09062025 Los Angeles Edition

Shift in federal contracting goals cuts support for disadvantaged businesses

The U.S. government is raising overall small-business contracting goals but cutting back special targets for minority, women, and disadvantaged firms, reshaping who benefits from billions in federal contracts

WAshiNGtoN, D.c — the federal government is changing the way it awards contracts to small businesses. While overall targets for small-business awards are going up, the special goals meant to help disadvantaged groups such as minority-owned, women-owned, and businesses in underserved areas have been cut back to the minimum levels required by law.

A step back from equity goals in January, the small Business Administration (sBA) announced that agency goals for disadvantaged businesses would return to the basic floors set by congress: 5% for minority-owned firms, 5% for women-owned,

HUD orders nationwide audits of immigration status in public housing

WAshiNGtoN, D.c. — housing and Urban Development (hUD) secretary scott turner has directed public housing authorities (PhAs) across the country to conduct 30day audits of resident files to verify citizenship or eligible immigration status. the move is part of a trump administration initiative to ensure federal housing benefits are not extended to ineligible non-citizens. the order follows a march 24 memorandum of understanding (moU) between hUD and the Department of homeland security (Dhs) that set up data-sharing and enforcement coordination. At the signing, Dhs secretary Kristi Noem said, “if you are an illegal immigrant, you should leave now. the gravy train is over.” hUD has also embedded a fulltime staff member at Dhs to oversee the effort. What the directive means • Audit deadline. PHAs have 30 days to complete immigration status checks. hUD has not yet published a formal Public and in-

Ghost projects put PH flood-control funds under siege

by AJPress

investment the Armed forces of the Philippines has made in the strategic Batanes island chain.

mANilA — the Philippines has activated a new military base in the taiwan strait, a move analysts say could improve manila’s ability to monitor the contested waterway, but also risks drawing the country deeper into a future conflict between china and taiwan. the mahatao forward operating base sits on Batan island, just 120 miles south of taiwan. it is the biggest military

Alice Guo faces another round of criminal and admin cases

by Kathleen de Villa Inquirer.net

mANilA — Dismissed Bamban mayor Alice Guo is facing another round of criminal and administrative cases — including graft — over erroneous payment of taxes for one of the properties used in the Philippine offshore gaming operators (PoGo) that once operated in the tarlac town during her term. National Bureau of investigation (NBi) chief Jaime santiago on thursday said the complaint, specifically for allegedly violating sec 3(e) and 3(g) of the Anti-Graft and corrupt Practices

While the facility will have little immediate impact on chinese maritime activities in the waterway, analysts say it signals manila's goal of deterring Beijing through military buildup rather than hoping neutrality will provide it protection.

china in recent years has stepped up large-scale military drills around taiwan, frequently sending its assets around the

Mayor Vico Sotto urges calm as public outcry grows over Discaya construction allegations

lifestyle gains momentum after Mayor Vico Sotto calls out alleged pay-for-play schemes, reinforcing calls for accountability and institutional reform

by AJPress

PAsiG citY, Philippines — Pasig city mayor Vico sotto urged calm and lawful action following a protest outside st. Gerrard construction, a company owned by the Discaya family. on thursday, september 4,

demonstrators—including flood victims and activist groups— threw mud and vandalized the company’s gates, expressing outrage over alleged corruption and substandard work in government flood control projects linked to the Discayas. spray-painted slo-

From The FronT Page

Campaign donations, flood-control contracts...

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similarly, sen. Joel Villanue-

va disclosed a P20-million contribution from New san Jose Builders, inc. (NsJBi), which had secured a P2.147-billion housing contract in 2021. While no formal charges have been filed, watchdog groups have argued that such donations may test the boundaries of section 95 of the omnibus election code, which prohibits government contractors from contributing to candi-

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) INVITATION FOR BID

lAcmtA will receive bids for c134708c1240 - corrosion control at the 9th floor receptionist Desk, Vendor/contract management Department, one Gateway Plaza, los Angeles, cA 90012. this project is a small Business enterprise (sBe) set-Aside contract. to participate in this ifB, bidders must be sBe certified with lAcmtA prior to proposal due date. for information on the set-Aside program, visit: https://business.metro.net/ webcenter/portal/VendorPortal/ pages_home/smallbusinesstools/smallbusinessprimepro -

gram All Bids must be submitted on forms furnished by lAcmtA, and must be filed at the reception desk, 9th floor, V/cm Department, on or before 2:00 p.m. Pacific time on Wednesday, october 1, 2025, at which time bids will be opened and publicly read. Bids received later than the above date and time will be rejected and returned to the bidder unopened. each bid must be sealed and marked Bid No. c134708c1240.

for a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro.net or for further information email Diana Dai-tsang at daitsangd@ metro.net.

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dates. Senate cites flood-control contractors in contempt in a parallel development, the senate Blue ribbon committee approved contempt citations against ma. roma Angeline D. rimando, owner-manager of st. timothy construction corporation, and eumir s. Villanueva, president of topnotch catalyst Builders inc., for failing to appear at hearings on alleged irregularities in flood-control projects. committee chair sen. rodante marcoleta, backed by sen. ronald “Bato” dela rosa and senate President Pro tempore Jinggoy estrada, said the measures are intended to compel testimony. senate President escudero had previously authorized subpoenas after multiple contractors did not attend hearings. lawmakers are reviewing reports of “ghost” or substandard projects and the clustering of flood-control contracts among a small circle of firms. According to a dataset from the Philippine center for investigative Journalism (PciJ), 9,855 flood-control projects worth over P545 billion were approved between July 2022 and may 2025, with politically connected companies receiving a disproportionate share.

Overlapping questions of influence the dual probes—comelec’s

review of contractor-linked donations and the senate’s inquiry into infrastructure contracts— have intensified public discussion about potential conflicts of interest.

legal experts note that while contractors are barred from campaign donations, questions remain over whether contributions made by company executives in a personal capacity fall under the prohibition. At the same time, the senate has emphasized its authority to cite absentees in contempt, citing the supreme court ruling in linconn Uy ong v. senate(2023), which upheld legislative powers while requiring due process.

Ongoing developments comelec stressed that any ruling on campaign finance violations must come from the commission en banc or the courts, while the senate indicated it will continue hearings into flood-control contracts. President ferdinand marcos Jr. has also called for full accountability in infrastructure spending, even as watchdogs advocate for stricter campaign finance rules to prevent blurred lines between public contracts and political influence.

As of press time, the firms and executives cited have not publicly issued statements in response.

Alice Guo faces another round of criminal and admin...

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Act; as well as for alleged gross misconduct, serious dishonesty, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, was filed before the office of the ombudsman. the complaint covers private individuals and other Bamban local government personnel who were supposedly “in cahoots” with each other over the “unauthorized” use and construction of PoGo buildings.

According to santiago, the appraised value of the property in question was P3.9 billion, but the owners paid only a total of P10,000.

This is grossly disadvantageous to the government,” he said, adding that the investigation into the alleged violations remains ongoing as they look for more evidence with the help of the Presidential Anti-organized crime commission.

the new set of cases against Guo comes after the Department of Justice (DoJ) in may filed 62 counts of money laundering charges over financial transactions using instruments or properties obtained from illegal activities. the former mayor, who is detained in the female dormitory of the Pasig city Jail, is also charged with human trafficking, to which she pleaded not guilty in september last year. n

Ghost projects put PH flood...

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alone across dozens of projects. the figures are now subject to coA audit; company representatives have denied wrongdoing. meanwhile, sarah Discaya, a contractor questioned in senate hearings, faced scrutiny over her fleet of 28 luxury vehicles. Discaya denied any link between her wealth and public contracts, and no court has found her liable.

Audit ramp-up under COA the commission on Audit (coA), under chair Gamaliel cordoba, ordered a performance audit of DPWh flood-control projects from January 2022 to July 2025. inspectors are now required to provide geo-tagged photos and videos of completed works.

coA officials have announced they will file charges this month against DPWh officials and contractors allegedly tied to ghost projects, underscoring the urgency of the probe.

Leadership shake-up at DPWH the controversy has already reshaped the DPWh secretary manuel Bonoan resigned, and Vince Dizon was appointed as his replacement. Dizon immediately suspended all local bid-

ding for flood-control projects, demanded courtesy resignations from senior officials, and promised to blacklist contractors under investigation.

Legal actions escalate the Department of Justice (DoJ) has issued immigration lookout Bulletin orders (ilBos) against 43 individuals, including contractors and officials linked to questionable projects. the office of the ombudsman has also formed a special panel to evaluate administrative and criminal liability.

finance secretary ralph recto placed the economic impact of ghost projects at P118.5 billion between 2023 and 2025— resources that could have gone to genuine infrastructure and disaster relief.

Allegations of kickbacks former senator Panfilo lacson has alleged that “layers of kickbacks” siphon off up to 60% of project budgets, leaving only about 40% for real construction. these remain allegations, not judicial findings, but they frame the scale of graft lawmakers suspect. Public and clergy pressure on september 4, a coalition of 30 civic and business groups demanded the creation of an independent commis-

sion to probe the flood-control anomalies, calling the graft “a betrayal of public trust.” President marcos has signaled openness to such a body. the catholic church has joined calls for accountability, urging filipinos to stand against corruption as a moral and civic imperative. While much of the outrage has unfolded online, activist groups are beginning to mobilize on the streets. The human toll the scandal comes as flooding continues to devastate communities. in late July 2025, storms and monsoon rains displaced 278,000 filipinos and left 25 dead, according to the disaster agency. many of the worst-hit areas were those slated for flood-control projects now under scrutiny. the ghost project scandal has become one of the most sweeping corruption controversies in years. With coA preparing charges, DoJ issuing ilBos, DPWh leadership reshuffled, and civil society mobilizing, the fight has shifted to whether reforms and prosecutions will outlast the scandal cycle. for millions living in floodprone areas, accountability is not just about justice—it is about survival. n

ICC bars Duterte family from disclosing...

alive,” she told reporters, declining to provide further details in line with icc instructions.

Case status rodrigo Duterte was arrested in the Philippines on march 11, 2025, under an icc warrant, and transferred to the hague a day later. he made his initial court appearance on march 14. the icc

Pre-trial chamber has scheduled a confirmation-of-charges hearing for september 23, 2025, where judges will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. Until a conviction, he is presumed inno-

cent. Duterte faces accusations of crimes against humanity linked to extrajudicial killings during the “war on drugs.” he has denied wrongdoing. Why the ICC enforces confidentiality According to icc detention regulations, family visits are permitted but subject to conditions imposed by the registrar. the rules specifically allow the court to restrict public disclosure of visit details if sharing information could compromise judicial proceedings, infringe on detainee rights, or violate facility protocols.

similar conditions have been applied in previous icc cases to protect the integrity of ongoing hearings. What this means the icc’s directive leaves the Duterte family unable to update the public on the former president’s welfare beyond confirming his continued detention. No changes have been announced regarding his case schedule, and the family has complied with the confidentiality rules. the september 23 hearing in the hague remains the next critical stage in proceedings that could move the case toward trial. n

Shift in federal contracting goals cuts support...

5% for veteran-owned, and 3% for businesses in economically struggling areas (hUBZones).

Attorney stephanie ellis explained that after President Donald trump signed an order ending most federal diversity and inclusion programs, “the aim … was to remove those programs that focused on diversity and equity and inclusion.”

this marks a significant shift.

Just last year, federal agencies were working toward a much higher government-wide goal of 15% for minority-owned firms by 2025.

Winners and losers

• Small businesses overall:

Agencies like the General services Administration (GsA) raised their overall small-business goals.

GsA set its 2025 target at 25% of all contract dollars. that means

there are more chances for small businesses in general.

• Minority- and women-owned businesses: With goals cut back to the legal minimum, these firms may face tougher competition and fewer set-asides compared to recent years.

• Veteran-owned businesses: one group that gained ground is veteran-owned firms. thanks to a law passed in 2024, their goal is now 5%, up from the previous 3%.

Significance of the policy shift the federal government is one of the largest buyers of goods and services in the world. each year, it spends hundreds of billions of dollars on everything from technology and construction to cleaning services and office supplies. A change of just a few percentage points in con-

Mayor Vico Sotto urges calm as public outcry grows over...

gans labeled the family as “thieves,” highlighting public frustration with perceived pay-for-play practices.

mayor sotto stressed the importance of peaceful advocacy, telling the public, let's not resort to violence.” he assured that the local government is coordinating with national agencies to ensure accountability. there are no shortcuts,” he added, calling on citizens to pursue justice through lawful means. the social media movement against the Discaya family’s ostentatious lifestyle gained renewed momentum after mayor sotto publicly called out alleged pay-for-play practices by certain media personalities. the spotlight included sarah Discaya, a former political rival in the 2025 Pasig mayoral race, whose campaign and business dealings have drawn scrutiny. these developments intensified public demand for accountability and institutional reform, with sotto’s advocacy serving as a catalyst for heightened civic engagement and closer examination of entrenched power networks. investigations show that two of the Discaya family’s firms, Alpha & omega General contractor & Development corp. and st. timothy construction corporation, are among 15 companies that secured substantial portions of the government’s flood control budget, raising questions about monopolistic practices and the quality of infrastructure delivered.

Adding to scrutiny, the Bureau of customs has seized 28 luxury vehicles linked to the Discayas, following earlier confiscation of 12 luxury cars during a separate office search. these actions have intensified public focus on the family’s business dealings and alleged corruption. mayor sotto’s call for lawful advocacy comes at a time of heightened civic attention, underscoring the need for transparent investigations, accountability, and institutional reform. n

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors is seeking applicants who wish to serve th unexpired term of the elected SAN DIEGO COUNTY TREASURER-TAX COLLECTOR

the mission of the san Diego county treasurer-tax collector is to provide the residents, agencies and employees of san Diego county with superior financial services in terms of quality, timeliness, efficiency and value while maintaining the highest levels of customer service and satisfaction. the office oversees the collection of more than $9.1 billion in property taxes every year, dealing with both secured property, like buildings and unsecured property like boats, racehorses, etc. the office also collects the transient occupancy tax from establishments in unincorporated parts of the county. in the treasury, the office manages the county investment pool, which ranges in size from $10.2 - $18.8 billion in assets on an annual basis. the treasury is also the paying agent for all 42 school districts in the region.

the person appointed by the Board will be expected to complete the current term that expires on January 4, 2027. Applicants for this position must:

be a registered voter of the county of san Diego;

be a citizen of the United states and the state of california; not have been convicted of any crime disqualifying the applicant from holding elected office; meet one of the following criteria: minimum of 3 years in a senior financial management role in a public agency (e.g., treasurer, auditor, tax collector, or assistant roles); or Bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree in business, public administration, economics, finance, accounting, or related field with at least 16 semester units in accounting, auditing, or finance; or certified Public Accountant (cPA) licensed by the california state Board of Accountancy; or chartered financial Analyst (cfA) designation with at least 16 semester units in accounting, auditing, or finance; or certified cash manager (ccm) designation with at least 16 semester units in accounting, auditing, or finance. complete the application process; and be able to formally assume the position not later than twenty (20) business days following the selection by the Board of supervisors. finalists will be subject to a background check and the selected candidate will be required to pass the county's standard medical exam and full background investigation.

All candidates submit their completed application form in person at: san Diego county clerk of the Board of supervisors county Administration center 1600 Pacific highway, room 402 san Diego, california, 92101 completed applications must be submitted in person to the clerk of the Board of supervisors by monday, september 22, 2025, at 12 noon Visit www.sandiegocob.com for more information.

tracting goals can shift billions of dollars in opportunities. for small firms, winning a federal contract can be the difference between steady growth and shutting down. for disadvantaged businesses, losing targeted opportunities may mean fighting harder to compete against larger or more established players.

Implications for small and disadvantaged businesses the new rules open the door wider for small businesses in general, but they also narrow the lanes that once gave disadvantaged groups a better chance to win contracts. Veteran-owned firms gained momentum, but minority-owned and women-owned companies will now face stiffer competition. the government’s money is still on the table, but who gets a fair shot at it has changed. (AJPress)

EB-2 visa category hits cap, unavailable until October

the eB-2 immigrant visa category—reserved for advanced-degree professionals, those with exceptional ability, and National interest Waiver applicants—has reached its annual limit for fiscal Year 2025 and is unavailable through september 30. the U.s state Department confirmed that no additional

eB-2 green cards will be approved or issued until october 1, 2025, when new numbers are released. Uscis will still accept adjustment-of-status applications if the applicant’s priority date is current under the september Visa Bulletin, but approvals are paused. final Action cut-off dates re-

9/6/25

Los Angeles Uber riders can now pay with cash as option expands

by AJPress

UBer is introducing a new way to pay in select U.s. cities: cash. Verified riders can now hand fares directly to drivers, a shift for a platform long built on digital payments. the option, piloted this spring, has expanded across multiple markets, including san Diego. How it works only riders with verified accounts may choose “cash” in the app before requesting a trip. Drivers see a “Verified” and “cash” badge before accepting. At drop-off, riders pay the fare shown. Drivers are not required to provide change. overpayments convert into Uber cash credit; shortfalls must be resolved in-app before another ride is booked. in-app tipping is disabled for cash trips, but riders may tip in cash. Drivers subtract the tip from the total they enter. cash trips are unavailable between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., cannot include added stops or destination changes, and are excluded

from scheduled Uber reserve rides.

Availability Uber launched the feature in cincinnati and san Antonio in march, added Dallas, orlando, and fort myers in April, and expanded further in late summer to large markets such as los Angeles, san Diego, tampa, Jacksonville, and laredo. Availability varies by city; riders see the option in-app where supported. Safeguards and limitations the move is designed for riders who are unbanked, un-

derbanked, or prefer cash. to reduce risks, Uber requires account verification, limits hours of use, and enforces clear rules for disputes. if a rider underpays, Uber—not the driver—collects the balance.

the company stresses that cash rides must be booked and recorded through the app. off-app cash deals remain prohibited and can lead to driver deactivation. riders are also reminded that Uber cash refers to prepaid digital credit, not physical currency. n

Foreigners can now lease land in the Philippines for up to 99 years

mANilA — foreign investors seeking to do business in the Philippines can now lease land for up to a century. in a new law signed by President ferdinand marcos Jr., foreign investors can now lease land for up to 99 years — an additional 49 years from what the law previously allowed. the aggregate period of the lease contract shall not exceed 99 years; provided that upon the recommendation of the fiscal incentives review Board (firB) or other relevant government agencies, the President of the Philippines may impose a shorter lease period for investors engaged in vital services or industries considered as critical infrastructure,” the republic Act 12252 stated. the new law amends the investors' lease Act, extending the

time that a foreign investor may lease land. shorter leases may also be granted in the interest of national security or other purposes. the amendment outlines the requirements foreign investors must meet when entering a lease contract, including an approved investment project under the foreign investments Act of 1991, a technical description of the property and other necessary documents. the lease contract can be terminated if the foreign investor fails to commence with their intended investment project within three years of signing the contract. the law does not appear to specify the exact maximum duration for which a foreign investor can extend their lease, nor how many times the lease can be renewed.

Philstar.com has sought clari-

fication from the Palace and will update the story upon receiving a response. for foreigners who are leasing land in the Philippines without making an investment, the prevailing rules under Presidential Decree 471 will apply, which limits lease terms for aliens to a maximum of 25 years. contracts that violate this law may be subject to penalties ranging from a fine of P1 million to P10 million or imprisonment from six months to six years, depending on the court's decision. Under the 1987 constitution, foreigners are prohibited from owning land in the Philippines. only filipinos or corporations at least 60% owned by filipinos are permitted to own land.

leasing land has been allowed as an alternative, but the lease term is limited to 50 years, with a one-time renewal option for an additional 25 years. n

HUD orders nationwide audits of immigration...

dian housing (Pih) notice, but the deadline was outlined in letters to PhAs.

• Legal authority. Federal law already bars undocumented immigrants from receiving housing aid under section 214 of the housing and community Development Act. turner’s order enforces these rules rather than changing them.

• Mixed-status families.

households with both citizens and non-citizens remain eligible for prorated benefits.

• Other changes. In April, hUD also revised fhA mortgage rules, making many non-permanent residents—including DAcA recipients—ineligible for fhA-insured loans.

Concerns from critics housing advocates say the crackdown could destabilize low-income families, especially mixed-status households with U.s. citizen children, and may

LOS ANGELES COUNTY

AUTHORITY (LACMTA) INVITATION FOR BID

lAcmtA will receive Bids/Proposals for oP1096958370(2) - VeNDiNG mAchiNes AND AssociAteD serVices submitted electronically via email to bids@ metro.net.

A Virtual Pre-Bid conference will be held online on thursday, september 4, 2025, 2:00 p.m. All Bids must be submitted electronically via email to bids@metro.net, on or before 10:00 a.m. Pacific time on thursday, october 2, 2025. at which time bids will be opened and publicly read. Bids received after the above date and time may be rejected and returned unopened. each Bid must be sealed and marked Bid No. oP1096958370(2). for a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro.net or for further information email ricardo Narvaez at narvaezr@metro.net.

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fuel homelessness. civil rights groups also raised privacy concerns over expanded data-sharing between hUD and Dhs critics argue that while the directive targets eligibility, it does not address the root shortage of affordable housing.

What residents need to know Who is affected?

• Residents in public housing or receiving section 8 vouchers.

• U.S. citizens, permanent residents, refugees, asylees, and certain other categories remain eligible.

• Mixed-status families may still receive prorated aid. What will PhAs do?

• Review all resident files within 30 days.

• Ask tenants for updated documentation if needed.

Documents that may be required:

• Citizens: Birth certificate, U.s. passport, or other proof.

• Non-citizens: Green card,

refugee/asylee papers, or Dhs records.

if ineligible:

• Mixed-status families keep prorated aid.

• Fully ineligible households could lose benefits after notice. the law has not changed— audits are an enforcement step. tenants should prepare their documents now to avoid disruptions.

Continuing developments

hUD will be monitoring compliance by local housing authorities over the next month. if PhAs fail to meet the audit deadline, their federal funding could come under review. legal challenges from civil-rights groups are likely, particularly around privacy protections and treatment of mixed-status families. community organizations are advising tenants to gather documentation promptly and seek assistance from housing advocates if questions arise. (AJPress)

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) INVITATION FOR BID

Philippines’ new military base near...

island in exercises designed to simulate a blockade.

Beijing considers taiwan a renegade province and has not ruled out using force to bring the island under its control. here's why the Philippines believes it cannot stay neutral in a taiwan conflict and how the new base fits into its defense calculations.

Geography makes neutrality impossible the Philippines sits at the center of any potential taiwan invasion scenario, whether manila wants involvement or not.

President ferdinand marcos Jr. previously said the Philippines would be dragged "kicking and screaming" into any war over taiwan due to geography and the presence of some 200,000 filipino workers in the self-ruled island. the luzon strait, where the new base sits, is a 200-mile-wide waterway that serves as a critical passage chinese forces would likely need to control to attack taiwan effectively, rommel ong, ex-Navy vice commander and intelligence chief, told Philstar.com. We can always stick our heads into the ground and wish that the Chinese will be benevolent enough not to get us involved in any future conflict," ong said. "But President Marcos is correct... Even if we stay neutral, we will be dragged into the conflict because of geographical proximity and the presence of our OFWs in Taiwan.

If Beijing really intends to physically attack Taiwan, they have to control the Bashi Channel," ong said. "To do so, they will be compelled to occupy key islands in the Batanes Group of Islands because of its strategic location." the AfP has publicly acknowledged this reality. Armed forces

chief Gen. romeo Brawner Jr. told troops in northern luzon in April to prepare "for actions in case there is an invasion of taiwan," saying the Philippines would "inevitably" become involved in such a conflict.

Base built for monitoring so what exactly will the AfP do with their new northern outpost?

the facility will host Navy and marine units tasked with monitoring the luzon strait and securing the Batanes islands. the base has been described by the AfP as "a platform for territorial defense, maritime domain awareness, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response

operations.

Northern luzon command chief lt. Gen. fernyl Buca, during the inauguration of the facility, said it "strengthens our ability to defend the northern frontier" and ensures that troops in the northern command, together with the Province of Batanes, "can respond swiftly to both security challenges and disasters.

rear Adm. roy Vincent trinidad, Navy spokesman for the West Philippine sea, said the base would allow Philippine forces to "secure and protect what is ours in the maritime domain further than we have right now."

But analysts say the base's immediate military impact will be limited.

The establishment of the facility will not affect deployment of Chinese government and militia vessels in the Luzon Strait or Balintang Channel," ong told Philstar.com. instead, its value lies mainly in surveillance—if it becomes "a local node for maritime domain awareness, connecting other monitoring stations such as Mavulis and in Basco, then connecting it to the central node based here in Manila."

collin Koh, a maritime security analyst and fellow at singapore's s rajaratnam school of international studies, said the base serves dual purposes depending on its planned facilities.

On the one hand, given it overlooks the strategic Bashi Channel, the [forward operating base] has maritime defense and security utility," Koh told Philstar.com.

On the other hand, this [forward operating base] can facilitate non-combatant evacuation operations in the event of a conflict in Taiwan.

A calculated risk the decision to open a base now, after years of relative inaction in Batanes, points to the deteriorating security environment around taiwan.

I believe the Taiwan crisis scenario has been brewing for a

while, so from a practical standpoint, this FOB plan was somewhat belated," Koh said. "Given the heightening tensions in Taiwan Strait, it's considered a bold move given ongoing tensions with Beijing, especially given the latter's rhetoric and coercive acts in [the West Philippine Sea]. taiwan in July launched its largest and longest military drills in history — a 10-day exercise aimed at testing defenses against a potential chinese invasion. marcos' remarks about the inevitability of the Philippines getting involved in a potential conflict over taiwan have also drawn Beijing's ire.

Testing the waters the timing of the base's activation comes shortly after the AfP flagged an uptick in chinese maritime activity in the area. in August, three armed chinese coast Guard vessels were spotted in a "bracketing pattern" around Batanes — the first time maritime security experts had observed such behavior so far north. the three ships — large, armed cutters carrying 37mm and 76mm guns — positioned themselves on both the eastern and western sides of Batanes. china usually sends its ships to swarm the waters off contested areas in the south china sea, hundreds of miles to the southwest. Beijing refuses to recognize the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated its sweeping maritime claims and usually says its "patrols" in the south china sea are legitimate exercises of chinese sovereignty.

Koh warned that "besides the rhetoric coming from Beijing, we must expect chinese maritime forces to be observed operating more frequently close to the island in the foreseeable future." ong said: "the best long-term solution for the country is to deter China now by strengthening our defenses, disrupting their current calculations, and deterring it." n

lAcmtA will receive Bids/ Proposals for mA133546BiKe rAcKat the 9th floor receptionist Desk, Vendor/ contract management Department, one Gateway Plaza, los Angeles, cA 90012. A Pre-Bid conference will not be held. All Bids must be submitted to lAcmtA, and be filed at the reception desk, 9th floor, V/cm Department, on or before 1:00 p.m. Pacific time on Wednesday, october 29, 2025, at which time bids will be opened and publicly read. Bids received after the above date and time may be rejected and returned unopened. each Bid must be sealed and marked Bid No. mA133546. for a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro.net or for further information email Joshua haskins at haskinsj@metro.net.

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lAcmtA will receive Bids/ Proposals for oP134899 - 7th and metro traction Power substation (tPss) replacement online at bids@metro. net. A Pre-Bid conference will be held on Wednesday september 3, 2025, 10:00 a.m., Virtual meeting: online. All Bids must be submitted electronically to lAcmtA on or before 10:00 a.m. Pacific time on monday, september 29, 2025. Bids received after the above date and time may be rejected and returned unopened. include Bid No. oP134899 in the email subject. for a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro.net or for further information email misty Atalanta Alderaan at atalantam@metro. net.

9/6/25

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LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

lAcmtA will receive Proposals for oP122327(4) - tunnel Washing services electronically via email at bids@ metro.net. All Proposals must be submitted electronically to lAcmtA, at bids@metro.net on or before 11:00 a.m. Pacific time on thursday, october 2, 2025. Proposals received after the above date and time may be rejected. each proposal email must include Proposal No. oP122327(4) in the subject line of the email. for a copy of the Proposal specification visit our solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro. net or for further information email Andrew coppolo at coppoloa@metro.net.

9/6/25

cNs-3964394# AsiAN JoUrNAl (l.A.)

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) INVITATION FOR BID

lAcmtA will receive Bids/ Proposals for oP131234(2) - 5-Pickup trucksat the 9th floor receptionist Desk, Vendor/contract management Department, one Gateway Plaza, los Angeles, cA 90012. A Pre-Bid conference will not be held. All Bids shall be submitted electronically, including all submittals forms, electronically via email to bids@metro.net, on or before 2:00 p.m. Pacific time on friday, october 3, 2025, at which time bids will be opened and publicly read. Bids received after the above date and time may be rejected and returned unopened. each Bid must be sealed and marked Bid No. oP131234(2). for a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro.net or for further information email tina hoffstetter at hoffstettert@metro.net.

9/6/25

cNs-3964401# AsiAN JoUrNAl (l.A.)

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) INVITATION FOR BID

lAcmtA will receive Bids/ Proposals for oP130922(2)scaffolding services at the 9th floor receptionist Desk, Vendor/contract management Department, one Gateway Plaza, los Angeles, cA 90012. A virtual Pre-Bid conference will be held on monday, september 8, 2025, 11:00 a.m.,. All Bids

time may be rejected and returned unopened. each Bid must be sealed and marked Bid No. oP130922(2). for a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro.net or for further information email tina hoffstetter at hoffstettert@metro.net.

9/6/25 cNs-3964409# AsiAN JoUrNAl (l.A.)

DAteline PhiliPPines

BOC now holds 28 Discaya luxury cars; PCAB revokes licenses of 9 Discaya firms

by AJPress

the st. Gerrard construction compound in Pasig city and 16 additional units later surrendered voluntarily. Among the vehicles identified are a mer-

cedes-Benz Gle, range rover sUVs, and a cadillac

escalade esV. customs said the cars will undergo verification of import records, duties, and tax compliance while the investigation proceeds.

Nine contractor licenses revoked separately, PcAB issued Board resolution No. 075 on sept. 1, canceling the licenses of nine Discaya-owned firms. the companies include st. Gerrard construction Gen. contractor & Dev’t corp., Alpha & omega Gen. contractor & Dev’t corp., st. timothy construction corp., Amethyst horizon Builders and Gen. contractor & Dev’t corp., st. matthew General contractor & Development corp., Great Pacific Builders and General contractor, inc., YPr General contractor and construction supply, inc., Way maker oPc, and elite General contractor and Development corp. the resolution directed that government agencies such as the Department of Public Works and highways (DPWh), the Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB), and the securities and exchange commission (sec) be notified. PcAB also referred the matter to the National Bureau of investigation (NBi) and the Department of Justice (DoJ) for possible further action.

Discaya camp response counsel for the Discayas said the revocations will be appealed, maintaining that due process should be observed.

Regulatory context the Boc action concerns compliance with customs and tax laws on vehicle importation, while the PcAB decision pertains to contractor licensing standards. Neither measure represents a final judicial ruling on criminal liability. formal determinations, if any, would rest with the courts and investigative agencies. n

Metro Pacific Tollways appoints ex-Philippine Airlines chief Gilbert Santa Maria as CEO

Metro Pacific Tollways Corp., the Philippines’ largest toll road operator, has named ex-Philippine Airlines president Gilbert Santa Maria as CEO, marking its third leadership shakeup in a year

by AJPress

mANilA — metro Pacific tollways corporation (mPtc), the toll road subsidiary of tycoon manuel V. Pangilinan’s metro Pacific investments corporation (mPic), has appointed former Philippine Airlines president Gilbert Gabriel santa maria as its new President and chief executive officer, effective september 1, 2025. santa maria, who guided PAl through a U.s chapter 11 restructuring during the pandemic, brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across aviation, telecommunications, and outsourcing. he is expected to stabilize mPtc’s management after a year of executive turnover while pushing forward expansion projects in the Philippines, indonesia, and Vietnam. the appointment marks mPtc’s third leadership shakeup in under a year. Pangilinan himself briefly served as interim chief, followed by longtime executive Jose ma. lim, who came out of retirement to steady the company. earlier this year, Arrey Perez also held the role briefly before being reas-

signed. lim will remain a director in mPtc mPic, and related firms. mPtc is the Philippines’ largest toll road operator, managing key expressways and bridges including the North luzon expressway (NleX), subic–clark–tarlac expressway (scteX), cavite expressway (cAViteX), cavite–laguna expressway (cAlAX), cebu–cordova link expressway (ccleX), and the NleX connector road. Beyond the country, the company has invested in toll road concessions in indonesia and Vietnam, positioning itself as a regional infrastructure player.

santa maria takes over as mPtc advances a pipeline of major projects: completing cAlAX, constructing the cAViteX–cAlAX link, expanding the NleX–sleX connector road, upgrading ccleX, and pursuing new tollway ventures in hanoi and Jakarta. these initiatives aim to improve connectivity and reduce congestion while supporting economic growth.

mPtc also announced other leadership changes: luis reñon as President and General manager of NleX corp., Andrew Pan-

gilinan as President and General manager of mPt south, and marisa conde as officer-in-charge and interim chief finance officer.

santa maria rose to prominence as PAl president in 2019, where he led the flag carrier through the collapse in global air travel during coViD-19 and its subsequent restructuring to slash billions in debt. his crisis-management record is expected to help mPtc navigate leadership transition and deliver its infrastructure commitments on schedule.

mPtc is a wholly owned subsidiary of mPic, which holds interests in power (meralco), water (maynilad), healthcare (metro Pacific hospitals), logistics, and transport. mPic itself is part of first Pacific co. ltd., a hong Kong-based conglomerate led by Pangilinan. in indonesia, mPtc works with Pt indika energy tbk on tollway ventures.

“MPTC’s role is central to improving connectivity and supporting economic growth, not only in the Philippines but also across Southeast Asia,” santa maria said in remarks released by the company. n

PAUNAWA NG PAMPUBLIKONG PAGDINIG

iBiNiGAY ANG PAUNAWA NA ito na ang lupon ng mga superbisor ng county ng san Diego ay magsasagawa ng pampublikong pagdinig sa harmony Grove Village south Project gaya ng sumusunod: imPormAsYoN sA PAGDiNiG: Petsa: oktubre 1, 2025 oras: 9:00 a.m.

lokasyon: county Administration center, 1600 Pacific highway, room 310, san Diego, california 92101

APliKANte: rcs – harmony Partners, llG (mGA) NUmero NG ProYeKto/KAso: harmony Grove Village south, PDs2015-GPA-15-002, PDs2015-sP-15-002, PDs2015-reZ-15-003, PDs2015-tm-5600, PDs2015-mUP-15-008, PDsXXXXhlP-XXX, loG No. PDs2015-er-15-08-006; sch No. 2015081071

loKAsYoN: harmony Grove-elfin forest na subarea ng lugar na Plano ng Komunidad ng san Dieguito (APN 235-011-06 at 238-021-08, 09, 10)

PAGlAlArAN NG ProYeKto: Noong hulyo 25, 2018, inaprubahan ng county Board of supervisors (Board) ang mga karapatan para sa proyekto ng harmony Grove Village south at pinatunayan ang final environmental impact report (feir). Noong Pebrero 20, 2020, pinasiyahan ng korte ng paglilitis na ang eir ng Proyekto ay lumabag sa ceQA. Bilang resulta ng paglilitis, binago ng proyekto ang panukalang pagpapagaan ng Greenhouse gas nito at nagdagdag ng kondisyon ng abot-kayang pabahay. Walang ibang pagbabago sa dating pinamagatang proyekto. Ang proyekto ay nagmumungkahi ng isang pag-unlad ng halo-halong paggamit, kabilang ang 453 single family at multi-family residential na mga yunit at 5,000 talampakang kuwadrado ng komersyal/civic na gamit; 35 ektarya ng biological na bukas na espasyo; apat na ektarya ng pampubliko at pribadong parke; mga pampublikong daanan at isang site ng pasilidad ng wastewater treatment. Ang Komisyon sa Pagpaplano ay nagrekomenda na aprubahan ang proyekto.

KAtAYUAN NG KAPAliGirAN: Ulat sa epekto sa Kapaligiran

coNtAct NG KAWANi: Para sa dagdag na impormasyon tungkol sa proyekto, makipag-ugnayan kay Angelica truong sa (619) 323-8950, o Angelica.truong@sdcounty.ca.gov.

PAKiKilAhoK NG PUBliKo: Ang mga miyembro ng publiko ay maaaring lumahok sa pulong nang personal o sa pamamagitan ng teleconference alinsunod sa mga regulasyong ipinatupad sa oras ng pulong. Ang mga nagnanais na lumahok sa pulong at/o komento ay dapat bumisita sa website ng lupon ng mga superbisor sa: https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/cob/bosa.html#watch. Kung mayroon kang anumang tanong, makipag-ugnayan sa clerk ng lupon sa (619) 531-5434 o publiccomment@sdcounty.ca.gov.

tUloNG PArA sA mGA tAoNG mAY KAPANsANAN: Available ang mga agenda at talaan sa mga alternatibong format kapag hiniling. makipag-ugnayan sa sekretarya ng pagdinig sa (619) 517-4193 para sa mga tanong o para humiling ng tirahan na may kaugnayan sa kapansanan. Ang mga indibidwal na nangangailangan ng mga tagasalin ng sign language ay dapat makipag-ugnayan sa coordinator ng countywide ADA title ii sa (619) 531-4908. sa abot ng makatwirang posible, ang mga kahilingan para sa akomodasyon o tulong ay dapat na isumite nang hindi bababa sa 72 oras bago ang pagpupulong para maisagawa ang mga pagsasaayos. Ang isang lugar sa harap ng mga silid ng pagdinig ay maaaring italaga para sa mga indibidwal na nangangailangan ng paggamit ng wheelchair o iba pang naa-access na mga aparato.

tANDAAN: Para sa dagdag na impormasyon tungkol sa Availability ng Kawani para sa Ulat, mga Alituntunin ng tagapagsalita, at Pangkalahatang Pamamaraan sa Pagdinig, suriin ang impormasyon sa Pampublikong Pagdinig ng county ng san Diego na matatagpuan sa website ng lupon ng mga superbisor: https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/cob/bosa.html.

tANDAAN: Kung hahamunin mo ang aksyon na maaaring gawin sa panukalang ito sa korte, maaari kang limitado sa pagsusulong lamang ng mga isyung isinusulong mo o ng ibang tao sa pampublikong pagdinig sa itaas, o sa nakasulat na sulat na inihatid sa Katawan ng Pagdinig sa o bago ang pagdinig. maaaring limitahan o ipataw ng mga Panuntunan ng lupong Pagdinig ang mga kinakailangan sa pagsusumite ng naturang nakasulat

Philippine press group calls out Richard Gomez for tagging reporters’ queries as ‘media spin’

NUJP rebukes Richard Gomez for exposing reporters’ personal details in a Facebook post on the Matag-ob flood-control issue; images later removed

by AJPress

mANilA — the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), a media watchdog group, has criticized leyte 4th District rep. richard Gomez after he posted screenshots of interview requests that revealed reporters’ names and mobile numbers, while claiming the inquiries were part of a paid “media spin.” on Aug. 28, 2025, Gomez uploaded screenshots of text messages from journalists seeking his side on a damaged flood-control project in matagob, leyte. his caption read in part: “ Mahal din itong media spin… Alam na alam mong ginastusan… Gastos pa more, mga ungas.” (“This media spin is also expensive… You can clearly see money was spent… Spend more, you fools.”) the post displayed reporters’ personal details, and Gomez later disabled comments on it. the following day, Aug. 29, NUJP denounced Gomez’s post, stressing that asking for a subject’s side is standard reporting practice. the group warned that publishing journalists’ contact details exposed them to possible harassment and fraud and could implicate data-privacy concerns under the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (rA 10173).

on sept. 1, journalists covering the house of representatives issued a statement calling Gomez’s action “ baseless, reckless, and endangering ” to those whose numbers were shown. on sept. 2, Gomez apologized during plenary. he acknowledged that reporters were doing their jobs by asking for his comment and said the “sensitive information has been removed.”

Context of the issue the media inquiries came after matag-ob mayor Bernie tacoy claimed a flood-control

structure in his town had already been damaged by rains. Gomez countered that the project was still under construction and said a crucial component had not yet been installed. A house inquiry into flood-control projects is being prepared, and Deputy speaker ronaldo Puno noted that an ethics complaint can be brought against Gomez over his social media post.

Implications

• Press freedom: NUJP and the house press corps stressed that discrediting and exposing reporters for seeking comment undermines transparency and puts journalists at risk.

• Data privacy: The National Privacy commission (NPc) identifies names and phone numbers as personal information under rA 10173. Unauthorized disclosure may invite complaints and sanctions, although whether a violation occurred would require an NPc determination.

• Public accountability: The flap unfolded amid scrutiny of government flood-control spending, underscoring the importance of open and harassment-free reporting. n

scrrA is seeking bids for specialized

nance-of-Way equipment. solicitation documents may be obtained at https://metrolinktrains.com/doing-business. Bids are due at 2:00 P.m. (Pt) on 10/29/25. the contract to be awarded will be funded in part by grants under the U.s. Department of transportation, federal transit Administration. for further information, contact Dorothea cantero, sr. contract Administrator, at (213) 452-0302 or canteroD@scrra. net.

9/6/25 cNs-3961899# AsiAN JoUrNAl (l.A.)

FeAtures OPiniOn

Rebuilding trust through transparency: How lifestyle audits can transform public leadership

A critical inflection point for governance

In August 2025, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. issued a directive to expand the lifestyle audit initiative across all government officials in the Philippines. This move, which initially targeted the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), now seeks to examine the wealth and assets of officials across the entire bureaucracy. The initiative comes in response to public concerns about corruption linked to flood-control projects, which have been under investigation.

the directive signals an important step in strengthening transparency and accountability in the public sector. however, its success hinges not only on the mechanics of auditing but also on a broader shift in public values.

lifestyle audits, while essential tools for preventing corruption, must be understood as part of a broader cultural transformation that redefines how we view wealth and leadership in public service.

The values behind lifestyle audits

At their core, lifestyle audits are about more than just tracking financial discrepancies. they are a tool to reinforce values of integrity and accountability among public officials. By comparing an official’s declared assets to their lifestyle, these audits aim to uncover discrepancies that might suggest illegal

or inappropriate wealth accumulation. in this sense, lifestyle audits can serve as a reminder that public service should not be about personal enrichment, but rather about serving the common good. however, for these audits to be meaningful, they must be understood as part of a larger ethical conversation. rather than simply targeting wrongdoers, lifestyle audits should challenge societal norms that often equate wealth accumulationwith success in leadership. in this context, the audits offer a necessary opportunity to reshape the narrative around wealth in public life from one of materialism and excess to a focus on responsibility, modesty, and service.

Learning from global best practices several countries have integrated lifestyle audits

Undercurrent Trial by

social media

into their anti-corruption frameworks and have seen tangible results. these examples provide valuable lessons for the Philippines as it seeks to address corruption and shift the cultural understanding of public leadership. Singapore: Institutionalizing integrity singapore provides one of the most robust models of public sector integrity, where lifestyle audits and anti-corruption measures are deeply institutionalized. the corrupt Practices investigation Bureau (cPiB) is at the forefront of ensuring that corruption does not infiltrate the government. Unlike many countries where lifestyle audits are reactive, sin-

Commentary

“ISkOLAr ng bayan” is a badge of honor usually associated with a graduate from the University of the Philippines. the term signifies not just the intellectual formation that one has received from a premier university, but also the civic responsibility that comes with an education that is funded by taxpayer money. in the past few days, however, the term has taken on a more cynical meaning. through reddit threads, tiktok videos, and facebook/instagram posts, ordinary citizens have been calling out the extravagant lifestyles of different government officials and contractors who have been tied to anomalous flood control projects, claiming that their questionable wealth are from sham bids and backdoor deals. this includes the expensive university degrees their children obtained overseas, earning them the ironic label of “scholars ng bayan.” Not too long ago, these political children were admired (even lauded) for the designer bags, luxury cars, and expensive jewelry they shared on their social

Public Lives

randy davId

WhY do some people, particularly those who have become suddenly rich, flaunt their wealth? it’s a question one may ask after watching video clips where owners share glimpses of their opulent houses, their vehicles, jewelry, designer bags, shoes, and latest acquisitions. Aren’t they afraid of inviting scrutiny from customs and tax officials? Aren’t they worried about being robbed or victimized by kidnapfor-ransom gangs? in short, what are they thinking? the latest example of this phenomenon is, of course, the Discaya couple. shortly before the last elections, where the wife ran for Pasig city mayor, the Discayas treated some media people to a guided tour of their lavishly furnished

media accounts. many have made a career as influencers, posting from their private jets or their latest trips abroad. once in a while, they would thank their parents for funding their lavish lifestyles, with one even calling her father her “never-ending ATM.” today, many of those accounts have been locked as private and are now hidden from public view. What used to be aspirational content is now considered incriminating, as anonymous users dig through old feeds and resurface photos with a detailed price breakdown of every item they own. one reddit user even gave step-bystep instructions on how to retrieve deleted or archived posts, while another made a consolidated directory cataloguing all the gathered evidence/screenshots of each family’s “ill-gotten wealth.”

Before last week, many were quick to accept that some filipino families simply existed at that level of wealth, rarely pausing to ask where the money came from. the harder truth that needs to be acknowledged is how we, as a society, helped normalize and collectively enabled the lifestyles of these political families. filipinos have long gravitated toward celebrated displays of affluence. As the now-infamous Discaya features illustrate, media humanized

these personalities through stories that framed their privilege as aspirational, while giving them a veneer of relatability. social media followers strengthened their soft power through every like and share. Brands that collaborated with these individuals conferred status and credibility. Perhaps what is so important about this issue is not only the long-overdue scrutiny of these families, but also the uncomfortable recognition of our own complicity. Political theorist Jürgen habermas defined the public sphere as the realm where private citizens come together to debate matters of public concern. the past week is a good example of how social media platforms have effectively taken on that role. Despite being conducted in informal settings, this “trial by social media” could lead to real consequences for reputations, careers, and even government inquiries. for instance, public pressure has already reached the higher levels of government. President marcos recently ordered a lifestyle check of government officials from the Department of Public Works and highways and other agencies. When criticized about his own family’s wealth, the president said that he is more than willing to be subjected to a lifestyle check as

More than conspicuous consumption

multistory home and the capacious garage in which they parked forty high-end vehicles. listening to them narrate their rags-to-riches saga, what struck me—more than the expensive cars—was the casual tone in which they attributed their good fortune in the construction business to less than a decade of doing projects for the Department of Public Works and highways. they appeared genuinely surprised and pleased by how quickly they had moved from a life of misery and deprivation to one of ease and abundance. they spoke like anyone’s next-door neighbor, though a keen viewer would not fail to notice the lacoste t-shirts they wore as campaign outfits. i have encountered this kind of redemptive recounting and display of material possessions many times before on social

media. there’s the vlog of a young daughter of a family in Pampanga, whose wealth originally came from jueteng but is now invested in legitimate business pursuits. her show consists of snippets of the family’s daily routine— exercising, dressing up and putting on makeup, eating, dancing, supervising the househelp, and so on. one episode i chanced upon was a tour of their large house, highlighting the 24-hour airconditioning of every room, hallway, and corner. the sheer number of rooms was perplexing. i was left wondering why a small family that was not running a hotel or renting out rooms would need so many. this kind of content, and the way it is presented, has become so popular on social media that u PAGE A7

A frieND once asked me, “How does being more Filipino-centered make us more competitive? Other Asian countries produce opportunists and narcissists too—what’s the difference?

it’s a fair question. opportunism and ego—fertile ground for corruption—aren’t exclusive to any nation. What distinguishes countries like Japan, Korea, and Vietnam is not moral superiority, but cultural authorship. these nations didn’t rise by abandoning who they were. instead, they absorbed Western influence while exporting their own essence. Japan’s modernization during the meiji restoration was strategic, not imitative. reforms were filtered through Japanese values, guided by a mantra to equal and surpass the West. the charter oath of 1868 pledged to seek global knowledge to strengthen imperial rule—signaling openness, but with the intent to master and transcend. they didn’t just adopt modernity—they Japanized it. from minimalism

iN investigations here in the Philippines, there are almost always smoke and mirrors, fall guys and those protecting themselves, while the big fish, the masterminds themselves, are not being named.

it’s no different in tuesday’s hearings. the big fish are not being identified and yet they are the missing links in this circle of corruption. if the ongoing probe in the senate and the house of representatives does not identify them, this will be just another zarzuela.

Don’t get me wrong. the investigation against contractors and the district engineers (Des) is a step in the right direction, but those behind the system that enabled these contractors and Des to perpetuate this cycle of corruption are the missing links.

gapore’s approach is proactive. Public servants are expected to adhere to a strict code of conduct, with regular audits to ensure that personal wealth aligns with their declared assets. the cPiB also enforces a culture of transparency by ensuring that public officials’ wealth and lifestyle are open to scrutiny. this has been key in maintaining singapore’s reputation as one of the least corrupt nations in the world. in addition to audits, singapore promotes regular ethics training for government employees,

Why a Filipino-centered identity for our nation is a competitive advantage

rooted in Zen to anime steeped in shinto cosmology, Japan transformed global formats into uniquely Japanese expressions. Korea followed a similar path. Bts didn’t copy Western boy bands—they infused the format with Korean identity, activism, and language. even companies like samsung reflect Korean ideals of precision and innovation. Vietnam localized everything, merging french baguettes into bánh mì and blending catholicism with ancestral worship. their cities balance tech hubs with communal courtyards. it’s not imitation— it’s choreography. Wealth isn’t just GDP—it’s dignity, creativity, and cultural power. And that begins with remembering who we are. so, what does it mean to be filipino-centered in that context? it’s not nostalgia. it’s a strategic compass. it means building systems, stories, and spaces that reflect our cosmology, our values, our strengths. it’s rooted in kapwa, bayanihan, Bathala, the conviction seeded

The missing link: The masterminds at DPWH, Congress

the marcos administration must see through that and go after them. Who might they be? some of them are ranking officials of the Department of Public Works and highways (DPWh) and the lawmakers they are in cahoots with. they are the links between the lawmakers – who release the funds – and the Des and contractors who, in turn, implement the projects.

Follow the money trail if President marcos is serious about his investigation, he will look into the whole process and identify the brains behind this institutionalized corruption. he will see where the money trail begins and ends.

But can lawmakers really investigate their own? can this cycle of corruption in flood control projects really end?

on June 12, 1898, and the wisdom of our ancestors—not in borrowed metrics or aesthetics. it means telling our stories unapologetically, shaping our cities with soul, and forging our future from the inside out. the light we need doesn’t have to come from elsewhere; it can emanate from us. When that happens, we no longer stand in another nation’s shadow—we cast our own. Why does this matter for competitiveness? Because authenticity is a currency—and the world is buying. Japan exports design. Korea exports pop culture. Vietnam exports urban identity. these nations don’t dilute themselves to fit global molds— they amplify who they are, and the world responds. innovation thrives from within. When we stop trying to be “less filipino” to appear “more modern,” we unlock solutions rooted in our climate, our communities, and our lived realities. modernity isn’t a costume—it’s u PAGE A7

only time will tell. Against this backdrop, newly appointed DPWh secretary Vince Dizon’s purge of the controversial department he is now tasked to clean and fix is commendable. But he must not stop at resignations. those found liable must also be held to account. this should not be likened to the former monetary Board members of the Bangko sentral ng Pilipinas who were at the center of the unprecedented ghost employee scandal at the institution. they resigned and have not been slapped with any legal action by malacañang, at least as of this writing.

sec. Dizon and President marcos must make sure that those found guilty of wrongdoing will be charged in accordance with u PAGE A7 u PAGE A7

Why a Filipino-centered identity for our nation...

a conversation with our own innate genius. civic pride fuels productivity. When people feel seen, heard, and valued, they invest more— in their neighborhoods, their work, and their country. that’s not just emotional resonance— it’s economic momentum.

this change must begin in the classroom. A filipino-centered education is more than culturally affirming—it is student-centered, moving away from rote memorization and colonial indoctrination toward critical thinking, relevance, and agency. Paulo freire argued that education must be a practice of freedom, not domination. his idea of problem-posing education, where students co-create knowledge, resonates with indigenous filipino pedagogies, especially the cordillera’s Dap-ay, a communal learning circle. in the Dap-ay, the teacher is a “guide by the student’s side,” not a “sage on a stage.” learn-

ing is relational and grounded in shared humanity. When students see themselves reflected in the curriculum—not as subjects to be shaped, but as authors of meaning—they truly awaken. research in culturally responsive pedagogy (Gay, 2010; ladson-Billings, 1995) shows that students perform better when their identity is affirmed. filipino-centered education leads to deeper engagement, higher retention, and stronger civic participation—not just more humane, but more effective. Yet a rupture remains: our system still elevates non-filipinos—especially the United states—as the protagonists, authors, and models of our story. this perpetuates a colonial mindset and erases filipino authorship. When textbooks glorify George Washington while glossing over emilio Aguinaldo, we teach students to admire colonizers and doubt their own ancestors. that erasure is a form of cultural violence.

to reclaim our moral compass and rediscover our true North, we must restore filipino agency in our historical narratives and educational systems. only then can we become not just modern—but unmistakably and meaningfully our own. it won’t make us wealthy overnight, but it’s how we stop outsourcing our identity and start exporting our essence. that is true wealth, and the kind built to endure.

* * * 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.

*

* * eliseo Art Silva is a filipino artist based in Los Angeles and manila whose murals and paintings reclaim history, elevate diasporic narratives, and ignite civic dialogue. Best known for the f ilipino American m ural in LA and the Talang gabay gateway to filipinotown, Silva fuses myth, scholarship, and activism to restore f ilipino identity and authorship to the heart of national and global discourse.

More than conspicuous...

an analyst of today’s profileobsessed digital world will never run out of material to study. i recently watched a video posted by another young woman who, from her family name, appears to be connected to a congressman known as both a politician and contractor. While giving a guided tour of their house and its many entrances and exits, she casually referred to the family’s fleet of helicopters and explained why she personally favored one of them (for the comfort of its seats).

it’s easy to dismiss these videos as nothing more than crude platforms for bragging about possessions. But the fact that they attract millions of viewers proves they resonate with people’s deepest yearnings. i suspect that what is at work is more than just the ostentatious display of wealth that thorstein Veblen first noted in America at the dawn of the 20th century. What we may be seeing in these performances is revenge accumulation to compensate for past deprivation, a cathartic cleansing of memories of

scarcity. this originates inside the self but finds its ultimate validation in front of the camera. When thorstein Veblen published “the theory of the leisure class” in 1899, the book became an instant sensation. from it came many words we casually use today— “conspicuous consumption,” “ostentatious display of wealth,” “keeping up with the Joneses,” etc. since Veblen, consumption has ceased to be viewed as merely economic. it has become a form of communication, a way of signaling status. Veblen’s critique focused on the new affluence brought about by industrialization, but his sharpest observations were directed at the “wasteful consumerism” that afflicted the emerging American middle class. today, his thesis is validated even more in the consumption behavior and lifestyles of Asia’s new billionaires. the richest are in present-day china and india, but they are also found in southeast Asia —in the Philippines, indonesia, thailand, malaysia— and even in parts of Africa,

like Nigeria, where extreme disparities in wealth and power persist. Behind the explosion of sudden wealth of this kind is the seamless collaboration of corrupt politicians, insatiable businessmen, and dysfunctional bureaucracies. the magnitude of resources these new elites are able to unlock and mobilize through various schemes is mind-boggling. the wealth they siphon off comes from many sources: mineral deposits, public borrowings, the national budget, land conversions, and the meager earnings of ordinary wage workers. But beneath the big drama of syndicated public corruption and official investigations lies the small theater of sudden wealth and its private meanings. the public feasts on the former but quietly revels in the latter.

*

* * 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.

* * * public.lives@gmail.com

The missing link: The masterminds...

existing laws.

my sources are pointing to some DPWh undersecretaries who, they said, have gotten away all these years with these corrupt practices. these top DPWh officials have long been involved in this systemic corruption.

Another source said these brains at the DPWh are the ones assigning the projects to the regional directors, the Des, assistant district engineers and so on and so on.

it’s a tight circle for this cabal of DPWh officials and one of their favorite meeting venues is a hotel along roxas Boulevard. they are, of course, in cahoots with unscrupulous politicians and lawmakers in congress who, in turn, pave the way for the budget insertions so that the different flood control projects would get their funding – in billions of pesos, year in and year out.

one ranking DPWh official even worked as a city engineer in a city in metro manila. this was during the time when a prominent and popular political figure was mayor. this official rose from the ranks in the DPWh and, according to sources, has amassed wealth beyond the salary of a government official. the official loves luxury items – cars, accessories and

watches. A favorite timepiece brand is richard mille, which a quick search shows prices ranging from P4 million to P15 million. Authorities can look into the sAlNs of DPWh and do a lifestyle check. They are really the masterminds... so why are the most guilty and the brains of these schemes not being called to the hearings?” one source pointed out.

Just focusing on the contractors, my sources said, is just like the bloody drug war during the time of rody Duterte – only the users were punished. the masterminds responsible for flooding the streets with illegal drugs are still out there, doing business as usual.

“We really need to dismantle the cartel in DPWH and Congress. Jail the pushers, not just the users,” said the source. how will investigators determine the masterminds? they can find out from the Des and contractors themselves. some Des and contractors may even be encouraged to turn into whistleblowers or state witnesses. i heard that some of them are, in fact, willing to do just that.

ILBO on sept. 2, sec. Vince has already requested Justice sec-

Rebuilding trust through transparency...

this proactive and institutionalized approach to lifestyle audits and ethical leadership has enabled singapore to not only combat corruption but also foster a deep-seated culture of public accountability. the Philippines can learn from singapore’s model by integrating integrity as the cornerstone of public service, with lifestyle audits as part of a broader anti-corruption culture.

South Africa: Institutionalizing ethics in governance in south Africa, President cyril ramaphosa’s government has subjected over 11,000 public servants to lifestyle audits as part of its broader campaign against corruption. these audits have uncovered cases of financial misconduct but, more importantly, have underscored the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the public sector. in addition to financial audits, south Africa has embraced a broader effort to redefine the culture of public service by emphasizing integrity over material wealth. the government’s actions represent a shift towards ethical governanceand public responsibility.

Hong Kong: The role of transparency and technology in hong Kong, the independent commission Against corruption (icAc) has leveraged data analytics and computer forensics to conduct effective lifestyle audits. By analyzing financial transactions and identifying patterns that suggest corrupt practices, the icAc has uncovered significant cases of misconduct. the use of technology has made lifestyle audits more

well.

retary crispin remulla to issue an immigration lookout Bulletin order (ilBo) against several DPWh officials and contractors. the order, however, should be sweeping and must also include the masterminds, including ranking DPWh officials and lawmakers, too. the ongoing investigation must weed out the unscrupulous contractors from the legitimate ones and improve the system so that the good ones won’t be afraid to bid for government projects, moving forward. more importantly, the probe must determine who the brains are. excluding them from the probe will result in a repeat of this cycle of thievery when the dust settles and the headlines die down. the big fish are still out there. they must be so big by now that they have become owners of the lakes and other bodies of water – the very same water that overflows when the rains come.

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

* * * email: eyesgonzales@gmail.com. follow her on X @eyesgonzales. column archives at eyesWideopen on fB.

efficient and targeted, ensuring that resources are directed toward individuals and areas where corruption is most likely to occur. hong Kong’s experience shows the power of digital tools in reinforcing transparency while also emphasizing the need for a culture of integrity.

South Korea: Whistleblower protection and public participation south Korea’s Anti-corruption & civil rights commission (Acrc) has integrated whistleblower protection into its efforts, ensuring that those who report unethical behavior are shielded from retaliation. this policy encourages citizens to actively engage in the fight against corruption, reinforcing the idea that public service is a shared responsibility. the Acrc’s approach also includes digital platforms for reporting misconduct, making it easier for people to get involved in promoting accountability.

for the Philippines, adopting similar protections for whistleblowers could increase public confidence in the lifestyle audit process, ensuring that it is perceived as a transparent, inclusive effort to root out corruption. the Philippines also stands to benefit from digital tools that facilitate secure and confidential reporting.

The need for a cultural shift the core of the lifestyle audit initiative is not just about exposing wrongdoers. it is about challenging the cultural framework that often celebrates excess and material wealth. for far too long, extravagance has been seen as a

symbol of success and leadership. changing this narrative is key to fostering a culture of integrity within public institutions. the Philippines, like many other nations, has long been influenced by the idea that wealth equates to power and respect. lifestyle audits provide an opportunity to redefine success, not by the number of luxury cars or properties one owns, but by the quality of leadership and public service one provides. this shift will require a collective effort, not just from government officials, but from society at large.

A framework for ethical leadership President marcos’s directive to conduct lifestyle audits on all government officials represents a critical step in the fight against corruption. however, for this initiative to succeed in the long term, it must be supported by a broader ethical framework, one that emphasizes transparency, accountability, and the moral obligation to serve the public good. Drawing from successful global examples, the Philippines has an opportunity to reshape its governance model by reinforcing integrity, rejecting materialism, and embracing true leadership grounded in humility and service.

the success of these lifestyle audits will not be measured simply by the number of investigations or prosecutions they generate, but by the values they inspire. these values prioritize moral leadership, public trust, and the belief that public office is a sacred responsibility, not a path to personal wealth. (AJPress)

Trial by social media

While i am not a big fan of the indiscriminating nature of cancel culture, the past few days have felt like a satisfying form of comeuppance. in an era of selective justice and seeming impunity, these reddit threads are starting to feel like a legitimate way of pursuing accountability since formal mechanisms don’t always yield results. As one user noted, the hope is that this newfound determination to investigate and call out questionable practices will not be confined to flood-control contracts alone, but will extend to anomalous bids in health, education, and other public services. of course, this type of no-holds-

barred tribunal is not without risk.

While it can pierce impunity, it also blurs the line between accountability and mob justice. Whistleblowing on reddit, and social media in general, relies heavily on anonymous or pseudonymous accounts. While it offers protection for the whistleblower, it can just as easily serve as a breeding ground for misinformation and harmful conspiracy theories to flourish. And yet, we cannot dismiss the significant contributions it can make to advance public discourse. if the once seemingly invulnerable scions of political dynasties are now retreating from the spotlight, it means that those in power are feeling the weight of public scrutiny. Whether these viral posts and

message threads will lead to an actual investigation and systemic reform, or simply to more careful curation of what these families share publicly, remains to be seen.

But one thing is clear: more filipinos are refusing to stay silent. the ongoing “trial by social media” of these officials’ extravagant lifestyles may be messy, flawed, and less than ideal, but it has definitely made the issue quite impossible to ignore.

* * * 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.

* * * eleanor@shetalksasia.com

Mesmerizing voice of Joice Espinoza of Olongapo City

At Gerry’s restaurant, I was greeted by the golden voice of 18-year-old Joice Espinoza, dressed in a vibrant green outfit. The young singer instantly mesmerized me with her talent.

Alongside Ms. Cha Francisco Santos, I had the chance to ask Joice a few questions, which she answered with sincerity and warmth.

Born Shirleena Joice Espinoza on June 6, 2007, this Olongapo native has quickly emerged as one of today’s most promising young Filipino singers. She first rose to national attention as a daily winner on ABS-CBN’s It’s Showtime: Tawag Ng Tanghalan (Season 7, 2023) and later as a contender on GMA Network’s TiktoClock: Tanghalan ng Kampeon(2024).

Her breakthrough moment came on April 29, 2025, during TV5’s Eat Bulaga! segment “The Clone.” When co-host Ian Red called for song requests, Allan K invited Joice—then part of the studio audience—to perform. She delivered a heartfelt rendition of “Bakit Nga Ba Mahal Kita,” popularized by Gigi De Lana. The impromptu performance left both hosts and audience in awe.

Uploaded to her official Facebook page, the clip went viral with more than 4.5 million views and thousands of shares. Praise from fans and industry professionals poured in, cementing her reputation as a star on the rise.

Joice cites Ariana Grande for global inspiration and Gigi De Lana for local influence, drawing from their authenticity and stage presence. After her debut single Pangako Mo, she is set to release Hanggang Sa Muli, a poignant ballad about letting go, cherishing memories, and hoping for reunion. With the guidance of vocal coach Adonis Arcilla and talent manager John Rey Malto, Joice continues to refine her artistry. Beyond music, she is pursuing a psychology degree, driven by her own experiences with anxiety and stress.

“Mental health is finally being

acknowledged, and I want to use my voice and experiences to help others who are going through similar challenges,” she shared with a wide smile. ***

At the NAIA departure ramp, we commemorated the 42nd death anniversary of Ninoy Aquino with a wreath-laying ceremony and a message from Sen. Bam Aquino. Attendees included Cecilia Guidote-Alvarez of NAMSERV and EARTHSAVERS, Rebecca Quijano of Chino Roces Foundation, Volt Bohol of ATOM, Karl Patrick Suyat of Project Gunita, Kiko Dee of the Ninoy and Cory Aquino Foundation, Cristina Rodriguez of the Bantayog ng mga Bayani Foundation, Christopher Carreon of the Spirit of EDSA Foundation, Regalado Trota Jose Jr. of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, Atty. Richard Palpal-Latoc of the Human Rights Violations Victims’ Memorial Commission, and General Manager Ma. Lourdes SJ. Reyes of the Manila International Airport Authority. The invocation was led by Fr. Benigno Beltran, SVD. The event was followed by an

ATOM motorcade and a 10 a.m. mass at Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City. Later in the afternoon, ATOM members from 1983 to 2025 reunited in Quezon City, where I was delighted to see co-founder Reli German and actress Jackie Aquino, daughter of the late Butz Aquino. ***

The film Mamay: A Journey to Greatness, a biopic of Nunungan Mayor Marcos Mamay of Lanao del Norte, was a big winner at this year’s FAMAS Awards. The film earned the Presidential Award for Mayor Mamay, Producer of the Year (Mamay Productions), Best Supporting Actor for Jeric Raval, Best Cinematography for Gilbert Obispo, Best Production Design for Cyrus Khan, Best Original Theme Song (Hamon performed by Gerald Santos and composed by Vehnee Saturno), and Best Musical Score for Director Neil Buboy Tan.

“This victory is not just for me— it’s for the people of Lanao del Norte and for regional cinema as a whole. Our stories matter, and tonight proves they deserve to be seen and celebrated,” Mayor Mamay said at the ceremony held at Manila Hotel.

The movie was line-produced by Sheila Torres Lintan.

***

Congratulations as well to Vice Ganda, who won his first FAMAS Best Actor trophy. I recall his kindness when I once visited ABS-CBN’s It’s Showtime studio to interview choreographer and floor director Mel Feliciano for the Philippine Star

***

The U.S. Department of State’s Office of Art in Embassies (AIE) has partnered with the American Arts Conservancy (AAC) to expand the global reach of American art in cultural diplomacy. Together, AIE and AAC will support exhibitions in U.S. embassies and residences worldwide, develop educational programs, create artist exchanges, and build a permanent digital archive of featured works.

For more information, visit www. americanartsconservancy.org and art.state.gov.

***

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

*** rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com

COMMON problems among air travelers

More than 17.5 million Americans traveled by air during the Labor Day weekend. Worldwide, the average number of people flying is about 13.2 million a day, or around 4.8 billion a year. In the Philippines, during Holy Week, about 160,000 travel by air, around 138,000 on a regular day. An average of 2.85 million Americans fly in the USA each day.

Some usual problems for air travelers include: changes in barometric pressure, decreased oxygen tension, dehydration, circadian dysrhythmia, psychological stress, and effects of air turbulence.

Preserving flight comfort

Modern aircraft, including supersonics, maintain a cabin pressure that is equivalent to 5000 to 8000 feet above sea level to provide a comfortable environment for the people on board. At such an altitude, free air in the body cavities tends to expand by about 25% and may aggravate certain medical conditions. Most people with adequately treated chronic illnesses, like high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart conditions that are not severe, can safely tolerate flying, even international flights. However, those with anemia (low blood count), asthma, emphysema, or those already short of breath from other lung problems or heart failure may not be able to tolerate the high altitudes. It is always prudent to check with your physician if you have any concerns about flying

Airsickness

Some people are born with a vestibular-labyrinthine apparatus (inner ear structure that helps us balance ourselves) that is very sensitive to motion, more so than average. Stimulation of this apparatus in these people by acceleration and deceleration, or by upward, downward, or swinging movements, causes dizziness or nausea and/or vomiting, which is commonly known as motion sickness, sea-sickness, air-

Apl.de.Ap’s coconut farming initiative gains support from Kiko Pangilinan

by Jessica ann evangelista Inquirer.net

BLACK Eyed Peas member Apl.de.ap’s coconut tree planting advocacy, aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and climate resilience, has received the support of Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Sept. 3, Pangilinan shared that Apl.de.ap, whose real name is Allan Pineda, recently visited his Senate office to discuss agricultural projects including the “100 Million Coconut Trees for the Climate” initiative.

The program, in partnership with the Philippine Coconut Authority, Omtse Ventures and the Apl.de.ap Foundation International (APLFI), seeks to plant 100 million coconut trees nationwide.

According to Pangilinan, the project aims to strengthen the country’s coconut production and provide higher income opportunities for millions of farmers.

“Matapos nating ibahagi ang pahayag ni Apl.de.ap tungkol sa kahalagahan ng pagbabalik sa farming, inimbitahan natin si Apl at ang kanyang team sa Senado para pag-usapan ang mga konkretong hakbang tungo sa mas matatag na agrikultura,” Pangilinan wrote.

(After we shared Apl.de.ap’s statement on the importance of returning to farming, we invited him and his team to the Senate to discuss concrete steps toward stronger agriculture.)

The senator noted that the initiative’s target of planting 100 million coconut trees nationwide would boost production and raise incomes for millions of farmers.

Pangilinan, who previously chaired the Philippine Coconut Authority Board and now leads the Senate committee on agriculture, food, and agrarian reform, said he is fully supporting the effort.

“Kapag nagtutulungan ang iba’t ibang sektor, kayang magbunga ng pagbabago para sa ating magsasaka, kalikasan, at bansa,” he said.

(When different sectors work together, we can bring about change for our farmers, the environment and the country.)

Apl.de.ap, who grew up in Pampanga, also paid a visit to Sen. Risa Hontiveros, who likewise showed support for his coconut farming project.

Apl.de.ap, alongside his co-Black Eyed Peas members, staged their concert in Manila last month.

The Black Eyed Peas rose to fame for their hits

“Where Is the Love?,” “Bebot,” “I Gotta Feeling,” “Let’s Get It Started ” and “Boom Boom Pow,” among others.

Air travel medical tips

sickness, etc. Oral medications are available for travelers to minimize or prevent motion-, sea-, or air sickness.

To minimize air sickness

The night before the trip, have a quiet evening, and avoid alcohol and spicy foods, including the morning of the air travel. Wear loose and comfortable clothing for air travel. During flight, eat light and minimize drinking alcoholic beverages, avoid excessive coffee and tea, but ingest about a glass (8 oz) of water for every two hours of the trip to prevent dehydration and its side effects. If nausea occurs, recline your seat, close your eyes, try to relax, and keep your head motionless. If it persists, antiemetic (antinausea/vomiting) medication may be needed. Some flights have this drug available on board.

Biofeedback helps Yes, biofeedback helps relieve stress and many flight-related discomforts. While sitting back, relaxing your whole body, with your eyes closed, think and concentrate hard that you are on a tropical beach, enjoying the white sand and clear, sky blue waters. Breathe normally, nice and easy, punctuated by a deep sigh every now and then. Let your arms and legs, and the rest of your body, go limp. Meditate, daydream, think good and happy thoughts. This strategy has been found to be very effective, especially on long flights.

Young children cry on takeoff and landing

The changes in the altitude and barometric air pressure during take-off and landing cause temporary blockage of the eustachian tube (a small channel that connects the nasal passages and the middle ear), and this results in a build-up of pressure that leads to severe pains in the ear, in the head, and/or in the face (sinuses). To relieve the pressure (discomfort of blocked ears), one must swallow with the nose closed, or do frequent yawning during take-off and landing. Filling the mouth with air and blowing hard, with the mouth closed and the nose pinched (Valsalva Maneuver), may help “pop open” the blocked ears. Babies and young children should be made to suck, drink, or swallow liquid when the plane starts its

ascent or descent. For adults and older children, chewing gum or merely swallowing their saliva during take-off and landing will help.

Bloating sensation

The changes in cabin pressure increase the gas production in our guts. As the pressure falls, the air in the intestines expands, causing bloating and discomfort. Abstinence from alcohol, or drinking in moderation, and eating light, especially on long flights, can minimize or prevent problems during flights and make air travel more enjoyable.

Faucet water contamination

In the United States, most cities have safe potable water, but not in many countries around the world. But even in the USA, bottled water is preferred, and when in other countries, it is recommended to use bottled water for drinking and even for brushing teeth. E.coli is a common contaminant in faucet water in some countries.

History of collapsed lungs

People with a history of collapsed lungs (pneumothorax) more than once, and not operated on, are not allowed to fly because pneumothorax may recur. If this should happen, especially at high altitudes, the shortness of breath that follows the collapse of the lungs will be worse and aggravated to the point that the person might die of suffocation. Those with this condition should undergo a major but fairly simple operation to cut out the portion of the lung that is weak (with a very thin wall that balloons out like bubbles) and is leaking. Those whose pneumothorax has been corrected by surgery are allowed to fly, but not to pilot a plane.

Pregnant women flying It is safe for pregnant women to fly on commercial airlines. However, most airlines do not accept passengers who are more than 35 weeks pregnant for obvious safety reasons. Those concerned should check with their airline or immigration office in the country of destination about entry regulations.

Alcohol during flights Prudent, moderate consumption of alcohol is generally tolerated by most people on board. Alcohol, just

Guidance from the new passport law allowing reversion to

maiden surname for married women

AS part of its mandate to provide efficient and effective public services to Filipinos in its jurisdiction, the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles wishes to provide the following information based on the new Passport Law, Republic Act No. 11983, allowing reversion to maiden surname for married women currently using their husband’s surname.

Previously, a married woman who had previously adopted her husband’s surname could only revert to her maiden name in her Philippine passport if the husband has passed away, if the marriage tie was dissolved by virtue of an annulment, declaration of nullity of marriage, judicially-recognized foreign divorce under Article 26 of the Family Code, judicially-recognized divorce under Presiden-

tial Decree No. 1083, or through a court approved legal separation. Under the new Passport Law, reversion from the use of the married surname to the maiden surname is allowed through the submission of a notarized affidavit of explanation that includes a request for the reversion of maiden name in the Philippine passport or travel document and stating that the applicant has not hitherto availed of the reversion. The decree of divorce dissolving the marriage is also required on top of the following documentary requirements:

1. Current Philippine passport;

2. Passport application form;

3. Original and copy of the PSA Certificate of Marriage or PSA Report of Marriage; 4. Original and copy of applicant’s

PSA Certificate of Live Birth or PSA Report of Birth; 5. Proof of Philippine citizenship, such as a permanent resident card or dual citizenship certificates; and

6. A valid, government issued ID reflecting her maiden name (if a valid U.S. permanent resident card under the applicant’s maiden name is presented as proof of Philippine citizenship, no other valid ID is required).

To book a passport appointment, visit https://www.passport.gov.ph. If you have questions on this topic, please email us losangeles.pcg@dfa.gov.ph. Visit our website, losangelespcg.org, and follow @PHLinLA on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) to be updated on the latest news about the Consulate General and its services.

The duty to provide complete and accurate financial disclosure in a California divorce

COUPLES that are going through the divorce process in California should understand that the Family Code and the Family Courts requires that they provide complete and accurate disclosure to the other spouse. The financial disclosures are taken seriously by the Courts and failure to disclose could have serious consequences for the non-disclosing party in a divorce case. The parties are required to prepare and exchange preliminary declaration of disclosure which includes and fl-142 schedule of assets and debts, fl-150 income and expense declaration, 2 years tax return, a statement of all material facts and information regarding the valuation of all assets that are community property or in which the community has an interest, a statement of all material facts and information regarding obligations for which the community is liable, and an accurate and complete written disclosure of any investment opportunity, business opportunity, or other income-producing opportunity presented since the date of separation that results from any investment, significant business, or other income-producing opportunity from the date of marriage to the date of separation. If the case does not settle and proceeds to trial, the parties would have to exchange final declaration of disclosure which consists of the above information with the characterization of the assets and debts whether community or separate and the valuation of those items.

Family Code Section 2100 states that “[a] full and accurate disclosure of all assets and liabilities in which one or both parties have or may have an interest must be made in the early stages of a proceeding for dissolution of marriage or legal separation of the parties.” This disclosure must be made regardless of the characterization of the assets

and liabilities as community or separate property.

Family Code Section 1100 defines disclosure as “the act of providing information to the other party or to the court.” Disclosure can be made in a variety of ways, including through the exchange of financial documents, such as tax returns and bank statements, or through written declarations.

Family Code Section 721 states that “[e]ach party to a proceeding for dissolution of marriage or legal separation has a duty to make full and accurate disclosure of all financial information and material facts.”

This duty includes disclosing information about all assets and liabilities, as well as information about income and expenses.

The duty of disclosure is important for several reasons.

First, it allows each spouse to have a full understanding of the marital estate before they enter into negotiations, settlement, or go to trial. This helps to ensure that the division of property and debts is fair and equitable.

Second, the duty of disclosure helps to reduce the likelihood of fraud and concealment of assets. If a spouse fails to disclose all of their assets or liabilities, the other spouse may be able to set aside the divorce judgment.

Finally, the duty of disclosure helps to promote the public policy of California, which favors the speedy and efficient resolution of divorce cases.

If a spouse fails to comply with their duty of disclosure, they may face a number of penalties. The court may order the spouse to pay the other spouse’s attorney’s fees and costs. The court may also order the spouse to disclose the hidden assets or liabilities and award the non-disclosed asset to the other spouse. In some cases, the court may even set aside the divorce judgment.

The best way to comply with the duty of disclosure is to be honest and forthright with your spouse and with the court. Gather all of your financial documents and review them carefully. If you have any questions about what to disclose, consult with an experienced divorce attorney.

Here are some specific tips for complying with the duty of dis-

closure:

1. Disclose all assets and liabilities, regardless of the characterization as community or separate property.

2. Disclose all income and expenses, including income from employment, investments, and businesses.

3. Disclose all debts, including credit card debt, student loans, and mortgages.

4. Disclose all gifts and inheritances received during the marriage.

5. Disclose all business interests, including partnerships, corporations, and limited liability companies.

6. Disclose all information about any income-producing opportunities that arose after the date of separation but that resulted from any investment made during the marriage.

If your divorce entails significant assets such as a business interests, real estate holdings, retirement plans, inheritance, it is important to seek the guidance of an experienced family law attorney to help you navigate through your case.

*

Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice.  The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information.  This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed.  The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you.  This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APC.  This article is not a solicitation.

* * *

Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. He is founder and Managing Partner of LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APC located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@ kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com. (Advertising Supplement)

KAPAMPANGAN CARDINAL TO LEAD VIRGEN DE LOS REMEDIOS RITES

Kabalens in Southern California celebrate the Virgen de los Remedios 69th Canonical Coronation Anniversary at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, on Sunday, September 14, 2025.

This year’s celebration consists of Pilgrimage of Hope (the Cathedral as designated place of prayer for Jubilee 2025), Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross and Virgen de los Remedios Canonical Coronation Anniversary. The procession will start at exactly three o’clock in the afternoon from the North Plaza (Freeway 101 side) and participants are requested to

come in their traditional national costumes (if able) or wear red as it is the feast of the Holy Cross. Ladies and children may bring floral bouquets to be presented to our Lady after Mass at the Cathedral Plaza.

The Mass presider will be His Eminence Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David, the second Kapampangan to be elevated to the College of Cardinals, after the first Filipino Cardinal Rufino Jiao Santos, who are both from Guagua, Pampanga.

Three auxiliary bishops Alex Aclan, Mathew Elshoff and Marc Trudeau together with Filipino priests from the Arch-

diocese of Los Angeles will concelebrate. Music will be provided by the 50 members of St. Nicholas Parish Choir under the direction of Dr. Nove Deypalan and the seminarians from St. John Seminary will assist at Mass. During these times of difficulties and global conflicts, let us pray together to Mary, our Mother and hope for peace.\ Livestream coverage will be available at: https://www.youtube.com/live/hW7p-Vo0ap8 or https://www.olacathedral.org/ events/vdlr-mass (Philippine Time will be at 6: 00 AM, Monday, September 15, 2025).

Common Artificial Sweeteners Linked to Faster Cognitive Decline, Study Finds

A new study links artificial sweeteners like aspartame and saccharin to faster cognitive decline, though causation isn’t proven.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A

major study published this week in Neurology suggests that frequent consumption of popular low- and no-calorie sweeteners may be linked to faster cognitive decline, raising new concerns about their long-term impact on brain health.

Researchers in Brazil tracked 12,772 adults with an average age of 52 over eight years, examining intake of seven sweeteners: aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame K, erythritol, sorbitol, xylitol, and tagatose. Participants’ memory and cognitive performance were tested regularly.

Findings showed that those consuming the highest lev-

Experts urge moderation.

els of sweeteners (around 191 milligrams a day, roughly one can of diet soda) experienced 62% faster cognitive decline than those in the lowest group, equal to about 1.6 extra years of brain aging. Even moderate consumers showed a 35% faster decline, or about 1.3 years of aging. The effect was most pronounced in adults under 60 and those with diabetes. Notably, all tested sweeteners except tagatose, a natural sugar substitute, were associated with decline.

Researchers cautioned that the study is observational and cannot prove that artificial sweeteners directly cause cognitive decline. The data relied on self-reported diet recall, and the biological mechanism remains unclear. Still, the large sample size and consistent patterns suggest a potential public health concern. Artificial sweeteners are widely found in diet sodas, flavored waters, energy drinks, yogurts, and sugar-free snacks. While approved as safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, past studies have also linked them to cardiovascular disease and metabolic issues. Experts advise moderation rather than elimination, recommending natural alternatives such as stevia or monk fruit, alongside a diet rich in whole foods, exercise, and good sleep for long-term brain health.

Department of Public Social Services helps L.A. County residents access critical support when needed

As one of 58 county social services agencies in California, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) has an ongoing commitment to highlighting its assistance programs to residents who may not be aware of available services or how to apply for them.

DPSS provides eligible L.A. County residents help with food, healthcare, cash aid, employment support, and in-home care for the elderly, blind, and individuals with disabilities. The depart-

ment utilizes digital platforms such as the weekly Essential DPSS resource newsletter, social media accounts, and hundreds of poster ads donated by LA Metro, to promote its services and methods for submitting applications. Outreach materials are available in multiple languages to serve the County’s diverse communities and include direct links to dedicated websites and video guides with step-by-step instructions on how to apply for benefits. The department also dissem-

inates critical information about local job fairs and other free community resources to help improve the quality of life for L.A. County residents. DPSS encourages all L.A. County residents to share this information to ensure that those most in need are informed, supported, and empowered. To stay informed, visit the DPSS website or follow the department on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube.

Air travel medical tips...

like smoking, increases body fatigue, hypoxia (lowering the oxygen level in our blood), and dehydration. Fatigue and hypoxia, which naturally occur during long flights, explain why some people “do not feel well” following air travel. Alcohol and/or smoking aggravate these two conditions and the severity of circadian dysrhythmia (jet lag).

Welcome aboard, and enjoy your flight. Please fasten your seatbelt.

Nepo baby? Denise Laurel not resting on family laurels to make it big

by hannah mallorca Inquirer.net

DENISE Laurel is aware that being born into the esteemed Laurel clan has its pros and cons. But she wanted to break free from her family background and do things her own way, and that includes not entering politics.

With a clan that established itself in politics and the entertainment industry, Denise is proud of her heritage but at the same time determined to prove that she is no “nepo baby,” a term that refers to the scion of a famous or powerful person who achieves success and fame in a similar field due to their family connections and the opportunities that provides.

That may be hard to do, being the great granddaughter of former President Jose P. Laurel, granddaughter of vice president Salvador “Doy” Laurel and his wife, philanthropist and artist Celia Diaz-Laurel, and former House speaker Jose Bayani “Pepito” Hidalgo Laurel Jr., among other government officials.

She is also the niece of the late theater actor-singer Cocoy Laurel, as well as the cousin of actor Franco Laurel, singer Nicole Laurel Asensio, and fashion designer Rajo Laurel.

But Denise seemed to be fairing quite well in her chosen field, albeit shy whenever the topic of her family crops up.

“I always get shy!” the singer-actress said when asked about her family connections to high places in an interview with broadcast journalist Karen Davila.

Despite her family’s political background, Denise declared that she won’t enter politics at all, reiterating that celebrities planning to become politicians should “educate themselves” first.

“I don’t dabble in politics at all.

You won’t hear anything from me. I just feel that artistas [who] didn’t go to school or didn’t educate themselves on the government and laws should not be running,” she said.

How are they going to help the country if they don’t know even just the basis of the groundwork? The love to help the people will always be there. But if you really, truly love your country and do something good for it, educate yourself first,” she continued.

Working harder

Denise said being surrounded by a family of actors and politicians

is “inspiring” for her, at the same time, made her more grounded, seeing its “pros and cons” while growing up. “Growing up as a Laurel is inspiring; it does have its pros and cons. I look at my family, and it gives me so much honor and pride, and it also makes me work harder.” As a result, the actress said she had to “work harder” to prove her worth, especially when she caught the acting bug. She started in ABS-CBN when she was 8 years old as member of Star Magic, but her parents were not so happy” about it.

“I was very adamant about being independent. I wanted to earn it. So I would commute to ABS (by herself),” she said when she started on TV, proudly saying she was able to do it without an assistant. Her parents eventually capitulated, but with a strict reminder to not to neglect her studies, and to work diligently and with discipline. “You really have to, i Guess, bring honor to the family. You have to keep yourself in check at all times,” she said. I had to work harder than most people my age. Because people didn’t think I deserved to be there, or I was there because of a relation, but I really was in it alone. In my family, we really practiced hard work and not resting on our laurels. Pun intended,” she said.

Denise also pointed out that she wanted to make sure that every opportunity was earned in her own efforts.

Every line that I got, every part that I got, every position I was in, every opportunity that I was given. I really wanted to show my family that I can do this on my own. Conwise, it was also funny because I would go out, I’m related to everybody, so I can’t mess up,” she said.

On Papa Doy Denise also recalled her close relationship with Doy during the interview, saying she never felt that he was the vice president of the country. She added that they both share a love for chocolate.

For me, I never felt that. He was just my Papa Doy that would sneak little chocolates under the table for me kasi parehas kaming mahilig sa tsokolate (because we both love chocolates). So, we live in the same house. Growing up, we’re very close. He was always present. He would drop everything for us,” she said. Notable for her roles in “Annaliza” and “Midnight Phantom,” Denise is a cast member of the drama “Prinsesa ng City Jail” and a host on the morning show “Unang Hirit.” She is also a regular host at multiple K-pop fan meetings and concerts held in the country.

Lav Diaz’s ‘Magellan’ is PH entry for Best International Feature Film at 2025 Oscars

by hannah mallorca Inquirer.net

LAV Diaz’s “Magellan” is sailing to the Oscars, as it was announced as the Philippines’ official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards.

The announcement was made at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Philippine Film Industry Month (PFIM) by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) on Monday, Sept. 1, at the Edsa Shangri-La Mall.

In a brief speech, Diaz admitted that while bringing the historical film to life was “difficult,” it was the its message of understanding one’s past that became a poignant reminder to him. 1521 pa [nagsimula] ang paggawa ng pelikula… ang hirap ipaliwanag kung paano namin natapos. Ang hirap din ng ‘Magellan,’ napakahirap. Muntik pa akong mamatay,” he said. “Nand’un ang kamalayan para [magpursige] kang matapos, nand’un ang vision, sa’kin ang ‘Magellan’ is [a reminder na] balikan ang nakaraan para makahakbang ang ating bayan.

(The creation of the film started as early as 1521. It’s hard to explain how we finished the film. “Magellan” was hard to do. I almost died. Yet it is the reminder that pushed me to finish it. The vision is there. For me, “Magellan” is a reminder to remember our past for our country to move forward.)

Meanwhile, FDCP chair Jose Javier Reyes admitted that with

the bounty of films vying to be the Philippines’ official submission for the Best International Feature Film category, they were presented with a “good problem.” But, it was the “meaningful voice of “Magellan” that made it rise above the rest.

“It’s a really good problem if you have such a difficult time deciding which film you’re going to sell. But it was decided — and it is Lav Diaz’s ‘Magellan.’ For the very simple reason, I just want to reiterate what Lav said, you cannot find a direction for the future unless you understand your past,” he said. You cannot understand what is happening in the present without having the context of our history. What better choice than to give a tribute to a film that is supposedly, allegedly, a man who discovered the Philippines?” continued Reyes.

In support of Diaz’s Oscars campaign, the FDCP announced that it would grant him and his team P1 million through the government-led Oscars Assistance Program.

Other films in contention for the Philippines’ official entry are Antoinette Jadaone’s “Sunshine,” Zig Dulay’s “Green Bones,” Cathy Garcia Sampana’s “Hello, Love, Again,” Baby Ruth Villarama’s “Food Delivery,” Petersen Vargas’ “Some Nights I Feel Like Walking,” and King Palisoc’s “Song of the Fireflies.”

‘Masalimuot’

In a separate interview before the announcement, the FDCP chair admitted that the selection

process is taxing since it needs to be “veted” by the Academy from the members of the screening committee who will determine the national entry, all the way down to the entries which will be assessed.

Reyes also clarified that the selection was spearheaded by the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP), while his role as the FDCP chair is to support the agency. He also pointed out that the selection committee is composed of “reputable and credible” directors, writers, and an editor, although he didn’t identify who they were out of confidentiality.

“It’s not enough that you have an aesthetically a good movie. You must be able to mount a campaign because the competition is going to be tight the moment mapipili ang pelikula mo (your film will be chosen),” he said. May ilang pelikula na inaakala namin na dapat i-assess pero hindi sinubmit ng mga producer. May ilang pelikula na sana sinubmit pero nakita namin ang priority ng producer kung ano isusubmit nila and

Lovi Poe is pregnant

by camille santiago Philstar.com

LOVI Poe is stepping into her motherhood era, and she's doing it in style.

The actress just revealed on Monday, Sept. 1, that she and her husband, Monty Benclowe, are expecting their first baby.

In a stunning photoshoot with Bench Body, Poe proudly showed off her baby bump, with the brand writing, "This is what it means to truly Love Your Body—inside and out."

The comments section of the post quickly filled with heartfelt congratulations from fellow stars like Rabiya Mateo, Jessy Mendiola, Samantha Bernardo, and Max Collins. Kris Bernal, meanwhile, shared a sweet message, saying she "had a feeling" the actress was pregnant. "I'm so happy for you!! Congratulations," Bernal wrote. "Becoming a mom is such a beautiful, life-changing journey, and I know you're going to be an amazing one!! Poe and Benclowe started dating in 2019. She announced their engagement by sharing a video of herself on Instagram where she flaunted her engagement ring in front of a setting sun at a beach. She captioned her post, "A couple of years ago, there were two coffees, one sunrise, and a ring." We’ve shared and celebrated this moment quietly with our family and closest friends, so we’re now more than happy to share this sweet life update

LOS ANGELES

Joel Torre: Artistry, faith, and life beyond showbiz

success

by AJPress

JOEL Torre has long been celebrated as one of Philippine cinema’s most enduring actors. For more than four decades, his work in films such as Oro, Plata, Mata, Karnal, José Rizal, and On the Job has established him as a master of craft and authenticity. Known for his discipline and artistry, Torre built a career defined not by shortcuts but by respect for the role and the story.

Beyond showbiz, Torre grounds his life in values: putting God first, keeping family close, and living simply despite fame and fortune. Fame, he often notes, is fleeting; what lasts is faith, which gives direction when everything else changes.

From spotlight to smoke and sizzle

In 2003, Torre and his wife, Cristy, opened a small take-out counter in Quezon City selling Bacolod-style chicken inasal. They called it JT’s Manukan Grille. At the time, Torre was still immersed in acting, but the restaurant was born from two impulses: a love for Bacolod heritage and the foresight to prepare a livelihood that could endure beyond the shifting tides of fame.

Two decades later, JT’s has expanded to more than 40 branches nationwide, with international outlets in Singapore and Dubai. He built JT’s with the wisdom that applause fades, but prudence and steady growth are the foundations of anything meant to last.

A simple man at heart

Despite decades in the limelight, Torre has remained refreshingly down-to-earth. Raised in Bacolod, he has always preferred the quiet rhythm of family meals, community life, and meaningful

conversations over the trappings of celebrity. Customers at JT’s are often surprised to see him casually chatting with staff or checking the grill. There are no entourages or grand gestures, just Joel Torre, hands-on and approachable. For him, simplicity is not the absence of success but its truest measure. Faith as compass Torre often emphasizes the importance of putting God first. Faith, he says, has been his compass, keeping him grounded through fame, guiding his choices in business, and reminding him that success is stewardship, not ownership. A life centered on God, he believes, points beyond selfinterest and fleeting recognition.

Family as strength

At the core of Torre’s story is family. With Cristy, he raised two children, Mara and Fierrro, while building the restaurant brand.

For Torre, the real measure of achievement is not in trophies or revenue, but in being able to share what you have built with the people you love.

Craft and consistency

As an actor, Torre prepared meticulously for every role, regardless of size. He brings the same devotion to JT’s, where recipes are standardized, training is emphasized, and quality checks are non-negotiable. Discipline, for him, is the quiet force behind longevity, whether in film, in food, or in any pursuit that demands excellence.

Authenticity above all

In his acting career, Torre gravitated toward roles with truth and depth. In business, he resisted fads and anchored JT’s in authentic Bacolod chicken inasal.

For him, people respond to what is genuine, whether it is a character

brought to life on screen or a dish served at the table.

Storytelling beyond the screen

Film is storytelling, and Torre believes food is storytelling too.

Each JT’s branch tells the story of Bacolod’s flavors, culture, and hospitality. Overseas, JT’s has become a taste of home for Filipinos missing their roots. Whether through art or enterprise, Torre understands that stories connect us and give meaning to what we create.

Partnership as ensemble cast

Just as no film is carried by one actor alone, Torre runs JT’s with his wife and employees as true partners. Cristy manages operations with quiet steadiness, balancing Torre’s role as brand ambassador and visionary. Around them, a dedicated team brings the brand to life each day in the kitchens and dining areas.

This shared effort has been central to JT’s growth, showing that success is never a solo act but always a collective one.

Growth without losing simplicity In cinema, reinvention keeps actors relevant. Torre did the same in business, starting with a small stall, growing into a national chain, and then going global. Yet through all the expansion, he never lost his simple way of life. For him, growth is not about abandoning who you are but carrying your values into new roles and new stages.

The lasting role Joel Torre shows that artistry, faith, family, and entrepreneurship can come together in a meaningful way. His devotion to craft and authenticity made him a great actor, and those same values built JT’s Manukan Grille into a trusted brand.

The Rise of Leylah Fernandez: how a fighter’s spirit built a global tennis star

by AJPress

NEW YORK — Four summers

ago on Arthur Ashe Stadium, a 19-year-old lefty from Montreal threaded backhands through the noise of the U.S. Open and introduced herself to the world. Today, at 22, Leylah Fernandez has returned not as a fleeting surprise but as a force. Fresh off her first WTA 500 title at the Washington D.C. Open, she came to Flushing Meadows with momentum, reaching the third round in singles before falling to defending champion and world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, 6–3, 7–6(2).

A game built on first steps and first strikes Fernandez is known for her court intelligence, early contact on the ball, and precise backhands. Standing 5’6” (1.68 m) and training in Miami, Florida, she combines positioning, anticipation, and a willingness to absorb pace and redirect it. She plays left-handed with a two-handed backhand, a style that has helped her break through at the highest level despite her average height. Over the past four years, Fernandez has honed shot tolerance and tactical awareness, helping her remain in the top 30 of the WTA rankings, with a career-high singles ranking of No. 13.

From rejection to resilience: how her tennis journey began At age 7, Fernandez was dropped from Quebec’s provincial program for being “too small” and insufficiently athlet-

ic. Her father Jorge, a former Ecuadorian soccer player, took over her coaching, combining self-taught techniques with soccer-style discipline. Her mother, Irene Exevea, a Filipino-Canadian, worked abroad to support her training. This upbringing instilled in Fernandez the mental toughness that defines her game. She broke through as a junior,

Breakthrough

‘Love the Philippines’ campaign continues to promote destinations in Los Angeles

The Philippine Department of Tourism and the Consulate General in Los Angeles continue their “Love the Philippines” campaign with a bus wrap promotion and networking event, unveiling new tour packages, a charity golf tournament, and the 2026 VIP Tour.

by donnabelle gatdula-arevalo

HOLLYWOOD, California –

The Philippines is intensifying efforts to attract visitors from the United States as tourism officials in Los Angeles unveiled new programs and promotions highlighting the country’s diverse destinations and cultural appeal.

Central to this push was a networking event that launched the “Love the Philippines” Bus Wrap Advertisement, a joint initiative of the Philippine Department of Tourism (PDOT) and the Philippine Consulate General of Los Angeles (PCGLA). The campaign, which ran through Hollywood, The Grove, and Santa Monica Beach sought to raise visibility and inspire both US-based tourists and Filipino Americans to rediscover the Philippines.

Tourism as an economic life-

line

PDOT

Attaché Gerard Panga emphasized that the United States remains one of the Philippines’ strongest markets for both tourism and overseas remittances. In 2024, the U.S. accounted for 40.6 percent of global OFW remittances, followed by Singapore (7 percent) and Saudi Arabia (6 percent).

“The Philippines is the leading destination for Americans going to Southeast Asia because of the strong presence of our overseas Filipino community, 4.4 million Filipinos,” Panga said. “Every visitor you bring to the Philippines is not just a tourist but a valued economic partner, helping generate jobs and livelihood opportunities back home.”

Tourism currently supports more than 6 million jobs and contributes about $13 billion in visitor spending annually. Panga urged Filipino Americans to use their strong online presence, with 400 million text messages sent daily and a global lead in mobile internet use and online video consumption, to promote Philippine tourism positively rather than spread “fake news,

toxic politics, and distorted biases.”

Special packages and promotions

Several agencies also presented packages tailored for U.S. travelers:

• GTT International/E-World Tours – golf-centered travel itineraries

• Skybird Travel/Sky Vacations – “Discover the Unexpected” product

• Mango Tours – customized Philippine travel bundles

Sacred Heart Catholic Church’s Fr. Albert Avenido added that the Philippines is also positioning itself as a pilgrimage destination. Consulate networking event and golf-for-a-cause

The tourism networking event, held at Dave & Buster’s in Hollywood, gathered consular officials, community leaders, travel agency representatives, and winners of the Miss and Mister Philippines USA 2025 pageant.

During the event, Consul General Adelio Cruz announced the 2025 Congen Cup, an invitational golf-for-a-cause tournament set for October 6, 2025, at the Los Coyotes Club in Buena Park. Co-sponsored by PCGLA and Love to Serve, Inc. (LTSI),

the event will feature 144 golfers, awarding ceremonies, dinner, raffles, and a Hole-in-One cash prize to be shared between the winner and LTSI. Proceeds will benefit:

• ASEAN Women’s Circle of Los Angeles (Myanmar earthquake relief)

• GRACES in the Philippines (assistance to abandoned and needy seniors)

• LTSI’s program donating computers to underprivileged students

• Basilica San Pedro Bautista in Quezon City

Dum-

Bohol, and

The consulate targets at least 250 participants from Los Angeles alone, with Philippine Airlines offering discounted fares.

“Los Angeles has the largest number of Filipino Americans under our jurisdiction, about 1.4 million. We need your support, especially the young ones and the young once,” Cruz said. “Encourage your friends to visit, reconnect with our culture, and explore the beauty of the Philippines.”

Building a Brighter Future: The Story of Balud Enterprise for Sustainable Transformation and Founder Leo Abelita

Growing up in Balud, a remote town in Masbate, Philippines, Leo Abelita knew what it meant to live without the most basic necessities. His childhood unfolded in a community with no electricity, no paved roads, and little connection to the outside world. Out of these hardships grew resilience, determination, and a vision for transformation that would later shape his life’s work.

From Balud to Manila: A Journey of Grit Defying the odds, Abelita pursued higher education in Manila. Together with his brothers, he studied dentistry while adjusting to life far from home. Living independently in an unfamiliar city tested his perseverance but also built the confidence to push beyond the limits of his small hometown. This transition—from rural village to dental school in the capital—became the first of many milestones where he turned obstacles into opportunities.

A New Beginning in the United States

Like many Filipinos seeking a better future, Abelita migrated to the United States. Starting over in a new country meant learning, adapting, and rebuilding from scratch. He worked tirelessly to establish his career while holding fast to the lessons of Balud. Even as he built a new life in America, the struggles of his hometown remained close to his heart.

Founding B.E.S.T.

Motivated by a deep desire to give back, Abelita founded Balud Enterprise for Sustainable Transformation (B.E.S.T.), a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting his hometown. B.E.S.T. promotes sustainable solutions in education, infrastructure, and livelihood programs, aiming to break the cycle of poverty and empower the community. For Abelita, sustainability is not a buzzword but a commitment— ensuring that development is more than a temporary fix, but a foundation for future generations. His vision centers on inclusivity: every child should have access to education, every family to livelihood opportunities, and every community to the infrastructure needed to thrive.

A Family of Passion and Purpose Beyond his professional and

philanthropic work, Dr. Abelita is a devoted husband and father. Together with his wife, he has raised a family of four—one daughter and three sons—who have followed paths in modeling and beauty pageants, continuing a legacy of creativity and visibility. Abelita himself once modeled, an experience that enriched his appreciation for art, culture, and representation. He has also reconnected his children with his roots, bringing them to Balud to see where his journey began. His ties to pageantry extended further when he collaborated with Miss Philippines USA, encouraging titleholders to visit Balud and support B.E.S.T.’s projects. These efforts instilled in the younger generation—including his own children—the values of service, heritage, and pride. Giving Back, Building Forward Abelita’s story is one of personal triumph intertwined with community transformation. Through B.E.S.T., he continues to bridge the distance between his humble beginnings and his vision for a sustainable, thriving Balud.

Reflecting on his journey in an interview on Chat with Mic, he recalled:

“When I was young, I studied under the light of a kerosene lamp. Now, I want to make sure the children of Balud don’t have to go through the same struggles. They deserve better—and together, we can build it.”

A Legacy in the Making What sets Abelita apart is not only the scope of B.E.S.T.’s programs but the heart behind them. His initiatives are rooted in memory, compassion, and a determination to ensure no child in Balud is left behind.

From the dirt roads of Masbate to opportunities in America, Abelita’s journey proves that resilience can carry a person across oceans, and compassion can carry a community into the future. Through B.E.S.T., he has transformed hardship into hope— turning his personal story into Balud’s collective vision.

Leo Abelita’s life is not just his own—it is the story of Balud, of children who dream beyond their circumstances, and of communities waiting for someone to believe in their potential.

Angelique Kerber, Elina Svitolina, and Aryna Sabalenka to reach the final, cementing her status as one of the sport’s brightest young stars. Though Emma Raducanu ultimately won, Fernandez left a mark with her grit and poise, symbolized by her words on resilience during a post-match speech.

Recent career and 2025 highlights Fernandez now has four career singles titles: Monterrey 2021, Monterrey 2022, Hong Kong 2023, and the 2025 Washington D.C. Open WTA 500 title, where she defeated Anna Kalinskaya 6–1, 6–2. She reached the third round at the 2025 Australian Open and helped Canada capture its first-ever Billie Jean King Cup title in 2023.

The US Open return Fernandez opened her 2025 campaign with a straight-sets win over Rebecca Marino, then came back from a set down to beat Elsa Jacquemot. In singles, she reached the third round, where she faced defending champion and world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. Fernandez fought hard, pushing the second set to a tiebreak, but Sabalenka prevailed 6–3, 7–6(2), moving into the fourth round.

In doubles, Fernandez partnered with Venus Williams, forming an unexpected but compelling tandem. The duo advanced to the quarterfinals, where they were defeated by top seeds Taylor Townsend and Katerina Siniakova 6–1, 6–2. The partnership attracted attention for the mix of youth and legend, and Fernandez’s poise alongside a veteran player was widely praised.

Family, roots, and a wider fanbase

Fernandez’s Ecuadorian and Filipino-Canadian heritage has made her a symbol of multicultural representation in sport. Her mother’s parents are from Laoag, Philippines, and her father is Ecuadorian, giving her a rich cultural background that resonates with fans worldwide. She speaks English, French, and Spanish, reaching audiences across North America and beyond. Her diverse roots highlight the global appeal of her talent and character. The business of being Leylah She has built a growing brand with sponsors including Lululemon, Babolat, Morgan Stanley, Google Canada, Gatorade Canada, EasyPost, and Youth Athletes United. She also participates in clinics tied to Morgan Stanley’s Come Play initiative, bringing tennis and financial literacy to youth.

Giving back Fernandez and her family launched the Leylah Annie & Family Foundation, offering scholarships and sports grants to young athletes facing financial barriers.

Where grit meets grace

Her 2025 U.S. Open run may have ended in the third round in singles and the quarterfinals in doubles, but it reaffirmed why Fernandez captivates audiences. She plays with composure and fight, pushing Sabalenka to a tiebreak and holding her own alongside Venus Williams in doubles. From her 2021 breakthrough to her WTA 500 triumph this summer, Fernandez continues to embody the balance of grit and grace that defines champions in the making.

Inside the teaching, travels, and transformation of students whose harmony reflects community and humanity.

Editor’s Note: This is Part Two of Rhizomes’ special feature on St. Genevieve School. Part One explored the leadership, mission, and inspiration that shaped the school’s growth and identity. This installment highlights the worldacclaimed choir, Valiant Voices, and the students whose voices carry St. Gen’s spirit of harmony to audiences far and wide.

“Supporting this core human imperative to live in community is our unique ability to share our thoughts, ideas, and emotions. The success of our species comes down to this: Art creates culture. Culture creates community. And community creates humanity.”

Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross, Your Brain on Art: How the Arts

Transform Us (2023)

Interviewing 56 students in one day might seem daunting, but their reflections on choir

director Mr. Avendaño, known as Mr. A, revealed both admiration and transformation. Students described him as God-fearing, passionate, knowledgeable, caring, and patient. One said he was “a light, providing me a sense of peace and belonging.” Amanda Allen called him

“unbelievably talented, with unparalleled commitment to kids to see the world. Imagine devoting his summer to choir festivals in Europe for two weeks, one week of rest, and another two weeks in China. We hit the jackpot with Mr. A.”

Music as discipline and joy

Under Mr. A’s leadership, the Valiant Voices mastered thirty songs in twelve languages, from Latin and Mandarin Chinese to Tagalog, German, and Swedish, even including bird calls and nature sounds. He emphasizes patience: “We cannot master a piece overnight. It takes time to learn a skill, and with patience, once they reach a goal and standard, great fulfillment will be achieved.”

Rehearsals begin with warmups tailored to specific challenges. Students practice solfège, circle together to fine-tune harmony, and critique performances to improve.

One said, “I only bring my best positive self into the choir. I practice and make sure I know my part in the song.” Another added, “There’s always a place in the choir to grow and develop your voice.”

On the world stage

The choir’s accomplishments are extraordinary for a non-auditioned group. They have sung O Sacrum Convivium for Mass at the Cathedral, won two gold diplomas at the 2024 World Choir Games in New Zealand, and performed at Carnegie Hall and St. Peter’s Basilica before Pope Francis. In 2024, they toured Italy, singing at the Duomo in Milan, St. Eustachius in Venice, and churches in the Alps. “My favorite moment was performing in a church in the Alps and receiving a standing ovation. Another was in the Duomo. It felt like a vivid dream being in such a beloved and holy place,” said Breanna.

In 2025, they traveled to China for the Bond with Kuliang: China–US Youth Choir Festival, performing in Fuzhou and Beijing. Elijah remembered the breathtaking Alps and the Great Wall. Jolene, in her fourth year, reflected: “It made me less shy and more open. Singing in the Alps brought me joy because of how nice everyone else was at the festival and how great the view was.”

Students transformed For many, the choir experience reshaped confidence and identity. Jolene discovered openness. Abigail defined harmony as “a magical sound… when a bunch of people come together.” Christer admitted he was initially forced

to join but later realized “music and singing is something I love to do, which I hope inspires others as much as it inspires me. With my friends, I made memories singing in person to Pope Francis and the First Lady of China, Madam Peng.”

The Valiant Voices are proud of their medals, but their greater triumph is in the solidarity they nurture within the choir and across cultures. Each performance, each song, becomes an act of building community through love and harmony.

The story of St. Genevieve is not only about growth, leadership, and achievement, but about love made visible in community and harmony. From the vision of its leaders to the voices of its students, the school shows how faith, generosity, and the Holy Spirit can transform lives, carrying their mission from campus halls to cathedrals, concert venues, and communities across the globe.

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

* * * Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D. writes a weekly column

Filipino vs Pilipino

The Philippines’ national language has shifted from Wikang Pambansa to Pilipino and finally to Filipino, as enshrined in the 1987 Constitution. More than a name, Filipino reflects unity in diversity and continues to evolve with the people

by AJPress

MANILA – What’s in a name?

For the Philippines’ national language, the journey from Pilipino to Filipino is more than a matter of spelling. It reflects decades of constitutional shifts, cultural debates, and the continuing effort to define a shared national identity.

At the center of this evolution is the 1987 Constitution, which in Article XIV, Section 6 declares:

“The national language of the Philippines is Filipino. As it evolves, it shall be further developed and enriched on the basis of existing Philippine and other languages.”

This provision formally adopted Filipino as the national language, replacing the earlier designation Pilipino under the 1973 Constitution. More than a change in terminology, the adoption of “Filipino” signaled inclusivity, embracing the diverse linguistic traditions of a multilingual nation.

From national language to Tagalog The journey began with the 1935 Constitution, which mandated the creation of a “common national language based on one of the existing native languages.” At that stage, it was simply called the National Language (Wikang Pambansa).

In 1937, President Manuel L. Quezon issued Proclamation No. 134, selecting Tagalog as its basis. By 1940, with the publication of a grammar guide and dictionary, Wikang Pambansa was formally taught in schools, laying the foundation for a national tongue.

The Pilipino era By 1959, then Education Secretary José Romero issued Department Order No. 7, officially naming the language Pilipino. This name was later carried into the 1973 Constitution, which recognized Pilipino as the national language. However, the Tagalog-based orthography of Pilipino excluded letters such as F, J, V, and Z. These sounds were present in other Philippine languages, leading to criticism that Pilipino was too narrow and failed to represent the country’s linguistic diversity. From Pilipino to Filipino

The framers of the 1987 Constitution sought to address this limitation. By adopting the word Filipino, they restored the full Philippine alphabet and broadened the scope of the national language. Filipino was envisioned as a living, evolving language that would draw not only from Tagalog but also from Cebuano, Ilocano, Kapampangan, Waray, and other tongues, alongside loanwords from English, Spanish, and other world languages.

Filipino as a people Beyond language, Filipino also refers to the people of the Philippines. During the Spanish colonial period, the term Filipino originally applied to Spaniards born in the archipelago. By the late 19th century, nationalist leaders such as José Rizal and Marcelo H. del Pilar redefined the term to mean all natives committed to the struggle for independence.

After independence in 1946, Filipino became the official demonym for citizens of the Republic of the Philippines. Today, a Filipino may be Cebuano, Ilocano, Kapampangan, Tausug, or from any of the country’s many ethnolinguistic groups. In this way, Filipino carries a dual meaning: it

refers both to the people and to the language that unites them. Language as nationhood

The shift from Wikang Pambansa to Pilipino and finally to Filipino underscores that the national language is not static. As stated in the 1987 Constitution, Article XIV, Section 6, Filipino is meant to evolve and be enriched by the country’s many languages.

For Filipinos, this journey represents more than the growth of vocabulary. It reflects the continuing effort to strengthen unity and identity across more than 7,000 islands, bound together by a shared, ever-evolving voice. Timeline of the National Language

• 1935 – Constitution mandates creation of a national language (Wikang Pambansa).

• 1937 – President Quezon proclaims Tagalog as the basis.

• 1940 – Grammar guide and dictionary published;  Wikang Pambansa taught in schools.

• 1959 – Education order names the language Pilipino.

• 1973 – Pilipino retained in the Constitution.

• 1987 – Constitution adopts Filipino as the official, evolving national language.