072222 - Northern California Edition

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NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Volume 21 - No. 29 • 14 Pages

T HE F ILIPINO A MERICAN C OMMUNITY N EWSPAPER

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DATELINE Boost now or wait? Many wonder how best to ride out COVID’s next wave FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

GWYNETH Paige didn’t want to get vaccinated against COVID-19 at first. With her health issues — hypertension, fibromyalgia, asthma — she wanted to see how other people fared after the shots. Then her mother got colon cancer. “At that point, I didn’t care if the vaccine killed me,” she said. “To be with my mother throughout her journey, I had to have the vaccination.” Paige, who is 56 and lives in Detroit, has received three doses. That leaves her one booster short of federal health recommendations. Like Paige, who said she doesn’t currently plan to get another booster, some Americans seem comfortable with the protection of three shots. But others may wonder what to do: Boost again now with one of the original vaccines, or wait months for promised new formulations tailored to the latest, highly contagious omicron subvariants, BA.4 and BA.5?

JULY 22-25, 2022

Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, SAN DIEGO, LAS VEGAS, NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY

Most Filipinos trust results of May elections – Pulse Asia by PIA LEE-BRAGO Philstar.com

MANILA — Most Filipino adults trust that the results of the May 2022 elections are accurate and credible, according to a Pulse Asia survey released

on Monday, July 18. During a virtual forum, Pulse Asia Research president Ronald Holmes presented the results of the survey on the Filipino voter’s perception of the conduct and legitimacy of the 2022 national elections commissioned by Stratbase ADR Institute.

LOS ANGELES — Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Joseph Marcos Manotoc is encouraging Filipino American professionals, especially his fellow Ilocanos, to move back to the Philippines to help in the realization of the province’s goal to become the commercial hub of Northern Philippines and eventually turn it into the gateway to East Asia. In a recent meet and greet event on July 12, organized by U.S. supporters at Noypitz Bar & Grill in Cerritos, Manotoc said the main reason for his California visit is to “hire” talented Fil-Ams who are willing to work with him to accomplish his future endeavors for the province. “We are working towards becoming the commercial hub of Northern Philippines and the gateway to East Asia. One of the hopeful purposes, why I am here, to be honest, is to invite you back to Ilocos Norte,” he said. He said he would definitely need the

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Marcos invites Filipinos to listen to first SONA by ALEXIS

ROMERO Philstar.com

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Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Manotoc meets with SoCal Fil-Am supporters

Holmes said the nationwide survey was conducted from June 24 to 27 using face-to-face interviews based on a sample of 1,200 representative adults 18 years old and above. The survey found that 82 percent of

VOTER SIGNUP. People wait for their turn to register at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) satellite registration center inside the SM City Dasmariñas in Cavite on Wednesday, July 20. The Comelec has resumed voter registration from July 4 until July 23, Mondays to Saturdays, including holidays. PNA photo by Gil S. Calinga

MANILA — President Marcos has invited Filipinos to listen to his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 25, where he will discuss his key policies and priorities as the country’s 17th Chief Executive. “Nalalapit na ang ating pinaka-unang State of the Nation Address (Our first SONA is approaching),” Marcos said in a Facebook post published last Sunday, July 17. “Samahan niyo po ako at pakinggan ang estado ng ating bansa at ang mga plano at mithiin natin bilang isang sambayanan para sa mga susunod na taon (Join me and listen as I talk about the state of our country and our plans and aspirations as a nation in the succeeding years),” he added. Marcos’ first SONA will be held more than three weeks after he assumed office and on the same day that the 19th Congress will formally open session. He is expected to enumerate his priority bills and to ask Congress to pass measures that will help his administration carry out its programs. The President will also present the details of the government’s medium-term fiscal framework,

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US House agrees to block aid to PNP until PH meets basic human rights standards by XAVE

GREGORIO Philstar.com

MANILA — The House of Representatives of the United States has agreed on an amendment to a defense spending measure blocking aid, including equipment and training, to the Philippine National Police until the Philippines is deemed to have met basic human rights standards. The amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act for 2023, introduced by Rep. Susan Wild (D-Pennsylvania)

and adopted by the U.S. House through a voice vote, provides that no funding will be made available to the State Department for assistance to the PNP until the Secretary of State certifies that the Philippines has: • Investigated and successfully prosecuted police who violated human rights, ensured that they cooperated with judicial authorities in such cases, and affirmed that such violations have ceased • Established that the Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. National Police effectively protects the

Inquirer.net photo

Marcos to be consulted Boracay, Palawan and Cebu hailed as world’s best islands on ICC drug war probe DOT celebrates back-to-back accolades for PH destinations  PAGE 4

by MOMAR

G. VISAYA

AJPress

Boracay Island

Inquirer.net file photo

THE Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) applauded the naming of the country’s three island destinations among “The 25 Best Islands in the World” of the New York-based travel magazine Travel + Leisure (T+L). Boracay Island — featuring its postcard perfect sunset — ranked 9th in the T+L World’s Best Island list, followed by the Palawan at 11th with a photo of an idyllic lagoon in El Nido, and Cebu at 16th with Taoist Temple, in Cebu City. According to T+L, readers

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were asked to “weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value.” “The Philippines is truly blessed with the unrivaled beauty of our natural resources coupled by the warmth and endless talent of the Filipinos manifested in this citation of Travel + Leisure that included our Cebu, Palawan, and Boracay in their prestigious list,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said.

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by MARLON

RAMOS, MELVIN GASCON Inquirer.net

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will have to be consulted regarding the request of the International Criminal Court (ICC) for the Philippines to comment on ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan’s move to resume the investigation into former President Rodrigo Duterte’s violent war on drugs, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said on Monday, July 18. “There are state sovereignty issues involved. We need to cover

those points, first and foremost,” Guevarra told reporters via Viber. “[The president] has not had the occasion to discuss the ICC case thoroughly with anyone. But I intend to consult with him about it very soon,” he said. Guevarra, the justice secretary during the Duterte administration, said the Office of the Solicitor General was already studying several legal options in dealing with the ICC probe. The Philippine government,

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JULY 22-28, 2022 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

From the Front Page

US House agrees to block aid to PNP until... PAGE A1 rights of trade unionists, journalists, human rights defenders, government critics, religious leaders and other civil society activists to operate without interference • Taken effective steps to guarantee a judicial system that is capable of investigating, prosecuting and bringing to justice members of the police and military who have committed human rights abuses • Fully complied with domestic and US audits and investigations regarding the improper use of prior security assistance “The time is long overdue to begin putting some basic human rights guardrails in place in the United StatesPhilippines relationship,” Wild said in her remarks on the House floor. She said that those who oppose her proposal would raise the U.S.’ national security

interests against China, but she countered that there is a need to maintain credibility on human rights issues. “The need to counter the Chinese regime’s authoritarianism on the international stage is precisely why it’s so important that we maintain our credibility on human rights. It is why it is so vital that we do not undermine our own case for democracy and open ourselves up to charges of hypocrisy by supporting brutal regimes out of short-term expediency,” she said. Wild’s amendment, however, included a waiver that would give the U.S. president leeway to provide the PNP with assistance for up to 180 days provided that: • The foreign affairs panel of the U.S. House and the foreign relations panel of the US Senate is informed not later than 15 days before the effectivity of the waiver • The waiver is vital to the

national security interests of the United States or its partners and allies The amendment to the defense spending bill borrows language from the proposed Philippine Human Rights Act which Wild also introduced in 2020 and refiled the following year. According to the U.S. Embassy, the Philippines is the largest recipient of military assistance from the U.S. in the Indo-Pacific region, having received more than P57 billion worth of planes, armored vehicles, small arms and other military equipment. Defense assistance to the Philippines from the U.S. continues despite adverse findings by the State Department in its latest report on the human rights situation in the country, where it CABLE REPLACEMENT. Meralco Industrial Engineering Services Corporation linemen install new electric cables along Batasan-San Mateo flagged extrajudicial killings, Road in Quezon City on Tuesday, July 19. The Energy Regulatory Commission has directed Meralco to refund distribution-related charges amounting to P21.8 billion or 87 centavos per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for residential customers. PNA photo by Joey O. Razon forced disappearance, torture, arbitrary detention and harsh prison conditions. g

Most Filipinos trust results...

PAGE 1 respondents had “big trust” in the outcome of the national and local elections. Trust is most pronounced in Mindanao as 96 percent of the respondents believed in the result and least manifested in Luzon at 73 percent. Some four percent of Filipino adults expressed distrust on the election results while 14 percent were undecided on the matter.

Among the developments that transpired in the period leading up to the survey period was the proclamation by Congress on May 25 of former senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and their oath-taking last month as the two top officials of the land. Satisfaction with the automated voting system or counting of votes through the

vote counting machines (VCMs) is expressed by 89 percent of Filipino adults. Faster release of electoral results was the most often cited primary benefit of the automation of elections in the country as expressed by 72 percent of the respondents. A huge majority of Filipino adults or 89 percent are in favor of using the automated voting system in future elections. g

Marcos to be consulted on ICC drug...

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he said, may question the jurisdiction of the ICC and the “admissibility of the case” as Duterte and his subordinates had done previously. The solicitor general said the government might also opt to “leave our lines of communication with the ICC open.” He said any decision on the matter will have to be discussed with the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Justice, international law experts, and the Office of the President. PH withdrawal from ICC

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Duterte, himself a lawyer, had claimed that the ICC lost its jurisdiction over him when he announced in March 2018 the Philippines’ withdrawal as a state party to the Rome Statute, the international treaty that created the tribunal. But former ICC Judge Raul Pangalangan, the first Filipino jurist who served in the international tribunal, had maintained that the withdrawal will not protect Duterte from the ICC probe or for him to evade responsibility for the deaths of tens of thousands of alleged

victims of the drug war. Meanwhile, Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa reiterated on Monday that he will not cooperate with the ongoing investigation by the ICC on the killings linked to the government’s war on drugs, insisting it did not have jurisdiction over the Philippines’ “domestic affairs.” In an interview, Dela Rosa maintained that the country’s courts remain operational, and can handle the prosecution of those involved in the “drug war” killings, including former President Duterte and himself. g

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JULY 22-28, 2022

Marcos invites Filipinos to listen to... PAGE 1

which is aimed at cutting the budget deficit, promoting fiscal sustainability and enabling robust economic growth. Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno previously said the framework would be implemented in two stages over the entire term of the President. Among the goals set under the strategy is for the economy to grow by 6.5 to 7.5 percent this year and by 6.5 to 8 percent from 2023 to 2028. The government also aims to reduce poverty incidence to nine percent by the end of Marcos’ term. Former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration managed to bring poverty incidence down from 23.5 percent in 2015 to 16.7 percent before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country, according to Diokno. He said between the first semester of 2018 and the first semester of 2021, poverty incidence rose to 23.7 percent. Economic managers also seek to elevate the country to upper middle-income status, where per capita income for Filipinos is at $4,046 by the end of Marcos’ term. The administration also wants to reduce the debt-to-gross domestic product ratio from 63.5 percent as of the first quarter of 2022 to 60 percent by 2025. Marcos has also vowed to make agriculture his “highest priority,” saying a strong economy cannot be built without a robust agricultural sector. The President, who temporarily heads the agriculture department, has directed the agency to increase food production and to craft a multi-year plan to construct the Philippines’ value chain to address a food crisis that he said may affect the Philippines in the next two quarters. He cited the need to increase the production of rice, corn and livestock while ensuring that their prices remain affordable. Clear roadmap Senators are anticipating the first SONA of Marcos, who they hope will present a clear roadmap on how his administration will address the daunting challenges the country is facing. Sen. JV Ejercito expressed hope that Marcos will detail his plans for the country’s economic recovery and pandemic response in his SONA on Monday, July 25.

“I hope to hear some specifics on the direction he wants to take for the country. His inauguration speech was inspiring, but his SONA needs to flesh out the details of his plan to address the challenges we face,” Ejercito said in a statement. “He needs to come up with a plan that balances the need to protect our people from the current and future pandemic and the urgency of reviving our economy in the face of mounting debt, external pressures and inflation,” he added. The senator said he expects Marcos to discuss a comprehensive economic plan that will go beyond proposals to raise existing taxes and levy new ones. “There have been talks about raising taxes. This cannot be a stand-alone plan; rather, it should be part of a comprehensive economic blueprint that I hope will be discussed in the SONA,” Ejercito said. He also emphasized the need to anchor the country’s pandemic response on the Universal Health Care law, which he principally sponsored during his first term at the Senate. Ejercito recently filed an amendment to the measure, seeking to adjust current PhilHealth contribution schemes. As principal author of the AntiAgricultural Smuggling Act and an advocate for local farmers, Ejercito called on Marcos to elaborate on his plan for food security amid the threat of an impending food crisis. Sen. Nancy Binay said Marcos should also mention how he intends to cushion the effects of rising fuel prices and his economic roadmap for the next six years. Sen. Robin Padilla said he is excited to listen to the SONA, especially now as a senator. Padilla added that he used to attend Duterte’s SONA, but as a “third person.” “I’m excited to what President Marcos will say. Because when we were campaigning, he always said he would continue the good programs of Duterte,” Padilla told reporters in Filipino. He added that he was keen on what Marcos will say about the war on drugs, Build Build Build and agriculture. ‘Proportionately represented’ Allies or partners of the administration party under the supermajority coalition will be

“proportionately represented” when the 19th Congress convenes on July 25, presumptive speaker Martin Romualdez said on Monday, July 18. “We will also go by seniority, merit, experience and, of course, the initiative to make the sacrifice and hard work needed for each of the positions,” Romualdez told reporters in a chance interview. Romualdez, Marcos’ first cousin, is expected to be elected as the speaker on July 25, when the new Chief Executive delivers his first SONA. The reelected first district congressman of Leyte province said that while many members of the 19th Congress are qualified for leadership and committee posts, the House will be guided by “our time-honored traditions of having the respective parties properly represented.” Romualdez served as majority leader in the 18th Congress (July 2019-June 2022). Asked who would be his successor as majority leader, he replied: “We’ll let you know next week. We’ll try to get those who are willing to make the sacrifice of hard work and get a consensus to help us on (legislative) measures.” Also on Monday, the House leader does not see any problem regarding the submission of the proposed national budget for 2023, which he promised to pass before the year ends, just like they as lawmakers always do. “The most important is the 2023 national budget, which we will pass definitely within the third quarter for the President to sign before the year ends. The executive department can submit the proposed budget within 30 days of SONA delivery,” Romualdez said. He also delivered an inspirational message to the third batch of neophyte congressmen who finished the executive course on legislation for members of the 19th Congress at the Belmonte Hall inside the Batasang Pambansa complex in Quezon City. 1,365 guests Meanwhile, more than 1,300 individuals are invited to attend Marcos’ first SONA before the joint session of Congress at the Batasan complex in Quezon City. House of Representatives Secretary General Mark Llandro Mendoza said they have started sending out invitations to 1,365

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9 1 D I COV P E E K S R E T BOOS ! G N O R T S U YO

Get vaccinated against COVID-19 to keep your immunity strong against severe illness & death.

MyTurn.ca.gov

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JULY 22-28, 2022 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

Boost now or wait? Many wonder how... PAGE 1 The rapidly mutating virus has created a conundrum for the public and a communications challenge for health officials. “What we’re seeing now is a little bit of an information void that is not helping people make the right decision,” said Dr. Carlos del Rio, a professor of infectious diseases at the Emory University School of Medicine. Del Rio said the public isn’t hearing enough about the vaccines’ value in preventing severe disease, even if they don’t stop all infections. Each new covid variant also forces health officials to tweak their messaging, del Rio said, which can add to public mistrust. About 70% of Americans age 50 and older who got a first booster shot — and nearly as many of those 65 and older — haven’t received their second covid booster dose, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The agency currently recommends two booster shots after a primary vaccine series for adults 50 and older and for younger people with compromised immune systems. Last week, multiple news

outlets reported that the Biden administration was working on a plan to allow all adults to get second covid boosters. Officials are worried about the surge of BA.4 and BA.5, which spread easily and can escape immune protection from vaccination or prior infection. A recent study published in Nature found BA.5 was four times as resistant to the currently available mRNA vaccines as earlier omicron subvariants. Consistent messaging has been complicated by the different views of leading vaccine scientists. Although physicians like del Rio and Dr. Peter Hotez of Baylor College of Medicine see the value in getting a second booster, Dr. Paul Offit, a member of the FDA’s vaccine advisory committee, is skeptical it’s needed by anyone but seniors and people who are immunocompromised. “When experts have different views based on the same science, why are we surprised that getting the message right is confusing?” said Dr. Bruce Gellin, chief of global public health strategy at the Rockefeller Foundation and Offit’s colleague on the FDA panel. Janet Perrin, 70, of Houston

Dateline USa

hasn’t gotten her second booster for scheduling and convenience reasons and said she’ll look for information about a varianttargeted dose from sources she trusts on social media. “I haven’t found a consistent guiding voice from the CDC,” she said, and the agency’s statements sound like “a political word salad.” On July 12, the Biden administration released its plan to manage the BA.5 subvariant, which it warned would have the greatest impact in the parts of the country with lower vaccine coverage. The strategy includes making it easier for people to access testing, vaccines and boosters, and covid antiviral treatments. During the first White House COVID briefing in nearly three weeks, the message from top federal health officials was clear: Don’t wait for an omicron-tailored shot. “There are many people who are at high risk right now, and waiting until October, November for their boost — when in fact their risk is in the moment — is not a good plan,” said Dr. Rochelle Walensky, head of the CDC. With worries about the BA.5 u PAGE 5

PAUNAWA NG HALALAN AT NG PANAHON PARA SA PAGHAHARAP NG MGA PANGANGATWIRAN PARA O LABAN SA MGA PANUKALA ANG PAUNAWA AY IBINIBIGAY SA PAMAMAGITAN NITO na ang isang pangkalahatang halalan ay gaganapin sa Lungsod ng Brisbane sa Martes, ang ika-8 ng Nobyembre, 2022, para sa mga sumusunod: Upang magbayad para sa mga pangkalahatang gastos na munisipal, dapat bang pagtibayin ang isang ordinansa na nagpapataw sa mga hotel at ibang mga lugar na idinisenyo para sa mga magdamag na pagtigil ng mga bisita ng isang buwis sa lisensiya ng negosyo na $2.50 kada silid para sa bawat araw na ang nasabing silid ay nirerentahan, lilikha ng humigit-kumulang na $250,000 taun-taon hanggang tapusin ng mga botante? Ang mga pangangatwiran para o laban sa mga panukalang nasa itaas ay maaaring isumite nang nakasulat sa Opisina ng Klerk ng Lungsod, 50 Park Place, Brisbane, California, para sa paglilimbag at pamamahagi sa mga botante, alinsunod sa mga tadhana ng Kodigo sa mga Halalan ng California, sa o bago ang 12:00 p.m. sa ika-19 ng Agoto, 2022. Ang mga sagot ng mga may-akda ng mga nasabing pangangatwiran ay maaaring iharap sa Opisina ng Klerk ng Lungsod sa kaparehong paraan sa o bago ang 12:00 p.m. sa ika-19 ng Agosto, 2022. Lahat ng pangangatwirang nauukol sa mga panukalang nasa itaas ay dapat samahan ng sumusunod na form ng pahayag na kailangang pirmahan ng bawat may-akda ng pangangatwiran: Ang nakapirmang (mga) may-akda ng (pangunahin/sagot) na pangangatwirang (panig/laban sa) Panukala __ sa Pangkalahatang Halalan para sa Lungsod ng Brisbane na gaganapin sa ika-8 ng Nobyembre, 2022 ay nagpapahayag sa pamamagitan nita na ang naturang pangangatwiran ay totoo at tama sa abot ng kanilang kaalaman at paniniwala. Pinirmahan: _________________________ Pinetsahan: ____________________________ Walang pangangatwiran na dapat humigit sa 300 salita at walang sagot na dapat humigit sa 250 salita ang haba. Hindi hihigit sa limang pirma ang dapat lumitaw sa alinmang pangangatwiran. Ang isang pangangatwiran sa balota o isang sagot na pangangatwiran na kabilang sa tekto nito ang pangalan ng isang tao, na iba sa (mga) may-akda ng pangangatwiran, na ipinahahayag na panig o laban sa panukala, ay hindi dapat tanggapin maliban kung ang pangangatwiran ay may kasamang pinirmahang pahintulot ng naturang (mga) tao. Ang isang pangangatwirang para, at isang sagot dito, kung meron, sa panukala ay pipiliin para sa paglilimbag at pamamahagi sa mga botante. Kung higit sa isang pangangatwirang para o higit sa isang pangangatwirang laban sa alinmang panukala ng lungsod ang isinumite sa Klerk ng Lungsod sa loob ng itinakdang panahon, dapat pumili ang Klerk ng Lungsod ng isa sa mga pangangatwirang panig at isa mga pangangatwirang laban sa panukala para sa paglilimbag at pamamahagi sa mga botante. Sa pagpili ng pangangatwiran ang Klerk ng Lungsod ay dapat magbigay ng pagtatangi at prayoridad sa pagkakasunod-sunod na tinukoy sa mga pangangatwiran sa mga sumusunod: 1. 2. 3.

Ang pambatasang lupon ng Lungsod, o sinumang miyembro o mga miyembro nito na binigyan ng awtorisasyon ng lupon. Tunay na kapisanan ng mga mamamayan. Mga indibidwal na botante na karapat-dapat bumoto sa panukala.

PAUNAWA NG HALALAN AT NG PANAHON PARA SA PAGHAHARAP NG MGA PANGANGATWIRAN PARA O LABAN SA MGA PANUKALA ANG PAUNAWA AY IBINIBIGAY SA PAMAMAGITAN NITO na ang isang pangkalahatang halalan ay gaganapin sa Lungsod ng Brisbane sa Martes, ang ika-8 ng Nobyembre, 2022, para sa mga sumusunod: Ang panukala ng Lungsod ng Brisbane upang pondohan ang mga serbisyo/mga pasilidad ng lungsod, tulad ng mga patrolya ng pulis sa kapitbahayan, mga serbisyo sa pagpigil sa sunog, proteksyon laban sa napakalaking sunog sa kalunsuran, pagsugpo/imbestigasyon sa krimen, pagkumpuni ng lubak/kalye, mga parke at ibang mga pasilidad ng lungsod, at upang suportahan ang ibang mga serbisyo ng lungsod, sa pamamagitan ng pagpapataw ng buwis sa pagbebenta na ½¢, lilikha ng humigit-kumulang na $2,000,000 taun-taon hanggang tapusin ng mga botante, ay dapat bang pagtibayin? Ang mga pangangatwiran para o laban sa mga panukalang nasa itaas ay maaaring isumite nang nakasulat sa Opisina ng Klerk ng Lungsod, 50 Park Place, Brisbane, California, para sa paglilimbagg at pamamahagi sa mga botante, alinsunod sa mga tadhana ng Kodigo sa mga Halalan ng California, sa o bago ang 12:00 p.m. sa ika-19 ng Agoto, 2022. Ang mga sagot ng mga may-akda ng mga nasabing pangangatwiran ay maaaring iharap sa Opisina ng Klerk ng Lungsod sa kaparehong paraan sa o bago ang 12:00 p.m. sa ika-19 ng Agosto, 2022. Lahat ng pangangatwirang nauukol sa mga panukalang nasa itaas ay dapat samahan ng sumusunod na form ng pahayag na kailangang pirmahan ng bawat may-akda ng pangangatwiran: Ang nakapirmang (mga) may-akda ng (pangunahin/sagot) na pangangatwirang (panig/laban sa) Panukala __ sa Pangkalahatang Halalan para sa Lungsod ng Brisbane na gaganapin sa ika-8 ng Nobyembre, 2022 ay nagpapahayag sa pamamagitan nita na ang naturang pangangatwiran ay totoo at tama sa abot ng kanilang kaalaman at paniniwala. Pinirmahan: _________________________ Pinetsahan: ____________________________ Walang pangangatwiran na dapat humigit sa 300 salita at walang sagot na dapat humigit sa 250 salita ang haba. Hindi hihigit sa limang pirma ang dapat lumitaw sa alinmang pangangatwiran. Ang isang pangangatwiran sa balota o isang sagot na pangangatwiran na kabilang sa tekto nito ang pangalan ng isang tao, na iba sa (mga) may-akda ng pangangatwiran, na ipinahahayag na panig o laban sa panukala, ay hindi dapat tanggapin maliban kung ang pangangatwiran ay may kasamang pinirmahang pahintulot ng naturang (mga) tao. Ang isang pangangatwirang para, at isang sagot dito, kung meron, sa panukala ay pipiliin para sa paglilimbag at pamamahagi sa mga botante. Kung higit sa isang pangangatwirang para o higit sa isang pangangatwirang laban sa alinmang panukala ng lungsod ang isinumite sa Klerk ng Lungsod sa loob ng itinakdang panahon, dapat pumili ang Klerk ng Lungsod ng isa sa mga pangangatwirang panig at isa mga pangangatwirang laban sa panukala para sa paglilimbag at pamamahagi sa mga botante. Sa pagpili ng pangangatwiran ang Klerk ng Lungsod ay dapat magbigay ng pagtatangi at prayoridad sa pagkakasunod-sunod na tinukoy sa mga pangangatwiran sa mga sumusunod: 1. 2. 3.

Ang pambatasang lupon ng Lungsod, o sinumang miyembro o mga miyembro nito na binigyan ng awtorisasyon ng lupon. Tunay na kapisanan ng mga mamamayan. Mga indibidwal na botante na karapat-dapat bumoto sa panukala. Ingrid Padilla, Klerk ng Lungsod Pinetsahan: Ika-18 ng Hulyo, 2022

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Manotoc on Tuesday, July 12 speaks to a crowd of Filipino Americans during a meet and greet event in Cerritos, California.

Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Manotoc meets... PAGE 1

assistance of the bright minds of Ilocos in bringing the vision of greater economic progress to the province during his term. “I know many of you visit (Ilocos Norte) but I do believe that our province poses many opportunities and that I want to discuss tonight of course in terms of agriculture and tourism, our twin powerhouse industries of Ilocos Norte, and also in many other industries such as services, responsible mining, BPOs, many things that we would like to explore and I’m sure in the next six years of the BBM (President “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.) presidency, many of these plans and visions will be realized and I hope to invite you on this journey of development in Ilocos Norte,” Manotoc, the 33-year-old son of Senator Imee Romualdez Marcos and basketball coach Tommy La’O Manotoc, said. He likewise called on the Filipino communities in the United States to contribute to the Philippine economic growth by actively supporting, not only the projects of Ilocos Norte, but also those of the country as a whole. “The opportunities for growth in the Philippines and Southeast Asia are very prime and although we face many challenges such as COVID-19, the rising fuel prices due to the conflict in Ukraine, and the (increasing) inflation rate, we do see and we are poised especially because of our young population, to grow in the next few years,” he noted. “So I hope to work with all of you and I hope to work with the Ilocano communities out here in California and of course the Filipino communities because I know that building these bridges could benefit us in the long run not only for our country and our kababayans in the Philippines but also for the Filipino communities here in the United States,” he added. He echoed the inauguration speech of Marcos Jr. in calling for Filipinos to unite and adhere to a common goal of uplifting the Philippines, particularly in terms of economic growth. “One of the regrets that I’ve had is that historically the Marcos’ name has been very divisive, but I think recently with this 2022 elections, we’ve seen the ability of our president (Bongbong Marcos) to unite the Philippines and now we are hoping for six years of true progress, of true assistance to those in need. We look forward to synergizing with all of you and I would like to congratulate all of you for showing that the Filipino is truly world class and all of you, in your own way, embody that,” he said. When asked about how he could contribute to reclaiming the Marcos name and legacy, Manotoc said, “I think in my small way, I contribute to the socalled Marcos legacy by trying to govern and manage the province as best I can.” At this point, he said public service should be given an utmost priority and it’s high time to start setting aside indifferences from the past. “The victory of BBM has also painted a slightly different picture of the Marcos legacy and [the president’s] inaugural speech, we are not here to rewrite history. We are not here to look back, we are here to move forward and together, and that is his real intention in the next six years,” he said. “We do not want to hold grudges or to get back on certain people. That is not the purpose of public service and that is something that I always admire in my uncle that throughout the campaign, whatever was thrown at him, he never engaged in socalled dirty politics or bickering. He was above it all and I think

Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Manotoc fields questions from the audience ranging from being from the Marcos lineage to the rising inflation in the Philippines.

Manotoc stops for photos with Fil-Am attendees during a meet and greet event in Cerritos, California. AJPress photo by Noel Ty

that is also something that the 31 million that voted for him truly appreciated.” Despite the critics of the Marcos family and political dynasties, Manotoc said, “We want to make sure that BBM’s victory is our victory and the victory of the Philippines and we will ensure that.” Before assuming his gubernatorial post, Manotoc served as a senior provincial board member from the second legislative district of Ilocos Norte from 2016 to 2019. From this three-year stint, he was also the chairman of the National Movement of Young Legislators – Ilocos Norte Chapter. In the 2019 gubernatorial elections, Manotoc ran unopposed as governor of Ilocos Norte to replace his mother who ran as a senator. In the 2022 elections, Manotoc won overwhelmingly against Rodolfo Farinas, giving him another three-year term. When he first took office, it was reported that one of his priorities was to make health services more accessible and more inclusive by funding and upgrading medical facilities and public health programs. Later on, he initiated the creation of an inter-agency committee to guarantee the delivery of basic health services to the province’s indigenous people and communities. By next year, Manotoc, a graduate of Claremont McKenna College in California with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, is planning to offer scholarship assistance for medical students, thus increasing the number of health personnel and doctors practicing in the province. His flagship program, “NariMAT nga Aglawlaw,” also debuted last October, strengthening the province’s bid for a cleaner, greener, and healthier environment. During the open forum at the Meet and Greet event, Manotoc said that he would continue to push for harnessing renewable energy sources in the province. “I know even geothermal, is another potential energy source that they say can truly be a game

changer. In addition to renewable energy, which we’ve already welcomed in Ilocos Norte, wind and solar especially, hydro energy, they say, can also be large-scale and there are many opportunities for hydro power plants in the Philippines which have not been tapped yet. I think, ultimately it needs to be wholistic and eclectic approach to energy in the Philippines, but this is something that becomes more pressing in the last few years with the crisis in Ukraine and the inflationary pressures that we face in the economy,” he said. Currently, the provincial government of Ilocos Norte is also conducting a series of soil restoration programs in selected municipalities to increase the productivity of the province’s arable lands and ensure a greater yield of its high-value crops. To further promote the sand dunes of Paoay, one of Ilocos’ famous tourist attractions where the classic Filipino movies “Himala” and “Ang Panday” were filmed, Manotoc said they recently hosted a short film festival and competition to support local artists in the province. “This is something that our tourism department has actually been pushing and finally they said gumagaling na tayo, the young kids are very talented in Ilocos Norte. Although I am not artistic myself, I am a proponent of the creative industry, we have actually added an art scholarship recently to the provincial government to support many of our local artists. We take our cue from our forever First Lady Imelda Marcos who always says that art is the greatest form of humanity and love,” he said. With the help of various agencies, Manotoc said he also pushed for the installation of free WiFi services in several public areas, equipping the province with upgraded internet connectivity and accessible communication services. After his remarks and answering questions, Manotoc posed for photos and met with audience members. He was joined by his girlfriend Jamie Herrell, who was named Miss Earth 2014. (Donnabelle Aravelo/ AJPress)

Marcos invites Filipinos to listen to... PAGE 3

guests over the weekend while the rest of the invitations will be delivered this week. “So far, we are OK with the coordination with different agencies and with Malacañang,” Mendoza told GMA 7’s “BalitangHali” on Monday.

Among the invitees are Vice President Sara Duterte, former presidents, former vice presidents, former speakers, former Senate presidents, members of Marcos’ Cabinet and members of the diplomatic corps. This will be the first face-

to-face SONA of a Philippine president since the COVID-19 pandemic started. Duterte’s last two SONAs in 2020 and 2021 were held in a hybrid or mixed live and virtual setup as a precautionary measure against the virus. g

Dateline USa

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Boracay, Palawan and Cebu hailed as world’s... PAGE 1

Boracay and Palawan also topped T+L’s 5 Best Islands in Asia alongside Phuket, Thailand, Bali, Indonesia, and The Maldives. “Travel + Leisure readers fondly recalled preCOVID-era visits to the best islands in Asia. Now that the region is reopening, they’re surely eager to return to these five ports of call, including the islands of the Maldives, as well as those found in Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines.”, stated T + L. “We express our heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to all tourism stakeholders from the public and private sector, the national and local government units, the efforts of the previous administration included, and all the hardworking employees

and officials of the Department across the country for forging forward amidst the challenges of the pandemic and contributing in their own ways so our country may earn the title as one of the most beautiful in the world. The natural beauty of a country can truly shine through when we are united in heralding our best qualities,” Frasco added. One of 40 most beautiful countries in the world The Philippines concurrently was named among “The 40 Most Beautiful Countries in the World” by lifestyle travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler (CNT). The country is accompanied in the list by other countries such as Brazil, France, Italy, Japan, and United States of America, among others. Manila among top cities in the

world Meanwhile, TimeOut.com also ranked Manila among the top cities in the world. The ranking comes as a result of a survey among citydwellers worldwide. The choice is a result of several criteria that include aspects like walkability, good public transport, safety, and sustainability other than a thriving nightlife, amazing food and drink, and art and culture. It should be noted, nonetheless, that Manila is usually in reference to Metro Manila or the Philippines’ National Capital Region. “May this global recognition of the beauty of our natural resources inspire our efforts to raise the Philippines’ standing in the tourism industry by introducing tourism infrastructure development and improvements that would enhance connectivity

PAGE 4 subvariant growing, the FDA on June 30 recommended that drugmakers Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna get to work producing a new, bivalent vaccine that combines the current version with a formulation that targets the new strains. The companies both say they can make available for the U.S. millions of doses of the reformulated shots in October. Experts think that deadline could slip by a few months given the unexpected hitches that plague vaccine manufacturing. “I think that we have all been asking that same question,” said Dr. Kathryn Edwards, scientific director of the Vanderbilt Vaccine Research Program. “What’s the benefit of getting another booster now when what will be coming out in the fall is a bivalent vaccine and you will be getting BA.4/5, which is currently circulating? Although whether it will be circulating in the fall is another question.” The FDA on July 13 authorized a fourth covid vaccine, made by Novavax, but only for people who haven’t been vaccinated yet. Many scientists thought the Novavax shot could be an effective booster for people previously vaccinated with mRNA shots from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna because its unique design could broaden the immune response to coronaviruses. Unfortunately, few studies have assessed mix-andmatch vaccination approaches, said Gellin, of the Rockefeller Foundation.

Edwards and her husband got covid in January. She received a second booster last month, but only because she thought it might be required for a Canadian business trip. Otherwise, she said, she felt a fourth shot was kind of a waste, though not particularly risky. She told her husband — a healthy septuagenarian — to wait for the BA.4/5 version. People at very high risk for covid complications might want to go ahead and get a fourth dose, Edwards said, with the hope that it will temporarily prevent severe disease “while you wait for BA.4/5.” The omicron vaccines will contain components that target the original strain of the virus because the first vaccine formulations are known to prevent serious illness and death even in people infected with omicron. Those components will also help keep the earlier strains of the virus in check, said Dr. David Brett-Major, an infectious disease specialist at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. That’s important, he said, because too much tailoring of vaccines to fight emerging variants could allow older strains of the coronavirus to resurface. Brett-Major said messages about the value of the tailored shots will need to come from trusted, local sources — not just top federal health officials. “Access happens locally,” he said. “If your local systems are not messaging and promoting and enabling access, it’s really problematic.”

Although some Americans are pondering when, or whether, to get their second boosters, many people tuned out the pandemic long ago, putting them at risk during the current wave, experts said. Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, said he doesn’t expect to see the public’s level of interest in the vaccine change much even as new boosters are released and eligibility expands. Parts of the country with high vaccine coverage will remain relatively insulated from new variants that emerge, he said, while regions with low vaccine acceptance could be set for a “rude awakening.” Even scientists are at a bit of a loss for how to effectively adapt to an ever-changing virus. “Nothing is simple with covid, is it? It’s just whack-a-mole,” said Edwards. “This morning I read about a new variant in India. Maybe it’ll be a nothingburger, but — who knows? — maybe something big, and then we’ll wonder, ‘Why did we change the vaccine strain to BA.4/5?’” (Sam Whitehead and Arthur Allen/Kaiser Health News) KHN (Kaiser Health News) is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation). KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation.

Boost now or wait? Many wonder how...

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JULY 22-28, 2022

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JULY 22-28, 2022 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

OPINION

FEATURES

Child health red alert

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The Philippines merited special mention in a new report released last week by the World Health Organization and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund. Unfortunately, it was not a flattering commentary by the WHO and Unicef on the state of Philippine public health. Unicef’s executive director warned of a global “red alert for child health” amid “the largest sustained drop in childhood immunization in a generation,” with the worst situations recorded in five countries: Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Nigeria and the Philippines. WHO and Unicef officials attributed the alarming drop to the disruptions caused by the COVID pandemic in the delivery of public health services alongside misinformation about vaccines. In the Philippines, hysteria over the antidengue vaccine Dengvaxia led to a slide in the general childhood immunization program even before the arrival of COVID. The Dengvaxia scare was blamed for the return of polio in 2019, about 19 years after the Philippines was declared free of the crippling disease. There was also a resurgence of measles, with 47,871 cases and 632 deaths recorded nationwide in 2019. Pandemic lockdowns beginning in 2020 further derailed the national immunization program. Unicef and the WHO, in their report last week, said about 25 million children worldwide failed to get inoculated in 2021 against common

vaccine-preventable diseases led by diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. The “historic backsliding” in childhood immunization is happening at the same time that severe malnutrition is on the rise, weakening the immune systems of children, Unicef and the WHO warned. “The convergence of a hunger crisis with a growing immunization gap threatens to create the conditions for a child survival crisis,” the UN said. Health experts lament that this is eroding the enormous progress achieved in global child vaccination in the two decades before the COVID pandemic struck. Mobility restrictions are now being eased, and governments must move aggressively to make up for the years lost in the childhood vaccination program. In the Philippines, this is critical especially with face-to-face classes resuming this year. School children must be in the best of health for optimum learning. It is not yet too late to turn back the tide and save children from lifelong debilitation and even death. (Philstar. com)

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

Filipinos are fully behind the PCA arbitral ruling

Babe’s Eye View BABE ROMUALDEZ LAST Tuesday, July 19, I was asked to deliver the keynote address at an international forum titled, “Redefining Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific in an Age of Uncertainty,” organized by the Stratbase ADR Institute to commemorate the anniversary of the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration Tribunal Ruling. Conducted via hybrid format, the forum gathered local and regional security experts who discussed the complex issues surrounding the Indo-Pacific and how the Philippines can harness its maritime potential and position itself as a key player in the maritime domain. The powerhouse roster of panelists included director of the Indo-Pacific Security Program at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS) Lisa Curtis; BowerGroupAsia director of research and Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) senior associate Murray Hiebert; Ambassador Jana Sediva of the Czech

Republic; the British Embassy in the Philippines’ deputy head of mission Alistair White; National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies associate professor Yusuke Takagi; Australia National University professor of International Security and Intelligence Studies John Blaxland; De La Salle University professor and Stratbase ADRI program convenor Dr. Renato de Castro; and retired Philippine Navy Rear Admiral Rommel Jude Ong, currently the executive director of the Security Reform Initiative and Professor of Praxis at the Ateneo School of Government. The three-and-a-half-hour conference examined the evolving security architecture in the Indo-Pacific and the need for the Philippines to engage in strategic alliances with like-minded states to promote peace and stability in the region through a rules-based international order. No one will argue that the 2016 PCA arbitral ruling continues to be the single most important document during these volatile times. And as I have always said, it was not only

a victory for the Philippines but for the international community as well for the primary reason that the decision is underpinned by the rule of law. As noted by ADRI president Professor Dindo Manhit, the 2016 arbitral ruling has “defined what is ours as it legitimized and validated our claims in the disputed waters. Under a rulesbased international system, the Permanent Court of Arbitration has legally transformed our maritime claims into territorial rights.” No less than President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself has recognized this, saying, “We have a very important ruling in our favor. We will use it to continue to assert our territorial rights. It’s not a claim, it is already our territorial right,” asserting that “we will not allow a single square millimeter” of our maritime coastal rights to be trampled upon. It was interesting to learn that in a recent Pulse Asia survey commissioned by Stratbase, 89 percent of Filipinos believe that the President should assert our rights in the West Philippine Sea, and 90 percent agree that the new administration under

President Marcos must invest in the capability of the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard to protect the country’s territory and marine resources within its exclusive economic zone. Moreover, 84 percent also agree that the new government should form alliances with other countries to defend Philippine territorial rights in the West Philippine Sea. In his presentation, retired Navy Rear Admiral Rommel Jude Ong asserted that “our defense posture needs a serious reset” to mitigate China’s maritime posture and restore a rules-based order within our exclusive economic zone. A reset would also enable us to “contribute to regional stability under the framework of a free and open Indo-Pacific as well as the ASEAN Outlook in the IndoPacific (AOIP).” As I explained in my keynote remarks, we need to continue with AFP modernization efforts to build a more reliable and credible Philippine armed forces in order to strengthen our territorial or external defense capabilities. One positive development that has happened is the acquisition

of the abandoned Hanjin shipyard in Subic by U.S.-based equity firm Cerberus Capital Management. The shipyard, now known as Agila Subic, will help strengthen and transform the Philippine Navy – which is an anchor tenant occupying 250 acres of the facility – into a multi-capable naval force with the activation of the Naval Operations Base that will play a major role in our military modernization efforts. I agree with the assessment of RADM Ong that for modernization to be sustainable, we must bring the local defense industry into the picture, as “some of the items we are procuring can actually be done by a local company,” he said. At the same time, there is a need to review the legal structure as current laws tend to be biased against local industries instead of supporting them, he added. I for one know that we have a pioneering Filipino company that produces worldclass firearms, ammunition and other defense products – Armscor – which has always been supportive of the SelfReliant Defense Posture (SRDP) program that both

former defense secretary Del Lorenzana and Department of National Defense OIC General Jose Faustino Jr. have been wanting to revive for the Philippines to attain defense self-sufficiency. And while I believe that diplomacy is still the best way to find a peaceful resolution to the contentious issues surrounding the Indo-Pacific, it is equally important for us to be able to defend ourselves if a situation such as an intrusion in our exclusive economic zone occurs. Filipinos are known for having a deep threshold for patience and are prepared to sacrifice for the sake of peace. In Tagalog, “mahaba ang pasensiya ng Filipino.” But make no mistake about it – when push comes to shove, we Filipinos will stand up and fight for what is rightfully ours. (Philstar.com) *** Email: babeseyeview@gmail.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.

Resilience and tourism

Zilch

MA. LOURDES TIQUIA THE economic drivers, pre-pandemic, were OFW remittances and the BPO industry. We remained buoyant during the crucial pandemic years, again because of OFW remittances which registered a record high through banking channels of $31.4 billion in 2021. Cash remittances rose by 5.1 percent from $29.9 billion in 2020, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. If we add personal transfers in cash and the value of non-cash items brought, or sent, by Filipinos abroad, the overall amount of total personal remittances reached $34.9 billion, a record high and up by 5.1 percent from the $33.2 billion in 2020. Personal remittances from OFWs accounted for 9.8 percent of the country's 2021 GDP. The increase happened in spite of almost a million OFWs who were repatriated (all for free) due to the pandemic. The BPO industry, on the other hand, contributes over 11 percent to the GDP. It is the single largest

sector and employs over 1.2 million people across 1,000 outsourcing companies. This sector contributes $30 billion to the economy each year. It is estimated that the Philippines holds 10 to 15 percent of the global BPO market and could potentially grow between 8 to 10 percent every year with the changing work set-up because of the pandemic. This has led to the growth of the "gig economy," opening up to more workers doing WFH. The country's tourism industry can be the main driver of our reboot only if we are to look at it in terms of sustainability, balancing carrying capacity viz income and resiliency. The Philippine travel and tourism sector made a significant jump in 2021 when it registered a $41-billion contribution to our economy based on the World Travel and Tourism Council's (WTTC) latest Economic Impact Report, or EIR. This sector has been contributing an average of 22.5 percent of the total economy, or roughly $29.6 billion. The lockdowns led to the drop in income by almost 81 percent, thus in 2020, the country only earned

P17.8 billion. As restrictions were gradually eased in 2021, the figure rose to $41 billion, representing 10.4 percent share in our total economy. And this is where tourism can be linked with employment because of its multiplier effect in both national and local, leading to a recovery of 1.3 million more jobs, which can even reach 7.8 million jobs, according to WTTC. If the trend is sustained, tourism's contribution to GDP could be worth in excess of $155 billion in 2032, accounting for 21.5 percent of all jobs in the Philippines. But we cannot just be part of the herd. The country has to lead in terms of number of visitors because we have 7,641 reasons to be so. Of the 7,641 islands, only 2,000 are inhabited. More than 5,000 islands of the archipelago are yet to be given names. The 50 largest islands have a combined area of 300,000 square kilometers and a combined population of 108.9 million, meaning these 50 largest islands contain 99 percent of our population. The passage of the long-delayed Land Use bill is urgently needed so we can define the limits of

land for ecotourism. Imagine if each of the 81 provinces has a designated area, the best area for ecotourism. In 2020, because of the pandemic, the Philippines had only 1,482,535 visitor arrivals while Thailand had 6,702,396. Malaysia had 4,332,722 while Indonesia had 4,052,923 and Vietnam 3,686,779. In 2019, Philippines had 8,260,913 visitors while Thailand had 38,178,194; Malaysia at 26,100,874; Vietnam at 18,008,591 and Indonesia at 16,106,954. Why are we not a chosen destination among Asean countries? The Philippines has the 7th highest number of islands in the world after Sweden, Finland, Norway, Canada, Indonesia and Australia. Luzon and Mindanao are contiguous, but Visayas is composed of several separate islands and islets. Peace and order is vital as well as transportation to connect the various islands by air, water and land. There are 30 island provinces that can be destination magnets. Imagine having a tourism ranking like the Michelin star which can signal our country

is ready, not just the luxurious destinations but ecotourism that brings to the fore the culture of each province. And we should learn from Siargao, a global destination because of surfing. Siargao taught us to pursue sustainable (carrying capacity), inclusive and resilient tourism. Boracay showed us why carrying capacity needs to be built in the process of development as well as tourism. Boracay gave us a second chance of stewardship and that is why the roadblocks need to be attended to. Farmto-table is sustainable tourism, but it is not sexy to those lens that see only the upper-end destinations. Tourism is not just marketing, publicity and all that glamor. It is solving the roadblocks that matter. These roadblocks have been identified quite often: "1) development and management of tourism destinations is seen in piecemeal rather than holistic approach; 2) infrastructure remain inadequate to support tourism development and sustainability; 3) tourist destinations are affected and need to recover from different disasters and pandemic; and 4) responsibility to manage

growth and promote sustainable tourism between national and local government is unclear." Imagine developing the biodiversity quad of a destination in Oslob, Dumaguete, Siquijor and Bohol? Or the DuSiBo Triangle? In between those islands are rich biodiversity hubs, which have to be protected and nurtured. Carrying capacity has to be the single most important index. We close once we breach the capacity; hence, other destinations can be considered. Imagine having a calendar of destinations that take into planning the factor of resiliency. Imagine if each province can do that and we have 81 destinations calendared according to the activities unique in each area. But what unites all these? Culture (food and clothing) and heritage (spiritual). Tourism is the biggest industry in the world, and we are sitting on a heap of gold by not tapping our potentials. (ManilaTimes.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.

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Dateline PhiliPPines

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JULY 22-28, 2022

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PH keeps Tier 1 status, but efforts to USAID leads dialogue on improving address trafficking lacking - US report women’s digital inclusion in PH MANILA — The Philippines continued to fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking, but failed to report vigorously probing labor trafficking crimes and holding accountable officials complicit to the crimes, the United States said in its annual report. The Philippines kept its Tier 1 ranking in the 2022 Trafficking in Persons Report released by the U.S. State Department. Tier 1 ranking — the highest ranking — indicates that a government has made efforts to address the problem that meet the standards of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act. The Philippines has maintained its Tier 1 ranking since 2016. “The government continued to demonstrate serious and sustained efforts during the reporting period, considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its anti-trafficking capacity,” the report read. Such efforts included identifying more trafficking victims than in 2020, drafting standard operating procedures on the identification and monitoring of trafficking-related corruption cases, and sentencing nearly all traffickers to significant prison terms. It also lauded the Philippines for creating the Department of Migrant Workers, supporting more victims in participating in the criminal process, and increasing funding to the interagency antitrafficking council. DMW is mandated to oversee law enforcement action against illegal recruitment agencies, create a database to track recruiters involved in trafficking crimes, and raise awareness of trafficking indicators among migrant workers Still not doing enough But while the Philippines met the minimum standards, “it did not report vigorously investigating labor trafficking crimes that occurred within the

Philippines or take adequate steps to investigate and arrest individuals suspected of purchasing commercial sex from trafficking victims, nor did it provide training for labor inspectors on indicators of human trafficking,” the U.S. State Department said. “The government prosecuted and convicted fewer traffickers, and it did not report holding accountable officials allegedly complicit in human trafficking crimes,” it added. The U.S. State Department observed that the government slightly decreased anti-trafficking law enforcement efforts. Authorities reported 168 law enforcement-led anti-trafficking investigations, compared with 248 anti-trafficking operations and 233 investigations of illegal recruitment in the previous reporting period. The Philippines initiated prosecution of 298 alleged traffickers, fewer than the 377 prosecutions in 2020. It also convicted 56 traffickers compared with 73 convictions in the previous reporting period. The U.S. State Department also said that while the country increased victim protection efforts, it lacked a reliable mechanism to consolidate statistics on the total number of victims identified and assisted. Recommendations The U.S. State Department made the following recommendations to the Philippine government: • Increase efforts to investigate, prosecute, and convict complicit officials and labor traffickers • Strengthen the capacity of local government units to provide reintegration services for trafficking survivors, including trauma-informed care, job training, and in-country employment • Increase support to government and NGO programs that provide specialized care for trafficking victims, including child victims of online sexual

Buboy Fernandez thinks Pacquiao boxing comeback ‘possible’ MANILA —Buboy Fernandez is not discounting the possibility that Manny Pacquiao comes back from retirement. Pacquiao is slated for an exhibition fight in December against South Korean YouTuber DK Yoo in a still to be announced venue. It’s also possible that the “special boxing match” against Yoo could lead to Pacquiao’s ring return as far as Fernandez is concerned. But Fernandez, Pacquiao’s childhood friend and longtime trainer, said that it’s all up to the former welterweight champion if he does decide to unretire. “Depende pa rin sa kanya kung talagang babalik siya sa ring,” Fernandez said Wednesday at Shangri-La Fort where Pacquiao and Yoo are scheduled for a contract signing and press conference. (It still depends on him if he returns to the ring.) “Hindi natin masabi pero sabi ko nga (we can’t really say but like I said), it’s possible,” Fernandez added. Pacquiao, 43, hasn’t fought since dropping a unanimous decision loss to Yordenis Ugas in August of last year. (Mark Giongco Inquirer.net)

BAYAN NG WOODSIDE 2955 Woodside Road Woodside, CA 94062 PAUNAWA NG HALALAN IPINAPAUNAWA DITO na isang Pangkalahatan at Ispesiyal na Halalan sa Munisipyo ang gaganapin sa Bayan ng Woodside sa Martes, ika-8 araw ng Nobyembre, 2022, para sa mga sumusunod na opisyal: Isang miyembro ng Konseho ng Bayan na pupunan ang opisina na ngayon ay hawak ni Brian Dombkowski, mula sa Distrito 2, para sa isang buong apat na taong termino na magtatapos sa Nobyembre 2026; Isang miyembro ng Konseho ng Bayan na pupunan ang opisina na ngayon ay hawak ni Richard “Dick” Brown, mula sa Distrito 3, para sa isang buong apat na taong termino na magtatapos sa Nobyembre 2026; Isang miyembro ng Konseho ng Bayan na pupunan ang isang bakanteng puwesto, mula sa Distrito 5, para sa isang dalawang taong termino na magtatapos sa November 2024. Ang araw ng paghahain para sa mga kandidato ay magbubukas na Lunes, Hulyo 18, 2022 sa ganap na ika-8:00 nang umaga at magsasara na Biyernes, Agosto 12, 2022 sa ika-5:00 nang hapon. Kung nabigo ang isang nanunungkulan na maghain ng kanyang nominasyon sa araw ng pagsasara ng paghahain sa Biyernes, Agosto 12, 2022 sa ika-5:00 nang hapon (ang ika-88 araw bago ang halalan), ang araw ng paghahain ay palalawigin ng limang (5) araw, at magtatapos sa Miyerkules, Agosto 17, 2022 sa ika5:00 nang hapon (ang ika-83 araw bago ang halalan) upang mag-nominate ng mga kandidatong hindi ang mga kasalukuyang nakaupo para sa opisina ng nakaupong ito. Ang pagpapalawig na ito ay hindi naaangkop kung walang nanunungkulan o nahalal na taong maaaring mahalal. Kung wala o isang tao lamang ang nominado para sa epektibong katungkulan, ang paghirang sa epektibong opisina ay maaaring gawin ayon sa itinakdang Seksyon 10229 ng California Elections Code. Ang lahat ng mga interesadong kandidato ay dapat mga rehistradong botante ng Bayan ng Woodside. Ang mga papeles ng nominasyon para sa nahalal na posisyon ng Miyembro ng Konseho ng Bayan ng Woodside ay kinakailangang kunin mula sa Opisina ng Kleriko ng Lungsod, 2955 Woodside Road, Woodside, California sa pamamagitan ng appointment. Para sa karagdagang impormasyon, mangyaring makipag-ugnayan sa Kleriko ng Lungsod, Jennifer Li, sa jli@woodsidetown.org. IPINAPAUNAWA RIN DITO na ang Vote By Mail at mga probisyonal na mga balota para sa halalan na gaganapin sa Martes, Nobyembre 8, 2022, ay ita-tally sa County ng Sa Mateo, Dibisyon ng Registration & Elections sa 40 Tower Road, San Mateo, CA 94402. Ang mga poll sa Araw ng Halalan ay bukas mula ika-7:00 nang umaga, hanggang ika-8:00 nang gabi. 7/22/22 CNS-3606397# ASIAN JOURNAL (NORTHERN CALIF.)

exploitation • Establish and implement a process to ensure systematic and ongoing input from a diverse community of survivors on the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of antitrafficking policies and programs • Increase efforts to ensure victims receive court-ordered restitution and compensation ordered through civil judgments • Increase resources for antitrafficking task forces to conduct timely investigations, coordinated operations, and prosecutions while providing robust victim and witness assistance services • Increase efforts to identify and assist labor trafficking victims, including by providing training to law enforcement, social service providers, and labor inspectors on indicators of trafficking • Increase resources for law enforcement units designated to investigate all forms of trafficking • Consistently implement the coordinated interagency response to providing services to returning Filipinos exploited in sex and labor trafficking overseas • Create a central database for information on illegal recruiters and human trafficking cases to facilitate interagency coordination in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting traffickers (Gaea Katreena Cabico/Philstar. com)

MANILA – Speakers and reactors from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), Philippine Commission on Women, Global Systems of Mobile Communications Association (GSMA), and the public and private sectors recently engaged more than 300 participants at an online dialogue on the prevailing gender mobile usage gap worldwide and in the Philippines. In commemoration of National Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Month, the United States government, through the USAID led the dialogue to promote increased access to digital technology in the Philippines, particularly among women. More than 300 participants attended the dialogue on June 27 to discuss issues related to digital inclusion, such as the gender mobile internet adoption and usage gap and key ICT policy challenges and opportunities to increase women’s mobile internet use. “We are at the cusp of a rapid digital transformation where digital devices and the internet

have become an integral part of our day-to-day lives,” USAID Philippines Regional Office of Acquisition and Assistance Director Jennifer Crow said in a statement issued on Tuesday. “USAID remains committed to supporting the Philippine government in building a future where digital technology promotes inclusive growth, fosters resilient and democratic societies, and empowers all, including the most vulnerable,” she added. According to the Global Systems of Mobile Communications Association (GSMA), 52 million Filipinos living in areas already covered by mobile broadband do not use mobile internet. A significant number of them are women who face barriers such as handset and data cost, limited access to networks and electricity, and safety and security concerns that include online harassment and fraud. “We continue to work together with various partners to ensure that internet connectivity is widely available to every Filipino. Through our efforts, we can surely accelerate progress in advancing ICT and deliver on the promise of digital inclusion,” DICT Undersecretary Maria Victoria Castro said.

Speakers shared policy examples and innovations from other countries, such as lowering consumer taxes and import duties on handsets, offering flexible payment terms for underserved customer segments, providing targeted internet service and smartphone subsidies for women entrepreneurs and female-headed households, and increasing digital literacy. The dialogue also highlighted existing policies and programs that support digital inclusion in the Philippines which include the Updated Philippine Development Plan, the Updated Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Plan, the National Broadband Plan, the Free Wi-Fi for All Program, and the Tech4ED Project. Through its Better Access and Connectivity (BEACON) project, USAID helps improve the Philippines’ ICT and logistics infrastructure; strengthen the regulatory, business, and innovation environment; and bolster cybersecurity. To help bridge the digital divide, USAID also assists the government in automation and digitization efforts and supports community networks to expand low-cost internet access for underserved communities. (PNA)

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JULY 22-28, 2022 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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US agricultural trade mission in PH to ink three deals

MANILA — Nearly 40 U.S.based agribusinesses, farm organizations, and representatives from state departments of agriculture are on a trade mission to ink three deals for agricultural opportunities in the Philippines. Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) Administrator Daniel Whitley is leading the group, aided by the FAS office based in Manila. “I’m confident the next few days will offer an abundance of opportunities for both the United States and the Philippines,” BACK RIDER. An Angkas motorcycle rider with a back rider traversing a busy Quezon Avenue in Quezon City on Monday, July 18. The Angkas is one of the alternative transportation services available to the riding public. PNA photo by Jess M. Escaros Jr. Whitley said in a statement on Monday, July 18. They will be meeting with local

Stubbornly high PH inflation dilutes benefits of a weak peso MANILA — As the Philippine peso hovers within 17-year lows, money sent home by Filipinos abroad are getting a boost. Ideally, the gains should translate to stronger purchasing power for the families of these expats, but not for Melissa Tresvalles, a 31-year-old overseas Filipino worker in Saudi Arabia. “Despite the bigger value of my remittances, prices of consumer items are also rising back home,” she said in an interview. “That’s why my family does not feel the benefits of the weak peso.” The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has traditionally emphasized the benefits of — and even its preference for — a weak peso. Last week, the local unit touched the all-time low of P56.45 against the greenback as an aggressive U.S. Federal Reserve triggers capital outflows from emerging markets and prop up demand for dollars. The Philippines’ rising import bill amid rallying world oil prices is also adding pressure on the country’s currency. Apart from boosting remittances and helping stimulate consumption, a depreciating currency can also help exporters gain more market share by making the prices of their products cheaper compared to other goods that are priced at stronger currencies. At the same time, a weak currency can boost the central bank’s earnings as the BSP may opt to sell dollars from its holdings to arrest a deeper currency slump. But some of those benefits are hardly manifesting these days. “I have always welcomed a depreciating peso as the benefits reach not only overseas Filipinos and their families but also local manufacturers that compete with

EMPLOYMENT

cheap imports, exporters, BPOs etc…,” Jun Neri, lead economist at Bank of the Philippine islands, said. “However, given the extraordinary rise of inflation everywhere in the world, the gains from the depreciation are easily diluted by rising onshore prices of food, transport and even key services,” he added. Government data shows inflation, as measured by the consumer price index, heated up 6.1% year-on-year in June, the hottest in over three years. State statisticians also reported that the value of P1 back in 2018 is now equivalent to P0.87 in June this year, and other data tells us that stubbornly high prices are already weighing on consumer sentiment. A quarterly central bank survey released last month found that consumer spending outlook for the third quarter fell to 38.3%, from 40.4% recorded in the first quarter, as households expect prices to go even higher in the coming months. And OFWs, who typically spend over 90% of their remittances on food and other household needs based on BSP data, are not spared from the onslaught of inflation. When Glyza Biscocho, an airport supervisor for a major airline based in Singapore, flew home last weekend, she was surprised to find consumer prices were zooming. “My family thinks it’s a good thing because they end up getting more with the same amount when converted to peso. But they don’t see how badly it reflects on the Philippine economy, consumer goods are so expensive,” Biscocho, 28, said in an interview. Bad to worse Beyond consumption, inflows

from remittances, one of the Philippines’ major sources of dollars, are not seeing a significant increase because a weak peso eases the pressure on OFWs to send home a bigger amount of dollars to cover the peso expenses of their families here. Latest data from the BSP showed cash remittances only grew 1.8% year-on-year in May. While exports are growing, the Philippines is still grappling with a record trade imbalance as soaring oil prices push up import costs. The BSP’s foreign reserves, meanwhile, are down as the government settles its COVID-19 debts. As the crashing currency does more harm than good in the economy by fueling inflation, the BSP last week hiked its key rate by a massive 75 basis points (bps) at an off-cycle meeting. The forceful action helped prevent the peso from posting a new recordlow, but Nicholas Mapa, senior economist at ING Bank in Manila, said the rate hike’s cooling effect on the economy could make things harder for many Filipinos. “With inflation on the rise, unfortunately Filipinos May face conditions that may slow consumption. On top of this, rate hikes will now make borrowing more expensive, one more reason that should weigh on overall economic conditions,” Mapa said. Sonny Africa, executive director of non-profit think tank IBON Foundation, agreed with Mapa. “Inflation will get worse as the peso devaluation and oil prices still keep working their way through the economy in the months to come. Joblessness will worsen as inflation rises, as spending weakens, and as the economy slows,” he said. (Philstar.com)

EMPLOYMENT

companies in hopes of inking deals that allow American food and farm products to be imported into the Philippines. In the last five years, the Philippines has been listed as the eighth-largest export market for U.S. agricultural products at $3.1 billion. "We have a diverse group of U.S. agribusinesses and industry officials joining us in Manilla who can provide reliable, highquality, and sustainably-produced U.S. food and farm products to local buyers," Whitney said. A U.S. Department of Agriculture-backed program to help combat African swine fever

(ASF) will also be launched in the coming days. Some cities such as Zamboanga del Sur’s Zamboanga City are under the red zone classification of the Philippine Department of Agriculture after ASF was detected in 15 barangays. Meanwhile, the state departments of agriculture will also formalize trade opportunities with Batangas through a memorandum of understanding. The U.S. Grains Council and Mariano Marcos State University will also forge ties to focus on supporting biofuel solutions and climate smart practices. (Kaycee Valmonte/Philstar.com)

PH, China negotiate to pursue infra deals THE Chinese embassy in the Philippines said on Sunday, July 17 Beijing and Manila have made "positive progress" in their discussion to proceed with the railway projects in Bicol, Clark and Mindanao. "Our two sides have been negotiating technical issues and made positive progress to move the projects forward," the embassy said in a statement. President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. wants to renegotiate the country's withdrawn loan deals for the Bicol, Subic-Clark and Mindanao railway projects. The embassy said China "is open for technical discussions over our G-to-G (government to government) projects, and is ready to carry our cooperation forward, in close communication with the Philippine new administration." "China has comprehensive strength and is well-known for its quality and speed. China will tap its own advantage and support the Philippines to improve its infrastructure," the embassy said. The embassy noted that in the past six years, China and the Philippines have "deepened the synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative." A total of 17 projects have been completed, and more than 20 projects are under implementation or in progress, the embassy said. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the implementation of some projects, hindering the site availability, causing delays of procurement, affecting goods mobility, it said. "Despite those difficulties and challenges, our two sides have worked tirelessly to push the

projects forward and yielded rich outcomes, spanning from anti-pandemic response, disaster relief to infrastructure, agriculture and other fields," the embassy said. The phone conversation between President Xi Jinping and President Marcos and the recent high-level visits "have ushered in a new era of China-Philippine friendship," the embassy said. It assured that China's policy toward the Philippines "has always been and will continue to be "consistent and stable as ever." However, two finance experts said China might raise the stakes if the Philippine government decides to renegotiate the Chinese-funded railway projects. In a message shared by former Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III to reporters over the weekend, Finance Undersecretary Mark Dennis Joven said that because "U.S. [dollar] benchmark interest rates have increased to around 3 percent, Cexim (Export-Import Bank of China) will push to recover this funding rate at the very least." While Cexim has not revealed the financing cost it plans to offer, it has declared it wants to at least recover a minimal funding cost on the railway project loans, Joven noted. Cesar Chavez, the Department of Transportation (DoTr) undersecretary for rails, announced the withdrawal of the loan deal and cited Dominguez's statement that he "canceled the application instead of keeping it in suspended animation." When Cexim failed to approve the loan before the May 21, 2022 validity date, the application was

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automatically withdrawn, Chavez said. The DoTr advised the Department of Finance to begin policy discussions on the course to take for the three projects, he said. Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said the Marcos administration could still continue the projects "if found worthwhile" and "if funding is still available." Asked if it is still a good idea to borrow from Cexim now that interest rates around the world have gone up, Dominguez responded, "The prudent path [for the Philippines] would be to ascertain that the cost of the debt be less than economic returns of the project financed." "Every effort on the Philippines' part was made to finance these projects based on favorable terms and conditionalities broadly comparable with loans from other sources," he added. Sen. Mary Grace Poe on Sunday asked the government to ensure that any plans to renegotiate infrastructure deals with China will be advantageous to the Filipino people. "The President's directive presents an auspicious opportunity to go back to the drawing board and craft deals that are fair and will produce tangible benefits to the Filipino people," Poe said. She said renegotiation" should iron out issues that saddled the previous agreements, including interest rates and payment terms." "The need to boost our infrastructure should not compromise the best interest of our country," Poe said in a statement. (ManilaTimes.net)

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‘Loveless’ Pokwang and Rabiya put work ahead of romance by ALLAN

POLICARPIO Inquirer.net

WHILE they both had personal issues to deal with when shooting started for their upcoming game show, “TiktoClock,” Pokwang and Rabiya Mateo knew better than to let whatever emotional baggage they had weigh down their hosting jobs. Pokwang, who recently revealed that she and her husband, Lee O’Brian, have been separated for seven months now, said in a video conference for the said GMA 7 program: “We have to make the viewers at home happy. Our goal is to spread joy. Whatever sadness you’re feeling, let’s leave that behind, because the viewers have nothing to do with it—they just want to laugh. And we will give them that.” Rabiya didn’t explicitly confirm rumors that she and Jeric Gonzales have already called it quits. But the Miss Universe Philippines 2020 winner did let on that working in “a highly competitive industry” has taught her to separate her personal

Pokwang

GMA 7 saw potential in me. And that motivates me to do my very best, so I could keep up with them.” Pokwang made Rabiya comfortable on the set by doing what she does best—making people laugh. “Pinatatawa ko na lang nang pinatatawa. Before we know it, we’re already laughing at our problems… We’re very blessed because not everyone is given a chance like this. So what we need to do is be grateful and show that to our viewers,” she said. Open for new love “Be happy. Happiness is contagious… And that will be reflected onscreen,” Pokwang added. Needless to say, Pokwang and Rabiya are putting work over love life for now. “Hindi ko kinokontra si God,” Pokwang said, when asked if she was open for a new love. “But I’m just leaving everything to Him. Bahala na po Kayo. I will just keep busy with work.” “I’m focusing on my career. That’s what they told me as well,” Rabiya said. “I want to be good at hosting.” Directed by Louie Ignacio, “TiktoClock” airs weekday mornings starting July 25. The variety show features timed games, buzzer-beater performances and interactive segments, where studio audience and home viewers get a chance to win prizes. Rabiya admitted that she initially found Pokwang intimidating. “I was scared of her at first. But eventually, you feel that Mamang really has a mother’s touch. Sometimes, when you’re not feeling well, she will be there, offering medicine GMA phtos PAGE 13

problems from her professional life. “You can’t just go about carrying that load at work, because you’re there to make people happy. No life is perfect— we all have our own problems to face. But that doesn’t mean you should focus on those,” she pointed out. Grateful for blessings Instead of wallowing in disappointment, Rabiya chooses to be grateful and celebrate the blessings she has been receiving. “It’s part of life. If you fall, get back up and keep yourself busy. There’s so much in life to celebrate. There are lots of people who would like to have a spot like this. It’s a privilege and blessing that I was chosen to do this show,” she said. Thankfully, her cohosts Pokwang and Kuya Kim Atienza are there to guide her, onscreen and off. “I have an ate and kuya on the set… We’re happy at work. We focus on the positive things that are happening in our lives,” Rabiya said. “This job was given to me because I believe

Rabiya Mateo

SINGLE PARENT LEAVES CHILDREN BEHIND BECAUSE OF DATE OF MARRIAGE ON THEIR BIRTH CERTIFICATES, THIS SUNDAY ON CITIZEN PINOY. Mike (2nd from left) was petitioned as “single” by his mother and wanted to bring his children with him to the U.S., but his mother said, “just leave the kids behind,” since their birth certificates had a date of marriage. Unfortunately, that decision resulted in many years of separation for Mike and his children. Leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) was able to bring Mike’s son, Migs (left), and daughter, Myki (3rd from left), to the U.S. under Lola’s petition, despite a date of marriage on their birth certificates. Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, July 24 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET thru select Cable/Satellite providers), right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement)

Lola’s wrong advice resulted in many years of family separation, this Sunday on Citizen Pinoy MIKE missed the chance to bring his kids to the U.S. due to wrong advice from his wellmeaning mother. Mike was petitioned as single by his mother, but she told him not to bring his children along, since their birth certificates had a date of marriage listed. Many erroneously assume that a date of marriage on the birth

certificate of a child born out of wedlock can be fatal to their case if they are being petitioned as single. This episode proves that is not true. Watch how leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel was able to bring Migs and Myki to the U.S. under their grandmother’s petition, despite a date of marriage on their birth

certificates. Don’t miss this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, July 24 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET thru select Cable/Satellite providers). Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the app for free. (Advertising Supplement)

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JULY 22-28, 2022 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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Filipino American breakout actor Brandon Perea makes feature film debut in ‘Nope’ by

Klarize Medenilla / AJPress

THE most anticipated film of the summer is, undoubtedly, “Nope,” the latest offering from Academy Award-winning writer and director Jordan Peele that promises a new take on the classic extraterrestrial blockbuster. And just like his previous feature endeavors, “Nope” promises suspense and horror with a signature Peele smattering of thought-provoking commentary on the zeitgeist that will keep audiences discussing and theorizing. Among the most anticipated parts of the film includes the prolific, diverse-in-every-way cast. Academy Award winner Daniel Kaluuya (“Get Out,” “Judas and

the Black Messiah”), vivacious character actor Keke Palmer (“Hustlers”), and Academy Award nominee Steven Yeun (“Minari,” “The Walking Dead”) come together to investigate a mysterious phenomenon that has been abducting residents and animals of the Santa Clarita community. The film also features an exciting actor to watch in Brandon Perea, the 27-year-old Filipino American actor who, in his feature film debut, delivered a breakout performance. Perea (Netflix’s “The OA”) — plays Angel Torres, a tech expert who works at the now-closed Fry’s Electronics in Burbank and helps a sibling team of horse train-

“Nope,” Brandon Perea’s debut film, will be released on Friday, July 22.

ers — OJ Haywood (Kaluuya) and his sister, Emerald (Palmer) — in capturing footage of a sighted UFO that has been causing their horses to behave violently. As a character, Angel serves as somewhat of a stand-in for the audience and Perea’s lived-in performance as the comically dry Angel makes you go, “Yeah, I know a guy just like this.” But there’s still a necessary sweetness to Angel that Perea naturally brought to his performance that meshed perfectly with the rest of the principal cast. When recounting his experience with working on “Nope” with the Asian Journal, Perea beamed, sharing, “I feel like for anyone, that would be an incredible experience and it was truly something I’ve never imagined. I keep calling it a miracle job because that’s the only way to describe it. Perea shared that he was “an emotional wreck” when he got the role. “It was funny because I got Jordan to cry as well,” Perea said, recounting a “speech” he gave Peele after getting the part where he said “You know this industry can be so hard and it has its ups and downs and rollercoasters around and I felt that maybe he could relate as well. It was very touching.” Peele is somewhat of a modern rendering of the great Alfred Hitchcock — a brave visionary who isn’t afraid to push the boundaries of mainstream horror in an attempt to capture a not-too-cynical but not-too-cloying representation of humanity. His heroes feel less like types, individuals who are fallible and with their own quirks. Perea shared that his audition piece for Angel was a more quirky, nerdy retail worker, but knowing that Peele opts for the more “grounded performances,” Perea peppered in his own knowledge and takes of who this character could be — and Peele ended up rewriting the character for Perea. “Usually what we see when we go into retail stores are people who don’t really wanna be there, so I feel like that’s the energy I usually get [from those employees], and Jordan thought that was really funny, and that’s what he ran with: a more hard-nosed character who’s just mad at everything,” Perea shared. Initially, Angel comes off as this dry, know-it-all tech- savvy person

who can’t be bothered with the ignorance of the customers he serves, a deadpan version of “the kind of person who thinks he’s the smartest person in the room” type, Perea explained. But once he finds out that OJ and Emerald are different from his usual clientele, he softens and becomes an invaluable companion on the mission to figure out what the hell is going on in the sky. At the start of the film, “Angel’s dealing with heartbreak, and I feel like when you deal with heartbreak, you end up in this lonely spot and looking for purpose. I felt like this mission that they go on can fulfill that emptiness and purpose and the group becomes a family that Angel’s never really had. He’s trying to be a part of something,” Perea said. Within 30 seconds of meeting Angel, it’s clear that this is the kind of person who moderates Reddit and 4chan boards and consumes “Ancient Aliens” every night while stoned. It’s a depiction of people who very much exist in the real world, which makes the film’s world feel all the more real — and disturbingly so. With “Nope,” Peele sought to create “not only a flying saucer horror film, but really, the quintessential one.” In production notes, Peele acknowledges that it was an ambitious undertaking, narratively and technologically, and Peele, once again, takes advantage of the eerieness of liminality and the uncanny valley. While the level of horror is significantly lower than that of Peele’s previous two films — “Get Out” (which earned Peele the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay) and “Us” — the character development in “Nope” is far more dynamic. One of Peele’s strengths is his commitment to not just racially and ethnically diverse representation, but grounded representation. Each of the main characters — two Black leads in Kaluuya and Palmer and two Asian supporting characters in Perea and Yeun — have their own neuroses and personalities; they’re fascinating characters who also happen to be people of color. “That’s what Jordan did so well with ‘Nope’ — he sprinkled in real things about race in these characters but it isn’t what defines them completely,” Perea said, “They’re normal humans going through

27-year-old Brandon Perea’s makes his feature film debut in “Nope,” from Academy Awardwinning writer and director Jordan Peele.

Photo from Instagram/@brandonperea

something crazy. And I think Jordan really knocked it out of the park with bringing the story to a real place.” The realism within the characters adds to the unsettling nature and the mounting suspense of the film, which, although its central concern is a possible UFO, also begins to unpack the equally as unsettling human obsession with spectacle. And when it comes to the essential question over whether he believes aliens exist, Perea re-

mains open-minded. “You know what? It is a big universe and it is ever growing as we’re talking right now,” he said. “There has to be something, and I hope it’s not human form. I hope they look like little green, weird things—” he paused, looking up addressing the extraterrestrial community that may or may not exist, “Sorry, not weird! Y’all are stunning! Please don’t eat me.” “Nope” comes out in theaters on Friday, July 22.

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Vegas Loop’s Resorts World station opens by RealtoR

Fely Quitevis-Bateman

IT is an ambitious project that when completed will comprise of 55 stations within a 29-mile underground tunnel network. Called the Vegas Loop, the project is being undertaken by Elon Musk’s The Boring Company. The tunnel network is planned to stretch from Allegiant Stadium across the strip to other points north, and even over to the airport. The ultimate hope for the company is to be able to tunnel all the way to Los Angeles. Recently, the Resorts World station for this project was opened, with Las Vegas Convention Center attendees and the general public able to ride the Teslas going within the loop. Convention center attendees can currently get out of the station, while others will circle back to the RW station. The ride from the RW station to the LVCC West Hall parking lot takes over just a minute, with the Tesla hitting about 30 mph. News reports say that the “joyride” in a Tesla Model X or Model & costs $1.50, or a day pass can be bought for $2.50. The Vegas Loop has actually been operating within the Las Vegas Convention Center grounds already, providing rides for attendees who want to go to points

across the LVCC campus. The loop actually saves attendees valuable time as a trip from the West Hall to the North/Central Hall can take up to 25 minutes. Riding the loop will take approximately only 2 minutes. Within the LVCC, the system can transport more than 4,400 convention attendees per hour across the campus, according to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority website. Passengers load into vehicles capable of holding The newly-opened Resorts World Station of the Vegas Loop allows convention attendees to three people, with future vehicles go back and forth between Resorts World and the Las Vegas Convention Center. Image capture from www.lvcva.com capable of holding up to 12 people, it said. The loop within LVCC has been operating for more than a year prior to the opening of the RW station. Officials like Resorts World CEO/ President Scott Sibella and LVCVA CEO/President Steve Hill who were present at the RW station opening said in news reports that the project is safe and there are procedures in place in cases of flood or fire. “It’s extremely safe. As you know, these electric cars…there’s no emission, there’s no gas, there’s exiting in case a car does break down. It’s easy to get a car out,” Sibella was quoted as saying. “You can use stations for emergency exits, but there are also exits in the system where Dining with Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (extreme right) in Pahrump are her investors: (from left) Ace Realty’s Nida Santos (Realtor Quitevis-Bateman’s friend for almost 40 years, who is a broker from Marikina City, Philippines), Vivian Pahati and Erma de Guzman.

you can just open a door and walk out, so there’ll be stairwells,” Hill answered, when asked about flood or fire situations. The benefits to riding within the loop are obvious, especially when it is fully complete. Aside from savings on time and the use of cleaner technology, it avoids potential weather delays, surfacelevel infrastructure and horrendous traffic. According to LVCVA’s Hill, applications for the next three to four phases of the project are being turned out, although he would not reveal which station might open next. In the loop’s future destinations are stops are resorts along the Strip, connections to downtown, a loop that goes to W. Flamingo Road and south to Russell Road, and a stop at UNLV. The route to Reid International Airport is a goal for the company, but there are no agreements in place as of yet. What’s great and unique about the loop is that passengers don’t have to stop at every station on the A 10-minute walk from Turnberry Place Tower 2 is the Resorts World Hotel (dark building in the way to a destination, said Hill. background) where the Resorts World station of the Vegas Loop just opened in photo taken The LVCVA CEO and president by Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman. said that Las Vegas is one of the

few places in the world where billion-dollar projects such as this is going on all the time. He believes that the loop is a transformative transportation project for Las Vegas and that “seeing real, substantial progress is pretty gratifying.” This project represents a huge victory not only for its supporters but for Las Vegas as it probably represents the future in transportation, or some form of it. What’s not to love about the use of cleaner technology? The Vegas Loop is just one of the many projects being planned and constructed in the city, which has undergone a tremendous transformation since it became a popular destination. Las Vegas has become known as one of the gambling and entertainment capitals in the world, and the current push is for it to become a sports capital in the world. Big tracts of land have recently sold along or near the Strip where either major projects are being planned by huge companies or analysts are speculating on the kind of projects being put in those areas. The Oak View Group has its planned $3 billion sports

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman helps those who need business financing, including loans for small businesses. For more information, call (702) 538-4948, or send email to fely@preciousproperties.com or fely.precious@gmail.com.

and entertainment hub near the intersection of Las Vegas Boulevard and Blue Diamond Road; The Siegel Group, which purchased about 10 acres near the north part of the Strip, has yet to comment on what it plans for the land, although there are speculations that it may include a casino-hotel, a condominium tower, retail outlets and multi-family apartments; Formula One’s parent company, which completed a $240 million purchase of nearly 40 acres just east of the Strip, and who will run a high-speed race in 2023 in the city; and a 2.2-acre property along Las Vegas Boulevard and Russell Road that was bought for a reported $12.8 million and whose buyer still is a mystery to many (no word on what project is being planned for this tract of land). There are many other deals going about in Las Vegas, including Hard Rock International’s plans to buy The Mirage’s operations for more than $1 billion along with a goal to build a guitar-shaped hotel tower on the Strip, and casino landlord Vici Properties buyout of MGM Resorts International’s real estate spinoff for $17.2 million.

The Fountainbleau Las Vegas, which is currently undergoing construction, is scheduled to open in late 2023. Even with the recent slowdown in real estate activity, there are still distinct advantages in looking at purchasing real estate in Nevada, whether it is in Las Vegas or communities like Pahrump, which is about less than an hour’s drive from Las Vegas. Property prices are still more affordable in the state than in other major cities/towns in the United States. I bring a few decades worth of experience in real estate that will help you, my kababayans, in your search for real estate – whether it is for a new home, a second/vacation home, an investment property, or a piece of land where you want to construct your dream home. My company, Precious Properties, is a full-service company that has served its clientele since 1992. You can reach me at 775513-8447, 805-559-2476 and 702538-4948 for more information, or send me an email at fely@preciousproperties.com or fely.precious@ gmail.com. We have investors

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JULY 22-28, 2022 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

celebrityworld By Ferdie Villar PINOY pop (P-pop) group SB19 made it to the all-time favorite boy bands list compiled by Teen Vogue that came out this month. In the article written by De Elizabeth for the magazine, SB19 is described as: “Josh, Pablo, Stell, Ken, and Justin are the five members of the Filipino boy band known as SB19. They were formed in 2016 after winning a talent search, going on to release a studio album along with eight singles. They’ve continued achieving heights of popularity in early 2022 with the release of their hit ‘Bazinga.’” Among the boy bands included in the list are BTS, Boyz II Men, The Beatles, One Direction, *NSYNC, 98 Degrees, The Jackson 5, New Kids on the Block, O-Town, New Edition, Hanson, Jodeci, Menudo, 5ive, B2K, Westlife, EXO, Jonas Brothers, Monsta X and Backstreet Boys, among others. SB19 debuted in 2018 after undergoing training under ShowBT Philippines (the

Philippine subsidiary of ShowBT Group in Korea), and is the first Filipino and Southeast Asian group to be nominated in the Top Social Artist category of the Billboard Music Awards and enter the top 10 of Billboard Social 50 weekly and year-end charts. While its first single, “Tilaluha,” received lukewarm reception from the public, its succeeding efforts became social media and chart hits starting with “Go Up,” which was released in 2019. In 2020, the group released its debut album, “Get in the Zone,” which spawned multiple chart hits in Billboard’s LyricFind Global list. The following year saw more hits from the album enter the LyricFind Global charts. 2021 also saw the group release “What?,” “Mapa” and “Pagsibol” – the first two were pre-releases for their extended play (EP), while “Pagsibol” is the EP. SB19 was nominated as Best Southeast Asia Act at the 2021 MTV Europe Music Awards. In

Actor John Lloyd Cruz has been revealed as the official photographer for the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival. Photo from Instagram/@johnlloydcruztm

Health @Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS A FEW years ago, while waiting at O’Hare Airport in Chicago for our flight to Lake Charles, Louisiana to attend the graduation of our granddaughter Sydney, my wife Farida and I saw a cute, cheerful, very active toddler, who reminded us fondly of our five children and ten grandchildren at that age. As a pediatrician, Farida guessed the baby girl’s age correctly, as we overheard the father telling a lady “16 months old.” Personally, I find them most enjoyable and adorable between ages one to three, and especially challenging at age two: Terrible Two, when they start to develop their personality and love to say “No!,” asserting their independence. The stage I truly marvel at, even today, is the initiation of life when the sperm meets the ovum which starts fertilization from one cell, geometrically and progressively dividing, eventually growing into an embryo, then fetus. How a new human being comes to life and how DNA maps and guides the entire process are amazing and mind-boggling, to say the least. To me, it is nothing short of a miracle. The progress of fetal development compounds the excitement and interest. And the curiosity and the queries abound. Fetal development The cells in the embryo begin to organize themselves into the fetus’s brain, face, eyes, ears, and nose between the 4th and 5th week of pregnancy. The heart starts to beat at about 22 days after conception, but on the ultrasound, the beating heart of the fetus is seen in about 5 weeks from the last menstrual period of the mother. At 18 weeks, the baby begins to hear, more sensitive at week 24 when the ears are developing better. Between weeks 25th and 26th, it responds to voices and noise in the womb. The baby at this stage is able to hear music, the mother’s breathing, motion, stomach growls, and heartbeat. The outside sounds are muted by half in the uterus, muffled by the amniotic fluid (like shock absorber) where the baby floats. Constant exposure to loud noises could cause hearing defect in

SB19 makes it to Teen Vogue list late November 2021, the group’s song, “Bazinga,” entered the newly-launched Billboard Hot Trending Songs, marking the first time for a Filipino artist to debut a track on the chart. That song eventually reached number one in the Hot Trending Songs chart, spending the most weeks at the top position. Aside from their chart hits, SB19 has performed in locally and internationally, including representing the Philippines at the 2021 ASEAN-Korea Round Festival and an international live performance at the Expo 2020 in Dubai, as well as headlining the first P-pop Convention at the Araneta City (2022) and a live solo concert at the Araneta Colisum (2022). Among the groups that SB19 has cited as their inspiration include B2ST, Got7, Bing Bang, VIXX and BTS. *** It’s a job swap that people did not see happening – an actor going behind the lens to photograph portraits of directors whose movies are entered in a film festival. But this is exactly what happened at the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival where actor John Lloyd Cruz was

P-pop group SB19 has been named as one of Teen Vogue’s all-time favorite boy bands.

confirmed as the event’s official photographer who will take the photos of the 11 filmmakers in the competition. According to Cinemalaya, it invites a photographer every year to take the portraits of the filmmakers who are participating in the competition. “This year, in an extraordinary opportunity, an actor will hold

TV host Luiz Manzano says he thinks of the opportunities he has to give joy to his fans whenever he begins to think of quitting or taking a sabbatical. Photo from Instagram/@luckymanzano

Miracle of life the fetus. The mother’s voice is the most significant, familiar and soothing sound the baby hears, which the baby in the womb can recognize by the third trimester (by 28th weeks). Its heartbeat increases when the mother is speaking, showing their awareness and alertness. At 25 weeks (5 months and one week) of gestation, the fetus is about 13.1 inches (33.6 cm) tall and 1.7 pounds (785 grams) in weight. They already look like human beings, a very tiny version of a full-term baby. Normal full-term delivery is 40 weeks (10 months). Those born at 25 weeks are tiny and fragile, but with modern neonatology care, most make it, although some simply do not survive. Indeed, the fetuses in the womb, when allowed to grow fully, are our future fellow human beings. Brain health: B6 A new study shows that Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine), one of the B vitamins, could reduce anxiety and depression after taking it at a high dose for a month. In the research, Vitamin B12 did not have much impact on these conditions, but pyridoxine had a good positive impact. The effective dose of B6 in this study to prevent or treat mood disorders was found to be about 50 times the minimum daily requirement of 1.3 mg for 50 and younger, and 1.5 to 1.7 mg for those older than 50. Published in the journal Human Psychopharmacology, the investigators stated, “Vitamin B6 helps the body produce a specific chemical messenger that inhibits impulses in the brain, and our study links this calming effect with reduced anxiety among the participants; pyridoxine is known to increase the body's production of GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid), a chemical that blocks impulses between nerve cells in the brain.” Foods that contain B6 include, among others, chickpeas, fruits and vegetables, and tuna, but it needs B6 supplements to be high enough a concentration in the body to have a positive effect on mood. When the final studies pan out to be safe and effective, this therapy would be a boon in the management of mood disorders and positively impacts millions of lives worldwide. Consult your physician before embarking on this, or

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other therapies, which, in this particular case still needs a larger-scale clinical trial before being approved for general use. Erection problem Erectile dysfunction (ED), the inability to have a firm erection for successful intercourse, affects more than 30 million Americans, and roughly about 10 million Filipinos. Around 52 percent of males, ages 40-70, have this malady. Even the younger men are not exempt from ED. But there is hope today, with our modern therapeutics. The common causes include vascular (the most common), smoking, diabetes, alcohol use, stress, depression, anxiety, medications, the deficit in nerve signaling, and endocrine or hormone issues. Medical consultation is important to rule out organic medical problems that would require more comprehensive laboratory tests. An association between dietary cholesterol, unsaturated fat intake, and erectile dysfunction was discovered by the Massachusetts Male Aging Study. Consuming a Mediterranean diet, consisting mostly of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil, and avocados, may prevent ED. The following food items help in preventing and management of ED, besides providing other nutritional benefits to the body: fish, oatmeal, blackberries, avocados, pistachios watermelon, spinach, kale, persimmons pomegranate juice, bananas, apricots, chili peppers, nuts, and green leafy, and other color vegetables. Regular physical exercise helps a lot in solving ED problems. The foods to avoid: alcohol and any soft drinks; soy-based items and licorice, all of which decrease testosterone levels. Smoking is a major cause. Obesity is another factor. A high intake of red meat and processed meats also increases the risk for ED, besides cancer. Anti-ED pills like Viagra, sildenafil, and Levitra could be tried, together with the antiED foods recommended above. Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid), B3 (niacin), and C (ascorbic acid) are also suggested by some studies. If all those above do not help, counseling is recommended. Warning: There are dozens PAGE 13

the camera to take the photos of the directors. Yes, it’s the big swap we didn’t see coming!” the festival announced in revealing that John Lloyd is the event’s official photographer. The announcement included, “Dalawang araw nakasama ng mga CINEMALAYA 18 filmmakers ang aktor na si JOHN LLOYD CRUZ para kuhaan sila ng portraits. Sino kaya sa mga filmmakers ang qinilig?!” It continued with, “Ugh! I don’t get jealous, I can’t be jealous, I’ve never been jealous – ngayon lang!” This part of the announcement was a line from the John Lloyd-Sarah Geronimo movie “You Changed My Life.” According to an article in the Philippine Star, it was painterphotographer MM Yu, a recipient of 13 Artist Awards from the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) who had recommended John Lloyd to Cinemalaya. The actor’s photos will on display the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival opens on August 5 at the CCP. *** Luiz Manzano recently revealed in a YouTube vlog of Francine Diaz that he has had moments where he thought about quitting showbiz. “Yes,” he answered quickly when asked by Diaz, although the lie detector test seemed to contract the TV host. He confirmed it by saying, “It’s true… other people don’t know what goes on in the industry. What they see most of the time

Instagram photo/@officialsb19

is the glitz and glamour, the finished product of how sweet it is to be an artist, the nice income. But if they only knew how… and I mean I won’t play around with words as I am matured already… how dirty the industry is, what really happens.” “People will never understand. They think it’s easy to talk about other people. People have no idea how easy it is to ride (or pile along) on an issue. And that’s what people don’t understanding – it’s easy to do, enjoy, talk with other people and the other stuff,” he added. “If you don’t have a strong heart and mind, it will eat you up. When negativities are raining down on you, you get to thinking, ‘Why did I not choose to live a normal, peaceful life?’,” he further stated. When he begins to have these thoughts, Luiz thinks how blessed an opportunity he has to be able to give joy to his fans. “At the same time, you realize that what has been given to us is a blessing, and that other people don’t have this kind of opportunity. That when you just smile for the camera, or you take one picture like when someone asks to take a photo with you in the mall, with the 10 seconds you give to them, whatever problems they may be having that day they will forget [for a time] because of you,” Luis said. “For me, that’s what I return to when I start thinking about quitting or taking a sabbatical,” he added.

Mayor Breed announces return of Summer Together Initiative with kickoff of National Summer Learning Week A collaboration between City departments, School District, public and private sector partners, the Initiative provides 30,000 free or low cost in-person learning experiences for children and youth SAN FRANCISCO — Mayor London N. Breed on Tuesday, July 12 announced the return of San Francisco’s Summer Together Initiative, which also coincides with this week’s National Summer Learning Week. As part of this year’s programming, citywide events and activities will elevate the importance of keeping kids engaged, safe, and healthy every summer to ensure a school-ready return for the following academic year. “As San Francisco kids continue to recover from the impacts brought on by the COVID pandemic, it is critical for us to do all that we can to support their academic and social needs,” said Mayor Breed. “We know that when we provide young people with resources and opportunities to succeed, they will go on to do great things. This partnership is an example of what San Francisco can do when we come together for the betterment of our youth.” Now in its second year, the Summer Together Initiative supports the physical health, emotional well-being, and educational achievements of San Francisco’s children and youth, especially those in communities that have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 pandemic, by offering free or low cost in-person experiences. In 2022, 30,000 free or low cost in-person learning experiences for children and youth are provided employing more than 4,000 educators, youth development professionals, and support staff throughout the summer months. Summer Together programs will operate at over 300 neighborhood sites across the city. “Through the COVID-19 pandemic and our recovery efforts, San Francisco has demonstrated its deep commitment to keeping our children, youth, and families safe, healthy, and resilient,” said Maria Su, Director, DCYF. “This summer, we will continue to do

whatever it takes to strengthen, improve, and expand our programming to meet the needs of our children and youth as they overcome learning loss, and improve their emotional and mental well-being. Summer Together is critical for our goal to ensure every child and youth in our city leads lives full of opportunity and happiness.” Summer Together is led by the Department of Children, Youth and Their Families (DCYF), in partnership with the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department (RPD), San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD), San Francisco Education Fund and over 100 community-based agencies and private camps. “Summer is a magical time for kids, and we are thrilled to partner with the Mayor and DCYF to provide opportunities for fun and enrichment for all, from girls’ skateboarding to teen adaptive recreation to swimming lessons and arts and sports camps,” said Phil Ginsburg, General Manager, San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department. “This summer, Rec and Park is offering 10,000 camp slots at 42 different locations. In addition, we’ve provided more than 1,000 children with over $1 million in scholarships.” “We are grateful to work with our city partners to provide students with a wide range of opportunities to continue learning over the summer months,” SFUSD Superintendent Dr. Matt Wayne said. “From STEM and literacy-focused programs to over 800 high school student internships, there are educational opportunities available to thousands of students in San Francisco through the summer.” Funding for the Summer Together Initiative comes from a mix of private and public funds. This year, the Crankstart Foundation provided $20 million to enhance and expand summer programming experiences, including mental health supports; literacy and math supports;

family support incentives and youth stipends; private camp scholarships; and a literacy and math summer and school year pilot. “The San Francisco Education Fund is proud to support the Summer Together Initiative for a second consecutive year as a partner,” said Stacey Wang, San Francisco Education Fund CEO. “We're honored to help provide important summer learning opportunities for San Francisco youth to minimize summer slide, forge friendships and learn new skills in summer camps across the city.” “Summer Together has been a wonderful opportunity to bring Renegade Girls STEM camps to a diverse group of kids,” said Vicky Keston, Co-Founder and CEO, Renegade Girls. “Renegade started our camp to help address the gender divide in STEM fields; Summer Together helps us to reach more children who are underrepresented in STEM.” The YMCA of San Francisco, one of hundreds of summer camps participating in the Mayor’s Summer Together Initiative, will host the graduation ceremony for their Power Scholar’s Academy this week. The YMCA’s Power Scholars graduation is one of 47 National Summer Learning Week events that will take place across the city. “Summer is a vital time to address learning loss that occurs for too many of our youth. There are over 1,200 at-risk youth enrolled in the Power Scholars Academy, our summer learning loss prevention program. During the pandemic, more youth are at risk of falling behind academically,” shared YMCA of San Francisco CEO Jamie Bruning-Miles. “Our program gives youth and their families back their power and confidence to achieve academically mitigating learning loss in math and literacy. Our 2022 Scholars graduate this week and we are excited to see the results!” (SF Mayor’s Office Release)

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SBA announces funding opportunity Seth and Andrea on the challenges to provide entrepreneurship training of being their families’ breadwinners to service-disabled veterans by Marinel

Cruz

Inquirer.net

WASHINGTON – On Wednesday, July 20, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced a new funding opportunity for eligible non-profit organizations, state and local government agencies, private sector firms, and institutions of higher learning to provide entrepreneurship training to service-disabled veterans. The awarded organization(s) can use the funding to market, deliver, and scale existing servicedisabled veteran entrepreneurs' training programs for veterans, service-disabled veterans, and Reserve component members who intend to start new businesses or expand existing small businesses. “In line with the Biden-Harris Administration's priorities, the SBA continues to work to remove barriers for service-disabled veterans who are interested in pursuing entrepreneurship after their military career,” said Larry Stubblefield, Associate Administrator for SBA's Office of Veterans Business Development. “Through this funding opportunity, awarded organizations will help us extend

our reach to the service-disabled veteran small business community to help them succeed at every stage of their entrepreneurial journey.” The Service-Disabled Veteran Entrepreneurship Training Program (SDVTEP) award is for a base project period of 12 months, with three 12-month non-compete continuation year periods. A total of $300,000 in funding is available for this program in FY 2022. SBA anticipates making up to six (6) awards, each valued between a minimum of $50,000 up to a maximum award of $150,000. How to apply: • For specific instructions on obtaining, completing, and submitting an application, visit www.grants.gov and search SB-OVSD-22-001. • Submissions must be sent via grants.gov no later than 11:59 p.m. ET on August 18, 2022. Proposals submitted via other media will be rejected and will not be evaluated. • SBA's Office of Veterans Business Development will host an information session to answer questions about the funding

opportunity on Wednesday, July 27, 2022, at 2 p.m. ET via this Microsoft Teams link. • To join by phone instead, dial (202)765-1264 and enter the conference ID: 760265504#. Please submit your questions no later than Friday, July 22 at 5 p.m. ET to Jerry Godwin at jerry. godwin@sba.gov. For issues with grants. gov, please call the grants.gov support line at 1-800-518-4726 or email support@grants.gov. The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. (SBA Release)

Miracle of life

PAGE 12 of herbals and over-the-counter drugs, some sold on the streets which have not been officially approved and could have potentially serious side effects. A healthy lifestyle, including diet, weight control, exercise, no smoking, disciplined alcohol intake, a positive attitude, and responsible behavior could help provide confidence and a happy performance in the bedroom. Sex is vital and has dozens of benefits to our health. Making

our partners happy is the key to and not intended to be applicable or appropriate a blessed and comfortable home. for anyone. This column is not a substitute for *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information

your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday. com, and philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@

‘Loveless’ Pokwang and Rabiya put work... PAGE 12 or food. Even if she has been in the industry for a long time, her heart is still there in whatever she does,” she related. Answered prayer “We have different backgrounds, humor and personalities, but when you combine us, it’s a riot. I’m still new and have a lot to learn. And

hindi siya maramot,” she added. One thing Rabiya enjoys about hosting is that she can be herself and make fun of her mistakes—a far cry from her pageant days, where she was expected to be prim and proper. “I get to show the real me,” she said. Because Pokwang knew Rabiya as a beauty queen, the comedienne expected the

show biz newbie to act more conservatively. “Pero walang arte,” said Pokwang, who enjoys hosting because it reminds her of her comedy bar days. “It’s an answered prayer. This is what I love to do. I started out in comedy bars and I thrive on the stage, talking on the microphone and seeing the people’s reaction. I’m an entertainer,” she said.

GIVE yourself time to cry and rant; allow yourself to feel tired. Once you’re done with all these, take a deep breath and reflect on the real reason you are doing things.” Thus said actor Seth Fedelin as a way of paying tribute to young family breadwinners like him. “Be proud of yourself, especially those of you who weren’t forced, but personally chose to help your families financially. I salute you! On your own, you’ve learned the importance of being able to provide a better life for your families,” the 20-year-old pointed out. “But just like everyone else, you’re only human. It’s normal for you to feel tired, to feel hurt, or angry. Allow yourself to feel these emotions. After this, simply look at the faces of the people who are smiling at you—they are your siblings, parents, grandparents, who are happily watching the flat screen smart TV that you bought for them,” he added. Solid support system Andrea Brillantes, who is promoting her last project with Seth, Dolly Dulu’s “Lyric & Beat,” couldn’t agree more. Like Seth, Andrea is also the family breadwinner. “My advice to you is to make your family aware of how difficult it is for you to be the one to provide for them financially. This is so that they will develop empathy, so that they will be more appreciative of what you do for them. I started working when I was 10 years old. It had been really hard for me. Luckily, now that my siblings are older, our relationship has improved. I now have a solid support system at home,” she said. Andrea added that it’s best to find friends who are in a similar situation, “because the things that breadwinners go through can only be appreciated by fellow breadwinners.” The actress, who admitted to having broken up with Seth in 2021 but has remained good friends with him, added: “If, like me, you already have that kind of friend in your life, then I’m happy for you. You now have a sturdy shoulder to cry on. Meanwhile, to those who haven’t, you have God to guide you. If things are hard

Seth Fedelin and Andrea Brillantes

at home, I just lock myself up in my room, kneel and cry to Him. I always feel better after I do that.” Important decisions Seth added that as a breadwinner, you will sometimes be forced to make important decisions on your own, “but make sure you have your parents backing you up. That’s why they’re here.” He told Inquirer Entertainment: “My being a breadwinner does not mean my parents no longer have a say on what I can and cannot do. After all, I have no one else to lean on but them if I later realize that I’ve made a bad choice. They are there to tell you the possible consequences of what you are about to do because, chances are, they’ve already experienced this when they were younger.” Andrea agreed and added that she would often ask for a family meeting before agreeing on or turning down a movie or TV project. “They help me make decisions by presenting options. They encourage me to say ‘yes’ if they believe I can do something but is just not feeling too confident about myself. They also explain why they think I should just let an offer go. While I do the leg

Photo from Instagram/@imsethfedelin

work, my mom and eldest sister help me with other things. We’re a good team.” Seth and Andrea, who, before disbanding were collectively known as SethDrea, are promoting the first-ever iWantTFC original musical series “Lyric and Beat,” which will start streaming on Aug. 10. Interesting subplot Andrea plays Lyric, a bubbly and aspiring singer who will form a special friendship with Beat (Seth), a soft-spoken dancer. The series also stars Darren Espanto, AC Bonifacio, Jeremy G, Angela Ken, Sheena Belarmino, Awra Briguela and Kyle Echarri. While the series is all about a group of individuals striving to fulfill their dreams, Seth said Lyric and Beat also have an interesting subplot. “They are a tag-team. While they are part of Team Werpa, Beat is mostly just focused on Lyric,” he explained. “We will be part of a love triangle—something which the audience has to watch out for—but in the end, we’re really partners. A song will not be complete without a beat or without lyrics. Our characters are like that to each other,” added Andrea.

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JULY 22-28, 2022 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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