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JULY 3 - JULY 9, 2026 Volume 20 - No.27 • 16 Pages 611 North Brand Blvd., Suite 1300, Glendale, CA 91203 • Tel: (818) 9379981 • (818) 937-9982 • (213) 250-9797 • info@asianjournalinc.com
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Supreme Court ends 2025–2026 term with DATELINE USA rulings that reset major legal boundaries FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
Student loan overhaul begins as SAVE borrowers face new deadline
About 7.5 million borrowers will receive notices giving them 90 days to select another repayment plan.
June 23 action involves more than $6.5 billion in allegedly false claims and includes a $906 million wound-care case tied by prosecutors to a resort project in Cagayan by AJPress WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court closed its 2025–2026 term with major rulings that clarified the limits of presidential power,
reaffirmed birthright citizenship, altered campaign-finance rules and upheld state restrictions on transgender participation in school sports. The decisions marked another consequen-
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Directive targets suspected visa and financial crimes but does not alter citizenship rights recognized by the Supreme Court by AJPress
EDSA RALLY. Thousands of Iglesia Ni Cristo members held a rally at the People Power Monument along EDSA, causing monstrous traffic jams, especially on the northbound side of EDSA and White Plains, as the roads were blocked by the protesters on Tuesday morning (June 30, 2026). President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday (July 1) expressed confidence that the INC rally would remain peaceful. Photo courtesy INC News and Updates/Facebook
Former public works chief Bonoan may INC rallies thrust Marcoleta case turn state witness in flood-control cases into national spotlight The Ombudsman has asked the Sandiganbayan to remove Manuel Bonoan as an accused so he can testify for prosecutors, anti-graft court has not yet approved the request. by AJPress MANILA — The Sandiganbayan has postponed proceedings in criminal cases against former Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan while it considers requests from state prosecutors to remove him as an accused and use his testimony in cases involving alleged irregularities in flood-control projects. As of July 1, Bonoan had not for-
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Justice Department prioritizes alleged birth-tourism fraud after citizenship ruling
by AJPress WASHINGTON — Millions of Americans with federal student loans are entering a repayment system that changes monthly-payment choices and limits how much graduate students and parents may borrow. Key provisions of a 2025 federal law took effect July 1, including two new repayment plans and tighter loan caps. Separately, the SAVE plan ended March 10 after a federal court approved a settlement requiring the Education Department to dismantle it. The Education Department says loan servicers will send notices to about 7.5 million SAVE borrowers. The deadline is not the same for everyone: Each borrower will have 90 days from the date specified by the servicer to choose another plan. Those who do not act will be placed automatically in the Standard Plan or
tial term for a Court whose conservative majority continues to shape American law on some of the country’s most contested questions. But the rulings did not move in only one
mally become a state witness. He remains charged unless the anti-graft court approves the prosecution’s motions. The Office of the Ombudsman filed motions signed June 29 asking the Sandiganbayan’s Second and Fifth divisions to amend the criminal informations by excluding Bonoan. Both divisions directed the parties to submit comments before ruling on the requests.
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Two days of mass demonstrations, permit disputes and political appearances transformed an Ombudsman investigation into a broader debate over due process, public order and the limits of protest. by AJPress MANILA — A threatened plunder prosecution against Sen. Rodante Marcoleta moved beyond the confines of the Office of the Ombudsman this week as thousands of Iglesia ni Cristo members gathered near the People Power Monument, turning a legal dispute involving campaign contributions into a highly visible
WASHINGTON — The Justice Department has directed federal prosecutors to prioritize investigations and prosecutions of alleged fraudulent “birth tourism” schemes after the Supreme Court rejected President Donald Trump’s effort to restrict birthright citizenship.
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Philippines faces financing test in race to build digital backbone Public investment, development lending and regulatory reform are emerging as critical to expanding broadband access and supporting the country’s technology-driven economy
demonstration of political and institutional support. The gatherings on Tuesday and Wednesday disrupted traffic along EDSA, prompted a large police deployment and forced Quezon City officials to balance the constitutional right to peaceful assembly against complaints from commuters, workers, students, businesses
MANILA — The Philippines’ effort to compete in a digital global economy is confronting a question: who will finance the networks needed to connect communities, businesses and institutions nationwide? CitizenWatch Philippines, a nonprofit advocacy organization, is urging the government and development-finance institutions to com-
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by AJPress
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JULY 3 - JULY 9, 2026 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
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From the Front Page
Philippines enters World Bank’s uppermiddle-income ranks
GNI per capita reaches $4,850, marking an economic milestone that leaves questions about jobs, prices and household security by AJPress
HEIGHTENED SECURITY. Razor wires are placed across the Ayala Bridge leading to the Malacañang Complex on Wednesday (July 1, 2026). Motorists have been advised to take alternative routes due to heightened security measures following a protest action carried out by members of a religious group. PNA photo by Yancy Lim
Supreme Court ends 2025–2026... PAGE 1
direction. In some cases, the justices strengthened presidential authority within the executive branch. In others, they drew firm constitutional and statutory limits on executive action. One of the term’s most closely watched decisions involved President Donald Trump’s Executive Order 14160, which sought to deny automatic U.S. citizenship to certain children born in the United States to parents who were unlawfully or temporarily present in the country. In Trump v. Barbara, the Court ruled that the order could not take effect. Six justices voted to block it. Five concluded that the children covered by the order are citizens at birth under the Citizenship Clause of the 14th Amendment. Justice Brett Kavanaugh agreed that the order was unlawful, but based his vote on federal citizenship statutes enacted by Congress rather than on the constitutional question. The split produced an important distinction: a 6-3 judgment against the executive order, but a 5-4 division on the constitutional reasoning. The result preserved the long-standing rule associated with United States v. Wong Kim Ark, the 1898 case involving the U.S.-born son of Chinese immigrants that has long anchored birthright-citizenship law. The ruling carried significance beyond immigration. It served as a reminder that executive orders cannot rewrite
constitutional guarantees or override citizenship laws passed by Congress. The Court also addressed presidential power directly in Trump v. Slaughter, a case involving President Trump’s removal of Federal Trade Commissioner Rebecca Slaughter. In a 6-3 decision, the Court held that statutory limits protecting FTC commissioners from removal were unconstitutional, expanding presidential control over independent regulatory agencies. The Court, however, did not treat every office the same way. In separate disputes, it left room for limits involving institutions such as the Federal Reserve and the Library of Congress. Taken together, the presidential-power rulings showed both sides of the Court’s approach: a stronger view of the president’s authority within the executive branch, paired with clear limits when executive action conflicts with the Constitution or federal statute. In election law, the Court struck down federal limits on coordinated spending between political parties and candidates. The majority held that the restrictions violated the First Amendment’s protections for political speech and association. The ruling will allow parties and candidates greater freedom to coordinate campaign expenditures in future elections. Supporters of the challenge argued that the limits restricted core political expression. Defenders of the law said the rules helped pre-
vent circumvention of contribution limits. The Court sided with the challengers, reshaping a key part of federal campaign-finance law. On LGBTQ rights, the Court upheld laws in West Virginia and Idaho restricting transgender girls and women from competing on school athletic teams designated for females. The ruling addressed school athletics and did not resolve every legal question involving gender identity, transgender rights or LGBTQ protections. The term’s decisions are likely to reverberate across government and public life. Federal agencies will adjust to the Court’s rulings on presidential supervision. Election officials, political parties and campaigns will operate under new campaign-finance rules. Schools and state officials will interpret the ruling on athletic participation. Immigration lawyers and families will rely on the Court’s reaffirmation of birthright citizenship. The 2025–2026 term ultimately underscored the Supreme Court’s central role in defining the boundaries of American law. The justices did not simply settle isolated disputes. They clarified who may claim citizenship at birth, how far a president may go, how campaigns may spend money and how states may regulate school sports. Those rulings will now move from the courtroom into agencies, schools, campaigns, state legislatures and lower courts, where their practical meaning will be tested long after the term has ended. n
MANILA — The Philippines has moved into the World Bank’s upper-middle-income category after its gross national income per capita rose above the institution’s latest threshold, advancing from its previous lower-middle-income classification. The World Bank classification, released July 1, applies from July 2026 through June 2027 and is based on 2025 income data. Philippine GNI per capita reached $4,850, exceeding the $4,636 minimum for upper-middle-income economies. Under the new thresholds, lower-middle-income economies have GNI per capita from $1,176 to $4,635. Upper-middle-income economies range from $4,636 to $14,375, while those above $14,375 are classified as high income.
The Philippines joined Jordan, the Federated States of Micronesia, Sri Lanka and Vietnam in moving up one income category. Togo advanced from low-income to lower-middle-income status. The World Bank said the Philippine reclassification reflected broad-based expansion rather than a surge in a single sector. Gross domestic product grew by an average of 5.8% annually from 2021 through 2025, with gains across major industries. Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the milestone showed the economy’s resilience and acknowledged the contribution of overseas Filipino workers to national income. Balisacan said the government’s longer-term objective is to create more productive and better-paying jobs at home so working abroad be-
comes a choice rather than an economic necessity. The World Bank calculates GNI per capita through its Atlas method, which converts national income into U.S. dollars while smoothing shortterm exchange-rate swings. The measure includes income earned by a country’s residents, including net income from abroad. The $4,850 figure is a national statistical average, not the typical salary of a Filipino worker. The reclassification does not mean most Filipinos have entered the middle class, nor does it make the Philippines a high-income or developed economy. The change could affect access to concessional loans and development assistance because some institutions use income classifications in setting eligibility. Any reduction
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Former public works chief Bonoan... PAGE 1 The Second Division postponed a July 1 pretrial conference in a graft case until July 14. The Fifth Division moved proceedings in the related plunder case to July 28. Bonoan has not entered a plea in the cases. Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla announced June 29 that prosecutors had entered into a cooperation agreement with the former Cabinet official. Remulla said Bonoan had offered to provide information about how the alleged transactions operated and to identify officials and private individuals who may have participated. The agreement does not by itself remove Bonoan from the cases. It is also not a confession, guilty plea or judicial finding that the allegations against him or the other defendants are true. Bonoan is charged with Sen. Jinggoy Estrada and former Department of Public Works and Highways officials Denryl Caesar Cortuna, Manuel Bulusan and Arturo Gonzales Jr. in a plunder case involving more than P573 million in alleged unlawful
payments. They also face related graft charges. Prosecutors allege that funds allocated to selected infrastructure projects under the 2025 national budget were tied to predetermined commissions. They accuse Estrada of receiving more than P573 million through the alleged arrangement. Estrada has denied receiving kickbacks and has challenged the cases against him. The three former public works officials have entered not-guilty pleas. No court has determined that the alleged arrangement occurred as prosecutors describe it. Bonoan’s cooperation agreement does not establish the guilt of any defendant. The Sandiganbayan must decide whether Bonoan may be removed from the criminal informations and permitted to testify for the government. Under the Rules of Criminal Procedure, a court considering such a request must examine the prosecution’s evidence and the proposed witness’s sworn statement. Prosecutors must establish, among other requirements, that the testimony is nec-
essary, can be substantially corroborated and comes from a person who does not appear to be the most guilty. The final decision rests with the court, not the Ombudsman. If the Sandiganbayan grants the request, Bonoan’s discharge would generally operate as an acquittal and prevent another prosecution for the same offense. That protection could be lost if he refuses or fails to testify in accordance with the sworn statement supporting his discharge. If the court denies the request, Bonoan would remain an accused. Bonoan remains confined at the Philippine National Police General Hospital in Camp Crame under a hospital-detention arrangement approved on medical grounds. Prosecutors have cited his age and health in explaining the need to preserve his testimony. The Sandiganbayan’s rulings will determine whether Bonoan remains among the defendants and whether prosecutors may proceed with their plan to use him as a witness. n
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Dateline USA
Student loan overhaul begins as SAVE... PAGE 1 the new Tiered Standard Plan. One new choice is the Repayment Assistance Plan, or RAP. Payments range from 1% to 10% of adjusted gross income and are reduced by $50 for each dependent. The minimum payment is $10. Borrowers who make their full payment on time will not have unpaid interest added to the balance. When a payment reduces principal by less than $50, the government will contribute enough to bring that month’s principal reduction to as much as $50. Any balance remaining after 360 monthly, on-time payments may be discharged. The Tiered Standard Plan is not based on income. It pro-
vides fixed repayment periods of 10, 15, 20 or 25 years, depending on the amount owed. A longer term can reduce the monthly bill but generally increases the interest paid over time. Other plans may remain available depending on loan type and eligibility. Former SAVE borrowers should not assume their bills will change by the same amount. Payments depend on income, dependents, loan balance and the selected plan. Borrowers who qualified for a zero-dollar or very low SAVE payment may face an increase. Under the new limits, graduate students may borrow $20,500 annually and $100,000 in total. Students in qualifying professional pro-
grams may borrow $50,000 annually and $200,000 overall. New Grad PLUS loans are eliminated. Parent PLUS borrowing is capped at $20,000 annually and $65,000 overall for each dependent student. A $257,500 lifetime federal limit also generally applies to covered student borrowers. A temporary exception may apply to students enrolled in the same program by June 30 who had already received a Direct Loan for that program before July 1. Borrowers should read their notices, use the federal repayment calculator to compare available options and act before the deadline stated in their notice. n
Philippines enters World Bank’s... PAGE 2 would depend on the rules of individual lenders and programs. The designation may also shape how investors and international institutions compare the Philippines with peer economies, although it does not automatically change the country’s credit ratings or borrowing costs. The milestone comes amid
weaker conditions in 2026. The economy grew 2.8% in the first quarter, while inflation reached 6.8% in May. The government has lowered its full-year growth forecast to 3.5% to 4.5%. Economic vulnerability also remains widespread. A World Bank report in June said poverty fell to 15.5% in 2023 from 23.5% in 2015. Nearly 28% of Filipinos, however,
remained vulnerable to falling into poverty, while the secure middle class accounted for about one-quarter of the population. The move establishes a higher benchmark for the Philippines. Its significance will depend on whether rising national income translates into stable jobs, higher productivity and broader gains for poor and vulnerable households. n
Pacquiao-Mayweather rematch postponed as contract dispute clouds schedule Pacquiao’s camp says early 2027 is the earliest possible window and is considering other opponents for September by AJPress LOS ANGELES — The rematch between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. has been postponed indefinitely, Manny Pacquiao Promotions chief executive Jas Mathur said, leaving the event without a replacement date. Pacquiao’s camp said early 2027 is the earliest possible window. Mathur also said Pacquiao’s team is considering alternative opponents for a possible September fight while preserving enough preparation time for a later Mayweather bout. Netflix announced in February that the rematch would take place Sept. 19 at Sphere in Las Vegas and stream worldwide. The event was to be produced by EverWonder Studio, Hidden Empire Film Group and Limitless X Holdings, with Manny Pacquiao Promotions,
Mayweather Promotions and CSI Sports/Fight Sports listed as promoters. By late March, Mayweather said the venue had not been settled and described the event as an exhibition. Pacquiao said the agreement he signed called for a professional fight. Netflix’s public event page still carried the original date and Sphere listing when reviewed. Separately, CSI Entertainment LLC, CSI Sports Events LLC and CSI Entertainment Events LLC filed a federal lawsuit June 18 against Mayweather and Frist Apex Ventures LLC in the Southern District of New York. The complaint alleges breach of contract involving proposed events with Pacquiao and former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson. The plaintiffs say they paid $4.65 million in advances under agreements tied to those
events and are seeking repayment and other relief. The allegations have not been adjudicated, and the lawsuit does not establish that Mayweather or Frist Apex breached an agreement or owes the amount claimed. CSI also sought emergency relief involving a Mayweather exhibition against Greek kickboxer Mike Zambidis that had been scheduled for June 27 in Athens. Court filings later said the event would not proceed as planned. Pacquiao and Mayweather first fought May 2, 2015. Mayweather won by unanimous decision in a bout that generated about 4.6 million pay-perview purchases and a live gate of approximately $72 million. The latest announcement describes the rematch as postponed, not canceled. No new date, venue or fight classification has been confirmed. n
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White Ribbon March presses anticorruption and political reform demands Faith and civil society groups call for stronger investigations, closer scrutiny of public spending and meaningful restrictions on political dynasties by AJPress QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Thousands joined the White Ribbon March on Sunday, June 28, renewing a faith-led campaign against corruption and calling for government accountability and political reform. Participants gathered for a Mass at the EDSA Shrine before marching to the People Power Monument. The Quezon City Police District estimated attendance at about 3,500, while the Philippine National Police said the event was generally peaceful, with no major disturbance reported. The march drew participants from Catholic, Protestant, evangelical and Muslim communities, along with labor, business and civil society groups. Organizers described the event as nonpartisan. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ Episcopal Commission on Interreligious Dialogue said elected officials could attend but would not be given speaking roles. CBCP President and Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera encouraged participation, describing the march as an appeal for truth, justice, accountability and integrity in public life. Organizers presented the
gathering as a continuation of the Trillion Peso March protests, which focused attention on alleged irregularities involving flood-control projects. A principal demand was the enactment and strict enforcement of an anti-political dynasty law. Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution directs the state to guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties “as may be defined by law.” The House of Representatives approved House Bill 8389, or the proposed Anti-Political Dynasty Act, on third and final reading on June 3. Debate has continued over which family relationships, elective positions and forms of simultaneous or successive officeholding should be covered. Participants urged lawmakers to adopt stronger restrictions on the concentration of elective offices among members of the same families. Critics of the House-approved bill have argued that its provisions are too limited, while supporters describe it as an initial step toward carrying out the Constitution’s directive. Marchers also called on the Office of the Ombudsman and the Department
of Justice to expedite investigations and prosecutions involving alleged corruption. Any proceedings would remain subject to evidentiary standards, due process and the presumption of innocence. The Ombudsman may investigate and prosecute misconduct involving public officials. The Justice Department, through its prosecutors and investigative agencies, may investigate suspected crimes and determine whether evidence supports charges. Participants urged the Commission on Audit to intensify its examination of government accounts, identify questionable expenditures and refer potential violations to the appropriate authorities. COA may issue audit findings and notices of disallowance, while recovery of funds may require further administrative or judicial proceedings. Some participating organizations raised additional political demands, but those positions were not necessarily shared by every participant or included in the organizers’ common platform. Religious leaders said misuse of public money deprives communities of resources intended for education, health care, infrastructure and other services. n
Justice Department prioritizes... PAGE 1
In a June 30 memorandum, Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald instructed prosecutors to coordinate with the Department of Homeland Security and examine whether evidence supports charges under law. The memorandum identifies possible offenses including visa fraud, wire fraud, money laundering, unlawful use of identification documents, aggravated identity theft and conspiracy to commit health-care fraud. The directive does not change the citizenship status of children covered by the Supreme Court’s ruling. It also does not make pregnancy, childbirth or lawful travel for medical treatment a cri-
me. Any prosecution would require evidence establishing a federal offense. The State Department says travel undertaken primarily to give birth in the United States so a child may obtain citizenship is not a permissible basis for a visitor visa. Separate rules allow travel for legitimate medical treatment, subject to visa requirements and proof that related expenses can be paid. The directive followed the Court’s decision in Trump v. Barbara, which blocked Executive Order 14160. Trump signed the order in January 2025, directing federal agencies not to recognize citizenship for certain U.S.born children whose mothers were unlawfully present or
held temporary status and whose fathers were neither U.S. citizens nor lawful permanent residents. The justices affirmed the lower court’s injunction by a 6-3 judgment but divided over the legal basis. Chief Justice John Roberts, joined by Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, Amy Coney Barrett and Ketanji Brown Jackson, held that the affected children are citizens at birth under the Fourteenth Amendment. Justice Brett Kavanaugh supplied the sixth vote against the order, concluding that it conflicted with the federal citizenship statute while disagreeing with the majority’s constitutional analysis. Justices Clarence Tho-
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JULY 3 - JULY 9, 2026 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
Philippines faces financing test... PAGE 1
mit capital to broadband infrastructure, arguing that telecommunications companies cannot shoulder the full cost of extending networks into areas where commercial returns remain uncertain. The group said public investment could help bring fiber-optic connectivity to rural and underserved communities, where difficult terrain, high construction costs and limited demand can make projects less attractive to operators. CitizenWatch estimated that telecommunications and broadband companies spent more than P1.8 trillion in capital expenditures from 2011 through 2025, based on disclosed financial statements. The amount is the organization’s calculation, not an official government or industry total. Its statement did not provide a company-by-company breakdown that would allow the figure to be reproduced. Telecommunications capital spending also covers mobile networks, towers, data centers, software and other assets—not only fiber systems. CitizenWatch said government appropriations, devel-
opment-bank lending and public-private partnerships could absorb risk in projects companies may find commercially difficult. It linked stronger infrastructure to artificial intelligence, cloud computing, advanced manufacturing, financial services and other industries dependent on reliable connections. The government is already expanding its role. The World Bank approved $287.24 million for the Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project in October 2024. The program supports the government’s national fiber-optic backbone and middle- and last-mile connections intended to reach institutions and communities outside major commercial centers. It is expected to provide new or improved broadband access to more than 20 million Filipinos by 2028. The Department of Budget and Management also released P3 billion in 2025 for internet connectivity in public schools and community locations. The funding included support for at least 8,253 public schools and the Department of Information and Communications Technol-
ogy’s Free Public Internet Access Program. The government has expanded the National Fiber Backbone and launched the National Digital Connectivity Plan, which calls for faster deployment, competition and broader service in geographically isolated areas. The Konektadong Pinoy Act, which lapsed into law on Aug. 24, 2025, created an open-access framework for data transmission and encouraged infrastructure sharing, subject to registration, technical and cybersecurity requirements. The Philippine Statistics Authority estimated that the digital economy generated P2.74 trillion in gross value added in 2025, equivalent to 9.8 percent of gross domestic product, and employed about 10.39 million people. The figures are preliminary. CitizenWatch did not identify an appropriation or lending facility. Any expansion of public financing would require standards, project review and safeguards to direct government capital toward underserved areas without subsidizing investments the private sector can finance. n
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INC rallies thrust Marcoleta... PAGE 1 and patients affected by road congestion. At the center of the controversy is the Ombudsman’s announced plan to file plunder and indirect-bribery charges against Marcoleta, an INC member elected to the Senate in 2025. Ombudsman investigators allege that Marcoleta received P75 million in campaign contributions from former Quezon City representative Mike Defensor and businessmen Joseph Espiritu and Aristotle Viray. Investigators have recommended that the three contributors also be charged in connection with the transactions. Marcoleta and Defensor have denied criminal wrongdoing and questioned the legal basis and timing of the proposed prosecution. Marcoleta has described the case as politically motivated, while Defensor has argued that the contributions did not involve public funds. Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla rejected accusations of political persecution and said the case would proceed despite the demonstrations. As of press time, however, the charges had not been publicly confirmed as filed before the Sandiganbayan, and no arrest warrant against Marcoleta had been announced. The distinction is significant. A recommendation by Ombudsman investigators or an announcement that charges will be filed does not amount to a judicial finding of probable cause. If a case is filed, the Sandiganbayan must independently evaluate the information and supporting evidence before deciding whether to issue an arrest warrant. The controversy originated partly from Marcoleta’s campaign-finance declarations. The Commission on Elections previously dismissed an election-offense complaint against him, finding insufficient grounds to prosecute him for failing to identify the contributors in his Statement of Contributions and Expenditures. Comelec Chairman George Garcia has explained that amendments to election law removed criminal liability for a candidate’s failure to disclose donors, although contributors may still face separate proceedings if they failed to submit reports required by election law. The Comelec ruling and the Ombudsman
Sen. Rodante Marcoleta.
investigation address different statutes and do not necessarily dictate the outcome of one another. The INC began what it called an “emergency rally” before dawn Tuesday without a permit from the Quezon City government. Police estimated that the first-day crowd reached about 15,000. Four participants were taken into custody following confrontations in which police reported that several officers were injured. The detainees were subsequently released as authorities reviewed the incidents. The city later issued a permit allowing the gathering to continue Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. along White Plains Avenue and Temple Drive. Authorities required participants to remain within the authorized area and keep EDSA open. Marcoleta appeared before supporters Wednesday evening. Defensor and Sen. Imee Marcos were also present, placing prominent political figures at the center of a gathering that organizers portrayed as a protest against what they called selective justice. The INC maintained that it was not attempting to prevent the enforcement of the law. Its representatives said the organization opposed what it considered the unequal or politically influenced application of legal standards. The demonstrations nevertheless raised questions about whether a large public mobilization could place pressure on prosecutors and courts. The Ombudsman maintained that its decisions would be based on the evidence rather than the size of the gathering. Quezon City initially issued authorization that would have allowed the protest to continue Thursday. The city withdrew that permit Wednesday night after receiving complaints about severe traffic disruption and what officials described as violations of the agreement requiring participants to stay off
STAR / Jesse Bustos
EDSA. City officials said thousands of people had been delayed or prevented from reaching schools and workplaces and that businesses had been affected. The Wednesday program ended at about 8 p.m., with organizers announcing that the next gathering would be moved to Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila. Malacañang sought to separate the administration from the prosecution. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the government respected the rights to free expression and peaceful assembly but maintained that demonstrations should not unduly interfere with the rights and safety of the wider public. Castro also said rallies could not determine whether a person would be cleared or convicted. Any criminal case, she said, must be resolved through the Ombudsman, prosecutors and the courts. The Palace said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had instructed law-enforcement authorities to exercise maximum tolerance. Police placed forces on heightened alert and deployed personnel to control traffic and secure the gathering. Transportation officials also inspected MRT-3 stations and directed personnel to assist passengers as commuters sought alternatives to congested roads. The demonstrations ended their Quezon City phase without resolving the underlying dispute. The INC showed its capacity to mobilize thousands on short notice, while the Ombudsman publicly signaled that the display of support would not alter its course. What follows will be determined not along EDSA or at a rally stage, but through the filing and review of the proposed charges. Marcoleta, Defensor, Espiritu and Viray remain entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty in court. n
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JULY 3 - JULY 9, 2026 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
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Opinion
The birthright citizenship debate continues, but Trump’s order cannot take effect
Features
The Supreme Court did not end disagreement over citizenship policy. Five justices found the president’s restrictions unconstitutional, while a sixth concluded that they violated existing federal law. THE Supreme Court’s ruling on birthright citizenship separates a continuing policy debate from an executive order that may not be enforced. Americans may still debate whether citizenship by birth should remain the constitutional rule, whether a parent’s immigration status or permanent ties should matter, and how the United States should address unlawful immigration, temporary visas and travel undertaken for childbirth. The ruling does not end those discussions. It establishes what the law presently requires. In Trump v. Barbara, the justices considered whether Executive Order 14160 complied with the Citizenship Clause of the 14th
Amendment and the federal citizenship statute. President Donald Trump issued the order on Jan. 20, 2025. It directed federal agencies not to recognize citizenship when a child’s mother was unlawfully present and the father was neither a U.S. citizen nor a lawful permanent resident, or when the mother was lawfully but temporarily present and the father was neither a citizen nor a permanent resident. The administration argued that birth within the United States and subjection to its laws were not enough. In its interpretation, the phrase “subject to the jurisdiction” required
Editorial
With Due Respect Artemio V. Panganiban THE impeachment case of Vice President Sara Duterte has revived yet another constitutional numbers game. But numbers and debates aside, I firmly believe that a major turning point in this political saga lies in the pretrial that concluded on June 25 and laid the cornerstones before the trial proper begins on July 6 and the votes to be cast at the end of the trial.
For now, look at the means, not yet the end AT THE OUTSET, LET ME POINT OUT THE CONSTITUTIONAL GUIDANCE: “No person shall be convicted without the concurrence of two-thirds of all the Members of the Senate.” (Article XI, Section 3[6]). In the 24-member Senate (acting as the Impeachment Court), this translates academically to the magic number of 16. On this threshold number, let me share two eminent views from my fellow Supreme Court retirees. Retired Senior Associate
complete political jurisdiction, sufficient allegiance and a more permanent connection to the country.
Babe Romualdez
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National heroes or national villains?
babe’s eye view
Justice (SAJ) Antonio T. Carpio contends that the votes required to convict are based on “all members of the Senate” who remain legally qualified to perform their sworn duties. In his view, the preventive suspension of Sen. Jinggoy Estrada removes him from the computation because, per Trillanes v. Pimentel (June 27, 2008, per J. Carpio Morales, en banc), a suspended official cannot hold public office; therefore, he
ManilaTimes.net photo
The government maintained that temporary visitors retained their principal attach-
OMBUDSMAN Crispin “Boying” Remulla was in Washington, D.C. for important meetings with the US Department of Justice. Significantly, his team requested the Philippine embassy to arrange a dialogue with leaders and representatives of Filipino American organizations, community groups and professional associations to discuss issues that involve accountability and governance.
One major topic that dominated the conversations was the massive corruption scandal involving flood control projects that Filipino Americans have been closely following. Everyone – not only those present during the special dialogue with Ombudsman Remulla – from Washington to Manila and countries across the globe, are all asking: why is the biggest fish – who should be held accountable – still not being charged?
This issue cuts deep because Fil-Ams are the biggest contributors to remittances and charitable projects to the Philippines. To many of them, this is about protecting homes, businesses, communities and the very lives of Filipinos from the increasingly destructive and fatal consequences of floods due to climate change/natural disasters, aggravated by insufficient protection due to substandard and inexistent
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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. ADVERTISING AND ADVERTORIAL POLICIES
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Opinion & Features
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • JULY 3 - JULY 9, 2026
The birthright citizenship debate... PAGE 6
TRIAL PREPARATIONS. Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian leads a walkthrough at the Senate plenary hall on Tuesday (June 30, 2026), where the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte will be held. The trial is set to begin on Monday (July 6). (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)
National heroes or national villains?...
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or “ghost” flood control projects. Every year, countless Filipinos endure the same cycle – heavy rains, clogged canals and creeks, rising floodwaters, damaged homes, paralyzed business activities and tragic loss of life. Entire communities are displaced. Children are traumatized. Families lose everything. That is why allegations that trillions of pesos allocated for flood mitigation may have been lost to corruption have triggered nationwide anger, with social media also sparking online rage because of posts that depict the plight of ordinary Filipinos wading in knee deep and dirty floodwaters, their homes submerged – in contrast with the Facebook photos and TikTok videos of the wives and “nepo babies” of politicians and contractors accused of corruption flying in private jets, wearing expensive jewelry and designer outfits, flaunting their lavish lifestyles and obscene wealth. Public anger is not simply about stolen money – it is about stolen protection. Funds that were intended to save lives may have instead been siphoned into the pockets of a few. Ombudsman Remulla gave updates about the high-profile investigations that their office is conducting, knowing fully well that the issue involves “serious concerns on
public accountability, transparency and the protection of public resources.” He also had confidential meetings with officials of the US Department of Justice and the World Bank whose Integrity Vice Presidency (INT) unit conducts investigations on alleged fraud, corruption, collusion and coercion to ensure that the bank’s financial resources are used to alleviate poverty and not used for illicit activities. The World Bank also partnered with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to establish the Stolen Asset Recovery Initiative (StAR) that seeks to end safe havens for corrupt funds and help developing nations recover stolen public assets to help fight corruption and end impunity. The UNODC estimates that “hundreds of billions of dollars are paid in bribes and hundreds of billions ‘laundered’ around the world each year.” According to the Office of the Ombudsman, 209 complaints involving flood control projects are undergoing fact-finding investigations in the first six months of this year alone, with four cases already filed before the courts – more than double the 124 complaints last year that underwent fact-finding investigations, with 36 proceeding to preliminary investigation and/or administrative adjudi-
cation. Ombudsman Boying knows the work is enormous and would require cooperation with regional groups such as the Southeast Asian Ombudsman Forum or SEAOF, a regional platform composed of independent government watchdogs and anti-corruption agencies across Southeast Asia. As part of case building, member-countries exchange best practices on intelligence-gathering, digital forensics and asset-recovery protocols to track down illicit funds across borders. We were pleased to hear from Ombudsman Boying that there are so many young idealistic lawyers coming from top schools such as UP, Ateneo, La Salle and several other schools who have come forward and contribute to the good of the country, like Assistant Ombudsman and spokesman Mico Clavano and Assistant Ombudsman for Internal Affairs Luigi Bonoan, whom I was pleased to meet at our Philippine embassy event. One can’t really blame Filipinos for feeling suspicious and cynical, having seen the same story countless times: scandal erupts. Headlines explode all over. Public outrage intensifies. Investigations begin. Hearings are televised nationwide. But then nothing happens. The ombudsman’s office
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ment elsewhere and that people unlawfully present lacked the U.S. domicile it considered necessary. It also urged a narrower reading of the Supreme Court’s 1898 decision in United States v. Wong Kim Ark. Wong was born in San Francisco to Chinese immigrant parents who lived permanently in the United States but were barred from naturalization. The administration argued that the case protected children of permanently domiciled immigrants but did not settle the status of children born to temporary visitors or people unlawfully present. Chief Justice John Roberts, joined by Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, Amy Coney Barrett and Ketanji Brown Jackson, rejected that interpretation. The five-justice majority held that the children covered by the order are citizens under the 14th Amendment. The majority interpreted jurisdiction as the United States’ authority to govern people within its territory. Foreign nationals, including temporary visitors and people unlawfully present, remain subject to that authority. Their children, when born in the United States, are therefore born under U.S. jurisdiction, the majority concluded. The Court traced the Citizenship Clause to the common-law principle of jus soli, under which citizenship generally follows the place of birth. It recognized narrow historical exceptions, including children of accredited foreign diplomats. The majority also concluded that Wong Kim Ark did not make parental domicile a condi-
tion of citizenship. The voting requires explanation because the justices agreed on the result by a different margin than they agreed on the constitutional reasoning. Six justices voted to block Executive Order 14160, producing a 6-3 judgment. Three voted to allow it to take effect. On the constitutional question, however, the division was 5-4. Five justices held that the children covered by the order are citizens under the 14th Amendment. Justice Brett Kavanaugh disagreed with that interpretation, placing him with the three dissenting justices on that issue, although he did not join their opinions. Kavanaugh nevertheless supplied the sixth vote against the order. He concluded that it conflicted with Section 1401(a), the federal citizenship law enacted by Congress. In his view, Congress could create additional exceptions, but the president could not establish them by executive order when they did not appear in existing law. Five justices therefore found the restrictions unconstitutional, while Kavanaugh found them unlawful under federal statute. His broader view of congressional authority did not command a majority. Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch dissented, although their reasoning differed. Thomas, joined by Gorsuch, emphasized domicile, or a permanent legal home. Gorsuch also questioned the breadth of the challenge. Alito focused on complete allegiance and whether a person remained subject to another
country. Those divisions explain why the policy debate will continue. Supporters of a narrower rule may argue that citizenship should require parental domicile, lawful residence or a more permanent national connection. Supporters of the existing rule may argue that citizenship based on birthplace provides a clear standard and avoids different legal classifications among children born in the country. The ruling concerns the child’s citizenship. It does not grant lawful status to the parents of a U.S.-born child, prevent immigration enforcement against them or create an immediate right to permanent residence. Congress may continue to legislate on immigration enforcement, visas and fraud. But a law imposing substantially the same citizenship exclusions would confront the five-justice majority’s constitutional holding. Kavanaugh believed Congress possessed broader authority, but that view did not receive five votes. The constitutional rule could be changed by amendment, and a future Supreme Court could reconsider the decision. Neither possibility alters the present result. Some may agree with the administration’s proposed restrictions, while others may support the rule adopted by the majority. That disagreement remains part of the country’s political and legal debate. Executive Order 14160 stands on different ground. Under the Supreme Court’s ruling, it may not be enforced as written. (AJPress) n
carries a heavy burden. It must prove that the rule of law still matters and that public office remains a public trust. Boying told me about the medical issues he went through and truly believes he has this calling in life as ombudsman. He said, “Our office stands at the forefront of addressing one of the most significant governance challenges confronting our country. I will do my job without fear or favor.” If credible evidence points to wrongdoing, charges will be filed swiftly, fairly and without fear or favor. No sacred cows. No political exemptions. No selective jus-
tice. If institutions act decisively, the message will be powerful: corruption has consequences. That message can restore confidence in governance, encourage honest public servants and reassure citizens that justice remains possible. Even the strongest democracies face scandals and corruption, but what separates strong institutions from weak ones is accountability. If this flood control scandal fades into silence, public cynicism will deepen – and that is dangerous. When people stop believing institutions can work, they disengage. Dysfunction becomes normalized. Cor-
ruption becomes harder to uproot. The question now foremost in the minds of Filipinos is this: will those entrusted with public service rise to the occasion as national heroes – or will they be remembered as national villains who betrayed public trust? The answer lies with the Office of the Ombudsman. (Philstar.com) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com n
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JULY 3 - JULY 9, 2026 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
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VP defense team to present ‘surprise witnesses’
State, official or working visit? Here’s the difference by Kurt Dela Peña
by Bella Cariaso
MANILA, Philippines — Not all overseas trips by world leaders are the same. State, official, and working visits each serve different diplomatic purposes and follow different protocols. State visit A state visit is the highest form of diplomatic engagement between countries. Reserved exclusively for heads of state, it is marked by the highest level of ceremony, including full military honors, the playing of both countries’ national anthems, and a state banquet. Beyond the ceremonies, a state visit is intended to strengthen bilateral relations at the highest political level. It often includes meetings between leaders, the signing of agreements, and engagements aimed at deepening cooperation in areas such as trade, defense, investment, education, and culture. Official visit
MANILA — For security reasons, the defense team of impeached Vice President Sara Duterte has opted to keep secret the identities of some of its 90 witnesses, but would be ready to present them as “surprise witnesses” if necessary during her trial. This was according to defense spokesman Michael Poa in an interview with Bilyonaryo News Channel. Poa also rejected insinuations that Duterte’s legal team was just copying the witnesses of the House of Representatives prosecution panel. “I took exception to that because we’re not copying their witnesses. We submitted a pre-trial brief at the same time. So it’s not as if we copied it. But most are similar to their witnesses,” Poa said. “We did not include certain witnesses, especially their names, for security reasons. So maybe that’s where our witnesses differ. But I cannot
Philstar.com
Inquirer.net
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. departs for Canada on Tuesday for an Official Visit aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, defense, investment, and regional security, underscoring the growing partnership between the Philippines and Canada PCO Photo
An official visit is typically undertaken by a head of government or, in some cases, a cabinet-level official at the invitation of the host government. While it may include military honors—particularly for a visiting head of government— it generally does not feature the full ceremonial program or state banquet associated with a state visit. Instead, the
focus is on advancing bilateral relations through meetings, policy discussions, and the signing of agreements. For both state and official visits, the host country generally covers the official delegation’s expenses, including accommodations and transportation, although arrangements may vary depending on
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Vice President Sara Duterte.
share their names for security purposes. And that’s part and parcel of the guidelines we gave at the pre-trial conference. That we cannot name the witnesses for as long as we state the purpose, what their purpose is,” Poa added. The House prosecution has said it would present at least 57 witnesses during the impeachment trial. The Senate impeachment court has approved a 92-day trial for Duterte. “We just say five witnesses from, for example, the Office of the President, or five wit-
STAR / KJ Rosales
nesses from the Department of Education, for example, to prove certain allegations, or to disprove certain allegations of the prosecution. That’s what we’re doing. Now, that’s allowed,” he explained. The approved trial period – contained in the 14-page Pre-Trial Order signed by Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian on June 29 – is much shorter than the previous estimate of seven to eight months. Based on the order, 62
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For now, look at the means,... PAGE 6 cannot act as a senator-judge. The impeachment case of Vice President Sara Duterte has revived yet another constitutional numbers game. But numbers and debates aside, I firmly believe that a major turning point in this political saga lies in the pretrial that concluded on June 25 and laid the cornerstones before the trial proper begins on July 6 and the votes to be cast at the end of the trial. AT THE OUTSET, LET ME POINT OUT THE CONSTITUTIONAL GUIDANCE: “No person shall be convicted without the concurrence of two-thirds of all the Members of the Senate.” (Article XI, Section 3[6]). In the 24-member Senate (acting as the Impeachment Court), this translates academically to the magic number of 16. On this threshold number, let me share two eminent views from my fellow Supreme Court retirees. Retired Senior Associate Justice (SAJ) Antonio T. Carpio contends that the votes required to convict are based on “all members of the Senate” who remain legally qualified to perform their sworn duties. In his view, the preventive suspension of Sen. Jinggoy Estrada removes him from the computation because, per Trillanes v. Pimentel (June 27, 2008, per J. Carpio Morales, en banc), a suspended official cannot hold public office; therefore, he cannot act as a senator-judge. Article continues after this advertisement SAJ Carpio also maintains that Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who has been hiding and evading an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court, cannot yet be excluded from the count because he has not been formally arrested or placed under preventive detention. In contrast, retired Justice Adolfo S. Azcuna, a distinguished framer of the 1987 Constitution, argues that should Sen. Dela Rosa be judicially declared a fugitive from justice and disentitled to his seat, his
status would amount to a “constructive resignation.” WITH DUE RESPECT, THE THRESHOLD TO CONVICT WOULD BECOME VITAL ONLY after the trial is finished and after the votes are cast. If the votes to convict are 16 or more, then any discussion of the threshold would be academic. However, if this figure is less than 16, then the required denominator would become crucial. At the present though, what infinitely matter more are the pretrial and later, the trial proper. Tiu v. Middleton (July 19, 1999, Third Division, a decision I had the honor of writing for the Court) referred to “pre-trial [a]s an essential device for the speedy disposition of disputes.” During this period, both the prosecution and the defense lay their cards on the table to avoid surprises and delays during the trial proper. Note, however, that an impeachment case is sui generis—a class of its own kind. For example, the impeachment pretrial does not permit amicable settlements, as in civil cases, or plea bargaining, as in criminal cases. A more jugular question than the voting threshold is what would happen should VP Sara resign amid the pretrial and trial. Well, that issue deserves a full column. For now, let us look at the means, not yet the end. The “Notice of Pre-Trial Conference,” issued on June 9 by Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, sought—among others—to secure: (1) a stipulation of facts and a simplification of issues; (2) the marking of documentary or real evidence and waiver of objections or admissions to evidence; (3) the number and identities of witnesses of both the defense and the prosecution (including “Mary Grace Piattos”); and (4) such other matters as will promote a fair and expeditious trial. FAITHFULLY ADHERING TO THE PRETRIAL GUIDELINES, the prosecution and the defense revealed their
witnesses and exhibits and established the paper trail of their respective positions. A well-executed pretrial ensures that when the senator-judges finally sit, they will judge based on clear, unvarnished facts rather than on useless debates on technicalities or evidentiary loopholes. Therefore, why was there so much ado about the marking of the so-called “BIR Green Box” that necessitated written comments from the opposing parties? After all, the purpose of marking is simply to identify it as a piece of prosecution evidence–a clerical job that does not involve the exercise of judicial discretion. Of course, its opening, admissibility, relevance, credibility, and weight would be addressed to the sound discretion of the SIC. Per Senate Secretary Renato Bantug, who acts as the SIC’s clerk of court, the prosecution asked for 62 trial days, and the defense, 30 days or a total of 92 days. If held three days a week (the Senate needs also to legislate and to conduct committee hearings), the trial, Bantug estimated, would take at least seven months to finish. Looks like a long journey before the SIC would reach its final judgment. Unless some unusual events happen, the prosecutors walk out, or VP Sara resigns. In sum, the true strength of a nation lies not in the perceived infallibility of its leaders, but in the integrity of the institutions ready to correct the frailties of those in power. Whether the Senate can summon that integrity when it convenes on July 6 will be revealed in due time. Until then, both the prosecution and the defense bear the shared responsibility of laying the procedural foundations to end the saga. (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 chiefjusticepanganiban@hotmail.com n
Isko seeks arrest of ex-city officials by Andrew Ronquillo Philstar.com
MANILA — Manila Mayor Isko Moreno is seeking the arrest of former city officials for their alleged involvement in the mismanagement of the local government’s funds. According to Moreno, three former city officials are facing graft cases before the Office of
the Ombudsman. “There are affidavits and sworn statements against these people. Hopefully, warrants of arrest will be issued against them because some of them have plunder cases,” Moreno said during the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum yesterday. Among those with pending cases, according to Moreno,
are former assistant city administrator Joy Dawis-Asuncion, former secretary to the mayor Marlon Lacson and former Public Employment Service Office manager Fernan Bermejo. “Where can you see P300 million in cash advances in a day for job orders?” Moreno said. n
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New U.S. envoy begins Manila posting with security and trade agenda
Lee Lipton takes up his assignment as the Philippines and the United States mark 80 years of diplomatic relations and 75 years of their defense treaty by AJPress
MANILA — Lee Lipton formally began his work as United States ambassador to the Philippines this week, opening his tenure with discussions on defense, maritime affairs, investment and regional security during meetings with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro. Lipton presented his credentials to Marcos at Malacañang on June 30, completing the diplomatic process authorizing him to represent Washington in Manila. He had paid a courtesy call on Lazaro at the Department of Foreign Affairs a day earlier. According to the Presidential Communications Office, Marcos and Lipton discussed economic and commercial cooperation, defense and security, maritime affairs, regional developments and the Philippines’ chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
At the DFA, Lazaro outlined Philippine priorities for the new ambassador’s tenure, including defense cooperation, economic security, trade, investment, regional affairs and stronger people-to-people ties. The officials also discussed the Luzon Economic Corridor, an infrastructure and investment initiative launched by the Philippines, the United States and Japan in 2024. The program seeks to improve transportation, energy systems, digital connectivity and industrial supply chains linking Subic Bay, Clark, Manila and Batangas. Eight additional partner governments joined the initiative in May, expanding efforts to attract private investment in transport, energy, advanced manufacturing and other sectors. An investor forum is scheduled in Manila in September. Lipton also affirmed U.S. support for the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship. Manila is leading the regional orga-
nization amid continuing concerns over maritime security, trade pressures and geopolitical competition in the Indo-Pacific. His priorities broadly reflect those he presented during his U.S. Senate confirmation process. In March, Lipton said he intended to strengthen security cooperation, improve supply-chain resilience, advance the Luzon Economic Corridor and promote fair and transparent trade. The Senate confirmed Lipton on May 18. He succeeds MaryKay Carlson, a career diplomat who served as ambassador beginning in 2022. Before his Philippine assignment, Lipton served at the U.S. Mission to the Organization of American States and previously worked in the fashion and hospitality industries. Lipton begins his posting as the two countries mark 80 years of diplomatic relations and 75 years since the signing of their Mutual Defense Treaty. n
VP defense team to present... PAGE 8 trial dates have been set for House prosecutors and 30 for the Vice President’s defense team. “On the part of the defense, we’ve been preparing for this for over a year now. In fact, we had our first impeachment complaint last year and we were ready to go to trial then, and we’re ready to go to trial now. But the first to present their evidence would be the prosecution. So, for us, we’re hoping that the public
would be patient enough to also wait for the evidence of the defense,” Poa explained. He added the defense team may decide not to present all 90 witnesses. “It will still depend on the case that the prosecution will make. It will depend on how the prosecution presents their evidence and we will have to react accordingly,” he pointed out. Poa also denied that the points raised by the defense team were just technicalities. “Number one, the issues
we are raising are constitutional by nature. It goes, it delves into due process. For example... a lot of the alleged or purported evidence that they are bringing up to the impeachment court are things that were not even attached to the impeachment complaints filed,” he said. “And for the defense, depending on what they present, that’s the time we actually determine what we need to bring out, and what we don’t need,” Poa said. n
State, official or working visit?... PAGE 8 the host country’s protocol. Working visit A working visit is the least ceremonial type of diplomatic engagement. It does not require a formal invitation and may be undertaken by a high-ranking government official. It is primarily focused on official business, such as bilateral meetings, international conferences, ministerial discussions, or sectoral negotiations. Unlike a state or official visit, a working visit does not
include military honors or a state banquet, and the visiting delegation generally shoulders its own expenses. Marcos’ Canada visit From July 1 to 4, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., together with First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, will visit Canada for an official visit at the invitation of the Canadian government. The trip will be Marcos’ 44th international visit since assuming office on June 30, 2022. It will also mark the first official visit by a Philippine
president to Canada in more than a decade. The Canada trip follows a series of overseas engagements this year, including visits to the United Arab Emirates in January, the United States in March, Japan in May, and Russia from June 17 to 18. On June 16, Marcos welcomed German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to Malacañang during Steinmeier’s state visit to the Philippines from June 15 to 17. /dl n
10 JULY 3 - JULY 9, 2026 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
West PH Sea: DND slams China over arbitral ruling response by Zacarian Sarao
Philippine solar-panel imports accelerate as electricity costs remain high Rooftop installations are expanding, but financing and upfront costs continue to limit access
Inquirer.net
MANILA — The Department of National Defense (DND) on Sunday slammed the Chinese Embassy in Manila over its response to the Department of Foreign Affairs’ (DFA) reaffirmation of the 2016 Arbitral Award, saying the embassy’s statement “offers a window into the true intentions of the Chinese Communist Party in dealing with our country.” The DND issued the statement after the Chinese Embassy on June 23 rejected the DFA’s reaffirmation of the arbitral ruling, describing the award as “political manipulation disguised in legal garb” and “illegal, null and void.” “The Chinese Embassy statement replying to our [DFA] is a window into the true intentions of the Chinese Communist Party in dealing with our Country,” said Defense Sec. Gilberto Teodoro Jr. in a statement. “It clearly shows their insincerity and duplicity which are
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by AJPress
Defense chief Gilberto Teodoro Jr. speaks to reporters on the sidelines of the Exercise Balikatan 2026 closing ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. Photo by Gabryelle Dumalag
amply personified by their Embassy officials. We condemn the arrogant display of deceitful indignation by them,” the defense chief said. “Hindi kapanipaniwala ang mga sinasabi kaya idinadaan sa alboroto (their claims are not credible, so they resort to bluster),” he added. The Philippines and China have been in a maritime dispute as the latter—through its so-called 10-dash line—claims ownership of much of the South China Sea, including
the West Philippine Sea, or the waters within the Philippines’ 370-kilometer exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The 2016 Arbitral Award, which stemmed from a case filed by Manila in 2013, invalidated Beijing’s sweeping claims, but the Asian giant does not recognize the ruling. (For comprehensive coverage, in-depth analysis, visit our special page for West Philippine Sea updates. Stay informed with articles, videos, and expert opinions.). n
MANILA — Solar-panel imports into the Philippines have accelerated as households and businesses look for protection from high electricity costs and volatile fuel markets. Energy research group Ember estimated that the country imported panels representing 5,068 megawatts of generating capacity in 2025. It said Chinese exports to the Philippines exceeded 3,000 MW in March and April 2026 alone, indicating that demand remained strong. The figures measure equipment entering the country, not operating capacity. Some panels may remain in inventory or await installation, permits and grid connection. The expansion comes as
electricity prices remain elevated. Meralco’s residential rate rose from P13.1734 per kilowatt-hour in February to P14.4833 in June, an increase of nearly 10 percent. The utility cited factors including transmission charges, tight Luzon supply, higher spot-market and fuel prices, and peso depreciation. Ember estimated that Philippine rooftop solar capacity had reached about 1,300 MW by early 2026 and projected that distributed capacity could approach 3,500 MW within two years. It also estimated that a residential system’s payback period had fallen to 3.1 years, although actual savings depend on system cost, financing, roof conditions and electricity use. The Department of Energy has shortened processing
times for net-metering applications. Distribution utilities and electric cooperatives must process complete applications within 10 working days. Qualified customers with renewable-energy systems of up to 100 kilowatts may receive credits for excess electricity delivered to the grid. The credits are based on the utility’s blended generation cost, not the full retail rate. Financing remains a barrier. Access remains uneven because most households must still finance the full installation cost. GSIS has allocated P12.5 billion for loans of up to P500,000 at 5 percent annual interest over five years for qualified government employees. The government targets a 35 percent renewable-energy share by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040. n
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N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S E Y J U LY 3 , 2 0 26
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people events arts culture entertainment
Billy Crawford wins Season 9 of France’s ‘Mask Singer’
Filipino singer and television host was revealed as L’Âne after performing Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” in the finale by AJPress Filipino singer, dancer and television host Billy Crawford won the ninth season of France’s Mask Singer, adding another French television title to a career that has moved between European pop music and Philippine broadcasting. Crawford was revealed as L’Âne, or The Donkey, during the TF1 finale on June 27. He performed Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” before being named the season winner and removing the character’s mask. French singer Carla Lazzari, who competed as Le Poussin, finished second, while singer Anisha Jo, appearing as Le Bouquet, placed third. The program, hosted by Camille Combal, follows the international Masked Singer format in which celebrities perform in costume while panelists and viewers try to identify them. After the finale, Crawford thanked the production and costume teams, the audience and his family. He said the
donkey character carried personal meaning because he chose it with his son, Amari, in mind. The victory was Crawford’s second on a French television competition. In 2022, he and professional dancer Fauve Hautot won the 12th season of Danse avec les stars, France’s version of Dancing with the Stars. His success on French television extends a relationship with the country that began during his recording career in the early 2000s. Songs including “Trackin’,” “When You Think About Me,” “You Didn’t Expect That” and “Me passer de toi” helped establish him with French audiences. In 2003, the NRJ Music Awards named him international male artist of the year. Crawford later became a familiar television presence in the Philippines as a host and performer. He also had prior experience with the franchise, having hosted Masked Singer Pilipinas when the Philippine adaptation premiered on TV5
Christian Bables says LGBTQ+ roles have not limited his choices
The award-winning actor, who portrays twin brothers in “Drags to Riches,” says he is no longer troubled by typecasting or recurring questions about his sexuality. by AJPress MANILA — Christian Bables said he is no longer troubled by concerns that portraying LGBTQ+ characters could typecast him as he takes on another drag role in the comedy “Drags to Riches.” During a promotional event for the film in Quezon City, Bables said one reason he continues to accept such characters is the opportunity to make audiences laugh. He also said he has become less affected by questions about his sexuality arising from the roles he plays. Bables became widely known for playing Barbs, the loyal friend of Paolo Ballesteros’ character, in the 2016
film “Die Beautiful.” The performance earned him the Metro Manila Film Festival award for best supporting actor. He later won best actor at the Hanoi International Film Festival for “Signal Rock” and at the 2021 Metro Manila Film Festival for “Big Night!” His other projects involving LGBTQ+ characters include “The Panti Sisters,” “Mahal Kita, Beksman,” “Drag You and Me” and “Broken Hearts Trip.” His work outside those roles includes “Signal Rock,” “Dirty Linen” and “Saving Grace.” In interviews, Bables has identified himself as straight and described himself as an LGBTQ+ ally. That description
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Photo from Instagram/@tf1
in 2020. His appearance in France placed him in a different role. Rather than guiding viewers through the identities of masked performers, he spent the season competing anonymously inside one of the
show’s elaborate costumes. The result brought together two phases of Crawford’s career: his early success as a recording artist in France and his later work as a television performer in both France and the Philippines. n
Benjie Paras says son Kobe is stepping away from basketball
The former PBA star disclosed his son’s decision in an interview with columnist Dolly Anne Carvajal. Kobe Paras has not issued a public retirement announcement. by AJPress MANILA — Kobe Paras no longer wants to continue playing basketball, according to his father, former Philippine Basketball Association star Benjie Paras. Benjie disclosed his son’s decision during an interview with entertainment columnist
Dolly Anne Carvajal for her Dollywood PH YouTube channel. “Pahinga na. Ayaw na niyang mag-basketball,” Benjie said, explaining that Kobe was taking a break and no longer wanted to play. Benjie said he felt some regret that his son would not follow him into the PBA but
would not pressure his children to pursue careers they did not want. He said Kobe had already tried professional basketball and that he supported his decision. The remarks are the clearest public account to date that Kobe, 28, has stepped away from competitive basketball. Kobe himself, however, has
not issued a public statement formally announcing his retirement. The development is therefore attributed to his father rather than presented as a retirement declaration by Kobe. Kobe last played professionally for Altiri Chiba in Japan’s second-division B.League du-
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Photo from Instagram/@christiaaan06
12 JULY 3 - JULY 9, 2026 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
Anne Curtis looks to Cannes as she enters a more selective career phase The actor said he had tried to keep family matters private. Iñigo Jose earlier said relatives should address their differences among themselves.
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DOT turns to P-pop for tourism campaign BINI is expected to be one of two ambassador groups; local media have identified SB19 as the second, although the department has not publicly confirmed the name
by AJPress MANILA — After nearly three decades in Philippine entertainment, Anne Curtis says she is approaching her next chapter with greater selectivity—and with one enduring ambition: to attend the Cannes Film Festival because of a film she helped bring to the screen. Curtis discussed the goal during a recent media gathering marking her 29th year in show business. She said she would be willing to wait for the right project, even if the opportunity came much later in life. Her remarks were aspirational. Curtis did not announce a Cannes submission, invitation or festival selection, nor did she identify any current project as being considered for the event. At this stage of her career, Curtis said she has become more deliberate about accepting roles. She prefers to review complete scripts before committing and is seeking material that allows her to explore different genres and characters. Her most firmly announced film is Remote, a Manila-set paranoia thriller directed by Mikhail Red. Curtis is attached to play a journalist investigating killings that may be linked
Department of Tourism (DoT) teams up with TikTok Philippines to harness local content creators in promoting domestic travel Photo from Facebook/@BWorldPH
by AJPress
Photo from Facebook/@official.AnneCurtis
to an international outsourcing company. Evolve Studios and Viva Films are producing the project; no release date has been announced. Curtis has also discussed a possible reunion with No Other Woman director Ruel S. Bayani, though the project remains untitled. Another possible collaboration with Irene Villamor is still in the early discussion stage. She is also set to return as former police officer Nina Manigan in Netflix’s BuyBust:
The Undesirables, co-starring Gerald Anderson. Netflix has listed the series for 2026 but has not announced a premiere date. The developing slate reflects her renewed emphasis on film and carefully chosen work. Cannes remains a longterm goal, not a confirmed destination. For Curtis, the ambition is less about appearing on the red carpet than earning her way there through a film. n
Benjie Paras says son Kobe is... PAGE 11 ring the 2022-23 season. The club announced on March 3, 2023, that it had ended his contract by mutual agreement after discussions between the two sides. The 6-foot-6 forward previously played for Niigata Albirex BB in Japan’s top division. Before turning professional, he spent the 2016-17 season at Creighton University and later played for the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons during the 2019 UAAP season. Paras also represented the Philippines in international competition. FIBA records show that he played in the 2014 Asian under-18 championship and appeared in two senior national-team games during the 2021 Asia Cup qu-
Photo from Facebook/@cornerstoneofficial
alifiers. Speculation about a possible return continued after his departure from Japan. Paras did not join the list of applicants for the PBA Season 50 draft in August 2025.
Benjie said Kobe had shifted his attention toward business. Kobe’s decision to step away from basketball rests on his father’s account, as he has not publicly addressed his playing future. n
MANILA — The Department of Tourism plans to enlist two P-pop groups as Philippine tourism ambassadors, turning to the growing international reach of Filipino music as part of its effort to promote the country to travelers at home and abroad. BINI is expected to be one of the two groups. Local Philippine media reports have identified SB19 as the second, but the DOT had not publicly confirmed that name as of Monday, June 29. Tourism Secretary Ma. Bernadita “Dita” Angara-Mathay said the department wants to combine music and imagery to create what she described as a feeling that stays with audiences. “Music is very important,” Angara-Mathay said, explaining that sound can strengthen the emotional effect of visual material. The department has not yet issued a complete announcement identifying both groups or setting out their responsibilities, the duration of their appointments and the activities they would undertake. The plan follows earlier discussions between the DOT and BINI’s representatives.
In early June, the department said it had reached out to the group’s camp about a possible tourism ambassador role but that no formal appointment had been announced. BINI’s international profile grew further in April when the eight-member group performed at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California. The appearance drew renewed calls in the Philippines for the group to be given an official role in promoting the country. The group is composed of Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna and Sheena. SB19, composed of Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken and Justin, has also expanded its international presence through overseas concerts and festival appearances. The group is scheduled to perform at Lollapalooza in Chicago, which will be held from July 30 through Aug. 2 at Grant Park. The planned appointments would give the tourism department access to the groups’ large and active fan communities, including audiences outside the Philippines. Their music, performances and digital platforms could provide the government with another way to draw attention to Philippine
destinations, food, cultural traditions and local experiences. The approach reflects the increasing use of popular entertainment in tourism promotion. Music and other forms of contemporary culture can introduce audiences to a country before they encounter conventional advertising about its destinations. BINI and SB19 have also helped raise the international visibility of P-pop, a term broadly used for contemporary Filipino popular music influenced by local and global styles. The DOT has not released projections showing what effect the proposed partnerships could have on visitor arrivals or tourism spending. Any measurable impact would depend on the campaign’s content, reach and ability to direct public interest toward destinations and tourism-related businesses. Further details are expected when the department formally announces the ambassadors and their assignments. Until then, BINI’s anticipated participation is the clearest element of the plan, while the identification of SB19 remains based on local media reporting rather than public confirmation from the DOT. n
James Blanco says son’s disclosure of marital separation caused him pain The actor said he had tried to keep family matters private. Iñigo Jose earlier said relatives should address their differences among themselves. by AJPress MANILA — Actor James Blanco said he was hurt when
his son, Iñigo Jose, discussed his parents’ separation on “Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0.”
Blanco addressed the disclosure during the June 26 episode of GMA’s “Fast Talk
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Mandaluyong court orders Anjo Yllana to Ian and Matet de Leon reopen pay P3.5 million to TVJ Productions communication after public family dispute
Civil ruling restricts republication of statements covered by the case; court says it did not determine whether the underlying allegations were true or false
The siblings’ exchange follows disagreements involving Nora Aunor’s estate and projects established in her name, although neither has confirmed a full reconciliation.
(From right) Anjo Yllana and Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon Image: Facebook/ eatbulagatvjofficial; YT/Fast Talk with Boy Abunda
by AJPress MANILA — A Mandaluyong City court has ordered former television host Anjo Yllana to pay P3.5 million to TVJ Productions Inc. after granting the company’s request for a permanent injunction over statements he made on social media. In an 18-page decision dated June 29, Regional Trial Court Branch 279 Presiding Judge Gloria Monica S. Lopez ruled for TVJ Productions in its civil action for injunction and damages. The injunction prohibits Yllana, his representatives and others acting on his behalf from publishing, broadcasting, sharing, distributing or re-uploading on TikTok or other digital platforms statements covered by the ruling that damage the goodwill and reputation of TVJ Productions and its noontime program, Eat Bulaga.
The restriction is not a blanket prohibition against Yllana discussing the company, the program or its hosts. The court said it applies only to expressions that directly prejudice the established goodwill or brand equity of Eat Bulaga. Reports quoting the decision said the injunction is enforceable within the National Capital Region. The court awarded TVJ Productions P1 million each in temperate, moral and exemplary damages, plus P500,000 in attorney’s fees and litigation expenses. The awards will carry legal interest of 6 percent a year from the time the judgment becomes final until fully paid. The case arose from videos and livestreams posted in 2025 in which Yllana discussed TVJ Productions, Eat Bulaga and personalities associated with the program. TVJ Productions alleged that the statements harmed its reputation and commercial
goodwill. The court said the statements were publicly disseminated in reckless disregard of whether they were true or false and were calculated to tarnish the goodwill of the company, the program and its personalities. The ruling, however, stated that the court was not determining whether Yllana’s allegations were true or false. It considered whether TVJ Productions was entitled to an injunction and civil damages. The case did not involve criminal liability. TVJ Productions welcomed the ruling, describing it as a vindication of Eat Bulaga, its hosts and management. Tito Sotto, one of the company’s principals, said the decision showed that the Philippine justice system works. Yllana hosted Eat Bulaga from 1998 to 2020. The ruling remains subject to post-judgment remedies and appellate review. n
James Blanco says son’s disclosure... PAGE 12 With Boy Abunda.” “Masakit para sa akin,” Blanco said, explaining that people outside the family might not understand its circumstances. He said he had kept personal life separate from his work and had asked Iñigo to do the same. Blanco said he and Iñigo had not discussed the disclosure. During a December 2025 episode of “Pinoy Big Brother,” Iñigo spoke about how his parents’ separation affected him and the difficulty of accepting the change after view-
ing his family as stable. Neither father nor son has explained what led to the separation. In March, Blanco said he had not communicated with his children for several months and described the loss of contact as painful. Iñigo said he did not want to discuss the situation before the family had spoken privately. “I want to keep it a private matter,” he said, citing respect for his mother and relatives. Blanco and his wife, Tania Creighton-Castillo, have three
De Leon Siblings
by AJPress WITH more than six decMANILA — Actors Ian de Leon and Matet de Leon appear to have reopened communication after weeks of public disagreement involving their late mother, National Artist Nora Aunor. Ian publicly thanked Matet for what he described as a “wonderful conversation” in a Facebook post on Tuesday, June 30. “Thank you so much for the wonderful conversation! God bless us and our family!” he wrote on the IDL Arts and Paintings page, tagging his sister. He did not disclose what they discussed. A day earlier, Matet shared a childhood photograph showing her with Ian, their sister Lotlot de Leon and Aunor. “We miss you Ma,” she wrote.
The posts raised hopes that the siblings may be moving toward reconciliation. Neither Ian nor Matet, however, has publicly said that they have fully reconciled or that their differences have been resolved. Their exchange followed a series of statements concerning Aunor’s estate and initiatives created in her name. In a June 19 interview on “Fast Talk With Boy Abunda,” Ian said he had established a one-person corporation to provide a structure for the Nora Aunor Enterprise and the Nora Aunor Foundation. He said he wanted his siblings involved and believed their disagreements could eventually be settled. Matet later disputed portions of Ian’s account. In a Facebook post, she said his
Image: Instagram/@ms.lotlotdeleon
statements reflected his version of events and rejected the suggestion that she and her siblings were trying to take their mother’s property. She also challenged his description of discussions involving the family. Lotlot separately said she was not seeking an inheritance and disputed parts of Ian’s public account. The siblings have offered differing accounts of whether they were consulted and how organizations bearing Aunor’s name were established. The siblings’ differing accounts leave questions about the estate and the organizations bearing Aunor’s name unresolved. Aunor died on April 16, 2025, at age 71. She was named National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts in 2022 after a career spanning film, television and music.. n
Christian Bables says LGBTQ+... PAGE 11
Photo from Instagram/@ jamesblancocastillo
children: Iñigo, Sebastian and Natalia. Iñigo is represented by Star Magic. n
rests on his public statements; fictional characters do not establish anything about an actor’s private life. Bables has also addressed questions about heterosexual actors portraying LGBTQ+ characters. He has said he approaches such roles as an actor and ally seeking to help tell stories involving the community.
In “Drags to Riches,” Bables portrays twin brothers with sharply different lives: Jarold, from a corporate family, and Jonas, a drag performer recruited to take his missing brother’s place. Iñigo Pascual plays Troye and Elijah Canlas portrays Andre, who help transform Jonas into a convincing stand-in for Jarold. K Brosas and Benjie Paras are also in the cast.
Directed by Victor Villanueva and produced by Cornerstone Studios, “Drags to Riches” opened June 24 at SM Cinemas. The film is rated R-13 and runs about one hour and 50 minutes. Bables has presented the role as another acting choice shaped by the character, the material and the chance to connect with audiences, rather than a limitation. n
14 JULY 3 - JULY 9, 2026 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
Health @Heart Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS The Ebola virus, especially the Bundibugyo strain, the current variant in the active outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda in Central Africa, is a serious killer. As of June 21, 2026, there were almost a thousand cases and at least 250 deaths from this Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak. This rare strain has a fatality rate between 25 percent and 90 percent, compared to the SARS-CoV-2 virus of COVID-19 fatality rate of 0.5 percent to 1 percent. While Ebola is vastly more deadly than COVID, which is more rapidly transmitted than Ebola, this outbreak is primarily contained in sub-Saharan Africa, while the highly infectious COVID-19 has devastated 229 countries and territories around the globe. There were 704.7 million cases of confirmed COVID-19 and 7.1 million deaths, but the WHO estimated the actual toll to be between 15 and 30 million worldwide due to “indirect and unrecorded excess mortality.” Ebola instills a greater fear among people because of its high fatality rate, and the fact that there is currently no vaccine against the Bundibugyo virus. This, once again, highlights the life-saving value of vaccines, which three anti-vax radio hosts in the United States had minimized and declared useless and dangerous during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, until they themselves were all infected and died of COVID-19. On their deathbed, they were apologizing to the millions of their audience, admonishing them to get vaccinated. Their misguided anti-vax stand and pronouncements had surely caused countless COVID infections and deaths. Misinformation could, indeed, be deadly, deadlier than the virus itself. While there is no confirmed Ebola within the United States and in the Philippines as of this writing, we have to be well-informed and vigilant nonetheless, especially about travel to those cities affected by the outbreak. RPT: “Federal health agencies have established proactive monitoring and travel restrictions. For example, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and
Ebola versus COVID the CDC have restricted the entry of non-citizens and lawful permanent residents who have been in areas with active outbreaks—such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) or Uganda—within the last 21 days.” The current globally available vaccines like Ervebo (Merck) and Zabdeno/Mvabea (Johnson & Johnson) are uniquely designed for the more common Zaire ebolavirus species, responsible for the Ebola outbreak in 20142016, the largest in history, where 11,325 died among the 28,646 cases, a case fatality rate of 39.5 percent. RPT: ‘Health authorities and scientists are fast-tracking new tools to combat the Bundibugyo outbreak: rVSV Platform Candidate: The World Health Organization (WHO) considers a new single-dose shot using the same platform as Ervebo to be the most promising candidate. Moderna mRNA Vaccine: Development is underway on an mRNA-based candidate targeting the surface proteins of the Bundibugyo virus. Timeline: The Africa CDC estimates that a targeted vaccine could be ready for human clinical trials in the affected regions toward the end of 2026. There is no question that vaccines will help contain this outbreak and save lives. Because there is no vaccine or specific antiviral cure for this strain, medical teams on the ground are relying strictly on aggressive supportive care—such as fluid replacement—to lower mortality rates, alongside standard isolation and contact-tracing protocols.” Hopefully, the Ebola virus could be contained where it is endemic right now and not become another pandemic. If Ebola invades our shores, God forbid, I pray that we (our government and our people) would not sacrifice medical science in favor of civil rights and behave as unwisely and irresponsibly as many of us did during the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to the devastating death rates. Creatine: safe? Use of the creatine supplement appears to be trending. Creatine is a natural compound made from amino acids (building blocks of protein) that supplies energy to body cells. About 95 percent of the body’s creatine is stored in skeletal muscles to
fuel high-intensity physical activities. The rest is in the brain, liver, kidneys, and other tissues. The body naturally produces about half of the daily creatine needs in the liver and kidneys, and the other half comes from animal-based foods like red meat and fish. Creatine enhances athletic performance, improves muscle recovery, reduces muscle damage, provides bone support, increases anabolic hormones, and also benefits cognitive function. Creatine is considered generally safe and is sold as an over-the-counter drug. It comes in powder, chewables, and pills. The popular Collagen Peptides (Amino acid) supplement does not contain creatine. Since creatine supplements have potential adverse side effects, do not take them without first consulting your physician. Caution: Dental implant Dental implants are highly advertised, confusingly suggesting it is the best solution for missing or damaged teeth. In this era of tissue preservation in all forms of surgical management, preserving teeth as long as possible is naturally best. Removing teeth and doing dental implants without considering other simpler and safer solutions is reckless, because dental implants have potentially severe, even life-threatening, complications. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically made of titanium, that are surgically drilled into the jawbone. Since our mouth is full of bacteria, the potential complications include infection of the gums and the bones, nerve injury with numbness and tingling, maxillary sinus (behind the nose) perforation for upper jaw implants, causing cavernous sinus thrombosis in the brain area, and mechanical issues like loose or fractured screws. The cost of a dental implant per tooth is about $1100 to $2300 in the Philippines and ranges between $3,000 and $6000 in the United States, prompting Americans to travel to Cebu or Manila for dental implants, especially for multiple teeth. The savings more than cover the expenses for airfare, hotel, food, Grab (Uber, Lyft, inDrive), and, plus a bonus, a vacation in pristine beach resorts. The rate of infection in dental implants ranges between
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Filipinnovation Forum Opens Tech Pathways for Filipinos in New York by AJPress NEW YORK, 25 June 2026 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York, in partnership with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in New York, hosted a forum on “The Tech Path Through Filipinnovation” at the Philippine Center in New York. In his welcome remarks, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile highlighted the Filipinnovation series as a platform for young Filipino and Filipino-American professionals to network, exchange ideas, and build possible collaborations. He noted the relevance of the forum’s focus on technology careers amid the continued growth of the U.S. tech industry, and encouraged participants to engage with the speakers and one another, as one conversation could lead to new insights, partnerships, or ideas. Mr. Dominic Penaloza, CEO and Co-Founder of Sync AI Technologies, Inc., then delivered a keynote message on how individuals can better adapt to the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) by becoming active practitioners and builders of AIbased solutions. To illustrate the accessibility of AI-driven innovation, his 15-year old daughter, Dominique Penaloza, introduced her own AI startup, which aims to support teenagers who have experienced bullying through an anti-bullying AI coach and journal. Following the keynote address, the forum transitioned into a panel discussion moderated by Mr. Josuard Gonzales, Founder of The Power House NYC. The panel featured Mr. Miguel Guerrero, Founder and CEO of Otis AI, Mr. Jason Malefakis, Founder and CEO of Wayo, and Ms. Erica Hanson, Founder of Coffee & 5 and 10 percent, which is medically too high. Severe bone degradation affects 10 to 20 percent of patients in the long term. Death from a dental implant is rare. While most of the dental implants are successful, it is not as simple and safe as bridges, dental veneers, etc. Since severe complications are possible, discuss all the details and ramifications with your oral surgeon before agreeing to have dental implants.
The panelists shared their professional journeys and personal experiences in shaping their careers, and their advice for young professionals and career shifters who want to enter or grow in the technology sector during the panel discussion of “The Tech Path Through Filipinnovation.” Photo by Sherlyn Roxas
Career Transitions NYC. The panelists, as well as Mr. Penaloza, shared their professional journeys and personal experiences in shaping their careers, and their advice for young professionals and career shifters who want to enter or grow in the technology sector. Following the panel discussion, a breakout session took place moderated by Mr. Gonzales and Ms. Paula Arnedo, Vice President of Samuel A. Ramirez & Co., Inc. giving participants an opportunity to connect with the panellists and with each other. Trade Commissioner Alma F. Argayoso delivered the fi-
nal remarks and presented the Philippines as a potential partner in smart and sustainable industries, including IT-BPM, creative services, and the semiconductor and electronics sectors, among others. She also provided an overview of the Philippine Startup Ecosystem and invited participants to take part in Philippine Startup Week in November 2026. The forum marked another milestone in the Filipinnovation series, now on its ninth installment. The series continues to celebrate Filipino creativity and leadership across industries while inspiring the next generation of innovators. n
Mr. Dominic Penaloza shared the stage with his daughter, Dominique Penaloza, during his keynote speech. Photos by Sherlyn Roxas
*** 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. *** 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 n
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Crafting a Niche in the American Food and Furniture Landscape My P.E.P. (People, Events,Places)
Rogelio Constantino Medina The Philippines is strengthening its presence in the American market by showcasing its agricultural heritage, design expertise and sustainable products at major U.S. trade shows. Led by the Department of Trade and Industry’s Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the effort uses the FOODPhilippines and DESIGNPhilippines banners to position the country as a sourcing destination for specialty foods and high-value home furnishings. The broader goal is to expand exports while supporting local producers, designers and micro, small and medium enterprises. CITEM joined two major American events in 2025: the 49th Winter Fancy Food Show in Las Vegas in January and the High Point Market in North Carolina in April. Participation in the 2025 Winter Fancy Food Show The United States is a major destination for Philippine food exports. Coconut oil, pineapple products and processed foods are among the leading categories, while processed tropical fruits and dairy products also contribute to trade. Overall, the United States was the Philippines’ top export market in 2024, receiving about $12.14 billion in food and nonfood goods. CITEM organized the Philippine delegation to the Winter Fancy Food Show as the country returned to the event after the pandemic. The show was one of the largest U.S. trade events devoted to specialty foods and beverages, bringing together manufacturers, distributors, importers and buyers from around the world. The Philippine presentation focused on gourmet and specialty foods, beverages and ingredients suited to the North American market. Products included coconut water, coconut sugar and other natural, organic and functional food items aimed at health-conscious consumers. The Philippines occupied 108 square meters of exhibition space. Fifteen Philippine MSMEs participated under the FOODPhilippines banner, with targeted export sales of US$27.04 million. The delegation sought to strengthen mar-
ket visibility and take advantage of demand for healthy, convenient products and authentic international flavors. The event also promoted IFEX Philippines, the country’s largest business-to-business and export-oriented trade show for food, beverages and ingredients. Its 19th edition was held from May 21 to 23, 2026. According to CITEM, Philippine exhibitors generated business discussions and promising leads, including interest from distributors seeking to place products in major U.S. retail chains such as Costco and Walmart. The participation also reinforced the Philippines’ position as a supplier of distinctive, high-quality ingredients aligned with consumer demand for culinary diversity and natural products. The Winter Fancy Food Show began in 1959 as an expansion of the original Fancy Food Show, which started in New York City in 1954. The Specialty Food Association held the Las Vegas event annually until 2025, when it staged the final edition under that name. The event was later rebranded as Winter FancyFaire, which debuted in San Diego in January 2026. Participation in the High Point Market CITEM’s participation in the April 2025 High Point Market marked the Philippines’ return to the event after a 17-year absence. The mission, presented under the DESIGNPhilippines banner, was part of the agency’s effort to expand the country’s share in key international markets. High Point Market is widely regarded as the world’s largest home-furnishings trade show. It draws buyers, manufacturers, designers and industry professionals and features residential and commercial furniture, rugs, carpets, lighting, textiles, bedding, decorative accessories and outdoor furnishings. CITEM organized an outbound business mission and benchmarking activities to promote Philippine design and craftsmanship. The delegation showcased furniture, home accessories and lighting while seeking to connect local producers with international buyers. Ten Philippine companies participated, presenting products made from sustainable and indigenous materials, including rattan, abaca and reconstituted stone. Business-matching activities helped Philippine man-
ufacturers and designers build relationships in the U.S. home décor and furnishings market, where Filipino products are recognized for craftsmanship, durability and detailed design. CITEM returned to the High Point Market in 2026, giving participating companies another opportunity to study new design directions, material innovations and consumer preferences and to refine products for the global market. The United States remains an important market for Philippine furniture and furnishings because of steady demand and favorable trade opportunities. Opportunities in the American market CITEM’s continued participation in major U.S. trade shows offers several advantages for Philippine companies. These include stronger export demand, wider market access, direct contact with buyers and distributors and deeper insight into consumer and design trends. The events also provide Philippine MSMEs with platforms to present natural food products made from coconut, mango and calamansi, as well as furniture and home accessories that highlight local materials and design capabilities. By maintaining a presence at the Winter Fancy Food Show, Winter FancyFaire and High Point Market, the Philippines can strengthen recognition of its products in North America and build longer-term commercial relationships. The initiatives have produced business leads and supported efforts to position the country as a source of authentic, high-value and design-forward goods. They also connect local enterprises with international partners and reinforce the Philippines’ reputation as a dependable sourcing destination for quality specialty products. Sustained participation will be essential to converting initial contacts into durable export contracts. CITEM’s trade-show strategy reflects the government’s broader aim of building an innovation-driven economy, expanding exports and creating more opportunities for Philippine producers and creative industries.. *** 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. *** rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com n
Mekeni was one of the Philippine participants in the WWF Show 2025 in Las Vegas.
High Point Mayor Cyril Jefferson (2nd from left) graced the opening of the Design Philippines showroom together with Philippine Embassy Minister Hans Siriban (2nd from right), CITEM Creative Consultant Tony Gonzales (1st from right) and PTIC Commercial Counsellor Kenneth Yap (1st from left) at the 2026 High Point Spring Market in North Carolina.
First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos with CITEM Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo (extreme right) explores the 2026 IFEX Philippines' exhibition floor at World Trade Center -- discovering curated MSME showcases that feature regional flavors, unique products, and export-quality innovations proudly crafted for the global market.
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