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APRIL 15-21, 2022
T h e F i l i p i n o –A m e r i c A n c o m m u n i T y n e w s pA p e r
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Also published in LOS ANGELES • ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE • NORTHERN CALIFORNIA • NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY • LAS VEGAS
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FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
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Overseas voting for the 2022 Philippine elections begins Eligible Filipino voters in US to receive ballots by mail
by AJPress Members of the Philippine Embassy led by Deputy Chief of Mission Jaime Ramon Ascalon, Jr. (4th from the right) with U.S. Undersecretary of the Air Force Gina Ortiz Jones during the Bataan Memorial Death March on April 2.
Bataan Death March heroes honored through memorial march
ELIGIBLE Filipino voters can begin casting their ballots about a month ahead of the May 9 Philippine national elections. The monthlong overseas voting period, from April
10 to May 9, will enable registered Filipino voters to vote for their preferred president, vice president, senatorial and party-list representatives. “In North America (U.S. and Canada) where overseas voting is going to be by mail, the ballots will be sent out upon the start of the voting period,” the Commission on Elections (COMELEC)
by Dona Z. PaZZibugan, Melvin gascon, Tina g. sanTos Inquirer.net
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COVID-19 cases continue to rise in the United States with the Northeast states recording the highest seven-day case rates per 100,000. New York City is experiencing an uptick in positive cases. Data from New York Times reveal that the average number of newly reported cases per day has gone up by 49% to 1,688 over the past couple of weeks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, seven of the 10 states with the highest seven-day rates are in the Northeast. Both New York and New Jersey have seen their average daily cases increase by 64 percent, the CDC data shows. Among the other Northeastern states seeing increases are Vermont, Maine, and Connecticut.
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Probe absentee voting mess, senators ask Comelec
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Philippine Embassy participated in the Bataan Memorial Death March held on April 2. The Embassy contingent, led by Deputy Chief of Mission Jaime Ramon T. Ascalon, Jr., joined the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetREP) led by its Chairman, Major General (ret.) Tony Taguba, Regional Director and Former U.S. Consul General Sonny Busa in honoring Filipino and American veterans alike. The event was also graced by the U.S. Undersecretary of the Air Force Gina Ortiz Jones.
COVID-19 cases up 49% in NYC
spokesperson James Jimenez wrote on Twitter. “Expect to receive your ballots after April 10.” Overseas voting in the United States will be done by mail and registered overseas voters included in the certified list of voters released by COMELEC will receive ballot packets through their registered
DEVOTION. Catholic devotees offer prayers in front of the 12th Station of the Cross in Calvary Hills at Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto Shrine in San Jose Del Monte City, Bulacan on Thursday, April 14. The Calvary Hill features 14 Stations of the Cross that portray the suffering of Jesus Christ and has 127 statues presented in dioramas that took three years to build. PNA photo by Ben Briones
MANILA — Two senators on Monday, April 11 called on the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to investigate the alleged disorder that marred the first day of absentee voting abroad, mainly in Hong Kong. Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III, chair of the Senate committee on foreign relations, said the Comelec should tweak its policies and instructions to its personnel and put in place an immediate solution to improve the current system. “My heart goes out to those (overseas Filipino workers or OFWs) who were ready to vote but had to be turned back and would have to return to cast their vote,” Pimentel said. But Pimentel expressed optimism that the Comelec still has enough time to remedy the
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Fil-Am supporters flock to HiFi for BBM-Sara Duterte rally by Donnabelle
gaTDula-arevalo AJPress
LOS ANGELES - Some 300-strong Filipino American supporters of Uniteam “Samasamang Babangon Muli” presidential candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (BBM) and his running mate Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio are optimistic that this “most qualified tandem” would win in this coming May 2022 elections. Uniteam, in cooperation with BBM 2.0
(USA), held a grand rally last Saturday, April 9 at the Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) in Los Angeles’s Historic Filipinotown. BBM 2.0 (USA) is the U.S.-based counterpart of BBM 2.0, which is an application (app) created by BBM-Sara party national chairman Jonathan “Atan” Bocaling to effectively monitor the number of tandem’s supporters all over the world. This app also includes the list of all volunteer
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Supporters of Vice President Leni Robredo and her running mate, Sen. Francis Pangilinan, attend a campaign rally in San Fernando, Pampanga on Saturday, April 9. Philstar.com photo by Michael Varcas
New York City subway shooting Returning Filipinos Robredo-Pangilinan campaign injures 23, NYPD arrests suspect no longer required draws largest crowd in Pampanga to fill arrival cards PH Consulate advises Filipinos in NYC to be extra vigilant by MoMar
g. visaya
AJPress
AT LEAST 23 people were injured in a shooting on the New York City subway on Tuesday, April 12. NYPD patrol officers in Manhattan’s East Village neighborhood arrested Frank James, 62 on Wednesday afternoon, April 13 officials said. The gunman who was wearing a gas mask released two smoke canisters and then started shooting aboard a subway car on the N train as it approached the 36th Street Station in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park neighborhood during the morning rush hour, authorities said. Five gunshot victims are in critical condition but are expected to survive. At
least a dozen people who escaped gunshot wounds were treated for smoke inhalation and other injuries The shooting happened two days after Mayor Eric Adams celebrated his first 100 days in office. “When I became mayor, I made a simple promise to New Yorkers to ‘Get Stuff Done,’ and we’ve done just that over the last 100 days,” said Mayor Adams. “Since January, my administration has lived up to our promise to New Yorkers, addressing the issues that matter the most to our city’s residents, from fighting the epidemic of gun violence to giving our kids and youth access to better jobs and educational opportunities.” Among the mayor’s points that he touted
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by Pia-lee
brago Philstar.com
at PH airports by Zacarian
sarao
Inquirer.net
MANILA — Returning Filipinos are no longer obligated to fill out and submit disembarkation cards upon arrival at airports in the country, said the Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Tuesday, April 12. “This move is part of BI’s efforts to ease its travel requirements for arriving Filipinos and facilitate their fast and hassle-free entry into their own country,” BI Port Divisions chief Carlos Capulong said in a statement. Capulong explained that the said policy was implemented following the decline in the number of COVID-19 infections in the
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MANILA — Pampanga’s “Manalakaran” rally on Saturday, April 9 drew the biggest crowd for the campaign of presidential candidate Vice President Leni Robredo and her running mate Sen. Francis Pangilinan. Police and organizers estimated the number of attendees at 220,000. The Leni-Kiko supporters who came to Manalakaran People’s Rally in San Fernando City was the largest crowd the ticket has gathered so far, beating the Pasig-Laban rally on March 20. Manalakaran is a Kapampangan word for standing
up together. Robredo said the overwhelming support from the Kapampangans is a clear demonstration of love for the country. “True strength will not come from us, politicians. True strength will not come from money or any machinery. True strength will come from the people, and you showed it here in Pampanga,” Robredo said in her speech in Filipino. The highlight of the night, however, was the surprise endorsement that Pangilinan received during the rally. Left out of some of the major political endorsements that Robredo received, the senator
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APRIL 15-21, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588
From The FronT Page
Several Filipinos in Not too soon to engage in Census 2030 California charged in sham marriage, fraudulent green card operation by Khalil
abdullah Ethnic Media Services
Eleven individuals in total have been charged for illegally circumventing immigration laws from 2016 to 2022 by Klarize
Medenilla AJPress
ELEVEN individuals attached to a California-based “marriage fraud ‘agency’” have been charged for allegedly arranging hundreds of fraudulent marriages to bypass legal immigration channels, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), confirmed in a statement released on Thursday, April 7. At least six of the 11 alleged fraudsters are Filipino nationals and based in Los Angeles: Marcialito “Mars” Benitez, 48; Engilbert “Angel” Ulan, 39; Nino Reyes Valmeo, 45; Harold Poquita, 30; Juanita Pacson, 45; and Felipe Capindo “Pilipi” David, 49. The other individuals attached to the “large-scale” conspiracy who were charged include Peterson Souza, a 34-year-old Brazilian national living in Anaheim; 26-year-old Devon Hammer of Palmdale; 25-year-old Tamia Duckett of Lancaster, Palmdale, and Inglewood; 24-year-old Karina Santos of Lancaster; and 33-year-old Casey Loya of Lancaster and Palmdale. According to the release, Benitez was the alleged leader of the so-called agency, which arranged sham marriages between U.S. citizens and foreign nationals for at least 400 clients between October 2016 and March 2022. According to the DOJ, eight of the alleged conspirators, including Benitez, were arrested on Thursday in California. “This case is a prime example of multiple agencies working as a team to uphold and protect our [country’s] lawful immigration system,”
said Alanna Ow, Director of U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services, San Diego District. “Protecting America’s promise is at the core of what we do and I’m very proud of our Fraud Detection and National Security unit for the steadfast work they do to fulfill the agency’s mission on a daily basis.” The operations were allegedly carried out of physical offices in Los Angeles, where Benitez employed the reported coconspirators as agency staff. According to the DOJ, four of the Filipinos — Pacson, Poquita, Ulan, and Valmeo — falsified and submitted tax returns and other immigration documents for the agency’s clients. Meanwhile, Ducket, Hammer, and Santos, recruited U.S. citizens who were willing to marry the agency’s clients in exchange for money — an upfront fee and monthly fees — from their undocumented spouses. These payments were to keep the U.S. citizen quiet and “cooperative” until their undocumented spouse gained lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, the DOJ said. The agency would then stage weddings in chapels, parks, and other locations and hired officiants. They would stage photoshoots in front of wedding paraphernalia to include in fraudulent immigration petitions that would allegedly be sent to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the federal agency in charge of grinding LPR status. If the U.S. citizen became uncooperative during the interim before LPR status was granted, Benitez and his co-conspirators would
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ARTURO Vargas has been involved in census education and advocacy for over 30 years and says that after each decennial April 1—the day America takes a snapshot of its population—“it gets a little lonely.” The public disengages and community grassroots activists redirect their focus to other pressing concerns. Not so much after the 2020 census. Given the significant undercount—in the millions—of Black and Latino residents, as well as the unexpected overcount of Asian Americans, Census 2020 seems to have sustained the attention of a broader swath of America’s public than any census in recent memory. Amid our highly polarized political landscape, the potential social and economic ramifications of the census results are animating an already contentious public debate. Vargas, executive director for the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Educational Fund, joined a panel of speakers for a recent forum, “Eight Years and Counting: Roadmap to 2030!” Hosted by the Leadership Conference Education Fund and moderated by Meeta
Anand, senior program director for Census and Data Equity, the event focused on lessons learned in the run-up to and during the 2020 census. “To reflect on past work and to start getting geared up for 2030, because the imperative— to ensure that all of our communities are fairly and accurately counted—continues,” Anand stressed. Sen. Alex Padilla, D-CA, echoed those sentiments in pre-recorded video remarks aired during the April 1 program. He ceded that many Americans will likely confess surprise that demands for their engagement in the 2030 census are already underway. As chair of California’s Complete Count Committee for the 2020 census, Padilla had a panoramic view of the unique distortions that affected enumeration efforts. “In the lead-up to the 2020 count, the Census Bureau faced unprecedented, unexpected— and unacceptable barriers to its task,” Padilla exclaimed. Some barriers were circumstantial, or event driven, like bad weather or the impacts of COVID-19 that, among other things, tested the willingness of some community members to open their doors to census takers. Other barriers were overtly political, notably the Trump administration’s attempt— overruled by the Supreme Court—to introduce
a question on citizenship on the census form. That act was generally viewed as a transparent effort to intimidate undocumented residents from responding. However, the constitutional mandate is for the government to count all persons residing in America, regardless of citizenship or legal status. Lower response rates skew accurate representation in the assignment of congressional seats in the reapportionment process. New York’s total population count, for example, was 89 persons shy of gaining another seat in the U.S. House of Representatives under reapportionment formulas. That number, 89, would have been easily exceeded had there been a more accurate count of the state’s Haitian and African immigrant populations, observed Jeri Green, senior advisor with the National Urban League’s 2020 Census Black Roundtable. Instead, the seat New York would have added went to Minnesota. Texas, due its burgeoning population, gained two additional seats in the House of Representatives. Yet, unlike New York which committed money and resources to encourage census participation, Texas “did not plan for the 2020 census,” said Angela Broyles, nor did it provide any state revenue.
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Overseas voting for the 2022 Philippine elections... PAGE 1 mailing addresses. All election paraphernalia, consisting of the Vote Counting Machines (VCM) and sealed ballots, that were shipped by Comelec from Manila have arrived in Los Angeles, the Philippine Consulate General in LA announced. After filling up their ballot, voters can either mail their ballot back to the Consulate using the envelope and stamp provided by the COMELEC, or drop it off at the Consulate during office hours. All ballots must be received by the Consulate before 4:00 a.m. on May 9, 2022 (PDT). Ballots received after this time will be considered “invalid” and not be counted. Ballots received by the Consulate between April 10 and May 9 will be submitted into the VCMs by the Consulate General’s Special Boards of Election Inspectors every Monday and Thursday, beginning at 9:00 a.m. during the voting period until it closes at 4:00 a.m. on May 9, 2022 (PDT), upon which a final
Two individuals fill out test ballots for the 2022 Philippine national elections at the Consulate General in Los Angeles. Photo courtesy of the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles
count of all the ballots shall commence. Accredited poll watchers and members of the media are also invited to observe the biweekly ballot feedings, as well as the final count. Outside of the Philippines, over 1.5 million Filipinos overseas are registered to vote for the
2022 national elections, with nearly 200,000 registered in the United States, according to the COMELEC. The Philippine Consulate General in LA covers Southern California (the counties of Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Imperial, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, Santa
A representative of the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles shows members of the media one of the Vote Counting Machines sent by the Commission on Elections, which will count the votes of registered Filipino voters who submit their mail-in ballots to the Consulate office during the overseas vote period from April 10 to May 9. Photo courtesy of the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles
Barbara, Kern, and San Luis Obispo); Southern Nevada covering the counties of Clark, Lincoln and Nye; and the state of Arizona. n
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SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 15-21, 2022
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Bataan Death March heroes honored through memorial... Returning Filipinos... PAGE 1 This year’s Memorial Death March marks the 80th anniversary of the horrific event, normally held in New Mexico, was organized with COVID-19 considerations and took place on a 14.2 mile route along the Mount Vernon Hiking and Biking Trail beside the Potomac River. The route started and ended at The Marina on Daingerfield Island in Alexandria, VA. Other interested participants who were unable to join the march, likewise, participated in the cause through generous donations by sponsoring a specific number of miles walked by the marching team in remembering and celebrating those who were in the death march. All donations will go to the FilVetREP in support of its efforts to continue raising awareness and obtaining national recognition of the wartime
PAGE 1 country — which he said makes filling out disembarkation cards to the BI no longer necessary for arriving Filipinos. “We required the submission of these disembarkation cards by arriving Filipinos to help the government in its contact tracing efforts at the height of the pandemic. Now that COVID
cases are declining, these cards can now be dispensed with,” Capulong said. The adjustment, according to Capulong, will significantly lessen the requirements and processing time of arriving Filipinos. The policy had also been approved by BI Commissioner Jaime Morente. n
Robredo-Pangilinan...
Members of the Filipino and Filipino-American Community join the Bataan Memorial Death March Photo courtesy of the Philippine Embassy
services of Filipino World War II veterans to the United States and the Philippines. This year’s March was cosponsored by FilVetREP, VFW Post 5471, Filipino Young Professionals (FYP-DC), NaFFAA
Region 2, Bicol Association of Metro DC, Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of DC, and Philippine American Nurses Association of Metro DC (PNAMDC). On April 9, 1942 in the
province of Bataan, Philippines, 76,000 Filipino and American prisoners of war were forcemarched to camps 65 miles away during the early stages of World War II. This became known as the Bataan Death March. n
Several Filipinos in...
MAUNDY THURSDAY MASS. Rev. Fr. Bernard Odfina (at the altar) celebrates Mass at the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto in Barangay Graceville, Sta. Maria Road, San Jose Del Monte City, Bulacan on Maundy Thursday, April 14. The Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto Shrine has been continuing to attract thousands of Catholic devotees, especially during the Holy Week. PNA photo by Ben Briones
PAGE 1 turned emotional when a group of farmers from San Simon municipality appeared on stage to show their support to his candidacy. Over the past weeks, several politicians have formally endorsed Robredo and paired her with other vice presidential bets, notably Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and Senate President Vicente Sotto III. In Dagupan on Friday, April 8 for instance, the senator looked on as the De Venecia family raised the hands of Robredo. The Pampanga rally was attended by Pangilinan’s wife, actress and singer Sharon Cuneta and other celebrities. LOAMCP backs Leni-Kiko tandem Meanwhile, the League of Organic Agriculture Municipalities, Cities and
Provinces of the Philippines (LOAMCP Philippines) has also endorsed the RobredoPangilinan tandem. Rommel Arnado, LOAMCP national president and mayor of Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte, said only the Leni-Kiko ticket can bring prosperity and development to the countryside, adding that among their priorities are good governance and the development of agriculture. The LOAMCP boasts of around 200 municipalities, cities and provinces across the country as members. Arnado called on fellow local officials to support the Leni-Kiko tandem, which he called a new breed of leadership. He described Pangilinan as “a selfless and dedicated public servant who truly stands for the people.” (By Pia-Lee Brago/ Philstar.com) n
immigrants and prospective citizens,” U.S. Attorney Rachael S. Rollins. said. “Their alleged fraudulent behavior makes things harder for the vast majority of immigrants who follow the law and respect our immigration system. Beyond that, by allegedly submitting false applications that claimed domestic abuse, these charged defendants did further harm, this time to real victims and survivors of domestic violence.” Anyone who is charged with marriage fraud is typically PAGE 1 Experts say that one of the reasons for the rise in cases is the fined $250,000 and sentenced to up to five years in prison and spread of BA.2, a subvariant of the original omicron variant that is three years of supervision after more transmissible. New York City Mayor Eric Adams joined the growing list of highrelease. n profile officials testing positive as New York’s tally of COVID-19 cases jumped 42% last week. New York reported 32,114 COVID-19 cases in the week ending Sunday, up from 22,654 new cases the prior week. New Yorkers hospitalized due to COVID-19 also increased 14% last week, reaching city-wide manhunt for the suspect. 2,433 cases. “Kababayan are requested to be vigilant Mayor Adams revealed his COVID-19 positive test with a Twitter and to take the necessary precautions as post on Sunday, April 10. the suspect has not yet been apprehended” “Thankfully, I’m vaccinated and boosted so symptoms are minimal,” and “avoid the 36th Street Station in Sunset Adams tweeted. “We’ve come so far in our fight against #COVID19 Park due to ongoing law enforcement and make no mistake: we are winning.” investigation there,” according to the A statement from the mayor’s press office said that the mayor has advisory. no other symptoms aside from his raspy voice and that he is isolating. In a tweet, Consul General Elmer G. His public events for the rest of the week have been canceled and he Cato said, “The New York City Police is now taking the anti-viral medications offered for free to New York Department has just informed @ City residents. PHinNewYork that there are no Filipinos According to Johns Hopkins University data, a total of 5,037,932 among the at least 29 people who were people in New York have tested positive for the coronavirus since the reported injured in the mass shooting pandemic began. 68,055 people have died from the disease. on the N train in Brooklyn on Tuesday The United States has recorded 80,396,250 people have tested morning.” n positive and 985,504 people have died. n
PAGE 2 then allegedly assist their clients with obtaining green cards under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), falsely claiming that the undocumented individuals had been abused by their American spouses, the indictment read. Among other things, the VAWA — which was enacted in 1994 — has a special provision that allows non-citizen victims of spousal abuse to apply for LPR status without involving the spouses. “These defendants’ alleged exploitation of this system for profit is an affront to our nation’s tradition of welcoming
COVID-19 cases up...
New York City subway shooting injures... PAGE 1 were his nine-point Subway Safety Plan and his his Blueprint to End Gun Violence. The Subway Safety Plan expands response teams and mental health services, adds trained clinicians to connect people with resources, and directs New York City Police Department (NYPD) officers to enforce MTA rules. The blueprint on the other hand refocuses the NYPD on the individuals responsible for the majority of shootings in the city and the sources of guns in the five boroughs, empowers violence interrupters, provides jobs and enrichment programming for atrisk youth, expands mental health care,
and improves collaboration between the city, state, and federal government. “We have not found any live explosive devices, but the suspect in today’s attack detonated smoke bombs to cause havoc. We will not allow New Yorkers to be terrorized even by a single individual,” Mayor Adams said. In an advisory posted on its Facebook page, the Philippine Consulate General said it is monitoring developments related to the reported shooting incident at the 36th Street Subway Station in Brooklyn that left several people wounded. The consulate is asking kababayan to exercise extreme caution in view of the
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APRIL 15-21, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588
CA museum launches digital archive on Filipino pioneers
A sea of red took over the Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) building in Los Angeles’ Historic Filipinotown as over 300 Fil-Am supporters of Bongbong Marcos and Sara Duterte convened for a rally on Saturday, April 9. AJPress photo by Donnabelle Gatdula-Arevalo
Fil-Am supporters flock to HiFi... PAGE 1 campaign managers who are tasked to administer and oversee the BBM 2.0 app in their respective jurisdictions. Tancredo Guray Jr., BBM 2.0 (USA) president for California, told the Asian Journal at the group’s last rally in the Southern California leg, that all of their members are rooting for Bongbong Marcos and DuterteCarpio to take the next top two posts of the Philippines. “We believe that he is the most qualified and more experienced (among all the other presidential candidates) being able to serve the government as governor, congressman, and senator. To us, he’s the right person to lead our country,” Guray, who has always been an avid supporter ever since BBM ran for the vice presidency in 2016, said. According to Guray, with Marcos and Duterte-Carpio’s leadership, there would also be a continuity of programs of the present administration. “I also believe that BBM will continue the programs of President (Rodrigo) Duterte. We need to continue carrying out all these good programs and reforms of President Duterte,” Guray said. Guray said they have participated in more than 10 rallies and caravans for the Uniteam. To date, the BBM 2.0 (USA) has members in California, Las Vegas, New York, Florida, and other U.S. states. BBM 2.0 (USA) vice president for California Philip Jaramilla, for his part, believed that Marcos’ commitment to enhancing measures that would ease up doing business in the Philippines and restore investors’ confidence,
has made him and his family want to vote for Marcos. Jaramilla, who owns a biotechnology and pharmaceutical components and fabrication manufacturing company, Fluid Line Technology, said there are a lot of investors who would want to do business in the Philippines but are wary about several business obstacles such as higher taxes, corruption, peace and order, and lack of efficient supply of electricity and water. “We need a leader who would address all of these concerns in the business sector,” Jamarilla said, noting that BBM reportedly has the potential to do great in implementing key reforms in the business industry. In an earlier statement issued in reaction to the latest World Bank’s Doing Business report in 2020 where the Philippines ranked 95th, an improvement from the previous rank of 124th in 2019, Marcos was quoted as saying that “jumpstarting our economy would be a top priority for us, should we be given the mandate by the people in this year’s elections.” “It only means that businesses will need to focus on being efficient. The government can help by instituting policies that will make it easier for them to do this,” Marcos earlier said. Husband and wife Ron and Jocelyn Fernando, in an interview during the rally, said they never doubted BBM’s capability to “bring greatness back to the Philippines.” Ron works at Sync Brokerage, a boutique real estate firm with offices in Los Angeles and Miami, specializing in luxury and commercial real estate
markets. “Bongbong Marcos comes from the Marcos legend, and the (Marcos) family when it comes to politics, they are really good. I think, moving forward the Philippines will be in good shape under his helm if he wins this election,” Ron Fernando said. “Sara Duterte, with her background in Davao, I’m sure she would be a good support for Bongbong,” Fernando opined. In a video message played during the rally, Marcos thanked all his supporters in Southern California. “I would like to congratulate you and thank you for the efforts that you have done to help our campaign and to continue to spread the message of unity that is the message of our campaign. Thank you for all that you have done and until we succeed in victory,” Marcos said. Actress Jobelle Salvador, who flew in from Las Vegas, attended the rally. The rally was also done in partnership with Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) under its Philippine coordinator and former congresswoman Maite Defensor. Other rally coordinators are Uniteam overall coordinator for USA/Canada Chona Verona Lopez Galvez; BBM 2.0 (USA) vice president for Media Affairs Larry Pelayo; and Barbie Sanchez and Luzviminda Marcos, Marcos’ close relatives who are based in California. Last March, Historic Filipinotown was the site of a pink caravan for Fil-Am supporters of Vice President Leni Robredo and Sen. Kiko Pangilinan’s bid for the presidency and vice presidency of the Philippines. n
SANTA CRUZ — A digital archive on the lives of Filipino pioneers in California’s agricultural Pajaro Valley was launched April 9 at this city’s Museum of Art and History. The “Watsonville Is in the Heart Digital Archive” preserves documents on the first wave of Filipino immigrants (the Manong generation) that came to America during the 1920s and 1930s as farm workers. ” Filipinos who came in the 1920’s struggled quite a bit and had to suffer a lot of issues with racism,” said Steve McKay, University of California Santa Cruz faculty co-organizer of the “Watsonville is in the Heart” research initiative. Although the archive is still in its developmental stage, the launching was meant to encourage contributors to its collection. The archive includes information on the 1930’s Anti-Filipino Race Riots in Watsonville, when Filipino farm workers were violently attacked by the local residents who opposed immigration and socializing between Filipino
men and white women. “Filipinos have been in Watsonville since that time, but today there isn’t a single historical marker that Filipinos have played a role in Watsonville,” said McKay. Included in the archive are photos, family heirlooms, handwritten letters, newspaper clippings and oral histories from the descendants of the farm workers. It is a joint initiative of The
Tobera Project and UCSC “Watsonville is in the Heart” research initiative. Fermin Tobera was the Filipino farm workers who was killed during the Watsonville anti-Filipino race riots. The project plans to make the archive a part of the curriculum for the Pajaro Valley School District. A large exhibit on Filipinos in Pajaro Valley will held at the Museum of Art and Hisory in 2024. (Inquirer.net) n
MORIONES GROUPIE. A group of motorbike riders poses for a souvenir photo with the big statue of Morion and other “centurions” at the Gasan Municipal grounds along Gomez Street in Gasan, Marinduque on Maundy Thursday, April 14. More tourists have arrived for the Moriones Festival, which has inspired the creation of other festivals in the Philippines where cultural practices are turned into street festivals. PNA photo by Joey O. Razon
Probe absentee voting mess... PAGE 1 situation. Sen. Imee Marcos, chair of the Senate committee on electoral reforms, suggested that the Comelec extend voting hours at Philippine embassies and consulates to ensure that OFWs are able to cast their votes. The Comelec earlier admitted that the start of the monthlong overseas absentee voting in five Philippine foreign posts was delayed due to problems in the shipping of election materials. These are the Philippine embassies in Wellington, New Zealand; Islamabad, Pakistan, and Dili, Timor-Leste, as well as in the Philippine consulates general in Milan, Italy, and in New York. On Monday, however, Election Commissioner Marlon Casquejo, who is in charge of overseas voting, said these “logistical issues” would be resolved soon. He said five more vote-counting machines (VCM) would be deployed to the consulate in Hong Kong to bring the total number of machines to 10 to accommodate the huge turnout there. He said VCMs would arrive soon in the consulates in New York, Wellington, and Milan, although the ballots have already been sent by post to the registered voters. The election materials for 564 voters registered with the embassy in Islamabad held up by Pakistan customs were expected to be released the same day, according to Casquejo. He said the election materials for the embassy in Timor-Leste with 706 voters would be deployed upon the next flight availability, which was expected on Thursday, April 14. Also on Monday, April 11 Philippine Consul General in New York Elmer Cato said boxes containing election paraphernalia had arrived in Memphis, Tennessee, from Alaska. Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Gary Domingo also said in a Twitter post that boxes containing ballots for the elections had arrived at the Philippine Embassy in Wellington. Problems Meanwhile, Migrante International lamented that out of the 93,000 registered voters in Hong Kong, only 35,000 to 40,000 might be able to vote if the number of VCMs remained at five.
It pointed out that most OFWs could vote only on Sundays. During the first day of overseas absentee voting on Sunday, only 3,285 OFWs were able to cast their votes compared to 6,000 to 7,000 who were accommodated in one Sunday during previous elections when there were 10 VCMs in use, the group said. In Dubai, Migrante said there were long lines of voters waiting two and a half to five hours to vote because of the small polling precinct at the Dubai consulate. In Saudi Arabia, no indelible ink was available after voting, Migrante said, citing reports to the group. Migrante said they also received reports of delays in ballot distribution in Japan and in Bologna and Milan, Italy. “Voters who went to their consulates in person were told ballots have not arrived yet,” the group said. Senator Marcos said her office also received complaints of disorder in the conduct of overseas voting in Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom. The Philippine Embassy in Singapore on Monday, likewise, confirmed an incident wherein a “spoiled” ballot was “inadvertently and unintentionally” given to a voter. The embassy stressed that it was an isolated incident. Election Commissioner George Garcia downplayed claims that some overseas voters received pre-shaded ballots at the start of the overseas voting. “Don’t believe claims of pre-shading (of ballots). It’s very easy to find out if that’s true,” Garcia said in a media briefing at the Comelec headquarters on Monday. Garcia also dismissed claims that exit polls conducted in Hong Kong showed that a certain candidate was leading. He said the Comelec could not ban exit polls since these have been upheld by the Supreme Court. “But if the exit polls will undermine the integrity of the entire process, then that will be subject to investigation” of the Comelec task force against fake news, said Garcia, who heads the task force. n
Not too soon to engage in... PAGE 2 Broyles worked to promote the 2020 census and is now the executive director of Texas Census 2030, a merger of two organizations to form what she characterized as a permanent Texas complete count committee, a private version of Padilla’s statefunded initiative in California. She explained that, in lieu of state dollars and support for the census, the private and philanthropic sectors in Texas need to step up their commitments to yield a more
complete count. Without more robust participation in the census, “we realized we were potentially hurting the economic prosperity and growth of our state.” Participants and presenters during the forum included longserving U.S. Census Bureau officials as well as leaders from community-based organizations. Stacey Carless, executive director of the NC Counts Coalition, explained how her member organizations transitioned from census advocacy to promoting vaccine
equity as COVID-19 began to take hold in North Carolina. “It was natural fit,” Carless said, “because of the same challenges we saw in census 2020, where there was mistrust and distrust of government.” Maintaining the continuity of a coalition’s relationships is critical to effective civic engagement advocacy, she contended. “We don’t want to wait every 10 years to talk about census and redistricting and voting. We want to talk about all three of them 365 days a year.” n
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SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 15-21, 2022
Dateline PhiliPPines
61 years since Gagarin flight, space tech and research within reach for Filipinos by AngelicA
Y. YAng
Philstar.com
MANILA — Space research and development is becoming more affordable for small countries, and for a developing country like the Philippines, it is a dream that has turned into reality. Six years ago, the country’s first microsatellite, Diwata-1, which Filipino and Japanese scientists and engineers worked on, was launched into space from the International Space Station. The 50-kg microsatellite would train its cameras back to Earth, and collect data for disaster response and management, and environment assessment. The country now has six small satellites in space. Three more are under development, with the Multispectral Unit for Land Assessment Satellite (MULA) being the country’s first commercial-grade satellite of its kind. Filipinos are not strangers to space, according to Dr. Rogel Mari Sese, the chair of the Aerospace Engineering Department at Ateneo de Davao University. In the latter part of the 1800s, the country had the Observatorio Meteorologico de Manila, now known as Manila Observatory, which first conducted activities in weather observation and then later ventured into studies related to astronomy, he told Philstar. com. It was only a decade ago, however, that the Philippine government started to recognize the importance of space-related activities because of two major events. “The first one was in 2012 during the incident with Scarborough Shoal and when everything else is happening in West Philippine Sea,” Sese explained, adding that the absence of satellite imagery is among the reasons the country is having problems securing its waters. “The second one, in 2013, was Typhoon Yolanda, which devastated the whole Central Visayas, Samar, Leyte, and Tacloban,” he added. Sese actively advocated for
This photo posted on the Philippine Space Agency Facebook page shows Diwata-1, the first Philippine microsatellite, being released into orbit from the International Space Station. Photo courtesy of JAXA / NASA through STAMINA4Space
the passage of Republic Act 11363 or the Philippine Space Act that established the national space agency — which was later on signed by President Rodrigo Duterte in 2019. Sese said space research and development is now a possibility even for countries with smaller GDPs compared to the Philippines, like Luxembourg and New Zealand, which were already able to establish their own space agencies. Space is not a ‘far-away’ notion On April 12, the world celebrated the International Day of Human Space Flight. Sixty-one years ago, Russian cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin flew to space, a historic moment which paved the way for space exploration. The event marked the beginning of the space era, according to the United Nations. “When people think of space, they think of it as a very far-away notion...that it’s not relevant to our daily lives, but the reality is, the technologies and applications from space are finding their way into our daily lives through this global space economy, through the many services and products that we come to depend on,” PhilSA Director General Joel Marciano told Philstar.com. For him, participating in the space economy is a national
imperative since it contributes to the local economy and helps develop a highly-skilled workforce. PhilSA is currently developing the country’s fledgling space sector — both in the upstream and downstream segments. The upstream segment refers to the manufacture and launch of objects into space like satellites, rovers, space probes and other space crafts into orbit. Meanwhile, the downstream segment uses these projects to deliver products and services for scientific use on Earth. The PhilSA’s main thrust right now is to ramp up public awareness and appreciation of space-related activities and projects, Marciano said. On its website, PhilSA said its mission is to “promote a robust Philippine space ecosystem and help create value in space for and from Fillipinos and for the world.” Having a space agency, such as the PhilSA, opens doors to more opportunities for local scientists, Joshuel Barroso, the chief scholastic officer of the University of the Philippines Los Banos (UPLB) Astronomical Society, said. In 2013, UNESCO reported that there were only 189 researchers per 1 million people in the Philippines, which was far from
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5
Starfleet Innotech launches digital ads on Nasdaq building and across Times Square, New York City
“WE’RE thrilled to be telling this story through our placements at Times Square, signaling to our team, our business ecosystem, and our community that Starfleet is blasting off.” Starfleet Innotech, Inc. (OTC Pink: SFIO) (“SFIO” or “The “Company”) this week launched a digital campaign promoting the company and its projects through electronic billboard placements on the Nasdaq Building and on select street-level screens across Times Square in New York City. These digital placements complement SFIO’s ongoing expansion plans, in collaboration with media partner FMW Media. The 15- and 30-second ads highlight the conglomerate’s core divisions, key businesses, and growth roadmap. Starfleet Innotech, Inc. is a global investment holding company focused on innovation through disruptive collaborations across its three key industries: Food and Beverage (F&B), Real Estate, and Technology. With a strong presence across New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and the Philippines, SFIO makes strategic investments in high-growth businesses, building synergies across its diverse portfolio to provide maximum shareholder value. The ads communicate SFIO’s core strategy of cross-divisional collaborations. In broad strokes: • SFIO strategically enters new markets through its F&B businesses, led by their flagship brand, Epiphany Cafe. • They fund this growth through high-yield, wellness tourism real estate development projects, spearheaded by Moraya, the premier real estate brand for technology-driven and wellness-oriented communities. • They augment operations and unlock new opportunities through its technology division, LNS+. • And supporting this ecosystem are backbone businesses ranging from education to accounting, digital marketing, architecture and engineering, website development, and hosting. SFIO’s digital ads will soon be running on rotation above the entrance to the Nasdaq building on 4 Times Square, New York City. Currently, pedestrians will already see SFIO’s ads on street-level digital signage, the LinkNYC hubs, along surrounding high-traffic areas.
“Thanks to the fantastic team of leaders we’ve gathered to lead SFIO, our community has grown tremendously over the past year,” said SFIO CEO Jeths Lacson. “Today SFIO is truly a global company with teams innovating across markets and industries. While growth is our primary focus over the next few years, our main goal has always been to create pathways to the global stage—such that the truly worldclass business leaders we have across our key markets find the global opportunities they deserve, and are equipped with the knowledge, resources, and community that they need to build the futures of their industries. That is our mission at SFIO. That is our journey.” “Here at the financial heart of the world, we’re waving our banner for all hypergrowth businesses. In terms of timing, this coincides perfectly with the work we’ve been doing to bolster our presence in the United States,” he added. “We’re thrilled to be telling this story through our placements at Times Square, signaling to our team, our business ecosystem, and our community that Starfleet is blasting off.” Chief Operating Officer Mark Epifanio recently shared that SFIO’s F&B division will soon be selling its Gorgeous Coffeebrand instant coffee and Epiphany Manuka honey products in the United States through partner platforms like Amazon. As the digital ads on Times Square roll, SFIO is laying the groundwork for a brick-and-mortar entry into the US market in the near future, beginning with its flagship F&B business, Epiphany Cafe. (Advertising Supplement)
6
OpiniOn & Features
APRIL 15-21, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL
OpiniOn
Bracing for disasters JUST when people thought it was safe to travel again for the Holy Week break after two years of COVID lockdowns, the first tropical cyclone of the year hammered parts of the Visayas and Mindanao. As of late Monday afternoon, April 11, at least 22 people were reported killed in landslides and floods spawned by Tropical Depression Agaton in Baybay, Leyte, with three more fatalities reported in Monkayo, Davao de Oro and in Cateel, Davao Oriental. Thousands of ship passengers were stranded in different ports. Another cyclone was spotted on Monday afternoon approaching Mindanao, prompting Signal No. 2 to be hoisted over Surigao del Sur. Tropical Storm Basyang was expected to make landfall in Caraga region on Tuesday, April 12. The two cyclones hitting in the peak of summer provide a timely reminder about the need to prepare for this year’s typhoon season. People living in areas at high risk for landslides and torrential flooding must be prepared for rapid evacuation. This is not as simple as it sounds especially in small-scale mining areas. Sufficient facilities particularly for evacuation
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Features
and relief efforts must be in place to prevent COVID infection and outbreaks of other diseases. But local governments, which are on the front lines of disaster response, are currently distracted by the election campaign. As Agaton prepared to exit and Basyang approached on Monday, over 13,000 people affected by heavy rainfall, landslides and torrential flooding were housed in 71 evacuation centers in the Visayas and Mindanao, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. The evacuation centers are mostly in school compounds. With face-to-face classes expected to resume in the next school year, and with several school facilities still being used for COVID vaccination, there will be fewer areas available to house evacuees during typhoons this year. For evacuation centers without modular tents, Philstar.com photo there must be dividers between families. Water and sanitation facilities must be adequate. Masking, distancing and hand hygiene must be preparedness and response will not be neglected strictly enforced for all ages. even as the country is preoccupied with the Authorities must ensure that disaster elections and upcoming change of leadership.
Editorial
‘Bakit si Leni?’ She is the best candidate for president in this defining moment in our nation’s history and identity
The Fil-Am Perspective Gel SantoS-ReloS LENI Robredo’s humble beginnings would not give us a clue that she would one day be running for president. The eldest daughter of a Regional Trial Court judge and a teacher in Naga did not come from a rich family nor a political dynasty, nor from showbiz as many people in politics do. She and her siblings were raised in a simple frugal family that valued faith, hard work, education, integrity and service as more important than earthly riches. These were the core values that guided Leni Robredo all her life, that made her dreamt of being a lawyer like her esteemed father. And if you believe in God’s divine plan, this serendipitous meeting and convergence of the paths of Leni and Jesse Robredo in a job she took just before going to law school materialized because they both, knowingly or unknowingly, saw themselves in each other — the better self they want to be in fulfillment of their sense of purpose. Leni learned much about good and honest governance from Jesse when he was elected Mayor of Naga, while Jesse said Leni was his conscience who kept him grounded and true to his calling. This was a synergy of forces of two people driven by service for others instead of the feeling of entitlement. It was through the difficulties and challenges of their journey together that helped made Leni who she is. Because Jesse was not corrupt, Leni had to work part-time while being a mayor’s wife and a mother to help pay for her tuition because Jesse’s meager salary wouldn’t be enough to pay for the needs of their growing family. With her determination and tenacity, she obtained her law
Commentary
COVID has made disaster response riskier and more complicated. Authorities must be up to the task. (Philstar.com)
degree and passed the bar exams after two attempts. It was through this challenging journey that made her realize how blessed she had been to fulfill her dream to be a lawyer and keep the promise she and Jesse gave to her parents before they received their blessing for their marriage. This realization and sense of gratitude sealed Leni’s decision to use her profession not to enrich herself but instead, use her being an attorney to serve the needy and the less privileged. She did this by representing them as their lawyer working for the Public Attorney’s Office and a non-government organization to inspire and lead other young attorneys to help the poor in remote areas of the Bicol Region have access to lawyers. She also founded an NGO that empowered women to be entrepreneurs by giving them access to training and funding to help fulfill their dreams for themselves, their families and community. Jesse Robredo entered the national stage when he was appointed Secretary of Interior and Local Government under the Noynoy Aquino Administration in 2010. However, his life was cut short by a plane crash in 2012. Mourning this sudden loss while carrying the load of raising their three daughters as a single parent, Leni was also called to continue the legacy of good and honest governance Jesse left behind, amid the grip of corrupt political practices of a family dynasty in their province. Leni Robredo ran and won a seat in Congress to represent the Third District of Camarines Sur. Her committee leadership and membership were in congruence with her lifelong advocacies: she was Vice Chairman of two committees: Committee on Good Governance and Public Accountability, and Committee
on Revision of Laws. She was also part of the Committee of Appropriations; Bicol Recovery and Economic Development; Climate Change; Human Rights; Land Use; Local Government; People’s Participation; Rural Development; Suffrage and Electoral Reforms; Welfare of Children; and Women and Gender Equality. She also authored and passed bills that mandates transparency and accountability in government, empowered the youth and women, teachers, and voters, as well as improved access of her constituents to better infrastructure, health care, education and justice. Yet in 2016, she was called to serve not only her constituents in Bicol but the Filipinos all over the nation during the time that Bongbong Marcos, the son of the dictator who we ousted via the 1986 People Power, wanted to go back to power as Vice President. Leni won the VP race and the Supreme Court affirmed the legitimacy of her victory three times when Bongbong Marcos accused her of cheating and demanded for recount three times, only to lose over and over again to Leni. Had Leni not won, it would have been a DuterteMarcos government. Early on in the Duterte Administration, Leni fulfilled her constitutional duty of checks and balances, calling out Duterte for extrajudicial killings in his war on drugs. This was easily deemed as “paninira” by Duterte that has stoked his vindictive nature. He did not appoint Leni to any cabinet position, and in spite, challenged her to take charge of the war on drugs which she accepted. As her bio stated, Leni “relentlessly sought to steer the anti-illegal drug campaign to a more holistic, data-driven, and humane approach, believing that the fight against illegal drugs is
not only the fight of government, but of every community and every Filipino. Leni went on to release a report, which detailed the current state of the anti-illegal drug campaign, and the various gaps that need to be filled and proposed solutions to these”. As Leni asked for access to information pertaining to the big fish she had to run after, Duterte fired her from that job after 18 days, saying he did not trust Leni. Leni did not wait for any more appointments from Duterte to serve the people for the position she was elected to. With a very limited budget, her bio said: “Leni led the crafting of its flagship anti-poverty program, Angat Buhay – an endeavor inspired by six key advocacy areas; namely, food security and nutrition, women empowerment, education, healthcare, rural development, and housing. It has reached out to poor communities around the country, through the generosity of partnerorganizations and individuals, most of whom are from the private sector.” Yes, that was the start of the “Angat Buhay Lahat’ we have been hearing about these days. Leni was also the ever-present proactive leader who helped our kababayans navigate our way through the coronavirus pandemic. Her bio stated that “despite limited resources, the Office of the Vice President launched many initiatives, through the help of many partners and donors, aimed at filling in the gaps found in terms of supporting frontliners and communities in need during this time—from providing PPE sets, locally produced protective suits, and medical supplies to frontliners across all regions of the Philippines; to providing free shuttle service and dormitories for frontliners in Metro Manila”.
The Office of the Vice President, as stated in her bio, went on to “distribute relief packs, hot meals, and other assistance to communities; helping locally stranded individuals return to their respective provinces; giving market vendors and tricycle drivers a platform to boost their livelihood anew through community marts; giving livelihood opportunities and assistance to individuals, communities, and sectors who lost their jobs and sources of income; providing distance learning support for students, teachers, and their families; promoting mass testing and vaccination efforts; and providing free medical teleconsultation services to patients, among others”. Leni and her team were also ever-present and proactive during disasters and tragedies. She was among the “first in government to visit hard-hit areas, including those in the Bicol Region and the provinces of Isabela and Cagayan. Fostering her office’s culture of swift and strategic response, alongside the Filipino Bayanihan spirit, the OVP was able to bring relief assistance to many affected communities and, eventually, also start rehabilitation efforts through the BAHAYanihan housing initiative”. Leni has said in interviews before that she had no plans of running for the presidency. This had to change when Bongbong Marcos announced he was running for president. Leni had a long talk with her daughters who wished they would just all live a normal life. “Paano na ang sinimulan ni Papa,” was Leni’s response, thinking of the legacy of her husband, and the calling in her own life that was begging to be heeded. She knew she was able to beat Bongbong in 2016. She
knew she had to step in faith and do what she can to save our democracy from the Marcos family’s culture of corruption and impunity. And so VP Leni Robredo ran for president and selected Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan to be her vice president. Both of them have lived their lives as true public servants with no history of corruption and moral turpitude. In fact, the Commission on Audit has given the OVP “an unqualified opinion — considered the highest rating from state auditors — for its financial reports in 2018, 2019, and 2020”. This is important because Leni and Kiko are running on the promise of transforming the corruption-plagued government into “gobyernong tapat”, and leadership by example is of paramount importance to deliver on this promise -- Transparency, accountability and participative government of the people, by the people for the people. Leni and Kiko know they need to win back the trust of the people in the government to empower them and help bring out the best in them, reminding us citizens that we all are the answers to our prayers for as long as we all work together for the greater good, abiding by the rule of law, lifting each other up, especially the poor and the marginalized people of society. The Robredo-Pangilinan team offers a platform that will give opportunities to all Filipinos to uplift our families from poverty through health care, education, and equal opportunities for all, and not just for the rich and well connected. Leni would tell her supporters in campaign rallies that should she be given the privilege of serving them as President, to not be afraid to speak up and call her
u PAGE 7
Legal sports betting in California would threaten cardroom employees
Casino would transform my life and open up a new world of possibilities for my children and me. naRy Chin But now I hear that the road CaRdRoom employee to opportunity paved for me and countless others by cardrooms WHEN I first immigrated could be eliminated under a to the United States from ballot initiative coming this Cambodia in 1984, I had little November that would expand education, did not know English sports betting in California at and had very few job prospects the expense of workplaces and that offered any type of a future communities like mine. My life before the cardroom for me or for my growing family. I heard that a cardroom was was difficult. I had life problems opening in the City of Hawaiian and was out of a job. I was Gardens that offered good pay getting kicked out of place after and opportunities to grow and place because I could not afford needed workers. I showed up rent, forcing my family to keep to apply in person thinking only moving. I was a single mom of that I needed a paycheck. Little four with broken English. I had did I know that the Gardens nowhere to turn to. Life before
the cardroom was very bad for me and my kids, and I don’t want to go back. It was hard for me to make good money to support my family the way that I do now in the cardroom club. The only time I escaped from all of that is having a cardroom to work at. The cardroom has changed not just my life but also my family’s. Today, I don’t have to worry that one day I will be kicked out of my home. I do not want to go back to the days of waking up and stressing out that I do not have a job to go to. My first job in the cardroom was working in food service. Now, 24 years later, I am a dealer – a lucrative career path that provides enough money
for me as a single parent of four children to be the sole breadwinner and allow my children to be children, without them having to pick up work to help with expenses. This is a generational shift from when I was growing up, and is a gift of my employment at the cardroom. I did not learn English in school, I learned English working at the cardroom. My coworkers at the cardroom helped me to apply for citizenship and navigate my children’s schooling. Today, I am proud to be a citizen of the United States of America, all because of the cardroom. I remember when the neighborhood was unsafe, people would get beat up. But
I have been here and seen how much the cardrooms have given to the community, to schools, to improving the streets. I look out the window and now suddenly there are palm trees. The city never had those before. This is not just my experience, but hundreds if not thousands of workers from immigrant backgrounds like me have been able to build better futures and a brighter life through our jobs at the cardrooms. My prayer for my daughter is for her to work in the cardroom when she turns 21, because I know it will give her a life of financial independence. My cardroom is my family. When my life was completely down, with nowhere to turn,
I had the cardroom to come to. I needed a friend more than anything. The cardroom worked with me to overcome life challenges and continued to give me a chance when other places may have let me go. I call the cardroom my home because that is what it feels like. I urge all Californians and especially immigrant communities of color to stand with workers and reject the qualified tribal gaming measure this November. It is a direct attack on our futures. *** 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.
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SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 15-21, 2022
61 years since Gagarin flight, space tech... PAGE 5 the standard of at least 380 researchers per million. Barroso, who is an undergraduate student taking up Applied Physics at UPLB, said that Filipino scientists are “underappreciated”, and that they deserve better. “The large disparity in understanding space science is largely affected by people’s misconceptions and people’s underappreciation of scientists so we take stride in promoting space science and astronomy as a valid sector in education [and as something that] branches out to an appreciation of the sciences in a larger picture,” he told Philstar.com. ‘Improving the quality of life’ The space program covers all upstream and downstream activities as well as the users of all these products, according to the PhilSA. Such a program must always look for ways where space science and technology can contribute and improve the quality of life, Ateneo de Davao’s Sese said. “It’s really more about bringing the benefits of space so that ordinary Filipino can experience it and appreciate it.” While the country’s space program is small compared to the rest of the Philippine government’s operations, it is appropriate for its size as it seeks to solve problems on the ground, according to Pecier Decierdo, a science communicator at The Mind Museum, a science museum in Taguig City. “They’re dipping their toes in space by sending these Filipino-made microsatellites and nanosatellites with the goal of developing the know-how of our engineers and scientists here in the country in making and using space technology in order to solve ground-based problems like monitoring the health of our forests, our territorial integrity, and looking at the effects or impacts of natural hazards,” he told Philstar.com. Decierdo said the country is making do with space technologies that are small, targeted and efficient, which, in turn, contribute to improving research efforts. The Mind Museum, which features several exhibits related to space science as well as the country’s satellites, has partnered with the Science department’s Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development to popularize astronomy. Benefits of space research If all satellites orbiting the Earth are switched off, the navigation app Waze, and food delivery services
will cease to work. A portion of the internet will also stop working, PhilSA’s Marciano said. “So many conveniences that we have now also result from mankind’s venture into space [such as] wireless headsets that we use now. [American astronaut] Neil Armstrong used one when he walked on the surface of the moon to utter those immortal words,” Marciano said. “The temperature sensors that you encounter at the entrance of establishments where you just hold your palm up like that and it measures your temperature — it uses the same principle as what they used to measure the temperature of planets and stars,” he added. According to him, it is important to have the foresight to invest in an idea that may benefit humanity in the future. For The Mind Museum’s Decierdo, the presence of a space program has a sociological impact in the local scientific community, adding that “it is already starting to encourage more talent to stay here in the Philippines for longer.” Julius Sempio, one of the scientists who worked on the Diwata-1 satellite, believes that having a space program can help alleviate poverty and spur economic growth. “Space tech can be of great help to us in improving our disaster response. In pursuing space activities, we might have time to discover technologies which consumers can use...like Wi-Fi, [which was] borne out of a failed space tech project that wanted to study blackholes,” he told Philstar.com in Filipino. Sese — who is now the project head of ACCESS Mindanao, a research and advocacy program of Ateneo de Davao University that seeks to improve Wi-Fi access in remote areas in the southern Philippines — has witnessed firsthand how space technology can help communities. He and his team were able to install a satellite network across 14 schools, hospitals, business and communities in Mindanao in just two years since the project’s launch. The project was able to improve internet access in isolated places such as Tawi-Tawi, Cotabato City and Lake Sebu, among others. “Space technology doesn’t need to be far out and out of this world. Well, it technically [involves technologies that travel] out of this world, but it doesn’t have to be something high-level which ordinary Filipinos cannot appreciate,” he said in Filipino. n
‘Bakit si Leni?’ She is the best candidate... PAGE 6 out if she has not been governing according to what she promised, according to the oath she would be taking as president, without fear of retaliation. In this campaign we have seen Leni and Kiko inspire hope in people, bring out volunteerism and the mindset of how we all can contribute according to our gifts and talents to help each other and lift each other up for the good of the country. “Gobyernong tapat”. This elusive dream will be a reality. We have the best candidates,
the best public servants that our country needs so badly to help transform not only the government but us, the Filipino people, to be the citizens who deserve the government we have been praying for. We will use the power of our vote to make Leni Robredo and Kiko Pangilinan lead us toward a brighter, better, stronger Philippines. With the victory of Leni and Kiko in the polls on May 9, the Philippines wins. The Filipinos win. Indeed,” kulay rosas ang bukas”. ***
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
*** Gel Santos Relos has been in news, talk, public service and educational broadcasting since 1989. She was a news anchor, TV host and radio commentator and public service host for ABS- CBN and DZMM. She is now working on her advocacies independently, serving the Filipino audience using different media platforms. You may contact her through email at gelrelos@ icloud.com, or send her a message via Facebook at Facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos. Also on Twitter, Instagram: Gel Santos Relos
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APRIL 15-21, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588
LEGAL SERVICES CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00011463-CU-PT-CTL
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Phra Chan Pheng Sirisouk filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Phra Chan Pheng Sirisouk to Phra C. Surisouk. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 05/11/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. C-61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 28, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 922 04/08, 04/15, 04/22, and 04/29/2022. ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD#922
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9007579
Janitor Castillo located at 7237 Central Ave., Lemon Grove, CA 91945. Registrant: a. Alejandro Castillo, 7237 Central Ave., Lemon Grove, CA 91945. b. Veronica Castillo, 7237 Central Ave., Lemon Grove, CA 91945. This business is conducted by Married Couple. REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME(S) AS OF 08/01/2002. Signature Alejandro Castillo. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/30/2022. AJ 924 04/08, 04/15, 04/22, and 04/29/2022. AJSD#924
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006944
Bath Tec Refinishers located at 1011 Beyer Way #93, San Diego, CA 92154. Registrant: Luis David Guerrero, 1011 Beyer Way #93, San Diego, CA 92154. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVED . Signature Luis David Guerrero. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/23/2022. AJ 928 04/08, 04/15, 04/22, 04/29/2022.
AJSD#928
LEGAL SERVICES
CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00010237-CU-PT-CTL
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Nghi Nguyen Kha Phan filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Nghi Nguyen Kha Phan to Mia Phan. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 05/18/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. C-61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: APR. 05, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 927 04/08, 04/15, 04/22, and 04/29/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD#927
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006005
Camille Rae Real Estate located at 645 Duncan Ranch Rd., Chula Vista, CA 91914. Registrant: Camille Rae Mayor De Guzman, 645 Duncan Ranch Rd., Chula Vista, CA 91914. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVED . Signature: Camille Rae Mayor De Guzman. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/10/2022. AJ 925 04/08, 04/15, 04/22, 04/29/2022
AJSD#925
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9007913
Mercy’s Hair Salon located at 2720 E. Plaza Blvd., Suite 1, National City, CA 91950. Registrant: Mercedes Baugh, 6927 Bullock Drive, San Diego, CA 92114. This business is conducted by Married Couple. REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME(S) AS OF 08/01/2002. Signature Mercedes Baugh. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/05/2022. AJ 929 04/08, 04/15, 04/22, and 04/29/2022. AJSD#929
CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00012029-CU-PT-CTL
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner James Kenneth Pittman AKA James Kenneth Worthy filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. James Kenneth Pittman AKA James Kenneth Worthy to James Kenneth Worthy. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 05/17/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. C-61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: APR. 01, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 930 04/15, 04/22, 04/29, and 05/06/2022. ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.
AJSD #930
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9007977
Chan Dara Thai Cafe located at 330 W. Felicita Ave., C7-C9, Escondido, CA 92025. Registrant: Eddy Lane, 7401 Tweed St., Lemon Grove, CA 91945. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME(S) AS OF 04/05/2022. Signature Eddy Lane. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/05/2022. AJ 926 04/08, 04/15, 04/22, and 04/29/2022.
AJSD#926
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9007012
a. Chesrown Automotive Sales Leasing located at 3040 Clairemont Drive Build. A-3, San Diego, CA 92117. b. Chesrown Auto Transport located at 3040 Clairemont Drive Build. A-3, San Diego, CA 92117. c. Chesrown Financial located at 3040 Clairemont Drive Build. A-3, San Diego, CA 92117. d. Chesrown Rent A Car located at 3040 Clairemont Drive Build. A-3, San Diego, CA 92117. Registrant: Chesrown Automotive Group, 5755 Oberline Drive, STE 30, San Diego, CA 92121. This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 10/08/2016. Signature: Jeffrey James Chesrown. Statement filed with Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/24/2022. AJ 932 04/15, 04/22, 04/29, and 05/06/2022. AJSD#932
CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00013367-CU-PT-CTL
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Brittany Mitchell and Mathew Mitchell on behalf of a minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Brittany Ciulla Mitchell to Mia Ciulla Mitchell. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 05/31/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 25 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego North County Division 325 S. Melrose Dr. Vista, CA 92081 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: APR. 11, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT JAMES E. SIMMONS JR. Judge of the Superior Court AJ 933 04/15, 04/22, 04/29, and 05/06/2022. ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD #933
EMPLOYMENT
LEGAL SERVICES CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00013372-CU-PT-CTL TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Nazir Samadi filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Nazir Samadi to Adam Crow. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 05/31/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 25 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego North County Division 325 S. Melrose Dr. Vista, CA 92081 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: APR. 11, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT JAMES E. SIMMONS JR. Judge of the Superior Court AJ 934 04/15, 04/22, 04/29, and 05/06/2022. ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD #934
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9008293
a. Bonita Driving School located at 971 Swaying Palms Way, San Diego, CA 92154. b. Aguilar Driving School located at 971 Swaying Palms Way, San Diego, CA 92154. c. Aguilar Drivers ED located at 971 Swaying Palms Way, San Diego, CA 92154. d. Bonita Driver ED located at 971 Swaying Palms Way, San Diego, CA 92154. e. Eastlake Drivers ED located at 971 Swaying Palms Way, San Diego, CA 92154. f. Eastlake Driving School located at 971 Swaying Palms Way, San Diego, CA 92154. g. Imperial Beach Driving School located at 971 Swaying Palms Way, San Diego, CA 92154. h. Olympian Driving School located at 971 Swaying Palms Way, San Diego, CA 92154. i. Otay Ranch Driving School located at 971 Swaying Palms Way, San Diego, CA 92154. j. Southbay Driving School located at 971 Swaying Palms Way, San Diego, CA 92154. k. Southwestern located at 971 Swaying Palms Way, San Diego, CA 92154. Registrant: Carlo Joseph Aguilar, 971 Swaying Palms Way, San Diego, CA 92154. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/25/2017. Signature Carlo Joseph Aguilar. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/07/2022. AJ 931 04/15, 04/22, 04/29, and 05/06/2022.
AJSD#931
(818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588 • http://www.asianjournal.com
LEGAL SERVICES
LEGAL SERVICES CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00010595-CU-PT-CTL
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Everardo Montoya Cornejo filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Everardo Montoya Cornejo to Everardo Montoya Montoya. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 05/03/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 21, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 909 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, 04/15/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, which poses a substantial risk to the health and welfare of court personnel and the public, rendering presence in, or access to, the court’s facilities unsafe, and pursuant to the emergency orders of the Chief Justice of the State of California and General Orders of the Presiding Department of the San Diego Superior Court, the following Order is made: NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD#909
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006377
Beauty Simplified located at 1688 Pelican Point Ct., Chula Vista, CA 91911. Registrant: a. Kerri Aviles, 1688 Pelican Point Ct., Chula Vista, CA 91911. b. Mark Aviles, 1688 Pelican Point Ct., Chula Vista, CA 91911. This business is conducted by Married Couple. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Kerri Aviles. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/16/2022. AJ 905 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, and 04/15/2022. AJSD 905
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9007100
a. Burila Transport located at 1909 C Ave., #6, National City, CA 91950. b. Burila Logistics located at 1909 C Ave., #6, National City, CA 91950. Registrant: Christopher Calcaño, 1909 C Ave., #6, National City, CA 91950. . This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVED Signature Christopher Calcaño. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/24/2022. AJ 915 04/01, 04/08, 04/15, and 04/22/2022.
AJSD 915
SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 15-21, 2022
CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00010611-CU-PT-CTL
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Michael Anthony Griffith AKA Michael Nguyen filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Michael Anthony Griffith AKA Michael Nguyen to Michael Anthony Griffith. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 05/03/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. C-61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 21, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 910 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, 04/15/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD#910
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9005098
Taco Bomb Authentic Mexican Grill located at 6725 Linda Vista Rd., San Diego, CA 92111. Registrant: Taco Bomb Authentic Mexican Grill, 6725 Linda Vista Rd., San Diego, CA 92111. This business is conducted by Corporation. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 02/01/2022. Signature Rogelio Diaz. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/01/2022. AJ 906 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, and 04/15/2022. AJSD#906
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006991
a. HB Photos located at 1296 Sea Reef Drive, San Diego, CA 92154. b. HB Photos.Co located at 1296 Sea Reef Drive, San Diego, CA 92154. c. HB Photo Studios located at 1296 Sea Reef Drive, San Diego, CA 92154. d. HB Studio Productions located at 1296 Sea Reef Drive, San Diego, CA 92154. Registrant: Hannah Bernabe, 1296 Sea Reef Drive, San Diego, CA 92154. This business is conducted by Indivdual. REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME(S) AS OF 12/21/2020. Signature Hannah Bernabe. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/24/2022. AJ 916 04/01, 04/08, 04/15, and 04/22/2022. AJSD 916
CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00009331-CU-PT-CTL
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Aracely Cuevas on behalf of minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Joevany Hernan Rivera to Joevany Cuevas. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 04/26/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 11, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 911 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, and 04/15/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD#911
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006460
LEGAL SERVICES
CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00009336-CU-PT-CTL
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Aracely Cuevas on behalf of minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Julian Cristian Juarez Cuevas to Julian Cuevas. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 04/26/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 11, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 912 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, and 04/15/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD#912
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006665
Laras Logistics Transportation located at 858 Beyer Way, K10, San Diego, CA 92154. Registrant: Jesus Ricardo Lara Lara, 858 Beyer Way, K10, San Diego, CA 92154. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Jesus R Lara Lara. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/17/2022. AJ 907 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, and 04/15/2022.
a. Geraldinesthetics LLC located at 2423 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92108. b. Geraldinesthetics located at 2423 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92108. c. Geraldinesthetics Academy located at 2423 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92108. Registrant: Geraldinesthetics LLC, 2423 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92108. This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 12/17/2021. Signature Geraldine Cabreros. Statement filed with Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/19/2022. AJ 908 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, 04/15/2022. AJSD 908
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006449
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006902
AJSD 907
Ai Pai Bakers located at 3365 Central Avenue, Spring Valley, CA 91977. Registrant: a. Brigham Faamausili, 3365 Central Avenue, Spring Valley, CA 91977. b. Sipau Lavatai, 3365 Central Avenue, Spring Valley, CA 91977. This business is conducted by Married Couple. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 06/16/2020. Signature Sipau Lavatai. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 06/16/2020. AJ 917 04/01, 04/08, 04/15, 04/22/2022. AJSD 917
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Angel Nails And Spa located at 1475 E H Street, Chula Vista, CA 91910. Registrant: Tan Thien Huynh, 3839 Murray Hill Road, La Mesa, CA 91941. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVED Signature Tan Thien Huynh. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/23/2022. AJ 918 04/01, 04/08, 04/15, and 04/22/2022. AJSD 918
CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00010555-CU-PT-CTL
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Cynthia Suarez on behalf of a minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Josiiah Richy Ramirez to Josiiah Richy Ramirez Suarez. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 05/04/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAR. 21, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 920 04/01, 04/08, 04/15, and 04/22/2022. ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD#920
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006742
a. T.R Recycling LLC located at 552 Alta Rd #A, San Diego, CA 92154. b. 619 Junk Cars located at 552 Alta Rd #A, San Diego, CA 92154. Registrant: T. R Recycling LLC, 3858 Cottonwood St., San Diego, CA 92113. This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Norma Ramirez Estrada. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/22/2022. AJ 913 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, and 04/15/2022. AJSD 913
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006993
STICKERGEEK located at 521 Valencia Parkway, San Diego, CA 92114. Registrant: Joseph Molina, 521 Valencia Parkway, San Diego, CA 92114. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 03/24/2022. Signature Joseph Molina. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/24/2022. AJ 919 04/01, 04/08, 04/15, 04/22/2022.
AJSD 919
AMENDED CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00011822-CU-PT-CTL
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Beronica Leticia Jaurigue Gonzalez filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Beronica Leticia Jaurigue Gonzalez to Veronica Leticia Gonzalez. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 05/12/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: APR. 01, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 921 04/08, 04/15, 04/22, and 04/29/2022. ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.
AJSD#921
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9006610
Hustle Minded Individuals located at 2954 Oakstone Creek Pl., San Diego, CA 92027. Registrant: Von Kelvin Ku, 2954 Oakstone Creek Pl., San Diego, CA 92027. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF: 02/28/2017 Signature Von Kelvin Ku. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/18/2022. AJ 914 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, 04/15/2022. AJSD 914
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9007816
a. Alto Point Technologies located at 2432 Front St., San Diego, CA 92101. b. Alto Point located at 2432 Front St., San Diego, CA 92101. c. Surfviviendo located at 2432 Front St., San Diego, CA 92101. Registrant: Leandro Antonio Lourenzo, 2432 Front St., San Diego, CA 92101. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME(S) AS OF 01/06/2012. Signature Leandro Antonio Lourenzo. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/04/2022. AJ 923 04/08, 04/15, 04/22,
and 04/29/2022.
AJSD#923
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SAN DIEGO
APRIL 15-21, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL
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JOURNAL
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A P R I L 1 5, 2 0 22
Holy Week traditions leading up to Easter Sunday T
by AJPress
HOSE of the Christian faith will mark the end of the 40-day Lenten season with Easter, the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While the day is widely symbolized by the Easter bunny, dyed eggs, and chocolate, there is more to the holiday and the traditions associated with it. For Filipinos, Holy Week (Mahal na Araw) — known as the days leading up to Easter — is a significant observance, given that the Philippines still holds a Catholic majority of 80% of the country’s population. For Filipinos around the world of this faith, they carry these religious practices with them as they remember Christ’s passion and resurrection. Holy Week kicks off with Palm Sunday and lasts until Easter Sunday. For 2022, the week runs from April 10 to April 17. Here are some observances and traditions during this solemn observance: Fasting and abstinence Ash Wednesday (the beginning of Lent) and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. On the Fridays during Lent, many refrain from eating meat. During Holy Week, Catholic faithfuls may observe fasting by reducing the number of meals eaten each day. “If possible, the fast on Good Friday is continued until the Easter Vigil (on Holy Saturday night) as the “paschal fast” to honor the suffering and death of the Lord Jesus and to prepare ourselves to share more fully and to celebrate more readily his Resurrection,” according to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Veiled images If you visit a church during Holy Week, beginning on Palm Sunday, some churches will cover religious artwork and statues with purple cloth as a somber ritual. “Crucifixes are unveiled after the Good Friday ceremonies and all other images just before the Easter vigil Mass on Holy Saturday,” according to the Catholic News Agency. Visiting seven churches Visita Iglesia is a Lenten practice to visit seven churches either on Maundy Thursday or Good Friday and recite the Stations of the Cross, which are the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion. The tradition is said to have started in the 16th century. Good Friday In the Philippines, Good Friday, considered a public holiday, is marked with ritual crucifixions and public reenactments of Jesus’ suffering. Most Catholics will observe this day by refraining from eating meat and focusing on fasting and prayer.
Salubong on Easter Sunday While modern-day Easter celebrations are associated with gatherings, egg hunts and other family-friendly activities, in the religious sense, it is the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection and the end of the 40-day Lenten sacrifice. Easter Sunday begins with salubong before dawn, when the Virgin Mary meets Jesus who comes back to life. Parishes will have a ritual procession with a statue of Mary in mourning, which is carried by women along a route, while men carry the statue of the Risen Christ. Both processions follow separate routes until the images meet. After the procession, churches will continue with Easter mass. n
AJPress illustration by Jillian Peñalosa
Don Darryl Rivera and Gilbert Gottfried backstage at the New Amsterdam Theatre in 2015. Both have played Aladdin character Iago – Rivera in Broadway and Gottfried in the film version. Photo courtesy of TDW+Co
Fil-Am stage star pays tribute to Gilbert Gottfried at curtain call
ON Wednesday, April 13 at Aladdin on Broadway, the production’s original and continuing Iago, Filipino American Don Darryl Rivera, paid tribute to Gilbert Gottfried during the show’s curtain call, after it was announced that Gottfried had passed away. Gottfried indelibly voiced the character of Iago in the 1992 animated film Aladdin. Aladdin, the hit musical based on the Academy Award®winning animated film, opened on Broadway at the New Amsterdam Theatre to critical acclaim on March 20, 2014 and quickly established itself as one of the biggest new blockbusters in recent years, breaking 14 New Amsterdam Theatre house records. Worldwide it has welcomed more than 14 million people and can be seen currently on Broadway, in Tokyo, the Netherlands, Mexico City and Stuttgart. Produced by Disney Theatrical Productions, under the direction of Thomas Schumacher, the show features music by Tony Award and eight-time Oscar® winner Alan
Menken (Beauty and the Beast, Newsies, Sister Act), lyrics by two-time Oscar winner Howard Ashman (Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid), three-time Tony Award and three-time Oscar winner Tim Rice (Evita, Aida) and six-time Tony Award nominee Chad Beguelin (The Wedding Singer), with a book by Beguelin, and is directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Casey Nicholaw (The Book of Mormon). Aladdin, adapted from the animated Disney film and centuries-old folktales including “One Thousand and One Nights,” is brought to fresh theatrical life in this bold new musical. Aladdin’s journey sweeps audiences into an exciting world of daring adventure, classic comedy and timeless romance. This new production features a full score, including the five cherished songs from the Academy Awardwinning soundtrack and more written especially for the stage. The animated film Aladdin was released by Disney in 1992 and was a critical and box office smash, becoming the highest-
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Community
SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 15-21, 2022
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City of San Diego wins key federal loan to help upgrade aging storm drain system City Council’s unanimous approval paves way for up to $733 million over next five years to fix failing pipes and pump stations
Social media star Bretman Rock wears a skirt.
Photo from Instagram/@bretman
Bretman Rock pushes beyond style sterotypes with ‘airy and breezy’ skirt By Marane
a. Plaza
Philstar.com
MULTI-hyphenate social media star Bretman Rock is shaking up his fashion sense and probably breaking style stereotypes in his current trip in New York, as he rocked an “airy and breezy” skirt as seen on his latest Instagram post. While Bretman has been loved for his over-the-top, outlandish makeup and outfits and wicked humor, the beauty YouTuber is not often seen wearing a skirt. That’s why his new outift of the day (OOTD) sure looked like a sight for sore eyes for his followers and fashion fans in general. The Fil-Am influencer donned
a mini-skirt in paisley prints, matched with a floral sleeved top. He capped off the look with cool sunnies and a pair of white sky-high platform boots. “Wanted to wear something airy and breezy so my as$ can breathe,” Rock wrote in the caption in his usual humor. Bretman has been known for breaking common norms and stereotypes, even making history last year for being the first open gay man to grace the cover of Playboy magazine. His YouTube vlogs had been given a television program format through a reality show on MTV. As of this writing, he has over 18.2 million followers on Instagram, 8.89 subscribers on YouTube, and 5.7 million followers on Twitter. n
Best sign you’ve moved on from your ex? You’re dating again, says Phoemela By alex
Brosas Inquirer.net
THERE are many ways to move forward from a failed relationship, and actress-host Phoemela Baranda believes that there is one sign indicating if a person has truly moved on. “Ang pinaka-move on is ‘yung mag-date ka na uli, ‘di ba? Kapag nakapag-date ka na uli, meaning nakapag-move on ka na,” Baranda said when asked how she had moved on from a
Phoemela Barranda Photo from Instagram/@phoemelabaranda
breakup, during the online press conference for the digital series “How To Move On In 30 Days,” last March 30. (You have really moved on when you start dating again, right? If you have started dating again, that means you have moved on.) As the title of her project suggests, the are indeed many ways for people who have gone through breakups to get over the heartache, but this involves a process, she explained. The phases involve denial, and to go beyond denial, one has to accept the pain then release it. One can cry it out, or one can confront the ex-partner, which was what she did. Baranda also reached out to her friends and told them what her ex-boyfriend did to her. After some time, the pain was finally gone. “After a while, magiging kaibigan mo na ‘yung ibang ex. Proseso talaga,” she said. (After a while, you can even already be friends with some of your exes. It is really a process.) n
SAN DIEGO – To address the City of San Diego’s aging storm drain system, the City Council has unanimously approved a lowinterest federal loan that paves the way for an investment of up to $733 million in stormwater projects – from pipeline replacements to pump station repairs – over the next five years. The Council vote allows the city to use the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) special loan program for water infrastructure projects to cover 49% of up to $733 million in stormwater system upgrades. The city will cover the other half of those costs through other financing methods, such as grants, state loans, Transnet, federal infrastructure act or general fund dollars. “This investment is a big down payment as we make significant upgrades to our aging stormwater system to ensure clean water and beaches for future generations of San Diegans,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “Replacing pipes and upgrading pump stations before they fail and become problems is how we keep our neighborhoods safe from flooding, improve our water quality, and prevent pollution from getting to the ocean.” Established in 2014, the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) is a federal credit program designed to promote improved water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure. In January 2021, the EPA selected the City of San Diego’s Stormwater Capital Improvement Program as one of 60 in the nation eligible to apply for the loan and its benefits. The City plans to utilize the WIFIA program with a first loan installment in May 2022 to fund stormwater projects that satisfy the
Mayor Todd Gloria
File photo/www.sandiego.gov
requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The city has an estimated 100 projects that may qualify under NEPA standards. The amount of the loan and the exact projects to receive funding will be approved by the City Council in the future, but eligible projects include but are not limited to: • Replacing outdated corrugated metal pipes with reinforced concrete pipes. • Installing green infrastructure features, such as biofiltration basins and rain gardens. • Restoring waterways to reduce flooding concerns.
• Upgrading a dozen aging pump stations to increase capacity and reduce flooding. A key advantage of the WIFIA loan program is the ability to lock in low interest rates that are fixed for the duration of the loan. Current interest rates are estimated at 2.31% – the exact rate for the city won’t be set until the loan installment is finalized in May. The city previously received WIFIA financing for the Pure Water San Diego project. “Stormwater infrastructure is often underground and out of mind, but we need a strong storm drain system to maintain and improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods,” said Kris McFadden, Director of the City’s Stormwater Department. “When we ignore problems, they only get bigger, so I’m thankful to Mayor Gloria and this City Council for supporting this opportunity to fix a lot more pipes for the San Diegans we serve.” The City of San Diego has relaunched the new and improved Think Blue San Diego – the public education and outreach arm of the Stormwater Department – to raise public awareness about how a modern stormwater system helps ensure clean water and clean beaches for future generations. The efforts include a new thinkblue.org website; a new marketing and advertising push; beach and neighborhood cleanups; and educational outreach events throughout the year. The Think Blue relaunch comes at a critical time as public awareness of stormwater issues has eroded over the past decade. In 2011, a survey showed 43% of San Diegans know that stormwater goes directly to local waterways untreated, but that fell to 26% in a survey conducted last year. (City of San Diego Release) n
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APRIL 15-21, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588
Why Cebuana fashion designer Mayeth Codoy is Democrats celebrate the appointment of Judge making waves in Europe with her ‘Filipiniana’ creations Jackson to US Supreme Court, historic diversity of Biden-Harris administration
PRESIDENT Joseph Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and Democrats are keeping their promise to the Filipino American community because they make the difference. The president helped get America back to work, provided funding to support Asian American families and small businesses, and got kids safely back to school. He’s creating a government that looks like America. Starting at the top with the nation’s first Black and South Asian vice president, the BidenHarris administration nominated 16 Asian American federal judicial nominees, which represents 18 percent of all federal judicial nominees. President Biden has also placed Asian Americans in senior roles in the White House and the Cabinet. As Republicans stand in the way of progress for the American people, Democrats continue to fight for a diverse America and deliver results that matter. DNC Chair Jaime Harrison, DNC AAPI Caucus Chair Bel LeongHong, and DNC Women’s Caucus Chair Lottie Shackleford, issued the following joint statement regarding the confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson: “History has been made. The U.S. Senate voted in a bipartisan
fashion to confirm Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson as Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court. In doing so, they reaffirmed what millions across the country have seen: Judge Jackson is a brilliant, graceful, experienced, fair-minded jurist who will bring much-needed perspectives to our highest court. The court would greatly benefit from the insight of a woman of color, a public defender, a judge who has served at the district and appellate levels and clerked at the Supreme Court. It is staggering that Judge Jackson embodies all those perspectives and more. Judge Jackson has shown girls — especially girls of color — how big they can dream and just how profound an impact they can have on our nation. Her story is uniquely American. She represents the best of us and our shared values. We are grateful to President Biden, Vice President Harris, and the senators who confirmed Judge Jackson for taking another important step to build a government that looks like America. Today proves once again that diverse women can accomplish anything. They can be vice president. They can shape the future of our nation. And, they can serve on the Supreme Court.” (DNC Release) n
Fil-Am stage star pays... PAGE 10 grossing film of the year. The film won the Oscar for Best Original Score and introduced the hit song “A Whole New World,” which won the second of the film’s two Academy Awards as Best Original Song. The Peabo Bryson/Regina Belle recording of the tune soared to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Aladdin is designed by seventime Tony-winning scenic designer Bob Crowley, sixtime Tony-winning lighting designer Natasha Katz, twotime Tony-winning costume designer Gregg Barnes and
sound designer Ken Travis. The production team also includes illusion designer Jim Steinmeyer, hair designer Josh Marquette and makeup designer Milagros MedinaCerdeira. The music team is headed by music supervisor and music directorMichael Kosarin, who also created the vocal and incidental music arrangements, joined by orchestrator Danny Troob and dance music arranger Glen Kelly. Anne Quart serves as coproducer. For more information, visit AladdinTheMusical.com. n
MAYETH Codoy, a Filipina fashion designer living in Norway, is one of the designers whose works will be showcased at Asia Pacific Fashion Week 2022 (APFW) – a global platform for emerging designers – in Los Angeles and Las Vegas on August 6 and 13, respectively. Mayeth is the founder of MYET, a line of fashionable and luxurious clothing produced almost completely of abaca (Manila hemp) and pinya (pineapple), textiles that are unique to the Philippines. Mayeth, who was born and raised in Cebu in the Philippines, began her inspiring journey at the age of 23 when she left her family to work as an au pair in Oslo. While in Oslo, Codoy pursued her big dream by studying fashion design at the Esmod International Fashion School in Oslo, which is a subsidiary of the prestigious Esmod Group in Paris. Mayeth’s Filipinianainspired works were notably featured on Esmod International’s official website last year. Her artistic pieces, such as the Maria Clara gown fashioned of pinya fiber, the same material used to produce the Philippine national costume ‘barong Tagalog,’ carry the cultural identity of traditional Filipino clothes. Mayeth graduated in 2020, and has since founded MYET, a small fashion company in Norway. “The reason for starting this
Creating clothes with asymmetrical cuts is a fashion style that appeals heavily to Mayeth Codoy, a Filipina fashion designer based in Norway, and worn by model Antilda Coroma. Photo by Lluis Calm Vidal
French model Mamì Chula in a Mayeth Codoy asymmetrical dress made of fabrics sourced from pineapples (and pineapple-inspired mini bag, to boot) at the Paris Fashion Week 2021. Photo by Artur Rocha
unwavering resolve to achieve her goals. Mayeth’s designs are brand is to create something able to highlight the distinct unique made with natural beauty of the Philippine fibers fabrics, produced by farmers pinya and abaca in such in my home country. This as beautiful, modern creations that I can identify with their daily are appropriate for both special struggles to provide for their events and everyday wear. family,” the designer said on her Mayeth’s trademark brand is website www.myet.no. slowly establishing itself in key Mayeth sourced the materials European cities today. In 2022, for her garments from artisan she will debut her designs at villages in Aklan, a province in APFW in Los Angeles, which the Philippines famous for its is regarded as the world’s fifth stunning white beaches on the fashion capital after Paris, island of Boracay. London, Milan, and New York. “All products with this Mayeth’s artistic vision garment will be produced in the is very inspiring, and APFW Philippines, creating even more believes she exemplifies jobs,” she said. Philippine creativity and artistry. Mayeth’s creations were Mayeth’s aim and ambition featured in Paris Fashion to promote Philippine natural Week in 2021, a testament to fibers to the European market is her brilliance, hard work, and
Mayeth Codoy was invited to exhibit her ensembles made from Philippine fabrics at the Philippine Embassy in Oslo, Norway. Photo courtesy of Philippine Embassy in Norway
an expression of her love for her homeland. She makes Filipinos happy to call themselves Filipinos. Asia Pacific Fashion Week: A global platform The range of designs within the Filipino community is unlike any other. But what makes them extra special is the subtle nod they make to their culture. Indeed, these designers are drawing well-deserved attention to Filipino glam – and Asia Pacific Fashion Week will be their newest global platform to showcase the diversity of Filipino-inspired fashions. This inaugural edition of APFW is presented by the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles, DTI Los Angeles office, Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) and The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. The Los Angeles leg of APFW enjoys the support of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. Trending Beverages Inc., Napa Valley Distribution Inc., Montemaria Cellars, House of Pacquiao Wine, Individual Health Care, Lombard by the Bay, MTS Law Firm, Premier Asia Pacific Real Estate & Development, and Tina Modeling. The Las Vegas edition is coproduced by InterEdx, a dba of Dynasty Exchange Ltd. LLC., headed by Dr. Lee Dedicatoria, in cooperation with Asia on Pinay designer Mayeth Codoy, who runs her Earth, Dynasty Ventures, Club own atelier in Oslo named MYET, also develops Paradisia, World Edoption, accessories including footwear, purses, hair Royal Blue Staffing and Lend International Pinay designer Mayeth Codoy utilizes the fibers sourced from banana and abaca accessories and hats as worn by models with Love. plant in the Philippines. Designs worn by models Abigail Gyamfi and Jannike Skien. Abigail Gyamfi and Jannike Skien. (APFW Release) n Photo by Joe Urrutia
Photo by Joe Urrutia
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SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 15-21, 2022
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Gaming revenues up as industry officials see sustained momentum By RealtoR
Fely Quitevis-Bateman
IT is a sign that brighter things are yet to come for Las Vegas, which is considered as the gaming and entertainment capital of the world. A recent news report said that commercial casinos made some $8.92 billion in revenues in January and February of 2022, paced by Nevada’s $2.192 billion. The Silver State’s revenues almost kept pace with the combined earnings of the next three states with the highest revenues on the list compiled by the American Gaming Association. Those three states are Pennsylvania ($808 million), New Jersey ($755 million) and New York ($631.6 million). According to officials quoted in the article, the record start for 2022 means that there is a strong demand from people to travel and enjoy themselves after having been cooped up in their homes since the pandemic started about two years ago. Although it remains to be seen if Nevada’s casinos will eclipse their performance last year, it shows that “Americans are continuing to make gaming a first-choice entertainment option.” While non-gaming areas of resortcasinos have not fully recovered to their pre-pandemic levels per the report, the gaming revenues indicate that people in general have “a strong desire to return to a sense of normalcy after two difficult years, and people feel more comfortable traveling given the tremendous strides in fighting the virus.” Las Vegas – and Nevada as a state, for that matter – has always been one of the more iconic and popular travel destinations for Americans and for tourists from around the world. Aside from varied gaming options within the resort-casinos, visitors have ample things to do – shop, dine, swim, do some sightseeing, watch shows/concerts, and/or pamper themselves with an array of spa services. Associations connected with the gaming and hospitality industries are happy with
The last commercial lot on the north side of the Strip was bought by the Siegel Group.
Las Vegas ranked as the No. 1 tourist destination in 2021, and that will continue to be true in the future.
Californians are the top migrants to Clark County, which is where the cities of Las Vegas and Pahrump are located in as shown in the photo above.
what they are seeing. For them, it feels as though there are many people who were fortunate enough to have saved some money during the pandemic and are ready to spend it on travel and experiences they missed out the last couple of years. Today’s existing resort-casinos and those under construction are well-equipped to keep Las Vegas visitors entertained as they all have key attractions and components that differentiate them from each other. It also helps that the executives from resort-casinos and local officials work in tandem to keep Las Vegas up front and center of people’s minds when it comes to vacation options or even for conventions, meetings and conferences.
People may know Bellagio, Venetian, Palazzo, Wynn, Mandalay Bay, and MGM Resorts, but there are other new resortcasinos vying for people’s attention like Resorts World, Circa, The Fountainbleau (slated to open 2023), The LINQ, Cromwell, The Strat and a host of rebranded properties which have undergone major renovations and repairs. That is why prime real estate is hard to come by in Las Vegas these days. A recently completed deal that saw The Siegel Group acquire 10 acres just across the Strip from Resorts World Las Vegas has many people thinking what kind of development the Las Vegas-based company will come up with for a piece of real estate it dubs as “the last great piece of land available on the north Strip.” It has taken years for The Siegel Group to find and snap up property on the Strip, and it did so with a price tag of $75 million. Since it did not work with a lender, it will have its own timeline as to how to develop the property. That said, its long-term options, according to a news report, include a casinohotel, a condo tower, retail outlets and multifamily apartments. Of course, with construction and projects come jobs, and with that migration from other places in the U.S. Settling in and finding a place to establish roots, or finding an investment property, will be an important decision that may affect your financial future. I can help you find that piece of real estate that will match your needs and your budget. Together, we can comb for the best opportunities available in Las Vegas and its neighboring cities/towns. My company, Precious Properties, is a full-service company that has successfully helped its clientele find the best deals since 1992. You can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805-559-2476 and 702-538-4948 for more information. We have investors who buy houses in California and Nevada for cash and quick escrow in as short as 7 days. (Advertising Supplement)
Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman walked along Las Vegas Blvd. recently to check on what’s new on the Strip. Behind her is the blue Drew Hotel which is slated to open in 2023 with a reported number of 3,000 rooms.
Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (right) was finally able to get a photo at the world-famous welcome sign to Las Vegas with one of her investors from Manila, Dr. Jane Paragas.
San Diego’s new Planning Director Heidi Vonblum
File Photo/www.sandiego.gov
City of San Diego hires new planning director to lead on housing initiatives Planning department veteran Heidi Vonblum brings unique skills and knowledge to move city forward
SAN DIEGO – With a focus on creating safe, sustainable communities and homes that all San Diegans can afford and enjoy, the City of San Diego on Monday, April 11 announced the hiring of Heidi Vonblum as the City’s Planning Director. Heidi brings more than 12 years of experience working for the City of San Diego, including as Deputy Planning Director for the last two years. “Heidi is a visionary leader who has developed innovative planning initiatives to meet the challenges facing San Diego both today and decades from now,” said Mayor Gloria. “Her hard work and diligence have earned the trust and confidence of both City leadership and her team in the Planning Department, and I’m excited to continue working with her to meet our climate, housing and equity goals to improve the lives of all San Diegans.” Vonblum and her team in the Planning Department were instrumental in developing the Homes for All of Us initiative that pulls together multiple statewide and city reforms aimed at making it easier to create new homes for all income levels throughout San Diego. Mayor Gloria signed into law the first piece of the Homes for All of Us initiative last month. Another city program, Build Better SD, which was furthered under Vonblum’s leadership in the Planning Department, creates a new citywide fund for better and more equitable delivery of infrastructure improvements across San Diego. “Providing homes and safe and enjoyable neighborhoods are so critical for our city’s growing population,” said Vonblum. “I am excited to continue to work with the Mayor and the entire Planning Department team to bring more homes to people in all communities, and to ensure that the infrastructure needed to support and improve the lives of all San Diegans is delivered efficiently and equitably.” Vonblum started her career at the city in 2009 as a Deputy City Attorney in the San Diego City Attorney’s Office. There, she advised the Mayor and City Council on planning and land use matters, including the development of the city’s first Climate Action Plan in 2015. Vonblum joined the Planning Department in 2018 and has been in the role of Interim Planning Director since January. She was selected following a nationwide recruitment. The City’s Planning Department is responsible for the long-term growth of San Diego. The department’s vision is that every San Diegan has access to quality housing, parks, public spaces and mobility options, which create a strong and sustainable city. (City of San Diego Release) n
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APRIL 15-21, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL
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