to enroll—conduct that, if proven, could violate federal laws governing health care fraud and unlawful kickbacks.

Defendants named across separate filings

Federal prosecutors identified several defendants tied to hospice-related allegations, including Lolita Beronilla Minerd; Gladwin Gill and Amelou Gill; Nita Almuete Paddit Palma and Adolfo Cezar Catbagan; Evelyn Tindimobuna; and Ivan Verne Lauritzen.

The charges arise from separate complaints and indictments involving hospice operations in

Glendale, Tarzana, Anaheim, Artesia, and Simi Valley, rather than a single unified scheme.

Some defendants are of Filipino origin based on publicly available information; the allegations concern specific conduct and do not suggest broader community involvement.

Cases shift from arrests to proof

With arrests and charging decisions announced, the government’s burden now shifts to establishing that the defendants knowingly participated in false claims or other fraudulent hospice billing practices.

Such cases often turn on documentation - physician certifications, patient records, and billing data - as well as whether prosecutors can demonstrate intent.

Defense attorneys are expected to challenge both the factual basis of the allegations and the interpretation of medical eligibility standards.

Broader hospice oversight under scrutiny

Beyond individual cases, the prosecutions have renewed attention on structural vulnerabilities in the hospice system, particularly in regions with dense concentrations of providers.

Federal authorities have indicated that enforcement efforts will continue to focus on suspicious billing patterns and provider enrollment practices. Separate administrative actions, including billing-privilege reviews reported in related cases, have added to the scrutiny.

Federal cases enter pretrial stage

The cases remain in early stages, with arraignments and pretrial proceedings expected in the coming weeks in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.

The outcome will depend on whether prosecutors can substantiate allegations of improper billing and eligibility manipulation, issues central to the integrity of a Medicare benefit designed for patients at the end of life. n

A generational shift in the pews...

have reported higher levels of religious participation, making the current convergence notable.

Researchers emphasize that this pattern reflects relative stabilization among young men rather than a broad-based increase in overall religious adherence.

Motivations driving renewed engagement

Qualitative findings from parish communities and academic studies point to recurring themes among younger male participants.

Respondents frequently cite the appeal of structured belief systems, continuity with long-standing traditions, and clearly defined moral frameworks. Others point to the role of liturgy and ritual, including renewed visibility of more formal or traditional worship practices in some communities.

Social factors remain significant. Surveys on religious participation consistently identify community, family formation, and shared values as among the most commonly reported motivations

for attendance among young adults.

Regional resilience and the Asian context

Global Catholic participation trends vary by region. Data compiled by the Holy See Press Office and Vatican statistical reports indicate that parts of Southeast Asia continue to show relative stability in Catholic affiliation and priestly vocations.

In the Philippines, Catholic institutions remain a central social and cultural presence. In Vietnam, long-term data reflect sustained levels of priestly vocations relative to the Catholic population, pointing to institutional continuity rather than short-term fluctuation.

These regional patterns contrast with trends in many Western countries, where affiliation and participation have declined over time.

Political and cultural crosscurrents

Survey data also show a widening ideological divergence between young men and women in the United States, with men

trending more conservative and women more progressive across several social indicators.

Researchers caution against attributing religious participation solely to political alignment. Religious engagement reflects a combination of cultural, social, and personal factors that extend beyond partisan frameworks.

Scope and limits of the trend Available evidence does not indicate overall growth in religious affiliation. Long-term measuresincluding identification, membership, and sacramental participation in many countries - continue to face downward pressure.

Current data instead point to a shift in composition: a subset of young men appears to be maintaining or modestly increasing participation within a broader context of declining affiliation.

Whether this pattern represents a sustained demographic realignment or a temporary response to wider social conditions remains under study among academic researchers and religious institutions. (AJPress)

Atong Ang narrowly eludes arrest...

Location remains uncertain Despite earlier speculation that Ang may have left the country, the Bureau of Immigration said it has no official record of his departure. Authorities now

assess that he is likely still within Philippine territory. Officials said the manhunt has been intensified following the formation of a dedicated task force. Remulla said efforts to locate and arrest the suspect are

continuing, emphasizing that the objective is to bring the case before the courts.

Families of the missing sabungeros have continued to call for accountability as the investigation enters its fifth year. n

DAteline PhiliPPines

PH government, business groups push logistics fixes, oil sourcing as fuel volatility lifts inflation

by AJPress

MANILA — Executive Secre-

tary Ralph Recto met with leaders of the country’s major business chambers on Monday at Malacañang to coordinate a response to supply chain disruptions and fuel price volatility that have pushed inflation to 4.1 percent in March, near a two-year high. Participants included the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Makati Business Club; and Management Association of the Philippines, alongside petroleum industry representatives. Logistics bottlenecks

Recto directed agencies to remove unnecessary checkpoints delaying the transport of perishable goods, a move aimed at sta-

bilizing supply and limiting price pressures. Officials noted that diesel remains a dominant cost driver in domestic cargo movement. A proposal to establish off-site container yards has been referred to the Bureau of Customs to ease congestion at the Port of Manila.

The measure aligns with a policy by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority exempting vehicles carrying fuel and essential goods from truck bans.

Energy buffer, diversification Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said current oil inventories are sufficient for about 50 days, providing a buffer as global markets remain unstable.

The administration is pursuing supply diversification through “oil diplomacy,” including talks with nontraditional partners such as Russia, to reduce exposure to ex-

ternal shocks.

Recent volatility saw diesel prices rise from prior ranges below P74 per liter to triple-digit levels in some areas, with gasoline also climbing.

Private sector role

Recto emphasized continued coordination with industry, urging energy-saving measures and transparent pricing. Business groups, in turn, pushed for expanded digitization of trade documentation to reduce delays, citing administrative inefficiencies as a contributing factor to supply chain strain.

The consultations form part of the government’s response under a declared energy emergency, alongside targeted subsidies and operational adjustments to manage fuel consumption while maintaining economic activity. n

Malacañang denounces fabricated reports of President’s cancer diagnosis

by AJPress

MANILA — Malacañang on

April 5, 2026 warned against the circulation of fabricated information after a graphic falsely claiming that Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had been diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer spread widely on social media.

Palace officials described the material as a “blatant lie,” noting that the graphic improperly used the branding of GMA Integrated News, ABS-CBN News, and TV5.

As of posting, none of the organizations had published or broadcast such a report.

The Presidential Communications Office said the spread of falsified health information was “irresponsible and deceptive,” adding that it risks misleading the public and undermining confidence in institutions.

Medical disclosure and clarification

The false claim emerged in the wake of a legitimate health disclosure earlier this year. In late January 2026, the Presidential Communications Office confirmed that Marcos had been diagnosed with diverticulitis, a condition involving inflammation in the digestive tract.

On January 28, 2026, the President issued a video message stating he was in stable condition and undergoing treatment, including antibiotics. By February 11, 2026, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro publicly rejected circulating cancer claims and confirmed that the President had resumed official duties.

Malacañang said that, as of early April, the President continued to carry out government functions, including meetings and policy directives.

Legal framework on disinformation

Officials reiterated that the publication of false information that may endanger public order is punishable under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code. They added that offenses committed through digital platforms may be subject to enhanced penalties under the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

The Palace urged the public to rely on verified government channels and established news organizations when assessing claims involving public officials.

Fact check No official record or medical disclosure supports claims that the President has cancer. Government-issued statements confirm only a prior diagnosis of diverticulitis, from which he was reported to have recovered and resumed a full schedule. n

Philippines, Holy See mark 75 years of diplomatic relations

Enduring ties

by AJPress

MANILA — Ferdinand R. Mar-

cos Jr. joined Catholic Church leaders and members of the diplomatic corps in Manila to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Holy See, reaffirming ties rooted in shared values and cooperation on social and humanitarian priorities.

The reception, held at the Ayuntamiento de Manila in Intramuros, commemorated the formal establishment of ties on April 8, 1951, based on official Philippine records.

The Philippines, one of the world’s largest predominantly Catholic nations, has maintained sustained engagement with the Holy See for more than seven decades. Cooperation has extended beyond ecclesiastical relations to include humanitarian assistance, education, migration, and disaster response initiatives. In remarks during the event, Marcos emphasized partnerships oriented toward the “common good,” reflecting shared priorities in human dignity, social welfare, and community development. Continuing engagement

The Holy See, which maintains diplomatic relations with over 180 countries, engages internationally through moral and humanitarian diplomacy. Its relationship with the Philippines has included apostolic visits, high-level exchanges, and coordination on global concerns such as poverty alleviation and migrant welfare.

A ceremonial toast between Marcos and a senior Vatican diplomat—an archbishop-level representative—underscored the milestone.

Officials said the anniversary reaffirmed longstanding ties, with no new bilateral agreements announced. n

DFA confirms death of another Filipina in Israel amid Middle East conflict

Another Filipino citizen died following a missile attack in Israel amid the Middle East conflict, the Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed.

by CeCile BalTasar Philstar.com

is extending the necessary assistance. Despite limitations in the current travel landscape in the Middle East, the embassy is in the process of arranging for the “earliest possible repatriation” of the Filipina’s remains.  Her family has requested privacy amid their grief.  This is the second confirmed

Mayweather in breach of Pacquiao rematch contract — report

by dino MaraGay Philstar.com

MANILA — It seems Floyd Mayweather Jr. is in legal trouble as far as his scheduled rematch with Manny Pacquiao is concerned.

ESPN’s Andreas Hale reported that Jas Mathur, CEO of Manny Pacquiao Promotions, insisted the Mayweather-Pacquiao fight announced by streaming powerhouse Netflix last month will be a professional bout.

This is contrary to Mayweather’s recent claims that the fight — set September 19 at The Sphere in Las Vegas — will only be an exhibition.

And in doing so, Mathur said the American boxing star is “in breach of his contract”.

“As of right now, the fight is still on. There is no termination of any sort, and he (Mayweather) has signed for a professional fight,” Mathur told Hale.

“Floyd Mayweather is officially in breach of his contract. He’s been in a breach since the day he went out and said what he said on Saturday and he’s officially in a breach as of yester-

day,” he added.

Mayweather made news over the weekend when he told media members in Las Vegas that details of his second tango with Pacquiao aren’t set in stone, and that it will only be an exhibition fight rather than an official one.

“We don’t know the location of the fight. The Sphere is one of the places that they talked about. So we don’t know if it’s a hundred percent going to be there. And this is not actually a fight.

It’s an exhibition,” he said in a report by Vegas Sports Today.

Mayweather outpointed Pacquiao in their big-money showdown in 2015, which ended up as the richest fight in boxing history. Pacquiao had since been yearning for a second shot at the undefeated American.

The Filipino icon has also been vocal about his desire to face Mayweather in the pro ranks and not in a showcase bout, meaning the latter has to put his perfect 50-0 record on the line.

‘Mayweather received money in advance’ It was reported that Mayweather will figure in an interim

bout — or two, if the reported Mike Tyson gig also pushes through — before his rematch with Pacquiao.

He recently announced he will take on Greek kickboxer Mike Zambidis in June.

Such a plan, Mathur told Hale, also constitutes a breach of Mayweather’s contract with Pacquiao.

“Floyd Mayweather signed not one, not two, but three different agreements on three different dates with two different parties that ultimately got intertwined in the month of January,” Mathur continued.

Compounding Mayweather’s legal woes would be the fact that he already received money for the Pacquiao rematch, according to Mathur.

“And this is all related to his return to professional boxing. First one was on October 24th. The second one was on November 6th. Third one was on December 14th. He received money for all three agreements when he signed them. Not only that, but he’s also taken out an advance on his purse for his fight against Pacquiao.”

28, the first day of the war. De Vera was 32, a native of Pangasinan, and had been working as a caregiver in Israel since 2019.

Over the past few days, U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have been warning Iran that they “will continue to crush them,” amidst Iran’s refusal to completely open the Strait of Hormuz. Before the war, the strait provided passage to about a fifth of the world’s seaborne oil supply. The closure has triggered a global oil crisis.  On April 5, Trump gave Iran 48 hours to reopen the Strait. However, Tehran called his threat “unbalanced and foolish,” adding, “The doors of hell will be opened to you,” if America attacked Iran’s infrastructure.

Lacson defers flood control probe pending Chavit Singson affidavit

MANILA — The Senate blue ribbon committee looking into the anomalous flood control projects has put off its April 14 hearing, pending the submission of a sworn affidavit by former Gov. Luis “Chavit” Singson and the signing of its partial report by at least five more members of the panel.

Until now,  only four members have signed the partial report–still five short of the nine signatures needed to constitute a majority and allow it to be reported out on the Senate floor, according to panel head and Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson.

The deferment of the scheduled hearing was contained in Lacson’s letter to Singson on April 7.

“The Committee has deemed it necessary to reschedule the public hearing contingent on the mitigation of the current National Energy Emergency and the formal submission of your sworn affidavit, including all pertinent supporting documents,” the senator said in the letter.

“Additionally, the Committee

has deferred the resumption of the hearings pending the review and signing of the Partial Committee Report currently before its members,” he said.

Lacson said an invitation was initially sent to Singson through email last March 25 and when he did not reply, the  panel sent another invitation letter to him at his residence on April 6.

The committee had given Singson until April 7 to submit his draft affidavit, but it did not receive any response,  the senator added.

Lacson earlier told reporters that the former governor had sent him a letter indicating that he wanted to testify in the flood control probe. Singson even paid the senator a visit at his office last month.

Despite this, Lacson said he may still consider calling a hearing if Singson submits at least a copy of his draft affidavit, and if five more committee members sign the partial report, which recommends a preliminary investigation into individuals implicated in the controversy, including Sens. Francis “Chiz” Escudero, Jinggoy Estrada, and Joel Villanueva.

Those who signed the initial

report were

Should he fail to get the signatures needed to elevate the partial report to the plenary, Lacson said he is considering delivering a Chairman’s Report and then forward it to the Ombudsman with the documents, transcripts and other evidence gathered in at least seven hearings.

“This is to at least help the Ombudsman in its ongoing preliminary investigations,” he said in a press release. n

Government infrastracture spending falls below program in 2025

by auBrey rose inosanTe Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — The government slashed its infrastructure spending to P1.10 trillion last year, below its programmed allocation as the graft-tainted flood control projects choked off disbursements of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Data from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) showed that infrastructure disbursements plunged by 17.3 percent to P1.10 trillion last year from P1.33 trillion in 2024.

It was also 18.8 percent lower than the P1.35 trillion program set by the Development Budget Coordination Committee.

“Infrastructure spending declined significantly during the second half of 2025 following the ongoing probe on the flood control projects of the DPWH,” the DBM said.

For December alone, public works disbursements declined by 27.9 percent to P105.8 billion, marking the sixth consecutive yearly contraction recorded since July.

“Aside from the delays and slowdown in payments caused by tighter controls in the wake of flood control corruption issues, adverse weather conditions, particularly in the earlier part of the fourth quarter, also hampered the implementation of some projects of the DPWH,” the DBM said.

It added that the fund releases to the Revised Armed Forc-

es of the Philippines of the Department of National Defense, as well as payments made for building construction, tempered the contraction.

Direct payments made by development partners for foreign-assisted projects, such as the Manggahan Floodway Bridges Construction Project, the Laguna Lakeshore Road Network and the North-South Commuter Railway Project of the Department of Transportation, helped temper the decline.

For 2025, overall infrastructure disbursements, which also account for the infrastructure components of transfers to local government units as well as subsidies and equity to state-run corporations, plunged to P1.32 trillion.

“The total infrastructure spending in 2025 was equivalent to 4.7 percent of GDP (gross domestic product)  vis-à-vis the 5.3 percent target and 5.8 percent outturn in 2024,” it said.

For 2026, the government lowered its infrastructure spending target to 4.3 percent of the GDP or P1.3 trillion from 5.1 percent or P1.56 trillion previously.

DBM data showed that total government disbursements reached P6.03 trillion for 2025, down by 1.8 percent from P5.93 trillion in 2024.

Against the P6.08 trillion program for 2025, actual disbursements were lower by 0.9 percent, mainly on account of the weaker infrastructure and other capital outlays. “The underperformance re-

sulted from the stricter verification of infrastructure projects and validation of payments by the DPWH because of the corruption issues, while adverse weather conditions in 2025 also affected the implementation and completion of other infrastructure activities,” the DBM said. Infrastructure spending accounted for 18.2 percent of the overall government disbursements in 2025. Under the 2025 total disbursements, personnel services expenditures went up by 6.6 percent to P1.63 trillion due to the implementation of the second tranche of compensation adjustments of qualified civilian government employees and creation and filling of positions in various agencies.

The government also recorded higher maintenance and other operating expenses of P1.13 trillion amid the higher teaching allowance for public school teachers, payments for the Aircraft Maintenance Fund, and the purchase of petroleum, oil and lubricants of the defense agency and the implementation of programs of universal tertiary education.

Allotment to

FeAtures OPiniOn

The heavy toll of distant drums: who pays for the wars of the great

How global conflicts drive up the cost of living in the Philippines and shift the burden to Filipino families at home and abroad.

CONFLICT in the Middle East is often framed in the language of statecraft, deterrence, escalation, alliances, and shifting balances of power. For many Filipinos in the United States, however, its consequences are far more concrete. They appear in household budgets, in remittances recalculated, and in the steady effort to sustain families across borders.

The Philippines remains one of the world’s most remittance-reliant economies. Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas show that cash remittances reached $35.63 billion in 2025. According to the World Bank, these flows account for roughly 8 to 9 percent of gross domestic product, underscoring their central role in household consumption. The United States remains the largest recorded source, contributing more than $14 billion annually. In periods of global instability, that role becomes more consequential.

The economics of war’s aftermath

Editorial

oil markets, shipping lanes, and commodity pricing before settling far from the battlefield. For the Philippines, the transmission is direct. As a net importer of oil, the country is exposed to global price shocks. The Department of Energy has repeatedly underscored this vulnerability, while the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has identified rising oil prices as a key inflation risk. When supply tightens, fuel costs rise, transport becomes more expensive, and the price of basic goods follows.

The headline question is not rhetorical. It is answered in the way costs are distributed. Wars are decided by states, but their economic consequences are dispersed. They move through

These effects are immediate and regressive. And because household consumption is partly sustained by remittances, the burden does not remain within the Philippines. It extends outward to the Filipino diaspora.

A conflict without a single front

THERE is, at this point, no clear end in sight to the war involving Iran.

What began as a regional confrontation has evolved into a broader, more dangerous conflict, with ripple effects now felt across the global economy.

Oil prices have surged unpredictably, shipping routes face heightened risks and supply chains – already strained from previous disruptions – are once again under pressure.

For many countries, this is a geopolitical crisis. For ASEAN, it is something far more immediate: an economic test of resilience.

Southeast Asia remains heavily dependent on energy imports, particularly from the Middle East. As tensions escalate, even the mere threat of supply disruption is enough to drive up costs, weaken currencies and increase inflationary pressures. Across the region, governments are already grappling with rising fuel prices, higher food costs and growing concern among ordinary citizens.

This is the kind of external shock that ASEAN economies

S. Cruz

IN ancient mythology, a hero was a man of great strength and courage. He was favored by the gods and sometimes, like Hercules, was descended from the gods. The root of the word “hero” is the Greek work “heros,” which means “to watch over others.” In modern times, the term “hero” is used to describe a man or woman for their perceived courage, nobility of spirit and extraordinary exploits.

In the Philippines today, we are in dire need of a hero, of a person of extraordinary courage who also looks out for others. Perhaps the most credible example of a modern hero was Ninoy Aquino, who sacrificed his life because he said, “The Filipino is worth dying for.”

The country today is in a terrible state because we have not found the right leaders who will lead us from this morass of corruption and the dominance of selfish and

No end in sight: Why Asean must act now

are particularly vulnerable to –not because of weakness, but because of deep integration into global trade and energy systems. Yet in every crisis, there is also opportunity. The ASEAN Leaders’ Summit in May now takes on a heightened level of importance. Originally envisioned as a routine gathering to advance regional cooperation, it has instead become a critical platform for collective action at a time of uncertainty.

The decision to proceed with the summit – albeit in a more focused format – is both practical and symbolic, underscoring a fundamental truth: when external pressures mount, ASEAN must come together, not drift apart.

But unity alone is not enough. The summit must move beyond carefully worded statements and diplomatic language. It must deliver concrete, coordinated measures that directly address economic challenges confronting the region.

Topping the list is energy security. ASEAN member-states must explore mechanisms for greater coordination – whether through shared strategic reserves, synchronized policy responses or even joint procure-

ment initiatives where feasible. While such measures may not eliminate volatility, they can mitigate its impact and send a strong signal of regional cohesion.

Equally important is food security. Rising energy costs inevitably translate into higher agricultural and transportation expenses, placing pressure on food prices. For many countries in the region, this is not merely an economic issue but a social one. ASEAN must therefore ensure that supply chains remain open, efficient and protected from unnecessary disruptions. Financial coordination is another area that requires immediate action. Currency pressures and inflation are already emerging concerns. Greater dialogue among finance ministers and central banks – possibly leading to coordinated responses – can help stabilize markets and reassure investors.

Then there is the human dimension. Millions of Southeast Asians live and work abroad, including in regions affected by conflict. Their welfare must remain a priority. ASEAN cooperation in ensuring their safety and facilitating assistance when u PAGE 8

In need of heroes

cowardly leaders. The need to select heroes to be our leaders in the 2028 elections is so crucial that I feel we desperately need divine intervention.

When there are heroes, there are also villains. During the Second World War, the villains were obvious. These were the Japanese invaders and the Filipinos who collaborated with these invaders. Today, the villains are not so easy to identify and many of them are, in fact, prominent figures of authority.

In order to wage a crusade against corruption and the evils in our society in 2028, we must be able to identify the villains and the heroes in our society today.

The late nationalist writer F. Sionil Jose had a radical view that the Filipino indio is one oppressed by a new colonizer, the Filipino wealthy elite who send their wealth abroad: “… distilled from the blood and sweat of our Filipino poor.”

Andres Bonifacio also said in an English translation by Teodoro Agoncillo: “Reason tells us to be united in sentiment, in thought

and in purpose in order that we may have the strength to find the means of combatting the prevailing evil in our country.”

In the Philippines, April 9 is observed as Araw ng Kagitingan or Day of Valor. This national holiday commemorates the bravery, sacrifice and resilience of the Filipino soldiers during World War II, especially those who fought and died in the historic battle of Bataan.

On April 9, 1942, Filipino and American soldiers, after months of fighting in extremely difficult conditions, were forced to surrender to the Japanese forces in Bataan. This surrender led to the Bataan Death March, where tens of thousands of prisoners of war were forced to march under brutal conditions. Many suffered and died along the way. This is one of the darkest chapters in Philippine history. However, April 9 is not for remembering a military defeat. It is about honoring the extraordinary courage, endurance and patriotism of those who fought and suffered for the country’s freeu PAGE 8

What is unfolding in the Middle East is not a single war, but a layered conflict in which direct fighting, regional rivalries, and global interests intersect.

At its core is the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, the most visible front, marked by sustained military operations and a deepening humanitarian crisis.

IT has been over three months since Christmas and we have yet to see some big names brought to court for the ghost flood control projects. An estimated P1 trillion of the people’s money has reportedly been lost in various corruption-marred pork barrel projects under DPWH.

The Ombudsman who promised to make some big shots spend Christmas in jail is finding it difficult to even get the Secretary General of Congress to submit SALNs of congressmen under investigation. He has threatened to suspend the Secretary General from office if the subpoena from the Ombudsman’s office is continually ignored.

Quite dramatic. But all it would take, if this administration is not doing a moro-moro, is for BBM to call the House Speaker and ask for the SALNs the Ombudsman wants. So much time has been wasted with no tangible results. And that’s just the first step.

It is important that they start showing some progress in this ghost projects drama. This

Beyond it lies a broader regional dynamic. Iran is widely understood to support or align with several armed groups, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and militias in Iraq and Syria. Their actions, while locally driven, collectively extend Iran’s regional influence. The result is a proxy-driven environment with u PAGE 8

is particularly important now that the nation is facing a grave energy crisis that will surely morph into a crisis in food and livelihood as well.

BBM needs all the credibility he can muster to lead the nation in this difficult time. So far, he has not delivered on his promise to jail those behind this scam.

Zero trust.

Credibility also means telling the people the truth about our current situation. BBM and his officials have been insisting everything is normal when we can all see things are all but normal. They claim they don’t want the people to panic. But the oil crisis will definitely get worse with the war seemingly becoming one of those prolonged American excursions in the Middle East. When the worst inevitably happens, people will know BBM and his officials didn’t tell the truth.

Good thing that Energy Secretary Sharon Garin realized she must manage expectations and decided to tell the real score. This became especially necessary after government propagandists went to town about the so-called deal our diplomats got from Iran to allow our tankers free passage in the Strait of Hor-

muz. People started thinking that the agreement means oil product prices will soon start going down. It really isn’t as simple as that and Secretary Garin did the right thing in setting things right. So, the strait opens for two weeks as part of what is supposedly an interim agreement between the US and Iran. Some tankers that had been previously loaded will now be able to move their cargo through the strait. But that will still be far from normal.

A report suggested that as of March 6, 2026, over 400 tankers were stranded in the Persian Gulf. Of those, roughly 60 are very large crude carriers (VLCCs) anchored or trapped inside the Gulf. The first order of business is to clear the long queue of empty tankers which typically take up to 48 hours each to take on a cargo of oil. As of April 7, 2026, the International Energy Agency reports that 72 energy assets in the region have been damaged, with roughly one-third classified as “severely” or “very severely” damaged. Refineries and oil production facilities that were shut down u PAGE 8

THE world stands at an inflection point—one that, if we choose to recognize and embrace it, could determine the course of history in this century. The question is whether it will finally produce the paradigm shift we need: toward less energy-intensive lifestyles and away from an economy that has long placed profit above people and the planet.

Nobody can turn back the hands of time. To insist on returning to the prewar status quo is naïveté at best, willful ignorance at worst. The world will not return to what it was before Feb. 28—we are already deep in uncharted territory.

The war in Iran, even if the conflict ends after a two-week ceasefire, is a watershed moment—not a blip. Few geopolitical events in this century have had a lasting impact on the global economy and upended international relations. The closest

precedents were the end of the Cold War in 1991, which remade the world order, and the Sept. 11 attacks, which launched the United States-led war on terror and forced nations to choose sides. Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, which laid bare the fatal fragility of just-in-time supply chains and exposed how deeply interconnected—and therefore vulnerable—the global trade had become.

I have long written about the urgency of transitioning to a low-carbon economy to put us on a path to “net zero” because, first, economic growth sustained by fossil fuels is inherently unsustainable. At a certain point, growth will plateau because any progress underpinned by finite resources can’t be sustained indefinitely without sacrificing the health of the people and the planet. Common sense. Our resources are finite—this much is common sense. A sustainable future demands that we use what we have

wisely, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The harder question is why the world continues to power an economy built on the unrealistic promise of perpetual progress with the very fuels—coal, oil, and natural gas—that are exhaustible and planet-polluting (and controlled by a few countries). And why, knowing this, have we waited so long to change?

Second, as long as the Philippines—along with Japan— imports over 95 percent of its oil from the Middle East, it will remain hostage to Gulf nations whose monopolies over crude, oil, and natural gas supplies largely dictate global prices. This heavy dependence on the Middle East, which holds half of the world’s proven conventional reserves, leaves our energy security perpetually exposed to flare-ups in the region. That we deregulated our downstream oil industry in 1998—stripping the government u PAGE 8

EXPLAINER: Why aren’t Philippine laws implemented immediately after the president signs the bill?

On the evening of March 25, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed into law a measure granting the authority to either suspend or reduce excise taxes on petroleum products.

by CeCile BalTasar Philstar.com

REPUBLIC Act No. 12316 is meant to be a tool for the government to help ease the impact of skyrocketing fuel prices triggered by the conflict in the Middle East. But after signing the bill, Marcos said he would wait for the “best time” to implement it. Under the new Act, tax relief is tied to specific conditions: the average Dubai crude oil price must reach or exceed US$80 per barrel for one month, or the President must declare a national emergency due to price hikes.

Even then, to set the Act in motion, an executive order is needed based on recommendations from the Department of Finance and the Department of Energy is needed.

But what exactly does the Constitution say? When the president of the Philippines signs a bill, unless explicitly stated otherwise, it must undergo a process before the president can issue an executive order.

“The earliest that the president can issue the [executive order] is around April 12 or 13, if I’m not mistaken with my numbers,” said Department of Finance Undersecretary Karlo Adriano at the hearing of the Senate Proactive Response and Oversight for Timely and Effective Crisis Strat-

egy committee on March 26. A grace period to allow due process

Citing Article 2 of the Civil Code, Atty. Carlo John Pascual quoted to PhilSTAR L!fe, “Laws shall take effect after 15 days following the completion of their publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation, unless it is otherwise provided.”

There are no exemptions to the publication rule, Atty. Hyacinth Merioles told L!fe.

“Strictly speaking, publication is never optional. The Supreme Court ruled in the [1986] landmark case Tañada vs. Tuvera that all laws must be published. However, there is flexibility regarding when they take effect,” Merioles said.

“In the case of this particular law, it will comply with the 15-day [wait] kasi hindi naman nakalagay na ‘immediately effective from publication’,” she added.

Why is there a need for publication in the first place? “For constructive notice,” said Merioles. “The law assumes that once it is published, everyone knows about it. Without publication, the government can’t punish you for breaking a law you couldn’t have known existed.”

The 15-day grace period gives the public, businesses, and government agencies enough time

to adjust their systems to accommodate the new rule before it becomes active. It allows oil companies to recalibrate their systems and supply chains to incorporate the removal of the tax from pump prices.

Additionally, according to Merioles, numerous tax laws require Implementing Rules and Regulations.

“The law says, ‘Suspend the tax.’ The IRR says, ‘Which specific fuel grades? How do we credit the gas stations? What forms do they fill out?’ Often, the law is technically ‘in effect,’ but it can’t be enforced until the Department of Finance or the Bureau of Internal Revenue finishes writing the manual on how to do it,” Merioles told L!fe. n

The heavy toll of distant drums...

multiple pressure points. These include exchanges along the Israel–Lebanon border, attacks on Red Sea shipping, Israeli strikes in Syria, and periodic attacks on U.S. personnel in Iraq and Syria.

At the same time, the United States remains a central actor, supporting Israel while seeking to contain escalation.

This creates a pattern of expanding tension that stops short of full-scale regional war, but still carries global consequences. Because the conflict intersects with key energy and shipping corridors, disruptions affect oil supply, freight costs, and trade flows. These pressures are transmitted globally, shaping inflation well beyond the region. From oil shocks to food prices The impact does not stop at fuel.

The Food and Agriculture Organization notes that fertilizer production depends heavily on natural gas. As energy prices rise, so do agricultural costs, placing upward pressure on

food prices over time. In the Philippines, where food accounts for a significant share of household spending, this effect is both immediate and persistent.

The cost carried across borders

For Filipino families, these pressures converge at the household level. A remittance that once covered essential expenses may no longer suffice. What follows is not institutional. It is personal.

Research cited by the World Bank shows that remittances often rise during periods of economic stress. In practice, this means Filipino Americans adjust, sending more, sending more often, or reallocating their own budgets to meet growing needs.

This occurs alongside rising costs in the United States. The Federal Reserve continues to track inflation linked in part to global energy markets, affecting fuel, food, and housing.

The result is dual exposure. Expenses rise at home, and obligations increase abroad.

Global institutions, including the International Monetary Fund, have long noted that commodity shocks disproportionately affect import-dependent economies and lower-income households. The Philippines, and the diaspora that supports it, fit squarely within that dynamic.

Where the cost finally lands

The consequences of conflict rarely remain confined to the regions where it is fought. They move through markets and systems before settling into the daily decisions of families far removed from the original crisis.

For Filipino Americans, this is not abstract.

Each year, billions of dollars flow from the United States to the Philippines, sustaining households and absorbing external shocks.

When the cost of living rises there, the adjustment is made here.

And in that quiet transfer, measured in dollars sent, savings deferred, and plans postponed, the true cost of distant wars is revealed. (AJPress)

In need of heroes...

dom. This is also the time to recognize that heroism is not limited to soldiers.

Everyday Filipinos who contribute to the country with integrity, courage and compassion also embody the spirit of Araw ng Kagitingan. As Joseph Campbell once wrote, “A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than one’s self.”

In the days and months to come, as we prepare and work to elect leaders of proven integrity and courage, we should be aware that perhaps Election Day in 2028 will be another Araw ng Kagitingan.

Freedom is never free. We must appreciate the liberty and the restoration of democracy. We must be ready to fight for its preservation. There will be difficult moments over the next two years. Standing up for what is right is not always the most popular thing to do. But each and every one of us can be a hero or someone who acts with courage, even with fear, and inspires others through their actions and their values.

Heroes can be soldiers like those especially remembered on Araw ng Kagitingan. But heroes can also be teachers, doctors, parents, workers and ordinary

citizens who choose to do what is right even when it is difficult and does not have popular support at that moment.

In the country today, heroes are those who have a deep love of country. Heroes are persons whose actions are guided by a desire to serve others and protect the dignity and freedom of the Filipino people. (Philstar.com)

* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

* * * Email: elfrencruz@gmail.com

World Bank cuts Philippines growth forecast to 3.7%

by louella desiderio Philstar.com

MANILA — The World Bank trimmed its growth forecast for the Philippines for this year with the Middle East conflict seen to affect economic activity.

In an online briefing yesterday, World Bank senior economist Ergys Islamaj said the multilateral lender expects the Philippine economy to grow by 3.7 percent this year.

This is lower than the multilateral lender’s 5.3 percent growth forecast provided in January.

The latest forecast is also below the government’s five to six percent gross domestic product (GDP) growth target for the year.

If the new growth forecast is realized, the Philippine economy will be growing at a slower pace than the 4.4 percent growth posted in 2024.

“Philippines is exposed to the conflict not only through energy and fertilizer imports but also through remittances,” Islamaj said.

With 18 percent of remittances to the Philippines coming from the Gulf, the World Bank expects a longer conflict in the

PAGE 7

Middle East to hurt the Philippine economy further.

For 2027, the World Bank expects the Philippine economy to grow by 5.6 percent. This is higher than the 5.4 percent growth forecast provided in January. It is also within the government’s 5.5 to 6.5 percent growth target for next year.

During the House of Representatives committee on ways and means hearing on Wednesday, April 8, Balisacan said economic growth could go as low as 3.5 percent this year under the worst case scenario of world oil prices staying at $150 a barrel.

The Philippine Statistics Authority will release data on the first quarter economic perfor

Department of Economy, Planning and Development Secretary (DEPDev) Arsenio Balisacan said that economic growth is likely to fall below the government’s target for this year if world oil prices remain elevated.

mance next month. n

No end in sight...

needed is both a moral obligation and a practical necessity.

These are not long-term aspirations. They are immediate imperatives. Which brings us to the role of the Philippines – and of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

As ASEAN chair this year, the Philippines is uniquely positioned to guide the regional response. Chairmanship in ASEAN has often been described as facilitative rather than directive.

But in moments such as this, leadership takes on a deeper meaning. It becomes about setting the tone, shaping the agenda and building consensus where it matters most.

President Marcos Jr. can steer discussions toward actionable outcomes – ensuring that the summit does not end with declarations alone, but with a shared commitment to concrete steps.

Understanding the stakes, the Philippines navigates both domestic and economic pressures in an increasingly complex global environment – allowing it to act both as a voice of pragmatism and a bridge among differing national priorities.

Beyond the immediate crisis, however, ASEAN must also begin to think more strategically. The lesson from the current sit-

PAGE 7

will take some time to get back to speed. The owners, insurers and crews of tankers will also have to feel comfortable with how safe it is to move, regardless of assurances from Trump.

Experts say that any semblance of normalcy cannot be expected until at least four months after a permanent end to the war is reached, not just a truce. For all practical purposes, consider the rest of the year as gone.

So, congratulations to Secretary Garin for having the balls to tell it as it is. That keeps everyone on alert, practicing energy conservation and taking steps to survive the crisis. If things get better by some miracle, at least we were prepared to suffer the worst. Secretary Garin scored one for credibility.

But the credibility of BBM will remain low for so long as the Ombudsman is unable to file appropriate charges against some big shots from Congress who, from hearings and other documents we have seen, are apparently deeply involved in plundering our Treasury in the pork

uation is clear: external shocks are no longer rare events. They are becoming part of a new global reality – driven by geopolitical tensions, economic fragmentation and shifting power dynamics.

Given this, resilience cannot be an afterthought. It must be built deliberately and collectively by accelerating efforts toward energy diversification, strengthening intra-ASEAN trade and investing in systems that can absorb and adapt to sudden disruptions. It also means deepening cooperation in areas such as digital connectivity, infrastructure and financial integration. The goal is not to insulate ASEAN from the world – that would be neither possible nor desirable. Rather, it is to ensure that when the world becomes more uncertain, ASEAN remains steady.

History shows that the strength of ASEAN lies in its ability to find common ground amid diversity. That strength will be tested once again. The Iran conflict may be geographically distant, but its consequences are already felt across our region. The question is not whether ASEAN will be affected, but how ASEAN will respond.

The summit in May must there-

Credibility...

barrel project scams.

A report of the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ), revealed that BBM greenlit P213.8 billion in unprogrammed funds for so-called “priority” projects in 2023–2024. And most of those projects prioritized graft over the public good, PCIJ observed.

BBM was probably just acting in line with the “kalakaran” or mode of behavior expected of our politicians. This does not absolve BBM but it requires him to explain his actions. If he wants to show he did not benefit from those projects, he must be more active in recovering the stolen cash and sending offenders to jail.

Our government has never been credible when it comes to fighting corruption and this administration has done nothing to change that impression. Except for Erap, no high-ranking official has ever been convicted of corruption and have actually served time. Even with Erap, PGMA quickly pardoned him. It doesn’t help that the Independent Commission for Infrastructure closed shop. Given its

fore be more than a meeting of leaders. It must be a moment of collective resolve.

For the Philippines, with our deep Christian faith most especially at this time – it is a moment of leadership – not in grand declarations, but in the ability to bring nations together toward a common purpose. As President Marcos Jr. himself has often emphasized, leadership is ultimately about responsibility – responsibility not only to one’s own people, but to the broader community of nations. And in a time of uncertainty, that responsibility becomes even more profound. For ASEAN, the path forward will not be easy, but it is clear: we must act together – decisively, and with purpose.

Because in the end, as President Marcos Jr. said, “The true strength of our region lies not in what we face alone, but in what we are able to achieve together.” (Philstar.com)

* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

* * *

Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com

short life, it seems that ICI was created to manage the public image of BBM, to show he is doing something about the ghost projects. Now, ICI’s usefulness has expired.

The ICI recommended filing charges against two senators, two members of Congress, a DPWH engineer and a COA commissioner for plunder. Will cases be filed soon?

For BBM’s credibility, the oil crisis should not be used to buy time in the hope that people will forget the corruption cases. Nope, the trillion pesos stolen from us will be hard to forget. BBM can rescue his plunging approval rating by moving faster to hold even his relatives and friends who are involved in the mess fully accountable. (Philstar. com)

* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

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

Mad rush to renewables...

PAGE 7 of its power over fuel pricing and supply, and abolishing the Oil Price Stabilization Fund; sold off Petron, which had effectively neutralized the oil cartel’s grip on pump prices; and abandoned any serious commitment to strategic oil reserves, leaving us with a mere 45 to 60 days of stockpile while Japan maintains 250—speaks volumes about the folly of our lawmakers, and the corrosive influence of oil money over the national interest.

Transition delays. Mirroring the inertia of Western nations, successive Philippine administrations have long delayed the transition to a low-carbon energy pathway. The objections by oil players are familiar: solar panels and solar farms remain costly, the window for harvesting sunlight is limited, wind turbines are difficult to site in mountainous terrain, and many renewable sources lie too far from existing power grids to be practical.

Now, with pump prices going through the roof, Filipinos are taking a second look at renewables—energy sources so accessible and familiar that their very ordinariness had blinded us to their usefulness. Those who can afford it are rushing to buy electric or hybrid vehicles. The rest of the middle class are snapping up rechargeable batteries sold online and sourcing affordable solar panels to install at home, connecting them to power meters in a bid to cushion the blow when electricity bills arrive. Are we witnessing a genuine behavioral change driven by a shift in mindset, or merely a temporary, cost-driven response that has little to do with saving the planet? Either way, it is welcome news for green advocates and a boon to the planet’s health. That it took a war a continent away to force us to seriously consider alternatives to oil is a tragedy in itself—but here we are. Change rarely happens

overnight, yet some events compress years of inertia into weeks. The war in Iran is proving to be

ASIAN

Friday, April 10, 2026

Filipino voices gain ground in Hollywood as Isa Briones reflects on representation in ‘The Pitt’

by AJPress

LOS ANGELES — Filipi-

no-American actress Isa Briones is part of a growing cohort of performers and creators advancing Filipino representation in mainstream U.S. entertainment, a shift she says is defined not only by visibility on screen but by authorship behind it.

Briones appears as Dr. Trinity Santos in The Pitt, a medical drama structured around real-time hospital shifts at a fictional Pittsburgh trauma center. The series has drawn attention for its ensemble cast and narrative format, as well as for including multiple Filipino-American actors in healthcare roles.

In recent remarks during a virtual media interview, Briones described her participation in the series as professionally significant and culturally meaningful, noting the relative scarcity of Filipino-specific roles in earlier stages of her career.

Expanding on-screen roles

Briones is joined in the series by Amielynn Abellera and Kristin Villanueva, who portray emergency room nurses. Their casting reflects a broader, though still evolving, recognition of Filipino presence in the U.S. healthcare workforce—an area historically underrepresented in scripted television narratives.

She also pointed to parallel developments in other productions, including St. Denis Medical, featuring Nico Santos and Yssamei Panganiban.

Briones acknowledged the complexity of identity in casting, noting that her own appearance has afforded her access to roles not always available to others.

However, she emphasized that the presence of Filipino actors across a spectrum of roles contributes to a more accurate and expansive portrayal of the community.

Shift toward Filipino-led storytelling Industry observers have noted a concurrent rise in Filipino-American creatives working behind the camera. Cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw has been recognized for her work in major film productions, while projects such as Forgotten Island—co-directed by Januel Mercado—highlight increasing Filipino participation in creative leadership roles.

Briones framed this development as a structural shift rather than a momentary trend, underscoring that meaningful representation depends on who is shaping narratives at the writ-

ing, directing, and production levels.

“For decades, Filipino actors often portrayed other Asian identities due to limited opportunities,” she said in substance. “What is changing now is the ability to tell stories grounded in Filipino experience.”

Continuing trajectory Streaming availability has further expanded audience access, with “The Pitt” distributed on platforms including HBO Max. As the industry continues to diversify its storytelling base, Briones and her peers represent a cohort navigating both increased opportunity and ongoing gaps in representation.

The trajectory, she indicated, will depend on sustained audience engagement and continued investment in Filipino-led projects across film and television.

Dolly de Leon lands series regular role in Apple TV+ thriller “Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed”

Filipina actress takes on a detective role in a 10-episode dark comedy thriller set for global release May 20, 2026

by AJPress

MANILA — Filipina actress

Dolly de Leon has been cast as a series regular in the upcoming Apple TV+ dark comedy thriller Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed, extending a run of international roles following her breakout performance in Triangle of Sadness.

The 10-episode series is scheduled to premiere globally on May 20, 2026 on Apple TV+, with the first two episodes set for release on launch day, followed by weekly installments.

Production framework and narrative scope

Created and executive produced by David J. Rosen, the series follows Paula, portrayed by Tatiana Maslany, a fact-checker and recently divorced mother who becomes drawn into a self-initiated investigation of a suspected crime.

Studio materials describe the narrative as unfolding into a “dangerous rabbit hole” involving blackmail, murder, and youth soccer, blending suburban domestic life with an expanding criminal conspiracy.

De Leon plays Detective Gonzalez, a law enforcement figure positioned within the investigative core of the series. She appears alongside Jon Michael Hill, who portrays Detective Baxter.

A note on attribution: early trade reporting referenced the character as “Detective Sofia Gonzalez,” while current studio materials list “Detective Gonzalez.” This report reflects the most recent available credits.

Cast ensemble

The series is led by Tatiana Maslany as Paula, with Jake Johnson portraying her ex-husband Karl. The supporting cast includes Murray Bartlett, alongside Brandon Flynn, Jessy Hodges, and Charlie Hall. From local acclaim to global roles De Leon’s casting follows her internationally recognized per-

formance in Triangle of Sadness, directed by Ruben Östlund, which won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 2022. Her performance earned nominations from major awards bodies, including the Golden Globe and BAFTA, contributing to her transition into globally distributed productions. Her subsequent work has included a role in the second season of Nine Perfect Strangers. Industry announcements have also linked her to the upcoming animated feature Forgotten Island, though full production details remain limited in publicly available disclosures.

Filipino singer Matty Juniosa advances to ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ semifinals, hints at genre shift Carlo Aquino affirms commitment to Philippine cinema after period of uncertainty

by AJPress

MANILA — Filipino singer Matty Juniosa will com-

pete in the live semifinals of Britain’s Got Talent after earning a Golden Buzzer during the audition round.

Juniosa secured the spot with a rendition of Purple Rain, prompting judge Simon Cowell to advance him directly to the next stage. The semifinals are scheduled to begin April 25.

A shift in performance approach

Ahead of the live shows, Juniosa said his upcoming piece will depart from the style audiences have seen so far.

“We’re going quite masculine… this is quite out of range for me,” he said, describing the performance as a deliberate shift meant to expand his artistic range. The move aligns with a common strategy among contestants seeking to demonstrate versatility before audience voting begins. Training and career direction

Based in Glasgow, Juniosa balanced part-time work with studies at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, where he trained in musical theater.

He said he intends to pursue both theater and mainstream music, describing the balance as central to his long-term direction.

“I can’t let go of what I learned… but I also can’t just be musical theater and let go of my past,” he said.

by AJPress

MANILA

— Actor Gerald Anderson has opened a second resort property in Zambales, expanding his presence in the Philippines’ domestic tourism sector while maintaining an active screen career. Anderson announced the launch of “Trivera,” a riverfront resort in Cabangan, Zambales, through a post on his verified social media account on April 8. He described the project as one he helped develop “from the ground up,” emphasizing a focus on design and guest experience.

The property follows his earlier beach resort in Botolan, Zambales, which opened in 2020 and was later expanded to include campsite accommodations. No investment figures or operational details have been publicly disclosed.

Expansion in a growing destination Zambales has seen increased interest from domestic travelers seeking less developed coastal and nature-based destinations. Riverfront concepts such as Trivera offer an alternative to traditional beachfront resorts, aligning with broader shifts toward experiential and outdoor-oriented tourism.

Career and business trajectory

Anderson first gained national recognition through Pinoy Big Brother: Teen Edition in 2006, launching a long-running career with ABS-CBN. He rose to prominence through high-rating television projects, including a widely followed on-screen partnership with Kim Chiu, and later transitioned

Growing visibility Juniosa’s profile has also drawn attention online, including engagement from Sophia Laforteza of Katseye and Filipino-American singer Jessica Sanchez.

As the semifinals approach, Juniosa said he is focused on preparing for the live stage while managing increased attention, marking a transition from student performer to international contender.

MANILA — Carlo Aquino, whose career spans more than three decades in Philippine film and television, said he is staying in the local entertainment industry following a period of financial difficulty that once led him to consider working abroad.

In recent interviews reflecting on his career, Aquino described the uneven nature of project-based work in the Philippine entertainment sector, particularly during his transition from child actor to adult roles.

Early recognition and industry volatility Aquino rose to prominence for his role in the 1998 film Bata, Bata… Pa’no Ka Ginawa?, directed by Chito Roño. His performance, including a widely quoted line from the film, remains part of Filipino popular culture.

Despite early success, Aquino has said his career did not translate into consistent financial stability. During a slowdown in acting

opportunities in the mid-2000s, he took on work outside the industry, including assisting in tarpaulin production and transport-related jobs, to support daily expenses.

He also explored the possibility of relocating to the United States through family sponsorship, citing the unpredictability of acting income at the time. He ultimately did not pursue the move.

Personal developments

Aquino said changes in his personal life contributed to greater stability. In June 2024, he married actress Charlie Dizon. He has described the marriage as a defining moment that clarified his priorities.

He also remains involved in co-parenting his daughter with model Trina Candaza.

Current work and direction

Aquino continues to take on roles in film and television, with recent projects reflecting a shift toward more character-driven material. His work in A Special Memory has been positioned as part of a broader transition to mature roles.

into action-oriented roles requiring physical

Gutierrez, Bela Padilla, Barbie Imperial, and Baron Geisler.

SEOUL — South Korea’s primary intelligence agency has named actor Hyun Bin an honorary counterintelligence agent, a symbolic designation aimed at strengthening public awareness of evolving espionage risks and updated national security laws, according to official statements.

The appointment was confirmed by the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and the actor’s management, VAST Entertainment. Officials clarified that the role carries no operational authority and is part of a broader public outreach effort focused on safeguarding sensitive information.

Legal scope expands

The designation follows a recent revision to espionage-related provisions under South Korea’s criminal law, enacted by the National Assembly of South Korea. The update broadens the definition of espionage beyond activities involving an “enemy

state”—traditionally referring to North Korea—to include the unauthorized disclosure of state secrets to any foreign country or comparable organization.

Authorities said the change responds to increasing incidents involving the attempted transfer of advanced technologies and defense-related information, including cyber-enabled activities.

Public engagement strategy

The NIS said Hyun Bin will participate in campaigns aimed at reframing counterintelligence as a broader national responsibility, rather than a narrowly defined inter-Korean issue. An agency official described counterintelligence as a “critical national survival task,” citing the need to protect strategic assets.

Screen roles align with message Hyun Bin’s recent roles mirror the agency’s messaging.

In The Point Men, he portrayed an NIS operative involved in a hostage mission inspired by the 2007 Afghanistan crisis. He is

In interviews, Aquino has emphasized a focus on longevity and craft, rather than celebrity. His decision to remain in the Philippines underscores a renewed commitment to sustaining a career within the domestic industry. His experience reflects a broader reality for many actors in the region, where careers often require adaptation and resilience amid fluctuating opportunities.

also reported to appear as an intelligence officer in the series “Made in Korea.”

He remains widely known for Crash Landing on You, where he starred opposite Son Ye-jin, contributing to his international recognition. Officials did not specify the duration of the honorary designation.

STEM cell Rx

The building block of every cell, tissue, and organ in the body is the stem cell. Stem cells are undifferentiated, with no “specific assigned task as yet.”

This has been likened to a blank computer microchip that could be “programmed to perform any number of special tasks.”

Under appropriate conditions, stem cells can differentiate into specialized tissues and organs (heart, liver, kidneys, etc.). Also, stem cells are “self-sustaining and can replicate themselves for long periods of time.”

Scientists, working on mouse models, have discovered that stem cell therapy could SOMEDAY possibly help cure many common diseases that afflict man today. Some of these include stroke, spinal cord injury, heart diseases, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, osteoarthritis, retinal degeneration and blindness, rheumatoid arthritis, liver and kidney diseases, burns, type 1 diabetes, and muscular dystrophies. While the goal of stem cell research is unquestionably laudable, and its potential benefit to mankind tremendous, the controversy centers on its efficacy and safety today, as well as ethical, moral, religious, legal, and social ramifications.

Basically, the grave concerns are (1) the hype and claims are too premature and untrue; (2) where the stem cells will be harvested from (adult, fetus, or embryo), and (3) the possible misuse and abuse of this new technology.

As I have stated in my talk before the Rotary Club some time ago this evolving science merits more randomized, double-blind, and voluminous clinical studies in various medical centers around the world before it becomes a standard in medical care. It also requires a deep soul-searching introspection, and a serious, intense, and thoughtful deliberation to arrive at a morally, ethically, and medically sound stem cell treatment protocol that will also ensure the protection of the unborn, besides healing the sick, and at the same time preserve the dignity of humankind it seeks to serve.

FEATURES Warning capsules

With its unique characteristics, stem cells can provide the cells to replace damaged or diseased tissues with new living cells that will regenerate into healthy, young, normally functioning tissues, in the treatment of conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, etc. as listed above, where specific parts of the organs have been damaged and rendered “non-functioning” leading to the development of the disease.

Organ donation is available today, but the organ supply is very limited, and the procedure is expensive, arduous, and usually complicated by rejection of the transplanted organ(s). This is where stem cell therapy has a great advantage over.

However, the last word is not in yet. Anyone or any clinic that claims otherwise and offers stem cell therapy for many other diseases is bordering on fraud. The evidence-based clinical data show that stem-cell therapy is effective in the management of blood dyscrasias, leukemia, and some lymphomas, with wonderful results. These are the only official indications for the use of stem cells today. Not for cosmesis, rejuvenation, longevity, etc. Anecdotal reports and endorsements are paid commercials, not medical facts. Beware. Sadly, even the medical field is not free of charlatans and thieves. Hippocrates must be turning in his grave.

Melatonin worsens asthma New studies revealed that the popular sleep hormone, Melatonin, worsens attacks among asthmatic patients. Melatonin is sold over the counter and is an ingredient in many sleep aid formulas. Many of these patients, who take a sleep aid that has melatonin as a component, have more severe episodes because melatonin constricts the airway passage, making it harder for these persons to breathe. However, natural melatonin secreted by our own body does not cause any problems. Other sensitive individuals (non-asthmatic) could develop heart rhythm irregularity with melatonin. Among children with asthma, eating fatty fish like sardines and salmon at least two times a week has been shown to reduce asthma symptoms. An impressive lung function improvement was noted after six months of these children started eating fish. The high Omega-3 (anti-oxidant) content of the fish is an anti-in-

flammatory agent. Daily exercise also reduces asthmatic symptoms by more than 2.5 times compared to those who do not.

Plant-based diet

Abundant clinical studies have shown that plant-based diets, like the Mediterranean Diet, South Beach Diet, Vegetarian Diet, etc., are healthier compared to diets mainly on red meat. Pork is not white meat as marketed; it is also red meat. Chicken is white meat. Individuals on plant-based diets, which are loaded with polyphenols and antioxidants that are anti-inflammatory, have a lower risk for metabolic and cardiovascular illnesses and cancers. Exception: Nightshade vegetables (eggplant, potato, pepper, tomato) aggravate arthritis. Oatmeal, nuts, and about 3-5 servings of fruits (diabetics should add these to their calorie count) are healthy. The burnt part of barbequed meats could increase the risk for cancers, like that of the pancreas.

Sedentary death

Inactivity is a major “disease” that kills millions upon millions around the world. It is a mindset, a bad habit, a lack of discipline. Sedentary lifestyle (lack of exercise) is worse than many individual maladies afflicting people today, because it is a factor in most serious illnesses, like diabetes mellitus, heart attack, stroke, sexual dysfunction, osteoporosis, etc. As a matter of fact, science has shown that physical activities, regimented daily exercises, lower the incidence, not only of those diseases listed above, but of depression and suicide, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer. An active lifestyle also slows down the aging process, keeps our skin looking young(er), tones our muscles, enables us to have better metabolism and weight control, fortifies our immune system against diseases and infections, and even improves our outlook in life. Indeed, daily physical exercise also protects our mind, our entire body, and our being.

Professor Frank Booth, Ph.D, of the biomedical sciences at the University of Missouri-Columbia, coined the term Sedentary Death Syndrome (SeDS) to dramatize the reality that “exercising is a matter of life and death.” That’s how important, essential, and physical exercise is to the human organism. It is a dreadful fact, but 70% of Americans today do NOT exercise regularly. Oth-

er, less health-conscious people around the world are obviously even worse. Just sitting around is a worldwide phenomenon. The World Health Organization last year reported that “about 2 million deaths annually worldwide are attributed to sedentary lifestyles.”

Even simple sitting exercises for the neck, arms, legs, feet, toes, for seniors (or anyone), done properly 3 times a day, and standing on one leg, alternatingly to maintain balance and stability, for as long as one can do it, will prevent accidental falls, which killed 41,000 Americans in 2023.

One of Professor Booth’s subtitles is Dead Man Sitting. “Sitting kills more than 300,000 Americans annually…if SeDS were a real disease entity, that would make it the third leading cause of death in the United States, right after heart disease and cancer,” he stated. These inactivity-related disorders affect nearly 75% of adults and children and are projected to cost the United States $1.5 trillion over the next ten years.

* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

* * *

The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.

* * * Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He is a decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, US senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Astronaut Gus Grissom, pugilist Muhammad Ali, David Letterman, distinguished educators, scientists, etc. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday. com, and philipSchua.com. On Amazon.com, search for “Where is My America?” Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.

A Series of TV/Radio Guesting Experiences

FROM the warm hospitality of radio booths to the bright lights of TV studios, the past few weeks have been a whirlwind.

It is always a privilege to step into the world of media, where stories are amplified and conversations spark change. Sharing my passion with Filipino and foreign viewers and listeners has been an unforgettable experience. Here is a recap of my recent media guestings across the Philippines.

On February 4, 2026, I guested on Guia Cruz Buenaventura’s Coffee, Tea on MHE, a daily morning talk show at Media House Express in Mandaluyong City. It was my third appearance on the program, and as always, the discussion flowed naturally. Buenaventura creates an environment where guests feel at ease while engaging on relevant issues.

Her show blends “cosmic insights,” community updates, and interviews. I first met her in 2024 when we were both awardees at the Philippines Finest Business Awards and Outstanding Achievers.

On February 20, 2026, I appeared with Salvacion Paparon on Audrey Dones Gorriceta’s Kamay na Bakal on Sword TV. It was my third guesting on the program. My first was in 2024, followed by an online appearance last year shortly after my return from San Francisco. That segment was done from a coffee shop in Manila.

Kamay na Bakal is a public affairs and news program under Sword TV Philippines Broadcasting, with a newsfocused counterpart known as KNB News.

While attending the first PAFTA Awards at the Manila Hotel on February 21, 2026, I was also interviewed online on Magnum Sabado Night Talk of Magnum Radyo 99.9 News and Music, together with entrepreneur Salvacion Paparon. Hosted by Magnum Gilbert De Los Santos and Magnum Mencho Cabactulan

of Cagayan de Oro City, the segment was both engaging and lively.

On February 22, 2026, I appeared on Checkpoint 1062 alongside entrepreneur Steward Fantilaga, a fellow recipient of the 2026 Philippines Finest Business Awards. Both of us were recently featured on a Times Square billboard in New York City. Checkpoint 1062 airs on NET25 Radyo Agila and focuses on current issues, security, and national developments. It is hosted by Earlo Gabriel Bringas and Al Vin Diesel and is broadcast on DZEC Radyo Agila, with livestreams available online.

On February 26, 2026, I was the sole guest on Radyo Balintataw, hosted by Cecile Guidote-Alvarez, a Ramon Magsaysay Awardee and founder of the Philippine Educational Theatre Association (PETA). A long-running, multiawarded program on DZRH, Radyo Balintataw serves as a “theater of the air,” tackling social issues, literature, and history to promote national culture and development.

“Open to Smart Rewards Card Members’ Children… 90 Winners, $10,000 Total Prize Pool”

LYNDHURST, NJ – H Mart, the largest Asian supermarket chain in North America, is excited to launch its 2026 Children’s Art Contest to celebrate Family Month. This year’s theme, “Draw Your Favorite H Mart Moment,” invites young artists to showcase their creativity inspired by H Mart—whether that experience took place in the store, in the kitchen, at a picnic, or purely in their imagination. The contest will run from Friday, April 3, to Sunday, April 26, and is open to children from Pre-K to 5th grade whose parents or guardians are members of the H Mart Smart Rewards Card program.

How to Participate:

1. Visit the customer service desk at your nearest H Mart store and present a Smart Rewards Card to receive the official contest drawing sheet.

2. Complete artwork on the provided sheet.

On March 13, 2026, Nirro de Leon Marcelo of Sirbisu Channel and I appeared on Jigo Live!, hosted by Jigo Postelero on DWAR Abante Radyo Tabloidista at the Bilyonaryo News TV compound in Quezon City. The program also reaches audiences in North America. Postelero, often referred to as “DJ Jigo Jigolo,” is a broadcaster, actor, and longtime news anchor for Abante. He cohosts P! Kwentong Politiko and previously worked on i-Abante Mo!, reflecting his range across media formats.

Forthcoming Guesting

On April 14, 2026, I will appear on NET25’s Diskusyon hosted by Weng Madumma and Monna Dagsaan. The weekday afternoon program focuses on entrepreneurship, livelihood services, and community-driven stories.

National Press Foundation Holds Webinar on Women Voters 50+

year ago, according to a new AARP survey. Concerns over rising living costs and the longterm outlook of Social Security

are expected to influence this key voting bloc in the 2026 midterm elections.

To provide context, the National Press Foundation will host a webinar on April 9, 2026, at 1 p.m. ET, guiding journalists on how to report on these economic pressures with depth and accuracy.

Panelists include Kristen Soltis Anderson of Echelon Insights; Nancy LeaMond of AARP; Margie Omero of GBAO; Rutgers University professor Yana van der Meulen Rodgers; and Michelle Singletary of The Washington Post

The discussion will examine survey methodology, voter sentiment, and issues such as retirement and caregiving, offering journalists practical angles for coverage. Birthday Greeting Happy

3. Return the finished artwork to the customer service desk, where the participant will receive a QR code for online registration.

4. Complete the online registration using the QR code.

As a special incentive this year, every participant who completes their online registration will receive a $10 discount coupon (valid for a $100 purchase).

A total of 90 winners will be selected. Each category will have one overall winner, who will receive a $1,000 scholarship, an award plaque, and a special certificate of achievement. Additional winners include 1st place (2 per category), 2nd place (5 per category), 3rd place (10 per category), and honorable mentions (54 total across all categories). All winners will receive scholarships, trophies, and certificates. The total prize pool amounts to $10,000. Winners will be announced on Friday, June 12, via the H Mart official website, social media channels, in-store posters, and email.

H Mart said, “We hope this art contest provides children with a wonderful opportunity to express their imagination and create fun, meaningful memories with their families. We are especially excited to see the diverse ‘H Mart Moments’ that will inspire our young artists this year.”

For more information, customers can contact the H Mart Customer Service Center via email at customer_care@hmart.com or by phone at 877-427-7386. Nevada (NV) Participating Stores: Las Vegas: 2620 S Decatur Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89102 / 702-688-7788

Yasmien Kurdi files DepEd complaint vs. Makati school over alleged bullying case

Actor cites enforcement gaps; school disputes characterization of incidents

by AJPress

MANILA — Actress Yasmien

Kurdi has filed an administrative complaint with the Department of Education (DepEd) against Colegio San Agustin Makati, alleging inadequate response to reported incidents involving her daughter.

The complaint, confirmed April 8, 2026, stems from events in late 2024 and raises questions on enforcement of the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, which requires schools to implement prevention and intervention measures.

Kurdi alleges her daughter, then 12, was subjected to repeated incidents, including being blocked from leaving a classroom, excluded during recess, and pressured to write negative statements about herself. She also cited a cut-up photograph

and an alleged unauthorized video recording, which she said contributed to anxiety requiring therapy.

Colegio San Agustin Makati, in earlier statements through counsel, denied the incidents constituted bullying, describing them instead as a student “situation” tied to school activities. The school said it handled the matter with “caution and confidentiality” and urged respect for the privacy of minors. Under R.A. 10627, DepEd may review school compliance and impose administrative measures if policies are not properly enforced. The agency has not issued a final ruling. Kurdi said her daughter has since transferred schools and resumed activities. She has also raised the issue with Sonny Angara

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