050926 - Los Angeles Edition

US seizes 503 fake investment websites in Southeast Asia scam crackdown

U.S. Department of Justice files charges against two Chinese nationals, disrupts scam infrastructure, and restrains more than $700 million in cryptocurrency allegedly tied to transnational fraud operations targeting American victims

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Federal authorities have launched a coordinated enforcement campaign targeting transnational scam networks operating out of Southeast Asia, announcing criminal charges, digital seizures, and financial disruption measures tied to schemes that U.S. officials say have defrauded American victims of billions of dollars.

The actions, disclosed by the Justice Department, are part of the government’s Scam Center Strike Force, a multi-agency

U.S. eases visa freeze for foreign doctors, highlighting limits of broader healthcare immigration policy

A narrow federal adjustment allows continued processing for physician-related cases, offering relief for some foreign-trained doctors, including Filipinos, while leaving most healthcare workers under existing constraints.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Federal immigration authorities have eased a visa-processing freeze affecting foreign-trained physicians, carving out a limited pathway for doctors as healthcare providers warn that staffing shortages remain acute in underserved parts of the United States.

The adjustment is not a system-wide rollback of immigration restrictions. It applies primarily to physicians and is being implemented through agency-level guidance rather than a

info@asianjournalinc.com

Cebu summit puts war’s economic toll at center of Southeast Asian agenda

ASEAN leaders confront energy, food and maritime pressures tied to the Middle East conflict as the Philippines hosts a crisis-focused regional summit

by AJPress

PhilHealth receives P60 billion returned from National Treasury following Supreme Court ruling

by AJPress

MANILA — The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) has confirmed the return of P60 billion from the National Treasury following a Supreme Court ruling that ordered the restoration of funds earlier transferred from the state health insurer under provisions later declared invalid by the high court.

In a statement issued Thursday, May 7, 2026, PhilHealth said the return of the funds reflected the government’s support for the

26 Filipino seafarers deported after San Diego federal operation tied to child exploitation probe

Consulate expresses “grave concern” as advocacy groups question due process following CBP inspections aboard cruise vessels

by AJPress

SAN DIEGO — The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles confirmed that Filipino seafarers were among foreign cruise ship crew members detained and returned to their home countries following a federal enforcement operation conducted at the Port of San Diego.

According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), federal officers boarded eight cruise vessels between April 23 and April 27, 2026, as part of an investigation involving alleged child sexual

exploitation material, commonly referred to by law enforcement agencies as CSEM. Authorities said the operation involved interviews and inspections of electronic devices aboard several vessels, including the Disney Magic and Holland America Line’s Zaandam.

CBP stated that 28 crew members were interviewed during the operation. Of those, 26 were Philippine nationals, while the remaining individuals were identified as citizens of Portugal and Indonesia.

agency’s mandate to provide healthcare coverage and financial protection to Filipinos.

The agency said the restored amount would help strengthen benefit delivery, improve internal systems and support the implementation of programs under the Universal Health Care Act.

The legal dispute stemmed from provisions in the 2024 General Appropriations Act and a Department of Finance circular that authorized the transfer of what gov-

House expected to impeach Sara Duterte as Senate trial looms

by AJPress

elevate the case to the Senate. Several House members allied with the impeachment proceedings said this week that between 200 and 215 lawmakers were expected to support the articles of impeachment, significantly exceeding the minimum constitutional requirement of one-third of all House members. With 318 members in the chamber, at least 106 votes are necessary for impeachment to proceed to the

Decentralized syndicates emerge as focus of Senate flood control probe

by AJPress

MANILA — A Senate investigation into alleged irregularities involving billions of pesos in Philippine flood control projects is increasingly centering on what lawmakers describe as localized networks operating within regional and district public works offices rather than a single nationwide command structure.

ing flood control appropriations released between 2022 and 2025, including claims of unfinished or nonexistent projects, poor-quality construction, irregular contractor concentration, and possible coordination between contractors and local officials.

by AJPress

MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation’s case against Peanut Gallery Media Network (PGMN) founder Roberto Ma. Franco Cruz Mabanta continued to develop Friday, May 8, as authorities confirmed bail recommendations for the respondents and expanded aspects of the ongoing investigation.

Mabanta and four associates were arrested earlier this week following an alleged extortion complaint filed by former House Speaker and Leyte Rep. Ferdi-

nand Martin Romualdez.

The NBI alleged that Mabanta and his group demanded money in exchange for withholding the release of online material purportedly linking Romualdez to corruption. Authorities said the alleged amount reached P300 million, payable in four installments of P75 million each.

Mabanta is the founder and chairman of PGMN, a Philippine-based digital media and political commentary platform known for livestream discus-

Senate Blue Ribbon Committee chair Panfilo Lacson said Wednesday, May 6, that evidence presented before the panel so far suggests the alleged anomalies may have been carried out through separate clusters of influence embedded in specific Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) district engineering offices.

Speaking during the Kapihan sa Senado forum, Lacson said investigators have not established evidence supporting the existence of one central “mastermind” overseeing all questioned flood mitigation projects nationwide.

“I don’t think there’s an overall mastermind,” Lacson said. “There is a mastermind in Bulacan, there is a mastermind in Mindoro.”

The Senate inquiry has been examining allegations involv-

Committee discussions have focused on whether certain district engineering offices became operational hubs for alleged project manipulation and procurement irregularities.

Lawmakers project more than 200 votes in favor of impeachment as the vice president’s allies continue challenging the renewed proceedings ahead of a possible Senate trial NBI case against PGMN founder Franco Mabanta expands as bail set, probe widens

Lacson described the alleged practices as “parasitic,” while emphasizing that the Senate inquiry remains a fact-finding and legislative process rather than a criminal proceeding.

Under Philippine law, allegations and testimony raised during congressional hearings do not constitute proof of criminal liability unless validated through formal investigation and judicial proceedings.

Among the matters discussed during recent hearings was a handwritten note attributed by Lacson to the late former DPWH Undersecretary Ma. Catalina Cabral. Lacson said the note appeared to reference P500 million in infrastructure “allocables” as-

From the Front Page

Cebu summit puts war’s...

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Strait of Hormuz, have intensified concerns across Southeast Asia over fuel prices, fertilizer supplies and shipping flows.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., chairing ASEAN for 2026, urged an immediate halt to hostilities and called for the protection of civilians, critical infrastructure and freedom of commercial navigation.

“What ASEAN is calling for from the parties in the Middle East is peace,” Marcos said during the summit’s opening session.

Among the leaders and representatives attending the summit were Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia; Prabowo Subianto, President of Indonesia; Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia; Lawrence Wong, Prime Minister of Singapore; Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of Laos; Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister of Thailand; Lê Minh Hung, Prime Minister of Vietnam; Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste; Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan of Brunei Darussalam; and U Hau Khan Sum, Permanent Secretary of Myanmar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Myanmar again did not participate at the leaders’ political level, continuing ASEAN’s post-coup policy of limiting representation from the country’s military authorities. Leaders discussed the continuing lack of progress under ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus peace framework but did not announce a new regional approach.

Food and energy security dominated much of the summit agenda as regional officials discussed measures intended to strengthen ASEAN’s economic resilience amid continuing volatility in global fuel markets.

ASEAN economic officials examined proposals involving diversification of fuel sources, renewable energy expansion, acceleration of the ASEAN Power Grid and enhancement of regional emergency food reserves.

Leaders also discussed an oil-sharing framework intended to help member states respond to supply disruptions and severe shortages. Reuters reported that ASEAN members sought to fast-track regional coordination mechanisms as volatility in global energy markets intensified.

Food security emerged as another central issue because fertilizer shipments and agricultural commodities move through many of the same shipping corridors affected by the conflict. Regional officials warned that prolonged disruptions could place additional pressure on household costs and agricultural production.

Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and supported extending ceasefire efforts to help safeguard regional stability and maritime security.

The summit also adopted an ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Maritime Cooperation, endorsing the Philippine proposal to establish an ASEAN Maritime Centre intended to coordinate regional maritime initiatives. Philippine officials said further discussions would still be needed on the center’s governance structure and operational framework.

Negotiations toward a long-discussed Code of Conduct in the South China Sea also remained

on the agenda, although officials said no binding agreement was expected to emerge from Cebu.

China continues to claim large portions of the South China Sea, a position rejected by a 2016 arbitral ruling issued under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

On the sidelines of the summit, the Philippines facilitated talks between Thailand and Cambodia following tensions and clashes along sections of their disputed border in 2025.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet held discussions aimed at reducing tensions and reopening diplomatic dialogue. While no formal agreement was announced, both governments publicly expressed support for continued communication and restraint.

ASEAN leaders also focused on the safety of Southeast Asian nationals working across the Middle East, where more than one million citizens from ASEAN member states live and work.

Regional officials discussed contingency coordination, information-sharing systems and emergency response planning should the conflict worsen or large-scale evacuations become necessary.

Regional officials also discussed the potential use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence-assisted systems, to strengthen crisis coordination, information-sharing and consular response capabilities during emergencies.

The Cebu gathering also marked a significant institutional moment for ASEAN. Timor-Leste, formally admitted as ASEAN’s 11th member during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur in October 2025, participated in the Cebu meetings as part of its first full summit cycle as a member state.

Several leaders were likewise attending their first ASEAN summit in their current positions, including Thailand’s Anutin Charnvirakul and Vietnam’s Lê Minh Hung.

The summit proceeded with noticeably reduced ceremony compared with previous ASEAN gatherings, reflecting the economic and geopolitical pressures now confronting the region.

For ASEAN, the Cebu summit underscored how conflicts far beyond Southeast Asia can rapidly evolve into regional economic and security concerns, testing the bloc’s ability to coordinate collective responses amid growing global instability. n

NBI arrests PGMN founder Franco...

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sions, online political programming and social media content focused on national affairs and governance issues.

Also arrested were Ericson James D. Pacaba, John Alexander Vasquez Gomez, Jardine Christian Requio Serrano and Franco Jose Gallardo.

The NBI said the five were presented for inquest proceedings in connection with complaints for robbery-extortion and alleged violations of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

According to reports citing investigators and court sources, bail for the five respondents was set at P120,000 each.

Reports further indicated that Mabanta and the four other respondents had not yet posted bail as of Friday afternoon and remained under NBI custody pending processing requirements.

Investigators said the arrests stemmed from an entrapment operation conducted after un-

PhilHealth

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ernment officials described at the time as “excess” PhilHealth reserve funds to the National Treasury.

Financial records and government disclosures showed that three remittances totaling P60 billion were transferred in 2024 before the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order stopping the planned transfer of an additional P29.9 billion.

In a ruling released in December 2025, the Supreme Court ordered the return of the P60 billion through the 2026 General Appropriations Act and permanently prohibited the transfer of the remaining funds.

The court also voided the bud-

dercover agents posing as representatives of the complainant allegedly coordinated a meeting involving the supposed first tranche of payment.

Authorities previously said the operation concluded in Pasig City, where agents recovered marked money, counterfeit bills used during the operation and mobile phones allegedly connected to the transaction.

NBI Director Melvin Matibag reiterated that the bureau’s investigation focused on alleged criminal conduct and not political speech or criticism.

Meanwhile, the investigation widened after the NBI issued a subpoena for PGMN anchor CJ Hirro, whom investigators identified as a “person of interest” in the continuing probe.

According to reports citing NBI officials, authorities had not yet served the subpoena as of Friday and were attempting to verify addresses associated with Hirro and PGMN.

Mabanta denied wrongdoing and described the case as polit-

get provision and finance circular used to authorize the transfers, finding grave abuse of discretion in their issuance and implementation.

In its ruling, the Supreme Court said PhilHealth funds are legally dedicated to the country’s national health insurance program and should be used in accordance with the Universal Health Care framework.

The court further stated that reserve funds beyond statutory requirements should be directed toward improving member benefits, expanding healthcare coverage or reducing contribution burdens instead of being transferred for unrelated government expenditures.

ically motivated. In statements released through PGMN’s social media platforms, the organization maintained that no extortion or threats occurred and characterized the operation as a “setup.”

PGMN also said the disputed material involved a 90-minute video presentation that it claimed was the result of months of research into alleged government corruption. Mabanta’s legal counsel separately told reporters that the complaint was “weak and defensible” and said her client remained physically well although exhausted following the arrest and detention proceedings.

As of press time, no court had ruled on the allegations raised by either side. The contents of the disputed video materials had not been independently established in court or publicly authenticated by authorities.

Under Philippine law, all accused individuals are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt. n

PhilHealth said the returned funds are expected to reinforce the agency’s financial position as demand continues to grow for expanded medical coverage, lower out-of-pocket healthcare costs and faster claims processing.

The Department of Finance had previously maintained that the transfer complied with fiscal management policies and existing budget laws before the Supreme Court ruling invalidated the transfer mechanism.

The Supreme Court decision did not make findings of criminal liability against government officials. The ruling addressed the legality and constitutionality of the transfer process and ordered the disposition of the funds. n

Decentralized syndicates emerge...

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sociated with Senator Rodante Marcoleta.

Marcoleta denied wrongdoing and rejected Lacson’s interpretation of the document, describing the allegations as politically motivated and lacking sufficient basis to support insinuations of misconduct.

Lacson later clarified that the committee was not recommending an investigation of Marcoleta at this stage unless evidence directly linking projects to alleged ghost or substandard works emerges during the inquiry. He also noted that requests for project “allocables,” by themselves,

are not automatically unlawful under existing practices.

The Blue Ribbon Committee said it is preparing to transmit hearing transcripts, documentary materials and testimonies to the Department of Justice and the Office of the Ombudsman for possible evaluation and further legal review.

Lawmakers are likewise considering expanding the investigation to additional flood control projects in the Visayas and Mindanao to determine whether similar patterns exist outside Luzon.

The controversy has intensified public scrutiny over infra-

structure spending and flood mitigation programs following repeated flooding incidents in several provinces despite years of substantial government allocations for flood control works.

The hearings have also prompted renewed calls from some sectors for stricter oversight of public works procurement, contractor accreditation, project auditing and infrastructure monitoring systems.

To date, no individual mentioned during the Senate proceedings has been convicted or found criminally liable by a court in connection with the allegations under investigation. n

US seizes 503 fake investment websites...

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initiative designed to identify, disrupt, and prosecute organized fraud operations linked to cyber-enabled cryptocurrency investment scams and, in some cases, human trafficking.

Coordinated enforcement actions

According to the Justice Department, federal prosecutors have charged two Chinese nationals in connection with an alleged cryptocurrency investment fraud operation based in Myanmar, also known as Burma. Prosecutors allege the defendants were involved in managing a scam compound and attempting to expand similar operations into Cambodia. The charges remain allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Authorities also moved to dismantle communications and recruitment infrastructure linked to the schemes. This included the seizure of a channel on Telegram with more than 6,000 followers that investigators said was used to recruit individuals into scam compounds through fraudulent job offers, including postings that promised high-paying employment abroad.

In a parallel action, federal officials carried out the seizure of 503 fake investment websites used to perpetrate fraud schemes, disrupting a large network of online platforms designed to mislead victims into transferring funds.

Financial disruption and asset restraint

The Justice Department reported that it has identified and restrained more than $700 million in cryptocurrency allegedly tied to laundering proceeds from cryptocurrency investment scams.

Authorities said the funds were restrained through U.S. legal process and voluntary ac-

tions by cryptocurrency providers, reflecting a coordinated effort to disrupt the financial flows supporting scam operations.

Structure of the scam operations

U.S. authorities described the scam centers as part of broader transnational criminal enterprises operating primarily in parts of Southeast Asia, including Myanmar and Cambodia. In these schemes, victims are cultivated over time and deceived into depositing funds into fraudulent investment platforms.

The Justice Department also stated that some individuals working within these compounds were recruited under false pretenses, had their documents taken, and were compelled to participate in fraudulent activity, underscoring links between cyber fraud and human trafficking.

Interagency and international coordination

The enforcement actions involve coordination among multiple U.S. agencies, including

the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Secret Service, along with international law enforcement partners and private-sector entities.

Officials said financial institutions and technology companies have also taken steps following law enforcement alerts to help detect and prevent the misuse of digital platforms tied to scam activity.

Legal posture and continuing operations

The Justice Department emphasized that the

ture of

Officials

Leviste vs Recto: Political scions clash over corruption

by Delon Porcalla, DaPhne Galvez Philstar.com

MANILA —  Lawmakers who are scions of dynastic political families traded barbs on Tuesday over the issue of corruption and vote buying, raised by rookie congressman Leandro Legarda-Leviste in a privilege speech.

The Batangas lawmaker earned the ire of his colleagues in the House of Representatives – both from the administration and the opposition –when he delivered a speech accusing his fellow legislators of massive corruption and involvement in vote buying.

His speech was supposedly initially directed at his nemesis, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, whom he wanted removed, but he later went on to declare that “all” of his colleagues were guilty of vote buying.

Recto’s lawmaker-son, Rep. Ryan Christian Santos-Recto of Batangas’ sixth district, stood up to defend his father – a former senator and congressman – as well as his celebrity-turned-politician mother and now Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos.

“While this representation recognizes the importance of legislative oversight, I believe that it is equally important that information shared in this plenary is accurately based on facts, not assumptions, not insinuations and certainly not on incomplete information,” the younger Recto argued.

Leviste, in his speech, alleged that there is a transactional relationship between the executive secretary and CWS party-list Rep. Edwin Gardiola, who allegedly funded the campaign of the political slate of Vilma Santos in the 2025 elections.

“The plenary should not be used to state assumptions or accusations without enough basis,” Ryan Recto said.

“Their association is purely professional, as congressman Gardiola is also a member of the House and a fellow Batangueño, there are no personal interests involved,” the neophyte legislator pointed out.

Hearsay Leviste admitted not having verified his accusations and that he was only stating information shared with him by other Batangas politicians whom he did not name. He urged his colleagues, however, to look into the matter.

“I’m saying this to let everyone know the connection of Gardiola and Ralph Recto and its effect on the country,” Leviste said in Filipino.

An indignant Rep. Leila de Lima of the Mamamayang Liberal party-list also stood up to denounce Leviste’s speech and demanded that he withdraw his claim that all lawmakers had been involved in vote buying. Majority Leader Sandro Marcos intervened.

“While we appreciate the sentiments of the Honorable de Lima, I believe part of what she is espousing with regard to the contents of the speech was already covered by the motion in which parts of the speech be stricken off, in which there was no basis in fact or evidence,” Marcos said.

“I understand, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Majority leader, but we want it from the mouth of Rep. Leviste himself,” De Lima insisted.

“First, I would like to clarify that I meant that there are some, but not all, and there are many

U.S. eases visa freeze for foreign

PAGE 1

sweeping policy directive. Federal updates indicate that applications tied to medical doctors continue to be processed within a broader framework of heightened screening. For hospitals and training institutions, the distinction is consequential. Many foreign-trained physicians enter the United States through the J-1 visa, which supports graduate medical education. Under existing law, some participants in that program are required to return to their home country for two years after training unless they secure a waiver.

members of Congress who do not violate election laws, so please do not consider that I said that all, and I definitely withdraw that there are,” Leviste said.

Quezon Rep. David Suarez questioned the timing of Leviste’s vote-buying allegations. “Why are we now standing here insinuating all sorts of illegal acts that happened in 2025 when so much time has passed? I question the timing of all of this,” he said.

The chamber would later vote to strike out the privilege speech of Leviste, upon the motion of Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon, who said the Batangas lawmaker’s speech “doesn’t appear to be a speech relating to a personal or collective privilege.”

Leviste ‘deranged’

In a statement released hours after Leviste’s privilege speech, Recto called the lawmaker’s allegations “lies” peddled by a “bitter brat” and a “deranged person.”

He said he did not want to dignify lies by someone “who lacks attention, lacks intellect and lacks love.”

Recto claimed that during their first meeting, Leviste offered P400 million and urged him to bribe his political rival to back out from the race.

“I rejected it,” Recto said.

The executive secretary added that Leviste had offered P1 billion to dissuade his wife, Vilma Santos, from running in the gubernatorial race in Batangas and give way to him.

“Again, I rejected it. It was insulting. It was infuriating. My respect for his mother, a former colleague, is the only reason why I did not expose him and file charges,” Recto said, referring to Sen. Loren Legarda.

“His mother knows that I did not like the discussion so she apologized for it. In his twisted mind, everything is for sale: persons, dignity and position.”

Recto also claimed to have received reports about how Leviste allegedly engineered “a massive vote-buying operation in Batangas, unprecedented in history.”

“I would like to clarify that when Leandro won, he took his oath before me because he was repeatedly aspiring for one thing: to seize the thousands of hectares from the sugarcane hacienda in Nasugbu.

“I do not have the capacity to accommodate someone who can be considered a land grabber. I rejected it again.” (with reports from Alexis Romero) Rep. Leandro Leviste (Batangas 1st District) and Rep. Ryan Recto (Batangas 6th District) in composite images.

A targeted physician pathway

One established route is the Conrad 30 Waiver Program, which allows states to sponsor foreign medical graduates who agree to practice in federally designated shortage areas. The program is specific to physicians and reflects a longstanding federal effort to direct medical talent to communities with limited access to care.

That statutory structure explains why the current easing is narrow in scope. While it may improve continuity for physicians navigating training and post-training employment, it does not extend comparable flexibility to other healthcare professions.

Workforce pressures behind the adjustment

The United States continues to face structural challenges in maintaining an adequate physician workforce. National workforce projections have consistently pointed to gaps driven by population growth, geographic disparities in care and the retirement of older practitioners.

International medical graduates already play a significant role in bridging those gaps. Federal and academic data indicate that roughly one in four practicing physicians in the United States received their medical education abroad, with many serving in rural counties and inner-city systems where recruitment is more difficult.

Healthcare organizations have cautioned that disruptions in visa processing can translate directly into delayed placements, reduced staffing levels and longer patient wait times, particularly in communities already designated as medically underserved.

Filipino community relevance

For Filipino American communities, the policy carries both immediate and broader implications. The Philippines has long been a major source of healthcare professionals for the United States, with

Filipino workers embedded across hospitals, clinics and long-term care facilities.

Filipino physicians, while smaller in number than nurses, are part of the international medical graduate pipeline affected by J-1 training and waiver pathways. Greater consistency in processing may help some remain in U.S. practice, particularly if they commit to serving shortage-designated areas.

At the same time, the limits of the policy are clear. Filipino nurses and other healthcare professionals largely rely on employment-based immigration routes such as the EB-3 visa, which are governed by annual caps, processing backlogs and employer sponsorship requirements. Those pathways are not part of the current adjustment.

Allied health professionals, including therapists and medical technologists, typically navigate a combination of employer-sponsored visas and permanent residency categories, depending on qualifications and licensing. Caregivers and home health aides face even tighter constraints, as many roles do not meet the eligibility criteria for specialty-occupation visas.

Uneven policy design

The divergence reflects how U.S. immigration law is structured. Physician flexibility is anchored in programs tied to public health needs and federally recognized shortage areas. These provisions allow agencies to apply discretion within an existing legal framework.

By contrast, most other healthcare roles do not have dedicated waiver systems linked to workforce shortages. As a result, administrative adjustments can be implemented more readily for physicians than for the broader healthcare workforce without legislative change.

Workforce data show that demand extends well beyond doc-

tors. The healthcare sector continues to expand due to demographic shifts, including an aging population and increased need for longterm and chronic care services. Yet immigration pathways for many essential roles remain comparatively rigid.

Institutional implications

Hospitals that rely on international medical graduates may benefit from reduced disruption if physician-related applications continue to move through the system. This is particularly relevant in rural and underserved areas where foreign-trained doctors are often a primary source of care.

However, the broader staffing challenge persists. The same institutions depend heavily on nurses, technicians and support staff, many of whom face longer immigration timelines and more limited visa options. Without structural changes to those pathways, shortages in non-physician roles are likely to continue.

A measured policy shift

The available federal guidance supports a cautious characterization. The administration has not introduced a blanket exemption for all foreign healthcare workers or a comprehensive reopening of employment-based immigration channels.

Instead, the adjustment reflects a targeted effort to prevent disruption in physician staffing while maintaining the broader framework of immigration controls. It operates within existing law and does not alter the underlying statutory requirements governing most visa categories.

The development underscores both the importance of immigrant healthcare workers and the uneven nature of current policy. It offers a clearer path for some foreign-trained doctors while leaving the wider healthcare workforce subject to longstanding constraints. (AJPress)

DAteline PhiliPPines

Dela Rosa files new Senate bills as ethics questions persist over prolonged absence

by AJPress

MANILA — Senator Ronald

“Bato” dela Rosa has filed two new Senate measures while remaining absent from plenary proceedings for several months, underscoring the unusual position of a sitting lawmaker continuing legislative work remotely as questions surrounding his prolonged absence remain pending before the Senate ethics panel.

Senate records show that Dela Rosa authored Senate Bill No. 2080, or the proposed Counter Foreign Interference Act, and Senate Bill No. 2079, a measure concerning the national police clearance system. Both measures were formally received and referred to committees this week despite the senator’s continued nonappearance during Senate sessions.

The proposed Counter Foreign Interference Act seeks to criminalize foreign interference activities in the Philippines and imposes penalties that include life imprisonment for certain offenses. The bill was referred to the Senate Committees on National Defense and Security and Justice and Human Rights.

Senate Bill No. 2079 was referred to the Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs.

Legislative records indicate the measure seeks to strengthen and institutionalize the country’s police clearance framework through expanded record integration and centralized law enforcement databases.

Dela Rosa, a former chief of the Philippine National Police, has not physically attended Senate sessions since November 2025. His absence coincided with reports surrounding a possible International Criminal Court development connected to investigations into the Duterte administration’s anti-illegal drug campaign.

Public discussion surrounding the matter intensified after reports emerged last year regarding a purported ICC arrest warrant. However, the ICC itself has previously stated that official actions and warrants are announced only through formal court channels and authorized public releases. To date, no Philippine court or international tribunal has issued a final judgment establishing criminal liability against Dela Rosa. The senator’s prolonged absence has since become the subject of an ethics complaint before the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges, chaired by Senator JV Ejercito.

Ejercito confirmed that the committee had formally re-

quested Dela Rosa’s response regarding concerns tied to his continued absence from Senate proceedings. The ethics issue has also prompted discussion within the chamber over compensation and attendance rules applicable to lawmakers who remain unable or unwilling to physically report for legislative duties.

Ejercito separately suggested that Dela Rosa consider voluntarily waiving his salary and allowances during the period of absence, saying such a move could help address concerns raised in the complaint. Reports indicated that Dela Rosa’s camp was studying the proposal.

Despite his absence from the Senate floor, the filing of the two measures reflects that Dela Rosa continues to participate in legislative functions through authorship and submission of bills.

The developments also highlight a broader institutional question confronting the Senate: whether legislative work conducted remotely or through staff filings sufficiently satisfies the obligations of elected lawmakers whose physical attendance remains under scrutiny.

The Senate ethics proceedings remained pending, while both newly filed measures continued through the chamber’s standard committee referral process. n

Millions of taxpayers may qualify for COVID-era IRS penalty refunds as court challenge continues

by AJPress

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Millions of Americans who incurred IRS penalties during the COVID-19 pandemic may still have an opportunity to seek refunds or penalty relief following a federal court ruling that reinterpreted how emergency tax deadline extensions applied during the national disaster period.

Tax practitioners and the National Taxpayer Advocate are urging potentially affected taxpayers to act before July 10, 2026, which many advisers view as a critical deadline to preserve claims while the government continues to challenge the ruling in court.

At the center of the issue

is Kwong v. United States, a case decided by the U.S. Court of Federal Claims in late 2025. The court concluded that federal disaster relief provisions tied to the COVID-19 emergency effectively postponed certain federal tax deadlines from Jan. 20, 2020 through July 10, 2023.

The ruling has raised the possibility that some penalties and related interest assessed during that period may have been im-

properly imposed under the court’s interpretation of federal law.

The IRS has not adopted the ruling as nationwide policy, and the matter remains under litigation. Tax professionals say taxpayers should not assume relief will occur automatically.

The National Taxpayer Advocate has publicly encouraged affected taxpayers to review their IRS account transcripts and consider filing what are known as “protective refund claims” to preserve their legal rights while appeals continue.

Taxpayers who may potentially qualify include individuals or businesses that filed federal tax returns late during the pandemic period, paid late-filing or late-payment penalties, continue to owe IRS penalties from that timeframe, or incurred penalties tied to certain international information returns.

Tax advisers say eligibility may vary depending on the type of tax involved, the timing of payments and the nature of the assessed penalties.

To pursue a claim, taxpayers are generally being advised to obtain IRS account transcripts through their online IRS ac-

counts and identify penalties assessed between 2020 and 2023.

Affected taxpayers may then file IRS Form 843, formally known as “Claim for Refund and Request for Abatement,” by mail with the appropriate IRS service center.

Some practitioners recommend clearly labeling submissions as protective claims related to Kwong v. United States in order to preserve potential refund rights while the legal process continues.

The July 10, 2026 deadline has emerged as a key date because federal refund statutes impose strict filing limitations. Missing the deadline could prevent taxpayers from later recovering certain penalties or interest if the ruling is ultimately upheld.

The IRS has not announced any automatic refund or mass-abatement program connected to the case.

Tax professionals continue to caution taxpayers that the outcome remains uncertain and that the government could still prevail on appeal. Nonetheless, many advisers say filing a timely protective claim may help taxpayers preserve potential refund rights during the ongoing litigation. n

Marcos, Vietnam PM agree on longterm rice trade, food security deal

CEBU — President Ferdi-

nand Marcos Jr. and Vietnamese

Prime Minister Lê Minh Hung on Thursday agreed to establish a long-term rice trade mechanism and strengthen food security cooperation during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) and Related Meetings here. The leaders also discussed expanding cooperation in addressing transnational crimes and en-

hancing collaboration in tourism. “On agriculture, both sides agreed to establish a long-term rice trade mechanism aimed at ensuring stable supply and strengthening food security cooperation between the two countries. The two leaders also discussed expanding cooperation in addressing transnational crimes, including scam hubs and human trafficking, as well as enhancing collaboration in tourism,” the Presidential Communications Office said. In line with the 50th anniversary of their bilateral relationship

this year, the leaders expressed confidence that the milestone would lead to stronger cooperation in trade and economic engagement.

Marcos, during their meeting, also congratulated the prime minister on his assumption of office last April and welcomed him to his first Asean Summit.

Exactly a year ago, during the Asean Summit in Malaysia, Marcos and then Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh renewed their commitment to bolster diplomatic cooperation between their nations. n

House expected to impeach Sara...

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Senate for trial.

The anticipated vote follows the House Committee on Justice’s unanimous 53-0 finding of probable cause on April 29, 2026, after a series of hearings examining allegations involving confidential funds, asset disclosures and conduct in office.

On May 5, the committee formally transmitted its report and proposed articles of impeachment to the plenary, where the matter was referred to the Committee on Rules for scheduling and floor deliberations.

Rep. Gerville Luistro, who chaired the committee proceedings, said lawmakers were given time to review the findings before plenary action. House officials indicated procedural preparations were continuing ahead of Monday’s expected vote.

The impeachment articles accuse Duterte of betrayal of public trust and culpable violation of the Constitution. The complaint also cites allegations involving the alleged misuse of approximately P500 million in confidential funds under the Office of the Vice President and approximately P112.5 million under the Department of Education during Duterte’s tenure as education secretary.

Additional allegations cited in the complaint include alleged unexplained wealth, alleged discrepancies in Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth, bribery accusations and alleged threats involving President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

No criminal court has issued a final ruling establishing criminal liability related to allegations cited in the impeachment complaint. Impeachment proceedings are constitutionally separate from criminal prosecution and are political processes conducted by Congress.

Duterte has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and has characterized the renewed impeachment effort as politically motivated. Her legal allies have argued that the proceedings improperly revisit matters connected to the voided 2025 impeachment complaint and raised constitutional questions involving due process and

the one-year impeachment prohibition.

The vice president commented publicly on the proceedings while visiting The Hague, Netherlands, this week. Speaking during activities with overseas Filipino supporters on May 7, Duterte said the outcome of the impeachment proceedings was “written by God” and maintained that she was prepared to answer allegations in the proper constitutional forum if necessary.

Her visit drew heightened public and political attention because it coincided with continuing proceedings before the International Criminal Court involving former President Rodrigo Duterte in connection with his administration’s anti-drug campaign.

Duterte did not personally appear during the House committee hearings. Her lawyers and political allies instead challenged the constitutional basis of the proceedings and questioned the legitimacy of the renewed impeachment effort.

The current proceedings mark the second impeachment effort against Duterte within a little over a year. In February 2025, the House approved impeachment articles against the vice president, but the Supreme Court later voided the complaint after ruling that it violated the Constitution’s prohibition on successive impeachment proceedings within a oneyear period.

The Supreme Court subsequently affirmed that ruling with finality in January 2026 while clarifying that Duterte had not been absolved and that future impeachment complaints could still be filed once constitutional restrictions had elapsed.

Supporters of the renewed complaint argued this week that the current proceedings are constitutionally distinct because they underwent a full committee review after the expiration of the one-year constitutional restriction cited in the earlier ruling.

The impeachment proceedings have unfolded amid a broader political rupture between Duterte and President Marcos, former allies who won the 2022 elections on a joint ticket before their alliance deteriorated publicly. Duterte has also publicly indicated plans to seek the presidency in

2028, further increasing the political stakes surrounding the proceedings.

Meanwhile, Senate officials continued preliminary discussions this week regarding possible procedures for a trial should the House formally transmit the articles following Monday’s expected vote.

Senate leaders reiterated that the chamber would fulfill its constitutional responsibilities if impeachment articles are received from the House. Under the Constitution, conviction in an impeachment trial would require a two-thirds vote of senator-judges and could result in removal from office and perpetual disqualification from public office.

Duterte remains vice president, no Senate impeachment trial had formally commenced, and no court had rendered a final criminal judgment related to allegations raised in the impeachment proceedings. n

OPiniOn

The heartbeat of global healthcare: The enduring legacy of Filipino nurses

AS National Nurses Week is observed across the United States this May, hospitals, healthcare systems and public officials are once again recognizing the profession that stands closest to the daily realities of illness, recovery and human vulnerability.

Yet in cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago and New York City, the story of American nursing cannot be fully told without acknowledging the extraordinary role of Filipino nurses, a community whose presence has become deeply woven into the fabric of modern healthcare. For generations, nurses from the Philippines have helped staff hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers and public health systems across the United States and around the world. Their influence extends far beyond workforce numbers. In many institutions, Filipino nurses have become associated with clinical reliability, adaptability under pressure and a culture of care that combines technical discipline with emotional endurance.

Editorial

Their story traces back more than a century.

Following the United States’ acquisition of the Philippines in 1898, American colonial authorities established an English-language educational system that included Western-style nursing instruction modeled after U.S. medical institutions. American-trained nurse educators were sent to the Philippines, while Filipino students were introduced to clinical training designed to meet American healthcare standards.

The Long View

Manuel l. Quezon III

A USEFUL approach to the seemingly random, unconnected popping up of news items is to look for patterns that emerge. But you must keep in mind the larger trends to discover how they’re interrelated. Three things over the past week suggest the continuing consolidation of power by the administration while weakening the scope and scale of the influence of the Dutertes and their allies in government.

The first comes in two parts, because it’s composed of two actions by the Supreme Court. There was a decision to declare the removal of former Deputy Ombudsman Melchor Carandang illegal, and thus null and void. And there was another of its actions: its elastic definition of “forthwith” with regard to the Constitution’s provisions on impeachment. The rehabilitation of Carandang required a repudiation of one notable instance of “sampling” by former President Rodrigo Duterte, who wielded his power to eliminate representative individuals or officials to more widely intimidate anyone who might dare oppose him.

The political implications of

That historical foundation would later shape one of the world’s most enduring healthcare migration pipelines.

By the mid-20th century, nursing had emerged as one of the Philippines’ most respected professions, particularly for women seeking financial mobility, international opportunity and professional advancement. Families increasingly viewed nursing not only as stable employment but as a pathway capable of supporting entire households through overseas work and remittances.

The passage of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 further strengthened that connection. As American hospitals faced recurring staffing shortages, Filipino nurses, already trained in English and familiar with American medical frameworks, became highly sought after across the United States.

Today, Filipino nurses remain among the largest groups of internationally educated nurses in the country, particularly in states with large Filipino-American populations including California, Nevada, New York and Hawaii.

Their contributions became especially visible during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Researchers, labor organizations and healthcare advocates documented the disproportionate impact the pandemic had on Filipino and Filipino-American healthcare workers, many of whom served in frontline hospital roles with sustained exposure to critically ill patients. Nurses frequently worked extended shifts inside overwhelmed intensive care units while simultaneously supporting relatives in both the Unit-

ed States and the Philippines during a period of global uncertainty.

For many Filipino families, nursing has long represented sacrifice measured quietly rather than publicly. Behind the profession are stories of parents working overnight shifts to finance college

BERLIN—The death of two university students, a journalist, and other civilians in a Philippine Army operation in Toboso, Negros Occidental, has once again exposed the pervasive perception of many Filipinos that if you’re an activist, you are a communist who supports armed rebellion.

On April 19, the government reported that as a result of a clash between government forces and suspected communist rebels, 19 people were killed in the town of Toboso. Netizens and journalists, who called for an independent probe of the deaths, reported that their online posts were peppered with comments directly accusing and scoffing at the two students and the journalist as armed communists who deserved the tragic fate that they suffered.

Even outside the Toboso trag-

the Supreme Court’s decision are that it allowed Duterte to get away with an abuse of power when it was politically convenient for him, but at the same time, the Supreme Court can be considered to have declared itself free of any informal obligations to him. On the other hand, the elastic definition of “forthwith” can be understood to be a declaration of internal solidarity: institutionally, it remains hostile to the idea of impeachment, and is not about to disown its previous obstructionist attitude to the entire process.

Second, the unanimous decision by the House justice committee to send the articles of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte to plenary (and Senate President Vicente Sotto III’s pointed statement that he will continue to define “forthwith” when it comes to the Senate’s actions once it receives articles of impeachment from the House) was an institutional declaration of intent. If the evidence supplied wasn’t damning (which it was), the Vice President’s political alliances proved no hindrance to the proceedings—a demonstration of weakness on her part.

Third, the disgrace of Michael Defensor, his wife, and son, cannot be detached from his failed attempt to corral alleged Philippine Marines to provide testimony damaging to the administration.

edy, there has long been a widespread misconception among Filipinos that if you are keenly interested in the plight of the poor, if you are vocal about uplifting the lives of laborers and farmers, and if you express your support for the impoverished through protest actions or immersions in their communities, you are a communist rebel. This association between having a heart for the poor and communism is a vestige of the Cold War years, when countries were divided in their allegiance between the United States as the leader of the democratic world on one hand, and the Soviet Union as the bastion of communism on the other hand. If you are pro-business, you are pro-democracy, and if you are pro-labor, you are pro-communism, went the brainwashing propaganda of the pro-American side of the political divide. The Philippines should learn from European countries, which embraced some of the socialist features of communism, even as they thrived as democratic

The problem was that neither the accusations nor the accusers ended up being credible. But the attempt was made, and someone had to pay. So, the Defensors paid. Impunity ends where insinuations that others practice it begin.

What these events combined to communicate was that in their respective arenas, the House and Senate majorities are strong, the Supreme Court remains strong and without debts to pay to either the executive or the legislature, and past affiliations are no protection to those who would try to cause trouble to the present dispensation—in other words, the executive, too, is strong. But in the face of all three, the Vice President and her shrinking number of friends are weak.

Ever since her book on the Lopezes came out in 2001, I’ve found the analytical lens put forward by historian Mina Roces to be exceedingly useful. She proposed using “malakas at mahina” as the key analytical concept for understanding power dynamics in our society. Those who are “malakas”—considered strong—are those who use their positions of power ruthlessly to benefit their kinship group, whether actual relatives or allies.

Being able to bend or break the rules to benefit your kinship group is admired in our society, u PAGE 7

Activism is not communism Stronger and

states. This is true, for example, for the Federal Republic of Germany, which used to be divided between democratic West Germany and communist East Germany. Reunified Germany honors the father of communism, the German philosopher Karl Marx, by continuing to name one of its major thoroughfares in the capital city of Berlin after him. In fact, there are 550 streets, alleys, and squares still named after Marx in current-day Germany. In the Philippines, even merely uttering the word Karl Marx would get one branded as a communist; what more if a town or city names one of its roads after Marx. The socialist features of Germany, which are also true for many other European countries, are some of the attributes that are envied by Third-World countries. Education is free from nursery to university, and lunch is free for all grade schoolers and for kids of low-income families in high school. Health care, pension, and unemployment benefits u PAGE 7

Mike: Nice to meet you. I’m a retired businessman. When my store burned down, rather than rebuild it, I took the insurance money and retired here.

John: You know, I’m a retired businessman, too. When a flood washed away my store, I took the insurance money and retired here, too.

Mike is silent for a while, then he asks John, “How do you start a flood?”

There was a time when we could crack jokes about crises and disruptions, but now those jokes don’t elicit much fun or humor. Crises are now happening all over the place.

One businessman on the verge of giving up hope says, “Due to the current energy crisis. The light at the end of the tunnel has been turned off.”

The headlines these days read like a suspense novel nobody asked to subscribe to. Crises after crises grab the headlines. Conflict in the Middle East. Market volatility. Supply chain interrup-

tions. Costs are going up like they’re on a fitness program. For many business owners, especially those running MSMEs, the question quietly (or loudly) creeps in: “What does this mean for my business?” It’s a fair question. But the better one is this: “How should I respond?” Because while we cannot control global events, we always have a say in how we respond to them. History shows that businesses rarely fail solely due to difficult circumstances. More often, they struggle because their responses are harder to manage than the challenges themselves. Panic can make costly decisions seem urgent, while fear can escalate minor issues into significant mistakes. Confusion often leads to poor strategies. This highlights an important but often overlooked truth:

A crisis is a truth-teller. It reveals the discipline that has been quietly built over time.

It also exposes weaknesses that were hidden during more prosperous times. In strong economies, even average systems can persist, but in tough periods, only strong ones endure. As one business owner noted, “When the tide goes out, you don’t just see who’s swimming naked — you also see who forgot how to

swim.” While not comforting, this is accurate. So, what does a wise response look like?

First, protect your cash flow. In good times, profit gets the applause. In difficult times, cash flow pays the bills. You can be “profitable” and still go out of business. That’s not a contradiction — that’s reality. So tighten where you need to tighten. Review expenses like a detective reviewing a case. Accelerate collections. Negotiate terms. Every peso moving in and out of your business now holds more significance than before. Cash is not just king. In times like these, cash is oxygen.

Second, build flexibility into your operations. Worldwide disruptions can quickly impact established relationships and timelines. If your business relies on one single source, route or assumption, it is vulnerable. Now is the time to establish backup suppliers, examine alternative channels and diversify where possible. While this may increase costs, stability often requires investment — and instability can be far more expensive.

Third, stay close to your customers. Uncertainty changes customer behavior, making purchases more deliberate and u PAGE 7

SINCE President Donald Trump took office in January 2025, the US defense establishment and armed services have displayed a sense of urgency in the face of a possible Chinese armed invasion of Taiwan by 2027.   This heightened sense of urgency was reflected in how the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the US armed services conducted Balikatan 2025.  From April 21 to May 21, 2025, the American and Filipino armed forces conducted the annual military exercise to strengthen the two allies’ defense capabilities.

During the 2025 Balikatan military exercise, US military forces and the AFP coordinated operations across the land, sea, air, space and cyber domains. The exercise covered a range of combat and non-combat scenarios, from conventional warfare to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

This ensured the two allies’ armed forces were ready to address various contingencies. Filipino and American military officials confirmed that the 2025 Balikatan exercise would include a full-scale battle test between the US and Philippine armed forces. This aimed to show the achievements of the AFP’s force modernization efforts and the two allies’ capabilities to operate as a team to advance their shared security and defense interests.

During a press conference, US Marine Corps Lt. General James Glynm announced: “that the US and Philippine (armed) forces have built up the capability to address any major act of (Chinese) aggression in the Taiwan Straits or the South China Sea after years of joint exercises.”

A heightened sense of expediency  Balikatan 2026 is significant as it reflects not only Philippine-US security concerns but also multilateral efforts and determination to prepare for a possible Chinese armed invasion of Taiwan in 2027.

On April 20, 2026, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, General Romeo Brawner, announced the start of the annual military drill Balikatan (Shoulder-to-Shoulder) 2026.

Originally conceived as a bilateral military exercise between the Philippines and the United States as a reaffirmation of the two allies’ commitment to the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT), this year’s Balikatan exercise involves the deployment of 17,000 troops from other American bilateral and multilateral treaty allies from Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France and most significantly, Japan. This year’s Balikatan military exercise is the largest in terms of the number of participating countries. What used to be a bilateral US-Philippine military drill, Balikatan 2026, is now a multilateral defense endeavor involving five additional states.   This is the culmination of

In California Governor Race, Single-Payer Is a Litmus Test. There’s Still No Way To Pay for It.

by Christine Mai-DuC KFF Health News

TODAY, leading Democrats in the wide-open race to succeed Newsom have embraced single-payer as a political necessity, an answer to voters fed up with rising premiums and other spiraling healthcare costs.

But with no clear front-runner, they are sparring among themselves in debates and political ads over who is most committed to a government-run model. No candidate has outlined how California would fund comprehensive health coverage for its 40 million residents, leaving voters unable to discern which candidate has a concrete plan for the nation’s most populous state.

Healthcare and political experts said the concept of single-payer has shifted from progressive pipe dream a decade ago to today’s mainstream talking points in a state where Democrats outnumber Republicans nearly 2 to 1. Democrats have pledged the model as the best way to lower costs in an attempt to woo voters worried about affordability as ballots arrive for the June 2 primary. The top two Republicans, meanwhile, have dismissed government-run healthcare as a “disaster” and “socialism.”

“In many ways, single-payer healthcare has become a progressive litmus test,” said Larry Levitt, a former White House policy adviser and a healthcare expert at KFF, a health information nonprofit that includes KFF Health News.

Few voters fully understand the term single-payer, let alone expect the next governor to achieve it, Levitt said. Rather, he added, the term has become more of a signal to voters about a candidate’s approach to healthcare reform.

Xavier Becerra, the former U.S. Health and Human Services secretary, who for decades backed single-payer healthcare in Congress, has come under criticism from opponents for a nuanced but clear shift away from single-payer. It came after Becerra secured an endorsement from the California Medical Association, a powerful group representing doctors and a longtime opponent of single-payer healthcare bills in California.

At a May 5 debate put on by CNN, Becerra declared his support for “Medicare for All,” a proposal for a federally run system that’s been stalled for years, but he declined to say whether he’d pursue a California-led effort. He said his immediate focus would be on mitigating the drastic federal cuts expected to hit low-income and disabled enrollees in Medi-Cal, the state’s Medicaid program, which covers more than a third of residents.

Becerra is counting on voters not to distinguish between the often-confused terms single-payer, Medicare for All, and universal coverage, noting during the debate that “Californians don’t care what you call it, so long as they have affordable healthcare.”

“A lot of people aren’t clear what single-payer is, and they need a metaphor to understand it,” said Celinda Lake, a Democratic strategist and one of the lead pollsters for former President Joe Biden’s 2020 campaign.

Billionaire activist Tom Steyer, who’s touted his self-funding as a signal he can’t be bought, has emerged as the race’s most vocal advocate of single-payer after opposing it during a short-lived 2020 presidential bid.

As governor, Steyer has said, he would pass legislation backed by the California Nurses Association that has failed to come to fruition under Newsom’s tenure. Pressed on how he would cover the estimated $731.4 billion cost, Steyer told KFF Health News that “God is going to be in the details.”

At a forum last year, former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter said she didn’t believe achieving such a system was realistic in the near term, but the Orange County Democrat later told party delegates that she would “deliver single-payer.” Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, Democrats who are trailing

PAGE 6

Nicholas Kaufman moves to withdraw as Duterte’s ICC lawyer ahead of trial phase

by Kristine Daguno-Bersamina Philstar.com

MANILA — Nicholas Kaufman has asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) to allow him to withdraw as legal counsel for Rodrigo Duterte as the crimes against humanity of murder case against the former president enters preparations for trial proceedings.

In a filing dated May 8, Kaufman said his engagement as Duterte’s lead counsel had ended on March 31, 2026.

“In light of the aforementioned, in accordance with Regulation 78(1) of the Regulations of the Court, I hereby respectfully request leave to withdraw as counsel for Mr. Rodrigo Roa Duterte in the case of the Prosecutor v. Rodrigo Roa Duterte,” Kaufman said.

their competitors in the polls, don’t support single-payer. The top two vote-getters — regardless of party — advance to the November general election.

Some of the most seasoned politicians have failed to deliver single-payer. Newsom, who campaigned on the promise of being a “healthcare governor,” dialed back his ambitions upon taking office, choosing instead to pursue “universal access” to health coverage under a series of Medi-Cal expansions and efforts to contain healthcare spending.

Vermont, which remains the only state to pass a single-payer healthcare law, reversed course when leaders there couldn’t identify a funding source.

To enact single-payer, California would need permission from the federal government to redirect billions of dollars from Medicaid, Medicare, and other funding that currently flows to the system — approval not likely to come from the Trump administration.

More than half of adults nationally say healthcare costs will have a major impact on whom they vote for in November, according an April KFF poll.

Danielle Cendejas, a Los Angeles-based Democratic consultant who works with state legislative candidates, said single-payer healthcare increasingly appears on candidate questionnaires from small-business advocates as well as hyperlocal Democratic clubs, in state legislative races and national union endorsements.

What most California voters want to hear, Cendejas said, is how candidates plan to give them more immediate relief from higher premiums, expensive drug costs, and long waits to access care.

The high price tag doesn’t faze Jennifer Easton, a 63-year-old Democrat from Oakland, who said other countries with similar models have proved they can lower costs. She said she supports a single-payer health system because it’s clear to her that Americans have reached the limits of working within the existing system. But she isn’t expecting any of the current candidates to succeed in implementing one, and she hasn’t decided whom to support.

“No one can in four years,” she said. Seeing a candidate enthusiastically support the concept gives her a good idea of their philosophy. “It is, if we’re lucky, a 20-year, 25-year plan.”

Rob Stutzman, a Republican political consultant who advised former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, said while Americans may be supportive of single-payer in polls, focus groups suggest that approval drops quickly when voters realize it could mean losing their current doctor or insurance plan.

At the CNN debate, Steve Hilton, the Republican candidate President Donald Trump has endorsed, said Californians would end up with subpar patient care and “taxes sky high to pay for it,” like in his native United Kingdom.

Instead, Hilton suggested the state stop providing “free healthcare for illegal immigrants who shouldn’t even be in the country in the first place.”

Leadership in times of crises...

altering priorities. If you continue with the same sales approach and assumptions, your message may not resonate. Engage with customers. Ask questions, listen and adjust accordingly. When customers are cautious, clear communication creates trust, which becomes especially valuable in difficult times. Fourth, focus on your core strengths. Tough times do not favor scattered efforts; they reward clarity and focus. Identify what you do best and what your customers value most, then focus on those areas. Let go of activities that are no longer effective. As one leader said, “In good times, we ask, ‘What else can we do?’ In tough times, we ask, ‘What must

we stop doing?’” This question can be critical for business survival.

Finally, lead with composure. Your team observes not only your strategy but also your demeanor. If you remain steady, they will draw confidence from your example.

Leadership is most visible during difficult times. You do not need to have all the answers, but you must demonstrate clarity, honesty and calm. In uncertainty, people seek steady leadership rather than perfection.

Disruption is a constant, though it takes different forms over time. Based on years of experience witnessing various crises, I have seen that strong businesses are not built on per-

fect conditions, but on resilient thinking, disciplined execution and leaders who choose clarity over chaos. When external conditions become turbulent, focus on creating stability within your business. Sometimes, quiet stability becomes your greatest competitive advantage.

Catch Kongversations with Francis on YouTube and all major podcast platforms: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and more. Plus, listen to Inspiring Excellence wherever you stream. (Philstar.com)

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

Activism is not communism...

PAGE 6

receive subsidies from the government. The government also supports childcare from age 0 to the time the child goes to school. Public transport is additionally subsidized by the government, allowing passengers to have unlimited use of all regional and local public transport across the country for the fixed price of 63 euros per month because “(m) obility should not be a luxury—it must be universally accessible so that everyone can participate in society.”

To fund its welfare state features, Germany heavily imposes taxes with as much as a 45 percent tax rate for the rich. The government also collects substantial social security contributions from employers and employees. Even foreigners temporarily staying in Germany can feel and benefit from the extensive governmental services financed by heavy taxation. If we listen intently to the so-called leftist groups that are active in our Congress, in uni-

versities, and among activist organizations, we will recognize the welfare state features of European countries as among those that they have long been fighting for. In particular, the Makabayan bloc of congresspersons has been articulating these welfare state aspirations since they started sending members to Congress. However, they are drowned out and smeared by accusations that they have ties to and are extensions of the Communist Party of the Philippines—New People’s Army, which seeks to overthrow our republican government and replace it with a communist form of government. Whether the accusations are true or not, the merits of the Makabayan bloc’s advocacies (and all activist groups espousing the same aspirations for that matter) for the Philippines to incorporate socialist features in our country’s governance must be assessed on their merits and examined from the experiences of other countries. Besides,

The request is still subject to the approval of ICC Trial Chamber III, the chamber handling Duterte’s case involving three counts of crimes against humanity tied to his administration’s anti-drug campaign.

former president’s arrest on March 11, 2025 until the ICC Appeals Chamber released its ruling in April affirming the court’s jurisdiction over the case.

what better way to render their revolutionary ambitions moot than by integrating their social and economic prescriptions into our current governmental system.

The neoliberal model of free-market capitalism, trickle-down economics, privatization, and minimal government intervention that piggybacked on our democratic system of government, has led to the seriously failing society that we have today, where the rich are getting ridiculously richer, while the poor are insanely getting poorer. It’s time we shed the Cold War propaganda that has blinded us to perdition and look to the European model of social democracy. (Inquirer.net)

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

* * * Comments to fleamarketofideas@gmail. com

Kaufman said the defense team visited Duterte on May 7, during which the former president expressed his “desire to hire replacement counsel.

According to Kaufman, a replacement lawyer whose identity was redacted in the public filing has already agreed to immediately assume representation and attend the status conference scheduled on May 27.

The lawyer also said Duterte was reorganizing his defense team ahead of the trial phase of the case.

“I am convinced that the continuity and efficacy of Mr Duterte’s representation will remain assured through [the unnamed counsel], who has a wealth of experience at the International Criminal Court, and the existing defense team,” Kaufman said.

He added that he would continue to comply with confidentiality and record-keeping obligations under the ICC Code of Professional Conduct even if his withdrawal is approved.

Kaufman represented Duterte from the time of the

On April 22, the ICC Appeals Chamber ruled that the tribunal has jurisdiction over Duterte’s case. A day later, the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber confirmed all charges against the former president. Duterte’s associate counsel, Dov Jacobs, also moved to withdraw from the defense team, citing the former president’s decision to reorganize his legal team in anticipation of trial proceedings.

In a separate ruling dated May 8, ICC Trial Chamber III approved Jacobs’ withdrawal.

“The Request indicates that the Accused has expressed an interest in reorganising his Defence team in anticipation for the trial phase of this case,” the chamber said.

The ICC also noted that Jacobs’ withdrawal would not prejudice Duterte’s legal representation, saying the lead counsel and the rest of the defense team remained in place at the time of the ruling.

The next status conference in the case is scheduled later this month. n

Stronger and weaker...

PAGE 6 and demonstrating it repeatedly conveys prestige and influence. It has less to do with social class and more with access to power: someone poor connected to the powerful can be “malakas,” Roces says, while a wealthy person who lacks the necessary connections can be perceived as “mahina.”

On the other hand, if someone is unwilling (or unable!) to leverage power to benefit their kinship network, they are considered “mahina” by society. Following the rules, by this measure, does not evoke admiration; it is viewed with contempt.

Roces calls the give-and-take, the push-and-pull of the powerful

as “politica de familia,” which she says dates to the precolonial era, with “utang na loob” as the kind of glue that binds everyone together; the manner in which families engage in competition to become strong is known as “palakasan.”

This is incompatible with ideas, ideals, and systems introduced by colonialism, which officially puts a premium on the rule of law, a professional bureaucracy, merit and ethical behavior, and on placing the national interest over familial interests. This tension often led leaders to criticize each other based on Western norms while practicing Filipino kinship politics.

Octa Research, in its March 19 to 25 survey, puts support for the

VP’s impeachment at 69 percent nationally, 81 percent in the National Capital Region, and 69 percent in Balance of Luzon, a staggering 83 percent in the Visayas, and an astounding 61 percent in Mindanao. That the two remaining bailiwicks of the Dutertes have registered these numbers sends a message about the Veep: “mahina.” (Inquirer.net)

*

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

* * *

Email: mlquezon3@gmail.com; Twitter: @ mlq3

Balikatan 2026...

PAGE 6 is motivated by a growing concern over China’s increasing aggression in the South China Sea and against Taiwan. Since 2023, the Philippines has entered into several defense agreements with Japan, New Zealand, Canada, and most recently, France.

The most impactful among these security agreements is the signing and the ratification of the Philippine-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA).  The agreement provides for simplified procedures and legal guarantees for the deployment of troops and equipment between the two US treaty allies and security partners for the conduct of joint exercises and disaster responses.

Before the RAA, JSDF’s participation in military drills in the Philippines primarily involved observing exercises and providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

In view of the RAA, JSDF forces are participating in combat training scenarios involving defensive operations while bearing lethal weapons, representing a dramatic and significant departure from their previous roles in Balikatan exercises.

The highlight of the JSDF’s participation includes the deployment of 1,400 combat troops and the firing of the Type 88 anti-ship cruise missiles to sink a decommissioned Philippine Navy (PN) minesweeper off the northern coast of Luzon.

For Tokyo, Japanese participation in Balikatan 2026 marks a historic break in Japan’s security policy, as this involved the deployment of SDF forces in Southeast Asia.

This highlights a major shift from its passive defense posture to

expeditionary military operations overseas and the forging of security ties between Japan and the Philippines in the face of possible China’s armed invasion of Taiwan in 2027.

From Manila’s perspective, the deployment of troops from the Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) marked the first time since the end of the Second World War that Japanese combat units set foot on Philippine soil.

It should be remembered that the forces from the Japanese Imperial Army from Taiwan invaded the Philippines immediately after the Japanese Imperial Navy attacked American forces at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.

This led to the brutal Japanese occupation of the Philippines, culminating in the 1945 Battle of Manila that led to the death of 100,000 Filipino civilians. However, in April 2026, the AFP warmly welcomed Japanese combat troops as other American treaty allies and security partners.

General Brawner emphasized this point when he stated: “Eightyone years later, this is the first time we will have Japanese combat troops again on Philippine soil. Before, we were on opposite sides. This time, we find ourselves on the same side.”

A dress rehearsal for a 2027 Taiwan contingency?

Balikatan 2026 also features the cutting-edge multilateral training across air, land, sea, space and cyber domains. Field training exercises are being conducted across the Philippine archipelago, culminating in capstone events that rehearse complex multilateral warfighting capabilities in maritime security,

The heartbeat of global

PAGE 6

immigrants supporting relatives across oceans, and healthcare workers carrying the emotional burden of caring for strangers while separated from their own loved ones. The profession demands technical precision, but also extraordinary emotional resilience. Healthcare leaders and advocacy organizations have increasingly emphasized that recognition of Filipino nurses should extend beyond ceremonial praise. Calls have grown for stronger protections against exploitative international recruitment practices, improved mental health support for healthcare workers facing burnout, and greater Filipino representation in hospital leadership

and healthcare policy-making. Many Filipino nurses describe their work through the cultural principle of pagkalinga, a deeply rooted ethic of compassion and responsibility toward others. In practice, that philosophy often manifests not through grand gestures, but through consistency: the extra conversation with a frightened patient, the willingness to take difficult shifts, and the instinct to treat care as both profession and personal obligation. Over time, Filipino nurses have become more than a workforce within American medicine. They have become a constant presence in hospitals, clinics and healthcare systems across the country, earning the trust of generations of patients, physicians and fellow

coastal defense and the integration of combined and joint live-fire drills.

This includes integrated air and missile defense exercises and counter-landing live-fire drills in Zambales and Palawan provinces, both facing the South China Sea.

The most significant of these live-fire drills is the holding, for the first time, of a Philippine-US maritime strike drill on the island of Itbayat, the northernmost point of the Philippine archipelago, which lies about 155 kilometers from Taiwan.

The drill involved transferring and deploying US Marine Corps and Army missile launchers from Luzon to Itbayat.  Medium-range ballistic and cruise missiles fired from US Marine and Army launchers on this island can reach targets at ranges of 115 to 310 nautical miles, effectively covering maritime areas of Northern Luzon to the southern tip of Taiwan.

The capability of these launchers enabled American and Filipino forces to effectively deter any Chinese armed aggression in the Luzon Strait and Taiwan. This showed that this year’s Balikatan is a multilateral dress rehearsal in light of China’s irredentist and aggressive agenda against Taiwan in 2027. (Philstar.com)

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

* * * Dr. Renato De Castro is a trustee,  convenor and

healthcare...

healthcare workers alike. This National Nurses Week, amid ceremonies, proclamations and tributes, the recognition carries a particular resonance for the Filipino community.

The history of Filipino nurses is ultimately a story about migration, education, endurance and service across borders. It is also a reminder that some of the most essential pillars of American healthcare were built not only through policy or infrastructure, but through generations of immigrants who arrived with training, discipline and an unwavering commitment to care for others.

In hospital corridors across America, that legacy continues quietly and steadily every single day. (AJPress)

Palace confirms prolonged estrangement between President Marcos and Senator Imee Marcos

Remulla says Zaldy Co seeking asylum in France while staying in Paris luxury residence

by AJPress

MANILA — Malacañang has confirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his sister, Senator Imee Marcos, have not spoken for nearly three years, publicly acknowledging a long-standing family estrangement that has increasingly unfolded alongside political tensions within the administration’s orbit.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President confirmed the distance after being asked about the senator’s recent remarks describing their relationship as “non-existent.” Castro added that Senator Marcos has not attended family gatherings or family events during that period.

The Palace maintained that the President does not harbor ill feelings toward his sister, although Castro acknowledged that he appeared disappointed by some of her public comments involv-

ing him, his administration and members of the family. Malacañang declined to elaborate further on the cause of the estrangement and said the senator would be in the best position to explain the matter publicly. Senator Marcos had earlier said she continues to care about her brother’s well-being, particularly his health, but acknowledged that she avoids family reunions because they are “not comfortable” for her.

The disclosure places into the public record what had long been visible through the siblings’ increasingly separate political positioning and limited public interaction.

In recent months, Senator Marcos has occasionally departed from the administration’s messaging on several national issues and has publicly commented on matters involving the President’s health and leadership. The Palace has repeatedly rejected speculation surrounding Marcos’ medical condition and dismissed related rumors

circulating online and in political discussions. Separate allegations previously raised publicly by the senator concerning the President’s alleged drug use were denied by the Palace. International wire reports at the time noted that presidential aides cited prior drug testing results in rejecting the claims. To date, no official finding or court determination has established wrongdoing related to those allegations.

The Palace has maintained that the President remains focused on governance and does not intend to publicly escalate personal disagreements within the family.

The Marcos siblings remain among the country’s most prominent political figures, making the prolonged silence between them both a private family matter and a development closely watched within Philippine political circles.

Neither Malacañang nor Senator Marcos has publicly indicated any immediate effort toward reconciliation. n

Thurmond outlines policy agenda on housing, healthcare, and immigration in media briefing

California schools chief presents proposals on affordability, public systems, and economic relief as race remains wide open with no clear front-runner

by AJPress by AJPress

LOS ANGELES — California

Superintendent of Public In-

struction Tony Thurmond used a policy briefing with American Community Media to lay out a campaign agenda centered on housing expansion, healthcare access, immigration reform, and economic relief, offering detailed responses to questions from ethnic and community media.

The session, part of a broader series connecting candidates with local and ethnic press, provided a direct account of Thurmond’s positions as he competes in a crowded 2026 gubernatorial race that remains unsettled, with polling showing no dominant candidate and a large share of undecided voters.

Personal history and governing lens

Thurmond began by situating his policy views in his upbringing, describing early economic hardship and family disruption.

“I’m a California native… my mom was an immigrant from Panama… while my dad was off in Vietnam, my mom was raising four kids by herself,” he said.

He described the impact of his mother’s death when he was six.

“My mom lost her battle to cancer and her four kids got split up.”

He said those experiences inform his approach to governance.

“I believe that a better California is possible and that we have to build it together.”

Housing supply constraints and structural affordability

Housing costs were a central focus of the discussion. Thurmond identified limited supply as a key factor.

“We are experiencing a crisis of supply and demand. The state has not invested in affordable housing in over a decade.”

He said his platform includes a plan to build two million housing units by 2030.

“One of the signature components of my platform is a plan to build 2 million housing units by the year 2030.”

The proposal includes use of public land and potential bond financing. He also acknowledged limits to direct price control.

“The governor and the state can’t just make prices go down, but we can create conditions that ultimately will support bringing costs down.”

Housing has emerged as a central issue across the field, with multiple candidates advancing competing proposals as affordability pressures continue to dominate voter concerns statewide.

Fiscal policy and redistribution framework Thurmond said he supports taxing high-wealth individuals to fund relief for lower- and middle-income households.

“I plan to tax billionaires and to take the proceeds… to provide a tax credit to working and middle-class Californians,” he said.

He said such policies would need broader coordination to avoid capital movement.

“If California does pass a wealth tax, it should also be in conjunction with the national wealth tax.” Wealth taxation and cost-of-

MANILA — Philippine Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Friday, May 8, that former congressman Zaldy Co is believed to be staying in a luxury residence in Paris while seeking political asylum in France amid ongoing corruption and graft investigations in the Philippines.

Speaking during a public forum, Remulla said Philippine authorities had monitored Co’s movements across several European countries following his departure from the Philippines last year.

The interior secretary claimed Co was staying in a large residence near the Champs-Élysées district and described the property as a 10-bedroom mansion valued at an estimated 200 million euros.

Remulla did not publicly present documents establishing ownership of the property or confirming Co’s legal connection to the residence.

Philippine officials previously confirmed that Co was temporarily held by Czech authorities in April after traveling with an

expired Philippine passport. The Department of Justice later clarified that Co was not arrested on the basis of a Philippine criminal warrant during the incident. Government officials said Co later left Czech custody and continued traveling within the Schengen area. Remulla said Co’s recent movements allegedly included Portugal, Italy, France and the Czech Republic before he attempted to enter Germany, where he was briefly detained over immigration-related concerns.

According to Remulla, Co has since filed an application for political asylum in France. French authorities have not publicly commented on the reported asylum application as of Friday.

Co previously chaired the House Committee on Appropriations during the first half of the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and has been linked to investigations involving alleged irregularities in flood control and infrastructure projects.

Philippine prosecutors have filed criminal complaints tied to a P289.5-million road dike project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro. In-

vestigators alleged that project accomplishment reports and certifications contained discrepancies and questionable documentation. Authorities are also investigating broader allegations that billions of pesos allocated for flood control projects may have been diverted through anomalous contracts and regional infrastructure projects.

Co, through previous public statements from his camp and legal representatives, has denied wrongdoing. To datea, no Philippine court has issued a final ruling establishing criminal liability against him in the pending cases. Malacañang previously confirmed that President Marcos met with the French and Czech ambassadors on April 30 following Co’s release from Czech custody. Philippine officials said the president expressed concern over the developments and the difficulties encountered in securing Co’s return to the Philippines.

Philippine authorities have not publicly confirmed whether a formal extradition request had already been filed before French authorities. n

Friendster is back. What does this mean outside nostalgia?

Amid a social media landscape marked by intrusive ads and stolen data, Friendster promises a return-to-roots approach to social connection

by Carl Martin agustin Inquirer.net

living relief have become recurring themes in the race, reflecting broader debates among candidates over how to address inequality and rising household expenses.

Immigration posture and federal constraints

On immigration, Thurmond reiterated his call to abolish U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a proposal that would require federal action.

“I was the first candidate to call for abolishing ICE,” he said.

He questioned the agency’s function.

“ICE was supposed to be a way to keep us safe… But who are they keeping us safe from?”

He said current enforcement affects workers in several sectors.

“Look at who’s being deported. People who work as child care workers and farm workers.”

He said he would pursue state-level measures affecting detention facilities and work with Congress on broader reforms.

The issue remains politically contested, with immigration enforcement and federal-state coordination continuing to divide candidates and policymakers.

Healthcare access and system design

Thurmond linked his healthcare position to a personal experience involving his brother.

“I had a brother who lost his job and lost his insurance right at the time that he developed a very rare liver disorder,” he said.

He said the lack of insurance limited access to care.

“Because he didn’t have insurance, he couldn’t see a doctor and his condition worsened to the point that he lost his life.”

“He was only 35 years old.”

He said the experience informs his support for broader coverage.

“No person should lose their life simply because they don’t have health insurance.”

He reiterated support for a single-payer system, a proposal that would require legislative approval and coordination with federal healthcare programs.

Education pathways and workforce alignment

Thurmond said economic mobility should include both higher education and vocational pathways.

“It’s not just about getting a college education… we have to support those who want to work in an apprenticeship training pro-

gram.”

He proposed a tuition deferral model.

“When they graduate and they get a job, they start to pay back… This becomes the pool of dollars for the next group of students.”

The proposal reflects broader discussions in the state about workforce development and alternative career pathways.

Small business environment and regulatory approach

Asked about business conditions, Thurmond emphasized support for small enterprises.

“Small business is the backbone of our economy,” he said.

He said he would pursue regulatory changes and expand access to financing and state contracts.

Business climate concerns, including regulatory burdens and capital movement, have been raised by multiple candidates as part of the broader economic debate.

Electoral posture and campaign viability

Thurmond said polling does not determine election outcomes.

“I just don’t think that polls elect anyone. People do,” he said.

He said he intends to continue his campaign.

“My name is on the ballot. I’m in it to the end. And I’m running to win.”

Recent polling indicates a fragmented field with no clear front-runner and a significant share of undecided voters, creating an environment in which late shifts in support could influence the outcome of the primary.

Policy scope and institutional limits

The briefing provided a direct account of Thurmond’s policy positions as he seeks to gain traction in the gubernatorial race. Several proposals he outlined, including changes to immigration enforcement, healthcare systems, and tax policy, would require action beyond the governor’s office, including legislative approval or federal involvement.

The event is part of a continuing series of candidate briefings, with additional coverage expected as other candidates present their platforms.

SOCIAL media in the past years has greatly changed in terms of what we see on our feeds. Popular platforms such as Facebook, Twitter (pre-Elon), and Instagram, amassed widespread appeal on the promise of connecting both friends and strangers. Today, however, that promise has taken a backseat where we see intrusive ads and unwanted recommendations before getting to our friend’s latest updates—that is, on top of the widely accepted reality that our data is quietly being sold for profit.

Friendster, a social media pioneer that predated the many platforms we use today, had hundreds of millions of users in its heyday before ultimately bowing out to the industry giant that is Facebook.

More than a decade after its shutdown, Friendster has just made a comeback, and it’s promising a return-to-roots approach to social connection.

A new coat of paint

The new-look Friendster promises “social networking, without the nonsense.” With an almost bare-bones looking app (that’s only currently available on IOS as of writing), it doesn’t feature any ads or algorithm-adjusted content—just what your friends post on their feeds.

Adding friends has also taken on a new form. Rather than searching for your friends’ usernames or pressing that “add” or “follow” button on a recommendation, you can only add users in person. By that, you can only add friends you’re personally with at

the moment, as if you were using Apple’s Airdrop function.

While the app is relatively new, it promises several additional features in its coming updates. Among these is a function where users can see their friends’ friends and request to message them. Another possible feature is dubbed “fading connections”: if two friends go a full year without tapping phones, the link between them softens.

According to Mike Carson, who bought Friendster and is the architect of its re-release, that will serve as a “gentle nudge that real friendships are kept alive in person, not online.” “All of this is built around the simple idea that real friendships happen when you actually meet in person,” he says.

“The idea that the only way to connect as friends on Friendster is by tapping phones was fun because it would promote people meeting in person. It would also verify that you are connecting to real people, and people that you actually want to connect with,” Carson shares, explaining the different approach to adding friends on the app. $30k and a dream According to Carson, in 2023, he discovered that the Friendster domain was active once again after it officially shut down in 2015. He then found the owner and discovered that the site was bought for $8k and was just being used to generate ad revenue. Carson later on finalized a deal, where he paid the current owner $20k in Bitcoin and a domain that was making around $9k/year in ad revenue.

But why? Carson notes that while today’s social networks

come with a lot of negativity, he recalls Friendster as a platform that brought positive and enjoyable experiences. “I wanted to create something positive— something that people would enjoy and find useful.”

He also explains that his personal experience with social media apps contributed to this decision. “My wife and I met on OkCupid. I wouldn’t have my kids without it. Websites like that genuinely change the course of people’s lives—people meet, fall in love, and build families. That’s incredible to me.”

As a zoomer

That sounds good and all, but how does this work in practice? Is there room for a Friendster revival for someone who doesn’t have the nostalgia?

26 Filipino seafarers deported...

The charm and allure of social media is the possibility for human connection despite the distance. It took the traditional concept of friendship and even relationships, turned it on its head, and proved that those made online can be just as real as those made in-person. And to a certain extent, the newlook Friendster alienates those who may not have the capacity to go out and make new friends. However, as someone who was late to social media and never experienced Friendster in its prime, its 2026 version does offer an escape from the noise that’s taken hold over social media. After all, the app is exactly what it says it is: It’s a way to keep tabs on what your friends are up to and a platform to keep in touch with them—all without the ads, the noise, and the doom-scrolling. It’s intentional social media if there were such a term for it. PAGE 1

Federal authorities alleged that 27 of the 28 individuals were linked to the “receipt, possession, transportation, distribution or viewing” of CSEM. CBP said the crew members’ visas were subsequently revoked and removal proceedings were initiated.

In an advisory released this week, the Philippine Consulate General expressed “grave concern” regarding the detentions while acknowledging the authority of U.S. federal agencies over admissibility decisions at ports of entry.

“While the Consulate provides welfare checks and coordinates with family, CBP admissibility decisions preclude external intervention,” the statement said.

The Consulate added that it had forwarded case information to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in Manila. The DMW, through the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Los Angeles, is coordinating reintegration support and legal assistance for the repatriated Filipino seafarers.

The operation has drawn scrutiny from migrant advocacy organizations, including Unión del Barrio and Tanggol Migrante Movement, which questioned the speed of the removals and the absence of formal court proceedings before deportation. Benjamin Prado of Unión del Barrio described the operation as a “mass roundup” and cited video footage showing several crew members being escorted from vessels in zip-tie restraints. Advocacy groups said the detentions raised concerns regarding access to legal counsel and due process protections. Disney Cruise Line confirmed in a statement that it maintains a “zero-tolerance policy” involving child exploitation offenses and said the employees involved “are no longer with the company.” As of publication, federal authorities had not publicly announced criminal charges in U.S. court against the deported crew members. Immigration enforcement actions, including visa revocations and removals, may proceed separately from criminal prosecution.

Health @Heart

PhiliP S. Chua MD, FaCS, FPCS

Fake GLP-1

Medical wisdom

GLP-1 Drugs are wonder drugs effective for the treatment of diabetes and obesity/ overweight. It is in demand. Since there is a shortage of GLP1 drugs, the FDA has warned the public against the use of compounded versions (not approved by the FDA) of drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic. These unapproved (fake) drugs have been linked to adverse events. Getting sick or dying from using these dangerous versions of GLP-1 to be healthier does not make sense. Stay away from fake drugs and stay with your physician’s prescription. Do not use GLP-1 or any medications, or discontinue them, without physician supervision.

Vital sunlight

The sun is life. Without the sun, we all perish. Exposure to the sun daily is vital for human health primarily because it triggers the skin to produce Vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption, bone health, and immune system function. It also boosts serotonin levels to enhance mood, regulates the circadian rhythm for better sleep, and can reduce mortality. It is prudent for all of us to enjoy some sunlight for at least 20 minutes each day, especially those with darker skin, more.

Standing on one foot Falls and fractures among the elderly in the United States victimize 28 percent of Americans aged 65 and older. This translates to about 14 million a year, 3 million emergency room visits, and 1 million hospitalizations. Most of them are from hip fractures. Almost all of these falls are due to impaired balance and stability in seniors. One of the best exercises to regain balance and stability is by standing on one foot, alternatingly. Here’s more:

“Standing on one foot, or unipedal standing, is a premier senior exercise for enhanc -

ing balance, strengthening leg muscles (quads, glutes, hamstrings), and reducing fall risk by up to a third. This exercise improves proprioception (body awareness), stabilizes the hips, and boosts coordination needed for walking and climbing stairs.

Brushing Teeth Balance: Stand on one leg while brushing teeth to build stability. Supported Single-Leg Stand: Hold onto a sturdy chair or countertop, shift weight to one side, and stand on one leg for 20 seconds, aiming for 10-15 repetitions per leg.

Support Reduction: Advance from holding a chair with two hands to using only one hand, then just fingertips, and finally no hands. Weighted Standing: Shift all weight onto the standing leg, bending it slightly while keeping the torso upright.” - MP Keto diet danger

Countless famous people have tried the Keto Diet to maintain good health. Many have stopped and modified their diet. The keto diet can cause nutrient deficiencies, kidney stones, constipation, and "keto flu" (headaches, fatigue) due to low fiber and high fat consumption. Future dangers could include increased cardiovascular risk from high saturated fat, potential liver/pancreas damage, impaired bone health, and possible hypoglycemia or dangerous ketoacidosis in diabetic individuals. - UCM

Eat real, natural food in proper amounts, especially plant-based protein and vegetables, cruciferous vegetables, and severely reduced carbohydrate (sweets) intake.

Rice: Glycemic Comparison

As Asians, we consume a lot of rice daily, from breakfast to dinner, and in between. Today, studies have shown how unhealthy eating a lot of rice is, especially for those with prediabetes and diabetes, or those who are overweight. Minimizing rice is beneficial to health. Glycemic Index is an indicator of how fast, after consumption, the blood sugar rises or spikes. It is a scale from 0 to 100. Here is a comparison of the Glycemic Index of various types of rice: Basmati 50-50 (Medium), Brown rice 50-55 (Low), Arborio 69 (Medium), White Standard 70+ (High), Jasmine 89 - 109 (High). Basmati rice is very popular. My favorite. TIP: Refrigerate left -

over rice within one hour after cooking…not more, because of bacterial (Bacillus cereus) germination and growth if left more than one hour unrefrigerated. This can cause diarrhea and vomiting. Basmati is better, especially for diabetics – fewer blood sugar spikes. Of course, control of the amount is important. Actually, while it is hard to do, especially for Asians, abstinence from rice would be ideal (great for weight control and diabetes prevention), minimal carbohydrate intake, a lot of plant-based protein, cruciferous veggies (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, bok choy, arugula, kale, Brussel sprouts), for heart health and cancer prevention, especially colorectal cancers.

Caution on distilled water

Distilled water is pure water, minus all total dissolved solids, chemicals, etc. This type of water is usually used for devices, like CPAP machines, and in laboratories. This is not intended for drinking because it lacks all the good minerals in it. Unfortunately, around the world, the Philippines included, distilled water is sold to the unsuspecting, ignorant public as drinking water. Some brands include Absolute, Wilkins, and Nature’s Spring. Drinking distilled water daily can lead to electrolyte imbalance and mineral deficiencies (calcium, magnesium, potassium, etc.), muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, and altered metabolism. In the Philippines, boiling faucet (city) water kills bacteria and removes chemical sediments, making it safe for drinking, better and healthier than drinking distilled water. Also, distilled water is bottled, and plastic bottle leaches microplastic into the water. So, by not drinking distilled water, you also reduce the intake of microplastics into your brain and other vital organs.

Moisturizer essential Skin moisturizer is not only for women. Men’s skin also deserves to be properly moisturized, especially in dry or desert areas. This helps keep our skin healthy and protects our body. Daily facial moisturizer and skin moisturizer for the body is a healthy practice, especially after a shower. News: Men can

The dark season didn’t break me

I used to think delays meant I had missed my chance. That I was behind. That other people were being chosen while I was being overlooked. This past season changed that thinking. A line I read recently stayed with me: God doesn’t reward impatience. He rewards faith that refuses to die in the dark. It reframed how I look at slow seasons. We often assume that if life is not moving, something is wrong. Sometimes nothing is wrong. Sometimes life is being redirected. For me, that redirection came through a foot injury. Six weeks of recovery forced a complete stop. No dance training. No movement the way I am used to. For someone who finds joy, expression, and community through dance, it was not a welcome pause. There were difficult moments. I watched friends continue on the

dance floor while I stayed home, my foot elevated, waiting. But while I was sidelined in one area, I was needed in others. I had time to care more closely for my aging mother. I focused on a rental property remodel that required attention. I redirected energy into my skincare business. None of these carried the same excitement as dance, but all of them carried weight. That is when a shift became clear: not every closed door is rejection. Sometimes it is protection. Sometimes it is prioritization. We ask for blessing, but do not always recognize it when it arrives as interruption. I wanted sequins and cha-cha. Instead, I was given ice packs, patience, and paperwork. Yet there was growth in all of it. Faith strengthened. Gratitude deepened. Patience, still in progress, improved. This pattern extends beyond personal setbacks. It applies to finances as well. Many pray for increase, but timing determines whether that increase becomes stability or disorder. Resources without discipline can create pressure rather than relief. If progress feels delayed, it may not be denial. It may be preparation. The more difficult questions

are often the more revealing ones. Can you remain steady when resources are limited? Can you stay measured when treated unfairly? Can you continue to give without immediate return? These are not theoretical questions. They define readiness. Growth is rarely immediate, and it is never accidental. It is developed quietly, often outside of recognition, long before results become visible. So when life slows down, it is worth reconsidering the assumption that something has gone wrong. It may be that something is being built instead. Hold on to this: The dark season didn’t break me. It built me. You are not behind. You may simply be in preparation for what comes next.

* * * 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.

* * * Kathy Current is a financial coach, mortgage advisor, and author of Heal Your Money Wounds God’s Way, where she combines over three decades of financial experience with timeless biblical wisdom. Kathy addresses real-life questions about God and money, helping readers find freedom and purpose in their financial lives.

Who Gets to Claim the Dependency Tax Exemption

in Their Tax Return When Parents Gets Divorced?

Barrister’s Corner

AS the year end comes near, divorcing parties begin to plan for how they will file their taxes for this year. Consider the common divorce scenario where the divorce judgment provides primary physical custody of the children to one spouse while the other spouse only gets visitation. The parties begin to file separate tax returns. Which parent gets to claim the dependency tax exemption of the children in his or her return?

In this scenario, the non-custodial parents can no longer file as head of household, even if the noncustodial parent is allowed to claim the children as dependents under the divorce judgment because this requires that the parent have custody of the children at least 6 months of the year. Noncustodial parents also can no longer claim the earned income tax credit. However, the noncustodial parent can claim the child tax credit.

In the absence of a provision in the divorce judgment which states otherwise, the parent with primary custody of the children is ordinarily entitled to claim the children as dependents for tax purposes. If a qualifying child is claimed as a dependent by both parents and the parents do not file a joint return, the child is normally treated as the qualifying child of the custodial parent IRC § 152(c)(4)(B)(i)

However, the Code allows the dependency exemption and child tax credit to be shifted to the noncustodial parent when a child receives over one-half of the child's support during the calendar year from the child's parents who are either (i) divorced, (ii) legally separated,

Pastor’s Notes

reverenD roDel G. BalaGtaS

(iii) separated under a written separation agreement, or (iv) living apart at all times during the last six months of the calendar year. The child must be in the custody of one or both of the child's parents for more than one-half of the calendar year. IRC § 152(e) (1)(A) & (B)

To shift the exemption and child tax credit to the noncustodial parent, the custodial parent must release or waive his or her claim to the exemption for the year by executing IRS Form 8332. IRC § 152(e) (2). The custodial parent can waive this right to claim the children as dependents and let the noncustodial parent claim them by executing IRS Form 8332 and filing it with his or her return.

Certain Tax Court cases held that the waiver is effective even if the Form 8332 was not filled out in detail. In Bramante (T.C. Memo 2003-228), the custodial parent agreed to waive her right to exemptions on Form 8332. The custodial parent realized that as her income increased, the value of the exemptions increased. The custodial parent discovered that her Social Security number was missing on the form and that the noncustodial parent, had dated the form in his handwriting. The tax court still upheld the waiver as effective despite the missing details from Form 8332. In Boltinghouse, the IRS argued that missing details in the separation agreement defeated the waiver (T.C. Memo 2003134). In this case, the parties executed a separation agreement allowing the noncustodial parent to claim one of his children, but the noncustodial parent did not file a Form 8332. As a result, the court had to decide whether the agreement conformed in substance to Form 8332. The IRS contended that the agreement was not in substance a Form 8332 because it did not reflect the years the exemptions were to be waived and it did not pro-

vide Social Security numbers for the parents. Although the IRS pointed to some cases in which the Tax Court had rejected waivers that were ambiguous as to the applicable years, the Tax Court said that it was clear that this agreement applied to the years the parents began filing separate returns. As in Bramante, lack of Social Security numbers was not considered a serious defect by the Tax Court. The custodial parent can waive the dependent exemption each year or for a number of years. The noncustodial parent should file form 8332 with his or her tax return in order to be entitled to the exemption. To avoid any confusion and tax issues with the IRS, the parties should attempt to agree or resolve in court the issue of

will claim the dependency exemption of the children as part of the divorce judgment. Parties should seek the assistance of an experienced attorney to weed through complex

law issues.

Jesus’ Profound Love

WHOEVER wrote the Gospel of John must have had a profound relationship with Jesus. He would have witnessed and experienced Jesus’ personal love and heard many times His expressions of love for the Father. This Sunday’s Gospel serves as a testament to Jesus’ expression and revelation of His love for God the Father and His disciples. Speaking as if it were a farewell address to His disciples, He assured them that He would be with them by asking the Father to send them an Advocate—the Holy Spirit—to guide them. He told them, “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always, the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot accept because it neither sees nor knows him. But you

know him because he remains with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you. In a little while, the world will no longer see me, but you will see me because I live, and you will live. On that day, you will realize that I am in my Father and you are in me and I in you.”

How encouraging it is to hear these words of Jesus to all of us who are following the path of discipleship! We never feel alone or abandoned because we know that Jesus is with us, empowering us through the Holy Spirit. He emboldens us to keep believing in Him, proclaiming His message, and living His words. No matter how indifferent people may be to our calls for them to live their faith fully, we must not despair because, after all, God is in charge of His Church. He will find ways to lead people back to Him. We have seen this happen throughout the history of the Church and our faith.

So, should we worry about people’s apathy toward our faith? Should we despair in hopelessness at the state of the world? Of course, we often ex-

perience these feelings of angst, but we must trust God even more in His works of redeeming the world. In the Gospel, Jesus assures us: “And whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and reveal myself to him.”

Pope Leo XIV mentions God’s profound love for us during his Easter Vigil homily this year. “God's love is stronger than any evil, capable of "driving out hatred" and "bringing down the mighty," he said. "Man can kill the body, but the life of the God of love is eternal life, which transcends death and which no tomb can imprison,” he added. Let us not cease proclaiming Jesus’ Gospel of love and mercy. Let us embody a spirit of hope rooted in the resurrection of Jesus. Let us continue to pray for our world leaders, that they may work to end wars, conflicts, corruption, injustice, and poverty.

* * * 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.

* * * Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California

Rex Smith headlines May 9 concert at Noypitz Bar and Grill

by AJPress

The late-1970s pop idol behind “You Take My Breath Away” and the enduring favorite “Simply Jessie” leads a multi-artist concert, pairing his signature ballads with a lineup of Filipino and Filipino-American performers in Rancho Cucamonga.

RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. — American singer and stage performer Rex Smith is set to headline a live concert at Noypitz Bar and Grill on May 9, 2026, joining a roster of Filipino and Filipino-American artists in a program that blends classic pop with community-based performances.

A defining voice of late-1970s pop Smith rose to prominence in the late 1970s, emerging as both a recording artist and television personality during the height of the soft rock era. His breakout single, “You Take My Breath Away,” reached the Billboard Top 10 in 1979 and remains his most recognized hit. His repertoire also includes “Simply Jessie,” which developed a lasting following among Filipino listeners, along with tracks such as “Forever” and “Let’s Make a Memory.” Beyond recording, Smith built a parallel career in stage and television, with credits that include Broadway productions such as Grease and roles in television series including Street Hawk.

Filipino performers anchor the lineup

The concert follows a multi-artist showcase format, a familiar structure in Filipino community entertainment events.

Featured guest performer Ding Santos, billed as an “Ultimate Balladeer,” joins the program alongside Imelda Bosing; Wilitez Poirier; Michael Jurolan; Angel Klein; and Annabelle Mendoza.

Production and community backing

The event is presented by Rubilou Productions LLC, with Noypitz Bar and Grill serving as host venue in Rancho Cucamonga. Promotional materials indicate a collaborative production model

supported by local businesses and community partners.

Sponsors include LA VIP; Quality Home Health; Almuchow ATBP; and Best Day Ever Events by Theresa, among others, reflecting the event’s community-driven foundation. Media support is provided by Asian Journal, aligning the concert with Filipino-American audiences across the region.

A cross-generational concert experience

Multi-artist showcases such as this remain a fixture in Southern California’s Filipino entertainment circuit, offering a platform that bridges legacy international acts with local performers. Smith’s continued resonance, particularly through songs that have maintained cultural familiarity for decades, underscores the enduring appeal of nostalgia-driven concerts.

The event will take place at Noypitz Bar and Grill, 12809 Foothill Blvd., Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739. Doors open at 5 p.m., with guest performers scheduled from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., followed by Smith’s main set from 8 p.m. to 9:15 p.m.Ticket prices are listed at $68 and $98.

Medical wisdom...

also use facial moisturizers used by women. For financial gains, cosmetic companies created “dedicated moisturizers, special formulas” for women. They are much more expensive than moisturizers for men. Now, so-called facial moisturizers for men are marketed with exaggerated claims to remove eye bags, wrinkles, etc. But using it daily for 3 months, those facial “problems” remain. Obviously false claims. Using the common old-fashioned moisturizers, modestly priced, is good for the face, neck, arms, body, and legs. The skin is the body’s largest

organ. Skin health is vital for our overall well-being. Let’s keep it well-hydrated and healthy.

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

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

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

by AJPress

LOS ANGELES — In obser-

vance of Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the Asian American Advertising Federation announced on May 1 its 3AF 2026 Impact 50, recognizing 50 national brands making sustained and measurable investments in the Asian American consumer segment.

The annual list highlights companies demonstrating authentic engagement through marketing and advertising, experiential programs, strategic innovation, and long-term commitment. The 2026 honorees, selected based on their 2025 activities, include companies from the Fortune 500 and Fortune Global 500.

The federation is set to formally unveil the list during its Asian Marketing Summit on May 13.

Industry leadership and market relevance

3AF President Cheryl Lee said the honorees reflect a broader shift toward multicultural market integration.

“As brands navigate an increasingly multicultural market-

place, the 3AF 2026 Impact 50 stands out as leaders in building authentic, lasting relationships with the Asian American community,” Lee said. “Their work demonstrates that meaningful investment is not only impactful, it is essential to the future of business.”

Selection framework

The 3AF said brands were evaluated based on several criteria, including demonstrated marketing activity targeting Asian American audiences, cultural intelligence and authenticity, strategic execution and visibility, and evidence of commitment beyond one-off campaigns.

The list was compiled by industry experts, many with more than three decades of experience in Asian American advertising and marketing. Additional nominations from veteran practitioners outside the organization were incorporated to ensure broad coverage of 2025 industry activity.

3AF 2026 Impact 50 (alphabetical order)

Acura; Alaska Airlines; Bounty; Brown-Forman; Cadillac; Chase; Citibank; Coca-Cola; Disney; East West Bank; Genesis Motor America; Gilead; Head & Shoulders;

Honda; Hulu; Humana; Hyundai; Instagram; Johnnie Walker; Kia America Inc.; Kraft Heinz; Lexus; Lionsgate; LVMH; Martell; MassMutual; Maybelline; McDonald’s; MGM Resorts; Murad; National Football League; Nationwide Mutual Insurance; Netflix; New York Life; Nissan; Northwestern Mutual; Olay; Old Spice; Paramount; Prime Video; Princess Cruises; Secret; Suntory; Tide; TikTok; Toyota; UnitedHealthcare; Walmart; Warner Bros.; YouTube.

The complete list is available at the organization’s official website https://www.3af.org/3af-2026–impact-advertisers/ Registration details for the May summit are available at: https://www.3af.org/2026-maysummit/. ***

About 3AF

The Asian American Advertising Federation is a national trade organization composed of Asian American advertising agencies, marketers, media companies, and industry specialists. It aims to advance Asian American marketing and advertising through education, advocacy, promotion, and cross-industry collaboration.

California escalates action against State Farm over alleged mishandling of L.A. wildfire claims

Newsom warns insurers to process disaster claims fairly as regulators pursue penalties against California’s largest home insurer

SACRAMENTO — California regulators have opened a major enforcement action against State Farm General Insurance Company, alleging widespread mishandling of insurance claims filed after the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, while Gov. Gavin Newsom warned insurers that the state expects disaster claims to be handled “quickly and fairly.”

The California Department of Insurance said its market conduct examination reviewed 220 sampled State Farm claims and

JP Lopez and the discipline of creative trust

If Maria Cristina Lopez were still alive today, she would likely take immense pride in the accomplishments of her son, JP Lopez, now recognized as a writer and director with work associated with networks such as GMA Network and various independent production companies in the Philippines.

What impressed me most during the PhilStagers Theatre and Film Workshop Batch 2026 was not merely JP’s professional credentials, but the seriousness, discipline, and generosity he brought to teaching.

From the opening day of the workshop, participants were immersed in exercises designed to build trust, spontaneity, and awareness. Activities ranged from memorizing names and personal details of fellow participants to creating group logos under time pressure. I belonged to the “Jolly Peers” group. We also engaged in collaborative exercises that challenged our concentration and collective focus, including one in which participants lifted a groupmate using only two fingers.

Beyond the fun and energy of the activities, the exercises revealed a deeper principle central to acting: the necessity of freeing oneself from inhibition. Natural performance requires emotional honesty and the ability to respond without fear of judgment. An actor must move beyond “performing” and instead inhabit the emotional reality of the character.

Equally memorable were the architectural and monumental exercises conducted with the assistance of PhilStagers actor Joseph Tañada. Blindfolded participants relied solely on listening, trust, and coordination, underscoring the importance of concentration and teamwork.

During that first day of the month-long summer workshop, held on May 4, I was reminded of the enduring value of trust, time, discipline, and collaboration.

The workshop orientation had earlier been conducted on May 2 by the Philippine Stagers Foundation (PSF), known widely as

PhilStagers, a theater organization that has established a strong presence in Philippine performing arts.

The orientation for Theater and Film Workshop Batch 2026 was organized by PSF President Johnrey Rivas, a FAMAS Best Supporting Actor awardee for the internationally recognized film Katips. The event was hosted by JP Lopez and OJ Arci. Designed for participants ages 16 and above, the workshop will culminate in a series of acting recitals.

Sessions are held every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at the PSF Blackbox Theater (Philippine Stagers Studio), located at 2065-B G. Tuazon Street corner Calabash A, Balic-Balic, Sampaloc, Manila.

Remembering Oscar P. Garcia Real estate broker and developer Oscar P. Garcia, a graduate of Arellano High School and the University of Santo Tomas, was also a former columnist for the Manila Bulletin and an active member of the Philippine Association of Real Estate Boards (PAREB). He was a cousin of former Bulacan Governor Atty. Obet Pagdanganan.

I still recall my appearance years ago on Jeanne Young’s “Spin-A-Win” on RPN Channel 9, where I won a bedroom showcase. At the time, I chose not to inform my uncle Felipe “Jun” Medina Jr., then general manager of IBC 13 and a broadcaster for RPN Channel 9.

Instead, I contacted my uncle Oscar, who arrived in his newly acquired Mercedes-Benz vehicle and personally helped transport the prizes from Broadcast City. The gesture left an impression not only on me, but also on secu-

rity personnel and the late actor Rod Navarro Sr., who assisted during that occasion.

“Tito Oca,” as I fondly called him, consistently encouraged my pursuit of journalism and writing. I knew he shared in my happiness when I later received recognitions such as the 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award in Manila and the Amerika Prestige Award in North Hollywood, California, accompanied by my aunts Anita Garcia and retired educator Pilar B. de Mesa.

Lani Montreal to be featured in Chicago events Artist-educator Lani Montreal is set to participate in several cultural events in Chicago this May.

These include cold readings of scenes from Rho Variant: A Zombie Apocalyps(o) with Naked Angels at Chicago Dramatists, 798 N. Aberdeen, on May 5 and 12; an ekphrastic poetry presentation during Art Speaks at Stan Mansion, 2408 N. Kedzie, on May 8; and the relaunch of Riksha Magazine at the Rizal Center, 1332 W. Irving Park, on May 16.

“Talakayan sa Konsulado” forum in San Francisco

The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco will host “Talakayan sa Konsulado,” a public forum focused on recent developments in U.S. immigration policy, on May 15, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center in San Francisco.

Organized in partnership with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines California Chapter, the forum will feature immigration professionals who are expected to discuss current immigration concerns, legal rights, common pitfalls, and available pathways to permanent residency.

Participants may attend in person or virtually via Zoom.

Registration is available at: bit. ly/talakayansf2026

“Sa Piling ni Nanay” art exhibit

In Filipino culture, the figure of the mother — Nanay, Ina, Inay — remains deeply intertwined with memory, sacrifice, and family life.

The exhibit

“Sa Piling ni Nanay” gathers works from the collection of Museo Orlina that reflect on the emotional and cultural dimensions of motherhood through varied artistic forms and mediums.

The featured works explore maternal presence through gestures of tenderness, sacrifice, labor, and devotion, while also examining motherhood as both a personal and collective experience within Filipino society.

The exhibit runs from May 1 to July 31, 2026.

Mother’s Day gathering A group of women in Northern California recently gathered in advance observance of Mother’s Day.

Mother’s Day this year falls on Sunday, May 10, and continues to be widely celebrated in countries including the United States, Canada, and the Philippines. Traditions commonly include family gatherings, gift-giving, flowers, and shared meals honoring mothers and maternal figures.

identified 398 alleged violations of California insurance law in 114 cases. Regulators said the alleged issues included delayed investigations, underpayment of claims, repeated reassignment of adjusters, poor communication with policyholders and disputes involving smoke damage coverage.

State officials said State Farm policyholders filed approximately 11,300 residential claims tied to the Los Angeles wildfires, accounting for nearly one-third of all wildfire-related residential claims statewide. The department said the sampled findings may indicate broader patterns affecting additional policyholders, though the allegations remain subject to administrative review.

Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara said the investigation found that some policyholders were “delayed, underpaid, and buried in red tape” during a critical recovery period. The department said it is seeking corrective action and financial penalties.

Newsom’s office said the case represents California’s largest insurance enforcement action tied to a disaster this century

and warned insurers against unlawfully delaying claims for wildfire survivors attempting to rebuild homes and businesses. Administrative process

The filing does not represent a final finding of wrongdoing. State Farm may challenge the allegations through administrative proceedings before an administrative law judge. Under California law, penalties may reach up to $5,000 per violation, or up to $10,000 for willful violations if sustained after adjudication.

State Farm denied the allegations and disputed claims of systemic misconduct. The company said it handled more than 13,700 wildfire-related claims and paid over $5.7 billion to affected policyholders. State Farm characterized the issues identified by regulators as largely administrative or filespecific and said it has implemented corrective measures and additional claim reviews.

The enforcement action comes as California’s insurance market continues to face pressure from escalating wildfire risk, rising rebuilding costs and insurer pullbacks in high-risk areas.

LOS ANGELES

LIFESTYLE

Filipino-American queens to carry Philippine sash in 2026 pageant season

by AJPress

LOS ANGELES — Three Fil-

ipino-American beauty queens are set to represent the Philippines in international pageants in 2026, reflecting the growing visibility of the Filipino diaspora in Philippine pageantry.

Bea Millan-Windorski, Asia

Rose Simpson and Katrina Anne Johnson will each compete under the Philippine sash, bringing personal backgrounds shaped by Filipino heritage, life abroad and advocacy work.

Millan-Windorski, who represented La Union, was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2026 and is expected to compete at Miss Universe 2026 in Puerto Rico in November. The Miss Universe Organization has announced Puerto Rico as host of the pageant’s 75th edition.

Before winning the national title, Millan-Windorski had represented the United States in Miss Earth 2024, where she placed as Miss Earth Water. Her public advocacy has included migrant worker protection, environmental causes and support for refugee communities.

Simpson, Miss World Philippines 2026, is expected to represent the country at Miss World 2026, with pageant cov-

erage identifying Vietnam as host of the Sept. 5 final. Representing Quezon City, she won the national title at 18 and has promoted youth mental wellness through her SED Initiative, which uses sports, exercise and dance as tools for confidence and self-expression.

Johnson, who was crowned Binibining Pilipinas International 2025, will represent the Philippines at Miss International 2026. She previously placed first runner-up at Binibining Pilipinas 2023 before returning to win the international title.

Pageant coverage lists the 64th Miss International pageant for Nov. 25, 2026, at Tokyo Dome City Hall in Japan.

Their participation places Filipino-American titleholders across three of the country’s closely followed international pageant campaigns. It also points to a broader shift in Philippine pageantry, where contestants from diaspora communities increasingly bring cross-cultural experience, international exposure and advocacy-centered platforms.

For Filipino communities in the United States, the 2026 pageant season offers another measure of visibility: women with roots on both sides of the Pacific representing a country whose pageant tradition remains among the most closely watched in the world.

Vic Sotto says Vico’s political future is his decision

by AJPress

television

and actor Vic Sotto said any decision

Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto to seek higher national office should be left to his son, amid continued public speculation surrounding the younger Sotto’s political future.

Vico Sotto is the son of Vic Sotto, one of the Philippines’ most recognizable television and film personalities, and actress and television host Coney Reyes, a longtime figure in Philippine entertainment known for her work in television drama, film, and family-oriented programming.

In several reports published this week, Vic acknowledged growing calls for Vico to eventually run for president or pursue another national position. He did not endorse a future candidacy, saying public service is a personal calling and that the decision ultimately belongs to Vico himself.

Vic also noted the constitutional age requirement for the presidency. Under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, presidential candidates must be at least 40 years old on election day. Vico Sotto, born on June 17, 1989, would be 38 during the 2028 presidential elections and therefore would not qualify under the current requirement.

“The age is not right yet,” Vic Sotto said in one of the interviews.

The remarks come as Vico Sotto’s national profile continues to expand beyond Pasig City, where he recently won a third and final consecutive term as mayor. Since first winning office in 2019, he has become one of the country’s most closely watched local government officials because of reforms focused on transparency, procurement oversight, digitization, and anti-corruption initiatives.

His 2019 victory ended nearly three decades of political control

in Pasig by the Eusebio family and drew national attention to his reform-oriented platform.

Vico’s administration later gained broader recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic for its governance and public information systems. In 2021, the U.S. Department of State named him among recipients of its International Anticorruption Champions Award.

Despite recurring speculation about higher office, Vico Sotto has previously stated that he intends to focus on his work in Pasig and has not announced plans to seek a national post.

Ruffa Gutierrez celebrates daughter Lorin’s graduation from Pepperdine University

by AJPress

tas, graduated from Pepperdine University in California.

Lorin completed a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising from Seaver College, Pepperdine’s undergraduate liberal arts division located on the university’s Malibu campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Public posts shared by Gutierrez and Lorin documented the commencement ceremonies and family celebration held during Pepperdine’s Class of 2026 graduation weekend. In messages posted online, Gutierrez expressed pride in her daughter’s achievement and reflected on watching her grow into adulthood while pursuing her education in the United States. Pepperdine University’s advertising program includes

coursework in media strategy, branding, consumer research, campaign planning and communications studies, according to information published by the university.

Family members, including Lorin’s younger sister Venice, were also seen in photographs and videos from the California ceremonies. Several personalities from Philippine entertain-

Lovi Poe joins Maisie Williams, Rory Kinnear in UK thriller ‘Ignition’

LOS ANGELES — Filipino

actress Lovi Poe has joined the cast of Ignition , an upcoming British thriller starring Maisie Williams and Rory Kinnear, according to official production materials released by international sales company WestEnd Films.

The English-language film is directed by Emmy-nominated British filmmaker James Erskine and is currently in post-production. Industry reports state that the project is being introduced to international buyers during Cannes market activities this month.

WestEnd Films’ synopsis describes Ignition as a real-time thriller centered on Sylvie Johnson, portrayed by Williams, who receives an anonymous call claiming a bomb has been planted inside her vehicle while driving toward London. The story reportedly follows her efforts to navigate escalating threats connected to a broader attack plot involving Royal Albert Hall.

Williams gained international recognition for portraying Arya Stark in HBO’s Game of Thrones , while Kinnear is known for his film, television and stage work in the United Kingdom, including appearances in the James Bond fran -

chise. Production details released by WestEnd Films list Poe among the film’s cast, although her character and the scope of her role have not yet been publicly disclosed.

Poe acknowledged the project through social media posts this week, describing the announcement as one she had been waiting to share publicly.

The film marks another international credit for the Filipina actress, who has increasingly appeared in overseas productions in recent years. She previously appeared in the independent Hollywood film Bad Man alongside American actor Seann William Scott.

No theatrical release date has yet been announced for Ignition

ment later posted congratulatory messages online following the graduation.

Lorin is the eldest daughter of Gutierrez and Turkish businessman Yilmaz Bektas. Over the years, both sisters have occasionally appeared in public events and social media content alongside their mother, one of the Philippines’ longstanding entertainment figures.

Gutierrez, a former beauty titleholder who later built a career in television, film and hosting, is also part of the prominent Gutierrez family in Philippine show business, headed by veteran actor Eddie Gutierrez and talent manager Annabelle Rama. Pepperdine University, founded in 1937, is a private Christian university in Malibu known for programs in business, communications, law and liberal arts. Its coastal campus has long attracted domestic and international students pursuing careers in media, entertainment and related industries.

Eraserheads documentary to stream globally on Netflix May 30

by AJPress

MANILA — The documentary film Eraserheads: Combo On The Run will begin streaming worldwide on Netflix on May 30, extending the reach of a project that revisits the history and cultural impact of one of the Philippines’ most influential rock bands.

Directed and produced by Maria Diane Ventura, the film follows Eraserheads members Ely Buendia, Raimund Marasigan, Buddy Zabala and Marcus Adoro as it traces the group’s rise from the Manila alternative music scene to mainstream success during the 1990s. The documentary also revisits the band’s widely watched 2022 reunion concert, which renewed public attention on the group decades after its commercial peak. Release materials and entertainment reports said the Netflix edition will contain a revised cut that includes additional footage and expanded scenes not included in the original theatrical version. The documentary first screened in Philippine cinemas in 2025 before moving to selected international screenings.

Organizers and entertainment reports previously described its San Diego Comic-Con screening as a milestone appearance for a Filipino-produced music documentary at the convention.

The film later received the Best International Feature Documentary award at the 12th Ierapetra International Documentary and Film Festival in Greece, according to festival and entertainment reports.

Formed in 1989, Eraserheads became one of the defining acts of Philippine alternative rock, producing songs that remain widely recognized across generations of Filipino listeners.

Among the band’s best-known tracks are “Ang Huling El Bimbo,” “Pare Ko,” “Ligaya,” and “With A Smile.”

The documentary’s title references “Combo on the Run,” a song from the band’s 1993 debut album Ultraelectromagneticpop!, a record often associated with the rise of modern Filipino alternative music.

Netflix’s acquisition of the film reflects the growing international visibility of Filipino music documentaries and concert-related productions as streaming platforms continue expanding regional content offerings for global audiences.

Kris Aquino reveals bout with COVID-19 anew

by Anne PAsAjol Inquirer.net

KRIS Aquino suffered from fever and cough as she tested positive again for Covid-19, just after a recent hospitalization.

The Queen of All Media spoke about her bout with the disease—on top of her several autoimmune illnesses—through her Instagram page on Wednesday, May 6, saying it started over a week ago.

In her post, she showed a photo of an antigen kit which showed two lines on the Covid-19 test, indicating a positive diagnosis.

“I’ve been sick from the time I got out of the hospital, early Sunday. Kuya Josh on Monday started to cough and squeeze last night,” she recalled, referring to her eldest son. “I didn’t want him to feel unwelcome and he was wearing his mask so I slept with him.”

Aquino said she felt weak the next day after she took her Methotrexate injectable chemotherapy, then suffered from fever the following days.

“I checked on my friend [JC Buendia] and he had mentioned having been tested for [Covid-19] during his recent hospitalization,” she continued, referring to the Filipino fashion designer. This apparently prompted her to take a test as well.

“I said sleeping is a lost luxury because of my neverending fits of evening coughing,” she added. In the succeeding photo, Kris showed herself getting injected with medication while lying in her bed. Despite the celebrity mom visibly struggling, she underscored her fighting spirit as she used Justin Bieber’s “Never Say Never” as the background song of her post. Just last March, Kris went out to meet with friends including her actor godson Dingdong Dantes. She later hinted that the two of them were gearing up for a project.

Johnny

by AJPress

Manahan begins new chapter

with TV5’s Star Worx

VETERAN television director and talent manager Johnny Manahan said his departure from GMA Network followed the completion of his contract and eventually led him to a new role with TV5’s talent management arm, Star Worx. Manahan, widely known in Philippine entertainment as “Mr. M,” made the remarks during the formal launch of Star Worx, the rebranded talent agency formerly known as MediaQuest Artists Agency.

He joined GMA Artist Center in 2021 as a consultant during a period of major transition in Philippine broadcasting. The division was later renamed Sparkle GMA Artist Center. In reports published this week, Manahan said there was no conflict surrounding his exit and described his stay at the network as a positive experience.

Star Worx is being positioned as TV5’s artist development and talent management platform, with executives saying the agency aims to strength-

en training, mentorship and cross-platform opportunities for performers.

During the launch, the company also introduced Star Worx Block 1, a 16-member talent group that underwent months of training in acting, singing and performance.

by AJPress

MANILA — Sharon Cuneta appeared to publicly show support for daughter Frankie “Kakie” Pangilinan’s rumored relationship with Daniel “Dan” Laurel after joining a lighthearted online exchange that drew attention across entertainment and social media platforms.

On May 5, Frankie posted a birthday greeting on Instagram featuring photographs of herself and Laurel during beach trips, market visits and other personal outings. She captioned the post: “Happy birthday to the rumored boyfriend of Frankie Pangilinan.”

Cuneta later commented on the post, writing: “Happy birthday to the alleged of my [second] baby! Love you!” Laurel replied, “Thank you so much tita! Allegedly love you too,” continuing the playful tone of the exchange. Frankie’s sister, Miel Pangilinan, also joined the comments section, referring to Laurel as “kuya, allegedly.”

The interaction fueled further online discussion surrounding the pair, whose relationship has been the subject of speculation in recent weeks.

Entertainment reports have identified Laurel as the son of former model and 1980s social figure Crispy Santamaria Laurel and businessman Arsenic Laurel. Santamaria Laurel was known during the 1980s as one of Manila’s prominent “it girls” and gained recognition as a former Camay Girl.

Arsenic Laurel belongs to the prominent Laurel family of Batangas and has been publicly associated with business and golf organizations in the Philippines. He is a grandson of former Philippine President Jose P. Laurel and son of the late race car driver Arsenio “Dodjie” Laurel, a two-time Macau Grand Prix champion during the 1960s.

by HAnnAH MAllorcA Inquirer.net

FOR Jessica Sanchez, being a first-time mom allowed her to tap into her vulnerable side and feel confident in her own singing abilities. Her daughter Eliana came into the world at the right time, reminding her how emotions work wonders in her artistry.

“I think I’ve always been more of an emotional singer, and I’ve been trying to dive deeper into that for a while,” Sanchez admitted during an intimate Zoom media gathering when asked how motherhood changed how she views herself as an artist and her craft.

The singer-songwriter, who is set to hold a concert at the Araneta Coliseum on May 16, admitted that she was “confused” about who she wanted to be when she was younger. After all, her powerhouse vocals allowed her to explore different genres with ease, as proven during her “America’s Got Talent” and “American Idol” days.

“I was confused when I was young. Should I release pop music or should I release this kind of stuff? Now, becoming a mom, I’m just embracing my emotional side,” she said. “I want to give my supporters what they’ve been asking for, which is the vocals and just the deeper lyrics. I’m excited to release more music and those kinds of songs.”

Sanchez was pregnant when she was declared the winner of “America’s Got Talent” season 20 in September of last year. She gave birth a month later, and while going through the motions of things has been a challenge, she is happily embarking on the ride of a lifetime.

“It’s the biggest challenge I’ve ever gone through. It taught me how to be a stronger woman. And I just love it. I love my baby girl, and I love being a mom,” she said. At one point, Eliana and her husband, Ricky Gallar-

Manahan remains one of the Philippines’ most influential talent developers, having spent decades helping shape the careers of actors, television personalities and recording artists. Before joining GMA, he was closely associated with ABSCBN’s Star Magic, where he became known for mentoring generations of entertainers.

Industry observers view the launch of Star Worx as part of the continuing evolution of Philippine entertainment, where talent management increasingly extends across television, digital and live-event platforms.

Neither Frankie nor Laurel has formally confirmed the status of their relationship. However, entertainment observers noted that Frankie appeared to publicly acknowledge the pairing through several social media posts beginning in April, a move commonly referred to online as a “hard launch.” Frankie, known professionally as Kakie, is the daughter of Cuneta and Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan. She has built a public profile through music releases, commentary and digital content centered on social and cultural issues. Cuneta, widely known as the “Megastar,” remains one of the Philippines’ most recognizable entertainment personalities, with a career spanning film, television and music over several decades.

How Jessica Sanchez’s emotions as a mom work wonders in her artistry

do, joined in the call, with her baby girl adorably smiling at the camera.

“I think it’s been harder to figure out my voice than it was when I was pregnant because of all the hormones that have been happening in my body. But I am working with an amazing vocal coach out here who knows the scientific process of the vocal cords,” she shared.

“He’s been teaching me a lot and helping me kind of regain that strength and how to sing in a healthier way. So, I am giving you guys the best of the best for May,” she added.

Eliana’s potential in music Looking back at her pregnancy, Sanchez recalled the time when Eliana would “really kick inside [her] belly” when she performed “Golden Hour.” Perhaps it is one of the songs that her daughter connected with the most.

“When I was on ‘AGT,’ and I sang ‘Golden Hour,’ that’s the song that she would really kick inside my belly every time I sing it,” she said. “Now that she’s here, when we play it on YouTube, she calms down. Every time she’s screaming, when we play it, she stops crying.”

Aside from “Golden Hour,” Sanchez shared that Eliana is a fan of Olivia Dean’s “So Easy (To Fall in Love)” as well.

“Actually, she really enjoys my singing, which is really sweet. But also, there’s a song that I sing to her, the Olivia Dean song,” she said before singing a snippet of “So Easy (To Fall in Love)” during the chat. “That one. She loves that.”

“Every time I sing that to her, she stops and stares. She giggles, and she loves that. Now, she’s screaming, so I think she’s trying to sing,” she continued.

When asked if she sees Eliana as a singer in the future, Sanchez said the decision is up to her.

“I feel like she’s the natural one to sing because I’m always singing to her, and I’m always playing music. Whether she wants to be a singer professionally, that’s up to her. But I think she’s gonna love music,” she said.

Asian Hall of Fame 2026: Philanthropist Loida Nicolas Lewis to Filipinos‘Find

LOIDA Nicolas Lewis, philanthropist-lawyer-author, who was the distinguished guest speaker at the 22nd edition of the Asian Hall of Fame Heritage Gala held recently at The Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles, challenged all Filipinos here and abroad to “find your path and follow it. Each one of us has our own path. With God’s help, everything is possible.”

In our exclusive interview, the Asian Hall of Fame inductee of 2007 revealed, “Each one of us has their own path. I am a girl from the province of Sorsogon. To come to the United States, fall in love, and marry the right guy, and then, when he died, take over a one-billion-dollar company, that's very unique. I call on all Filipinos in the United States and abroad, each one of us has our own path. And so, it's up to you to find your path and follow it. With God's help, everything is possible.”

During her Fireside Chat with host Suzie Suh of CBS LA, the outspoken businesswoman said,” The most important things that I have to give to my children, and my grandchildren are core values. Because material wealth is nothing. It can disappear. But if you have core values like core values of hard work, core values of determination, and core values of having a goal, they last forever.

“So, it is goal setting, obedience to a code of ethics, and determination. In short, GOD.

“God, because with God, everything is possible.”

The wife of the late Wall Street financier and the first Black billionaire dealmaker Reginald F. Lewis, Loida assumed leadership of TLC Beatrice International, a $2.2 billion multinational food company with operations across Europe from 1994-2007. Lewis, the first Asian woman to pass the New York bar exam, shared that her greatest achievement is her family.

She revealed, “It's my two girls - Leslie and Christina. I am so proud of them. When Mr. Lewis died, I knew I would be mother and father to them. And so, both of them graduated from Harvard University with honors. That's one.

“Secondly., after many years, they both graduated. And now my eldest daughter, Leslie, is teaching how to invest in the stock market among African Americans because Mr. Lewis was African American. And Leslie knows, especially after George Floyd, the disparity in economic status of the African American community and the white community. So, by teaching them how to invest in the stock market, she shares her idea that multi-generational wealth can be passed on from generation to generation.

“And Christina, my second daughter, is taking care of highnet-worth individuals, basically African Americans, people of color who have been working and working and created wealth. But once they sell the business, they have $100 million. They really don't know. How do you keep your wealth? And so, I'm very proud of them. And of course, my five grandchildren.

To all the women in the room, the outspoken octogenarian emphasized, “When an opportunity comes along, don’t say no, because it may never come again. If you don’t know how to do the job, you will learn how to do the job. Don’t say ‘Oh, I am not ready.’

You’ll never be ready. That’s my lesson to the women in this room.”

Her memoir, "Why Should Guys Have All the Fun? An Asian American Story of Love, Marriage, Motherhood and Running

A Billion Dollar Empire” was released in March 2023 and was #1 in Amazon’s new releases for eight weeks. In March 2024, the audio version of the book, narrated by herself, was released on Audible, Audiobooks.com and Kobo. In May of the same year, she launched The Loida Lewis Podcast, available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Aside from Lewis, we were also able to talk to community leader and Lewis’ best friend and former classmate, Rocio Nuyda, inductee and host of “Make Your Marc,” Marc Anthony Nicolas, and his guest Pixi ambassador Colleen Nicole Lota, K5 Hawaii News

Now Annalisa Burgos and her mom Odie Burgos, and the Asian Hall of Fame president and CEO Maki Hsieh.

Loida Nicolas Lewis (Distinguished author keynote speaker)

What is the significance of being acknowledged by the Asian Hall of Fame?

Well especially it's May, it’s Asian History Month. It's wonderful that the Asian Hall of Fame has this big gala to recognize Asians

your path and follow it.’

by jAnet susAn r nePAles

who have made good here in the United States. So, it is important. You are a philanthropist, a writer, a podcaster. What else do you dream of?

After my book, “Why Should Guys Have All the Fun?”, my next book will be out in the fall. It is titled “Look Younger When You're Older. No Botox, No Surgery.”

What do you think is the secret of your success?

Basically, it's really what you feel, what you believe in. And since I am a Christian, I believe that everything will be all right in the end. If it's not all right, it's not the end.

You were in the Philippines recently. How was that trip?

I boycotted the Philippines for seven years while the other guy was ruling the Philippines. I said, That's my appreciation of what? The Philippines before him. And so, when I came during the time of President Bongbong Marcos, suddenly on the day, on the week that I was there, the previous president was arrested by Interpol because it’s God's gift to me. I had nothing to do with it. But on the day that I was there, he was picked up.

What is your dream for the Philippines?

My dream for the Philippines is to finally have a president in 2028 who is capable, who is beyond reproach, who has conducted her life well, who has conducted her management as vice president and as mayor of Naga, with integrity, with capability, and with achievement. And so, I am for Leni (Robredo) in 2028.

Rocio Nuyda (Filipino community leader and activist, friend of Loida Nicolas Lewis)

You are the best friend of Loida Nicolas Lewis. So, can you talk about how your friendship started?

Oh, my goodness, it's going to age us. But the friendship started way back when in elementary and high school years, which I'd say about, let's just say 60 plus years ago. That's not the correct number. That's not the right number. But this was when our friendship started. Loida was a consistent class valedictorian. She was always at the top of the class. Nobody could beat her. But there's one thing I'd like you to know. She could not beat me in elocution. She tried, but she didn't. She did not overcome that.

What do you admire about her?

Her humility, her humanity. She's very humane. You will never for a minute know that she's a billionaire. But because of her humility, she's able to adapt to every situation, every environment, to anyone, and that's what I admire most about her. She's a good friend, and she's very religious, too. She's very strong in her faith. She believes that that's what keeps her going. We know her as a philanthropist, as a lawyer, as a podcaster, as an author. How do you know her? Can you tell us a little secret about Loida?

She's very easy to approach. Philanthropy is something that she can easily do. She's very kind, and she's very generous. So, people know that about her. I know that about her. And over the years, she's known for that no matter where she is.

One thing that you can tell about her; she belongs to any environment that she associates with. Like, for example, during one of our reunions, we ran out of beds. We gave up our right to occupy a bed, and we slept on the floor because she wanted everyone else to be comfortable. So that shows you her character. She thinks of others before herself. Have you guys ever disagreed with something?

I really do not recall, but I'm sure there must have been a time when we disagreed. But for the most part, we are sewn from the same fabric. So, we think the same. Our values are the same. Keep in mind, we were under Benedictine nuns for years, and so the values were formed at that time in our young years.

So, after elementary and high school, we were shaped, we were ready for college, and we were ready for life.

Is this your first time to attend the Asian Hall of Fame Heritage Gala?

Yes, it's the first time she invited me as one of her two guests. Fortunately, she's the guest speaker, so I will get to occupy a special seat with her.

How important is Asian representation?

Very, very important. I'd like to say not to sound braggadocio about it, but I'd like to say that, for the most part, Asians are generally educated. And by that, I mean college bred. It's cultural. It's a

value that we inherited from our parents because our parents believed in education, good education. So, whatever a nation may be in any part of the world, because of that background and that education, we can assimilate in any culture that we are exposed to.

When was the last time you were in the Philippines?

Oh, my goodness, 2018. I was supposed to go, but then COVID hit and my children, my grandchildren, did not want me to leave. They did not want me to travel. That was the last time. But I'll tell you a little secret. I might go this year.

What is your hope for the Philippines?

Good governance. Corruption must be eviscerated. There's too much of that. It's almost like. How shall I say it again? It's cultural. Corruption is so. disgusting. It's very disgusting because you never trust what has been lost. You can never trust anyone anymore because they say that once you are elected to the government, they say that that's the best way to earn an income.

For all the Filipinas who dream of making it like Loida, what is your advice?

Stay grounded. Be yourself. No matter what success you earn in life, be yourself. Just be genuine. Be humble, being genuine and sincere shows.

Marc Anthony Nicolas (Inductee 2019, “Make Your Marc” host, two-time Emmy Award winner)

How important or significant is this awards event?

The Asian Hall of Fame is very important. I was inducted in 2019. And it's such an honor to be here with so many Asians. I feel it's time for representation not only for the Filipinos, but also for Asians worldwide. As a Filipino, I try to be the voice of the voiceless. And that's why I also created

“Make Your Marc” on GMA Pinoy TV, where I interview Filipino trailblazers who have made an impact in their chosen careers. It's the third season for “Make Your Marc,” correct?

Yes, Janet. So, the first season was in LA, the second season was in Hawaii, and the third season was in the Philippines. I was born in the Philippines. And I came here when I was four years old, and I haven't been there for so long. So, I was there with open eyes. I eat the street food, and I went to the beaches, and I interviewed Filipino trailblazers like Christian Bautista and also Miss Universe Philippines. So, it was an amazing experience, a moment I'll never forget.

I know you started very rough in Hollywood, so tell us a little bit about that.

Oh my God. I started waiting tables in Olive Garden, and I knew that I was destined to be in the entertainment industry. So, I sent out my resumes everywhere. I even sent it to The Oprah Winfrey Show. But every time it was denied because I didn't have any background experience. So, my co-worker Lindsay who gave me my first shot. She's like, I'm leaving. I'm going to be part of a reality show. Please think of me if you ever need a production assistant. So, two weeks later, she called me, got my foot in the door, became a PA, and I worked my way up. And that is a lesson for me, because it only takes one person to believe in you. And that's why I give everyone so many opportunities, and I help in whatever way I can to make their dreams come true in this world. Because I know it's so hard, but it only takes that one special person to help you. You're an Emmy Award-winning producer as well. So, what else do you dream of for yourself?

Oh my God. Well, I'm going to tell you something right now. I just got the news. I just got hired to be a producer on “The Price is Right.” So, I was researching, I'm the first Filipino producer there, and it's been on for over 65 years. So, I have so many ideas for Filipino History Month, and maybe get some Filipino celebrities on there, too. So basically, what I want to do in mainstream media is to have Filipinos and Asians more visible. And that's why, in “The Talk,” I invited Dr. Tess Mauricio and Chef Valerie Castillo Archer. I do what I can as a producer behind the scenes to help raise awareness in the Filipino community, to help get Filipino guests on these mainstream shows.

What would you advise other Filipinos who want to follow in your footsteps?

My advice is dreams do not have expiration, so whether you're 20, 40, 60, or 80 years old,

the sky's the limit. Do not ever give up because the only person who will ever believe in you is yourself. And also, be kind and help people along the way. And God and the universe will bestow so many blessings upon you. You were in the Philippines recently. How many years before you went home?

Oh my God, 30 years. I was like, where am I? I was like, oh my God. I was like, wow, this is amazing. I mean, there are so many things to do and so many people to see.

Christian Bautista taught me Filipino words as well. Gutom ako. I'm hungry. And mahal kita. But the Filipino community over there is strongly bonded. They are legit and want to help you in any way possible. So, I'm just glad that I went there for two months. I was there for two months, and I got a lot of sunburn, and I met a lot of people, too.

If you had a chance to change something in the Philippines, what would it be?

I would love to change the poverty there. In my time, I want to help raise money and probably partner up or collaborate with a charity to help raise money for the less fortunate over there. Because in the Philippines, I did see some underprivileged kids. So, I want to be able to help in some way, shape or form by giving money or raising money for those in need.

Colleen Nicole Lota (Pixi Ambassador, friend of Marc Anthony Nicolas)

How did your friendship with Marc start?

Oh, my friendship with Marc started with Chef Val. We met at Yamashiro restaurant when she was the executive chef there, and she connected us. And then we got reconnected with my high school friend, Ranella Ferrer, and she connected us further, which evolved our friendship even more.

What kind of friend is Marc?

Marc is my best friend, and he's so supportive. He always checks up on you. He'll always look out for your best interest, your career, and your goals, and he's always there. If you need him. He'll always pick up the call. He'll always text you right away. Have you guys ever disagreed?

I wouldn't say we have yet. If we did, I know that it would be positive and it would be constructive and learning from our friendship, that we would just want to make sure that both of us are happy and both of our feelings aren't hurt, and that we clear the air and move on.

Is this your first time here in the Asian Hall of Fame?

It is. And it's such an honor to be amongst fellow Asians in the community.

Why do you think Asian representation is very important?

It's very important so that we can continue to be seen and heard throughout the community and throughout the world.

And you are the ambassador for Pixi. Tell us more about that.

We started in 1999. We're a brand that's cruelty-free, paraben-free, and vegan. And all of our formulations are made with natural botanical ingredients. And we're found all around the world.

Annalisa Burgos (K5 Hawaii News Now)

Is this your first time here at the Asian Hall of Fame Heritage Gala?

It is. I actually helped launch the Asian Hall of Fame in Hawaii because we're based in Hawaii. So, it's such an honor to be invited to come for the LA Heritage Gala and spread the love of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

How challenging was it for you to break in as a newscaster?

A little bit challenging because as a Filipino, I didn't have very many role models when I was growing up. Maybe Connie Chung, but she wasn't Filipino, right? So, I think just being an Asian American in TV was a challenge.

But we have that word in Tagalog, masipag. So just keep working hard and don't let anyone tell you you can't do otherwise. You always just work really hard. I owe a lot of my success to my mom, a single mom, and just taught me the values of working really hard and just dreaming big.

Did you grow up in Hawaii or in the Philippines?

No, I'm actually from LA, originally from here, and then I worked at ABS-CBN for maybe three years and just lived all over the world as a journalist.

What was your secret in breaking into Hollywood?

On TV here in the United States, just basically being authentic, being honest, and doing good work, like doing your research, working

really hard. It doesn't come easy.

But if you do the hard work and you meet amazing people, mentorship, connections, and being part of the community, that helps you get along far because you can't do it by yourself.

What was the best lesson your mother taught you?

Don't believe the haters. People are always going to talk about you. Maybe they don't believe in you or maybe discourage you from achieving your dreams, but don't believe it if you believe in yourself and if you believe in what you can do and have support with you. Then you can do anything.

Have you been to the Philippines lately?

Oh my gosh, not in the last two years ago. It's been a couple years, but because I have a lot of friends and family still there. But I'm sad to say that ABS-CBN has changed since I was there as an anchor. Hopefully, the stories of the Filipinos are still being told.

My goal as a Filipino journalist here was really to help uplift the diaspora, right? The Filipinos here and just sharing success stories just like you guys, Golden Globes members.

So, what is your dream for the Philippines?

Oh my gosh. Just to remain resilient, but not just exporting our labor, but having people come home because the big challenge of the Philippines is that so many people are leaving to take jobs elsewhere. But I think there's so much talent that Filipinos have. If they can come home and give it back to their country and uplift the country.

I'm not from there. I was not born there. But I went back to help uplift and do my part in contributing and helping people be aware of the success that Filipinos are not just on pageants and boxing, but in everything else. What would you advise Filipinos who want to follow your footsteps? Believe in yourself and make connections. Build support because you can't do it by yourself. You really have to have a support system to be strong and get through it. It's hard, right? You can be discouraged. You can be depressed. Social media is so terrible now, right? So, you just have to have the belief and faith in yourself.

Odie Burgos (mother of Annalisa Burgos) What can you say about your daughter? I am so proud of her and her achievements. She is very successful. What do you think was the best advice you gave to her? Be yourself. I raised her as a single parent, and that is difficult, especially living here in the US. So, I am very happy and proud that all my sacrifices were worth it because she is very successful.

Mother’s Day is coming up. What are you looking forward to?

I am attending a senior citizens event so we’re celebrating it on that day. And today is also an early Mother’s Day celebration for me.

Maki Hsieh (Asian Hall of Fame President and CEO)

Can you talk about why the Asian Hall of Fame was created?

The Asian Hall of Fame was established in Seattle 22 years ago by a family that came from China. They've been in America for years. And even though they're very successful, they created America's first bank. There are lawyers. There are politicians. They didn't think that Asians were of a very high level, high stature in America. So, they created another Seattle Hall of Fame to bring all Asian leaders together to make sure that we evangelize to the American society that all people, not only Asian people, are our compassion, our legacy to the community. I saw it. I love Seattle headquarters. We've really grown to having an event every month. The Heritage Gala is so wonderful. So, we ask everyone to wear a heritage dress like your Filipino dress. And we're asking everyone, even if you're not from this culture, if you like to celebrate, we ask everyone to celebrate the tradition. So, we're very honored here today to celebrate with everyone in our history.

Why is Asian representation important?

I believe Asian representation is the first step, but it is not the final step. It is not the answer. You can have 100 Asians in the room, but one person walks in, not Asian. Everyone thinks that's the most important person. And why? It's because we don't have a strong Asian evaluation. It's not representation that is answered. You can flood the market with 1,000 Filipino stories, but nobody is listening. The value has to be here. So, we are committed as Asians, just like all the other things, like the Baseball Hall of Fame, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, lots of things. We all do the same thing, which is to make sure legacy is honored, and then mainstream society recognizes their contributions. (For more information on the Asian Hall of Fame (AHOF), go to www.asianhalloffame.org)

Why business owners should think about their succession plan Protecting what you’ve built:

Business owners often have a million things to juggle with day-to-day operations. Have you taken the time to slow down and think about what you can be doing now to prepare yourself and your business for later in life? If the answer is no, you aren’t alone. Although 76% of business owners plan to transition over the next 10 years, only 35% of businesses have a formalized succession plan in place.

You’ve worked hard to grow your business, so it’s important to think about what will happen when you want to move on from the company – whether that’s retirement, selling the business or trying something new. Thoughtful planning in advance can help give business owners peace of mind knowing that both you and your business will be cared for in retirement. A plan can also ensure your employees are cared for and, if you choose, allow your business to continue serving the local community.

Here are some tips for business owners to consider:

Having a plan is key

Planning ahead can help give you peace of mind and avoid unnecessary stress in the future. Everyone’s situation is unique, so make sure your plan incorporates your personal needs and desires. A financial advisor can be a helpful partner in putting together your plan. They can also identify how you can work towards your personal and retirement goals, separate from equity you may have in your business.

Also consider working with an estate planning attorney to help incorporate your business into your estate plan. A basic estate plan for most business owners should include: a revocable trust, a will, a financial power of attorney, a health care power of attorney and beneficiary designations. Make sure to review these documents periodically with your attorney to ensure they still reflect your wishes.

Build a trusted team

Assembling a team of trusted professionals can play a big role in making sure your preferences are honored

after you transition away from the business. They can also help evaluate the value of your business, which can be important to know in the succession planning process.

Consider including your financial advisor, certified public accountant, business and estate planning attorney, insurance advisors, business valuation professional, investment bankers and/or business brokers. Spending time, effort and money now to build a team of people you trust can help drive more favorable outcomes in the end.

Don’t forget about your own retirement

When it comes to investing for retirement, the sooner the better – whether you are a business owner or not. Starting with investing now can give your money more time to potentially grow.

If you don’t have a company-funded 401(k), there are other retirement planning options for business owners to consider, like an IRA or solo 401(k). Make sure to consult your tax advisor, as they can help you understand the tax implications of each option and identify which one may be right for you.

Securing your legacy

Taking the time now to thoughtfully plan for your retirement as a business owner may seem daunting, but it can help ensure peace of mind later in life. There’s a lot to consider, so staying informed is key. If you’re looking for more resources in your financial journey as a business owner, visit our library of free educational content at chase.com/theknow. ***

JPMorgan Chase & Co., its affiliates, and employees do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any financial transaction.

J.P. Morgan Wealth Management is a business of JPMorgan Chase & Co., which offers investment products and services through J.P. Morgan Securities LLC (JPMS), a registered broker-dealer and investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC.

Photo credit: arto_canon/ iStock / Getty Images Plus.