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JULY 3-9, 2020 Volume 13 - No. 35 • 16 Pages 133-30 32nd Ave., Flushing, NY 11354 • 2500 Plaza S. Harborside Financial Center, Jersey City, NJ 07311 • Tel. (212) 655-5426 • Fax: (818) 502-0858
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FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
Los Angeles Fil-Am community mourns SIPA executive director who died from COVID-19 by CHRISTINA
M. ORIEL
AJPress
WHEN the coronavirus hit Los Angeles County, John Eric Swing, the newly appointed executive director of Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA), led a food delivery project for seniors and families in Historic Filipinotown. Swing, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who joined the non-profit organization in 2015 and served as its director of small business development before assuming the top leadership role, continued advising entrepreneurs in the community online as they weathered the effects of the pandemic. These efforts caught the attention of the California State Senate, which recognized SIPA and Swing as “Unsung Heroes of Southern California.”
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New York, New Jersey postpone indoor dining as COVID cases surge across the US by MOMAR
G. VISAYA
AJPress
Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
UN rights chief urges Duterte not to sign anti-terrorism bill by RITCHEL
MENDIOLA AJPress
THE United Nations’ human rights chief on Tuesday, June 30, appealed to President Rodrigo Duterte to “refrain from signing” the controversial anti-terrorism bill as it “heightens concerns about the blurring of important
distinctions between criticism, criminality and terrorism.” UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet also noted that human rights defenders have been routinely smeared as terrorists, enemies of the State and even viruses akin to the novel coronavirus. “The law could have a further chilling effect
on human rights and humanitarian work, hindering support to vulnerable and marginalized communities,” she said during the 44th regular session of the UN Human Rights Council. “So I would urge the President to refrain from signing the law, and to initiate a broadbased consultation process to draft legislation
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European Union travel ban deems PH, US not part of ‘safe countries’ by RITCHEL
MENDIOLA AJPress
STARTING July 1, countries in the European Union (EU) will open their borders to nonessential travelers from 15 countries that are deemed to have the coronavirus under control. The Philippines, as well as the United States, did not make the cut in the list. EU countries will begin lifting the travel restrictions at the external borders for residents of Algeria, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Montenegro, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, Serbia, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, Uruguay, and China.
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MOBILE TESTING. Health workers assist residents of Baesa, Quezon City undergoing swab tests at a mobile testing unit parked along Mendez Street on Wednesday, July 1. The mobile unit goes around the communities to test residents for COVID-19. Inquirer.net photo by Grig Montegrande
WHO: PH doing well in COVID-19 fight 6 Pinoys join Trump re-election
campaign’s AAPI advisory board
by RITCHEL
MENDIOLA AJPress
GOV. Phil Murphy stopped the supposed reopening of restaurants in the state this week for a few reasons, among them the violations in some restaurants that have opened for Phase 2 a couple of weeks ago soaring infection rates from the states that have reopened across the country. New Jersey allowed outdoor dining on June 15. Since the lockdown in March, restaurants have only been permitted to provide takeout or delivery services. Now, opening doors to allow diners to
THE World Health Organization on Tuesday, June 30, clarified that it did not say that the Philippines had the fastest rise in COVID-19 cases in the Western Pacific Region. According to WHO Country Representative to the Philippines Dr. Rabindra
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by AJPRESS
WHO Country Representative Dr. Rabindra Abeyasinghe ManilaTimes.net photo by Gerard Seguia
WITH four months until Election Day, six Filipino Americans are among those helping President Donald Trump’s re-election campaign court the fast-growing Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) electorate. The recently announced
“Asian Pacific Americans for Trump,” includes a 26-member advisory board of AAPI elected officials, grassroots leaders and business owners. Asian Americans are now the fastest-growing demographic of eligible voters out of the major racial and ethnic groups, comprising 4.7% of the electorate this 2020, ac-
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From the Front Page
Los Angeles Fil-Am community mourns... UN rights chief urges Duterte not to... PAGE 1 However, by the penultimate week of June, Swing’s virtual work came to a halt when he tested positive for COVID-19 and was subsequently admitted to Fountain Valley Regional Hospital due to several complications. (The circumstances around how he contracted the virus are unknown.) His family reached out to the community that he devoted his career to, in turn, for prayers and support for medical and living expenses. On Sunday night, June 28 — two days after a GoFundMe page was started by his sister, Karen Bromley and a week into his hospitalization— Swing succumbed to the disease at the age of 48. In an announcement of his passing, Bromley echoed what dozens of members of the local LA community have remembered about her older brother: his infectious smile, generosity, and ability to connect with others upon the first meeting. “Kuya’s spirit is so big and
warm, I know he will continue to live in each and every one of us. He is the most generous person I know and genuinely cared for anyone he met. He knew you, even if you met for only 5 minutes thirty years ago. You made an impact on him and he carried you with him. He made everyone feel welcome, at home, and at ease,” Bromley wrote on the page. The fundraising campaign exceeded its $20,000 goal and has raised nearly $50,000, as of this writing. The funds will go toward a memorial and a family savings account for his wife Ellen Rodriguez-Swing and their children, Zachary, Joshua, Chloe, Mackenzie, Nico and Sasha. “It’s really hard to imagine today and forever without him. But I ask you to honor him by continuing his life’s mission to build community. He was so proud to be part of SIPA in Los Angeles and so excited [to] become its Executive Director. It’s a tragedy that he won’t be able to lead the community through these
times, but I know he’s inspired many to take on that torch,” Bromley added. Swing, who commuted into LA from the Inland Empire daily, had spent most of his years at the organization cultivating its small business counseling services, such as its biannual Entrepreneur Training Program. After a year-long nationwide search for an individual to lead one of the oldest Fil-Am organizations in the U.S., SIPA’s board of directors found a fitting candidate internally and voted Swing to assume the post in April. “I am honored to be able to support, advocate, and program for the needs of the greater Filipino American community. While SIPA is centered on diversity and culture, we also work in the culture of changing all lives for the better. I invite everyone to join us in this effort as we build a stronger community in Historic Filipinotown and beyond,” Swing was quoted as saying, according to an un-
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PAGE 1 that can effectively prevent and counter violent extremism – but which contains some safeguards to prevent its misuse against people engaged in peaceful criticism and advocacy,” she added. Bachelet also said that her office is ready to assist in reviewing the proposed measure. Duterte on June 22 said the bill was still being reviewed by Malacañang’s legal team. The anti-terrorism bill, which seeks to strengthen the Human Security Act of 2007, grants any law enforcer to arrest and detain without warrant “a person suspected of committing any of the acts” punishable under the measure for 14 calendar days, extendable by 10 days. The suspected “terrorist” can also be placed under surveillance for 60 days, extendable by up to 30 more days, by the police or the military. Acts punishable under the bill include: • Engaging in acts intended to cause death or serious bodily injury to any person, or endangers a person’s life; • Engaging in acts intended to cause extensive damage or destruction to a government or public facility, public place, or private property; • Engaging in acts intended to cause extensive interference with, damage,
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet presents report on the human rights situation in the Philippines during the 44th regular session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland on Tuesday, June 30. Photo screengrabed from UN Web TV
or destruction to critical infrastructure; • Developing, manufacturing, possessing, acquiring, transporting, supplying or using weapons; and • Releasing of dangerous substances, or causing fire, floods or explosions. Any person who will propose, incite, conspire, participate in the planning, training, preparation, and facilitation of a terrorist act, as well as those who will provide material support to terrorists and recruit members in a terrorist organization, will also be penalized by life imprisonment without the benefit of parole.
Meanwhile, anyone who will threaten to commit terrorism, and those who will propose any terroristic acts or incite others to commit terrorism will suffer imprisonment of 12 years. This goes the same for anyone who will voluntarily and knowingly join any organization, association or group of persons knowing that such is a terrorist organization. Malacañang on June 9 confirmed that it has received a copy of the anti-terrorism bill. The president has 30 days to act on the legislation or else the bill will lapse into law 30 days after receipt. n
WHO: PH doing well in COVID-19 fight... PAGE 1 Abeyasinghe, the WHO does not compare countries or make assessments based on countries’ performance. “It is not the World Health Organization that did this. I’ve seen a lot of comments and commentaries, points of view that the World Health Organization did this. The World Health Organization does not compare countries or make such assessments,” he said. Abeyasinghe pointed out that it was a journalist who interpreted WHO’s report in a certain way. “All those assessments were done by a journalist of the Inquirer in the Philippines using the data that we have in our dashboard like many other dashboards that are globally available,” he said. “It is unfair to say that the WHO has made that com-
ment or assessment. We did not,” he added. The WHO official then lauded the Philippines for its response to the pandemic. “The Philippines has been doing relatively well,” Abeyangsinghe said. He added, “We are happy that the Philippines enforced early lockdowns, which actually helped prevent possibly hundreds of thousands of cases and thousands of deaths.” However, he pointed out that the “compliance” with the Department of Health’s guidelines to contain the spread of COVID-19 “does not seem to be universally good.” “The DOH has come up with very good guidelines on how to manage positive cases, how to quarantine them – but the implementation at local government levels in different areas of the country
is different. So we see poor compliance with the guidelines, we are seeing that number of cases increasing and this is actually becoming a worrying situation,” noted Abeyangsinghe. The official urged the Philippines to improve its contact tracing efforts. “What we are advocating is that the DOH and the government – as they invest in expanding testing capacity – to invest (also) in actually contact tracing, identifying contacts, and quarantining and isolating them so that we prevent further transmission from those cases,” he said. “Unfortunately, this aspect of the Philippine response needs a little more strengthening. There is improvement in the last month but is not keeping pace with the pace of the expansion of the testing capacity,” Abeyasinghe added. n
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European Union... PAGE 1 However, China is “subject to confirmation of reciprocity,” which means it will depend if the country will open its borders to European travelers. The list was created based on criteria that include the country’s epidemiological situation, and containment measures such as physical distancing, as well as economic and social considerations. Regarding the epidemiological situation, the listed countries need to meet the following criteria:
• number of new COVID-19 cases over the last 14 days and per 100,000 inhabitants close to or below the EU average as of June 15; • stable or decreasing trend of new cases over this period in comparison to the previous 14 days; • overall response to COVID-19, which includes testing, surveillance, contact tracing, containment, treatment and reporting, as well as the reliability of the information and, if needed, the total average score for International Health Regulations (IHR).
According to the European Council, the list will be reviewed every two weeks, and that countries may be added or removed, depending on how well they are in controlling the outbreak. It also said that for the countries where travel restrictions continue to apply, only those who are EU citizens, long-term EU residents, and travelers with an essential function or need like healthcare professionals, transport personnel, diplomats, military and humanitarian workers, seafarers, passengers in transit shall be exempted from the restrictions. n
6 Pinoys join Trump re-election campaign’s... PAGE 1 cording to a recent Pew Research Center report. Pinoy advisory members include Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes, who is one of the co-chairs; former Guam Governor Eddie Baza Calvo; Vellie Dietrich-Hall, an entrepreneur from Virginia; Brunswick, Ohio Mayor and attorney Ron Falconi; Herman Martir, a pastor from Fort Worth, Texas; and Shirlene Ostrov, a retired U.S. Air Force colonel and chair of the Hawaii Republican Party. “I am thrilled to be working again with officials from the Trump campaign and the RNC to be a conservative voice in Asian American communities so that we can re-elect the president,” Falconi, who also participated in the president’s 2016 campaign, told the Asian Journal. On the website for the group, the description reads: “Asian Pacific Americans stand with President Trump to defend freedom, strengthen the American Dream and create a prosperous future with abundant opportunities for generations to come. Asian Pacific Americans cherish the
United States as our precious homeland and we will ensure President Trump’s victory in November so our communities and families can continue to thrive under ‘Promises Made, Promises Kept’ for FOUR MORE YEARS!” This past January, Calvo and Martir were sworn into the president’s Advisory Commission on AAPIs, which “works to broaden access by AAPI employers and communities to economic resources and opportunities.” Calvo — who was the governor of Guam from 2011 to 2019 — also served as a Trump surrogate during the APIAVote Presidential Town Hall on Saturday, June 27. Reyes, who is Filipino on his father’s side, is also seeking reelection for his position and has received an endorsement from Trump himself. “Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes (@SeanReyesUT) is a fighter and hard worker for the Great State of Utah. He is a big supporter of our #MAGA Agenda – Strong on Crime, the Second Amendment, and Loves our Law Enforcement,” Trump tweeted in April. In a 2018 Asian American
Los Angeles Fil-Am... PAGE 2 released announcement from the organization about his new role. Eddy Gana, a counselor who runs SIPA’s Mental Health Outreach Program, recalled Swing’s encouragement and open-door policy. “He once said, ‘If there’s ever anything, you can give me a call. Anytime.’ I would joke, ‘So how about 2 or 3 a.m.?’ He’d reply, ‘Of course!’ Every meeting thereafter, he’d pretend to have a phone to his ear and say, ‘You can still call me anytime. I’m waiting! I haven’t received any late-
night calls yet,’” said Gana. Swing was slated to helm the 48-year-old organization as its Historic Filipinotown headquarters is scheduled to undergo a mixed-use redevelopment project this year. Following his death, the board approved a motion to name its future small business center, the “John Eric Swing Small Business Center.” Aside from his time at SIPA, Swing was assistant executive director of Filipino American Service Group, Inc. (FASGI), where he helped with the mental health, low-income rider relief, and naturalization
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BACK ON THE ROAD. A UV Express van plies the Aguinaldo Highway in Bacoor, Cavite on Monday, June 29. The government has allowed the operation of around 1,000 UV Express units in Metro Manila and nearby provinces to augment mass transportation for commuters under the general community quarantine. PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan
Voter Survey released by APIAVote and AAPI Data, 48% of Filipinos surveyed said they had a “favorable” view of the Republican Party, while 50% said they had a “favorable” view of Democratic Party. “Our group only has a short period of time before November comes around, and we should focus on our goals. We need to fight back against the mainstream media/Democrat message that all APAs are liberals and vote to the left. Our community is not monolithic, we have a wide variety of views and political opinions,” Falconi added. “Highlighting conservative Asian Pacific American leaders across the country who support Donald Trump will help to go against this stereotype. We also need to rally and convince APAs within all of our communities to vote for the GOP this fall because they represent our beliefs and our values.” The same survey found that 48% of Filipinos said they approve of the way Trump was handling his job as president, while another 48% said they disapproved. n
New York, New Jersey postpone indoor...
programs, and was the business director of the annual Festival of Philippine Arts & Culture. He was also an executive board member of the Coalition of Filipino American Chambers of Commerce (COFACC). “Although John never looked to be in the spotlight, the spotlight shined ever so brightly on him as he led by example as opposed to just talk,” COFACC said in a statement. In addition to his wife and children, Swing is survived by his parents, Aurora and Ellis Swing, and siblings. A virtual memorial for Swing is scheduled for Tuesday, July 7. n
PAGE 1 eat inside a restaurant as part of Phase 3 has been scrapped indefinitely. No new reopening date has been announced. “Given the current situation in numerous other states we do not believe it is prudent at this time to push forward with what is, in effect, a sedentary indoor activity – especially when we know that this virus moves differently indoors than out, making it even more deadly,” Murphy said in his regular press briefing this week. Mayor Bill de Blasio followed suit and said “now is not the time to forge ahead” and that New York
Majority of young people in the US are non-white for the first time ever
Asian population sees biggest population rate growth THE United States has grown more racially and ethnically diverse over the last decade and is expected to grow even more so as the nation’s non-white population increases. According to the latest population estimates by the U.S. Census Bureau released on Thursday, June 25, nonwhites made up the majority of people under the age of 16 in 2019 for the first time ever. Meanwhile, the white population in the U.S. has seen a decrease in the past 10 years primarily due to the number of births being overshadowed by the number of deaths. The decrease in births in the demographic
has been made evident by the decrease in people under the age of 18 in the last decade. The nation’s white population in 2019 was the lowest ever recorded at 60.1%, according to the report. The age group in which the demographic was seeing growth was in the baby boom generation — a group that in general has been seeing growth as more people born between 1946 and 1964 reach 65 years old. The median age of the non-Hispanic white population last year was higher than any demographic group at 43.7. “As the nation has continued to gray, it has also grown
City would also postpone indoor dining indefinitely. “Indoors is the problem. The science is showing it more and more. We cannot go ahead at this point in time with indoor dining in New York City,” de Blasio said Wednesday. “Even a week ago we were hopeful we could but it keeps getting worse and worse around the country.” Videos of restaurants in the Jersey Shore area surfaced online and went viral this week, showing large crowds in outdoor dining areas who were not practicing social distancing. “I get it. By the way, we all get it. There is pent up emotion to get back outside. We
more racially and ethnically diverse,” the release read. Experts expect the nonHispanic white population in the U.S. to be the minority in about 25 years. Biggest growth rate among Asian population The U.S. population has in general been seeing growth in the last decade from a population number of about 308 million in 2010 to about 329 million in 2019. As steady population increases were seen in nonHispanic groups, the Asian population saw the biggest increase of any demographic mostly due to international migration. In 2019, the Asian popula-
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all want to be out,” Murphy said. “But there is no reason to be a knucklehead.” The state had previously provided the details for the eventual reopening of restaurants, including capacity limits at 25% and tables spaced 6 feet apart. Murphy also cited the spikes in other states brought about by the return of patrons to indoor dining establishments and staying there for significant periods of time without face coverings. “Keep your distances. Wear your masks. Be smart and courteous – the world just isn’t about you. It’s about all 9 million of us,” he said. n
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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • JULY 3-9, 2020
OPINION
FEATURES
Fine-tune the response NO one is perfect, and the Duterte administration is doing its best to address the challenges posed by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. This was Malacañang’s reaction on Monday. June 29 to the World Health Organization’s report that the Philippines is registering the fastest increase in COVID-19 cases among 22 countries in the Western Pacific region. The Department of Health had earlier urged the WHO not to “cherry pick” countries for comparison in the region, as it balked at the Philippines being rated worse than Singapore in the number of new COVID infections from June 16 to June 27. Aside from disputing the WHO assessment, the government should see it as an additional challenge to ramp up capabilities for containing COVID-19. The WHO was not criticizing any country but merely reporting the status of the pandemic in the region. Those criticizing the response of the Duterte administration are mainly in the Philippines. They say that the government has failed to maximize the three-month quarantine, which has ruined the economy and
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worsened poverty, to sufficiently increase capabilities for contact tracing, isolation and mass testing using the real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction test. Local government officials outside the National Capital Region are complaining about the recent spread of COVID in their areas because of the poorly coordinated return of locally stranded individuals and repatriated overseas workers from the NCR. As of 4 p.m. on Monday, the DOH Bulletin No. 107 showed 36,438 COVID infections nationwide, with 985 confirmed cases added – 643 of them fresh cases and 342 late. The death toll rose to 1,255 with the addition of 11 fatalities. Recoveries, meanwhile, reached 9,956 with 270 reported. An expert warned that COVID cases could hit 60,000 by July 31 amid the surge in Cebu City, which prompted the national government to revert the city to enhanced community quarantine. The contagion may be slowing down in Metro Manila, the epicenter of the pandemic in the country, but it appears to be on the rise in parts of the Visayas.
Editorial
After shutting down ABS-CBN on May 5, the Duterte Administration’s NTC now directs network to stop operating Sky Direct, TV Plus The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS IF you and your family have been depending on Sky Direct, TV Plus for news and entertainment, especially after the Duterte Administration’s
National Telecommunications Commission ordered the shutdown of the Philippines’ biggest broadcasting network ABS-CBN and its subsidiaries on May 5 amid the country’s fight against the coronavirus pandemic, then effective June 30, you will no longer be able to watch programs via these digital platforms. As ABS-CBN News reported, “While channel 43 is not mentioned in NTC’s cease
and desist order (CDO) of May 5, 2020, and it is ABS-CBN’s informed understanding that channel 43 is not included in the CDO, digital TV transmission in Metro Manila using channel 43 will cease tonight (June 30), consistent with the intent of the alias CDO.” ABS-CBN Corp issued a statement on the NTC order vs TV Plus channels: At 2:26 PM today, ABSPAGE 10
Philstar.com photo
Around the world, protecting public health and reviving the economy is a difficult balancing act. There are places that have done better than most and can serve as models
in containing COVID-19, among them Hong Kong, Taiwan and Vietnam. The latest WHO assessment should lead to fine-tuning of the Philippine response. (Philstar.com)
Reach back to your roots but grow new fruits Street Talk GREG B. MACABENTA I HAD an interesting exchange on social media with a good friend, over the issues of “colonial mentality” and “assimilation.” My friend stated, with a hint of sarcasm,
“Forgive me If I seem to relate more to the American culture and way of life unlike some of my close friends that came to America when they are fully grown and find it difficult to assimilate, I did not have the luxury of bringing the colonial mentality with me to use as a crutch. I don’t think myself as a minority but simply an American.” Sensing the patronizing tone, I responded, “By the way a ‘colonial mentality’ is
not a ‘luxury.’ It is a manifestation of an inferiority complex.” It was then that I recalled a speech I delivered before FilAm students in Maryland in the mid-90s, on the subject of “assimilation” and the seeming conflict between being “Pinoy” and being “Kano,” an issue that today’s young FilAms may still be struggling with. (Speech delivered at the PAGE 8
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.
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Dateline PhiliPPines
Anti-terror bill untouched on Duterte’s desk as automatic enactment nears by Ian
nIcolas cIgaral Philstar.com
MANILA — The controversial anti-terrorism bill remains sitting on President Rodrigo Duterte’s desk eight days before the much-criticized measure lapses into law. Despite securing all the necessary legal opinions on the measure, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the Chief Executive has not acted on the bill. “Wala pa po,” Roque said in a text message when asked whether the bill has been signed. An inaction from Duterte, however, would not be good news for critics of the measure. Under the Constitution, the president has 30 days from receipt of the enrolled copy of the bill to approve or veto the measure, otherwise the bill would lapse into law. That month-long deadline would end on July 9. The contentious anti-terrorism measure is being heavily criticized for the same reasons its predecessor, the Human Security Act of 2007, was slammed during the Arroyo administration. At the time, while the measure was passed, legislators inserted strong protections against potential
human rights abuses on the bill, foremost of which was the P500,000 per day penalty for wrongful detention. The current bill seeks to remove that, with authors like Sen. Panfilo Lacson saying that the hefty penalty has made the fight against terrorism ineffective. Critics disagreed, and said the planned amendments to the 2007 law would risk abuses if entrusted in the wrong hands of the police or military, criticized for their approach on the drugs war and activists. There were other questionable provisions including a 24-day jail term for suspected terrorists without a proper case, the power of an AntiTerrorism Council composed of Cabinet men and women to “designate” terrorists, and the bill’s potential chilling effect on valid dissent. Supporters including former Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio say, however, dissent is specifically protected under the bill, but critics alleged the provisions stating such can be subject to many interpretations. What’s more, the timing of the bill’s passage in Congress did not evoke any signs of goodwill, critics said. The measure breezed through the
House of Representatives a day after the Duterte certified the bill urgent, allowing it to get passed into second and third readings on the same day. While public pressure— including June 12 Independence Day protests— forced around 16 legislators to drop support to the bill, congressional leaders were swift to transmit the proposed law to Malacanang for signature, in an apparent bid to stop any possible plans for withdrawal. To temper criticism, the Palace has asked the justice department and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines for comments on the bill. The IBP expressed reservations over the extended jail time while still building cases. Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra, meanwhile, refused to make public his legal opinion. “Our main parameter is, of course, the Philippine Constitution,” Guevarra said in a text message. How Duterte will act on the bill will not be the last the public will hear of the measure. Lawyers at the National Union of People’s Lawyers already said they are ready to challenge the measure before the Supreme Court as soon as it is passed. n
Cops kill 4 military agents; Army chief cries rubout by Jeannette
I. andrade, JulIe M. alIpala Inquirer.net
AN outraged Army chief Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay on Tuesday, June 30 denounced what he called the murder of four soldiers who were returning from an intelligence mission when they were allegedly gunned down by police officers in Jolo, Sulu. The four men had just come from a surveillance operation against suspected terrorists in nearby Patikul town on Monday, June 29 when they were shot close to the Jolo police station, according to Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, commander of Joint Task Force Sulu. Another soldier, who was riding on a motorcycle, was with the group but was un-
FARMERS PRODUCE NOW IN SUPERMARKETS. Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary William Dar (right) and Resto PH (group of restaurant owners) president Eric Teng do the elbow bump after the signing of Memorandum of Understanding with SM Supermalls on Wednesday, July 1 for a joint project called the “Farmers Produce” at the DA central office in Quezon City. The project aims to provide livelihood support to farmers and fishermen and help reboot the restaurant industry amid the COVID19 pandemic. Under the agreement, SM will provide underutilized spaces free of charge for farmers and cooperatives for the selling of their local produce. PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler
No signs of life in search for 14 boat crew by robertzon
raMIrez
Philstar.com
MANILA — There were no signs of life on the second day of search and rescue operations for 14 Filipinos who went missing following a sea collision in the waters off Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro on Saturday, June 27. As this developed, the Philippine Coast Guard is looking at the civil and criminal liabilities of the crewmembers of the Hong Kong-registered M/V Vienna Wood for not helping the 14 Filipinos even as the F/B Liberty 5 was sinking, according to PCG Vice Adm. George Ursabia. “According to them, they just stopped and remained in the area without deploying any small boat to conduct
search and rescue or extend assistance to the fishing vessel,” Ursabia said during a virtual presser on Tuesday, June 30. Ursabia said the Vienna Wood did not leave the scene even as responding vessels started to arrive at the scene. The PCG said it would get the side of the responding vessels to shed light on the matter. Ursabia is ruling out the possibility that Vienna Wood intentionally hit Liberty 5, noting that visibility was poor in the area due to heavy downpour and bad sea condition. He said initial investigation showed that Vienna Wood rammed Liberty 5 based on the damage seen on both vessels. Vienna Wood sustained a
hole at the front while Liberty 5 suffered damage on the left side. Ursabia said they are also looking into the liabilities of the crewmembers based on their responsiveness and promptness in sending distress calls. He said it took the foreigners three hours before deciding to send a distress call. Vienna Wood sent the distress call through e-mail, which is acceptable depending on the location of the vessel. Ursabia said the crewmembers could have tried using the VHF radio, but they were possibly out of range. The incident happened on the night of June 27 and Vienna Wood’s e-mail was PAGE 10
Majority of young people in the US... Army soldiers hold solemn rites on Tuesday, June 30 at Villamor Air Base for three of their four fallen comrades who were killed not by terrorists but police in Jolo, Sulu, a day earlier. The four Army intelligence officers were allegedly gunned down in what Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, the Army commander, said was a rubout near the Jolo police headquarters. The National Bureau of Investigation is looking into the incident. Inquirer.net photo by Edwin Bacasmas
harmed. The bodies of Maj. Marvin A. Indammog, 39, Cpt. Irwin B. Managuelod, 33, and Sgt. Jaime M. Velasco, 38, were flown on Tuesday to Villamor
Air Base in Manila where they were received with honors by Army soldiers led by Gapay. Cpl. Abdal Asula, a native of Jolo who drove the PAGE 8
PAGE 4 tion in the United States was 22,861,985 — an increase of 5,185,297 or 29% since 2010. The White population in comparison rose 4.3% over the last decade from 248,075,996 to 258,646,488. The county with the largest Asian population of 1,716,196 in 2019 was Los Angeles County. It also had the largest numeric population increase of 180,084 or 11.7% from 2010 to 2019. Seeing the largest numeric population increase between
2018 and 2019 of 20,779 or 4.3% was Washington’s King County. Looking at U.S. counties that had a population of at least 20,000 in 2019, the Asian population in Forsyth County, Georgia grew the fastest with an increase of 3,660 or 10% between 2018 and 2019. The population also saw the largest percentage growth of 230.2% or 27,977 since between 2010 and 2019. Following in growth were Hispanics whose population
grew 20% from 10,093,626 in 2010, to 60,572,247 in 2019. Black Americans saw a population increase of 11.6% or 5,004,079 in the last decade; Native Hawaiians saw a 21% increase, and American Indians or Alaskan Natives saw a 13.1% increase. Last year, data from the U.S. Census Bureau showed that the number of Filipinos in the U.S. reached 4,089,570 in 2018 — an increase of more than 52,000 from 2017. (Rae Ann Varona/AJPress) n
july 3-9, 2020 • NEW yORK AND NEW jERSEy ASIAN jOuRNAl
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Cops kill 4 military agents... PAGE 7 group’s vehicle, was buried immediately following Islamic tradition. Indammog was commanding officer of the 9th Intelligence Service Unit in Sulu from Tanudan, Kalinga povince; Managuelod was a field station commander from San Pablo City, Laguna; Velasco was a close-in aide of Indammog from Santa Cruz, Manila. Indammog graduated from the Philippine Military Academy in 2006, while Managuelod graduated in 2009. A Philippine National Police report said the incident was a “misencourter,” but Gapay rejected the police account, saying it was an unprovoked carnage. “It is murder,” Gapay told reporters at Villamor. “There’s no misencounter because our troops never fired a shot. These are PNP personnel, if there was a misencounter do you think none of the policemen would be injured? So there was no misencounter here. It was a rubout.” He said the PNP Sulu provincial director and the Jolo municipal station chief must be held accountable for com-
mand responsibility. The Army commander maintained that the initial PNP spot report was “fabricated, full of inconsistencies–like a movie and very misleading.” Army spokesperson Col. Ramon Zagala told the Inquirer in a text message that the four soldiers were unarmed and had identified themselves as military men. “For us, they were killed,” he said, adding that the police should have simply described the event as a “shooting incident.” “It’s a sad day for the Army,” Zagala said. Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, had asked the National Bureau of Investigation to investigate the shooting to ensure impartiality. The fifth intelligence officer who was on a motorcycle and one of the eyewitnesses was being interviewed by NBI investigators. PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac told CNN Philippines the nine officers involved had been disarmed
Reach back to your roots...
and placed under restrictive custody at the Sulu provincial police office.“No amount of explanation can ease the pain of the sorrow and grief of the families of the slain soldiers and we are committed to find out the truth and serve justice to the families of the slain officers and soldiers,” he said. The PNP considers the incident a misencounter since the policemen “might not have been able to identify properly the soldiers as colleagues, part of the security forces.” “This is a very big lesson for us and we will take this very seriously so this won’t happen again,” he said. Police account An investigation report prepared by Police Staff Sgt. Abdel Haffeez Amin, said that upon reaching the police station, Indammog’s team “fled with the SUV” and the police gave chase. The report said the soldiers disembarked from the vehicle “with their firearms… pointed towards the PNP personnel.” “However, before they could pull the trigger, the PNP personnel were able PAGE 10
PAGE 5 University of Maryland at College Park before members of the Filipino Cultural Association, a student organization) When our family came to the United States, our children had many of the wonderful traits that a traditional Filipino upbringing develops. Respect for elders. A closeness with members of the family, including those several layers removed. Pride in the country of their birth. Oh, yes, they also had many of the unhealthy values that the same Filipino upbringing infects you with. They thought that doing manual labor was demeaning. That waiting at tables, washing dishes and doing the laundry was only for the lowly. That it was normal to be served hand and foot by maids. That they were more equal than others and could jump the line or get ahead of the pack by pulling strings. One of the best things that happened to our children in America, aside from the education that they received, was a reorientation of values:
learning the dignity of honest labor and the virtue of self-sufficiency, and taking pride in getting ahead based on one’s talents and skills, rather than on padrinos and connections. Yes, all of our children waited at tables while going through college. And they are proud of it. For many years, we lived on the eastern shore of Maryland, in the small town of Cambridge, a crab-oystercorn-and-soya community. There were only two Filipino families in that town: mine and that of my elder sister. The children went through high school with American schoolmates and neighbors. Their friends would spend weekends at the house and were exposed to our Pinoy ways, as we were exposed to theirs. The result was that their American friends learned to eat rice and native Filipino dishes and they also learned to eat with fork and spoon. To this day, many of these young Marylanders still visit us in San Francisco and are treated like members of the family - for such is the Fili-
pino way. Our children, on the other hand, all learned to work with their hands, to do things for themselves, to stand proud and confident alongside their American friends, to compete with them on equal terms in academics and sports, and to be every bit the teenage Americans that their new environment had made of them. Over time, our four children ceased being the young Filipinos that we brought over many years ago. They changed. Today, they are a shadow of what they were back in the Philippines. What have they become? Suffice it to say that how they define themselves is not as important as the upright, respectful, self-confident, affectionate individuals that my wife and I know them to be. We certainly do not regret that they are different from their mother and myself and different, too, from their childhood friends back in the Philippines. This is what the development of the species is all about. On the other hand, we are PAGE 10
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july 3-9, 2020 • NEW yORK AND NEW jERSEy ASIAN jOuRNAl
After shutting down ABS-CBN on May 5... PAGE 5 CBN received an alias cease and desist order from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) directing ABS-CBN to cease and desist from operating digital TV transmission in Metro Manila using channel 43. While channel 43 is not mentioned in NTC’s cease and desist order (CDO) of May 5, 2020, and it is ABS-CBN’s informed understanding that channel 43 is not included in the CDO, digital TV transmission in Metro Manila using channel 43 will cease tonight (June 30), consistent with the intent of the alias CDO. This means that viewers with TV Plus set-top boxes in Metro Manila will be unable to watch Teleradyo, Jeepney TV, Yey!, Asianovela Channel, CineMo, and KBO. ABS-CBN has a pending petition with the Supreme Court questioning the NTC’s CDO and hopes that such petition will be resolved soon in its favor so that it can resume broadcasting on both analog and digital platforms in the service of the Filipino. Meanwhile, Sky Cable Corp released this statement on NTC’s cease and desist order to stop its direct broadcast satellite service called Sky Direct. As ABS-CBN news reported, SkyCable Corp was asked “to show cause why frequencies assigned to it shall not be recalled for lack of necessary congressional franchise to operate”: “SKYdirect’s 1.5 million subscribers nationwide, including those in remote areas that do not receive television signals, will be deprived of access to the channels we carry that bring them news, information, education, and entertainment starting tonight June 30, 2020, as Sky Cable Corporation complies with the cease and desist order (CDO) issued by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) stopping the company from operating its direct broadcast satellite service immediately. In the spirit of fairness, we continue to appeal to the NTC to extend the same privilege given in the past to other companies whose franchises have expired but are currently pending in Congress to continue its operations until a resolution is passed. We assure our subscribers that we will exhaust all legal remedies to resume our services. We commit to attend to the concerns of our valued subscribers and partners arising from this decision. We will re-
fund all unconsumed prepaid loads and advance postpaid payments. We appeal to our SKYdirect subscribers and partners for understanding and patience as we undergo this process.” After all the allegations and false accusations thrown at ABS-CBN and its management which had already been addressed under oath and cleared by government officials and institutions – Department of Justice, Department of Labor, Securities and Exchange Commission, Bureau of Internal Revenue; and after the shutting down of the network on May 5 because of Congress’ failure to conduct hearings on its renewal despite allowing other broadcast entities to continue operations while franchise hearings were ongoing and pending, the Duterte Administration is now focusing on yet another angle: Cable TV operators’ opposition to ABS-CBN’s franchise application, insisting on a supposed “one franchise, one channel” rule.” What is mind-boggling is that during the hearing on Monday, June 29 the NTC admitted that ABS-CBN Corp. did NOT violate the terms of its old franchise when it introduced multiple programs through its TV Plus digital boxes. NTC Commissioner Gamaliel Cordoba told a joint congressional hearing on ABS-CBN’s application for a new operating franchise that digital television technology allows broadcast franchise holders to provide up to 6 programs using a single 6 MHz frequency. “Insofar as 6 programs in 1 channel is concerned, okay po yun (they’re okay),” he said. When asked by Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Alfredo Garbin to clarify if ABS-CBN’s previous 25-year franchise contained any provision that prohibited the operation of multiple programs, Cordoba said digital TV was not yet available when the franchise was granted in 1995 through Republic Act No. 7966. “Baka hindi po yun na-forsee ng RA 7966,” he said as reported by ABS-CBN News. Dissecting the previous franchise of ABS-CBN, Laguna Representative Sol Aragones noted that it mentioned “frequency” and not “channel.” Cordoba concurred and explained in the hearing how advances in digital TV technology allowed the more efficient use of an existing frequency.
As ABS-CBN News reported, “Congressmen blocking the network’s application for a new franchise have accused the network of illegally introducing pay-per-view features in its TV Plus units.” Despite affirming ABS-CBN did not violate any laws nor any provision in the previous franchise, Cordoba said the NTC had asked the network not to offer PPV until it released guidelines for the conditional access system. But Rep. Garbin was quick to ask: “But if there’s no regulation, would you consider that there’s a violation of any law? An activity that has not been regulated, would you consider that there’s a violation even if it’s not regulated?” To this Cordoba replied that ABS-CBN should have waited for the implementing rules from NTC. If found to have indeed committed a violation, ABS-CBN can be fined P200 for every unauthorized offer of PPV, under the Public Service Act, he said, as reported by ABS-CBN News. But echoing Rep. Garbin’s point, what law was violated? Why punish ABS-CBN and the Filipino people dependent on the network for news, information and entertainment especially during the pandemic? Is it the network’s fault that the government has lagged behind and got sucked in analog while ABS-CBN has ushered the use of digital technology in the country? Isn’t it ironic that the Philippine government once praised ABS-CBN for keeping pace with “rapidly evolving technologies” in a document that outlined the country’s shift to digital TV technology”? A 2014 National Telecommunications Commission circular also “encouraged” broadcasters to introduce new programs, including those in HD format, “in addition to the analog legacy program”. Digital Vs Analog This was how ABS-CBN News reported on such transition from analog to digital: The Framework of the DTTB Migration Plan, which seeks to complete the transition from analog to digital transmission by 2023, described ABS-CBN as “the largest multimedia network in the country,” citing its “humble beginnings” and “undeniable successes” over 60 years. DTTB refers to digital terrestrial television broadcasting, which provides viewers with “enhanced TV picture and sound quality” while allowing broadcasters to offer
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Reach back to your roots...
PAGE 8 glad that in a multiethnic and multicultural society such as this, they recognize that they are fortunate to have Filipino roots to reach back to and American dreams to reach up for. I would like to believe that you who are members of the Filipino Cultural Association have metamorphosed in a similar way. I advise you not to feel any guilt for not being as Pinoy as your old folks nor feel any inferiority for not being as “Kano” as your Anglo friends. I encourage you to enrich your lives with the finest portions of the American pie. In science and technology, in culture and the arts, in business and trade, and in its relations with the rest of the world there is much to
be admired and learned in America. Those of you who are Americans should stand proudly as citizens of this great country. At the same time, I suggest that you immerse yourselves in Philippine history, culture and traditions so that you can also speak proudly of your antecedents. In this regard, take pride and participate in the celebration in 1998 of the first centennial of the declaration of Philippine independence – a courageous act undertaken in the face of threats from colonial powers, Spain and the United States. Take pride, too, in the fact that natives of Las Islas Filipinas were crossing the Pacific Ocean to the New World over half a century before the Mayflower traversed the
Atlantic, and that Filipinos, especially those in California, played a role in the making of these United States. There is one last thing that I would like to suggest to you. In the same manner that, through the Filipino Cultural Association, you are nurturing in America the best part of your Filipino-ness, I urge you to visit the land of your parents and to introduce back home the best of your American-ness. And never try to be what you are not, nor bewail what you cannot be. Don’t waste your time pondering whether you are American enough or Filipino enough. To paraphrase that advertising slogan for the US Army – simply be the best you can be. (gregmacabenta@hotmail. com)
No signs of life in search... PAGE 7 received the next day. The PCG targets to complete the investigation in five days. Ursabia considered the incident a simple collision similar to a road crash. He said Vienna Wood would not be allowed to leave the country pending investigation. The crewmembers could not be considered arrested, he said. Don’t give up Relatives of the missing
Filipinos appealed to authorities to continue the search and rescue operations. The families flocked to the office of the Irma Fishing and Trading Inc., operator of Liberty 5, in Malabon to talk to journalists. Antonio Magalona, 66, whose grandson Adrian Amogod was among those missing, appealed to authorities to secure the Vienna Wood. Magalona urged the government not to allow its ties with China hamper the investigation.
Irma Fishing general manager Fermin Soto urged authorities to continue the search and rescue operations. He assured the victims’ relatives that the company would not fail them. Company lawyer Arnold Naval said the firm has filed a marine protest on behalf of the boat captain before the PCG. Criminal charges and claims for civil damages may also be filed against the crewmembers of the Vienna Wood, Naval added. n
Cops kill 4 military agents... PAGE 8 to shoot them in defense, thus an exchange of gunfire ensued which resulted to the death of the four suspects,” the report added. Vinluan said the CCTV footage belied the “police version” of a chase. He added that the soldiers were not holding any firearms as they were hidden under the seats of the SUV to avoid
“unnecessary attention,” especially in Sulu. “The Army grieves and condoles with the families of our fallen men,” Gapay said, vowing that “there will be no let up in our quest for truth and justice.” Despite his anger, Gapay said the killings “should not create animosity or friction” between soldiers and police. “These things should bind
us stronger, strengthen our working relationship with the PNP. We are all professional organizations here. So we should take all of these professionally,” he said.“It hurts us, seeing our men dead. Of course it’s part and parcel of the job but if they die unnecessarily that hurts more,” he said. He ordered all Army camps to fly the flag at half-staff. n
“broader” programs and services. In 2013, the Philippine government picked the Japanese standard for such digital technology, owing to its lower cost and an emergency warning system. “In the face of changing governments, despite natural disasters, and amid rapidly evolving technologies, ABSCBN remains steadfast in its commitment to serve the Filipino,” the October 2017
document said. “The organization is continuously evolving to provide better service through radio, free TV, digital terrestrial TV, cable TV, film, movie, music, publishing, online, events, licensed products, cash remittance, and various advocacies.” What is the true intention of the Duterte administration in shutting down the digital transmission of ABS-CBN programs, given how limited
its audience reach is at the moment? Whose interest is the NTC really serving? *** Gel Santos Relos has been in news, talk, public service and educational broadcasting since 1989 with ABS-CBN and is now serving the Filipino audience using different platforms, including digital broadcasting, and print, and is working on a new public service program for the community. You may contact her through email at gelrelos@icloud.com, or send her a message via Facebook at Facebook. com/Gel.Santos.Relos.
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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • JULY 3-9, 2020
COMMUNITY Journal
Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ DEAR Atty. Gurfinkel: My sister petitioned me in 2001 in the F-4 category, (brother/sister of a U.S. citizen) when my child was still a baby. Recently, the priority date became current. We paid all the fees and submitted all the forms on behalf of my family, including my child, who is now over 21. At the interview, the consul approved my husband’s and my visas, but said my child cannot be included because he “aged out.” He was only a baby when the petition was filed, so how could he have aged out? Is there hope under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA)? Very truly yours, CD Dear CD: A child’s age and eligibility for immigration benefits under CSPA are calculated and determined based on the date the priority date finally becomes current, not their age on the date the petition was filed. This includes all family and employment-based petitions (except for “immediate relative” petitions, which are petitions of U.S. citizens for their minor children, parents or spouse on which case the date of filing controls). The Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) can sometimes
But my child was a baby when the petition was filed! provide relief for children who aged out. But it is very complex and can be confusing in terms of determining eligibility. • For immediate relatives, eligibility is determined as of the date the petition was filed. If the petition was filed before the child’s 21st birthday, the child could benefit from the CSPA, provided they don’t get married. • For other petitions, the child’s CSPA eligibility is determined based on when the priority date becomes current (or visa becomes available), even if they were under 21 when the petition was filed. In your case, your sister petitioned you. Therefore, the child’s age on the date the petition was filed is not determinative for CSPA eligibility. Instead, the child’s age when the priority date finally became current controls, and you must perform a mathematical computation, to determine if their CSPA age is still under 21. If a person has questions or issues about their child’s CSPA eligibility, or if they have been denied a visa by the Embassy because the child aged out, they may want to consult with an attorney, who can evaluate their case and determine if the child is
truly CSPA eligible. The attorney could either assist in processing the child’s case or seek reconsideration from the Embassy of the visa refusal. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bars of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different and results may depend on the facts of the particular case. The information and opinions contained herein (including testimonials, “Success Stories”, endorsements and re-enactments) are of a general nature, and are not intended to apply to any particular case, and do not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw, Twitter @GurfinkelLaw and YouTube: US Immigration TV Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: 1-866-487-3465 (866) – GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES ∙ SAN FRANCISCO ∙ NEW YORK ∙ PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)
Kris is finally ending her showbiz hiatus By Iza IglesIas ManilaTimes.net
ON Wednesday, July 1, the erstwhile “Queen of All Media” posted clips of her contract signing with management and production group Cornerstone Entertainment looking both healthy and happy. Donning a new hairstyle, she sat in the middle of a long table with Cornerstone Entertainment Inc. President Erickson Raymundo and PAGE 12
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Erstwhile dubbed “Queen of All Media,” the actress-host has been on a two-year hiatus from showbiz. Photo from Instagram/@krisaquino
LEADING U.S. IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL EXPEDITES CASE TO ENSURE “CHILD” LANDS ON U.S. SOIL BEFORE HIS 21ST BIRTHDAY. One of Atty. Gurfinkel’s favorite cases is from 23 years ago, but the lessons are timeless and valuable to the present, where the family’s efforts to save money resulted in extra delays and a child who was about to age out in a matter of days. This was before the Child Status Protection Act, and back then, the child must arrive in the U.S. before midnight of his 21st birthday or the case would be lost. Time was running out for Steve (2nd from left) when the family realized that “Miracle Worker” Atty. Gurfinkel (right) was their only hope. As soon as the family agreed to retain the Law Offices of Michael J. Gurfinkel, the latter worked non-stop to ensure that Steve would land on U.S. soil before his 21st birthday. Watch the events unfold on an encore episode of CITIZEN PINOY on Sunday, July 5 at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC. (Advertising Supplement)
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july 3-9, 2020 • NEW yORK AND NEW jERSEy ASIAN jOuRNAl
Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS COVID-19, like many diseases known to man, infectious or not, afflict each one of us according to our individual discipline and behavior. With almost 10.5 million COVID-19 cases and more than half a million deaths worldwide – greater than 2.6 million in the USA with around 230,000 deaths, and about 36,500 cases in the Philippines and almost 13,000 deaths – the COVID19 pandemic (officially declared by the World Health Organization on January 30, 2020) still rages on. How long it will last depends on “We, The People.” Several countries like Bolivia, Argentina, Columbia, Iraq, the Philippines and Panama were all badly hit and lockdown was imposed. After re-opening, Argentina, for one, and some States in the U.S., have more than quadrupled its cases. In the Philippines, the highest one-day trajectory was close to 1100 cases around June 21st. Saudi Arabia and Iran are having a “second wave” after relaxing lockdown measures. The same is true in South Korea, Lebanon and Singapore. In the U.S., the re-opening has been marred by flare-ups: Florida having 8,530 new cases in one day; Alabama, 1,734; North Carolina, 1,287; Arizona, 625; Virginia, 453; all these surges in one day with a total new death of 120 on June 28. The States with the highest death rates are New York, 31,484; New Jersey, 15,118; Massachusetts, 8,060; and Illinois, 7,089. The riots, demonstrations and protests for civil rights, where the crowd did not wear masks or practice social distancing, contributed a lot to the V-curve of the pandemic and sharp rise in new cases. Most of these were young people. Disregarding health guidelines, carelessness, and arrogance take their toll. COVID-19 could also be deadly for young people. The first death from COVID-19 outside China was a 44-year-old male on February 2, 2020. More than 4,000 deaths in New York alone were people under the age of 65, 600 below 45, and 9 below 17. So, COVID-
Discipline and COVID-19 19 also kills young people. But as great, if not a greater tragedy, is when a careless, indifference, arrogant young person gets infected and transmits it to seniors who are more vulnerable and have the highest risk of dying from COVID-19, and who are scared and being very careful, following the guidelines religiously, only to be victimized by a virus carrier anyway. A group of 16 friends in Florida all tested positive for COVID-19 after a night’s drinking at a bar. There are countless similar incidents around the world, where crowds did not follow the guidelines. There is no question that people’s discipline and behavior could spell the difference between health and illness, and between life and death. The success of ending this pandemic sooner, opening the economy earlier, will depend entirely on the wisdom and responsibility of the entire community. Flattening the curve and re-opening businesses are not mutually exclusive. This could be achieved in synchrony, simultaneously, if people are disciplined to follow the COVID-19 guidelines: when outside wear a cap/hat, mask, avoid touching public doorknobs and handrails, do distancing of at least six feet, wash hands or use hand sanitizers. All these inconveniences and discomfort are worthwhile if we are to ward off a potential killer and get back to a better tomorrow sooner. Decoy to destroy SARSCoV2 Scrambling to find tools to eradicate COVID-19 infection, simultaneous independent researches are ongoing around the world. One study “has found that nanosponges, tiny biofriendly plastic coated in lungs and immune cell membranes, act as a decoy for SARS-CoV2, neutralizing the virus. The nanosponges mop up the virus like a sponge.” They reduce the inflammation also, thus treating the body’s reaction to the infection. Once the SARS-CoV2 virus attaches to the nanosponges rather than the lungs’ cells, the virus quickly dies. This new technology effectively distracts and neutralizes various viruses (Influenza, Ebola, Marburg and Lassa), including the COVID-19 vi-
rus in the lab, reports a paper in the journal Nano Letters. The medication could be in the form of nasal spray also. The promising data are from investigators at Boson University’s National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories and the University of California, San Diego. Half a billion cases less A review published in Nature of the COVID-19 pandemic says the emergency measures promulgated by five countries, including the U.S., in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have prevented more than half a billion additional cases, and proportionately, saved about 1,250 lives. Professor Solomon Hsiang, the lead researcher, stated “the last several months have been extraordinarily difficult, but through our individual sacrifices, people everywhere have each contributed to one of humanity’s greatest collective achievements. I don’t think any human endeavor has ever saved so many lives in such a short period of time. There have been huge personal costs to staying home and canceling events, but the data show that each day made a profound difference. By using science and cooperating, we changed the course of history.” COVID-19 “triggers” diabetes? A panel of 17 international diabetes experts, in a study published in The New England of Medicine journal, suggested that COVID-19 could actually trigger among some people the development of T2 diabetes among COVID-19 patients who were not diabetic to begin with. Whether the diabetes would resolve after the COVID-19 infection ends is not known. A global registry has been established to investigate the possible link and inform future therapy. Diabetes occurs when the body is unable to regulate blood sugar level, either due to damage to the beta cells in the pancreas which produces insulin (T1 diabetes) or from the body cells becoming insensitive (resistant) to insulin (T2 diabetes, the most common type). While having diabetes is a risk to severe COVID-19 infection, new evidence shows nondiabetics could develop PAGE 13
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Allan K’s Zirkoh, Klownz bow down after near-20-year run due to coronavirus woes By Ratziel
San Juan Philstar.com
SISTER comedy bars Zirkoh and Klownz, both enduring cultural landmarks that have shaped Quezon City’s night scene, are finally closing shop as the latest economic victims of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic that has shut down countless businesses worldwide. Actor and mainstay performer Phillip Lazaro broke the tragic news Tuesday, June 30, wishing the best for the Klownz and Zirkoh family for years of their unique service to Filipino audiences. “Sa aking mga kasama at kapatid sa Klownz at Zirkoh, let us all say a little prayer for one another and hug each other in our hearts. Sa aming mga napatawa at napasaya sa mga lumipas na taon, the pleasure was definitely ours. Sa aming mga boss, Sir Lito at A.K., thanks for the opportunity. Marami
TV host and comedian Allan K
pong salamat sa inyong lahat at sa uulitin. B O W,” Lazaro said. Television host and the bars’ owner Allan K decided to declare bankruptcy
Photo from Instagram/@allan_klownz
due to the long-term uncertainty brought by the coronavirus crisis, effectively seeing the end of Klownz’ and Zirkoh’s near PAGE 15
Kris is finally ending... PAGE 11 Vice President Jeffrey Vadillo to observe physical distancing. Citing her contract’s confidentiality agreement, the 49-year-old actress-host was unable to give details on what projects the group has lined up for her. Aquino wrote, “I was reminded by attorney @gideon.pena that the contract I signed had 3 paragraphs regarding confidentiality. So for now it’s just this video.” Clearly excited about her comeback, she added, “I am allowed to thank my @cornerstone family for their patience and perseverance; thank you to new partners for their vote of confidence.” Aquino also expressed gratitude to everyone who congratulated her in the comments section on her new career milestone. “Thank you to my family and all of you, my loyal followers for helping me pray for this moment to finally
arrive,” she ended. It was only last week when veteran talent manager and entertainment columnist Lolit Solis said on Instagram she heard that Aquino is set to do a talk show with boxing champion and Senator Manny Pacquiao. However, Aquino was quick to deny this, writing in the comments, “Sorry Nay, Bernard [Cloma, Pacquiao’s friend] is confusing you. A couple of years ago, kami ni mareng @jinkeepacquiao ang nagkausap for a possible project together. It never materialized.” She continued, “There’s nothing in the horizon for me and Senator Manny. Willie Revillame generously offered me to use one of the other studios he set up in Wil Tower for me to do Facebook and YouTube daily. There’s more but I signed a non-disclosure agreement and masunurin na your Tetay now.” It has been two years since Aquino took a break
from show business due to health reasons. She, however, landed a cameo in Hollywood film “Crazy Rich Asians” in August 2018 as Princess Intan. That same year, she revealed she had been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease called Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria. Even on hiatus, however, the controversial celebrity was always able to draw public attention whether from posts about her illness or her love-hate relationship with her brother, former president Noynoy Aquino. She also figured in a public scandal with erstwhile business manager Nicko Falcis. Aquino accused and later sued Falcis for qualified theft in allegedly using company funds for personal expenses. Falcis meanwhile released his telephone conversation with Aquino where she allegedly threatened his life. The case has been settled since.
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Stars turn emotional due to anxiety over ABS-CBN franchise renewal By Jan
Milo Severo Philstar.com
KAPAMILYA celebrities tried to hold back tears and admitted to breaking down due to ABS-CBN shutdown as well as for missing their old lives that were put into hold due to novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In a virtual press conference of her show “Paano Kita Mapapasalamatan,” Judy Ann Santos said she misses the real taping setup, most expecially her friends, cast and crew. “Alam mo siguro ‘yung mga kaibigan namin, ‘yung makapagpasalamat talaga sa kanila. Alam mo ‘yung realization na pag natapos talaga lahat ng ito at pwede ko nang yakapin ang mga mahal ko sa buhay, every single time na makikita ko sila, yayakapin ko at magpapasalamat ako ng bonggang bongga kasi hindi mo na talaga alam ang mangyayari sa kinabukasan,” she said while wiping tears.
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During recent separate media teleconferences, ‘Love Thy Woman’ stars Yam Concepcion (left), Christopher de Leon (bottom right) and ‘Paano Kita Pasasalamatan’ host Judy Ann Santos try to hold back tears as they recall their lockdown life and ABS-CBN’s shutdown. Photos screengrabbed from Youtube/ABS-CBN
“I miss my friends, I miss my team, I miss everyone. Namimiss kong makipag-interact sa actual set. Namimiss kong tumawa, namimiss kong magpa-Starbucks para sa lahat. ‘Yung ‘pag gusto mong maging happy ang ibang tao, magpapabili ako ng pagkain, gusto kong binubusog ang team ko,” she added.
In a separate media teleconference with Philstar. com and other press, “Love Thy Woman” actresses also became emotional. “I feel grateful because I’m alive, my family’s together, I breathe fresh air. I feel grateful na nakakain kami, walang nagkakasakit sa’min. I thank the Lord,” Ruffa Gutierrez said.
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“First time na nagbreak down ako nu’ng nag-shutdown ang ABS - bilib na bilib ako sa lahat ng mga tagaABS,” she added. “Kahit anong tests lahat malalampasan,” Zsa Zsa Padilla positively said. Sunshine Cruz, on the other hand, said that she realized that she’s blessed because her loved ones are all safe despite the pandemic. “Blessed ako kasi lahat ng mahal sa buhay ko, very healthy. At tama, nakakain kami sa oras ng mga anak ko... Ngayon ko na-realize ang mga mahahaling sapatos, bag, ‘di mahalaga. Ngayon ko naramadaman na mahal ako ng pamilya ko. Ang dami lang talagang ipagpasamalamat. Dapat lang maging thankful ka, small or big blessings man ang dumating.” Yam Concepcion also broke into tears, saying: “Honestly, I’m a little lost.” “‘Di ba sa movies lang ito nangyayari? But thankful ako na buhay ako, na healthy ang family ko at may communication pa rin. Walang trabaho ng three months but very appreciative ang pamilya satin,” a teary-eyed Eula Valdez said.
Discipline and...
PAGE 12 diabetes for the first time as a result of COVID-19. The riddle of this two-way relationship is being investigated worldwide. Experts think that it would take a couple of years to know for certain if the overall rates of diabetes in various populations have increased as a result of the pandemic. UVC lights deactivates SARS-CoV2 Ultraviolet C, which was discovered in 1801 but came into practical use in 1903 as a germicidal agent, has been shown to destroy viruses in general, including SARS, MERS, and SARS-CoV2, which cause COVID-19, by damaging their protective lipid (fat) capsules surrounding the virus molecule and destroying their DNA. UV-C light is harmful to the eyes and the skin. UV-C lights have been used to sterilize operating rooms, ICUs, ER, etc. It is also used to sterilize meats, vegetables, etc. in manufacturing plants. The available lamps in the market are used safely with a remote control device to
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allow people and pets to leave the room to be sterilized before it is turned on. Professor David J. Brenner of Columbia University has developed a Far UV-C (200-122 nm) which is safe to use around people, pets, and plants. This will be in the form of a ceiling lamp, or a unit much like our present day portable mosquito eletric zapper, which could be used in various public establishments, airports, restaurants, grocery stores, theaters, and homes, to provide constant real-time deactivation of viruses and killing of bacteria, and to some extent, molds. Hopefully, it will be available soon to help us fight the SARS-CoV2 virus. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, a Health Advocate, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. Websites: philipSchua.com and FUN8888. com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail. com.
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JULY 3-9, 2020 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
• (212) N E W http://www.asianjournal.com YO R K / N E W J E R S EY 655-5426 J U LY 3, 2 0 2 0
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FILIPINO FOOD MOVEMENT’S ‘SAVOR FILIPINO’ SUMMIT
How to survive a post-COVID-19 market: ’Dial it up’ and ‘Buy Filipino products’
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by
MoMar G. viSaYa / AJPress
ITH its goal to create a framework in order to innovate the business of Filipino cuisine in the time of the pandemic, the Filipino Food Movement held a virtual summit called ‘Savor Filipino’ on Monday, June 29.
The meeting was attended by almost a hundred people across the globe, coming from different fields and industries but all share the same love and commitment to Filipino food. “Filipino cuisine is no longer the next big thing. It is a part of the American culinary landscape,” said Department of Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat who opened the summit. Puyat added that the best way to promote a country is through its food and what better way to understand Filipino culture but also through its food. The tourism secretary mentioned that they brought in three Filipino American chefs to the Philippines late last year so they could visit culinary destinations in order to learn about heirloom delicacies and heritage ingredients which they could use in their respective restaurants when they return to the United States. Sonia Delen, Filipino Food Movement president talked briefly about how they adjusted with the times and came up with Kulinarya Live, quarantine cooking series streamed online featuring Filipino chefs from the diaspora. The project came about when they realized that because of the quarantine, people have reignited their interest in baking and cooking. As a nonprofit organiza-
The virtual summit was attended by about a hundred people, who listed to discussions about pivoting Filipino food businesses as a response to COVID-19 as well as harnessing technology for their respective businesses.
tion, FFM has been at the forefront in promoting Filipino cuisine and creating sustainable impact on the Filipino culinary industry whether it is through dinners, outreach or gala events. ‘Dial it up’ Ligaya Mishan, the award-winning New York
Times food writer and critic and writer, delivered the keynote speech along with restaurateur and cookbook author Nicole Ponseca Mishan shared a little bit of her own personal history. Her mom, originally from Cotabato City in the Philippines, married her dad who was from England. They
met in Tokyo and ended up living in Hawaii. Mishan said that as a writer, how she writes about food matters. “I don’t use the words ethnic or cheap. I’m uneasy with ‘authentic’, too,” she said, citing the fact that recipes are not static and they tend to change based on the availability of ingredients, among other reasons. As a writer for NYT, Mishan has reviewed and featured dozens of restaurants, among them Filipino rests in Manhattan and Queens. She also wrote a long feature on Doreen Fernandez, the doyenne of Filipino food writing. She echoed Puyat’s thoughts on the role of Filipino food in the American culinary landscape and said that “America has changed, particularly the way we eat now” and that Filipino cuisine is a part of the “brilliant pastiche of colors from around the world” that makes American dining unique. Nicole Ponseca, foundered and owner of Jeepney and Maharlika talked about her own journey, including how she decided to close Maharlika in December after almost ten years of operations. “I don’t really know what the future holds, restaurants like us are earning a PAGE 15
PJ Quesada, founder and CEO of Filipino Food Movement
Sonia Delen, president of Filipino Food Movement
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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • JULY 3-9, 2020
PH talents continue to win int’l awards By
GeorGe Vail Kabristante ManilaTimes.net
THERE’S no stopping the Philippine movie industry in claiming awards bestowed on them from all parts of the globe amid the volatile COVID-19 pandemic. The most recent recipient of an international award is actor Richard Quan who is now considered a seasoned actor since first appearing in movies in the 1980s. He was handed an Award of Merit for Best Actor for “Spiderman’s Man “ by Accolade Global Film Competition 2020, which also won Best Feature Film and Best Director for director Ruben Soriquez, a multi-award winning Italian Filpino actor-director. The Accolade Global award was established in 2003 and is currently on its 17th year. It is not a traditional film festival, but rather a unique hybrid awards competition with seasonal deadlines. MovieMaker Magazine included the Accolade Global among the Top 25 Festivals worth the entry fee and regards it as a top-tier prestigious global film competition. Some of its previous winners have won the Oscars, Emmys and Tellys. To recall, Richard got his first acting award as Best New Male Actor for Movies from the Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) for the Dawn Zulueta-Richard Go-
Richard Quan
GMA photo
mez starrer “Saan Ka Man Naroroon” under director Carlitos Siguion-Reyna. He played the other man to Dawn’s character. Richard says he had to go through a crash acting workshop under veteran-deceased actor Ray Ventura before he auditioned for the movie and luckily got the role. This was through the facilitation of his discoverer-manager, dearly departed Ed Pacheco, then Lifestyle Section editor of broadsheet Manila Chronicle. The PMPC award paved more acting trophies for Richard, namely two Best Supporting Actor Awards for director Hubert Tubi’s “1957” from To Farm Festival, and Subic International Film Festival, respectively; and another Best Supporting Actor for JM Nebres’ “Ampunan”from
the Gawad Sining Film Festival. He bagged two more Best Actor Awards, namely for director Nestor Malgapo, Jr.’s “Kapayapaan sa Gitna ng Digmaan” from Singkuento International Film Festival and the European-Philippines International Film Festival. Interestingly, Richard is an Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) member. He was predated by the departed iconic and co-religious celebrities, namely singer Rico Puno a teenage heartthrob Joel Alano who would have been in his mid50s by now. Richard along with other INC actors have successfully conquered show business with commendable performances, respectability and durability in the industry. Among them are GMA Network’s shining newbie Ruru Madrid, seasonedactors John Regala, Gladys Reyes, Snooky Serna, and Jaclyn Jose, who was the first Filipino to win the Best Actress Award at the Cannes International Film Festival. Proud of all of them, Richard also mentioned INC’s iconic director of action films William Mayo who is known for his multiple award-winning film “Lapu-Lapu.” Mayo is also the incumbent president of Kapisanan ng mga Direktor Sa Pelikulang Pilipino. Richard Quan is definitely going places along with these fellow INC movie talents. Congratulations!
Wendell becomes certified firefighter By ryan
arcadio Inquirer.net
WENDELL Ramos has become a certified firefighter after completing training with the Ang Bumbero ng Pilipinas (ABP) organization. “It was really an [h]onor to train and be a certified ABP,” he said on his Facebook page last Sunday, June 28, alongside photos from the exercises with the group. “[B]ut to be honest, I need to learn and experience more…,” Ramos added. “It’s truly a humbling experience for me.” “[A]t sa inyo pong lahat na mga bumbero ng [P]ilipinas.. #saludo po ako sa inyong lahat,” the actor expressed. (And to all of the firefight-
Wendell Ramos
ers of the Philippines.. I salute you all.) According to its official Facebook page, ABP is a nongovernment organization “which aims to unite and provide latest information/updates to firefighter groups in the Philippines.” Along with Ramos, other celebrities such as Beauty Gonzalez and Arci Muñoz have also undergone training
Photos from Facebook/Wendell Ramos
with public safety organizations. Gonzalez underwent exercises with the Special Operations Unit (SOU) of the Philippine National Police-Aviation Security Group, while Muñoz has begun training as a reservist with the Philippine Air Force. Ramos currently stars in the TV drama “Prima Donnas” alongside Katrina Halili and Aiko Melendez.
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How to survive a post-COVID-19 market...
PAGE 14 fraction of what we used to make,” she said. “But we are warriors and we are going to figure out how to move on together.” Like her colleagues in New York, Ponseca pivoted and worked on getting donations in order to send food to frontliners in hospitals across the city. While she has been mentioned many times as the one who broke down walls when she and chef Miguel Trinidad opened Maharlika in 2010, Ponseca along with Mishan paid tribute to those who began the fight to bring Filipino cuisine to New York’s mainstream. They mentioned Amy Besa and Romy Dorotan who ran Cendrillon in Soho and King Phojanakong who opened Kuma Inn in the Lower East Side for opening the door and the conversations that followed suit. Ponseca, who also published a bestselling book on Filipino cuisine (and a 2019 James Beard Award finalist) called “I Am Filipino: This is How We Cook”, shared the challenges they had to hurdle in order to keep both restaurants running. Her strategy to use what used to embarrass her as a child and made them work for her. As a teen, Ponseca said she was embarrassed when she would bring friends to her home and they would see her dad using his hands to eat. At Jeepney, she introduced Kamayan dinners, where diners would eat with their bare hands. It was what saved Jeepney then, she quipped. “We turned it around, and for those wondering about now, I say go for the boldness of the flavors. Dial it up instead of dial it down,” she added. As she closed her talk, Ponseca mentioned about
how Filipino food in the United States has evolved and that now, more than ever, the next generation of Filipino American chefs have access to what she referred to as the “4Cs”: capital, creativity, consciousness and community. “Money is running out and if our doors should close, another door will open,” she said. “We have not come this far only to get this far. Buy Filipino products Five concurrent breakout sessions followed and they focused on topics that are key to the current environment. Breakout panelists include successful Filipino chefs, technology trailblazers, and industry experts. The Philippine Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Tourism made their presentations as well to help connect Filipino food producers and manufacturers with end-users across America. Celynne Layug, trade attache of the DTI talked about the journey of products and ingredients from the Philippines. Among the products she mentioned include coconut byproducts which have been used by private labels including Costco and Trader Joe’s and companies like Nestle. Layug also talked about the platforms and specialty stores where Filipino products are now available and the companies which use Filipino ingredients such as ube and pili nuts in their products. “We also have new and innovative products including the line of Mama Sita’s vinegars including cashew vinegar, bean to bar artisan chocolates, volcanic pili nuts from Bicol and the “dinosaur egg,” among others,” she added. Dinosaur egg or asin tibuok is considered by
enthusiasts as the rarest among Philippine sea salts from Bohol which is now imported to the United States. It is currently sold at $149.99 per “egg”. “It is an age old craft but it is a dying process so we are hoping that the remaining family in Bohol which makes it is able to preserve this tradition,” Layug shared. Called dinosaur egg because of its shape, this salt is grated over a dish and takes up to four months to make. Getting these products to the United States is already a feat, according o Layug, but surviving the competition is another battle that needs to be hurdled. She suggested patronizing Filipino products when we see them in our local groceries or supermarkets. “Let us harness the power of the Filipino diaspora,” she said, adding that there is a strong need to advertise the availability of these products. PJ Quesada, one of the founders of FFM, said he wanted to leave the participants with three points as he closed the summit’s proceedings. “Rethink the stories you tell because your stories matter now more than ever; we have to be fluid and adaptable because there’s so much uncertainty right now and we have to survive this; and finally, experiment with new things, don’t be scared,” he said. The online summit brought together some of the most prominent members of the Filipino food business community in the United States to discuss the economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic and develop actionable solutions that will keep the Filipino food industry competitive in a post-COVID marketplace.
Allan K’s Zirkoh, Klownz bow down...
PAGE 12 two-decade run. In an outpouring of support, fans mourned both the “end of an era” as well as the loss of livelihood of many of the sister establishments’ employees, including their prized comedians, production assistants, make-up artists, stylists, waiters and other staff. Lazaro’s fellow resident
stand-up comics Boobsie and Gladys Guevarra likewise offered their condolences to their home. “Nakakalungkot mang isipin, pero ganon talaga ang buhay... hindi akalain nang dahil sa virus na kinatakutan at pumatay ng libu-libong tao. Maraming pinalungkot, ginutom, sinira at winasak na pangarap! Pero ang lahat ng ito ay PAGSUBOK lamang!
Kung gaano tayo katatag,” Boobsie reassured her followers. Meanwhile, Gladys said that Klownz and Zirkoh bared witness to many events in her life and expressed gratitude to Allan K for believing in her. A longtime cashier and bartender also offered his respects to Klownz and Zirkoh for serving as his home for over a decade.
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