101825 - Los Angeles Edition

Judge halts federal layoffs as shutdown enters third week

to a petition seeking a writ of kalikasan over alleged environmental violations tied to the country’s flood-control programs.

in a resolution dated september 30, the court required the respondents to submit comments within 10 days of notice, while petitioners were told to file a verified version of their pleading within five days. the order does not yet grant the writ but begins judicial review of the petition’s environmental and administrative claims. Top officials and agencies named respondents include President marcos, con-

gressional leaders, and senior officials of the Department of Public Works and highways (DPWh), Department of environment and Natural resources (DeNr), Department of Budget and management (DBm), Department of the interior and Local Government (DiLG), metro manila Development Authority (mmDA), and the river

reuters and PBs Newshour. Judge illston criticized the speed and scope of the layoffs and warned that the actions could violate statutory and constitutional safeguards. she directed federal agencies to provide detailed records of all planned personnel cuts before taking any further steps. the temporary restraining order marks

US Supreme Court lets stand rule allowing H-1B spouses to work

The U.S. Supreme Court declines to review a challenge to the H-4 work authorization rule, preserving the Obama-era policy that allows certain spouses of H-1B visa holders to work legally in the U.S.

WAshiNGtoN, D.c. — the U.s supreme court has declined to review a long-running legal challenge to a rule that allows certain spouses of h-1B visa holders to work in the United states—effectively preserving an obama-era policy that has helped tens of thousands of immigrant families maintain dual incomes and economic stability. the court’s decision, announced this week, leaves intact a lower-court ruling by the U.s court of Appeals for the D.c circuit, which

mANiLA — the independent commission for infrastructure (ici) said it will seek the forfeiture of roughly P5 billion in assets linked to alleged anomalies in government flood-control projects, following a series of Anti-money Laundering council (AmLc) freeze orders issued by the court of Appeals. ici executive director Brian Keith hosaka said the frozen funds span “around” 2,800 bank accounts and will be the subject of civil forfeiture cases independent of any criminal prosecution. in a briefing, hosaka explained that after a freeze order, the government must petition the court of Appeals to forfeit the assets. initial freezes last 20 days and may be extended for up to six months while the forfeiture application is heard, during which the assets remain restrained. the AmLc has disclosed a rolling series of freezes as its probe widens. on oct. 8 it

men’s national basketball team through 2028. the appointment, confirmed on UsA Basketball’s official website and approved by the organization’s Board of Directors, makes spoelstra the first coach of filipino descent to lead team UsA and among the most prominent Asian American coaches in basketball. he succeeds Golden state

mANiLA - U.s. Ambassador to the Philippines maryKay L. carlson paid tribute to filipino World War ii veterans, calling the presentation of the U.s congressional Gold medal to them one of the most meaningful moments of her four-decade diplomatic career. “Among the most meaningful things i’ve done in my four decades as a diplomat is present the U.s congressional Gold medal to filipino WWii veterans,” carl-

son wrote on X, expressing gratitude for their service and sacrifice. “Proud to call these heroes and their families #friendsPartnersAllies!” the U.s congressional Gold medal—one of America’s highest civilian honors—was collectively awarded to filipino and filipino American WWii veterans on october 25, 2017, in recognition of their valor and contributions during the war. over 250,000 filipinos fought under the U.s flag between 1941 and 1946 as

Vice President Sara Duterte says DepEd’s confidential funds were used to investigate corruption, including the laptop procurement case, and calls on the Ombudsman to probe Zaldy Co and Sunwest Construction

mANiLA — Vice President sara Duterte said this week that the Department of education’s confidential funds during her tenure as secretary were used to investigate alleged corruption within the agency, in-

cluding the controversial laptop procurement for public school teachers. Duterte, who led the department from 2022 to 2024, said the funds supported information-gathering and operations related to internal probes. she

SC orders Marcos, agencies to...

Also named are local government units and private contractors connected with flood-control projects nationwide.

Petition alleges neglect and misuse filed in september 2025 by a coalition of environmental advocates and lawyers, the petition claims that years of neglect, substandard work, and administrative lapses have worsened flooding across several regions. it urges the court to order a nationwide cleanup of rivers, ca-

nals, and drainage systems, and to compel the release or creation of a comprehensive national flood-control master plan. the petitioners also seek accountability measures, including possible prosecution of individuals or entities allegedly responsible for environmental damage and fund misuse.

DBM refers case to Solicitor General on october 16, the Department of Budget and management confirmed that it had received the court’s resolution and

referred the case to the office of the solicitor General, which will represent the government. the DBm said it supports transparency and proper fiscal governance in the handling of public funds.

ICI moves to seize P5B in assets the independent commission for infrastructure (ici), which is investigating irregularities in the P545-billion flood-control program, said it plans to forfeit about P5 billion in assets believed linked to the alleged scheme. the Anti-money Laundering council (AmLc) has also secured a freeze order covering 39 assets tied to the controversy.

High Court to determine next steps once all comments are filed, the supreme court will decide whether to issue the writ of kalikasan — a constitutional remedy that safeguards the right to a balanced and healthful ecology when large-scale environmental harm is alleged. if granted, the case could become one of the most significant tests of environmental accountability under the marcos administration. n

ICI moves to forfeit about P5B in assets...

announced a fifth order, pushing restrained assets to about P4.4 billion. two days later the council reported a sixth order that covered 39 bank accounts, four insurance policies, and 59 real properties, bringing the total higher and nearing P5 billion. officials cautioned the figures are a moving target as additional orders and leads develop.

ici said the forfeiture push is part of a whole-of-government effort that includes the office of the ombudsman, Department of Justice, office of the solicitor Gen-

eral, AmLc, and the Department of Public Works and highways (DPWh). ici chair and former supreme court justice Andres B. reyes Jr. underscored that beyond prosecutions, the state aims to recover public funds: “Justice is not enough. We need restitution. Discaya vehicles eyed for auction; tax and customs issues cited separately, the Bureau of customs (Boc) said it will auction 13 luxury vehicles associated with contractors Pacifico “curlee” Discaya ii and cezarah “sarah” Discaya after issuing a Warrant of seizure and Detention over al-

leged documentary and tax deficiencies. Boc commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the bureau is seeking Department of finance approval and estimates potential proceeds at about P220 million if the vehicles are forfeited and sold. Next steps in asset recovery ici said interagency coordination will continue and that regular meetings are planned to expedite asset recovery while separate criminal inquiries proceed. BusinessWorld reported that forfeiture petitions are being prepared for filing before the court of Appeals. n

US ambassador honors Filipino WWII...

members of the Philippine commonwealth Army, scouts, and guerrilla units. Ambassador carlson has participated in several medal conferment ceremonies in the Phil-

ippines, including a 2023 event in taguig city, where 50 surviving veterans were honored by the Philippine Veterans Affairs office and the U.s embassy in manila. the envoy’s tribute under-

scores the enduring alliance between the Philippines and the United states—rooted in shared history, defense cooperation, and respect for wartime sacrifice that continues to bind both nations across generations. n

Erik Spoelstra named head coach of US...

who guided the program through the 2024 Paris Games.

It’s an incredible honor to be named head coach of the USA Basketball Men’s National Team,” spoelstra said in the official statement. “Representing our country and leading world-class athletes to marquee competitions is one of the greatest privileges in sport. I look forward to carrying on the tradition of excellence and teamwork that defines USA Basketball.”

According to UsA Basketball, the decision was made by Grant hill, managing director of the men’s national team, and remains subject to approval by the U.s olympic & Paralympic committee.

I have known Erik Spoelstra for the better part of two decades,” hill said. “Spo is not only an outstanding coach, but a great colleague, friend, and father, all of which make him the perfect choice to continue the USA Basketball coaching legacy through 2028.”

Coaching tenure and achievements spoelstra, 54, will lead the United states at the 2027 fiBA men’s World cup in Doha, Qatar, and the 2028 olympic Games in Los Angeles. he will also oversee training camps and exhibition games in preparation for both tournaments.

since being promoted to head coach of the miami heat in 2008, spoelstra has become one of the most respected tacticians in professional basketball. Under his leadership, miami has appeared in six NBA finals (2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2020, 2023) and won two championships (2012 and 2013). he is currently the longest-tenured active NBA head coach with one team.

spoelstra has been involved with UsA Basketball for more than a decade, including stints as assistant coach at the 2023 fiBA World cup and the 2024 Paris olympics, where the United states reclaimed gold. he also led the UsA select team in 2021, mentoring rising NBA players preparing for national duty. From video coordinator to champion coach erik Jon spoelstra was born on November 1, 1970, in evanston, illinois, to Jon spoelstra, a former NBA executive, and elisa celino spoelstra, a native of san Pablo, Laguna, Philippines, who is reported to be a journalism graduate of the University of the Philippines Diliman.

raised in Beaverton, oregon, spoelstra played basketball at Jesuit high school and later at the University of Portland, where he was named West coast conference freshman of the Year in 1989. After graduating in 1992, he played professionally for tus herten in Germany and served briefly as a player-coach, an experience that shaped his approach to strategy and leadership. in 1995, spoelstra joined the miami heat as a video coordinator under Pat riley. his sharp eye for analytics and preparation earned him steady promotions to assistant coach and director of scouting by 2001. When riley stepped down in 2008, he named spoelstra as his successor. Under spoelstra’s guidance, the heat built the celebrated “Big three” era with LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and chris Bosh, reaching four consecutive NBA finals and winning back-to-back titles in 2012 and 2013. he later guided the franchise through a new competitive phase, leading teams anchored by Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo to NBA finals appearances in 2020 and 2023. in January 2024, spoelstra agreed to an eight-year contract extension reportedly worth more than $120 million, according to esPN, making it one of the largest coaching deals in NBA history. he was also named among the NBA’s top 15 coaches of All time and inducted into the University of Portland hall of fame. Filipino heritage and representation spoelstra’s appointment carries deep meaning for filipino fans worldwide. his mother’s roots in Laguna and her journey to the United states shaped his perspective and family values. he has frequently visited the Philippines to conduct youth basketball camps and promote community

development programs.

During team UsA’s visit to manila for the 2023 fiBA World cup, spoelstra described the experience as profoundly meaningful, connecting his professional life with his filipino heritage. his elevation to head coach now extends that representation to the olympic stage, symbolizing pride for filipino Americans and the broader Asian community.

Building the next era of Team USA

UsA Basketball has not yet announced assistant coaches or support staff for the 2025–2028 cycle. officials said additional appointments will be shared later. No contract terms, including salary or performance incentives, have been made public. early analysis suggests that spoelstra will bring his trademark adaptability and defensive discipline to team UsA’s next era, focusing on player development and team cohesion as veteran olympians transition out.

“Absolutely, absolutely humbled,” spoelstra told the Associated Press about leading the team into the 2028 Los Angeles olympics. “it is the honor of a lifetime to compete on your own soil, that’s simply remarkable.”

A milestone in American basketball spoelstra’s appointment marks a defining moment for UsA Basketball. his journey from an oregon upbringing to NBA champion and now national team head coach reflects both the global reach of basketball and the growing visibility of filipino Americans in sports leadership.

As he prepares to lead team UsA into a new olympic cycle, spoelstra’s journey embodies excellence, perseverance, and the growing diversity that continues to shape the face of American basketball. n

Students march to Mendiola, call for...

students from the University of the Philippines, University of santo tomas, De La salle University, and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines joined the demonstration under the banner Change the rotten system.” they carried placards urging reforms and denouncing alleged misuse of

public funds tied to the P545-billion flood-control program now under government investigation.

Broader call for reform student leaders called for faster resolution of corruption cases, the release of officials’ statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (sALNs), and the reallocation of misused funds to

education and social services. officials acknowledged the protesters’ right to assemble and said ongoing investigations will proceed under due process. the rally concluded peacefully by dusk, echoing

ang sistemang

!” — a renewed call for integrity in public service. n

Judge halts federal layoffs as shutdown...

an early victory for unions such as the American federation of Government employees (AfGe), which argued that firing staff during a lapse in appropriations was unlawful and punitive. AfGe said the decision is an important protection for federal workers who have gone without pay for more than two weeks. the office of management and Budget (omB) had defended the layoffs as part of a long-term strategy to reduce the size of government while keeping military

and security operations funded. About 176 employees at the cybersecurity and infrastructure security Agency (cisA) were among those already dismissed before the ruling, according to agency data. President Donald trump said the White house will still release this week a list of programs his team intends to cut if congress does not pass a spending bill, describing them as priorities of Democrats. the Associated Press called the shutdown “unlike any other,” noting the administration’s unprecedented use of

the funding lapse as leverage for agency restructuring. hundreds of thousands of federal workers remain furloughed or working without pay. Legal experts say the court order halting layoffs does not end the shutdown but ensures that terminations cannot proceed while litigation continues.

With the senate still deadlocked and no agreement in sight, millions of Americans remain caught between political brinkmanship and the limits of executive power. (AJPress)

US Supreme Court lets stand rule allowing...

last year upheld the Department of homeland security’s (Dhs) authority to grant employment authorization to eligible h-4 visa holders—the dependent spouses of h-1B workers in specialty occupations. the petition, filed by save Jobs UsA, argued that Dhs exceeded its legal authority when it created the employment authorization rule in 2015. the group contended that allowing h-4 spouses to work would disadvantage U.s workers and violated the immigration and Nationality Act.

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in its August 2024 decision, however, the D.c circuit rejected those arguments, affirming that Dhs has “broad authority to set employment conditions for nonimmigrant visa categories.” the appellate panel found that congress had explicitly empowered the agency to define terms of stay and work eligibility for certain visa holders, including dependents of h-1B workers who are on a path toward permanent residency.

By refusing to hear the case, the supreme court effectively affirmed that interpretation—without issuing a written opinion—allowing the 2015 rule to stand.

What the rule allows Under the h-4 employment Authorization Document (eAD) program, spouses of h-1B visa holders may apply for work permits if the principal visa holder has an approved immigrant petition (form i-140) or has received an extension beyond the six-year h-1B limit while awaiting permanent residency.

Uscis data show that more than 179,000 h-4 spouses have received work authorization since the rule took effect in 2015, the majority of them women from india and other Asian countries. eligible spouses can file form i-765 with Uscis to obtain work authorization and legally work for any U.s. employer.

According to the Dhs rule summary, the policy “helps U.S. businesses retain highly skilled workers who are pursuing permanent residence” and reduces financial strain on their families—many of whom contribute to key sectors such as technology, healthcare, and education. Broader significance the supreme court’s move provides stability for thousands of immigrant families whose

livelihoods depend on dual incomes. Advocacy groups praised the decision, saying it upholds family unity and recognizes the economic contribution of skilled immigrants.

The H-4 EAD rule has allowed families to thrive instead of forcing spouses to sit idle despite their qualifications,” said immigration attorney Anu Peshawaria, a former legal adviser to the indian embassy in Washington, speaking in earlier interviews about the h-4 eAD program. “This is a victory for fairness and for the American economy. ” critics, however, maintain that the rule circumvents congress and grants the executive branch excessive leeway over immigration policy. similar concerns were raised by save Jobs UsA and other restrictionist groups, though no legislative proposal to overturn the rule has gained traction.

Continuing implications While the supreme court’s refusal to intervene preserves the rule for now, it does not prevent future administrations from revisiting the regulation through the formal rulemaking process under the Administrative Procedure Act. for the time being, Dhs guidance remains clear: eligible h-4 spouses can continue applying for or renewing their employment Authorization Documents, ensuring uninterrupted work eligibility. the case, save Jobs UsA v. Department of homeland security (No. 24-923), concludes a decade-long legal battle over a regulation that continues to shape the lives of thousands of immigrant families—and underscores the ongoing tension between judicial restraint and executive discretion in U.s. immigration policy. (AJPress)

German firms keep faith in Philippine market despite corruption woes

by AJPress

mANiLA German investors remain optimistic about the Philippines’ long-term prospects even as the government faces widening corruption probes in infrastructure projects. the German-Philippine chamber of commerce and industry (GPcci) continue expanding operations in renewable energy, logistics, and manufacturing, citing the country’s young workforce, english proficiency, and access to AseAN

markets. the renewed confidence comes as President ferdinand marcos Jr.’s administration investigates alleged irregularities in the P545-billion flood-control program. the independent commission for infrastructure (ici) has begun auditing projects following senate hearings that revealed identical project costs and questionable bidding patterns. Despite concerns, analysts note that German firms—with their long investment horizons—remain focused on

macroeconomic stability and structural reforms. they are mitigating risk through stronger compliance, third-party audits, and reliance on eU-backed trade protections.

Germany ranks among the Philippines’ top european trading partners, with bilateral trade exceeding $4 billion annually, Department of trade and industry data show. GPcci officials said continued transparency and consistent enforcement of procurement rules would sustain investor confidence. n

Social Security’s 2026 pay update delayed but benefits remain on track

Inflation report pushed back amid federal shutdown; retirees to see modest increase next year

by AJPress

WAshiNGtoN, D.c. — the announcement of the 2026 social security cost-of-Living Adjustment (coLA) has been delayed until october 24, 2025, due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. the social security Administration (ssA) confirmed that despite the delay, the benefit increase will take effect as scheduled in January 2026. the coLA, which adjusts social security and supplemental security income (ssi) benefits to keep pace with inflation, is based on the consumer Price index for Urban Wage earners and clerical Workers (cPi-W). the Bureau of Labor statistics (BLs) compiles the cPi data, but its release was postponed after federal workers were furloughed at the start of the shutdown.

the BLs has since recalled key staff to produce the september

inflation report, which will determine the final coLA figure. once released on october 24, the ssA will immediately announce the 2026 adjustment.

Projected increase

Analysts project a 2.6% to 2.8% increase, translating to roughly $50 more per month for the average retiree receiving about $2,000 in monthly benefits. Advocacy group the senior citizens League estimates the coLA at about 2.7%, reflecting slower inflation after two years of unusually high increases. the coLA for 2025 was 3.2%, following an 8.7% jump in 2023, the largest in more than four decades. experts caution that any gain may be partly offset by rising medicare Part B premiums, which the centers for medicare and medicaid services (cms) will announce later this fall.

Impact on beneficiaries the ssA reassured benefi-

ciaries that payments will not be disrupted despite the shutdown. the 2026 coLA will be reflected in January 2026 checks, consistent with the agency’s standard schedule. m ore than 71 million Americans receive s ocial s ecurity or ssi benefits. t he update will also affect related programs such as veterans’ and federal pensions. m eanwhile, the maximum taxable earnings subject to s ocial s ecurity payroll tax will increase to $176,100 next year, requiring higher contributions from top earners. the annual coLA remains a vital measure of how inflation shapes the daily realities of retirees living on fixed incomes. the ssA encourages recipients to verify their updated benefit amounts through their my social security accounts at ssa. gov/myaccount. n

Why trust is the new currency in the Philippines

by Josiah Go Inquirer.net

mANiLA — Across manila, Jakarta and Kathmandu, one force is reshaping markets: public outrage, not just at corrupt politicians, but also at ‘nepo baby’ influencers, entrenched institutions and once-untouchable brands. in today’s hyperconnected world, trust isn’t given, it’s earned. Lose it, and you lose customers.

scandals involving misused funds, political favoritism and influencer complicity aren’t just headlines; they’re changing how filipinos and southeast Asians choose who and what to support. trust is no longer a marketing value. in the Philippines, it has become the operating currency of business.

consumers are discerning, watching your values, partners, how you treat employees and how you respond in crises. in a culture where bayanihan (community support), pakikisama (social harmony) and utang na loob (debt of gratitude) run deep, brands that break these social codes don’t just lose market share, they may never recover.

But building trust is more complex than a checklist of values. it demands a shift in power dynamics, long-term commitment beyond headlines and ethical courage rooted in culture, not hidden behind it.

Political: Silence is complicity Political volatility is the new normal. Billions in flood control funds were misused, stirring public fury.

celebrities tied to political clans caught in scandals are reputation risks brands cannot ignore. Damage isn’t always visible, but savvy companies know these links quietly erode trust. Brands must ask: Who do we give power to? Partnerships and public stances now shape your brand’s trustworthiness. silence in moments of injustice is complicity, an active decision to lose trust. it’s not enough to avoid controversy. Brands must actively choose where to stand and understand that inaction speaks as loudly as action.

in a country where political and social networks are tightly

woven, failing to address uncomfortable truths risks long-term damage to brand credibility.

Economic: Resilience meets impatience Domestic demand and infrastructure investments remain strong, but cracks are showing. Power outages, flooding, inconsistent internet and poor roads disrupt businesses and frustrate consumers. customers want brands to own up fast when things go wrong. silence kills trust.

Apologies after the fact won’t cut it anymore. crisis sensitivity and operational empathy are competitive edges. But beyond reaction, brands must build trust into the operating system, ensuring resilience is baked into every process. consider how local communities often bear the brunt of infrastructure failures and climate risks.

Brands that invest in community resilience programs or collaborate with local governments are not only doing good, they’re signaling shared responsibility, which builds deep trust.

Social: Gen Z calls the shots the median filipino is 26 years old.

this Gen Z cohort, raised amid political drama, climate disasters and social activism, demands honesty, representation and real impact. they seek accountability, consistency and courage.

Yet, in an age of outrage and fleeting attention, brands must build trust that lasts longer than headlines. outrage is loud but temporary; long-term trust requires institutionalized integrity, not just reactive messaging. this means embedding accountability into governance, investing in transparent communication channels and authentically engaging with communities, not just during crises, but daily.

Technological: Build trust, not tricks Artificial intelligence, automation, and personalization grow, but so does digital distrust. fake reviews, deepfakes, and misinformation make consumers skeptical by default. Use technology to enhance real experiences, not just cut costs. invest in privacy, ethical data use and digital inclusion. transparency around Ai and

clear privacy policies build trust faster than flashy tech. Philippine brands must avoid the temptation to use technology as a gimmick. instead, technology should be a tool for inclusion and empowerment, especially in underserved areas where digital trust is fragile.

Legal: Compliance is just the baseline New rules on digital taxation and data protection pile up. following the law is expected, but not enough. trust grows in grey areas, where brands choose openness, care and accountability over technicality. Brands must move beyond compliance toward genuine empathy and proactive transparency. for example, brands that openly share how they safeguard customer data or involve consumers in feedback loops build far stronger trust than those that only meet minimum legal standards.

Environmental: Walk the talk the Philippines faces climate disasters head-on. Vague sustainability programs won’t cut it. consumers want measurable action: renewable energy, clean water, disaster preparedness. environmental trust isn’t a niceto-have, it’s survival. Brands that lead on environment aren’t just ticking boxes, they’re demonstrating shared risk and shared responsibility. Because climate change hits the Philippines hard and often, brands that overlook their environmental responsibility risk losing the trust and support they need to stay in business.

Cultural: The heartbeat of trust Various forces filter through deeply ingrained cultural lenses. Pakikisama demands social harmony but can silence conflict. Utang na loob builds loyalty but can blur professional lines. hiya fosters respect but can delay urgent transparency. cultural literacy requires brands to navigate these values with courage, not hide behind them. ethical leadership rooted in local culture is key to unlocking emotional loyalty. in a society where relationships matter more than contracts, brands must embody cultural values authentically while challenging the norms that allow u PAGE 5

DAteline PhiliPPines

ICC disqualifies prosecutor Khan from Duterte case over ‘appearance of bias’

by Cristina Chi Philstar.com

mANiLA — the international criminal court (icc) has disqualified chief Prosecutor Karim Khan from the case of former President rodrigo Duterte, citing a number of factors that may give an “appearance of bias” arising from his past legal ties to a potential witness in the case. in a ruling made public Wednesday, october 15, the icc Appeals chamber granted the request of the defense to disqualify Khan after it ruled that his prior work created “an objectively reasonable appearance of bias” that compromised his required impartiality. the decision cited the fact that Khan had interviewed witnesses and helped prepare a 2018 submission that explicitly named Duterte as the primary target for icc investigation –information Khan failed to disclose until months after Duterte’s arrest.

however, Khan — the icc’s chief prosecutor — is already on indefinite leave over a separate issue that is not related to the Duterte case: there is currently an investigation on allegations of sexual assault against him. the case against Duterte will continue under icc Deputy Prosecutor mame mandiaye Niang,

who has led the prosecution team from the start. Duterte remains in icc custody at the hague following his march 12 surrender on charges of crimes against humanity related to the thousands killed in his anti-drug campaign.

Khan’s undisclosed conflict emerged only after icc judges issued Duterte’s arrest warrant on march 7. the prosecutor then notified the court he had represented drug war victims in 2018, submitting what’s known as an Article 15 communication requesting an icc investigation into the Philippines. Undisclosed conflict of interest

Khan’s undisclosed conflict emerged only after icc judges issued Duterte’s arrest warrant on march 7. the prosecutor then notified the court he had represented drug war victims in 2018, submitting what’s known as an Article 15 communication requesting an icc investigation into the Philippines. court documents show Khan’s involvement went beyond simple representation. he personally conducted “activities of an investigatory nature” including interviewing individuals who later became prosecution witnesses against Duterte. the submission he helped prepare dedicated substantial sections to establishing Duterte’s individual criminal responsibility.

Khan purportedly waited until march 6, one day before Duterte’s arrest warrant was issued, to inform judges about his prior involvement. he didn’t disclose the full extent of his work to Duterte’s defense team until June 27, nearly four months after the arrest. in their october 2 decision publicized yesterday, the fivejudge Appeals chamber found that “a reasonable observer would conclude that in light of the nature and the extent to the Prosecutor’s involvement in the Article 15 Communication, he could be expected to have formed an opinion on the individual criminal responsibility of Mr Duterte.”

Khan had argued his prior work posed no conflict since no formal case existed in 2018 and the evidence now available far exceeded what he had access to as a victims’ lawyer. he insisted he had not participated in reviewing the arrest warrant application and had taken a leave of absence in may.

the judges rejected these arguments and stressed their duty to ensure fair proceedings. they noted the 2018 submission Khan helped prepare explicitly recommended Duterte be investigated and included detailed sections on his alleged command responsibility and intent to kill drug suspects. n

Ombudsman lifts restrictions on access to SALN

by Melanie Uson Philstar.com

the office of the ombuds-

man Jesus crispin remulla has issued a memo lifting the restriction on access to the statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth of public officials. in an unnumbered memorandum circular issued on tuesday, oct. 14, remulla has set the parameters on how the public can access the sALNs of public officials.

“This decision is guided by a simple principle: The public has a legitimate right to know how those in government acquire and manage their wealth. Transparency in this area is not a slogan — it is a safeguard against corruption and a deterrent to abuse of power,” the office of the ombudsman said in a statement.

All sALN requests must be submitted using the official sALN request form (Annex “A”) in two copies, and must be signed and sworn before an authorized officer of this office, unless there is a subpoena or official request from a quasi-judicial or investigative body.

it's also required that the requesting party present at least two original iDs, one of which must be government-issued, and pay the reproduction or certification fee. special provisions apply for media and student requesting parties. copies of sALNs will be provided upon request, except:

• The Ombudsman is not the official repository

• The requested SALN is not on file

• The request is for an unauthorized commercial purpose

• The requesting party has a derogatory record of misuse

• The request is linked to a pending case to influence or harass

• There is evidence of extortion or safety threats

• The identity of the requesting party is fictitious

• The purpose is contrary to law, morals, or public policy

All sALN requests will be assessed by a processing officer and reviewed by the Public Assistance and corruption Prevention office or the Public Assistance and corruption Prevention Bureau. requests involving grounds

for denial shall be referred to the office of Legal Affairs. certain personal details will be redacted from released copies for security, including the declarant and co-declarant's full address, signatures, government iDs, and the names, date of birth, and ages of unmarried minors living under the declarant’s care. for those who will publish or broadcast the sALNs, they also need to submit a copy of their reports to the ombudsman, who may use these to monitor the information’s use, prevent misuse, and initiate investigations if the content suggests "potential misuse, misrepresentation, or a violation of the requesting party’s undertaking.

Before this, remulla said that members of the media can immediately request sALNs of public officials.

"That should not be a problem. I know I’m opening a can of worms, but so be it,” he said during a press briefing. the malacañang on monday expressed support for lifting restrictions on public access to sALNs. Palace Press officer claire castro said that the executive branch, including President ferdinand r marcos Jr., is ready to comply.

“Kung ano naman po ang nararapat at kung ano ang sinasabi ng batas at kung ano ang makakabuti para malabanan ang korapsiyon ay tatalima naman po ang lahat ng nasa executive department," she said on monday. the latest memo overturns the order of his predecessor, samuel martires, through memorandum circular no. 1 in september 2020, which stated that sALNs can only be released with either the official's consent or a court order. (With reports from Daphne Galvez)

Why trust is the new currency in the...

opacity or excuses. The Trust Economy: Principles that power the flywheel the trust economy is a market where people buy based on trust, not just need. Value shifts from reach and price to reputation, accountability and cultural fit. here are seven core principles, interconnected like a flywheel, each fueling the next: humility–invitational mindset: Genuine openness to learn and grow, without getting defensive when challenged. But it’s not just about listening politely or saying “we’re humble.”

it goes deeper: it means actually sharing power and influence with the communities or people you serve, inviting their voices into decisions and respecting their role. cultural Literacy–respectful connection: Deep understanding of audience context, values, and language. But also the courage to challenge cultural norms that may hinder transparency or accountability. empathy–emotional Alignment: responding to real needs with compassion, not assumptions. requires continuous effort and presence, not one-off gestures.

t ransparency– m eaningful honesty: open communication that reduces fear, confusion and speculation. it must be consistent and proactive, not reactive

Pr

Authenticity–Grounded identity: consistency across time and touchpoints. Brands must resist becoming mere messaging machines and instead embody true values daily. consistency–reliability over time: Actions must repeatedly match words. trust is built in the invisible, everyday moments, not just big announcements.

Accountability–Worth Believing: owning mistakes, upholding integrity and being investable long term. trust requires brands to be vulnerable and willing to change. these principles work as an interdependent flywheel, each one powers the next, creating self-sustaining momentum. humility is not just the start, it’s the ongoing fuel. Trust is not a strategy. It is the operating system in the Philippines, where betrayal cuts deep and loyalty lasts decades, trust is not a metric. it is how you run your business. Brands that treat trust as a side effect chase recovery. Brands that embed trust as core infra-

Atong Ang files counter-affidavit in missing sabungeros case

by AJPress

mANiLA - Businessman charlie “Atong” Ang on friday, october 17, filed his counter-affidavit before the Department of Justice (DoJ), formally denying allegations linking him to the disappearance and alleged killings of several missing sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts) between 2021 and 2022.

Ang’s lawyer, Atty. Gabriel Villareal, said the filing responds to complaints for murder, kidnapping, serious illegal detention, and enforced disappearance lodged by former aide Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, who earlier claimed Ang and others—including actress Gretchen Barretto—were involved in the abductions.

Villareal said Ang’s defense includes extensive evidence, among them a video allegedly showing Patidongan with one of the missing men, contradicting the complainant’s account. he described the counter-affidavit as “about 18 inches thick” and supported by digital files. the defense asked the DoJ to refer the case back to the PNP–ciDG for what it described as a

fairer case buildup. Ang also filed counter-complaints in mandaluyong city against Patidongan and others for alleged false accusations and threats. co-respondent Gretchen Barretto earlier filed her own counter-affidavit, calling the charges “unsubstantiated.” the DoJ set the next preliminary hearing on November 3, 2025.

the case involves the disappearance of 34 sabungeros from 2021 to 2022, which raised suspicions of syndicates operating within the e-sabong (online cockfighting) industry. Patidongan later accused Ang of masterminding the abductions and disposing of the victims’ remains in taal Lake, claims both Ang and Barretto denied.

Authorities have recovered hundreds of skeletal remains, but no DNA matches have been confirmed with the missing men’s families. the DoJ has subpoenaed over 60 individuals linked to the ongoing probe. the DoJ’s review of Ang’s counter-affidavit will determine whether formal criminal charges will be filed or the case will be dismissed for lack of probable cause. n

NOTICE TO PROPOSERS

structure lead. this means building systems and cultures that live these values daily, with measurable accountability. Because in a trust economy, every signal matters. every silence is a statement. every decision a deposit or withdrawal. the brands that win in the Philippines won’t be the loudest or flashiest. they will be the clearest, most consistent and most human. trust is the future, not just a value, but the foundation. the question is: are we ready to build it boldly, deeply and for the long haul?

A free Trust Economy Flywheel briefing will be held via Zoom on Oct. 24, 2025, 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Preregistration is required at bit. ly/TrustEconomyFlywheel2025.

Josiah Go is the coauthor of the bestselling book “Entrepreneurship: The Four-Gate Model”, the #1 entrepreneurship book in the Philippines. He will lead discussion on “De-Risk to Succeed: How to Spot the Flaws in Your Business Model Before the Market Does” at the 9th Mansmith Entrepreneur Summit on November 8, 2025. The event will be streamed live nationwide via Zoom. Register now to receive a free copy of the book.

FeAtures OPiniOn

Beyond reform: Lighting the lamp of moral renewal

Reform alone cannot heal a nation’s moral fatigue. True renewal begins when Filipinos at home and abroad light the lamp of integrity and conscience, filling the world with the brightness of their example

There is an old Eastern parable that says, “If you clean your temple but never light the lamp, the darkness will still find you.”

it speaks of the emptiness that follows effort, the truth that cleansing alone does not bring light. the christian scriptures tell a story with a similar lesson. in it, a person is freed from an unclean spirit, but when that spirit later returns, it finds the house swept clean yet empty. seeing that the space has not been filled, it brings seven others more destructive than itself, and they all move back in. this image is not about ghosts or demons. it is a portrait of relapse, of what happens when the heart is cleared of what is wrong but not strengthened by what is right. A person who removes temptation but not desire, who abandons vice but does not replace it with virtue, remains vulnerable to what once held them captive. Both parables, though from different traditions, teach the same principle: cleansing is not completion. renewal must follow.

THIS nation, still finding its voice, cannot truly heal until we confront the truth behind the Bonifacio brothers’ execution—not with myth, but with justice rooted in history.” that call demands more than remembrance; it demands reckoning. And reckoning requires courage—the courage to ask difficult questions, to resist romantic distortions, and to reclaim filipino-centered authorship of our national narrative. on may 10, 1897, Andres and Procopio Bonifacio were executed by order of the revolutionary government led by emilio Aguinaldo. their deaths were not the result of colonial oppression but of internal rupture —of a fledgling republic grappling with factionalism, military setbacks, and competing visions of legitimacy. tried and convicted of sedition and treason, the Bonifacio brothers had formed a rival government in Naic, cavite, issuing documents that directly challenged the authority of the newly elected leadership at tejeros. this was not a symbolic protest— it was a destabilizing act at a moment of

public lives

the government of the day— the administration of President marcos Jr. and congress—is not the entire state. its failures may expose flaws in the constitution, but they do not necessarily undermine the viability of the constitutional state itself. it is worth keeping this distinction in mind amid the growing calls questioning the marcos government’s capacity to curb corruption. even in the absence of political consensus, institutional stability can endure. in modern society, conflict is almost a ritual feature of democracy, pitting government against opposition within rules set by the constitution—the anchor of stability from election to election. still, the deficiencies of governance cannot be ignored. corruption today afflicts not just agencies involved in procurement but seems rooted in congress and

even modern behavioral science affirms this truth. habits cannot simply be erased; they must be replaced. Psychologists call this habit substitution, the understanding that removing a harmful pattern without building a positive one leaves the mind open to relapse.

We see this in daily life: the dieter who quits sugar but never learns balance soon returns to excess; the person who stops drinking but does not fill the void with purpose slips back into the habit; the one who cuts spending but not desire finds themselves again in debt. the old returns because what was removed was never replaced. the same holds true for nations. cleansing without renewal invites the same failures to return, only in different forms.

The illusion of reform for decades, the Philippines has tried to clean

u PAGE 7

yes — but not myth:

Confronting the Bonifacio Brothers’ execution with historical clarity

existential crisis for the revolution. to confront this truth, we must ask:

• Why did Bonifacio recall troops from Pasong santol, enabling spain’s recapture of cavite and leading to the death of Gen. crispulo Aguinaldo?

• Why did he order the burning of indang, cavite, after townspeople refused to provide provisions?

• Why did he nullify the Tejeros elections—despite presiding over them—and establish a rival government dominated by his own faction?

• Why, after his execution, was there no coup, no mass defection, no assassin to avenge his death, if Aguinaldo was truly the “butcher of heroes”?

• Why did even Emilio Jacinto, Bonifacio’s closest ally, fail to rally support in Laguna to reignite a Bonifacio-led resistance? these are not rhetorical flourishes. they are historical inquiries that point to a sobering reality: the Bonifacio brothers were not silenced by colonizers but by the consequences of their own

decisions. their execution, while tragic, was not an act of arbitrary cruelty but a painful assertion of revolutionary discipline. As historian Ambeth ocampo and others have noted, Aguinaldo initially commuted their sentence to exile. it was pressure from his generals that led to the reinstatement of the death penalty. the tribunal’s verdict, however harsh, had legal grounding.

Yet the deeper wound lies not in the verdict but in the fracture it revealed. the first Philippine republic, for all its brilliance, lacked the institutional maturity to reconcile ideals with governance. it was a house still under construction. in that fragile moment, Bonifacio’s actions—however principled—threatened to collapse the revolution from within.

We must also confront another uncomfortable truth: Bonifacio’s elevation as a national hero was not the organic outcome of the revolution he helped ignite. it was orchestrated by American colonial administrators to discredit Aguinaldo and, by extension, the u PAGE 7

there is absolutely no doubt that the Philippines today is facing a dual challenge that goes beyond ordinary governance. on the one hand, an endemic corruption scandal has shaken public confidence in our institutions and provoked public outrage. on the other, there are external forces that seek to exploit our vulnerabilities, amplifying instability in hopes of changing the country’s political direction to serve their own interests. these domestic and external threats cannot be separated; they feed into each other. corruption has long been treated as a governance or economic issue, but today, it has become perfectly clear that it is also a national security risk. What is considered the most widespread corruption in government and the betrayal of public trust has sparked volatility and anger. When people see those in government as having no accountability, when public funds are abused and wasted and when justice is perceived as absent, the very legitimacy of government is weakened. that loss of public trust is extremely dangerous to national

stability in much the same way that insurgency or terrorism threatens peace and national security. internal security, therefore, must be understood more broadly than just simply police and military power, but about sustaining legitimacy. corruption undermines that legitimacy, and in so doing destabilizes the domestic order that national security depends upon. this is because corruption destroys the trust of the people in government, generating deep-seated resentment at the thought that billions of pesos that should have gone to health, education, basic services and food security were diverted to the pockets of these heartless corrupt officials, legislators and contractors. there is enough intelligence information that show growing indications that foreign forces are closely watching – with some actively working to inflame tensions, weaponizing social media by engaging peddlers of fake news to sow disinformation, using covert influence and political proxies to destabilize the government, even impersonating government offi-

cials to spread fraudulent messages. As a matter of fact, our embassy in Washington was recently the target of phone hacking and fake messages sent from telephone numbers that are not registered with the embassy, with some claiming to be me. ostensibly, messages were supposedly sent by me to some of our government intelligence officials. this is simply totally unacceptable. clearly, this situation requires stronger alliances as well as stronger internal defenses against information warfare and foreign manipulation. obviously, the goal of these malign actors is not to promote the welfare of filipinos but to create a political vacuum that they can manipulate. history teaches us that external meddling thrives when there is corruption and governance is weak. We have seen far too many examples where a country can very well become a pawn in a great power rivalry. in today’s indo-Pacific contest, the Philippines just happens to be u PAGE 7

the budgetary process itself. it has seeped into the very organs meant to ensure accountability, including the commission on Audit.

mr. marcos now faces a serious credibility crisis. from the evidence revealed in congressional hearings, while big-time corruption erupted during rodrigo Duterte’s presidency, it flourished during the marcos administration’s first three years in office. the young marcos cannot escape responsibility for it. the kindest interpretation is that he underestimated its extent when he dared to address it in his state of the Nation Address last July. the harsher view is that he tolerated it until confronted by the sheer brazenness of ghost projects. his main advantage is that he is president, able to act swiftly to stay ahead of the crisis. he began by overhauling the Department of Public Works and highways, epicenter of the scandal, replacing the ineffectual manuel Bonoan

with the more visible and assertive Vince Dizon as secretary. he then created the independent commission for infrastructure (ici), a fact-finding body tasked to investigate corruption in public works. the ici has no prosecutorial powers, but its implicit purpose is to demonstrate that the government can investigate itself credibly and impartially. to do so, it must operate transparently— communicating regularly with a public weary of secrecy and conspiracies. While private hearings may be justified to protect witnesses and preserve evidence, the failure to provide prompt and regular briefings was a mistake. in the absence of clear updates, rumor and speculation fill the void. even a brief, livestreamed media update every few days would reinforce public trust.

Another hopeful step is the appointment of a new ombudsman—an office empowered by

the very lifeblood of this blighted and blasted land. Are we now to accept the epithet ferdinand magellan gave the marianas islands in 1521—islas Ladrones, islands of thieves? our so-called “public servants” serve themselves, in grand manner and style, all that is due to the people who put them where they are now. As soon as they are installed in positions of power, these alleged “honorable ladies and gentlemen” get right down to the monkey business of enriching themselves—the end goal of which is to remain forever wealthy and powerful. the tragic fates that befell henry Puyi, the last emperor of the last dynasty of china, as well as that of Nicholas ii, last in the long line of romanov czars of russia, should serve as object lessons on the utter futility and meaninglessness of lives not lived and dedicated to the service of God, country, and neighbor. it is not okay to not be legally, ethically, and moralu PAGE

it has been said that monkeys do what monkeys see. impressionable minors will readily ape and mimic what they see their elders are doing, no matter how wanton or shameless. they are “inspired,” swayed, and persuaded by media influencers, spin doctors, handlers, and enablers to discard their rags of poverty and claw their way upward to opulence, profligacy, and extravagance by any means foul or filthy. As children and the youth observe what is happening in our present chaotic politics and anarchic government, what will be their takeaways, their coming-of-age realizations? What have the recent indecent disclosures at congressional hearings on corruption involving flood-control projects etched into their mindset, their values and their overall sense of right and wrong—of good and evil? the unchecked and unabated

wholesale and widespread pilferage of public funds enables corrupt politicians and public officials, contractors, and their cohorts to bankroll the lavish, orgiastic, and bacchanalian lifestyles of their families, nepo babies, wives, and mistresses, at the expense of the hoi polloi, whom they’ve relegated to wallowing in toxic floodwaters and grinding, unmitigated poverty. the root cause of our nation’s woebegone predicament is greed, the very bedrock of all other deadly sins. Pride is greed for self-aggrandizement and self-gratification. envy is the covetous desire to have what others have. Lust is greed for self-love and self-abuse, gluttony the illicit craving for food beyond what is needed and necessary, and sloth the inordinate desire to acquire things without having to work for them, to make easy money by way of graft and corruption. corruption in our country has become the norm, the standard,

u PAGE 7

Justice, yes — but not myth...

first Philippine republic—the very republic that had dared to declare independence in 1898 and establish Asia’s first constitutional democracy. By casting Aguinaldo as villain and Bonifacio as martyr, the colonial narrative undermined the legitimacy of filipino self-rule and recast our revolution as a failure in need of foreign salvation. this narrative distortion has enduring consequences. Aguinaldo’s rightful place in our national memory has been severed—even the Philippine flag he designed is often misattributed as a gift from the United states. Because Aguinaldo has been vilified as a traitor, the flag itself has been symbolically orphaned. in this retelling, the United states becomes both benefactor and liberator—the source of our heroes and our symbols. But Aguinaldo’s design was deliberate. he placed a human face on the filipino sun—not as ornament but as declaration. it signified that every filipino must be both author and lightbearer of our national story. When Americanization erased that face, it did more than alter a symbol—it dehumanized us. it replaced filipino authorship with American

identity and rewrote our history in a foreign voice. so what does justice look like today?

Justice is not vengeance. it is clarity. it is the courage to ask hard questions and the humility to accept complex answers. it is the restoration of filipino authorship—not the romanticization of martyrdom. Bonifacio’s death was tragic, yes—but it was also the result of choices that endangered the revolution itself. to heal, we must resume the revolution—not with borrowed narratives but with intellect, imagination, and conviction. Let our classrooms teach the full spectrum of our resistance—from Aguinaldo’s liberation of Luzon to the valor of del Pilar, Abad, and the warriors of Bud Bagsak. Let our monuments reflect not just grief but coherence. Let us reimagine our commemorative spaces to reflect the full arc of our revolutionary history. it is time to build civic landmarks like the proposed freedom ring and freedom torch—symbols of dialogue, sovereignty, and ancestral light rooted in the conviction seeded in the June 12, 1898, declaration of independence. these would supplant the U.s.-constructed rizal

monument and towering 150-foot flagpole at Luneta, which honor not our 1898 assertion of freedom but the belated U.s. recognition of Philippine independence in 1946. By shifting our national focal point from colonial relics to filipino-authored symbols, we affirm that our sovereignty was not granted—it was claimed. entrepreneurship, sovereignty, and justice all begin with authorship. the Bonifacio brothers deserve remembrance—but not as victims alone. they were protagonists in a revolution still unfolding. And if we are to finish what they began, we must do so with truth, not myth—with light, not borrowed glow. *

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 Filipino American Mural in LA and the Talang Gabay Gateway to Filipinotown, Silva fuses myth, scholarship, and activism to restore Filipino identity and authorship to the heart of national and global discourse.

Cleaning house without breaking...

the constitution to investigate and prosecute graft. Properly used, it can act on its own initiative and need not wait for formal complaints. had it been more proactive, the ici might have been unnecessary. Given the gravity of the scandal, speed is crucial. the quicker charges are filed, and trials commence at the sandiganbayan, the better the chances of preserving the credibility of the constitutional order. the straighttalking former Justice secretary Boying remulla seems perfect for the role. Asset recovery must also proceed without delay. the country has seen how sequestered or frozen assets quietly disappear when cases drag on. With stronger post-edsa laws, it should now be

easier to seize unexplained wealth. the government must show that corruption will no longer pay. this reckoning began with high-profile figures, but the problem runs through every level and branch of government. the cleansing must be comprehensive. much can still be achieved in the next two years if urgency is matched by resolve. Yet the deeper reset can come only with the 2028 national elections. that will be the opportunity to confront the political dynasties that have long treated public office as hereditary property and government as a source of family income. these are the same clans that have corrupted the party-list system and perpetuated the politics of patronage. if the outrage now sweeping the nation is to

mean anything, it must lead to their decisive defeat.

We have less than three years to turn this anger into a movement for renewal—one that reclaims the republic from those who mistake it for a cluster of fiefdoms. the process of building that movement has to begin with the self-questioning of our own everyday failures to recognize the difference between what is private and what is public, and to act ethically in conflict-of-interest situations. (Inquirer.net)

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

* * * public.lives@gmail.com

Control the flood of greed: Lessons for...

ly okay. it’s wrong to live by the credo that the end justifies the means, no matter how dishonest and dishonorable these may be. for the result to come out good, the beginning must be well-intentioned. fame and fortune, youth and beauty, rank and title, power and authority—you may not bring these with you to heaven or to hell when you die, and all bar none will be burned alongside your corpse at your funeral pure. What’s im-

portant, as Antoine de saint-exupéry’s “Little Prince” was wont to remind us, are the things that are invisible to the eyes but essential, unseen, yet substantive. the things that really matter—empathy, caring for others, love, and compassion—create a ripple that comes back to you, raising the tide in you and elevating you. since you cannot take anything material with you when you go, you might as well lighten your load and share some of what you have plenty of while you can.

We should teach our children to live simply and frugally, to follow the straight and narrow path, to be clear of mind and clean of heart, and to counter all evil acts by doing good deeds.

(Inquirer.net)

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

* * * sickbookstogo@gmail.com

Domestic security vs. external security...

geographically situated right in the middle of these crosshairs –potentially a battleground and a prize in the competition of these great powers. there is no question that vigilance is required on the external front. Disinformation campaigns, political destabilization and even covert efforts at regime change must be anticipated and neutralized. this is why the corruption scandal must not be treated as another business-as-usual politics. it is a serious national security crisis. the government cannot confront external interference if it is paralyzed by domestic scandal, nor will foreign allies take our security commitments seriously if filipinos themselves have lost faith in their government and their leaders. to face outward, the country must first put its own house in order. simply put – a country that is both clean at home and secure abroad cannot easily become vulnerable to destabilization.

President ferdinand marcos Jr. knows the challenges we face both internally and externally are equally important to address. he

is well aware that his administration’s credibility is on the line, as well as the nation’s resilience against foreign pressure. he has so far acted incisively: instructing the independent commission for infrastructure (ici) to do its job, ensuring credibility in the process and demonstrating political will most of all. failure to do so will not only feed more public anger but would also risk fueling more instability – giving outsiders potentially greater leverage. in the end, both fronts come down to one principle: trust. trust in government, trust in institutions and trust between leaders and the people. Without it, corruption festers, outside interference thrives and security collapses. With trust and confidence, no scandal or foreign pressure can undermine the nation’s fundamental strength. But ultimately, the government would be unable to secure its borders if it cannot secure the trust of its people. for the Philippines, this is a defining moment. if we can confront corruption with courage and transparency while standing firm against external interference, we will emerge stronger. But if we

hesitate – if we allow scandal and foreign meddling to dictate our future – then we risk being swept once again into the cycle of instability that has haunted our nation for far too long. the Philippines can no longer afford hesitation. Domestic and external security are not separate priorities. they are inseparable, and can even be described as two sides of the same coin. our nation’s future depends on acting with clarity and resolve today – not tomorrow. time is definitely running out. We must act swiftly and decisively, or we are bound to lose it. As my history professor once succinctly told me, if you snooze, you lose.”

Nobody wants to lose a country. We should never allow it. We not only owe it to ourselves but most especially to those who sacrificed their lives for the sake of our country. (Philstar.com)

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

* * * Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com

Beyond reform: Lighting the lamp of...

its political and moral house. each new administration begins with vows of reform, hearings on corruption, and renewed calls for accountability. Yet the same patterns return. What was swept away by outrage often reappears under new names and faces.

Like the parable’s house, the nation becomes orderly for a moment but remains unfilled. the emptiness is not political but spiritual. the system is cleaned but not renewed. the shadow returns because what was driven out was never replaced by what is good.

The roots of moral fatigue

At the center of the country’s dysfunction lies a cultural wound: the belief that self-worth is measured by possessions. over time, society has learned to admire success more than virtue and visibility more than substance. the price of material achievement often outweighs the value of moral character. this distortion feeds greed and exhaustion. corruption thrives not only because of weak institutions but because of misplaced admiration. When power, wealth, and status define success, people begin to envy the corrupt instead of resisting them.

Lighting the Filipino lamp filipinos have always carried deep spiritual strength, compassion, resilience, and faith. Yet in a culture increasingly shaped by consumption and comparison, that inner light flickers. reform alone cannot restore it. the work must begin where systems and souls meet, in the conscience. And this work belongs not only to those at home but to filipinos across the world. the diaspora, numbering over ten million strong, remains an extension of the nation’s moral conscience. Living in countries where transparency, civic discipline, and fairness are daily realities, filipinos abroad know that reform succeeds when ethics becomes ordinary. from that perspective, the diaspora holds both distance and devotion, enough distance to see clearly and enough devotion to care deeply. What the diaspora can do

Live the values we wish to see.

integrity practiced abroad is a form of national service. every act of fairness, diligence, and compassion by an overseas filipino mirrors the reform we long

for at home. Elevate the national conversation. Diaspora media, writers, and civic leaders can shape narratives that rise above cynicism and spectacle. When we highlight stories of honesty, service, and courage, we remind our readers that reform is moral before it is political.

Support education and ethical leadership. Beyond remittances, diaspora communities can invest in scholarships, civic education, and transparency programs that strengthen conscience and capacity. change deepens when integrity is funded as faithfully as infrastructure.

Vote and advocate with discernment. overseas voting is not symbolic; it is a statement of conscience. supporting leaders of substance over slogans tells the homeland what its people truly value.

Bridge cultures, not only economies. teach the next generation that being filipino is not only an identity but a responsibility to uplift, to serve, and to live honorably. cultural pride without civic virtue is sentiment without strength.

Uphold fairness in every exchange. from business to community work, each honest transaction strengthens the reputation of the filipino name. reform begins in character long before it reaches institutions.

The light we keep cleansing will always be necessary, but without illumination, the shadows will return. the Philippines must fill its house not only with new laws but with new life, with honesty, empathy, and shared purpose.

cultural transformation begins not in the halls of government but in the conscience of every filipino, wherever they may be in the world. reform is not a single act but a collective awakening, a thousand small lamps of integrity lit across continents and oceans. every philosophy, every faith, and every science of behavior point to the same truth: what is emptied must be filled, what is cleansed must be illuminated. the call for reform is, at its heart, a call for renewal, a turning back toward what is good, honest, and whole. if every fil-

ipino lights even a small lamp of integrity, the nation itself will begin to shine. may this change begin not with judgment but with awakening, not with accusation but with the courage to let light in. for when goodness is left untended, the heart forgets its light, and the shadows it once expelled will return to reclaim their place. (AJPress)

(LACMTA) REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

LAcmtA will receive proposals for oP124699 - expressLanes construction oncall civil maintenanceat the 9th floor receptionist Desk, Vendor/contract management Department, one Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles, cA 90012. A Virtual Pre-Proposal conference will be held on thursday, october 16, 2025, 11:00 a.m. Pacific time this project is a small Business enterprise (sBe) set-Aside contract. to participate in this rfP, proposers 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/smallbusinessprimeprogram All proposals must be submitted on forms furnished by LAcmtA, via email to bids@ metro.net on or before 10:00 a.m. Pacific time on thursday, November 13, 2025, at which time proposals will be opened and publicly read. Proposals received later than the above date and time will be rejected and returned to the proposer unopened. each proposal must be sealed and marked Proposal No. oP124699. 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 Juana ortiz Delgado at ortizdelgadoj@metro.net. 10/18/25 cNs-3975883# AsiAN JoUrNAL (L.A.)

Romualdez appears before ICI as resource person in flood control probe

by AJPress

mANiLA — Leyte 1st Dis-

trict representative martin romualdez appeared before the independent commission for infrastructure (ici) on tuesday, october 14, as a resource person in the investigation into alleged irregularities in flood control projects.

romualdez arrived at the ici headquarters with his legal team and submitted a sworn affidavit detailing his role in the national budgeting process. he said his appearance was part of his “commitment to transparency” and denied involvement in the alleged kickback scheme. I came here as a resource

person, not as an accused. I fully support the investigation and I am ready to answer all questions to clear my name,” he told reporters.

romualdez also dismissed claims that he received suitcases of cash linked to public works projects, calling them “baseless and politically motivated.”

ICI probe widens the ici, chaired by former supreme court Justice Andres reyes Jr., was created in september to investigate anomalies in government infrastructure spending, particularly flood control projects under the Department of Public Works and highways (DPWh).

ici executive Director Brian

Keith hosaka said the commission has uncovered over 400 “ghost projects” worth billions of pesos and will soon file criminal cases before the office of the ombudsman. the Department of Justice (DoJ) clarified that romualdez has not applied for state witness protection, saying he remains a “voluntary resource person.” the investigation centers on the P545-billion flood control program, where lawmakers and contractors allegedly demanded up to 25% kickbacks. romualdez’s participation, officials said, forms part of the commission’s effort to verify budgetary links and ensure accountability. n

Secretary Dizon accepts DPWH undersecretary’s resignation, stresses due process as probe widens

by AJPress

mANiLA — Public Works secretary Vince Dizon has accepted the irrevocable resignation of Undersecretary Arrey A. Perez, who stepped down amid allegations linking him to contractors in flood-control projects. Dizon emphasized that investigations must proceed based on verified facts and due process. Perez, who took his oath as undersecretary on september 29, resigned on october 17 to prevent the issue from distracting the Department of Public Works and highways (DPWh). Dizon de-

scribed him as a “good worker,” but said accountability requires proof, not speculation. We can’t hold anyone accountable without facts,” Dizon said. Reforms must be grounded in truth and transparency.” the resignation followed public claims by Batangas rep. Leandro Leviste, who alleged that certain DPWh officials had ties with favored contractors in the P545-billion flood-control program. Dizon urged accusers to present evidence through legal channels and warned against “trial by publicity.” Leviste later clarified that Perez is not a contractor but cited

reports questioning his previous procurement record. As of press time, no formal charges have been filed. Dizon said the DPWh will continue cooperating with the independent commission for infrastructure (ici) in reviewing alleged irregularities, including possible “ghost projects” and overpricing.

“We will pursue the investigation lawfully and transparently,” he said. By stressing fairness before accusation, Dizon signaled that reforms within the DPWh will rely on facts and accountability, not rumor. n

DFA rejects Tiangco’s ‘lawyering’ claim, cites due process in Zaldy Co passport issue

by AJPress

mANiLA — the Department of foreign Affairs (DfA) on friday, october 17, 2025, denied allegations by Navotas rep. toby tiangco that it is “lawyering” for former Ako Bicol rep. Zaldy co by refusing to cancel his passport, stressing that the agency is bound by law and due process. in a statement, the DfA clarified that under republic Act No. 11983, or the New Philippine

Passport Act, it may cancel a passport only upon the issuance of a court order—specifically in cases where the holder is a fugitive from justice, convicted of a criminal offense, or when the passport was fraudulently obtained or issued in error. The DFA cannot unilaterally revoke a passport outside the conditions prescribed by law,” the agency said, rejecting tiangco’s claim that its adherence to procedure amounted to defending co. tiangco earlier urged the DfA

to cancel co’s passport to compel his return to the Philippines, amid ongoing investigations into alleged irregularities in government flood-control projects. co resigned from congress last month, citing threats to his safety and concerns about due process. the DfA reiterated that it is not “lawyering” for anyone but merely following the rule of law. “We act only within the authority provided by statute and the constitution,” it said. n

Discayas end cooperation with commission, according to ICI executive director

by AJPress

coNtrActors Pacifico “curlee” and cezarah “sarah” Discaya have withdrawn their cooperation from the independent commission for infrastructure (ici) probe into the P545-billion flood-control projects, citing “personal remarks” made by one of the commission’s members, ici executive Director Brian Keith hosaka confirmed on Wednesday.

hosaka said the Discayas invoked their constitutional right against self-incrimination after commissioner rogelio singson publicly stated that the couple was not being considered for state witness status at this time. the Discayas reportedly viewed the comments as prejudicial and undermining their trust in the impartiality of the investigation.

hosaka clarified that singson’s statement was his personal opinion and not the official position of the commission. in the interview, singson—who previously served as secretary of public works and highways—said he opposed granting witness protection to those he regarded as “principal players” in the alleged anomalies. the Discayas’ decision to withdraw cooperation is seen as

Indefatigable CITEM Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo

During the press launch of the 2025 Manila FAME held at Centro de Turismo Intramuros—which I featured in Balikbayan Magazine some months ago—I felt honored when my former officemate, Leah Pulido Ocampo, the current Executive Director of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), an agency under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) responsible for all international trade events and related export programs for the Philippines, approached me.

She remains the same approachable, creative, hardworking, and amiable Leah I have known since my CITEM days. Her extensive experience and competence cover various aspects of micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) growth, development, and industry promotion in both local and international settings.

She is one of the brightest and most dedicated professionals who rose from the ranks. Her excellent service as a public servant has been honed through more than 20 years of career development.

Her training portfolio includes participation in International Trade and Export Promotion in The Netherlands; Investment Promotion in China; Digitalization for MSMEs in Vietnam; and MSME Development in Japan.

I remember that she served as project director for CITEM’s major export promotion events, including Manila FAME, International Food Exhibition (IFEX), CREATE Philippines, Go Lokal Program, Foodex Japan, Gulfood in Dubai, NY Now in New York, Boston Seafood Show, Anuga, China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, China, and Expo Seville.

She also led delegations for numerous Philippine business missions across key cities worldwide, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Kobe, Japan; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam; Myanmar; Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, Vietnam; Hong Kong; Singapore; Jakarta, Indonesia; Nanning, China; Dubai, UAE; Los

Angeles, California; Boston; New Jersey; New York, USA; Toronto, Canada; Seville and Granada, Spain; Brussels, Belgium; Eindhoven and Rotterdam, The Netherlands; and Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Frankfurt, Germany.

Certainly, her directorship at CITEM, which she assumed in June 2024, marks her return to the agency where she began honing her skills through various key positions that helped shape her solid experience in industry development, MSME growth, and export marketing and promotion.

To Leah—may you continue to be blessed as a dedicated and passionate public servant in the world of transformational leadership. Leah Ocampo in Italy

As part of their benchmarking and learning activities following the Fashion Philippines showcase in Milan, representatives from the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), led by Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo and Creative Goods Division Chief Anna Marie Alzona, were joined by Lilo Caya of the Philippine Textile Research Institute, Carissa Cruz Evangelista of the Philippine Fashion Coalition, and Tetta Ortiz-Matera of LIT Fashion Consultancy in a visit to Reggiani.

Reggiani is a pioneering Italian textile company renowned for being the first in the world to industrially produce wool-Lycra and cottonLycra fabrics—a breakthrough that transformed the global textile industry. Its innovations have

long attracted the world’s top luxury brands, including Hermès, Coccinelle, Loro Piana, and leading houses within the Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy (LVMH) Group.

The delegation was warmly received by Mr. Giovanni Reggiani, Creative and Sales Director and son of the company’s founder, together with Marco Spola, General Director. Fellow Andrean Tony Gonzales

On that same day, I met a fellow alumnus of St. Andrew’s School, Parañaque, Tony Gonzales (High School Batch 1978), during the Manila FAME press preview.

In the late 1990s, a new generation of Filipino designers emerged—among them Tony Gonzales and Milo Naval, two of the founding members of Movement 8, a pioneering collective that helped bring Philippine design to global recognition.

Catch Design Commune and more at Manila FAME 2025, the Philippines’ premier home, fashion, and lifestyle trade show organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (DTICITEM) on October 16–18, 2025, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, Philippines.

•Register as a trade buyer: https://citem.ph/p/fb75fc

•Register as a visitor: https:// citem.ph/p/d35b7d Dream of the Biblical Books

On October 13, 2025, I dreamed of the different contents of the Old Testament and the New Testament of the Holy Bible—from the Book of Genesis to the Book of Revelation

However, I forgot to mention the Books of Job, Psalms, and Proverbs in the Old Testament and most of the books in the New Testament (except Revelation) in that dream.

I remember when I was in high school at St. Andrew’s School in Parañaque City—which has produced many priests, including Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle—I memorized all the books of the Holy Bible and received a final grade of 99%. Thanks to my late religion teacher, Odelia Cruz. Contents of the Holy Bible Old Testament: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Tobit, Judith, Esther, 1 Maccabees, 2 Maccabees, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Wisdom, Sirach, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Baruch, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi.

New Testament: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts of the Apostles, Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, 1

2 John, 3 John, Jude, and Revelation.

a setback to the ici’s ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in Department of Public Works and highways (DPWh) flood-control projects. their construction companies were among those awarded multiple contracts now under scrutiny for possible overpricing and collusion. Assistant ombudsman mico clavano called the couple’s move “misguided,” saying cooperation would have demonstrated transparency and good faith. Prose-

cutor General

said the Department of

has not received

notice of withdrawal from

couple in its parallel probe, adding that cases can proceed based on existing documents and evidence.

hosaka maintained that despite the withdrawal, the ici remains committed to uncovering irregularities and ensuring accountability in the government’s infrastructure program. n

CBCP president: Redeem state, not dismantle it

by Gillian VillanueVa Inquirer.net

mANiLA — corruption in the government can only be resolved by reforming instead of dismantling democratic institutions, cardinal Pablo Virgilio David said, as he described calls to establish a military junta as attempts by dynasties and plunderers to avoid accountability.

We seek not the collapse of the state but its redemption,” David said in a facebook post on sunday, as he called for a “dismantling, not of the government itself, but [of] the corrupt networks that have captured and crippled it.” the aim of criticizing, investigating, and holding public officials accountable is “not to destroy, but to strengthen” government institutions, he said, adding that “we do not need to burn the house down to get rid of the rats.”

What the country needs is not another revolution of rage, but a revolution of integrity,” said David, who is also president of the catholic Bishops’ conference of the Philippines.

We must restore the systems of checks and balances, counteract disinformation, reform the electoral process, end patronage politics and political dynasties, and renew the moral foundations of public service,” he said.

‘Unholy union’ David said calls to establish a “civilian-military junta,” which came from some retired military

officers who attempted and failed to stage a coup d’etat during the sept. 21 anticorruption rallies, were “attempts by discredited dynasties and plunderers to save themselves from accountability.”

“These are the same forces that engineered the so-called ‘Uniteam’ alliance during the last elections — an unholy union of political dynasties now turning against each other for power,” David said. “When crooks quarrel with crooks, it is not justice but survival they seek. Armed forces of the Philippines chief of staff Gen. romeo Brawner Jr. earlier confirmed that some retired military officials tried to convince him and other younger officers to withdraw support from President ferdinand marcos Jr., but their efforts were rebuffed.

Redemption possible David, in his post, also called on the church to “remind the nation that institutions can be redeemed.” “Our faith tradition calls us to the

of purification, not annihilation,” he said.

We recall that after the

People Power Revolution, the

and the people did not

the

they reclaimed it.

We restored

tutions that had been desecrated by dictatorship. It would be a betrayal of that grace if, in the face of corruption today, we were to abandon democracy in favor of another shortcut — be it a revolutionary government or a civilian-military junta,” he

How to obtain custody and visitation rights for unmarried dads

Barrister’s Corner

ESTABLISHING parentage rights for Moms is a lot easier than establishing one for unmarried Dads. Moms can establish this by simply showing proof of her having given birth to the child. Family Code §7610.

Establishing parentage rights, including custody and visitation rights, becomes more problematic with unmarried Dads because proving yourself as the biological father does not automatically make you the natural father of the child. Under the family code, there are competing presumptions of paternity which allows the non biological father to be deemed the natural father of the child.

A typical situation is when boyfriend gets girlfriend pregnant. Girlfriend for some reason decides to exclude boyfriend from baby’s life so she breaks up with boyfriend, does not give the boyfriend any information about her delivery, and does not state the boyfriend as the father in the birth certificate or decides to name someone else as the father. Girlfriend does this because her parents disapprove of the ex boyfriend.

One way a presumption of Paternity is created is by executing a voluntary declaration of paternity. A Voluntary declarations executed before 1997 give rise to a conclusive presumption of paternity and can be overcome only by blood or genetic tests ordered on noticed motion by the mother or presumed father must be made within three years of the date of execution of the voluntary declaration Family.Code. § 7576; Kevin Q. v. Lauren W. (2009) 175 CA4th 1119, 1133, 95 CR3d 477, 485 If the voluntary declaration of paternity is executed after 1996, it is not characterized as a conclusive presumption. Instead, it “shall establish the paternity of a child and shall have the same force and effect as a judgment for paternity issued by a court of competent jurisdiction” and trumps §7611 presumptions discussed below. A

post 1996 voluntary declaration of paternity “shall be recognized as a basis for the establishment of an order for child custody, visitation, or child support.” Family .Code §§ 7573, 7644; Kevin Q. v. Lauren W., supra, 175 CA4th at 1132, 95 CR3d at 485; In re J.L. (2008) 159 CA4th 1010, 1019, 72 CR3d 27, 33. Another way of establishing presumed father status is if you fall under any of the categories listed

(a) to (f) under family code §7611:

(a) He and the child’s natural mother are or have been married to each other and the child is born during the marriage, or within 300 days after the marriage is terminated by death, annulment, declaration of invalidity, or divorce, or after a judgment of separation is entered by a court.

(b) Before the child’s birth, he and the child’s natural mother have attempted to marry each other by a marriage solemnized in apparent compliance with law, although the attempted marriage is or could be declared invalid, and either of the following is true:

(1) If the attempted marriage could be declared invalid only by a court, the child is born during the attempted marriage, or within 300 days after its termination by death, annulment, declaration of invalidity, or divorce.

(2) If the attempted marriage is invalid without a court order, the child is born within 300 days after the termination of cohabitation.

(c) After the child’s birth, he and the child’s natural mother have married, or attempted to marry, each other by a marriage solemnized in apparent compliance with law, although the attempted marriage is or could be declared invalid, and either of the following is true:

(1) With his consent, he is named as the child’s father on the child’s birth certificate.

(2) He is obligated to support the child under a written voluntary promise or by court order.

(d) He receives the child into his home and openly holds out the child as his natural child.

(e) If the child was born and resides in a nation with which the United States engages in an Orderly Departure Program or successor program, he acknowledges that he is the child’s father in a declaration under penalty of perjury, as specified in Section 2015.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure. This

subdivision shall remain in effect only until January 1, 1997, and on that date shall become inoperative.

(f) The child is in utero after the death of the decedent and the conditions set forth in Section 249.5 of the Probate Code are satisfied.

An alleged biological father who does not meet any of the § 7611 conditions for presumed father status has no constitutionally-protected “liberty interest” in establishing a parentage relationship with a child as against the rights of a presumptive father who has an extant parentage relationship with the child. Dawn D. v. Super.Ct. (Jerry K.) (1998) 17 C4th 932, 940–942, 72 CR2d 871, 876–877.

The facts get even more complicated if the girlfriend, whom boyfriend gets pregnant is married to another man because the law provides a conclusive presumption of paternity to the husband of the girlfriend. Under Family Code §7540, the child of a wife cohabiting at time of conception with her husband, who is not impotent or sterile, is “conclusively” presumed to be a child of the marriage. This conclusive presumption may be challenged by showing that the husband was sterile. It may also be challenged by filing a motion for blood or genetic testing under Family Code §7541 but this has to be done within 2 years of the childs birth. In addition, only persons with standing can bring this motion which is limited to the husband, child, mother and a presumed father as listed in Family Code §7611 and 7612.

Even absent a recognized rebuttal, the court has discretion as a matter of due process not to apply § 7540 conclusive presumption of paternity when it would not further the statute’s underlying policies of preserving the integrity and stability of an extant marital family, protecting children from the stigma of “illegitimacy,” and promoting individual rather than State responsibility for child support ... as where the ostensible § 7540 presumptive father never developed a parental relationship with the child and the only established parent-child relationship is with a third person. Brian C. v. Ginger K. (2000) 77 CA4th 1198, 1200–1201, 92 CR2d 294, 296; In re Kiana A. (2001) 93 CA4th 1109, 1115, 113 CR2d 669, 675.

ABOUT 90,000 individuals are diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) in the United States each year. In the Philippines, thousands of new cases are detected annually, with a prevalence of around 0.55 percent, but there are no actual data available. Globally, about 1.18 million cases of Parkinson’s are diagnosed each year.

Debilitating symptoms of PD include movement problems, like stiffness and tremors, balance issues, depression, anxiety, fatigue, pain, sleep disorders, loss of smell, speech, and swallowing difficulty.

New data from the US EPA National Air Toxic Assessment research found that “long-term exposure to high levels of the industrial degreasing chemical trichloroethylene (TCE) was associated with a 10 percent increased risk for Parkinson’s disease.”

TCE is found in 30 percent of drinking water supplies across the United States, including source-contaminated bottled water, an alarming public health hazard.

To filter out microplastics in our drinking water, I have a tabletop 4-stage water filtration system and an under-sink 7-stage reverse osmosis (with UV light) water filtration device. These units also filter out TCE and other toxic chemicals.

Unhealthy foods

People today are more health-conscious than ever. The FDA, physicians, nurses, nutritionists, and well-informed individuals around the world agree that the following items, among others, are unhealthy: bacon and other processed foods; wheat (gluten-loaded) bread; soft drinks, the sweet poison a large segment of our society are “addicted” to; French fries, this calorie-dense, saturated-fatty and salty food item is one of many that contribute to heart attack and stroke.

Healthy foods

The “good” nutritional foods include fresh and clean fish, vegetables of all colors, fruits, and nuts. Avocados (ad lib); all berries, pineapple, papaya, mangoes are, in moderation, healthy, but high in calories, which should be included in the calorie-count, especially among those with diabetes; Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil,

TCE and Parkinson’s

for salad dressing, or ingested 1 tablespoonful a day, has tremendous overall health benefits. Most of our common chronic illnesses, especially among seniors, are due to the unhealthy food items we have been eating since we were toddlers. Repeat: We are what we eat! GLP-1 and cancer

About 12 percent of adults, especially women 50-64 years of age, in the United States have used GLP-1 for diabetes and weight loss. Many are very enthusiastic about this glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RAs) to control body weight and to guard against cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The FDA has been “issuing a host of approvals for these conditions in the past few years,” because of its effectiveness and customer satisfaction. A new study posted in JAMA Oncology claims “that GLP-1 RA use could reduce overall cancer incidence by 17%.” Since this group of drugs reduces obesity, which is a great cancer risk in itself, perhaps the “cancer-reducing incidence” is due to weight reduction, and not a direct effect of these drugs as anti-cancer. Nonetheless, this finding is still most welcome news among users of GLP-1. Warning: Since there is no evidence-based data that these drugs are proven anti-cancer, those who are not obese or not diabetic should not take these drugs with the goal of lowering their risk for cancer.

Microplastics and cancer

It appears none of us is exempt from having microplastics in our brains and other organs in our bodies. A 2024 study revealed that each of us has an average of 4,806 micrograms in our brain, roughly the amount of microplastics in one plastic teaspoon. There has been a 50 percent increase from 3,057 micrograms in 2016 to the present level in 8 years.

The brains of persons with dementia have been found to contain up to 10 times microplastics than a healthy brain. Microplastics are abundantly present in our environment.

The new study shows microplastics in the gut might be contributing to the increased risk for colorectal cancer, by “increasing the acidity of gut microbes and leading to patterns similar to those linked to colorectal cancer and depression.” This finding of the impact of microplastics on our gut microbiome is preliminary and needs larger independent studies for confirmation.

Since our water supplies, including bottled water, are most contaminated with microplastics, we recommend a 5-7 stage reverse osmosis water filtration system with UVC light (countertop or under-sink). They are relatively inexpensive, cheaper than the cost of 20 packs of cigarettes, or 720 cans (2 cans a day) of soft drinks, both of which are even more poisonous to our bodies.

Our health and longevity are worth investing in, with a super-wonderful ROI. Coffee and longevity

There are many health benefits in drinking coffee (without additives like cream or sugar; cinnamon is healthy). New research shows that “drinking 3-5 cups of coffee a day is linked to longer (10 to 15 percent) life span and lower diabetes and cardiovascular risk by 15 percent.” The findings are the same for all types of coffee and for decaf as well. The 2019 meta-analysis also shows drinking coffee may decrease the risk for some cancers, like endometrial cancer, lower the risk for chronic respiratory disease mortality, and also decrease the risk for injuries and accidents. Coffee consumption also “benefits the liver and the kidneys, reduces cognitive disorders by 25 percent, and lowers depression and the risk for Parkinson’s Disease and its progression.” Consult your physicians for details.

Warning - Energy drinks Soft drinks are poison to our bodies, and energy drinks are worse. Those who consume energy drinks regularly can develop serious health problems that include rapid/irregular heart rate, anxiety, blood pressure issues, insomnia, dental problems, weight gain, diabetes, fatigue, and crashes. The NIH warns that excessive caffeine and taurine can negatively affect the heart, kidney, and liver function. Heart attacks, cardiac arrests, and deaths have been reported, attributed to energy drinks.

* * * 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.

Luxury retail’s dirty culture of cash

Now that politicians are lying low, can luxury retail survive without them?

by LaLa Singian-Serzo Inquirer.net

In our country, luxury re-

tail stores thrive not on credit cards, but on cold, hard cash. For years, high-end stores have catered to clients, many of whom are politicians, who walk in with stacks of bills to snap up shoes, jewelry, and designer bags. Some tasteful, some not so.

This culture of cash is no secret in the luxury retail industry. One fashion insider recalls what it was like when a fancy shoe brand first opened its store in Manila. “T he first thing [that] the group handling it asked for was a cash counter, ” she says. “ Politicians were going to be the biggest buyers, and they don’t swipe their cards; they bring cash .” She goes on to add how a friend, who handles an elite jewelry store, says that their staff gets nervous. “ They were scared because they thought they could get questioned. Internationally, big companies don’t allow that much cash. It can get them into trouble if they’re linked to money laundering. At the end of the day, how are the stores in the Philippines going to accept cash for their goods without being linked to money laundering?

Cash seems to suit both sides: Buyers with questionable backgrounds enjoy anonymity and ease, while retailers benefit from high-volume sales, without having to wait for card approvals or wire transfers.

Suspicious minds

But in light of recent revelations, i.e., Senate testimonies, the optics of these cash-fueled transactions are shifting.

At the Senate blue ribbon committee hearing that stirred up a storm, former Department of Public Works and Highways engineer Brice Hernandez alleged that P1 billion in cash, stuffed into more than 20 suitcases and ferried in six to seven vans, was delivered to the penthouse of former Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy Co at Shangri-La Hotel in Taguig.

There were many suitcases of money, Your Honor ,” Her-

nandez said under oath. “ I believe it amounted to billions .” Each suitcase, he added, carried roughly P50 million. Another witness, engineer Jaypee Mendoza, backed up the claim, saying the delivery went straight to the penthouse elevator.

Catching up with credit High-value and easy to move, a watch or a handbag can quickly transform dirty cash into a clean, resellable asset. How often is the Rolex store out of stock? It’s easy for a single watch to reach half a million. Meanwhile, a single Chanel handbag is sold at a prestige price of hundreds of thousands of pesos.

This is why governments in Europe and the US impose strict limits on cash transactions, requiring stores to report anything above a certain threshold. In the US, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has Form 8300, which requires businesses to report cash payments of over $10,000, specifically mentioning dealers in jewelry, automobiles, and other high-value collectibles. On the other hand, the European Union (EU) has the Anti-Money Laundering Directive & Cash Limits, which also has an EUwide limit of €10,000 on cash payments.

In New York’s LaGuardia Airport, even terminal fees can’t be paid in cash. I nearly missed my flight because they wouldn’t accept my debit card, only credit. In Paris, many boutiques won’t accept more than a few thousand euros in bills, if at all. And post-pandemic, digital payments have only become more entrenched worldwide.

By comparison, the Philippines feels caught in another time. A “banana republic” where our politicians are overlords. Cash is anonymous, fluid, and easily exchanged, which makes it all the more convenient for those with dubious sources of income.

While officially, the Philippines does have rules in place, it seems easy to work around the technicalities. The Anti-Money Laundering Act (RA 9160, as amended) requires cash transactions above P500,000 to be

reported to the Anti-Money Laundering Council, not just by banks, but also by dealers in precious metals and stones, the categories where watches and jewelry fall. Even if the amount is smaller, stores are supposed to file a Suspicious Transaction Report if something looks off.

But how often do we really think these reports are filed?

It doesn’t take a genius to see that they’re breaking up a million-peso splurge into two or three “innocent” purchases under the threshold. A watch today, a handbag tomorrow, a necklace the week after, with none of them technically hitting the reporting line. But altogether, they’re still spending the same dirty money.

So while the law exists, enforcement feels porous, and cash is still circulated by and large.

A market at risk?

In the luxury goods industry, where a polished image is everything, the optics are becoming increasingly awkward. For luxury houses that operate under global compliance standards, suitcases of cash look super shady and put them at risk of tying their brand to financial crime, too.

At least regulators are taking notice. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is now checking cash flows, monitoring unusually large cash withdrawals, with concerned banks under review. State-run Land Bank of the Philippines has also launched a probe.

So now, the hot potato: If politicians and other cash buyers start lying low under scrutiny of the entire country, could luxury retail take a hit?

While the Filipino appetite for designer goods is undeniable, the local market has leaned so heavily on the cashheavy clientele. The industry may now have to rethink how to keep tills ringing without the shadow of money laundering (and corrupt politicians) looming over pristine marble counters. So, will Philippine luxury retail adapt to tightening rules, or remain a playground where peso bills and prestige items trade through dirty hands? n

Message of Pope Leo XIV for World Mission Day 2025

DEAR Brothers and Sisters,

On World Mission Sunday every year, the whole Church prays, united, particularly for missionaries and the fruitfulness of their apostolic labors.

When I served as a missionary priest and bishop in Peru, I saw first-hand how the faith, the prayer and the generosity shown on World Mission Sunday can transform entire communities.

I urge every Catholic parish in the world to take part in World Mission Sunday. Your prayers, your support will help spread the Gospel, provide for pastoral and catechetical programs, help to build new churches, and care for the health and educational needs of our brothers and sisters in mission territories.

This October 19th, as we reflect

PH wins 6 major awards at the World Travel Awards 2025

by Camille Santiago Philstar.com

THE PHILIPPINES made it big at the recent World Travel Awards Asia and Oceania Gala 2025, winning six titles.

The country received the Asia’s Leading Island Destination award, while continuing its dominant run by taking home Asia’s Leading Dive Destination for the seventh consecutive time and Asia’s Leading Beach Destination for the eighth time.

Apart from those, Boracay Island also earned a back-to-back win as Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, while Clark Freeport Zone was named as Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination.

The Department of Tourism, on the other hand, earned the Asia’s Leading Tourist Board award.

“These awards reaffirm the

country’s place among the world’s premier destinations.

More than the recognition, this is a celebration of the people, especially our tourism frontliners—the guides, hospitality workers, weavers, boatmen, and countless others—whose warmth, hospitality, and resilience continue to inspire travelers from all over the globe,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco in a statement.

The annual gala ceremony gathered industry leaders and government officials from Asia and Oceania to honor and award excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.

Often called the Oscars of the travel industry, WTA “celebrates destinations and organizations that set the benchmark for worldclass hospitality and tourism.” n

Celebrate 10 Years of Leadership, Legacy, and Love of Service

PNASC West Los Angeles 10th Anniversary Gala

The Philippine Nurses Association of Southern California (PNASC) West Los Angeles Subchapter (PNASC WLA) under the leadership of President Diane Tupaz Roque proudly invites the community to celebrate a decade of nursing excellence, community service, and cultural pride at its 10th Anniversary Gala on Friday, November 8, 2025, at the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City.

With the theme “From Scrubs to Society and from Care to Couture: Filipino Nurses as Icons of Care, Culture, and Change,” this milestone event honors the trailblazers and members who have advanced the nursing profession while uplifting the Filipino-American community across generations.

Over the past decade, PNASC WLA has made a lasting impact through health outreach programs, mentorship and leadership development, continuing education initiatives, and community partnerships that promote wellness, advocacy, and Filipino-American representation in healthcare. The chapter continues to serve with compassion, extending care from the bedside to the broader community.

Adding glamour and artistry to the celebration, world-renowned

designer David Tupaz will present an exclusive couture fashion showcase, highlighting the creativity, grace, and global influence of Filipino talent.

“This milestone isn’t just about looking back—it’s about moving forward together,” said Diane Roque, NP, “We’re proud to celebrate Filipino nurses who bring compassion, excellence, and culture into everything they do, from care to couture.”

“PNASC WLA’s decade of service reflects the strength, unity, and heart of Filipino nurses,” added Marie Navarro, MSN,

As PNASC WLA enters its next decade, it remains committed to advancing leadership, advocacy, and unity among Filipino-American nurses, empowering them to continue shaping the future of healthcare and inspiring the next generation of leaders. Join us for an unforgettable evening of recognition, entertainment, and inspiration as we celebrate the legacy and leadership of Filipino nurses who continue to make a difference—from care to couture, and from scrubs to society.

Be part of history. Celebrate the heart of Filipino nursing. Tickets, sponsorships, and event details available at mypnasc.org or pnascwla10.com. n

LOS ANGELES

MMFF 2025 unveils 8 official entries, spotlighting new voices and returning icons

by AJPress

MANILA — The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) has announced all eight official entries for its 51st edition, promising a strong mix of fresh talent, established names, and stories that reflect the range of Filipino filmmaking. The festival opens nationwide on December 25, continuing its Christmas tradition of showcasing all-Filipino films. The final four titles include Love You So Bad, Bar Boys After School, I’m Perfect, and UnMarry. Love You So Bad, directed by Mae Cruz Alviar, features Will Ashley, Bianca de Vera, and Dustin Yu in a comingof-age love story co-produced by Star Cinema, GMA Pictures, and Regal Entertainment.

Bar Boys After School, a se-

quel to the 2017 hit, reunites the original cast under Kip Oebanda, exploring the moral and personal struggles of young lawyers.

I’m Perfect, directed by Sigrid Andrea Bernardo and produced by Nathan Studios, stars Lorna Tolentino, Sylvia Sanchez, Janice de Belen, and Zaijian Jaranilla in a moving story that promotes inclusion and awareness for persons with Down syndrome. UnMarry, from Jeffrey Jeturian and writers Chris Martinez and Therese Cayaba, features Angelica Panganiban, Zanjoe Marudo, Tom Rodriguez, Solenn Heussaff, and Eugene Domingo in a modern look at love and independence after marriage. The earlier-announced entries are Call Me Mother, Rekonek, Manila’s Finest, and Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins. Call Me Mother, directed

by Jun Robles Lana, stars Vice Ganda and Nadine Lustre in a dramedy about chosen family. Rekonek, by Jade Castro, features Carmina Villarroel, Zoren Legaspi, Gloria Diaz, and Andrea Brillantes in a family story about reconnection in the digital age. Manila’s Finest, directed by Raymond Red, stars Piolo Pascual as a conflicted law enforcer, while Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins, directed by Shugo Praico, Joey de Guzman, and Ian Loreños, revives the country’s longest-running horror anthology.

Founded in 1975, the MMFF celebrates Filipino storytelling by giving local films exclusive screening nationwide during the holidays. Organized by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), it remains both a cultural and economic pillar of the Philippine film industry.

Lea Salonga named a member of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS’ trustees

by haNNah mallorca Inquirer.net

LEA Salonga was confirmed to join the Board of Trustees of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, a nonprofit organization that raises funds for AIDS-related causes.

This was announced by Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS on its Facebook page on Friday, Oct. 10, where Salonga will be joined by Sara Bareilles, Jeff T. Daniel, Andrew Flatt, J. Harrison Ghee, Joshua Henry, John Johnson, and Greg Nobile. According to the organization’s executives, the new members of the board of trustees have long uplifted the community “through their passion and dedication.”

Their talent and diverse perspectives will be invaluable as we continue to grow Broadway Cares’ fundraising and grantmaking efforts,” said board of trustees president and The Shubert Organization chairman and CEO Robert E. Wankel.

Salonga said on Facebook

being part of the organization’s Board of Trustees is “an honor”.

Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS brings together members of the American theater community to raise funds for essential services for people living with AIDS. It initially started as two separate organizations, Equi-

ty Fights AIDS and Broadway Cares, before merging in May 1992.

Salonga, who’s currently in the U.S. for her “Stage, Screen, and Everything in Between” shows, was one of the leads in the Philippine staging of “Into the Woods” last August.

Regine Velasquez slams poor public service in PH amid high taxes

by aNNe Pasajol Inquirer.net

REGINE Velasquez once again expressed her dismay toward the Philippine government as she stressed how Filipino taxpayers do not deserve the poor public service they currently experience.

The singer-actress shared her sentiment through her Instagram page on Monday, Oct. 13 along with a video which underscored that the country is rich in natural resources but is infested with corruption. “Nung bata ako ang akala ko mahirap ang Pilipinas hindi rin nakatulong na pinanganak akong mahirap. Pero ngayon napagtatanto ko hindi tayo mahirap!! Pinahihirapan tayo!” she said. Ako po ay isang singer lamang na nagsumikap para maiahon ang aking pamilya sa hirap. Sa tulong ng ating Panginoon natulungan ko ang aking

— 32+12=44% po ng pinaghirapan ko napupunta sa gobyerno pero wala akong nakukuha kahit anong benipisyo,” she lamented. The singer further pointed out the country’s need for proper health care as well as quality education and infrastructures— which the government should have provided using the taxpayers’ money. “Hindi mahirap ang Pilipinas, sa aking palagay hinayaan nilang isipin nating mahirap ang bansa natin para hindi tayo magreklamo at para umasa na lang tayo sa mga barya barya nilang binibigay,” she stated, taking for example the relief goods that feature the photos of politicians during calamities. “I’m ranting again, I know, pero

Hilda Koronel’s Sisa enters Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival competition

by AJPress

TALLINN, ESTONIA — Philippine cinema icon Hilda Koronel marks her highly anticipated comeback in SISA, which has been officially selected for the Official Competition of the 29th Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF) in Estonia this November.

The Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival—one of only 15 FIAPF-accredited “A-list” festivals worldwide—showcases top international productions alongside Cannes, Venice, and Berlin. The selection of SISA places the Philippines in the global spotlight once again.

A long-awaited return to the screen Koronel, known for her classic performances in Insiang (1976) and Maynila sa mga Kuko ng Liwanag (1975), has been based in the United States since 2012. SISA marks her first major role in more than a decade.

The film reunites her with acclaimed director Jun Robles Lana, whose award-winning works— Bwakaw, Barber’s Tales, and About Us But Not About Us—have gained recognition in major festivals, including Tallinn.

Reimagining a tragic icon

In Lana’s new interpretation, SISA reimagines the tragic figure from José Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere against the backdrop of the Philippine–American War in 1902. The story follows a woman who feigns madness to conceal her survival and quietly plots vengeance amid the devastation of war.

The cast also includes Eugene Domingo, Jennica Garcia, Tanya Gomez, and Angellie Sanoy. Cinematography is by Carlo Mendoza, editing by Lawrence Ang, and music by Teresa Barrozo. Produced by The IdeaFirst Company, Quantum Films, October Train Films, and Cineko Productions, the project received support from the Film Development Council of the Philippines and the Film Philippines Office. Principal photography wrapped in March 2025. World premiere and global anticipation SISA will have its world premiere on November 20, 2025, at Tallinn’s Solaris Apollo Theatre.

Festival programmers have described the film as “a haunting portrait of memory and survival,” praising Koronel’s performance as “searing and timeless.”

A milestone for Philippine cinema Koronel’s return through SISA represents both a revival and a rediscovery—an artist from Philippine cinema’s golden era stepping into a new generation of storytelling. Its selection in Tallinn affirms the growing international regard for Filipino filmmakers and the enduring power of their narratives.

Velasquez-Alcasid

STEP into any café, jeepney, or TikTok scroll, and you’ll hear the unmistakable beat of K-pop.

From BTS and Blackpink to Stray Kids, Seventeen, and NewJeans, Korean pop culture has swept through the Philippines like a musical monsoon—stylish, synchronized, and unstoppable.

Spotify reports that the Philippines ranks among the world’s top five countries for K-pop streaming, with millions of daily plays. Filipino fans don’t just listen; they live the experience—learning choreography, collecting merchandise, joining fandom groups, and even celebrating idols’ birthdays as community events.

Ryan Cayabyab Singers USA Tour 2025 Why

But beyond the glitter and glamour lies a deeper question: Why does K-pop resonate so powerfully with Filipino Gen Z—and is this global obsession actually helping or harming their mental health?

The power of emotion and storytelling K-pop’s global rise is no accident. Its secret lies in emotional storytelling wrapped in audiovisual precision.

Each song is a narrative—about friendship, heartbreak, self-discovery, or resilience. Music videos unfold like short films, rich in symbolism and color.

Filipinos, known for emotional expressiveness and love for drama, easily connect with this storytelling style. It mirrors the Filipino psyche: passionate, hopeful, and resilient amid struggle.

For Gen Z navigating anxiety, academic pressure, and the loneliness of the digital age, K-pop be-

comes a safe emotional mirror—a way to feel deeply in a world that often demands numbness.

A 2023 Frontiers in Psychology study found that fans often form “para-social relationships” with their idols one-sided bonds that, surprisingly, can provide comfort and emotional support.

When K-pop groups speak openly about mental health, selfworth, or burnout, young fans feel validated. Idols like RM of BTS, who openly discuss therapy and self-doubt, have become unlikely role models for emotional honesty. Discipline that inspires Behind the flawless performances are years of disciplined training. K-pop artists undergo rigorous preparation—often eight to 10 years of daily practice in dance, vocals, and media behavior.

To Filipino Gen Z raised in a culture of high expectations, this discipline is both intimidating and inspiring. It counters the myth of instant fame and teaches that success demands grit, consistency, and teamwork.

This can have a positive mental effect: the belief that effort matters—a healthy antidote to the helplessness many youths feel in uncertain times. As one Filipino fan put it, “K-pop reminds me that even perfection is practiced.”

However, the flip side is comparison. Idol culture’s obsession with beauty and achievement can fuel body image issues and selfdoubt. When fans idealize unattainable perfection, admiration can turn into quiet inadequacy. Like caffeine, K-pop can energize—but over-consumption may leave one restless.”

“K-pop can calm the storm — but it should never become the shelter we never leave.

The digital dimension: community as coping For Filipino Gen Z—the world’s most active social media users—K-pop is not just music; it’s belonging. Fandoms like ARMY (BTS fans) and Blinks (BLACKPINK fans) are highly organized online families.

They run donation drives, organize “cup sleeve” events in cafés, and collaborate across continents to “stream” songs and boost global rankings.

During the pandemic, these fandoms became mental health lifelines. A De La Salle University study in 2022 found that online fan communities helped young people cope with isolation, giving them purpose and connection when physical friendships were impossible.

Digital belonging, when grounded in empathy, can be therapeutic. But constant online engagement also has its mental toll. The pressure to stay updated—to stream, post, or defend idols in fan wars—can trigger stress and digital fatigue. Like all relationships, para-social ones require boundaries.

Shared values and cultural comfort

Part of K-pop’s appeal lies in its cultural resonance. Korean values—respect for elders, humility, discipline, and family loyalty— echo Filipino ideals. Even the language feels emotionally familiar; fans often say, “I don’t understand every word, but I feel every emotion.”

In a region where Western culture has long dominated, K-pop offers representation that feels closer to home—Asian faces on global stages, proving that talent transcends borders. For many Filipino youths, seeing Asian artists conquer the world boosts both pride and possibility.

Aesthetic escapism in an anxious world

K-pop offers what psychologists call “controlled escapism”—a harmless mental vacation. In a nation where daily realities include traffic, inflation, graft and corruption, and uncertainty, K-pop’s perfection—synchronized dance, immaculate visuals, and hopeful lyrics—becomes a form of emo-

THE highly anticipated Ryan Cayabyab Singers — U.S. Tour 2025, presented by Music Arts Events Inc., is set to make waves across the country with a powerful fusion of world-class music and community impact. This landmark tour brings the legendary National Artist for Music, Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, and his electrifying vocal ensemble to key cities including Santa Clara/ San Jose, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Honolulu.

Known for their exceptional harmony and inventive arrangements, the Ryan Cayabyab Singers will light up the stage with a dynamic showcase of songs that include Original Pilipino Music (OPM), celebrating Filipino creativity on a global platform.

The Los Angeles concert will be on November 1 at 6pm, and the grounds open at 4:30pm for vendors. The venue is PazNaz at 3700 E Sierra Madre Blvd, Pasadena 91107 (First Church of the Nazarene). Parking is free.

The Ryan Cayabyab Singers will be joined by Annie Nepomuceno, the San Gabriel Chorale and Orchestra, and the Masterclass students, who are getting the full experience of not just learning from the Maestro, but sharing the stage with him.

What sets this tour apart is its heart: it’s the only Filipino concert tour of its kind that weaves community engagement into every stop. Alongside the performances, Maestro Cayabyab will lead educational workshops In the Bay Area, Los Angeles, and Hawaii, designed to uplift local youth, choirs, and cultural organizations.

in 2013

His musical output consists of masses, award winning film and television scores, short symphonic works, a dozen fulllength Filipino musicals, a major opera, full length ballets, solo and instrumental works, three one-man a cappella song albums, and scores of popular songs sung by top Filipino recording artists.

He has won countless awards from the film, television and recording industries, aside from winning in international music festivals as composer, music director, record producer/arranger, and television host.

He is currently a trustee of the Philpop Musicfest Foundation; and sits in the board of trustees of two national orchestras; and the President of The Music School of Ryan Cayabyab, now on its 39th year.

The Ryan Cayabyab Singers Blending legacy and fresh talent for a sound that’s unmistakably Filipino, but undoubtedly world-class.

Since 2007, the Ryan Cayabyab Singers (RCS) have captivated audiences with their powerhouse vocals, dynamic stage presence, and unmistakable harmony. Handpicked by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab himself, RCS was born out of a vision: a group of standout soloists, each with their own unique flair, coming together to create a unified, electrifying sound.

brations, thanks to their precision, heart, and professionalism. With nearly 2 decades’ worth of concerts and tours, this is the group’s 4th USA Tour with Music Arts Events, Inc.

As they continue to evolve, one thing remains constant: their commitment to honoring the Maestro’s vision while adding their own voices to the growing legacy of Filipino music.

How To Get Tickets Visit www.musicartsevents. com for online sales or text (818) 438-1943 for faster service. Other numbers are Henry (818) 612-4500, Monica (818) 726-6333, and Roselyn (818) 618-3207.

Produced by Music Arts Events Inc, Tang and Java and JIR Foundation and endorsed by the Philippine Consulate General of Los Angeles for its cultural significance.

This is more than a concert— it’s a movement to inspire, educate, and unite audiences through the power of Filipino music and mentorship. Whether you’re a lifelong OPM fan or discovering it for the first time, this tour is an invitation to witness cultural excellence—and be part of shaping its future.

PROFILES

Maestro Ryan Cayabyab Ryan Cayabyab has been hailed as the Maestro of Philippine contemporary music. At home with any genre, Cayabyab continues to excel as a composer of the eclectic, the modern, and popular music. He was conferred by the Philippine government in 2018 to the Order of National Artist for Music, the highest artistic award given to a Filipino citizen; a laureate of the Ramon Magsaysay Awards in 2019; he was also awarded in 1978 as one of TOYM (Ten Outstanding Young Men) of the Philippines, and in 2004, a Gawad CCP awardee for music. He emerged as the only Asian winner of the 2001 Onassis International Cultural Competitions in Greece for his composition MISA 2000. Ryan also received a Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice award from the Pope

Today, the group continues to evolve—with a lineup that fuses the depth of seasoned performers and the spark of new-generation voices. Whether on a grand concert stage or in an intimate corporate setting, RCS delivers performances that celebrate excellence, versatility, and the joy of music.

The RCS Experience RCS is known for their genre-defying versatility. From classic Cayabyab originals to iconic OPM medleys, from a fully choreographed Motown revue to an exclusively-staged rock-opera — this seven-member ensemble brings every performance to life with passion and polish. Over the years, they’ve ventured into musical theatre and dance-infused productions, proving time and again that their artistry knows no bounds.

A Global Celebration of Filipino Music

With performances across the US, Canada, UK, Germany, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, and more, RCS proudly carries the banner of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) on the world stage. From landmark tours to cultural showcases like Philippine Tapestry, their international appearances reflect a shared purpose: to uplift Filipino artistry and share its richness with the world.

Rooted in Excellence, Ready for What’s Next RCS remains a sought-after name for live events and cele-

Sponsored by Island Pacific, Philippine Airlines, Tulong Ko Pasa Mo, TFC The Filipino Channel, SoCal Filipinos, Manila Inasal, CN Law Offices, Auntie Dees’, Lucky Brides, Grace Palliative Care, Barry Libed Realtor and Nurse, Oasis Beauty and Wellness Spa, LA United Home Health Inc, Monet Salon, Starlink Promotions, Noble Creations, Lou Razon, Luigi Sound and Light, San Fernando Masonic Lodge, JollyBox. Community Partners are the University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Greater Los Angeles, Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Greater LA, Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Pasadena, Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of South Bay-LA.

*******************

PROFILE

MEDIUM

The Ryan Cayabyab Singers (RCS) is a powerhouse vocal ensemble formed by National Artist for Music, Ryan Cayabyab. Since 2007, this seven-member group has wowed audiences both in the Philippines and abroad with their unmatched blend of voices, stage presence, and versatility.

Made up of both seasoned performers and brilliant new voices, RCS brings a fresh yet familiar energy to every performance, whether they’re singing Original Pilipino Music, classic standards, or pop tunes.

With successful international tours, award-winning albums, and standout appearances in cultural showcases, RCS continues to represent the best of Filipino music with humility, excellence, and heart.

SHORT PROFILE

The Ryan Cayabyab Singers (RCS) is a seven-member vocal group known for their world-class harmony, powerful solos, and vibrant performances. Formed by National Artist Ryan Cayabyab, they represent a blend of seasoned talent and rising stars, delivering the richness of Filipino music to audiences around the world.

Aljur Abrenica declines to confirm reports of children with AJ Raval

by AJPress

ACTOR Aljur Abrenica has declined to confirm or elaborate on persistent reports that he and actress AJ Raval have two children together, choosing instead to keep the matter private.

In a recent interview, Abrenica responded briefly to veteran actor Jeric Raval’s earlier statement claiming that the pair already share two children. Abrenica said he respects AJ’s father but is “not yet ready” to discuss the issue publicly. He also asked for understanding from the public, noting that certain matters in his life are best kept within the family.

Earlier, when pressed by reporters about the same topic, Abrenica maintained his previous denial, saying, “Wala po,” in response to questions about whether he and Raval have children. AJ Raval has also denied previous rumors of pregnancy or childbirth involving Abrenica.

As of this writing, no official documents, public statements, or independent verification substantiate claims that the couple has children. Both Abrenica and

have reiterated their wish for privacy as they continue to

Christophe Bariou reveals P50-million extortion attempt involving him and Nadine Lustre

by AJPress

MANILA — French-Filipino

entrepreneur Christophe Bariou, partner of actress Nadine Lustre, has claimed that the couple was the target of a ₱50-million extortion attempt linked to their opposition to the controversial Union–Malinao Bridge project in Siargao.

Bariou said that before the local elections, individuals allegedly posing as representatives of certain politicians approached them and offered to “resolve” issues surrounding the bridge project in exchange for P50 million in cash. When they refused, he said, they began facing what he described as retaliatory actions — including surprise inspections, delays in business-permit renewals, and unauthorized soil testing on their property by unidentified government personnel.

He further alleged that the bridge project lacked a required Environmental Impact Assessment and that its budget had ballooned from P144 million to P500 million after Typhoon Odette. Bariou has filed complaints with the Anti-Red Tape Authority, the Office of the Ombudsman, and the Supreme Court, citing irregularities and the alleged misuse of environmental and tourism fees.

On Instagram, Bariou condemned what he called “deep-rooted corruption,” writing: “We don’t make deals with corruption — ever.” He also urged DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon and national agencies to investigate questionable infrastructure projects on Siargao Island.

As of press time, local officials or the individuals implicated in the alleged extortion attempt have not issued public statements. The revelations have reignited public concern over corruption in local development projects and environmental oversight in tourist areas. Advocates say the case underscores the need for stronger transparency, accountability, and protection for whistleblowers who expose irregularities in government-funded works.

Why Coco Martin doesn’t see himself doing K-drama adaptations

by haNNah mallorca Inquirer.net

COCO Martin revealed that he received offers to do Philippine adaptations of K-dramas, but declined them, saying he would rather focus on boosting our own entertainment industry.

Martin admitted that he is not a fan of K-dramas in a media con for his joint venture with filmmaker Erik Matti and film producer Dondon Monteverde. Ang nasa isip namin ay buhayin ang pelikulang Pilipino… alam niyo po ba merong projects na ino-offer sa’kin na bakit hindi ka mag-remake ng Korean [drama], sabi ko, hindi ko sinasabi na [ayaw ko], hindi lang ako fan. Nanghihinayang kasi ako sa talento ng mga Pilipino,” he said. (What we have in mind is to keep Filipino films alive. Did you know that I received offers to do remakes of Korean dramas? It’s not like I don’t want to do them. I’m just not a fan of them. I feel like Filipino talents may go to waste.) The actor-director stressed that the Philippine entertainment industry has a lot to offer in terms of storytelling and culture. Napakaraming kwento, napakaganda ng kultura ng Pilipino, napakarami pa natin pwedeng i-share sa buong mundo,” he said. “So kung gagawa akong proyekto, dapat gawang akin, ‘yung orihinal, ‘yung ipagmamalaki. Kasi kung sakaling sumikat ang teleserye, alam nating gawang atin ‘yun.” (There are a lot of stories. Fili-

pino culture is so beautiful. There are still a lot of things to share with the world. So, if I must do a project, it needs to be my own. It needs to be original. Because if a teleserye gets famous, we know it is ours.)

More films about our national heroes Since Martin is set to star as Andres Bonifacio in the upcoming film “Maypagasa: The Battles of Andres Bonifacio,” the actor expressed his support for the film “Quezon,” a biopic of the second Philippine president, Manuel L. Quezon.  With this in mind, he believes that more films should be made about the country’s historical figures.

“Natutuwa ako sa success ng ‘Quezon’ kasi dapat natin ginugunita ito. Dapat lahat ng mga bata, pinag-aaralan ang history at kultura natin. Minsan naka-

tional regulation. The colors, choreography, and cinematic music videos trigger dopamine release and reduce stress. It’s not unlike meditation—rhythmic, repetitive, and emotionally transporting.

Still, it’s escapism, not cure.

When it replaces real relationships or sleep, it stops being refuge and becomes avoidance. Balance remains key: K-pop can calm the storm but should not become the shelter we never leave.

The mental health equation: help or harm?

So—is K-pop good for mental health?

The answer, like any medicine, is dose-dependent.

Positive effects:

• Emotional validation. Lyrics and interviews that normalize sadness, failure, and recovery.

• Community belonging. Fandoms foster social connection and reduce loneliness.

• Creative expression. Many fans dance, sing, and create art, channeling emotion into productivity.

• Hope and optimism.Success stories of idols inspire perseverance and resilience.

Risks and cautions:

• Unrealistic comparison. Idol perfection can trigger low self-esteem or disordered eating.

• Over-identification.Excessive devotion may lead to emotional dependency or detachment from reality.

• Financial stress. Concerts, merchandise, and “fan projects” can become compulsive spending.

• Sleep loss and fatigue. Latenight streaming and social media participation contribute to poor rest—a common theme in my own

cardiology practice. In short: K-pop can heal or harm depending on how it’s used—as inspiration or as escape, as connection or as obsession.

Encouraging moderation and balance

For parents and mentors puzzled by the K-pop phenomenon, the key is not to judge but to understand. This isn’t “just music.” It’s a generational language of emotion, creativity, and belonging. Instead of scolding youth for being “too obsessed,” guide them to balance passion with presence.

Encourage moderation: enjoy the music, celebrate the artistry, but don’t lose sleep—literally or metaphorically—over it.

And for Gen Z themselves:

Remember that your idols may inspire you, but your worth is not measured by fandom activity. Even your favorite artist rests. Even perfection rehearses peace.

A cardiologist’s reflection

As a physician, I often meet young people who come with palpitations, anxiety, or sleeplessness—many fueled by digital overstimulation, late-night scrolling, and caffeinated lifestyles. But when we talk, I find that what they truly seek is meaning, not medication.

K-pop, at its best, provides a spark of joy, a rhythm of community, and an outlet for emotional honesty. It can soothe the anxious heart—if it’s not allowed to overstimulate it. Like music itself, the key is tempo: Enjoy the beat, but remember to rest between songs. Is K-pop good for mental health?

K-pop’s hold on Filipino Gen Z is both cultural and emotional—a mirror of their search for connection, beauty, and purpose in an increasingly chaotic world.

It is not just about catchy tunes or glamorous idols. It is about identity—finding voice, comfort, and courage through shared sound.

So is it good for their mental health?

When enjoyed mindfully, yes— profoundly so. It builds community, self-expression, and hope. But when consumed compulsively, it becomes noise drowning out the heart’s true rhythm. Perhaps, in the end, K-pop’s greatest gift is not escape, but empathy—a reminder that across languages and borders, we all move to the same beat: the universal longing to be seen, understood, and loved.

kaligtaan na ito, kung paano na tayo bilang Pilipino (I am happy to see the success of “Quezon,” and we have to celebrate it. The children need to learn more about our history and culture. We sometimes forget this, and why we become the Filipinos we are today),” he said. The “Batang Quiapo” star reiterated that history needs to be taught through films as well.

Kailangan natin malaman ang ating history at kung paano tayo nagsimula, sino ang mga bayani natin, lalo na sa nangyayari ngayon, sa politics natin ngayon (We need to know our history and how we started, who are our heroes, especially with what’s happening now in our current political landscape),” he said. Aside from the 2027 film, Martin is set to star in “On the Job: Maghari,” a prequel of the “On the Job” film series.