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AUGUST 5-11, 2022 Serving San Diego Since 1987 • 12 Pages

T h e F i l i p i n o –A m e r i c A n c o m m u n i T y n e w s pA p e r

Also published in LOS ANGELES • ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE • NORTHERN CALIFORNIA • NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY • LAS VEGAS

USA

DATELINE LA County to start administering Novavax COVID-19 vaccine FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

LOS Angeles vaccination sites will start administering the Novavax vaccine beginning Wednesday, August 3. The Novavax vaccine was recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) earlier this month. Unlike the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, the Novavax vaccine was developed without the use of mRNA technology. The vaccine was found to be 90% effective against mild, moderate, and severe disease in the company’s Phase 3 clinical trial involving 30,000 participants ages 18 and older. Residents 18 years and older can get the Novavax vaccine, which is a twodose primary series, with the second dose administered three weeks after the first. Boosters are currently not recommended and the Novavax vaccine is not yet authorized for children 17 and younger. Residents can walk into any Public Health vaccination location to receive the vaccine. Residents can also contact their provider to

550 East 8th St., Suite 6, National City, CA 91950 Tel: (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588 • Email: info@asianjournalinc.com

California declares state of emergency over monkeypox by AJPress AS part of California’s ongoing response to the monkeypox outbreak, Governor Gavin Newsom on August 1 declared a State of Emergency to bolster the state’s vaccination efforts. The proclamation supports the work underway

by the California Department of Public Health and others in the administration to coordinate a wholeof-government response to monkeypox, seek additional vaccines and lead outreach and education efforts on accessing vaccines and treatment. “California is working urgently across all levels of government to slow the spread of monkeypox, leveraging our robust testing, contact tracing and

FOR the last decade, it’s been known that Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) voters comprise the fastest growing electorate in the United States. However, a recent study shows that AAPI voters are still largely ignored by political parties and organizations, rendering the diverse community underrepresented when it comes to policy decisions. The Asian American Voter Survey — which was released on Monday, July 25 by a coalition of AAPI-focused organizations — observed current political attitudes and voting behaviors among Asian American voters at a time whenthe spotlight is pointed at the collective civic AAPI identity. The survey’s main takeaway is that even though more than two-thirds of AAPI registered voters are planning to vote in the upcoming midterm election, less than half

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Former President Fidel V. Ramos

Inquirer.net file photo

Former President Fidel Ramos dies at 94

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Majority of AAPI voters have never been contacted by political parties, survey finds

community partnerships strengthened during the pandemic to ensure that those most at risk are our focus for vaccines, treatment and outreach,” said Newsom. “We’ll continue to work with the federal government to secure more vaccines, raise awareness about reducing risk, and stand with the LGBTQ community fighting stigmatization.”

by Zacarian

Sarao

Inquirer.net

WAKE VISIT. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. visits the wake of former president Fidel V. Ramos on Thursday, Aug. 4 at the Heritage Park in Taguig City. Also in the photo is Ramos’ widow, former first lady Amelita “Ming” Martinez-Ramos. PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr

MANILA — Former President Fidel Valdez Ramos passed away at the age of 94 on Sunday, July 31. The Ramos family confirmed the passing of the former president on Sunday night but gave no further details. “The Ramos family is profoundly saddened to announce the passing of former President Fidel

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Pulse Asia survey: Filipinos trust the United States the most; China, Russia the least

MANILA — Filipinos are generally more trustful towards the United States while strongly wary of China and Russia, new survey results released by Pulse Asia suggest. The survey results released to the media Friday morning, July 29, found that the Filipinos felt a “fair amount of trust” should be afforded to the United Kingdom, South

Korea, Japan, Indonesia, the United States, Germany and Australia. Those countries made up seven out of the ten countries the survey asked respondents about. The remaining countries were India, Russia and China, for whom 48%, 62% and 67% of respondents said they had “not too much trust” or “no trust at all,” respectively.

Fil-Am group More contagious, launches campaign evasive ‘Centaurus’ vs anti-Asian hate u PAGE 3

in PH, says DOH by Kathleen de Inquirer.net

Jo Koy (middle) and film producer Dan Lim (extreme right) with officers of fundraiser recipient Search to Involve Pilipino Americans. Photo courtesy of SIPA

Jo Koy and friends raise $75K for Fil-Am nonprofit in Los Angeles

The recipient, Search to Involve Pilipino COMEDIAN Jo Koy and film producer Dan Lin raised $75,000 in donations for a Americans (SIPA), helps the growth of small Filipino American nonprofit in Los Angeles businesses among low-income immigrant during the Rise for Comedy festival on communities in Los Angeles. Jo Koy, who is promoting his breakthrough Thursday, July 28 at Historic Filipinotown’s Rideback Ranch. u PAGE 3

Photo courtesy of Pilipino Workers Center

Villa

MANILA — Another emerging Omicron subvariant, given the moniker “Centaurus” in social and mainstream media, has found its way into the country with two individuals in Central Visayas testing positive for the virus, the Department of Health (DOH) announced on Tuesday, August 2. Officially named BA.2.75 by the World Health Organization (WHO), it is believed to be more contagious and capable of dodging immune defenses provided by COVID-19 vaccines. Officer in charge Maria Rosario Vergeire of the Department of Health (DOH) said in

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by AJPress

A LOS Angeles-based Filipino American organization is raising awareness on anti-Asian hate through cultural programing and sharing stories of community members. Pilipino Workers Center, which is located in Historic Filipinotown, launched the “Stop AAPI Hate” campaign and hosted a private in-person concert for Filipino human trafficking survivors, victims of hate and racism, and community social justice advocates, featuring OPM artists, Noel Cabangon and Gab Cabangon. The cultural event was held on July 27, 2022 at PWC’s

headquarters in HiFi. Through the event, the grassroots nonprofit organization aims to build a community of support and open dialogue around combating hate and racism towards the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. “Even though it’s a Stop The Hate program, it’s really love that brings us together. It’s the love for each other as people, wanting to protect each other, protect our dignity as a community. We feel the hurt and we feel the pain when we see our AAPI elders, our sisters and

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AUGUST 5-11, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

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From The FronT Page

Philippines to assert arbitral ruling California declares state of emergency... at ASEAN foreign ministers’ meet

in 2022, the process of building the ASEAN Community, the directions for ASEAN MANILA — The Philippines development for 2025, COVID-19 ASEAN external will assert the 2016 arbitral response, ruling on the South China Sea relations, ASEAN centrality, as issue at the ASEAN Foreign well as other relevant regional Ministers’ Meeting in Phnom and international issues. On July 12, Manalo rejected Penh, Cambodia next month, the Department of Foreign Affairs attempts by China to undermine (DFA) said on Thursday, July 28. the ruling, saying the tribunal’s “Secretary Manalo is expected findings are “indisputable.” Manalo made the statement to assert the 1982 UNCLOS (United Nations Convention during the 6th anniversary of the on the Law of the Sea) and the Award on the South China Sea arbitral award as the twin anchors Arbitration. He said the award and the of our actions and policies on the South China Sea,” said DFA UNCLOS are the twin anchors Assistant Secretary for ASEAN of the Philippines’ policy and Affairs Daniel Espiritu, referring actions on the maritime issue. Meanwhile, China has to DFA chief Enrique Manalo. The 55th ASEAN Foreign downplayed a warning by U.S. Ministers’ Meeting will be held officials of rising cases of Chinese in Phnom Penh from Aug. 2 to 6. provocations in the South China At the meeting, the foreign Sea targeting other states with ministers will be discussing maritime claims in the region. The Chinese Foreign Ministry ASEAN priorities for cooperation by Pia Lee-Brago Philstar.com

said the US officials’ remarks misrepresented the facts as the South China Sea is the common home of countries in the region. On July 26, deputy assistant secretary for East Asia at the State Department Jung Pak told a U.S. think tank event that Chinese provocations were increasing. U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense Ely Ratner warned that considering China’s behavior, it would only be “a matter of time” before a major incident occurs in the region. Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian debunked the U.S. officials’ claim but admitted, “we are soberly aware that the South China Sea is not entirely tranquil.” He noted that China and ASEAN countries jointly commemorated the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South

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PAGE 1 To expand vaccination efforts, the proclamation enables Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel to administer monkeypox vaccines that are approved by the FDA, similar to the statutory authorization recently enacted for pharmacists to administer vaccines. The state’s response to monkeypox builds on the infrastructure developed during the COVID-19 pandemic to deploy vaccine clinics and ensure inclusive and targeted outreach in partnership with local and community-based organizations. Last month, California public health leaders urged federal partners to make more vaccine doses available to the state as quickly as possible so that the state can expand eligibility to both confirmed and probable exposures, as well as to individuals who are at high-risk of contracting the virus. To date, the state has distributed more than 25,000 vaccine doses and will make additional allocations in the coming days and weeks. Los Angeles County has received a separate allocation of vaccine. In all, the state has received more than 61,000 doses. The state is also supporting overall vaccination efforts in collaboration with locals, including helping provide staffing and mobile clinics. The state allocates doses to local health

departments based on a number of factors, including the number of reported monkeypox cases in an area and estimate of at-risk populations. As of July 28, the state had expanded its testing capacity to process more than 1,000 tests a week. The state’s public health laboratory leaders have been working with local public health, academic, and commercial laboratories to ensure testing capacity is increasingly available and coordinated with the public health response. CDPH is also expanding treatment options. Access to the antiviral prescription drug tecovirimat (TPOXX) used to treat monkeypox is limited, but the treatment can now be administered at more than 30 facilities and providers across the state. The state continues outreach and education efforts to inform Californians about monkeypox and ways to limit its spread. The state has hosted multiple webinars for local health departments, community-based organizations, and other health care providers and has attended various town halls and community meetings to speak with and hear from the public and local leaders. CDPH is also scheduling listening sessions with the LGBTQ community. CDPH is currently running paid ad campaigns on various digital media platforms to promote awareness and engage communities at higher risk of contracting monkeypox. n

Former President Fidel Ramos dies at... PAGE 1 Valdez Ramos,” the family said in an official statement. “We thank you all for respecting our privacy, as the family takes some time to grieve together,” the family added. According to the Ramos family, wake and funeral arrangements for the former president will later be announced. Meanwhile, Senator Bong Revilla also issued a statement confirming the death of Ramos, whom he said was the one who convinced him to get involved in public service through the Lakas–Christian Muslim Democrats, or Lakas–CMD, which he now serves as a cochairperson. Lakas–CMD is the political party founded by Ramos, together with Raul Manglapus. “Hindi matatawaran ang naging pamana ni FVR sa bansa. Sa pamamagitan ng kanyang pamumuno ay umahon ang Pilipinas mula sa mga krisis na bumabalot sa bawat pilipino ng mga panahong iyon,” said Revilla. (FVR’s legacy to the country

cannot be underestimated. Through his leadership, the Philippines emerged from the crises that enveloped every Filipino at that time) According to Revilla, Ramos’ legacy is the “foundation upon which later administrations have built upon,”transforming the country from being “the sick man of Asia to the Tiger of the Region.” “While the passing of our Chairman Emeritus is a great loss to our Party, it does not compare to the loss of our country. He was one of the best!” he added. Ramos, who was known as “FVR” served as the 12th president of the Philippines from 1992 to 1998. ‘Matter of destiny’ Writing the foreword for the book “Behind the Red Pen” penned by his close aide, Jojo Terencio that was published in 2021, Ramos said he considered the presidency as both an honor and a privilege that served as a feather to his cap, which started with a career in the military. Ramos, in the book’s foreword, added that the

presidency is a “matter of destiny.” “I totally agree. A person can plan or aspire to become one all his or her life, but ultimately, the confluence of many things — people, the current political milieu, events, chance, and the candidates personality — will bring the presidency to the Anointed One. Destiny,” Ramos wrote in the foreword. Ramos, in the foreword, also recalled that when he joined the 1992 presidential race, he was fully aware of his duty to give the people a “better quality of life by building on the grains of democracy.” “So many things have happened since then but I have strong faith in the Filipino people, our leaders and the country’s future. We continue to aspire for a better life for all, and we will continue to work together to make it happen,” he said. Ramos ended the foreword with his famous inspirational quip: “Kaya ba natin ito? Kayang-kaya basta tayo ay sama-sama!” (Can we do this? We can! If we just work together!) n

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Pulse Asia survey: Filipinos trust the... PAGE 1 “In the case of Russia, nearly the same percentages of adults are of the view that the Philippines must extend either a fair amount or not too much trust in the said country (31% versus 36%). While as far as China is concerned, virtually the same percentages say the Philippines should either trust China a little (36%) or not trust the said country at all,” Pulse Asia said. Of note, 31% of interviewees said they felt that the Philippines should extend “a great deal of trust” to the United States, the country’s longest ally both militarily and economically. 22% said the same for Japan. “For the most part, public opinion on the matter is essentially constant between September 2019 and June 2022,” Pulse Asia said. In that time span, trust in Australia, China, and Great Britain improved by up to seven percentage points, while Filipinos who said the country should not trust South Korea too much also dropped by seven percentage points. Pulse Asia conducted face-toface interviews with 1,200 adult

“Secretary Manalo is expected to assert the 1982 UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) and the arbitral award as the twin anchors of our actions and policies on the South China Sea,” said DFA Assistant Secretary for ASEAN Affairs Daniel Espiritu, referring to DFA chief Enrique Manalo. Philstar file photo

Filipinos from June 24 to 27 and reported error margins of ±2.8% good for a 95% confidence level. ‘Enemy of none’ Over his six years in office, former president Rodrigo Duterte was largely antagonistic towards the United States, which found itself on the receiving end of not-so-diplomatic rants while the then-chief executive cozied up to China. After a 75-year history of diplomatic relations, Duterte time and time again threatened

to scrap the Visiting Forces Agreement, which outlines the agreement for military exercises between the Philippines and the U.S. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at his first State of the Nation Address on Monday, July 25, said that he would push for an independent foreign policy of being a “friend to all and enemy of none.” “I will not preside over any process that will abandon even a square inch of territory of the Republic of the Philippines to any foreign power...If we agree, we will cooperate and work together. If we differ, we will talk more until we agree,” he said. “But we will not waver, we will stand firm in our independent foreign policy, with the national interest as our primordial guide. We commit to maintaining good relations with the rest of the world,” he added. Diplomats have met Marcos to discuss cooperation between the Philippines and their respective states. — Franco Luna with reports from Kaycee Valmonte (Philstar. com) n

Jo Koy and friends raise $75K... PAGE 1 film “Easter Sunday,” hosted the event. He also has a Netflix special coming in September. Koy and Lin presented a $25,000 check to SIPA board officers Edward Malicdem, Jennifer Taylor, Rachel Buenviaje and Rita Garcia, Variety reported. The comedian matched the donation and then put the CEO of production company Rideback on the spot by asking him to fork over another $25,000, raising the total to $75,000. “You should have seen him sweat; I have never heard the sound of sweat until now,” he joked,

according to Variety. A panel on Asian American representation in news and entertainment started the evening, moderated by Kathy K. Im, director of journalism and media at the MacArthur Foundation. Among the panelists were Los Angeles Times TV critic Lorraine Ali, CNN reporter Lisa Ling, Panda Express Chief Brand Officer Andrea Cherng and UTA’s Jacqueline Kim, Variety reported. Capping the event was a stand-up comedy routine from AAPI comedians that included Jimmy O. Yang, Ronny Chieng, Fahim Anwar and Andrew Lopez. (Inquirer.net) n

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AUGUST 5-11, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

JOBSEEKERS. Applicants browse through the job postings on the board during the relaunch of the PESO on the Road: Barangayan Job Fair at the Paradise Heights covered court, Balut, Tondo in Barangay 128, District I, Manila on Thursday, August 4. Among the jobs offered were room attendant or housekeeping, carpenter, electricians, technicians, among others. PNA photo by Ben Briones

Majority of AAPI voters... PAGE 1 have been contacted by the major parties. What’s more is that 52% of Asian Americans said they haven’t been contacted by the Democratic Party while 60% haven’t been contacted by the Republican Party. Among Filipinos who surveyed, 52% said that the Democratic Party hadn’t reached out to them and 57% said that the Republican Party hasn’t reached out to them. “Asian American communities, despite the progress we have made and increasing political power, are still being ignored by many politicians, to their detriment,” said Christine Chen, director of APIAVote. Among the “extremely important” issues among these subjects included health care, education, economy, public safety, and gun control. Notably, Filipinos were the largest group who considered health care (66%) an extremely important issue when deciding who and what to vote for. “Many people, including candidates, think about Asian Americans as very single-dimensional or dual-dimension, but they don’t think about these complexities and how to really appeal to the broader Asian American agenda,” Janelle Wong, co-director of AAPI Data, said in a press briefing. Following the trends shown in past surveys, the majority of the subjects of this survey support Democratic or left-leaning lawmakers and politicians. As a whole, 56% of Asian Americans consider themselves more left-leaning. However, Filipinos in the survey had the second-largest share of self-identified Republican or conservative voters, with 32% identifying as such. Likewise, 54% of Filipinos surveyed reported leaning more toward Democratic ideology. About 54% said they would vote for Democrats in congressional races and a majority agreed with generally liberal ideals: a more streamlined citizenship system, stricter gun laws, opposing bans on books and critical race theory, to name a few. Notably, 73% of Asian Americans today worry about hate crimes and harassment, which is likely due to the uptick in anti-Asian hate incidents over the last two-and-a-half years. The survey was conducted in June 2022 and consisted of 1,601 voters of Chinese, Filipino, Indian, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese descent. This survey’s main limitation is the makeup of its subjects as the Asian diaspora in America comprises of dozens more broad ethnic groups. However, this survey is only one of a few dedicated to the Asian American voting bloc, and the researchers are confident that more disaggregated data will lead to more race and ethicity-inclusive policies and attitudes among seats of power. Jiny Kim, vice president of policy and programs at Asian Americans Advancing Justice, said in a statement, “Asian Americans are part of a diverse community comprising over 50 different ethnicities and 100 different languages, so it is critical that we conduct this survey every two years because often we are either left out of the polling data or considered an afterthought in the numbers that get reported.” (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress) n

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Fil-Am group launches campaign vs... PAGE 1 brothers so brutally attacked. It calls us together as a community to do something. And in this moment, it’s important for us to understand what’s happening so that we can all come from a place of love,” said PWC Executive Director Aquilina Soriano Versoza. PWC’s “Stop AAPI Hate” campaign launch and concert with Noel Cabangon coincides with the Philippines’ “Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino” (Week of Filipino Music). In the private event, Noel Cabangon and his son, Gab Cabangon, performed a variety of songs dedicated to Filipino survivors of trauma and racism. According to Cabangon, the issue is very close to his heart since a family member of his also became a victim of a recent hate incident in New York. Noel Cabangon is a multiawarded singer, composer and musician, and is well-known for popularizing songs that evoke positive change in the community by uplifting human rights, environmental and social justice. His son, Gab Cabangon is also a singer/songwriter and is the frontman of the KE band from the Philippines. The repertoire from both Gab and Noel Cagangon’s musical performances were centered on bringing joy to the Filipino community amidst their struggles, sparking hope and healing, and encouraging

Photos courtesy of Pilipino Workers Center

strength and resilience. Noel Cabangon also invited members of the Filipino community to the stage for an impromptu jam session of OPM hits, which was then followed by community singing of popular Filipino songs. “I know it sounds simple but listening to music really helps improve my emotional health and helps in my journey towards healing. I am grateful to Pilipino Workers Center and to Noel Cabangon for making this event possible. Napa-jamming at napasaya nila kaming lahat ngayong gabi!” said Lloyd, PWC member and trauma survivor, now based in Los Angeles. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, an alarming trend of individual acts of hate, from verbal harassment to physical assault, have been

directed toward Asians. And more recently, incidents of hate crimes against Chinese, Filipinos and other individuals from the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community have been reported all over the United States. A national report from the Stop AAPI Hate campaign indicate the following national trends: • Verbal harassment (63.0%) continues to make up the biggest share of total incident reported. • Physical assault (16.2%) comprises the second largest category of total reported incidents followed by the deliberate avoidance of AAPIs (16.1%). • Almost half (48.7% of all hate incidents took place in public spaces - in public streets (31.2%), public transit (8.4%),

and public parks (8.0%). “The history of this country was actually founded on racism. From the beginning, our economy was built on slavery,” said Versoza. “It’s not new to the AAPI community that this is happening. This is larger. So, our solutions have to be larger than the incidents. In order to change the narrative and hold people accountable to what is happening in this pandemic.” The organization’s “Stop AAPI Hate” campaign uses cultural events, healing workshops, bystander intervention trainings and educational programs to build solidarity and find ways to protect AAPI communities. The concert is just one of many events and programs that PWC plans to implement within the coming months. n

LA County to start administering Novavax... PAGE 1 see if their provider is offering Novavax. California Health & Human Services Agency Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly, and Director of the California Department of Public Health and State Public Health Officer Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, issued a joint statement on Novavax’s COVID-19 vaccine being newly authorized for use in the United States to combat COVID-19. This statement follows the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup’s support of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendation. “We’re excited to have a new tool in our COVID-19 toolbox here in the United States, and the Novavax vaccine provides another safe and effective option for unvaccinated adults. Novavax will now join Pfizer and Moderna as recommended options to stay better protected against the most severe outcomes of COVID-19. Californians can rest assured that Novavax meets the FDA’s rigorous standards of safety and efficacy that are required when receiving emergency use authorization.”

“The Novavax vaccine was developed using protein-based technology instead of mRNA technology. FDA-approved proteinbased vaccines have been used widely for decades and include vaccines to prevent hepatitis B and shingles. Novavax is authorized as a two-dose primary series, given three to eight weeks apart, in individuals ages 18 and older. “COVID-19 vaccines continue to be our most powerful tool to prevent serious illness and remain a critical aid against fastspreading variants, as we’re seeing with Omicron BA.5 and BA.4 right now. While Novavax won’t be available for a few more weeks, we urge Californians who have not yet been vaccinated or are eligible for a booster to make an appointment today. “Since the start of the pandemic, the State has administered over 78 million COVID-19 vaccine doses – more than any other state. Staying up to date on vaccination remains the best way to prevent hospitalization and death from COVID-19, including for our youngest children. Find a COVID-19 vaccine near you at myturn. ca.gov or by calling 1-833-422-4255.” (AJPress) n

More contagious, evasive ‘Centaurus’ in PH, says... PAGE 1 a media forum that the infected individuals in the Visayas were the first two confirmed cases of BA.2.75, according to the results of the genome sequencing run from July 30 to Aug. 1. One of them was unvaccinated, while the other got only one shot of a COVID-19 jab, the health undersecretary said. Although both have already recovered, Vergeire said their exposure and travel histories were still being verified. “Based on studies, this is more transmissible and more immune evasive than BA.5. But there is no evidence saying that it can cause more severe infections,” Vergeire told reporters. Social media roots First detected in India in July, BA.2.75 is a new sublineage of the Omicron strain, which has been blamed for multiple rounds of COVID-19 surges globally this year. The WHO has classified BA.2.75 as “Omicron subvariants under monitoring,” along with BA.5, BA.4, and BA.2.12.1. The nickname Centaurus, a constellation in astronomy and a creature in Greek mythology that is half horse and half human, was traced to a certain Twitter user named Xabier Ostale, who tweets about COVID-19— and lately about monkeypox—and how to stay safe. In a post last month, Ostale said he was fed up with the Greek alphabet system used by the WHO, and that he would name BA.2.75 after the galaxy Centaurus. This caught on in social media and traditional media such as Forbes and Fortune magazines and The Guardian newspaper started using the term in reporting on the BA.2.75 subvariant. It has since been detected in more than a

dozen other countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, and Canada. Both the WHO and the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) have designated it a “variant under monitoring,” indicating that it could be more transmissible, although the evidence that it could lead to more severe disease is reportedly currently weak. The WHO continues to refer to it as an Omicron sublineage until it starts to behave differently from other Omicron subvariants and exhibits a strong public health impact, during which it would be given a separate Greek name. More Omicron cases Meanwhile, the DOH said 1,015 more cases of BA.5, another highly transmissible Omicron subvariant, were reported in the same genome sequencing data where the Centaurus was detected. Of the number, 883 had already recovered. More than half, or 527 of them, were fully vaccinated, 12 have not completed their primary series, and 16 were yet to get jabbed. The vaccination status of the rest was still being verified. Western Visayas (305), Metro Manila (209), and Calabarzon (122) were the top regions where the BA.5 infections were found, the DOH said. There were also 26 new cases of BA.4, of whom 21 had already recovered; while 18 additional cases of BA.2.12.1 were detected, 13 of whom had been cleared. Despite the continued upswing in COVID-19 infections, the country remained at low risk for transmission, Vergeire said. However, Metro Manila is at moderate risk for posting an average daily attack rate

(Adar) of 8.16 cases per 100,000 individuals. On Monday, August 1, the DOH reported that the national weekly positivity rate for COVID-19 infection jumped to 16.7 percent — or more than triple the WHO’s ideal threshold of 5 percent. The country, however, remained at a low-risk classification despite the increase in positivity rate as the average daily Adar remained at a low 2.9 cases per 100,000 population. Low risk status Vergeire said that the continuous increase in cases did not translate to an increase in COVID-19 admissions as the number of severe and critical cases continued to be below 1,000, with the majority of hospital admissions being a combination of mild and asymptomatic cases. The health-care utilization rate was also at low risk nationwide. So far, 71.7 million Filipinos have been vaccinated against COVID-19, including 9.7 million adolescents, 4.1 million children, and 6.8 million senior citizens. However, less than a third of those eligible for boosters have received their shots. The government has warned that the number of reported COVID-19 infections could reach as high as 19,306 a day by Aug. 31, if vaccination and booster rates, as well as compliance with minimum public health standards, would not improve. The DOH said that if both vaccination and booster shot numbers would improve, the daily cases might hover between 6,000 and 8,000 cases a day. Health experts have been pushing for a ramped-up vaccination drive especially with the impending return of in-person classes starting this month. n

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SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 5-11, 2022

Dateline PhiliPPines

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More than a hundred bills lapsed into law As tensions rise in Taiwan Strait, PH by Javier Joe ismael and

Kristina ManilaTimes.net

marali

SENATE President Juan Miguel Zubiri on Tuesday, August 2 said that 110 local and national bills submitted to former president Rodrigo Duterte for signature during the 18th Congress have lapsed into law. “Much attention was given to five vetoed bills when there are at least 110 bills that will now have the full effect and force of the law,” Zubiri said during plenary session. Among the bills that lapsed into law were Republic Act 11683 (requisites for the conversion of a municipality into a component city); RA 11697 or “Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations Act”; RA 11698 or “Vintage Vehicle Regulation Ac”t; RA 11700 (designating Catanduanes as abaca capital of the Philippines); RA 11707 or “Egg Basket Act”; RA 11840 or “Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation Charter”; RA 11861 or “Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act”; RA 11897 or “National Baptist Day Act”; RA 11898 or “Extended Producer Responsibility Act”; RA 11899 or “Second Congressional Commission on Education Act”; and RA 11901 or “Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development Financing Enhancement Act.” Zubiri earlier called on President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to convene the LegislativeExecutive Development Advisory Council (Ledac) to discuss the executive branch’s legislation concerns. The members of the Ledac are the vice president; Senate president and three senators; the House of Representatives speaker and three congressmen; seven Cabinet members whom the President will choose; and representatives of local governments, the youth and the private sector. The President is the chairman of the council. The Ledac provides the deliberation process wherein lawmakers discuss what bills the executive branch wants the Congress to pass. Senate Majority Leader Emmanuel Joel Villanueva said awaiting review were 19 bills that President Marcos mentioned in his State of the Nation Address. “As Senate majority leader, [I] will pay close attention [to] and prioritize these proposed laws. It is clear that these proposals are rooted in the experience and lessons from the crises of the pandemic, in the economy, energy and education. These give the proposals a sense of urgency,” Villanueva said. Also on Tuesday, Senate Committee on Public

Order and Dangerous Drugs Chairman Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa told his fellow senators that his bill to strengthen the private security industry was among the more than 100 measures that lapsed into law. “Mr. President, you just said a while ago that basahin na lang ng ating majority leader (Villanueva) ‘yung mga nag-lapse into law (the majority leader should just read the list of bills that lapsed into law), but I cannot help to inform you that another happy bill that lapsed into law was RA 11917 or the ‘Private Security Services Industry Act,’” dela Rosa said. “Pinaghirapan namin ito ni (former) Senator Franklin Drilon (Former senator Franklin Drilon and I fought hard for this),” he added. RA 11917 mandated the stricter regulation of security agencies. Dela Rosa said that the new law ensures that private security agencies shall be 100 percentowned and controlled by Filipinos, provided that they shall not employ more than 2,000 private security professionals. Meanwhile, Malacañang on Wednesday, August 3 denied that Marcos was on a “veto spree,” saying that out of the 41 bills that recently lapsed into law, only five were vetoed by the President. “Gusto ko lang linawin, hindi po nagkaroon ng veto spree ang ating Pangulo (I just want to clarify, the President did not go on a veto spree). Forty-one bills lapsed into law, and only five were vetoed. So, it’s not a spree,” said Press Secretary Rose Beatrix “Trixie” Cruz-Angeles in a news conference. The Palace was reacting to a statement by Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero, saying that Marcos Jr. was on a “bill vetoing spree” after the Chief Executive thumbed down tax exemption of the honoraria for teachers rendering service during elections. The five measures vetoed by the President were the creation of the Bulacan Airport City Special Economic Zone; Office of the Government Corporate Counsel Charter; Davao Light and Power Company Inc. Franchise; Philippine Transportation Safety Board Act; and Exempting From Income Taxation the Honoraria, Allowances, and Other Financial Benefits of Persons Rendering Service During Elections. “’Yung pag-veto ng Presidente (The President vetoing some bills) is a matter of good housekeeping... It is not a spree. Tinotono lang naman ng ating Pangulo du’n sa mga sistema ‘yung mga batas natin (Our President just wants our laws to be attuned to the sýstem),” Cruz-Angeles said. n

calls on parties to practice ‘restraint’ MANILA — Following U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan, the Philippines expressed concerns over rising tensions on Thursday, August 4 and said it “adheres to the OneChina policy.” Like many countries in the world, the Philippines maintains a “One China” policy and officially only has diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. The Manila Economic and Cultural Office represents Taiwan in the Philippines. “The Philippines urges restraint by all parties concerned. Diplomacy and dialogue must prevail,” the Department of Foreign Affairs said. The statement comes just as reports of Chinese forces firing “multiple” ballistic missiles into waters around Taiwan during its military drills have surfaced. Pelosi’s visit started tensions between Washington and Beijing, with China warning the U.S. of “consequences” should Pelosi step foot on Taipei. She landed in Taipei late Tuesday

evening, August 2, on a U.S. Air Force passenger jet. China said that Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan would “send a wrong signal” to the so-called separatist forces. It added that it would “seriously violate the One-China principle.” The self-governing island is under the constant threat of being invaded by China. Meanwhile, in a joint statement dated August 3, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations also expressed concern over the volatility that was sparked by tensions over the recent “cross strait development” and reiterated member states’ support for their respective one-China policy. ASEAN leaders warned that it “could destabilize the region and eventually could lead to miscalculation, serious confrontation, open conflicts and unpredictable consequences among major powers.” “We should act together and ASEAN stands ready to play a constructive role in facilitating peaceful dialogue

Philippines to assert arbitral ruling... PAGE 2 China Sea (DOC) and agreed to continue to fully and effectively implement the DOC and actively advance consultations on a code of conduct (COC) to jointly safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea and the region.

According to Zhao, the South China Sea is not a place to be turned into a wrestling ground by big powers outside the region. In March, U.S. Indo-Pacific commander Adm. John Aquilino said that the construction of missile arsenals, aircraft hangars, radar systems and other military

facilities at Zamora (Subi) Reef, as well as Panganiban (Mischief) and Kagitingan (Fiery Cross) Reefs “appeared to have been completed.” The function of China’s artificial islands is “to expand the offensive capability of China,” he said. n

YOUNG ENROLLEE. A woman fills up the enrollment form for her son going to Kindergarten at the Delfin Geraldez Elementary School on Salvia Street, Novaliches-Fairview in Quezon City on Thursday, August 4. The school has been accepting enrollees until the opening of classes on August 22. PNA photo by Oliver Marquez

between all parties including through utilizing ASEAN-led mechanisms to deescalate tension, to safeguard peace, security and development in our region,” the joint statement read. (Philstar.com) n

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OpiniOn

Builder of peace, Team Philippines

Features Philstar.com photo

He wanted all Filipinos to rally behind “Team Philippines” – and Fidel Valdez Ramos meant it, without snide remarks behind his opponents’ backs or smear campaigns directed at his critics. Winning the presidency by a plurality in a seven-cornered fight in 1992, “FVR” reached out to enemies of the state, forging peace with the secessionist Moro National Liberation Front, granting amnesty to right-wing rebels and negotiating peace with the communists. A hero of the 1986 people power revolt that toppled the dictatorial regime of his cousin, Ramos also reached out to the constituencies of Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos. Upon assuming the presidency, his first achievement was to put an end to the crippling blackouts. Although his solutions led to costly electricity in the long-term, the restoration of reliable power especially in Metro Manila and the production centers of Central Luzon got the economy back on its feet. Ramos then set out to liberalize the economy, allowing the country to avoid the worst of the Asian financial crisis that erupted in July 1997. Within the formidable constraints set by Philippine politics and culture, he made sincere efforts to introduce structural reforms and promote good governance. FVR said six years is too long for a bad president, and too short for a good one. His supporters

tried to push for a constitutional amendment that would have allowed him to seek a second term, but the people’s initiative was shot down. Upon retirement, Ramos gladly played the role of elder statesman. In 2016, following the leadership change, Rodrigo Duterte publicly thanked Ramos for persuading the former mayor of Davao City to run for president under a platform of shifting to federalism. Between rounds of golf and socializing, FVR wrote books. In one, he declared: “The only thing that countries cannot outsource is good government – which must be homegrown – along with leadership, national solidarity, competence, teamwork, and other cherished values.” In an interview in his twilight years, he said, “Who wants to slow down? The most glorious way of dying, as far as soldiers are concerned, is to die from an enemy’s bullet in combat. But equally glorious and noble is just to drop dead of old age after providing for a family, paying your taxes, and helping your community and your neighbor.” That is exactly what Fidel V. Ramos did. While mourning his demise, the nation celebrates the life of an exemplary public servant. (Philstar.com)

Commentary

Rest easy now, FVR

Editorial

Melandrew T. Velasco “WE Filipinos have always found it easier to die for our country than live for it. In times of peace and civil order, we seem to fritter away in bickering. We split so easily into fractions, each intent on its petty agenda. We play at intrigue: each pursuing his or her self interest, although doing so may be self defeating.” Thus wrote former President Fidel Valdez Ramos as part of his foreword in the landmark book “Twilight Glory: A Tribute to Filipino Heroes and Veterans” published in August 2020 by Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc (MTVI) and the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation (RPDEV). Prophetic it may seem were the former Chief Executive’s words of wisdom, Twilight Glory would go down as my last book collaboration with FVR who joined our Creator last Sunday, July 31, at the ripe age of 94. For over 20 years since my first book on the Ramos family published in November 2000 in time for the birth centennial of FVR’s father, Ambassador Narciso R. Ramos, I have authored and copublished 15 landmark books on FVR’s family members and his

foundation. Not all are privileged to work with a former Philippine president. I’ve had the blessing of serving alongside FVR whose love for our country and heart for good governance always ring a bell until he breathe his last. FVR or Steady Eddie, as he was fondly called by his peers and constituents, was better known not just for his thumbs-up sign, “Kaya Natin Ito” slogan, his ears or his tobacco but also for his push-ups and crunches and his programs of his administration especially with Philippines 2000. Before COVID-19 came into being in early 2020, FVR, even at a ripe age of 92 still reported to his RPDEV office in Makati almost daily but stopped playing golf in 2021 upon doctor’s advice. Even in his nonagenarian years, he never failed to carry on what he had started. Always a good soldier, FVR always liked to say that he would rather die serving his country with his boots on than sit idly to enjoy his retirement. Thus, I remember him continuing to inspire and to stimulate, stir and enthuse, define and redefine, challenge and defy the odds. In hindsight, even 24 years after he finished his term as President, FVR or Eddie, the private citizen, refused to be “tired even while retired.” He continued to be “a reformer despite being a former President,” and delighted by an

“ex” but never considered him to be an excess and not yet expired. Other former chiefs of state write their memoirs and then fade into the sunset. FVR was an exception. In fact, he had written more than 30 books while in retirement and through keynote speeches, roundtable discussions, university convocations, etc., kept reminding his successors and other leaders of the urgent things what’s needed to be done for our country and people to achieve a better future. My relationship with FVR can be described as a wonderful journey that transcended beyond the books we have done together. As stated earlier, since 2000, FVR had commissioned me to write on the biographies of his loved ones: “Enduring Legacy,” on his father Foreign Affairs Secretary Narciso Ramos; “ In A Class of Her Own,” on his mother Angela Valdez Ramos; “Mommy: The Pillar of Social Work” on his mother-in-law Josefa Jara Martinez; “Simply Ming,” on First Lady Amelita “Ming” M. Ramos; “Uncle Sim” on Simeon Marcos Valdez; and, “Colors of Light” on his artist, poetess and ambassador’s spouse auntie Lucia Mangapit Valdez. Among the best book projects we worked and produced together are: Silver Linings, a story on the 25 Years of the 1986 Revolution, RPDEV @ 15: Our Continuing Voyage for Enduring Peace and

Sustainable Development and the first volume, Teamwork for Enduring Peace and Sustainable Development chronicling ten years of the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation (RPDEV), a non-profit, nonpolitical, non-partisan nongovernment organization where he served as chair. Our last book together as copublishers was co-authored with PVAO Administrator Gen. Nesty Carolina and Gen. Pol Bataoil, former Congressional Chairman for Veterans Affairs and now Lingayen mayor. Twilight Glory was supposed to be presented on his 92nd birthday celebration on March 22nd 2020 at Fairmont Hotel but had to be cancelled due to COVID-19 and lockdown in Metro Manila. Looking back, it is not only a singular honor and privilege writing and publishing books. All these years, I always consider it is a gift and a blessing from the Almighty and from FVR himself who always served as a constant guide, inspiration, editor and prime mover of said book projects. The past 21 years and the several book teams formed have been a great journey of rediscovering FVR and RPDEV. With his passing to the great beyond, we have a bunch of team that now form part of a select group called Fidelistas, ardent students and admirers of Fidel V. Ramos.

Working with him has allowed the various book teams, notably the millennials, to experience some of FVR’s core values and best practices such as CSW (Completed Staff Work), CSD (Caring, Sahring and Daring), and UST (Unity, Solidarity and Teamwork) – all advocated by FVR. There’s no denying that FVR also became my loving mentor and my second father having earlier lost my own when he succumbed to cancer in 1994. Just like a disciplinarian father, there were times when FVR scolded me when especially when coming in late for our appointed meetings; reprimanded me when I was not up to his high and excellent standards; and, he patted my back in times of appreciation and satisfaction on good works done. During regular visits to his office, he personally saw to it that my team was served with his “coffee royale” laced with virgin coconut oil because according to him, it works well for the health and vitality. We all have to agree. After coffee, he treated us either with a glass of red wine or his special “FVR cocktail drink” invariably laced with soda, rum, cognac, whiskey or brandy while watching some documentaries or FVR taped interviews showcasing his milestone presidency and continuing work as senior statesman. As for his many sorties overseas wherein I was privileged to join, I witnessed how he continued to be

admired, respected and adulated as former President and head of state. But there’s one unforgettable experience I had with him that showed the stuff he was really made of. I remember one incident in June 2013 when we staged the Pilipinas Roadshow with my co-book authors former DILG Secretary Rafael M. Alunan III and Gen. Reynaldo V. Velasco featuring our book “Silver Linings: 25 Years of the 1986 People Power Revolution,” and “Tagaligtas: A Documentary on the Spercial Action Force” (long before the Mamasapano massacre happened) in eight key cities in the United States to promote Filipino values and instill patriotism to the Fil-Ams in time for the Independence Day celebration. Inspite of the debilitating pain on his back and leg when he injured himself in San Diego, California while doing his usual crunch with some Fil-Ams, FVR, who was very well beyond his years, withstood the pain and committed to continue the 8-city tour to Atlanta, Georgia, Washington D.C., Virginia, New Jersey and New York without any complaints or grievance. Beyond the pain, the show must go on. Such a kindred and brave soul in FVR and he taught the Pilipinas Roadshow Team a lesson or two on pain management, mind over matter, professionalism and honoring one’s commitment.

u PAGE 7

Why is Manila not in Pelosi itinerary?

Postscript

Federico Pascual Jr. WE can understand why the Congressional delegation led by U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi should skip Taiwan in its meetings with their staunchest security partners in the Indo-Pacific region, but why is the Philippines, a longtime treaty ally, left out? Pelosi’s delegation, in Singapore on Tuesday, August 2 will proceed to Malaysia, South Korea and Japan while weighing the wisdom of also calling on President Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan as China warns of the dire consequences of such a visit to what it claims as its province. If the Pelosi consultation with allies on “shared interests and values” is any indication, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will have to work harder to pull up Manila from the cellar that his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte had brought down relations with Washington. Since Duterte’s watch, has the Philippines shrunk into a small dot

on the U.S. geopolitical screen of the Indo-Pacific region? Would that speck now loom bigger with the ascendancy of the lead male member of the controversial Marcos dynasty? President Marcos enjoys the immunity customarily accorded to traveling sovereigns, but members of his family not in his entourage still have to sort out their individual status – and also that of their Stateside assets – should they plan to enter the U.S. China has been careful to keep strong the bilateral ties cemented during the term of Duterte, who announced in 2017 his country’s “separation” from Uncle Sam while he was standing in Beijing as guest of President Xi Jinping. In Washington, U.S. President Joe Biden raised last week concerns about Pelosi’s trip, telling reporters that the military thinks her trip is “not a good idea right now.” No China policy shift is expected to result immediately from the consultations by her group. But the Pelosi swing through the region – with a stop in Taipei left hanging – would be productive

by helping draw out a deeper and larger view of the official attitude of the inscrutable Chinese leaders on the Taiwan issue and related matters. CIA director William Burns has said he believed a Chinese attempt to forcibly seize the island, with its 23 million population – 154,000 of them Filipino workers! – was only a matter of time. But time is an infinite continuum! Although China sometimes flies warplanes menacingly close to Taiwan, many security analysts say that an invasion at this time is not probable, nor profitable, for China. If one does occur, however, the U.S. is committed at least on paper to rush to its defense. Such a military confrontation exploding soon may look farfetched. But if it does happen, what will Manila do? What will Marcos do? Watch from across the Babuyan channel the war raging some 711 air km away from his Ilocandia redoubt? ‘Resetting barangay polls unconstitutional’ There is again another move in the Congress to postpone the barangay elections that have

already been set this December. Instead of resetting these village polls to suit the changing politics of some potent groups, why don’t we just make elected barangay officials hold office for life? After saying that, more in exasperation, we yield to an expert election lawyer, Romy Macalintal, who says that postponing barangay elections is unconstitutional. He elaborates: “The Constitution gives Congress the power to ‘fix the term of office of barangay officials’ but not the power to ‘postpone’ their election. Only the Commission on Elections has exclusive authority to postpone an election after it has determined that any of the causes under Section 5 of the Omnibus Election Code warrant such postponement. “However, Congress has the power to postpone the Sangguniang Kabataan polls since SK is not created by the Constitution and SK officials are not barangay nor local elective officials. “While Congress has postponed several scheduled barangay polls in the past, said act was never

challenged before the Supreme Court. Now that several lawmakers plan to postpone the Dec. 5, 2022, barangay polls to Dec. 5, 2025, which would be its fourth postponement, it is high time that this constitutional transgression committed by Congress be stopped. “The moment Congress has fixed the term of office of the barangay officials, say for three years, the said term cannot be extended by law as it will violate the electorate’s right to choose their own leaders. When the voters cast their ballots, the mandate given these barangay officials is only for three years. “Thus, the Supreme Court ruled that said officials can only ‘legally and morally justify their reign by obtaining the consent of the electorate.’ “It is again proposed that the incumbent barangay officials be allowed to continue serving in a ‘holdover capacity.’ But this, as SC ruled, is ‘a subtle way to lengthen governance without the mandate from the governed. If they want to continue serving, they must get a new mandate in the elections as

scheduled by law.’ “It is unconstitutional because ‘holdover positions’ are actually ‘legislative appointments’ making holdover positions violative of the constitution’s rule that barangay officials should be elected and not appointed.” On ‘saving funds’ by postponing the election, we agree with former senator (now representative) Ralph Recto’s opposition when the Senate voted to postpone the 2016 barangay polls. He said: “Makakatipid daw? Pero paano? The math here is that by putting off the elections for a year, we are only putting aside funds budgeted for the elections for a year. We can only save money if we are permanently canceling the polls. But we are only postponing it.” (Philstar.com) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

*** NB: Author is on Twitter as @FDPascual. Email: fdp333@yahoo.com. All Postscripts are also archived at ManilaMail.com

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House bill seeks ban on single-use plastics A BILL that seeks to ban single-use plastics nationwide has been filed at the House of Representatives. House Bill 1038 was filed by Bagong Henerasyon Rep. Bernadette Herrera on July 4, 2022. “By implementing a national policy against the use of single-use plastics, the state shall ensure the protection of its environment, prioritize the safety of its citizens, and promote sustainable development across all sectors,” Herrera said in the bill’s explanatory note.

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“There is a need for an all-encompassing nationwide policy against the industries’ use of various single-use plastic products,” she added. If the measure is passed into law, a nationwide ban of single-use plastics shall be implemented within a year upon its effectivity. The bill requires a transition program that includes replacement of single-use plastics with “eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives.” A similar bill was filed by Pangasinan 5th District Rep. Ramon Guico Jr. (By Ma. Reina Leanne Tolentino/Manilatimes.net) n

Westmincom honors US military liaison unit ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Western Mindanao Command this week honored a U.S. military unit in the Philippines. Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., Westmincom chief, led the donning of the rank on newly-promoted U.S. Marine commander working with Filipino troops in the southern Philippines. Rosario put the rank on U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Paul Bailey, commander of the U.S. Special

Operations Task Force 511.2 (SOTF 511.2), in a private military ceremony at Camp Don Basilio Navarro in Zamboanga City. Westmincom released information about the ceremony Wednesday night, August 3. The U.S. has made its presence felt in Zamboanga City recently, with U.S. Secretary to the Navy Carlos Del Toro visiting the Westmincom headquarters, followed by a U.S. House Armed

Services Committee (HASC) soon after. During the program on Tuesday, August 2, Rosario also presented awards to Lt. Col. Bailey and all the members of SOTF 511.2 for their deployment as Westmincom foreign liaison in the past eight months. Task force members were given Military Civic Action medals as they ended their tour of duty in the Philippines. (Philstar.com) n

Rest easy now, FVR...

PAGE 6 Through the years that I’ve known him, the many young and not so old writers that have been involved with the book projects have also seen the other human side of FVR – comical, witty and a tad bit serious when needed. I still recall the usual drill when he shook the hands of one lady writer and FVR feigned sickness to the lady writer’s great concern. Obviously, he was just joking. Such funny incidents and lighter moments would make most of them wonder how at his age, he still continued to work and contribute to nation building with his wealth of ideas, wisdom and experience. Unfortunately, for the many national leaders who came after him both in the executive and legislative, they didn’t seem to take the golden opportunity of tapping his vast reservoir of wisdom and experience, particularly in the areas of good governance and global diplomacy. With his passing, I believe that FVR is one of the greatest Philippine Presidents this country ever had, being a historian and eyewitness to Philippine history over the last 50 years. Having served as 12th President of the Philippines from 1992 to 1998, FVR is best remembered for promoting the principles of people empowerment, a culture of excellence, and global competitiveness, focusing on programs to alleviate poverty and improve the lives of ordinary Filipinos. This is evident in the 229 structural/reform laws enacted by the 9th and 10th Congress during his term, achieved principally by building unity, solidarity and teamwork among government and civil society leaders. As a soldier who served for 42 years, including stints in Korea, Vietnam and in the counterinsurgency campaign, FVR retired as a 4-star

General and Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces. He served as Defense Secretary from 1988 to 1991. As President and thereafter, he is better known as a peace builder with the forging of the peace agreements with the rebel-soldiers in 1995 and with the Moro National Liberation Front in 1996. The former President who has been in public service since beginning his career as a cadet in the U.S. Military Academy in 1946, continues to practice his distinct brand of public service through the nongovernment RPDEV Foundation which he and key members of his former Presidential family organized only months after they left office. His legacy of public service before, during and after his six year presidency are unmatched: West Point honor graduate, Korea and Vitenam War veteran, AFP Vice Chief of Staff, PC-INP Chief, EDSA 1 hero, AFP Chief, Defense Secretary, Philippine President, RPDEV and Boao Forum Chairman, EDSA 2 hero and Senior Statesman. Not that he is gone, I can only recall the best times I have with him. Incidentally, Pilipinas Kong Mahal is his all time favourite patriotic song. Truly, Fidel V. Ramos has left an endearing legacy to our nation and with the books that we have done over the last 20 years, I now comfort myself for being the torchbearer in bringing his indelible imprints on patriotism that celebrate a milestone of life, love, learning for his people and service to our beloved Philippines. Rest easy now FVR. Thank you Mr. President for your service to our country and our people. To honor your legacy, we will always carry on your favorite battle cry: KAYA NATIN ITO!!! ***

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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REMOVE AND REPLACE WINDOW COVERINGS AT SEVEN (7) SITES

A mandatory site visit is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2022, in front of

A mandatory site visit is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2022, outside

the main office Of Scripps Ranch High School. 10410 Falcon Way, San Diego, CA 92131. ALL

the main office of Johnson Elementary School, 1355 Kelton Road, San Diego, CA 92114. ALL

CONTRACTORS MUST PREREGISTER WITH THE DISTRICT PRIOR TO ATTENDING THE SITE

CONTRACTORS MUST PREREGISTER WITH THE DISTRICT PRIOR TO ATTENDING THE SITE

WALK AT https://sandiegounified.org/sitewalks Site walks will follow the latest District COVID-19

WALK AT https://sandiegounified.org/sitewalks. Site walks will follow the latest District COVID-19

policies which can be found at https://www.sandiegounified.org/covid-19_status. PLEASE SEE BID

policies which can be found at https://www.sandiegounified.org/covid-19_status. PLEASE SEE BID

FOR DETAILS (No. CC23-0298-52).

FOR DETAILS (No. CP23-0237-08).

Please refer to Planwell (www.crispimg.com, click on PlanWell, Public Planroom, search

Please refer to Planwell (www.crispimg.com, click on PlanWell, Public Planroom, search

SDUSD and project bid number CC23-0298-52) for project details. All bids must be received

SDUSD and project bid number CP23-0237-08 for project details. All bids must be received

electronically at or before 1:00 p.m. on AUGUST 11, 2022. Firms interested in submitting a bid

electronically at or before 1:00 p.m. on SEPTEMBER 1, 2022. Firms interested in submitting a

package must go to https://www.planetbids.com/portal/portal.cfm?CompanyID=43764 then search

bid package must go to https://www.planetbids.com/portal/portal.cfm?CompanyID=43764 then

under “Bid Opportunities” for “Invitation number” CC23-0298-52 Gym Reroof at Scripps Ranch High

search under “Bid Opportunities” for “Invitation number” CP23-0237-08 Remove and Replace Window

School. For new vendors, please register under “New Vendor Registration”. The project estimate is

Covering at Seven (7) Sites. For new vendors, please register under “New Vendor Registration”. The

between $1.3 million and $1.4 million. This is a PSA project and requires prequalification. The District

project estimate is between $130,000 and $140,000. This is not a PSA project and does not require

requires that Bidders possess any of the following classification(s) of California State Contractors

prequalification. The District requires that Bidders possess any of the following classification(s) of

License(s), valid and in good standing, at the time of bid opening and contract award: B or other

California State Contractors License(s), valid and in good standing, at the time of bid opening and

appropriate license, subject to District approval. SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, Linda

contract award: C-61/D-52 or other appropriate license, subject to District approval. SAN DIEGO

Hippe, Director (TOC), Purchasing and Contracts, Strategic Sourcing and Contracts Department

UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, Linda Hippe, Strategic Sourcing and Contracts Director (TOC),

CC23-0298-52.

Strategic Sourcing and Contracts Department CP23-0237-08.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9017205

MAC Taekwondo located at 5143 Waring Rd., San Diego, CA 92120. Registrant: Martial Arts Center Inc., 4853 Carriage Run Dr., San Diego, CA 92130. This business is conducted by Corporation. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 07/29/2022. Signature: Jaesung Yoon. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/29/2022. AJ 1004 08/05, 08/12, 08/19, and 08/26/2022. AJSD#1004

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9017244

CNG Development located at 849 North Vulcan Ave., Encinitas, CA 92024. Registrant: Scott D Sherman, 5083 Adobe Pl, Topock, AZ 86436. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 07/29/2022. Signature: Scott D Sherman. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/29/2022. AJ 1005 08/05, 08/12, 08/19, and 08/26/2022. AJSD#1005

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9016964

Dentist Julita G Trimor DMD Inc. located at 2240 E. Plaza Blvd., Ste O, National CIty, CA 91950. THE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME REFERRED TO ABOVE WAS FILED IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY ON: 09/14/2017, and assigned File no. 2017-9023094 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IS BEING ABANDONED BY: Dentist Julita G Trimor DMD Inc., 2240 E. Plaza Blvd., Ste O, National CIty, CA 91950. This Business is Conducted by: A Corporation Signature: Julita T Tinaminsan. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/27/2022. AJ 1006 08/05, 08/12, 08/19, and 08/26/2022. AJSD#1006

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9015559

Macaro located at 4235 Menlo Ave #1, San Diego, CA 92115. Registrant: Alisha Danielle Terry, 4235 Menlo Ave #1, San Diego, CA 92115. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Alisha Danielle Terry. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/11/2022. AJ 1007 08/05, 08/12, 08/19, and 08/26/2022.

AJSD#1007

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AUGUST 5-11, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588

LEGAL SERVICES SUMMONS CASE NO.

37-2022-00013055-CU-Cl-Ctl NOTICE TO DEFENDANT (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): 1. PHUONG KIM TRUONG dba LIBERTY NAILS; TU NGOC GIANG dba LIBERTY NAILS; DOES 1-20, INCLUSIVE YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF (LO ESTA DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): 1. AC PROPERTY MGMT., L.L.C NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online SelfHelp Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www.lawhelp california. org) the California Courts Online SelfHelp Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. AVISO: Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 dias, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su version. Lea la informacion a continuacion. Tiene 30 DIAS DE CALENDARIO despues de que le entreguen esta citacion y papales legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una

LEGAL SERVICES

carta o una llamada telefonica no lo protegen. Su repuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su repuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y mas informacion en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www. sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede mas cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentacion, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exencion de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podra quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin mas advertencia. Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remision a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www. sucorte.ca.gov ) o poniendose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperacion de $10,000 o mas de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesion de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso. The name, address and telephone number of the court is (El nombre y direccion de la Corte es:) Superior Court of California, County of San Diego, 330 W Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101 The name, address and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney or plaintiff without an attorney, is (El nombre, la direccion y el numero de telefono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es): Jonathan B. Teperson, ESQ/ SBN 156470 Law Offices Of Jonathan B. Teperson P.O. Box 890123 Temecula, CA 92591 Phone: 949-570-0990 Date: 04/08/2022 Carolina Miranda, Deputy Clerk AJ 1008 08/05, 08/12, 08/19, and 08/26/2022 AJSD#1008

CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00026062-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioners Erika Pantoja and Jhovany Pantoja on behalf of a minor filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Christian Manuel Pantoja to Franco Manuel Pantoja. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 08/17/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. C-61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: JUL. 05, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 987 07/15, 07/22, 07/29, and 08/05/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.

AJSD#987

LEGAL SERVICES

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF EILEEN MARIA MOSS. CASE NO: 37-2022-00014128-PR-LA-CTL

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: EILEEN MARIA MOSS A Petition for Probate has been filed by MELISSA CARDENO in the Superior Court of California, County of SAN DIEGO. The Petition for Probate requests that MELISSA CARDENO be appointed as personal representative to administer with will annexed the estate of the decedent. The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date: 08/10/22 Time: 2:30 P.M. Dept.: 502 Address of court: 1100 Union Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Branch Name: Central, Probate If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. ATTORNEY: EARTh ShAh FIRM NAME: ShAh ATTORNEY GROUP ADDRESS: 16521 REDwOOD DRIvE, CERRITOS CA 90703 TELEPhONE: 562 659 4526 ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER: MELISSA CARDENO 07/15, 07/22, AND 07/29/2022 AJ 990 AJSD 990

CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00027166-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioners Samantha Suzanne Pinon filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Samantha Suzanne Pinon to Samantha Suzanne Leslie. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 08/24/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: JUL. 12, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 992 07/22, 07/29, 08/05, and 08/12/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120). If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions. A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date. Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the court.

AJSD#992

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9015940

Creative Studios Inc. located at 127 Bassett Ct., Spring Valley, CA 91977. Registrant: Creative Studios Inc., 5127 Bassett Ct., Spring Valley, CA 91977. This business is conducted by Corporation. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 07/14/2022. Signature: Loraine G. Reduque. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/14/2022. AJ 1001 07/29, 08/05, 08/12, and 08/19/2022. AJSD#1001

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9017082

Seiko Properties LLC located at 4695 E. Talmadge Dr., San Diego, CA 92116. Registrant: Seiko Properties LLC, 4695 E. Talmadge Dr., San Diego, CA 92116. This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/01/1986. Signature: Pamela Seiko Robinson. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/28/2022. AJ 1002 08/05, 08/12, 08/19, and 08/26/2022. AJSD#1002

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9017083

Think Real Estate Benefits LLC located at 4695 E. Talmadge Dr., San Diego, CA 92116. Registrant: Think Real Estate Benefits LLC, 4695 E. Talmadge Dr., San Diego, CA 92116. This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 0/01/2012. Signature: Pamela S. Robinson. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/28/2022. AJ 1003 08/05, 08/12, 08/19, and 08/26/2022.

AJSD#1003

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9015248

Advanced Car Stereo located at 252 Calle Florecita, Escondido, CA 92029. Registrant: REM Cyber Compliance Solutions Inc, 252 Calle Florecita, Escondido, CA 92029. This business is conducted by Corporation. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 06/20/2022. Signature: Ramin Asef. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/06/2022. AJ 985 07/15, 07/22, and 07/29, and 08/05/2022. AJSD#985

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9014789

Brave Heart Child & Family Counseling located at 5230 Carroll Canyon Road, Suite 314, San Diego, CA 92121. Registrant: Belinda Juang Lee, 5230 Carroll Canyon Road, Suite 314, San Diego, CA 92121. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.. Signature: Belinda Juang Lee. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 06/29/2022. AJ 995 07/22, 07/29, 08/05, and 08/12/2022.

AJSD#995

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9015544

a. Jungle Hippie located at 5108 Brighton Ave., Ocean Beach, CA 92107. b. Jungle Hippie Boutique located at 5108 Brighton Ave., Ocean Beach, CA 92107. c. The Jungle Hippie located at 5108 Brighton Ave., Ocean Beach, CA 92107. d. The Jungle Hippie Boutique located at 5108 Brighton Ave., Ocean Beach, CA 92107. Registrant: Jaclyn Andrea Meltzer, 5108 Brighton Ave., Ocean Beach, CA 92107. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 02/15/2015. Signature: Jaclyn Andrea Meltzer. Statement filed with Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/11/2022. AJ 988 07/15, 07/22, 07/29, and 08/05/2022. AJSD#988

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9014716

MB Fundraising & Communication located at 1606 Via Costina, San Ysidro, CA 92173. Registrant: Mariela Brambila, 1606 Via Costina, San Ysidro, CA 92173. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Mariela Brambila. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 06/28/2022. AJ 996 07/22, 07/29, 08/05, and 08/12/2022. AJSD#996

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9015585

American Motorhead located at 31926 Via Ararat Dr., Bonsall, CA 92003. Registrant: Rick Thomas Ortiz, 31926 Via Ararat Dr., Bonsall, CA 92003. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 02/22/2018. Signature: Rick Ortiz. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/11/2022. AJ 989 07/15, 07/22, 07/29, and 08/05/2022.

AJSD#989

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9015142

ITALO JEANS located at 1435 Santee St., Los Angeles, CA 90015. Registrant: High Tech Zone Inc, 1435 Santee St., Los Angeles, CA 90015. This business is conducted by Corporation. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 04/20/2022. Signature: Mohamad Chahine. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/05/2022. AJ 997 07/22, 07/29, 08/05, and 08/12/2022. AJSD#997

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9014691

JE Permits located at 404 W. Lincoln Ave., #1, Escondido, CA 92026. Registrant: James Elizaga, 404 W. Lincoln Ave., #1, Escondido, CA 92026. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 06/28/2022. Signature: James Elizaga. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 06/28/2022. AJ 991 07/15, 07/22, 07/29, and 08/05/2022. AJSD#991

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9016469

a. RAYTECH Plumbing And Drains located at 3829 Birch St., San Diego, CA 92113 b. R.T.P. located at 3829 Birch St., San Diego, CA 92113. Registrant: Dionisio Raymond, 3829 Birch St., San Diego, CA 92113. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 05/18/2022. Signature: Dionisio Raymond. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/21/2022. AJ 998 07/29, 08/05, 08/12, and 08/19/2022. AJSD#998

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9016158

Moment Engineering located at 4707 Soria Drive, San Diego, CA 92115. Registrant: Geo Environ Engineering Consultants, Inc, 4071 E. La Palma Ave., Suite B, Anaheim, CA 92806. This business is conducted by Corporation. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Fahad Masud. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/18/2022. AJ 993 07/22, 07/29, 08/05, and 08/12/2022. AJSD#993

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9015948 Unique Spa located at 6610 El Cajon, San Diego, CA 92115. Registrant: Dirk Langer, 1889 Eucalyptus Hill Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93108. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Dirk Langer Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/14/2022. AJ 994 07/22, 07/29, 08/05, and 08/12/2022.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-915032 Laman Janitorial Service, LP located at 380 S. 46th Apt 3, San Diego, CA 92113. Registrant: Rosa Coleman, 380 S. 46th Apt 3, San Diego, CA 92113. This business is conducted by Limited Partnership. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/01/2017. Signature: Rosa Coleman. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/01/2022. AJ 999 07/29, 08/05, 08/12, and 08/19/2022.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9016133 Salvador’s Waterproof located at 560 F St., Chula Vista, CA 91910. Registrant: Salvador Rodriguez, 560 F St., Chula Vista, CA 91910. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 08/06/21. Signature: Salvador Rodriguez. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/18/2022. AJ 1000 07/29, 08/05, 08/12, and 08/19/2022.

AJSD 999

AJSD#994

AJSD 1000

SAN DIEGO

(818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588 • http://www.asianjournal.com

SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 5-11, 2022

JOURNAL

Jo Koy presented with Daly City ‘key to the city’ by Joseph

C

L. peraLta / AJPress

OMEDIAN Jo Koy was presented with a Key to the City of Daly City in the city council chambers in simple ceremonies on Friday morning, July 22.

Accompanied by an entourage that included his sister Gemma, son Joseph Herbert Jr., Easter Sunday scripwriter Ken Cheng and friends and supporters, Jo Koy, who is Joseph Glenn Herbert Sr. in real life, received the commemorative plaque from Daly City councilmembers Juslyn Manalo and Pamela DiGiovanni. Daly City Mayor Rod Daus-Magbual, Vice Mayor Raymond Buenaventura and Councilmember Glenn Sylvester could not make the ceremony due to previous commitments. Koy also received a special citation from the County of San Mateo, represented by San Mateo County Supervisor David Canepa, declaring July 22 as Jo Koy Day in the county. “It is with great honor to present this key to the city on behalf of the Mayor, the city council to you, Jo Koy. And with the significance of the key, it is from your sheer talent to make people laugh and as Joey Guila said, heal people… laughter is healing… and the key represents opening doors, literally bringing others along with you in a bayanihan spirit and the value of kapwa,” Councilmember Manalo said, after which she read the words inscribed on the plaque. And in true Jo Koy fashion, the comedian had people laughing in stiches during his acceptance speech. “Thank you so much. Man, I’m overwhelmed right now. I am at a loss for words,” Koy said. “I am going to put this on my keychain (elicits laughter)… have this key with my other keys… Oops, this is the key to the city. Sorry, I’m trying to get into my house here.” “And of course this, I’m also going to make a wallet-size (gesturing to the County citation),” he continued, while chuckling, “so I can always show people that I have my own day here. So I will be frequently here July 22nd… ‘Jo’s here again’… everyone, go home, this is my day. And then close the gate to Daly City. ‘No one’s allowed in here! It’s my day, have a nice day, bye!’”

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AU G U ST 5, 2 0 22

Beyond the Stars: Star Magic sets 30th anniversary tour in US By Donnabelle GatDula-arevalo AJPress

LOS ANGELES – “It’s going to be a different kind of magic”. ABS-CBN’s talent agency Star Magic is expected to wow hundreds of its fans from all over the United States as it brings “Beyond the Stars”, one of its biggest global events in its 30 years of existence. During a media conference to launch the U.S. concert tour, Star Magic head Laurenti Dyogi said the phenomenal two-hour concert extravaganza, showcasing the best-staged entertainment that only the brightest stars of this generation can deliver, will be held in New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles next month. The shows which will be so far, the biggest in Star Magic’s Comedian Jo Koy (in orange cap, holding plaque) poses for a photo with County and city officials after he was given a Key to history, Dyogi said, would the City for Daly City on Friday, July 22. Daly City, which is called the “Gateway to the Peninsula,” features prominently in feature stellar performances Koy’s new movie “Easter Sunday.” AJPress photos by Joseph Peralta “like you’ve never seen before”. Dyogi said as the U.S. In referring to the movie “Easter concert will be part of the 30th Sunday” which features Daly City, Koy said, Anniversary celebration of Star “Like I said, it’s a movie about family. It’s Magic, it would not only be the family we know, not just in Daly City continuing the tradition of the but in this world… through laughter we can talent management agency of identify and relate to each other. And that bringing exceptional shows but was the biggest thing I wanted to get across would also be a way to express in this film. I wanted to tell the story about gratitude to all their supporters my family, but most importantly I just didn’t in the U.S. want to let people know that only Filipinos “We would like to continue can get this.” the Star Magic’s tradition. “When you leave, you’re gonna be like, Not only this is a part of ‘Oh, that mom is just like my mom’ and ‘that the celebration of the 30th kid is just like my kid’. And funny is just anniversary of Star Magic but this funny. At the end of the movie we can just all is also our way of reconnecting look at each other and go, ‘Ohhh, my mom with all our Kapamilyas in North did the same thing to me’… and that’s what America,” he said. it’s all about. We all want to be heard,” he Dyogi, who is also the ABSadded. CBN Head of TV Production, Koy went on to relate how the said the three-night shows would circumstances were different when his mom also be a welcome respite for all came to the United States – there was no Google, no Instagram. Koy said she had to Jo Koy had people in stitches during his acceptance speech our kababayans who have been find her own community, which he talked in the Key to the City presentation in the Daly city council secluded for a long time because of the pandemic. u PAGE 10 chambers on Friday, July 22.

“It’s been two years of tough times and we survived two years of global uncertainty and we have endured. Now, it is also time to celebrate and inspite the challenges of traveling and mounting a show abroad, this is really our humble way of giving back to our loyal Kapamilyas so that is why we are having not just one but three shows in total both the East and West coasts,” he said. As Star Magic wants to mount spectacular and some kind of “unique” from its previous shows in the States, Dyogi said they would be offering an unconventional line-up of talents to perform during the shows. “After two years of hiatus, we want something new, something big. So we are bringing in new stars and we have also reliable stars like Zanjoe (Marudo), Kim (Chiu), Carlo (Aquino) as part of the team and so they will be the ones heading these concerts. But we have the younger ones as you said the past two years were very active on social media, on broadcast, everywhere, it’s a mix of reliables and the old ones are solid parties and the new upcoming artists of Star Magic,” he added. For three decades now, Star Magic has served as home and training ground to the biggest and brightest names in Philippine entertainment. It has provided workshops in acting, dance, art, script appreciation, styling, and voice production as well as physical fitness training to develop well-rounded and worldclass performers with discipline and the proper work ethic. Its artists are also encouraged to use their influence for good through supporting advocacies like those of ABS-CBN Foundation.

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AUGUST 5-11, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

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County declares Pechanga Resort Casino nominated as Monkeypox local one of best resort-casinos in the country Pechanga nominated in 2 national Best of awards health emergency By Jose

A. AlvArez

County of San Diego Communications Office

LOCAL public health and elected officials on Tuesday, August 2 announced the declaration of a local health emergency to respond to monkeypox in the San Diego region. The action does not indicate that San Diegans are at higher risk of contracting the virus, but it is meant to reassure the public that local health authorities are proactively working to stay ahead of any challenges that may arise. The local health emergency must be ratified in 7 days, by the County Board of Supervisors, and then will need to be ratified again every 30 days, as needed. “Our County has taken monkeypox very seriously from the beginning and those efforts will continue,” said Chairperson Nathan Fletcher, County Board of Supervisors, who was joined by other elected officials to announce the declaration. “Today, the County is declaring a local health emergency for monkeypox to align our efforts with the approach taken by the State of California. This will also allow us to strengthen our county’s vaccination, prevention, education and treatment initiatives.” The declaration of the emergency empowers the County to: • more effectively respond to monkeypox • seek and utilize state resources for vaccine administration • leverage the public health infrastructure related to testing, contact tracing and case investigation, as well as community outreach and engagement • ensure that the County’s health professionals and other local stakeholders have all the necessary tools at their disposal. “All of these strategies were developed and strengthened during the COVID-19 response,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. “To prevent the community-wide spread of monkeypox infection, the key is prevention, and this include vaccinations.” The County has already taken multiple actions to deal with this emerging threat. It has been working with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community to develop messaging, education materials and to administer the limited number of vaccines coming to the area. The County has also been communicating with other local jurisdictions and community organizations. The County has conducted a forum, mass vaccination clinics and numerous other outreach efforts. To date, 3,987 doses of monkeypox vaccine have been received in San Diego County. As of August 1, a total of 46 confirmed and probable cases have been reported. Only one patient required hospitalization and there have been no deaths. All cases were males, and their ages range from 27 to 58 years of age. The region’s case count will now be updated daily, Monday through Friday. Two vaccination events have already taken place, where more than 1,400 monkeypox vaccines were administered over four days. The County has also made doses of vaccine available to local healthcare providers. Some monkeypox vaccine doses are also available at the County Public Health Centers and STD clinics. The County has also distributed 110 treatment courses of Tecovirimat, a drug used to treat monkeypox, to local health care organizations and County clinics. Given the scarcity of the monkeypox vaccine and as guided by the California Department of Public Health, the County is focusing on delivering first doses to as many people at high risk as possible. For the current outbreak, that includes men who have sex with multiple male partners and close contacts of reported cases. The County’s approach is in line with strategies in other large jurisdictions with monkeypox outbreaks, including New York City and San Francisco. The state allocates vaccines to counties based on the number of monkeypox, as well as the number of early syphilis cases in men reported in a region. The County also set up a text message alert system to send San Diegans real-time information about monkeypox in the region. To sign up to receive the messages, text COSD MONKEYPOX to 468-311. A social media messaging and education campaign is underway to raise awareness about monkeypox. For more information on monkeypox, how to prevent it, who should get vaccinated, visit the County’s monkeypox website at https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/ phs/community_epidemiology/dc/human-monkeypox.html or call 2-1-1. n

A patient gets a monkeypox vaccine at a recent vaccination event. File photo/www.countynewscenter.com

Jo Koy presented... PAGE 9 about during his set in Seattle where his mom would scan the sea of people after church and try to find people who looked like her, asking them if they were Filipinos, and apologizing if they were of a different ethnicity. “And as funny as that is, but that was her reality,” Koy related. “So we got to teach this generation the struggle that our ancestors went through for us so that we can live this one. And it’s crazy that in 2022, we’re still trying to make sure that she’s heard or he’s heard,” he reflected. He went on to cite Steven Spielberg and the studios for opening the doors for performers like him, and the hope that those doors are kept open so that other people can also walk in those doors. “Let’s try not to bring it back, let’s try not to close it on us ourselves. Let’s keep the door open, right?” he appealed. “And I just want to end it with this: if that door does close, I have the key to open it,” he said, eliciting a ton of laughs. “Love laughter and life. I know how cheesy that sounds, but that’s Filipinos to me. That’s all we do – we love, we laugh and we live, that’s it. And you see it right here

in Daly City. Look at us, we’re here and we’re all celebrating this moment together.” After the ceremony, Koy spent the time taking pictures with officials present at the morning rites and posing with fans and well-wishers. Koy is one of the few Filipino American comics with a wide following here and across the globe. The 51-year-old has a few Netflix specials to his credit, including one that is scheduled for release (Live at the Los Angeles Forum). Aside from appearances in “The Tonight Show” (both in Jay Leno and Jimmy Fallon’s iterations), “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” and “Last Call with Carson Daly,” Koy was a regular guest in Chelsea Handler’s late night gig, “Chelsea Lately.” Koy has a weekly podcast called “The Koy Pond,” aside from being heard on other podcasts. Just in July of this year, Koy appeared with film producer Dan Lin in the “Rise for Comedy” festival where they were able to raise a $75,000 donation for the nonprofit group Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA). Jo Koy’s new movie, “Easter Sunday,” will have its theatrical release on Friday, August 5. n

THE polls are now open, and Pechanga Resort Casino is in the running again for two prestigious national titles. The Temecula, California area casino/resort was nominated by a panel of experts in USA Today’s 10Best.com readers’ polls in the categories of Best Casino Hotel and Best Casino Outside of Las Vegas. Panelists selected Pechanga, along with 19 other contenders in each category. There are more than 1,000 casinos spread across the U.S., according to CasinoUSA. com. To vote for Pechanga Resort Casino in both categories, visitors can go to Pechanga.com/ vote. In 2021, readers voted Pechanga Resort Casino the second-Best Casino Outside of Las Vegas. Pechanga ranked fourth in the Best Casino Hotel category (throughout the U.S.). Voting is currently open to the public to choose their favorite destinations. Readers may vote for their favorites in each category once per day. The voting period ends Monday, August 29, at 8:59 a.m. Pacific Time. A results list of 10 winners is released after that date.

The USA Today 10Best Travel Guide readers’ polls ask guests to rate their favorite casinos and have appeared in various forms since 2015. Pechanga took the number one spot of Best Casino

in America that year. Following that, the publication split the poll into Best in Las Vegas and Best Outside of Las Vegas and added other related categories such as Best Casino Restaurant and Best

Casino Hotel. For more information on Pechanga Resort Casino, visit www.pechanga.com. Pechanga Resort Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the United States. Voted the number one casino in the country by USA Today and rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay. Offering 5,400 of hottest slots, 152 table games, a 1,100 room and suite hotel, dining, luxury spa, and golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort Casino features a destination that meets and exceeds the needs of its guests and the community. Pechanga Resort Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians. For more information, call toll free (877) 711-2946 or visit www.Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort Casino on Facebook and on Twitter @ PechangaCasino. (Advertising Supplement)

Mayor Gloria, Senate Leader Atkins unveil progress of Botanical Building renovation in Balboa Park Project underway to restore iconic horticultural landmark with $21M in city, state grant funding

SAN DIEGO – On Friday, July 29 Mayor Todd Gloria and Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins joined city staff and representatives from Forever Balboa Park to unveil progress of a $21 million renovation project on Balboa Park’s Botanical Building. Recognized as one of the most treasured and uniquely constructed buildings in San Diego, preliminary work is nearly complete in preparation for major renovations to begin in the coming months. “This project aims to restore one of the most iconic structures in our city’s crown jewel as faithfully as possible to what was built for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “The historic reconstruction of our beloved Botanical Building is a more than $21 million effort that would not have come to fruition without the $8 million state grant made possible by Senate President pro Tempore Toni Atkins. We are deeply grateful for this critical funding support.” The building has been closed to the public since January 2022 to remove and relocate many of the plants to an offsite nursery and to prepare the interior for renovation. Reconstruction work will begin later this year and is anticipated to be completed in December 2023. As part of the July 29 event, Mayor Gloria and Senator Leader Atkins removed and potted a lady palm sapling (Rhapis Excelsa) that was discovered growing in the exposed soil during

A view of the Botanical Building and Lily Pond inside Balboa Park in San Diego.

construction. The sapling will be housed in the city nursery and replanted inside the building once construction is complete. “Balboa Park has been appropriately referred to as the ‘crown jewel’ of San Diego, and one of the most picturesque buildings in the park is the Botanical Building,” said Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins. “It was heartening to have been able to help secure $8.26 million in state budget funding back in 2019, and it’s wonderful to see those funds being put to work for this icon, which was facing structural deterioration. It’s essential that we preserve this treasured landmark for San Diego and all who will come here to enjoy it.”

File photo/www.balboapark.org

The Botanical Building is one of the largest remaining structures in the world using lath, the thin strips of wood that form the large exterior arches of the building’s roof and center rotunda. Built with the adjacent Lily Pond, it is one of only four structures in Balboa Park that were designed to remain as permanent features following the 1915 Exposition. The building hosts thousands of visitors every year and was designed to showcase the importance of horticulture in California, featuring an eclectic variety of rare, tropical and indigenous fauna. Prior to the start of the construction project, more than two thousand plants were held inside. The renovation project will be completed in two phases. Phase

I is expected to cost $21,453,000 and includes restoration and structural improvements to the building, replacement of the redwood lath, reconstruction of the historic window arcades, planter upgrades, accessibility improvements and more. Phase II, which will be handled by the city’s nonprofit partner Forever Balboa Park, an organization dedicated to the care and enhancement of Balboa Park, will feature improvements to the exterior landscaping and irrigation, as well as reconstruction of the historic pergola. For more information about the Botanical Building project including construction updates, please visit sandiego.gov/ botanicalbuilding. (City of San Diego Release) n

Beyond the Stars: Star Magic sets 30th anniversary... PAGE 9 This is also consistent, he said, with Star Magic’s commitment to going global, not only through expansion of content production, but through championing the Filipino talent worldwide. “When we go to the States this coming August, we also planned out some immersion programs for them and some workshops they can take on so we can also elevate their artistry and their craft so that they are ready to conquer the world and be ready to be part of the global arena of international artists,” Dyogi, who took charge of the talent management agency in early 2021, said. Global events like these, he said, would help Star Magic talents hone their skills and give them exposure in the international global showbusiness industry. “We are trying to keep the tradition started by Mr. M (Johnny Manahan) but at the same time, we are trying to explore other things. We are re-creating our content. We are very active in social media. We are encouraging all our artists to be active in social media, and we now entering a new phase of getting to the live shows again. Star magic will definitely create new content for our artists and a lot of our projects will be a way of marketing them not only in the Philippines and TFC (The Filipino Channel) but globally,”he said. Dyogi, who is fondly called by his talents as Direk Lauren, said they are very excited to hold these concerts and give out kababayans very distinct shows. “I hope you are all excited as we are, to be returning to America in August for Star Magic’s 30th anniversary and Beyond the Stars concert. Hope to see you in one of our concerts,” he said. Chiu, who has been in most of the shows

of the ABS-CBN in the U.S. in the past, said what set these concerts apart from the previous ones are the “surprises” that they will give to their fans. “With Direk Lauren as our captain of the ship now, it feels different and iba na sya now and we’re gonna surprise you kung saan man kayo dyan sa New York, Sanfo, LA. It’s gonna be a new taste of show na ibibigay namin. It’s different compared with ASAP or past Star Magic shows that we did before. This is going to be something different, something new, exciting and lots and lots of talents na ipapakita namin na di pa nakikita ng maraming tao especially our Kapamilyas,” Chiu said. Two of the most popular talents of Star Magic, Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano, whose “Donbelle” tandem became a hit after their TV series “He’s Into Her” got remarkable response from showbiz enthusiasts, shared the same excitement of performing for the first time in the U.S. As this is her first time to travel to the U.S. and perform in front of a U.S. live audience, Mariano said she wants to give her all in the shows. “What we want to show and bring to them is home. A taste of home. We want to make it the best. We had rehearsals, workshops those are the factors that would help us bring the best to them,” Mariano, who would love to try eating hotdogs sold in food carts in the streets of New York, said. Pangilinan, son of actress Maricel Laxa and motivational speaker Anthony Pangilinan, said they are excited to meet their U.S.-based followers who have been dying to meet with them in person. “The fact that we will see our overseas supporters for the first time, I’m sure we’ve

seen you a lot but only through social media, digitally. We felt your support kahit di namin kyo nakikita physically, like what Kuya Zanjoe said, this is our way of thanking all of you for your overwhelming support for us and we promise to give you the best and we are just so excited, we have no words to describe how cool this is and super thrilled kami na makasama kayo. This is our (Belle) first out-of the-country date,” Pangilinan, a former VJ in Myx, said. Maymay Entrata, who became prominent after winning the reality game show, Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) five years ago, promised to sing “live” during the shows. Dyogi is also the executive producer of PBB. Entrata said they will also see to it that they will bring out laughter and joy to our kababayans all through out the shows. “Magiging masaya po sila sa simula hanggang matapos po ung show at yun po yung sinusigurado namin. This is going to an explosive show that they will enjoy from start to finish that we will assure our audience. Each and everyone of us will showcase our own talent that they have never seen before,” Entrata, who joined Star Magic in 2017, said. The other Star Magic talents lined up to join the three nights of exciting entertainment are: Andrea Brillantes; Gigi De Lana; AC Bonifacio; Kyle Echarri; Angela Ken; Sab; Lian Kyla; Janine Berdin; Eric Nicolas; Edward Barber; Alexa Ilacad; KD Estrada; Maris Racal; and Charlie Dizon. New York Show will be held in Kings Theater, Brooklyn on August 6, 2022. San Francisco Show will be held in The Warfield on August 12, 2022. Los Angeles Show will be at Saban Theater, Beverly Hills on August 14, 2022. n

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SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 5-11, 2022

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Pahrump seeing increased interest from commercial developers By RealtoR

Fely Quitevis-Bateman

PAHRUMP, a town located 62 miles west of Las Vegas, is seeing increased interest from commercial developers. According to an article in the Pahrump Valley Times, Nye County Planning Director Brett Waggoner told the county’s commissioners in early July that the planning department has received a lot of applications that are in the review or site development process for commercial development. Some, he said, are getting to the approval stage, and are actually starting to break ground. Among the projects Waggoner mentioned that are in the pipeline for the town included a medical facility, a car wash, restaurants, gas stations and overnight accommodations. Two much-anticipated chains coming to Pahrump, the Arby’s and Dutch Bros. Coffee locations, as well as the car wash, will be located on Highway 160, near the area of Nye County Veterinary Clinic and Tire Works, the article mentioned. A new medical facility, the Pahrump Community Health Center, had a recent groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the start of construction. The facility will, when it opens, provide surgical services and specialist care in the area which is not yet available. The gas stations in the pipeline include a Circle K on Homestead and Gamebird Roads, and a new Coyote Corner on Manse Road near the Mountain Falls Subdivision. The latter project, according to Waggoner, will have space for restaurants as well. The proposed hotel, meanwhile, is located on Highway 160 just behind the Maverick gas

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@ precious-properties.com or fely.precious@gmail.com.

station and directly across The Source, which is a marijuana dispensary that just opened recently. The chief planner of Nye County also talked about the developments going on at Spring Mountain Motor Resort, where the track portion of its expansion onto the property purchased from the Bureau of Land Management has been completed. He said added that the resort is now in the process of building accessory buildings to accommodate the track. Waggoner disclosed in the article that his department maintains a close-lipped policy when it comes to potential projects in the valley, opting only to discuss potential projects when development officially begins. His office is always in discussions with prospective developers. Certainly, the town of Pahrump has undergone major changes since it was established and slowly inhabited by settlers in the late 19th century. Nowadays, there are a lot more things to do and explore around the town, including trips to local casinos, recreational activities, do some shopping at local stores and even visit the Pahrump Valley Museum to check out the town’s fascinating history. If nature-tripping is your favorite activity, birdwatching is an option at Discovery Park, which is an abandoned golf course converted by locals and the Red Rock Audobon into a park. Over 176 bird species are said to graze in the park. Hiking in the area’s famous trails, whether on foot or via ATV, mountain bikes or off-road vehicles is another option for those seeking to commune and/or experience nature. It won’t be Nevada unless you visit the town’s gambling dens, which includes Lakeside Casino & RV Park, Gold Town Casino (formerly Terrible’s Town Casino), Pahrump Nugget and Saddle West Hotel. Each of these places have their own amenities and charms, and provides accommodations and entertainment for the weary traveler or excited tourist. You can also ride a horse at the Happy Hoof Beats Equestrian, play golf at Mountain Falls Golf Club, drive a race car at Spring Mountain Motor Resort and Country Club, ride a hot air balloon over the valley, or enjoy a bottle of fine wine at Pahrump Valley Winery. By the way, at Spring Mountain Motor Resort and Country Club, crossing off race car driving in your to-do list is not the only thing it offers. The place also is where one can indulge in a variety of watersports (swimming, wakeboarding, kayaking, paddle boarding, water jetpack), practical shooting and racquetball, in addition to its topnotch food and clubhouse facilities/amenities. Residents themselves have even organized sports and recreational groups to bond together and enjoy the town’s vast natural beauty. These include walking/hiking groups and biking clubs, as well as bowling clubs/leagues, billiards groups and indoor swimming clubs, to name a few. There is a lot more than meets the eye in Pahrump. Both visitors and residents have a lot of activities to indulge in. And with Las Vegas only about an hour or less away, the possibilities for fun and excitement increase exponentially. As of now, Pahrump is one of those towns where land and property are more affordable than other parts of the country, or even Nevada. Nye County, which Pahrump is situated in, keeps

Construction is ongoing at the second Circle K gas station outlet in the town.

The Coyote Corner gas station near the entrance to Mountain Falls Subdivision, where the late President Fidel V. Ramos played golf at during his stay with Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman in 2007.

The Source, a newly-opened cannabis dispensary in Pahrump.

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (right) with CEO Mark Maiyoka who just bought a $2.6M medical building in Pahrump.

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (extreme left) with (from left) Nye County Chief Planner Brett Waggoner and newly-elected Commissioner Ronald Boskovich.

experiencing an increase in population, which indicates that many people are looking into the area as major cities get overpopulated and real estate prices get too high. I have been a Realtor for many decades now and have seen the growth of Pahrump. I consider it one of the best towns to live in. With many residential and commercial developments coming into the area, and many planned projects that will add to the diversity of the town’s entertainment offerings, it truly is a good place to look for a home, an investment property or a piece of land

that you may want to construct your dream home in or sell for a profit later. My company, Precious Properties, is a fullservice company that has served its clientele since 1992. You can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805-559-2476 and 702-538-4948 for more information, or send me an email at fely@ precious-properties.com or fely.precious@gmail. com. We have investors who buy houses in California and Nevada for cash and quick escrow in as short as 7 days. (Advertising Supplement)

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AUGUST 5-11, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588