102425 - New York and New Jersey Edition

DATELINE USA

USCIS launches new U.S. citizenship test

Applicants filing after Oct. 20 face longer, tougher civics exam

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has officially launched a new version of the U.S. citizenship civics test, which took effect on October 20, 2025, for applicants filing their Form N-400 on or after that date. The new exam is part of the agency’s broader effort to “enhance the consistency, integrity, and fairness” of the naturalization process.

USCIS launched a new U.S. citizenship civics test on October 20, 2025, featuring 20 oral questions from a 128-question bank and a higher passing threshold. The change marks the most significant update to the naturalization exam in nearly a decade and affects all applicants moving forward.

Under the new guidelines, applicants will answer up to 20 oral civics questions randomly drawn from a 128-question study bank. To pass, they must answer 12 questions correctly. Interviewers will stop once the applicant either passes or fails, based on those thresholds. The English reading, writing, and speaking portions of the interview remain unchanged.

u PAGE 4

DPWH files graft, malversation cases as ICI probe widens

Dizon says agency is providing full support to independent commission

by AJPress

Leylah Fernandez claims her fifth career title at the Japan Open

Leylah Fernandez, the Filipina-EcuadorianCanadian tennis star, wins her fifth career WTA title at the Japan Open in Osaka after a three-set victory over Czech teenager Tereza Valentova

by AJPress

from Montreal, known for her fiery competitiveness and calm under pressure, secured her second title of the 2025 season, following her earlier triumph at the Washington D.C. Open. The win elevates her to world No. 22 and reestablishes her as Canada’s top-ranked women’s player, surpassing compatriot Victoria Mboko.

OSAKA, Japan  — Canadian tennis star Leylah Annie Fernandez, captured her fifth career WTA singles title at the 2025 Kinoshita Group Japan Open in Osaka after defeating 18-yearold Czech qualifier Tereza Valentova in a thrilling three-set final, 6-0, 5-7, 6-3. The 23-year-old left-hander u PAGE 3

Lacson to reassume Senate Blue Ribbon chairmanship in November, Sotto confirms

Senate President Vicente Sotto III confirms that Senator Panfilo Lacson will reassume the Blue Ribbon Committee chairmanship on November 10, with Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano pledging cooperation as the committee resumes its flood-control probe.

by

and Highways (DPWH) has filed criminal and administrative complaints for malversation of public funds and graft against officials and contractors allegedly involved in irregular flood control projects, Secretary Vince Dizon announced on Thursday, October 23.

ability of Public Officers and Investigations (commonly known as the Blue Ribbon Committee) when the Senate reconvenes on Monday, November 10, 2025.

described Lacson’s return

“Nag-file na kami ng kaso at magsisimula na

ICC rejects Duterte’s jurisdiction challenge

by Cristina Chi Philstar.com

MANILA — The International Criminal Court has ruled that it has the jurisdiction to prosecute former President Rodrigo Duterte for alleged crimes against humanity, rejecting his argument that the Philippines' withdrawal from the Rome Statute in 2018 stripped the ICC's authority over the case.

This defeats the Duterte camp's main legal attempt to prevent an actual trial from taking place — leaving only the question of whether the former president, who has been held at The Hague since March, is fit to stand trial.

In a ruling released Thursday, October 23, the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I unanimously dis-

Trillanes files plunder and graft raps vs Duterte, Bong Go over alleged P7-B infrastructure awards

Trillanes, as a private citizen, files plunder and graft raps vs Duterte and Go over alleged P7B DPWH projects; Go welcomes probe.

by

MANILA — Former senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV, acting as a private citizen, filed plunder and graft complaints before the Office of the Ombudsman on October 21, u PAGE 4

DPWH files graft, malversation cases...

PAGE 1

rin kami ng dismissal proceedings against them… DPWH is here to support the ICI, we are the ones providing the documents, all the information, especially on ghost projects,” Dizon told reporters. (“We have already filed cases and will begin dismissal proceedings against them… The DPWH is here to support the ICI; we are the ones providing documents and all information, especially on ghost projects.”)

“Ang napagkasunduan namin, ‘pag itong mga proyektong ito makikita natin to be either ghost or substandard, ang DPWH po will be filing the verified complaint para po mas mapabilis ‘yung proseso.” (“We have agreed that if these projects are found to be ghost or substandard, the DPWH will file the verified complaint to speed up the process.”)

Dizon said the agency is working closely with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), created by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in September 2025 through Executive Order No. 94, to investigate questionable infrastructure projects nationwide. He added that the DPWH is providing the ICI with project records, inspection reports, and engineering data to verify the existence and quality of thousands of flood-control works.

22 individuals charged before Ombudsman

The complaints, jointly filed by Dizon and ICI chairman retired Justice Andres Reyes Jr., were submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman against 22 individuals, comprising DPWH officials and private contractors, linked to flood-control proj-

ects in La Union and Davao Occidental.

Official filings cite violations of Republic Act 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, and Articles 217 and 220 of the Revised Penal Code on malversation of public funds.

Documents submitted to the Ombudsman show that the projects under investigation are valued at about P276 million in combined allocations:

• Two La Union flood-control phases valued at roughly P89.7 million each, and

• Several Davao Occidental projects worth about P96.5 million, which the DPWH described as non-existent or substandard based on validation reports.

At least 21 DPWH officials and two contractors were identified in the consolidated complaint, including St. Timothy Construction Corporation.

The DPWH said it is withholding the names of the officials pending the Ombudsman’s formal action.

Dizon confirmed that administrative dismissal proceedings have begun for personnel who approved or implemented the questioned contracts. The department also sought assistance from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to check potential conflicts of interest among senior officials.

Partnership with the ICI

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure was tasked to conduct a nationwide audit of government construction projects and recommend reforms to prevent irregularities. Within its first month, the ICI identified more than 400 flood-control projects for detailed inspection out

of nearly 8,000 reviewed.

Reyes said the commission will begin livestreaming hearings next week to allow public monitoring of its proceedings. He noted that the ICI, still in its early operational phase, is refining technical protocols and consolidating data from the DPWH, Commission on Audit, and regional offices.

Accountability and next steps

Dizon said the DPWH’s latest actions reflect its commitment to accountability and transparency in public works.

“The department’s role is to ensure that projects exist, are built according to standards, and that any anomaly is addressed through proper legal channels,” he said.

The flood-control controversy has drawn national attention amid reports of “ghost” projects—declared complete but found to be non-existent— and substandard construction. Both the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee and the ICI are conducting separate but coordinated inquiries.

Under Philippine law, public officials found guilty of graft or malversation face dismissal from service, perpetual disqualification from public office, and imprisonment.

Observers noted that the DPWH-ICI coordination marks a shift toward institutional accountability, emphasizing documentation, evidence-based verification, and due process.

As the ICI prepares to open its hearings, the DPWH’s cooperation is seen as critical to restoring confidence in the government’s infrastructure program and ensuring that public funds are used for genuine, functional projects that benefit communities. n

ICC rejects Duterte’s jurisdiction...

1

missed Duterte's legal challenge, finding that the ICC prosecutor's preliminary examination launched in February 2018 — before the Philippines' withdrawal took effect — was sufficient to preserve the court's jurisdiction over Duterte's alleged crimes.

The chamber "finds that the Court can exercise its jurisdiction in the present case over the crimes alleged against Mr Duterte that were committed on the territory of the Philippines while it was a State Party," the decision read.

The chamber had determined that the Philippines' withdrawal from the treaty that governs the ICC "shall not [...] prejudice in any way the continued consideration of any matter which was already under consideration by the Court prior to the date on which the withdrawal became effective."

Legal battle over withdrawal

The ruling centers on whether the Philippines' withdrawal from the Rome Statute — which took effect March 17, 2019, one year after Manila deposited notification — severed the court's jurisdiction over crimes allegedly committed on Philippine territory.

Duterte's defense team argued the ICC lost jurisdiction when the chamber authorized the investigation in September 2021, more than two years after the withdrawal became effective. They contended that Article 12(2) of the statute requires a state to be a party "at the time that the Court exercises its jurisdiction."

The defense further argued that a preliminary examination was too informal to constitute a matter "under consideration by the Court," describing it as "internal, informal and non-justiciable" and potentially constituted by "even the most mundane acts."

The chamber firmly rejected those arguments, finding that preliminary examinations are "a statutory process which is a necessary precondition to seeking authorisation for the commencement of an investigation" regulated by Article 15 of the Rome Statute and rules 46-50 of the court's procedural rules.

"The preliminary examination is not 'too informal in nature' to encompass a matter that is 'under consideration' by the Court," the decision

stated.

'Direct relationship' to withdrawal

The ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I also took note of the "direct relationship" between thenICC Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda's announcement of a preliminary examination in February 2018 and the Philippine government's subsequent decision to withdraw from the Rome Statute — a decision that was done by then-President Duterte.

That announcement of the preliminary examination had explicitly stated that it would look into the crimes committed by Duterte since at least July 2016 in the context of the "war on drugs" campaign.

The Philippines deposited its withdrawal notification on March 17, 2018, just over a month later.

Media reports at the time cited Duterte calling ICC and UN scrutiny of his drug war campaign as "outrageous attacks."

"This apparent action to avoid compliance with the Statute is what article 127 of the Statute, read as a whole, is designed to prevent," the decision read.

The court found that interpreting the statute to allow withdrawal to shield crimes already under examination "would be entirely against that object and purpose" and "go directly against the object and purpose" of preventing states from evading justice.

Scope of court's authority

The ruling established that the term "the Court" in Article 127(2) includes the Office of the Prosecutor, one of four organs of the ICC alongside the judicial divisions, the Presidency and the Registry.

The chamber noted that the same sentence in Article 127(2) states withdrawal "shall not affect any cooperation with the Court in connection with criminal inves-

tigations and proceedings," cooperation that includes requests by the prosecutor.

"It is the Prosecution that would be expected to be considering matters that form the subject-matter of preliminary examinations and investigations," the decision stated.

The ICC found that preliminary examinations can involve substantive judicial decisions, protection measures for victims and witnesses under Article 68(1), public announcements, and what the prosecution described as "an active and focused inquiry leading to a specific legal conclusion."

Balancing withdrawal rights and accountability

The chamber acknowledged that ordinarily, once a state's withdrawal becomes effective, it is "no longer bound by the Statute's jurisdictional provisions." Allowing jurisdiction decades after withdrawal would "fundamentally undermine the right of a State to withdraw."

However, Article 127(2) "appropriately balances the right of a State to withdraw from the Statute with the overall objective of the Statute of putting an end to impunity," the ruling stated.

The court emphasized that its finding does not mean every preliminary examination would preserve jurisdiction, noting that "each situation will need to be analyzed on its merits" and must be "approached with utmost caution to avoid any abuse."

The confirmation of charges hearing has been postponed pending resolution of questions about Duterte's fitness to stand trial.

Duterte is facing three counts of crimes against humanity of murder over the brutal and deadly "war on drugs" during his presidency and the years he was mayor of Davao City. n

CMS: No broad pause in Medicare payments; limited claim holds continue

by AJPress

WASHINGTON — Federal health officials said there is no broad pause in Medicare payments to physicians, clarifying that reimbursements are continuing within the normal 14-day payment window even as the government shutdown persists.

On October 15, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued initial guidance suggesting that all Medicare claims for services rendered after October 1 might be held because certain legislative authorizations had lapsed. The agency later revised that guidance, explaining that only select claims tied to expired provisions — such as some telehealth and rural-care programs — are be-

ing temporarily held pending congressional renewal.

In its updated statement, CMS said that “to date, no payments have been delayed,” noting that all Medicare Administrative Contractors are still operating under the statutory 14-day “payment floor” for processing electronic claims. Under federal law, contractors must hold claims for at least 14 days before release, which the agency emphasized is standard procedure.

Medical groups including the American Medical Association and the Texas Medical Association said they are monitoring for any payment problems and have circulated CMS updates to members.

Specialty-society advisories add that limited holds

are a routine safeguard when congressional “extender” programs expire, preventing large-scale reprocessing if lawmakers later reauthorize them. Current categories affected include select Physician Fee Schedule claims impacted by expired provisions, ground ambulance services, and federally qualified health center claims. Providers may continue submitting claims, with payment for held categories to resume once funding authority is restored.

Industry analysts note that even short administrative holds can strain smaller medical practices that depend on steady reimbursements, but no system-wide interruption in Medicare payments has been reported as of Thursday. n

Leylah Fernandez claims her fifth career title...

PAGE 1

Dominance, grit, and grace on display

Fernandez opened the final with authority, storming through the first set 6-0 in less than 30 minutes. Valentova, one of the tour’s most promising teenagers, struck back in the second set, capitalizing on brief lapses from Fernandez to force a decider.

In the third set, Fernandez broke early and never looked back, sealing victory in just over two hours — a testament to her stamina, patience, and tactical maturity.

“First of all, congratulations, Tereza — you played amazing,” Fernandez said during her trophy speech. “Thank you to my team for suffering with me this past week, past month, and past year. Without your sacrifices and support, I wouldn’t be here today.”

Her heartfelt message drew applause from the Osaka crowd, many of whom have followed her journey since her breakout run to the 2021 U.S. Open final.

A proud multicultural identity

Born in Montreal, Quebec, Leylah is the daughter of Jorge Fernandez, a former Ecuadorian soccer player who now serves as her coach, and Irene Exevea Fernandez, a Canadian of Filipino descent from Cavite.

The tennis prodigy often credits her parents’ immigrant values of hard work, humility, and resilience for

shaping her character. “My mom’s Filipino side taught me to stay kind and grounded no matter how big the stage,” she shared in an earlier interview.

Her heritage – Filipino through her mother, Ecuadorian through her father, and Canadian by birth – has made her a beloved figure across three continents. Filipino fans, in particular, take pride in seeing her raise the Philippines profile in the sport alongside Canada’s whenever she competes in Asia.

A victory that strengthens Asia’s tennis spotlight

The Japan Open, a WTA 250 event held at Osaka’s Utsubo Tennis Center, has long been a proving ground for emerging champions. Fernandez’s triumph reinforces the tournament’s growing prestige and highlights Asia’s role as a vibrant hub for world-class

Lacson to reassume Senate Blue Ribbon...

as “100 percent certain,” saying committee members are set to meet ahead of or immediately after the break to formalize his re-election.

Lacson’s October resignation occurred amid probe tensions

Lacson stepped down as Blue Ribbon chair in early October, submitting a letter dated October 7, 2025, after expressing frustration with how the committee’s inquiry into alleged irregularities in flood-control projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) was being handled.

In his statement released on October 5, he said he was stepping down “out of respect for the sentiments of some colleagues.” Sotto later clarified that the resignation was not aimed at preserving the Senate leadership.

During the interim, Senator Erwin Tulfo, the committee vice-chair, served as acting chair.

Minority bloc pledges cooperation under Lacson’s leadership

Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano pledged support for Lacson’s return,

saying the minority bloc will work with him “in the spirit of cooperation and transparency.”

He emphasized that the minority will not be drawn into majority internal leadership battles and that “what matters is that the direction of the inquiry is clear and the process remains fair.”

Committee to resume flood-control probe under Lacson’s chairmanship

The Blue Ribbon Committee—tasked with investigating alleged public-official wrongdoing in aid of legislation— has been probing contracts tied to flood-control infrastructure, which have drawn scrutiny for suspected implementation and accountability gaps.

Sotto said the panel will resume hearings when Lacson is re-elected chair.

He added that the committee will coordinate with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), which has announced plans to livestream its proceedings to bolster transparency.

As the Senate resumes on November 10, the Blue Ribbon Committee is expected to hold its first post-recess meet-

ing to formally elect Lacson as chair, after which subsequent hearings will include DPWH officials, contractors, and auditors.

Lacson earlier clarified his goal is to recommend structural and policy reforms, not target criminal prosecutions, and that any accountability findings will be forwarded to the Office of the Ombudsman and the Commission on Audit. Senate reorganization under Sotto

Sotto, elected Senate President on September 8, 2025, initiated a reorganization of key committee leaderships, including the Blue Ribbon chairmanship. Before Lacson’s recent tenure and resignation, the chairmanship had been held by Senator Rodante Marcoleta earlier in the 20th Congress. A recent fact-check confirmed Marcoleta is not returning as chair.

Under Senate rules, the committee comprises members with a chair and vicechair elected at the start of each session. Sotto said Lacson’s reinstatement would help maintain the continuity and credibility of the Senate’s oversight role. n

For runner-up Tereza Valentova, the week marked a career milestone – reaching her maiden WTA final after a string of strong wins over higher -ranked opponents.

A champion with momentum

With her Osaka title, Fernandez builds crucial momentum heading into the final stretch of the WTA season. Analysts expect her to make deeper runs in the upcoming high-tier events and return to the top 20 soon. Beyond rankings, however, Fernandez continues to represent something deeper – a multicultural athlete who embodies discipline, gratitude, and perseverance. Her success story bridges continents and cultures, reminding young athletes everywhere that excellence thrives where identity is embraced. n

Trillanes files plunder and graft raps...

PAGE 1

2025, against former president Rodrigo Duterte and senator Christopher “Bong” Go over nearly P7 billion in alleged government infrastructure awards to construction firms owned by Go’s father and brother.

Also named as respondents were Deciderio Lim Go and Alfredo Armero Go, Go’s father and brother, respectively. Trillanes said the firms CLTG Builders and Alfrego Builders cornered contracts from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) over several years. He filed the case under Republic Acts 7080 (plunder), 3019 (anti-graft), and 6713 (code of conduct and ethical standards), which empower any citizen to report alleged public-official misconduct to the Ombudsman.

Complaint cites COA, DPWH data

According to the complaint, CLTG Builders— owned by Go’s father— and Alfrego Builders—owned by his brother—secured about P6.95 billion in DPWH projects from the late 2000s through the Duterte administration. Trillanes also cited a joint venture between CLTG Builders and St. Gerrard Construction, owned by the Discaya family, which allegedly received another P816 million in contracts from 2016 to 2022.

The complaint references Commission on Audit (COA) and DPWH records covering nearly 200 projects in the Davao region. Trillanes claimed these transactions violated conflict-of-interest and anti-graft provisions that prohibit public officials and their relatives from benefiting from government contracts.

He described Go as a “central figure” in the alleged transactions and Duterte as the approving authority both during his term as Davao City

mayor and later as president. Go: “Culprits should be held liable”

Sen. Go denied any wrongdoing and welcomed an investigation. “Now that it’s with the Ombudsman, there is COA…. If there were irregularities in these projects, sue the people involved…. Culprits should be held liable,” he said in Filipino, adding that he would support accountability “even against my own family members” if proven guilty. Go also said he has “no connections” with the Discayas or their flood-control projects.

Ombudsman investigation process

Under the law, the Ombudsman may evaluate the complaint, require counter-affidavits from the respondents, and subpoena COA and DPWH records. If probable cause is found, it can file cases before the Sandiganbayan. R.A. 7080 defines plunder as accumulating at least P50 million in ill-gotten wealth through a combination of overt acts, while R.A. 3019 and R.A. 6713 penalize graft and conflicts of interest

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.

structure 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.

by public officials.

Trillanes emphasized that he filed the case as an ordinary citizen, not in any official capacity, saying the evidence he presented was sourced from public documents and COA reports. The Ombudsman Act allows “any person” to report alleged acts of corruption.

Flood-control contracts under scrutiny

Media reports citing the complaint noted that flood-control and road-widening projects in Davao were among those awarded to the firms. COA data reportedly show CLTG Builders winning 125 DPWH contracts from 2007 to 2018, and Alfrego Builders dozens more in 2017–2018. Asian Journal has not independently verified these numbers and attributes them to the complaint and referenced COA documents.

As of press time, the filing remains an allegation. All respondents are entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence until the Ombudsman completes its investigation and, if warranted, files formal charges. n

USCIS launches new U.S. citizenship test...

PAGE 1

What’s different

Previously, applicants were asked 10 questions drawn from a 100-question bank, with six correct answers required to pass. The new format restores and updates features first introduced in 2020, which were later suspended following feedback from educators and immigrant advocates.

USCIS said the changes are meant to “better measure applicants’ knowledge of U.S. history, government, and civ-

ic principles.” Applicants 65 years or older who have been lawful permanent residents for 20 years or more will still take a shorter version: 10 questions from a 20-question list, with six correct answers required. Advocates express concern Community and immigrant-service organizations have voiced concern that the new test could pose challenges for applicants with limited English or time to study. Many are calling for additional

support and translated study materials to help test-takers adjust.

What applicants should know

USCIS emphasizes that the filing date determines which test applies. Those who filed before Oct. 20, 2025, will still take the earlier version. Applicants are urged to use official USCIS study resources and begin preparing early, since the civics portion remains an oral interview without multiple-choice options. (AJPress)

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 infra-

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 nice-to-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

FeAtures OPiniOn

Filipino American History Month and the journey from colonial classrooms to community

EVERY October, Filipino American History Month is marked across the United States to honor more than four centuries of Filipino presence in America. Introduced by the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) in 1988 and officially recognized by Congress in 2009, the observance commemorates the arrival of the first documented Filipinos in Morro Bay, California, in October 1587.

That arrival took place during the Manila–Acapulco galleon trade, a maritime route that linked Asia, the Americas, and Europe for over two centuries. The Philippines, which came under Spanish colonial rule in 1565, remained under Spain for more than 333 years until 1898, serving as a vital hub of its trans-Pacific empire. Filipino sailors, known as Luzones Indios or

public lives

THE struggle of man against power is the struggle of memory against forgetting,” wrote the Czech novelist Milan Kundera. Forgetting has always been one of our nation’s gravest afflictions. We forget the abuses and excesses of power even when their traces still haunt our daily lives. We keep electing the same bad leaders, conveniently overlooking that the

Manilamen, worked aboard Spanish galleons carrying silk, porcelain, and spices from Manila to Acapulco, Mexico, and silver on the return voyage. Some reached the coast of California, then under Spanish control. In October 1587, one such vessel, the Nuestra Señora de Esperanza, anchored off what is now Morro Bay, where Filipinos became the first Asians to set foot in

When the young refuse to forget

clans and classes they represent have long been our tormentors and plunderers. Yet it’s pointless to blame the victims. Our amnesia stems not from ignorance or weakness, but from a distorted understanding of democracy. We equate democracy with mere majority rule—as though the will of the people were automatically sovereign once ballots are cast and counted. But elections are not free when millions vote

under the shadow of extreme poverty, hunger, and dependence.

In a society where the gap between rich and poor is as wide as ours, democracy is routinely captured by those who command both money and muscle. The result is a form of governance built on patronage and coercion—an arrangement so normalized that it now feels inevitable.

Seen in this light, forget-

what would later become the United States. By the late nineteenth century, Spain’s empire was in decline, and revolution was taking hold in the Philippines. After the U.S. Navy’s victory in the Battle of Manila Bay, the Treaty

of Paris was signed on December 10, 1898, through which Spain ceded the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico to the United States for 20 million dollars.

Freedom and personal responsibility

Safe Space

IT so happened that our module on existential psy

chotherapy coincided with the students’ “hell week,” when requirements start piling up. For first-year students, this is also when the

novelty of being in graduate school wears off. This is overtaken by the sheer exhaustion of juggling both school and work, not to mention trying to maintain some semblance of a social life. During high-pressure situations, I notice students start to take shortcuts. They make practical trade-offs, sacrificing one requirement for another. They also start forgetting their original intention of why they chose

this path to begin with, seeing school tasks as drudgery and something merely to get past. It is not surprising that learning absorption is poor, and the experience of not learning anything contributes to their sense of overwhelm, sometimes leading to despair and wondering if this is the right career for them.

It was the perfect opportunity to apply the existential

Publication of a Client’s Material does not constitute an a greement to continue publication.

Client agrees and covenants to indemnify AJPI and its officers against any and all loss, liability, damage, expenses, cost, charges, claims, actions, causes of action, recoveries, judgments, penalties, including outside attorneys’ fees (individually and collectively “Claims”) which AJPI may

Filipino American History Month...

The sale of the Philippines, concluded without the consent of its people, ended more than three centuries of Spanish rule and began nearly fifty years of American colonization. The new regime brought an education system patterned after that of the United States, the use of English, and a generation molded by American ideals.

Colonial classrooms and American imagery

At the turn of the twentieth century, following the Philippine-American War, American teachers known as the Thomasites established a public-school system modeled after the United States. English became the medium of instruction, and values such as discipline, democracy, and merit were taught as universal truths.

In textbooks filled with unfamiliar faces and changing seasons, Filipino children encountered a version of childhood far from their own.

Among the most enduring images were red apples and slices of apple pie, drawn with such precision that they seemed to carry the scent of autumn.

Apples were not native to the Philippines. They grew in colder climates and appeared only in imported tins or as gifts from abroad. Yet in American storybooks, they symbolized home, warmth, and the sweetness of an orderly life. For children raised under the tropical sun, these images depicted a world of calm abundance that existed elsewhere—a sweetness they could see but not taste.

Over time, such imagery

PAGE 6

ting begins to make a certain sense. Remembering can be risky. During the Duterte years, many poor families chose to erase from memory the killings of their loved ones—if only to avoid further harassment. Forgetting became their defense mechanism, a way to survive the reign of fear.

The same logic explains why financially distressed voters still run to the same corrupt politicians for help with hospital bills, dialysis slots, and other needs. This dependence is not their choice. It is embedded in a system that withholds essential rights to food, health,

shaped their notions of civility, progress, and aspiration. Sweetness seemed to belong somewhere else, on the other side of the world.

Education and migration: a continuous journey

From those classrooms emerged a people who saw education as both inheritance and salvation. Learning became the path to advancement, first through the pensionado scholars who studied in American universities, and later through the doctors, nurses, teachers, and engineers who carried their skills across oceans in search of opportunity.

What began as a colonial program evolved into a national pattern of migration. By the mid-twentieth century, Filipinos had become one of the most educated and mobile immigrant groups in the United States—fluent in English, disciplined in work, and driven by ambition. The ideals first taught in colonial classrooms became the language of mobility and the measure of success.

Yet this journey also carried the lingering mark of colonial mentality: the belief that achievement required validation from the West. For many, arriving in America felt like stepping into the storybooks of youth. But experience soon revealed a harder truth: dignity is not inherited, and belonging cannot be bought.

Redefining sweetness

For Filipino Americans today, the story has come full circle. What began in imitation has become a process of redefinition. The first laborers who toiled in the plantations of Hawaii, the canneries of

Alaska, and the farms of California laid the foundation for later generations who would excel in education, medicine, business, and the arts.

The Filipino American story runs through every part of American life. It thrives in hospitals, classrooms, churches, boardrooms, studios, and city halls. Yet visibility remains uneven. Filipino Americans make up one of the largest Asian populations in the United States but remain among the least represented in national narratives.

Filipino American History Month calls attention to that absence. It reminds us that history is cumulative, that the lessons once taught in colonial schools have been reshaped by experience, perseverance, and self-definition. It honors the past not as nostalgia but as grounding, urging every generation to look backward with understanding and forward with confidence.

Apples and apple pie, once distant symbols of American sweetness, now serve as reminders of how far the Filipino story has traveled. Filipinos have taken what was once foreign—language, learning, and labor—and transformed it into self-determination, achievement, and purpose.

Sweetness is not imported. It grows wherever people reclaim their story and teach the next generation to see beauty through their own light. In rediscovery lies pride. In pride lies the strength of what Filipino American History Month ultimately celebrates: the enduring work of becoming whole. (AJPress)

Freedom and personal responsibility...

PAGE 6

perspective, which deals with existential givens of death, meaninglessness, isolation, and freedom. I asked them what they fear happening—and losing— if they continue to spend energy on their lessons. I also asked them to sit with the choices they have made without rushing to rationalization or justification.

An important concept in existential psychotherapy is the belief that people ultimately have the freedom to make their own choices. These choices may be difficult. The options may be limited. Nevertheless, they are your choice to make. Not choosing is also a choice. Intertwined with freedom, however, is responsibility. You cannot have one without the other. As much as you are free to decide, you are also responsible for the consequences of those decisions. This makes freedom an uneasy given in life, and not a few disavow it: “I was forced to do it.” “I had no choice.” “If you didn’t do that, I wouldn’t have done this.”

In therapy, personal responsibility is an essential element for positive outcomes. It is a misconception that therapy supports the client in blaming others (usually the parents) for their suffering. Good and ethical therapy recognizes that the client must take personal responsibility for their choices and behavior in life. You may not have had control over what happened to you, but you do have control over how you respond to life’s challenges.

In the broader sphere, we see this tension play out. Nobody would openly admit they want less freedom for themselves, yet many are also hesitant to take personal responsibility for their lives. There are people who vote for less individual freedom, such as electing authoritarian regimes, so that they can pass off responsibility to leaders. People blindly comply with rules so they can blame the rules and the rule makers.

We see this happen in current events. For example, nobody is forced to participate in corruption. They simply chose to play the game. The earlier defense of the Discayas during the Senate hearings, as rebuked by Sen. Risa Hontiveros, was that they felt they had no choice but to pay kickbacks. She reminded them that they could have chosen not to profit from such rigged government contracts, yet chose to do so.

This also applies to regular citizens when it comes to making use of fixers or offering bribes to get out of a traffic violation. Would it be terribly inconvenient to go through the process of paying the fines and attending seminars? Yes. Is it much easier than contesting a traffic ticket? Yes. And it is our choice to choose convenience or expediency over doing what is right.

The Duterte family’s insistence that former President Rodrigo Duterte was merely “kidnapped,” refusing to acknowledge that he was arrested by law enforcement, is another example. “Kid-

When the young refuse to forget...

shelter, education—except through the intercession of politicians. When survival depends on the goodwill of one’s patrons, silence about their corruption and abuses becomes the price of access. I once thought that Sen. Bong Go’s Malasakit Centers offered a way out of this feudal cycle. I was mistaken. These Department of Health desks merely map the labyrinth of patronage, pointing the poor to politicians who control hospital funds. They simplify dependence but do not abolish it. Still, for the poor, that small measure of help feels like service. Gratitude replaces rights. This deeply entrenched

culture of connection is hard to dismantle. It runs through the veins of daily life. When we transact with government, the first question we ask is: Who do I know there? We tell ourselves this is not necessarily to cut the line but only to guard against extortion. Either way, the system endures, sustained by our distrust and our penchant for shortcuts.

And yet, there is hope. “Be the change you seek,” says the familiar injunction. I find that more and more young Filipinos are taking it seriously. They queue patiently. They recoil from open displays of privilege. They “cancel” their peers for flaunting wealth or

entitlement.

But they also demand accountability from their elders—from us, who have seen too much and perhaps grown too cynical. They are not weighed down by the fatigue of old struggles or the disappointments of failed reforms. Their anger is raw, urgent, and undiluted.

That is why so many of today’s uprisings, whether in our country or abroad, are youth-driven. Their protests are born in social media and then spill into the streets. The internet is their public square. Their fight, too, is the struggle of memory against forgetting, of defiance against the dull weight

napping” highlights only what is done to the person, with the assumption that the person was not personally responsible for their kidnapping. An arrest, however, would imply that the person has done something to warrant the arrest. It thus makes sense that the Dutertes keep insisting on their narrative to ensure their father’s escape from personal responsibility for the crimes of humanity allegedly committed during his administration. The narrative disconnects his actions from the consequences of his actions. Without this important context, they are able to paint the former president as a victim or martyr to his supporters.

The Senate resolution urging the International Criminal Court to place the former President under house arrest completely ignores his personal responsibility as well and only emphasizes his freedom. There is no mention whatsoever of the crimes he has been charged with nor have they taken into consideration the grievances of the Filipino victims, whose interests they have the sworn duty to represent as public servants.

To fully embrace and protect our freedoms, we must be willing to take personal responsibility, starting with our own actions. (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.

* * *

aatuazon@up.edu.ph

of resignation.

In 2013, many of us marched against the pork barrel scandal known as the Priority Development Assistance Fund racket. It sent Janet Napoles, the impresario of fake NGOs, to prison, and briefly jailed three senators. But all except Napoles are now free, and the old order of congressional entitlements not only survived but became worse. Today, as the flood-control scandal unfolds, we can’t help fearing a replay. Yet something feels different this time.

The outrage coursing through social media is not just about the brazen plunder of public funds. It is about the

shameless display of ill-gotten wealth—the influencer lifestyle of power. This anger has its own momentum; it no longer waits for the state to act. For the young, the existing order may buy itself time, but its moral bankruptcy is beyond repair. That is the power of remembrance. It is the weapon of those who refuse to inherit our forgetfulness. (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

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 opacity or excuses.

Why trust is the new currency... As Quiboloy case advances, court rejects hospital plea and prepares for key witness testimony

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 cul-

tural 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.

Transparency–Meaningful 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 infrastructure 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. n

by AJPress

THE legal battle surrounding Apollo Quiboloy, founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), is gaining momentum as the Pasig Regional Trial Court denied his request for hospital arrest and prosecutors prepare to call former police chief Nicolas Torre III as a state witness in the widening trafficking and abuse case.

Court denies hospital arrest request

The Pasig Regional Trial Court Branch 159 rejected Quiboloy’s plea to be transferred to a private hospital, ruling that his medical care while in detention remains sufficient. The order, dated October 8 and made public this week, stated that there was “no compelling reason” to grant hospital arrest.

narrative and help establish the pattern of conduct alleged by former members of Quiboloy’s ministry.

Case enters critical phase

Quiboloy will continue to be held at Camp Crame, where he has been detained since September 2024 on multiple counts of human trafficking, sexual abuse, and exploitation. The court noted that his current detention facility has the necessary medical staff and equipment to address his condition.

Next hearing set for December 11

The court also scheduled the next hearing for December 11, 2025, marking a shift from procedural motions to

substantive trial proceedings. Prosecutors from the Department of Justice are expected to present additional witnesses and evidence supporting charges filed under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act and related laws.

Torre among key witnesses

Former PNP chief Nicolas Torre III has been identified by prosecutors as a state witness whose testimony may help clarify investigative findings in the case. His participation signals the government’s intent to strengthen its evidence through credible law-enforcement sources.

Legal analysts say Torre’s appearance, once scheduled, could lend institutional weight to the prosecution’s

Beyond the Philippine proceedings, Quiboloy also faces indictments in the United States for sex trafficking, bulk-cash smuggling, and fraud—charges he continues to deny as politically motivated.

Observers note that the convergence of domestic and international prosecutions represents an uncommon moment of accountability for a once-powerful religious leader whose influence spanned politics, media, and faith communities. The coming months are expected to determine whether the case finally moves toward full trial. n

GSIS trustees resign after calling for Veloso’s ouster

Three members of the GSIS board have stepped down following their call for President and General Manager Jose Arnulfo “Wick” Veloso to resign, as Malacañang underscores that any action against him must have legal basis.

by AJPress

MANILA — Three members of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Board of Trustees have resigned after signing a letter calling for the resignation of GSIS President and General Manager Jose Arnulfo “Wick” Veloso, citing concerns over the fund’s investment performance.

The resigning trustees are Ma. Merceditas N. Gutierrez, a former Ombudsman; Emmanuel de Leon Samson; and Rita E. Riddle. Their resignations were confirmed by the GSIS through an official statement on October 21.

In the same announcement, GSIS said three new trustees had been appointed to fill the vacancies: Gilbert Tan Sadsad, Enrico Gregorio

Molina Trinidad, and Cenon Cruz Audencial Jr. The pension fund said the appointments were made to ensure continuity in governance and maintain stability in service to its members.

Letter that triggered the resignations

On October 14, a group of GSIS trustees and former board members submitted a letter asking Veloso to “immediately and irrevocably” resign from his post. The signatories cited what they described as investment losses amounting to P8.8 billion, which they said raised governance concerns within the board.

Veloso defends fund’s financial standing

In a statement to the media, Veloso rejected the calls for him to step down,

describing the allegations as “unfounded and misleading.” He said GSIS remains financially sound, citing internal reports showing asset growth from P1.53 trillion in July 2022 to P1.92 trillion as of August 2025, and a net income of P100 billion for the first eight months of the year.

Veloso added that the actuarial life of the pension fund had been extended to 2058, reflecting its sustained financial strength. He emphasized that all GSIS investments comply with existing regulations and undergo regular risk assessments in accordance with Republic Act 8291, the GSIS Act of 1997.

Palace urges due process Malacañang confirmed that the President had been

informed of the internal dispute. In a Palace briefing, officials said the President emphasized that any action to remove or replace the GSIS head must “have basis” and follow established procedures.

Focus on fund members GSIS serves more than 2.6 million members and pen-

sioners from the public sector. The fund’s management decisions directly affect the long-term security of government employees’ retirement and insurance benefits. Following the appointments of new trustees, GSIS said it will continue to prioritize transparency, prudent investment management, and efficient service delivery to its members nationwide. Call for accountability and review

Several lawmakers have since expressed support for an independent review of GSIS investments to promote accountability and ensure confidence among members and pensioners. n

DOJ wraps up probe, submits missing sabungeros case for resolution

PH Business groups urge balance in reforms as ICI widens

P5.2-B flood-control probe

by AJPress

MANILA - The Department of Justice (DOJ) has formally submitted for resolution the complaints against businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, actress Gretchen Barretto, and several others in connection with the disappearance of 34 cockfighting enthusiasts (sabungeros) between 2021 and 2022.

Justice officials confirmed that the preliminary investigation has concluded following the filing of counter-affidavits by Ang and Barretto. Prosecutors will now determine whether there is probable cause to bring the case to trial.

DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano said the panel received voluminous submissions from all parties, including the 18-inch-thick counter-affidavit filed by Ang on October 17, which contained documentary and video evidence questioning the credibility of complainant Julie “Dondon” Patidongan.

“The case is now under evaluation. We have to weigh the sufficiency of evidence before any filing in court,” Clavano

said.

Ang’s lawyer, Atty. Gabriel Villareal, maintained that the defense evidence disproves the accusations and requested the DOJ to refer the matter back to the PNP–CIDG for an impartial case buildup. Ang’s camp also filed counter-complaints in Mandaluyong City against Patidongan and others for alleged extortion and false testimony.

Case background

The sabungeros case stems from the disappearance of 34 men between April 2021 and January 2022, all last seen attending cockfighting derbies in Laguna, Batangas, Bulacan, and Manila. The incidents, believed to be linked to illegal e-sabong (online betting) operations, sparked public outrage and Senate inquiries.

Authorities later discovered hundreds of skeletal remains around Taal Lake, though forensic teams have yet to find DNA matches connecting them to the missing men. The DOJ has subpoenaed over 60 individuals, including financiers, security personnel, and law enforcement officers, as

part of the broader investigation.

Families renew calls for justice

Relatives of the missing sabungeros welcomed the DOJ’s progress but urged prosecutors to hold accountable those behind the disappearances, regardless of their status or influence.

Their lawyers said they remain hopeful that the DOJ panel will recommend the filing of murder, kidnapping, and enforced disappearance charges against the respondents.

DOJ faces key decision on fate of high-profile case

With the case now under review, the DOJ panel is expected to release its resolution within weeks. If probable cause is established, formal criminal charges will be filed in court; otherwise, the case may be dismissed or referred for further investigation.

The “missing sabungeros” probe remains one of the most high-profile tests of the justice system’s ability to ensure due process, forensic accuracy, and accountability in politically sensitive cases. n

DFA defends due process amid Tiangco’s

call

to revoke Zaldy Co’s passport

MANILA — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has rejected allegations by Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco that it is “lawyering” for former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, insisting that any move to cancel Co’s passport must follow due process and the specific provisions of the law.

In a statement released earlier this week, the DFA clarified that under Republic Act No. 11983, or the New Philippine Passport Act, the agency may cancel or revoke a passport only in cases expressly allowed by law - such as when the holder is a fugitive from justice, convicted of a crime, or when the passport was fraudulently obtained or issued in error. These actions, it emphasized, generally require a court order.

“The Department cannot unilaterally revoke a passport outside the conditions prescribed by law,” the DFA said, responding to Tiangco’s claim that its adherence to procedure amounted to defending Co. “Our obligation is to uphold the rule of law, not to play politics.”

Tiangco has repeatedly urged the DFA to revoke Co’s passport, arguing that such action would ensure his return to the country as investigations continue into alleged irregularities in flood-control and infrastructure projects. He cited the law’s section on national security, claiming it gives the DFA

ministerial power to cancel passports in the interest of public safety.

Co, who resigned from Congress in September citing threats to his safety, has yet to face formal criminal charges in connection with the allegations. He is reportedly abroad for medical reasons.

The DFA reiterated that compliance with the law is not a matter of discretion but a constitutional duty. It added that any decision to cancel Co’s passport would be based on established legal grounds, not public pressure. n

Business groups urge the Philippine government to balance reform and investor confidence as ICI and AMLC freeze P5.2 billion in flood-control assets and DPWH files graft complaints.

MANILA — Leading business organizations have urged the government to strike a balance between accountability and continuity as the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) expands its probe into the P5.2-billion flood-control scandal—the country’s largest corruption investigation in years.

The call came after the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) confirmed that assets exceeding P5.2 billion have been frozen through multiple Court of Appeals orders. The frozen assets include 1,671 bank accounts, 58 insurance policies, 163 vehicles, 99 real properties, and 12 electronic wallets linked to individuals and contractors suspected of involvement in “ghost” or substandard flood-control projects.

Investors welcome cleanup but warn of overreach

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), and several infrastructure consortiums voiced support for the administration’s anti-corruption push but cautioned against measures that could disrupt legitimate projects or discourage investment.

PCCI president Enrique Santos said the business community views the asset-recovery drive as a “positive signal” that the government is serious about fiscal discipline.

However, he added that “uncertainty in procurement and payment cycles could discourage capital inflows if innocent firms are caught in the dragnet.”

MAP officials echoed the sentiment, urging clear criteria for blacklisting and contract suspension to prevent reputational damage to firms not directly implicated. Financial recovery over punishment

ICI chair former Chief Justice Andres B. Reyes Jr. said restitution—not merely prosecution—remains the commission’s central aim. “Justice is not enough. We

must restore what was stolen,” he emphasized.

The ICI and AMLC are coordinating with the Office of the Solicitor General and Department of Justice to prepare civil forfeiture petitions that will transfer frozen assets permanently to the state. Under Philippine law, freeze orders last 20 days and may be extended for up to six months while the government proves illicit origin.

Finance officials said recovered funds will be redirected to flood-mitigation and classroom-construction programs, symbolically turning ill-gotten wealth into public infrastructure.

Reform and reckoning inside DPWH

ICI findings have triggered an internal shake-up in the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Secretary Vince Dizon confirmed that P270 million in graft and malversation complaints have been filed against 20 regional officials and two contractors in La Union and Davao Occidental.

Dizon admitted that only 22 classrooms out of 1,700 targeted for 2025 were completed, blaming years of over-spending on flood-control projects. “Accountability now means performance,” he said.

The ICI is also conducting field validation of 421 projects using satellite imagery and geotagged photos to

verify if the structures exist. Findings will determine blacklisting or referral to the Ombudsman. Political tension and transparency push

The probe’s reach has touched high-ranking officials. House Speaker Martin Romualdez requested a postponement of his scheduled hearing, citing a medical procedure. Vice President Sara Duterte questioned the ICI’s creation, claiming it was intended to “legitimize the government narrative.”

Malacañang countered that the ICI operates independently and will livestream hearings once its procedural rules are finalized, a move observers say could redefine transparency standards in corruption probes.

Balancing deterrence with delivery

Economists note that the challenge ahead lies in maintaining investor confidence while enforcing accountability. The Department of Finance and DPWH are finalizing an Inter-Agency Asset Recovery Framework to ensure forfeited funds are transparently audited and reinvested in priority public works.

Analysts say the effort marks a turning point in how corruption cases are handled—where financial restitution, data-driven verification, and public transparency converge as tools of reform. n

Philippine Entries among Winners, Nominees in 2025 SOHO International Film Festival

by AJPress

Regina Aquino’s “Faith Healers” Wins Audience Award for Feature Film  Global Filmmakers Honored as 2025 SOHO International Film Festival Announces Winners in New York City New York City – October 14, 2025 – The 2025 SOHO International Film Festival (SIFFNYC), presented by the Soho Creative Lab Foundation, concluded its 16th edition in a grand style event last night for its vibrant SIFFNYC Awards Night Gala at the Helen Mills Theater in New York City, celebrating excellence in independent filmmaking from across the world.

Under the direction of Executive Director and Head of Programming Sibyl Reymundo-Santiago, the producer of the annual event, and Founder and President Jorge Ballos, who established the festival to give a global platform to bold and diverse cinematic voices, this year’s 16th Edition delivered a week of sold-out screenings, creative panels, and unforgettable conversations at the Regal Union Square.

A high-profile jury — including actor Dallas Roberts (“Insatiable,” “Tulsa King”), New York Women in Film & Television Executive Director Cynthia Lopez, Marci Phillips, VP of Talent & Casting for 20th Studios/Disney Entertainment, Max Geschwind, Media Finance of Creative Artists Agency (CAA), and Brian Nemes (Head of Film & TV Strategy, Gold House) — deliberated on a lineup of over 100 films representing more than 20 countries.

Presented in partnership with Sitting Cat Productions, Regal Union Square, MongoMedia, and Madame World, the evening’s festivities featured a stylish celebration complete with signature cocktails from Tito’s Vodka, Vera Wang Prosecco provided by partners Royal Wine Corp,

and passed hors d’oeuvres by partners from Tagpuan, as the international film community toasted an unforgettable year in independent film.

“This year’s lineup truly embodied what SOHO stands for — bold voices, fearless artistry, and stories that bridge cultures,” said Sibyl Reymundo-Santiago. “We’re deeply proud to see how our filmmakers continue to expand the boundaries of independent cinema. Every nominee and winner tonight represents the

(President &

Sibyl Reymundo-Santiago

&

Photos from Champion Hamilton heart of storytelling today.”

HIGHLIGHTS & AWARD MOMENTS

Among the most celebrated wins of the night:

Tricia Helfer took home Best Acting Performance in a Leading Role – US Feature for her captivating performance in “Hello Beautiful.”

Naum Shopov earned Best Acting Performance in a Lead-

Josh Yugen’s expanding Miss Universe footprint: The Filipino behind five national franchises

Dubai-based Filipino entrepreneur Josh Yugen now oversees Miss Universe franchises in Bahrain, Egypt, Pakistan, Denmark, and Sweden. His growing portfolio shows how Filipino talent continues to shape global pageantry from the Middle East to Europe

by AJPress

A Filipino shaping global pageantry

Josh Yugen, a Dubai-based Filipino entrepreneur, has built one of the widest Miss Universe franchise portfolios ever held by a Filipino. Through his company, Yugen Group, he currently manages the national licenses for Bahrain, Egypt, Pakistan, Denmark, and Sweden. His expansion highlights the strong Filipino presence in the global beauty pageant industry.

The Miss Universe Organization granted Yugen’s group the Bahrain license in 2021, marking the country’s debut under his leadership. In 2023, his company obtained the rights to Egypt and Pakistan, both of which returned to Miss Universe after years of absence. By 2025, his portfolio expanded further when Denmark and Sweden joined under House of Yugen, reintroducing the two Scandinavian countries to the competition.

Track record and partnerships

Under Yugen’s direction, Miss Universe Bahrain gained recognition for promoting modest fashion that aligned with Gulf cultural values. The franchise earned attention in regional media for balancing modern representation with respect for tradition.

When Pakistan joined Miss Universe in

the event was

a new milestone for women’s participation in

After years of

Egypt

Christophe Bariou reveals P50M extortion attempt involving him and Nadine Lustre Aljur Abrenica declines to confirm reports of children with AJ Raval

by AJPress by AJPress

MANILA — French Filipino entrepreneur Christophe Bariou, partner of actress Nadine Lustre, has claimed that the couple was the target of a P50-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 proj-

ects 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.

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 state-

ments, or independent verification substantiate claims that the couple has children. Both Abrenica and Raval

have reiterated their wish for privacy as they continue to focus on their respective careers.

Unapologetically Juday

From television to the kitchen, she serves herself — unfiltered, unscripted, unforgettable

by Reggie AspiRAs Inquirer.net

LONG before she became a household name on screen, Judy Ann “Juday” Santos-Agoncillo was already drawn to the warmth of the kitchen. “I was eight or nine when I first cooked instant noodles and scrambled eggs,” she recalls with a laugh. “I guess my love affair with food started even earlier than my acting career. ”

Growing up, her mother Carol’s cooking, especially her special chicken a la king, served on bread cups—only during Christmas when her mom returned home from working abroad—was the first thing Santos-Agoncillo wanted to recreate in the kitchen. It was her earliest taste of comfort and longing. “That dish was precious. It meant family, celebration, and love,” she explains.

As a young actress, she would hitch rides with film set caterers and linger in their company, fascinated by the sights and smells of cooking. At home, she found joy in helping her mother prepare merienda. A task as simple as sprinkling sugar on toast or rolling rice balls for ginataang bilo-bilo brought her so much joy.

Those moments sparked a passion that would last a lifetime.

Rooted in love

In her mid-20s, Santos-Agoncillo decided to formally study culinary arts at the Center for Asian Culinary Studies (CACS). “I wanted to learn something beyond acting,” she explains. “I missed being a student—writing notes, reading, understanding what I was doing. Culinary school gave me that again.” What she discovered wasn’t just a craft but also a way to express care. According to her mentor, chef Gene Gonzalez, Santos-Agoncillo as a student was diligent, patient, dedicated, and deeply focused. She was a hard worker who, despite her star status, remained humble. And at home, she is every bit the devoted wife, mother, and cook.

Mornings begin early, at five in the morning—to prepare her husband and children’s packed meals. At the dining table, the kids eat what’s served. With a playful firmness, she shares, “If they don’t eat their vegetables, they drink them.” It’s that same dis-

cipline and humor that keep her home and cooking—rooted in love.

Her children and her husband’s current favorite dish is her cheesecake, a recipe she developed herself and now makes upon request.

Self-expression through food

From television to the kitchen, Santos-Agoncillo’s story has always been about transformation. Her restaurant, Angrydobo, was conceived upon the prodding of her husband Ryan, whom she claims is her staunchest ally and her most honest critic. Without him, she confesses, “I might not have had enough faith in myself to open this.”

Our chitchat came to a halt as soon as the customers walked into Angrydobo to enjoy the dishes she prepared for Chef’s Night, a special event held twice a month. The menu showcased Filipino flavors from North to South—distinct from the familiar comfort fare served at her restaurant.

The little plates arrived one after another, each revealing more of Santos-Agoncillo’s palate and her unique way of expressing herself through food. As a culinary artist, she is brave and doesn’t hold back—she dares to cook as she feels. Her dishes are bold and layered, with nuances that mirror the same depth and complexity that define her craft as an actress.

Juday on a plate

Santos-Agoncillo’s palate craves “deep, savory flavors.” “Different pops of taste and texture in every bite. That’s

Philippine Entries Among Winners...

ing Role – World Feature for “Wingless” (Bulgaria), which also captured Best World Showcase Feature Film.

Ireland’s Lauren Larkin triumphed with Best Acting Performance in a Leading Role – World Short for “One More Round,” while “Sotto Voce” won Best Acting Ensemble.

Heitor Dhalia’s “The Ballad of a Hustler” was named Best US Showcase Feature Film, and Regina Aquino’s “Faith Healers” resonated with audiences to win the Audience Award for Feature Film.

One of the night’s most emotional highlights came as Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen’s “Brooklyn Minnesota” claimed the Audience Award for Exhibition Films.

Love, There Is No Darkness

– France), Stefany Obadiaru (Wingless – Bulgaria)

Winner: Naum Shopov (Wingless, Bulgaria)

BEST ACTING PERFORMANCE IN A LEADING ROLE – US FEATURE

Nominees: Bernardo Barreto (The Ballad of a Hustler), Erika Christensen (After All), Landon Ashworth (Go On), Penelope Ann Miller (After All), Renee Gagner (I’ve Seen All I Need to See)

Winner: Tricia Helfer (Hello Beautiful)

BEST ACTING ENSEMBLE IN A FEATURE OR SHORT FILM

Nominees: Apostasy Blues, Bang Bang, Ravel, The Lonely Isles, The Singers

Winner: Sotto Voce

Nominees: Don’t Be Late, Myra (Pakistan), Making Beauty (Canada), Millie (Australia), One More Round (Ireland), Teach Us How to Fly (Ukraine), Dente / Teeth (Italy), The Most Powerful Human on Earth (UK), What’s Wrong, Emma (France), Wholesome Warmth (Spain)

Winner: Under the Northern Skies (Finland) by Timo Sakari Puustinen

BEST US SHOWCASE SHORT FILM

Nominees: Becca Comes to Visit, Crane, Fast Edee, Forgive Me, Father, If Birds Believed in God, Sands Street, Shoulder Season, Sotto Voce, Standby, The Fencer, The Lonely Isles

Winner: The Singers by Sam Davis

how I cook—and how I eat,” she says. If her kilawin were a film, it would be worthy of a FAMAS Award. Think hamachi and tuna, drizzled with charred coconut milk, with a sprinkling of pomelo bits, laced with kaffir oil, capped with a tart and sweet tuba sorbet. The kilawin came with puffy golden poori balls for crunch. Each bite of the kilawin encased in poori was crackled and bright— smoky, refreshing, and so exciting. It was a party in the mouth.

On the other hand, the tamales with grilled pompano, crab fat, and tomatoes belonged to a more advanced taste category—complex, sophisticated, layered, and unconventional. It was a dish with many facets, each element revealing something new with each bite. And the accompanying sambal was outstanding. It tied everything together with just the right kick.

At this point of the meal, I noticed a recurring theme… every dish Santos-Agoncillo prepared was her own personal take on a plate. Her food was out of the box. Free. Created and executed in ways only she could imagine. Her food mirrors the person she is—an “artist whose love language is to cook.”

As I watched Santos-Agoncillo move from table to table, she did so with grace, ease, and a pure joy that comes only from doing what you love. She even shares a recipe she is proud of—a coming together of her two favorite dishes: sinigang and monggo.

Other major winners included “The Singers” (Best US Showcase Short Film), “Under the Northern Skies” (Best World Showcase Short Film), “Dewey Days” (Best Long Form Series Pilot), “Disc” (Best Short Form Series Pilot), “The High King’s Daughter” (Best Showcase Animated Film), “Left Behind” (Best Showcase Documentary Feature), “Samland” (Best Showcase Documentary Short), and “Double Happiness” (Audience Award for Short Film or Series Pilot).

FULL LIST OF 2025 SIFFNYC WINNERS & NOMINEES

BEST ACTING PERFORMANCE IN A LEADING ROLE

– WORLD SHORT

Nominees: Dasha Plahtiy (Teach Us How to Fly – Ukraine), Imelda Staunton (The Most Powerful Human on Earth – UK), Innayah Umer (Don’t Be Late, Myra – Pakistan), Lloyd Cooney (One More Round – Ireland), Sarah Bennington (What’s Wrong, Emma? – France)

Winner: Lauren Larkin (One More Round, Ireland)

BEST ACTING PERFORMANCE IN A LEADING ROLE

– US SHORT

Nominees: Adam Budron (If Birds Believed in God), Bear D’Angelo (The Fencer), Lalia Hays (How Are We Feeling Today?), Mike Young (The Singers), Ray Abruzzo (The Fencer)

Winner: Reed Birney (Standby)

BEST ACTING PERFORMANCE IN A LEADING ROLE

– WORLD FEATURE

Nominees: Anna Zavtur (Seems Like Love – Russia), Dex Castro (Ilaw – Philippines), Morrisette (Song of the Fireflies – Philippines), Oumar Diaw (Where There Is

BEST SHORT FORM SERIES PILOT

Nominees: My So-Called Iraqi Wedding, Nadine, The Ninth, The Wheel Deal

Winner: Disc by Renzo Montoya

BEST LONG FORM SERIES PILOT

Nominees: Books (the Pilot), By the Lake, Consider the Rainbow, It’s a Lot

Winner: Dewey Days by Zach Rineer

AUDIENCE AWARD FOR EXHIBITION FILMS

Top 5: Five Month Trial, Martyr of the Gowanus, This Will Never Work, The Mother, The Menacer and Me

Winner: Brooklyn Minnesota by Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen

AUDIENCE AWARD FOR SHORT FILMS OR SERIES PILOT

Top 5: Before You, Books, Dewey Days, F*ck That Guy Winner: Double Happiness by Shari Albert

AUDIENCE AWARD FOR FEATURE

Top 5: The Ballad of a Hustler (US), Ilaw/Light (Philippines), Looking Up (US), Song of the Fireflies (Philippines) Winner: Faith Healers (US, Philippines) by Regina Aquino

BEST SHOWCASE ANIMATED FILM

Nominees: Almost Ten, Determination, Flower of the Dawn, Grandpa’s Beef Stew

Winner: The High King’s Daughter by Joël Gibbs

BEST SHOWCASE DOCUMENTARY SHORT

Nominees: Fiddler on the Moon, Living Undone, The Imperfect Mother’s Club, Voices of Tomorrow, West Landing Winner: Samland by Grace B. Poppe BEST WORLD SHOWCASE SHORT FILM

BEST SHOWCASE DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM

Nominees: Faith Healers (US, Philippines), Looking Up, Maura & Maggie Get Callbacks (to Play Themselves), Sanctuary, Saving Walden’s World, Space Chasers

Winner: Left Behind by Anna Toomey

BEST WORLD SHOWCASE FEATURE FILM

Nominees: A Farewell to Youth (Canada), Are We Done Now? (Canada), The Art of Telling Lies (Canada, Sweden, Germany), Ilaw/Light (Philippines), Seems Like Love (Russia), Song of the Fireflies (Philippines), Where There Is Love There Is No Darkness (France)

Winner: Wingless (Bulgaria) by Niki Iliev

BEST US SHOWCASE FEATURE FILM

Nominees: A Cell Phone Movie, After All, An Arrangement, Apostasy Blues, Carry the Darkness, Go On, Hello Beautiful, I’ve Seen All I Need to See

Winner: The Ballad of a Hustler by Heitor Dhalia CELEBRATING ARTISTRY & COMMUNITY

This year’s SIFFNYC once again affirmed its place as one of New York’s most influential festivals for independent and international filmmakers — a bridge between cultures and a beacon for storytelling that inspires and unites.

Press & Media Contact: info@sohofilmfest.com www.sohofilmfest.com

Instagram / Facebook / X: @ sohofilmfest

Presented by: Soho Creative Lab Foundation

Festival Partners: Sitting Cat Productions, Regal Union Square, MongoMedia, Tagpuan, Vaisty, Royal Wine, Tito’s Vodka, and Madame World

Health@Heart COVID confusion

PhiliP s . ChuA, MD, FACs , FPCs

SINCE COVID-19 was first discovered in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, and the first case in the United States was reported by the CDC on January 20, 2020, in Washington State, people today, five years later, are still confused about COVID-19 and the vaccine recommendation.

Obviously, public education about the COVID-19 virus, its spread, mortality risk, and vaccination has been deficient, or the messaging was poor. Fake news and misinformation on social media have aggravated the confusion and widespread “vaccine-phobia” among people. Over the past 5 years, this has led to massive spread and infection and countless deaths in the Philippines, the United States, and around the world.

Here are some popular questions being asked, and my clarification.

Are the vaccines worth the risk?

Edward Jenner created the world’s first successful vaccine in July 1796 by inoculating an 8-year-old boy, James Phipps, against the vicious killer smallpox. This highly transmissible, deadly viral disease killed an estimated 4 million Aztecs in the early 1500s and is thought to have caused the collapse of the Inca Empire, killing up to 90 percent of the population. Had there been vaccines against smallpox then, similar to those we have against COVID-19 and other viral diseases today, the Empire could have been saved.

Without the vaccines against COVID-19, the more than 7 million deaths worldwide from the pandemic could have been ten times more, and the 66,000 deaths in the Philippines, more than half a million, and the 1.2 million deaths in the USA, more than 12 million. Thank God for the vaccines!

Vaccines today are safe and effective. Albeit not perfect, with some complications and side effects, nonetheless, these vaccines have saved billions of lives during this pandemic.

The COVID-19 vaccines are worth it. The risk of death from COVID-19 could be 30 percent or higher among those infected, especially the elderly and other vulnerable people, and the risk of death from the vaccines is a fraction of one percent. One does not have to be an Einstein to figure this out.

Just do the math!

I had my fourth COVID-19

shot last year; why do I have to take another one?

The simplest way to understand COVID-19 and the vaccines is to consider each variant of COVID-19 to be a different “disease entity,” that COVID-19 is “a series of,” and not only one disease, requiring only one vaccine. Viruses naturally replicate and evolve into a new strain over time, for which the previous vaccine of 4-6 months ago or longer will no longer be effective. A new vaccine tailored to be effective against a new strain has to be developed periodically as new variants evolve. Simply stated, one vaccine for every new strain or a couple of strains, as recommended by the FDA.

I was infected two years ago and therefore have natural immunity. Why should I need a booster shot?

Infection confers natural immunity, but it is not as stable and reliable as vaccination. Some of those previously infected with COVID-19 still got reinfected. This is why a booster with the latest reformulated vaccine is recommended, especially for those with chronic diseases, especially seniors. What is the current strain of COVID-19 called?

In the United States, the newly dominant COVID-19 strain is the XFG, or nicknamed “Stratus” variant. Seventy-six percent of the cases during the week ending September 6 were the XFG variant, “far surpassing the NB.1.8.1 Nimbus strain” of the previous period, reports the CDC.

How does CDC track emerging variants?

Clinically, the CDC uses genomic surveillance to track emerging SARS-CoV-2 (the COVID-19 virus). The viral genetic sequencing data obtained from patients provide information about the nature of the virus, its transmissibility, virulence, severity, etc. How often does the CDC monitor the virus?

Every Friday, at various strategic sites in the USA, the CDC monitors Wastewater for the COVID-19 virus. It also analyzes the wastewater for other viruses and bacteria for various illnesses. So, wastewater is not total waste; it is a source of vital information in our fight against diseases.

What is Kennedy’s MAHA's new policy on the vaccines?

Health and Human Services

Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s personal extreme antagonism against vaccines has been tempered by both the medical authorities and public

pressure.

The previous CDC recommendation was for everyone six months and older to get the vaccine. Starting May 2025, under Kennedy’s authority, (1) the CDC removed the recommendation that healthy children and pregnant women receive COVID-19 vaccines; (2) Vaccine accessibility will be limited to those adults 65 and older and younger individuals with high-risk conditions; and (3) Healthy adults under 65 must consult a healthcare provider for a prescription.

This would certainly make it more difficult for people, since their insurance may no longer cover COVID-19 shots, unlike the previous HHS policy, which allowed people to go to any pharmacy to get the COVID-19 shot any time, fully covered by their insurance.

When will COVID-19 end?

Even experts do not know. As long as there are unvaccinated people, who are the prime target of the virus and harbor the virus in their bodies, where the virus could evolve and replicate, and as long as these individuals spread the virus, the pandemic will continue. Infected people who do not mask up and distance themselves also contribute to transmission, infection, and deaths. Today, COVID infections are decreasing, but we must never lower our guard. Complacency and carelessness could spell a disaster.

From September 1 to 28, 2025, there were 1,271 new deaths from COVID-19 in 34 countries, lower compared to 1,463 in the previous 28 days, and 917 deaths as of October 5, 2025. About 88 percent of these deaths were among those 65 and older.

In any contagious condition, we need all of us to protect each other, which also protects ourselves in a vicious cycle. Studies have shown masks protect the wearer, and more so the people around.

Compassion towards all our fellowmen always yields inner joy in us and gratitude from them, and affirmation from society.

* * *

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

* * *

The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment

Philippines, Rowan University Discuss Potential Linkages in Health Sciences and Medical Education

NEW YORK, 29 September 2025 — The Philippine Consulate General in New York facilitated a meeting on 25 September between Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa and officials of Rowan University, a public research university in Glassboro, New Jersey, known for its programs in engineering, business, and health sciences.

The meeting explored potential academic and medical exchange programs between Rowan and Philippine higher education institutions offering Medicine and Health Sciences courses. Discussions covered opportunities for Philippine medical professionals and students to undergo training and internships in the US, as well as arrangements for Rowan students to undertake clinical rotations in the Philippines.

Both sides also considered collaborative initiatives with the University of the Philippines College of Medicine, the Commission on Higher Education, and the National Institutes of Health in Manila. Rowan presented programs in emerging areas such as genomics, cancer biology, artificial intelligence in medicine, and population health, while the Philippine side emphasized areas of local expertise

and research strength.

The officials likewise noted the potential of innovative academic pathways such as dual degree programs, residency-to-master’s tracks, and stackable certifications, along with the importance of continuing medical education exchanges to strengthen profes-

sional expertise on both sides.

This engagement underscores the Philippine Government’s commitment to fostering international linkages in health sciences, advancing medical education, and expanding opportunities for Filipino professionals and students.

Josh Yugen’s expanding Miss Universe...

gen’s franchise. The relaunch formed part of a regional effort to strengthen cultural and creative industries.

Scandinavian expansion

In 2025, Yugen extended his reach to Europe. Reports from ScandAsia, PEP.ph, and the Philippine Daily Inquirer confirmed that Denmark and Sweden are now under the House of Yugen umbrella. Both countries are expected to send candidates to Miss Universe 2025, trained through a Manila-based mentorship program organized by Yugen’s team.

The Manila training camp gathered representatives from Egypt, Denmark, Pakistan, and Sweden. Filipino coaches led workshops on public speaking, styling, and cultural advocacy, underscoring the Philippines’ growing influence in international pageantry training.

A Filipino global vision

Yugen has said that his goal is to create platforms where women from diverse cultures can tell their stories. Operating from Dubai allows him to connect Asian and European markets while integrating Filipino expertise.

Although some of his franchises have faced scrutiny, particularly in conservative regions, Yugen’s record re-

mains clear and verifiable. His five-country stewardship is recognized by the Miss Universe Organization and confirmed by official announcements.

For the Philippines, his success reflects how Filipino creativity, leadership, and cultural diplomacy continue to make an impact around the world.

How CITEM Founder Mina T. Gabor Made Me Internationally known

rogelio ConstAntino MeDinA My P.E.P. (People, Events,Places)

MY former boss, Dr. Mina T. Gabor, once asked me to produce CITEM Trade Update—a monthly, later weekly, newsletter that caught the attention of local and foreign buyers, product specialists, academic institutions, and other stakeholders, including regional offices of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Through CITEM Trade Update, I received training from the United Nations as an ASEAN-EEC fellow and represented the Philippines in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Dr. Gabor founded the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) in 1984 and served as its first president and executive director. Her goal was to promote Philippine products and services in the global market.

Among her major achievements were the establishment of the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) and securing the World Trade Center franchise for the Philippines.

She is also a trailblazer in Philippine tourism—recognized as the first female Secretary of the Department of Tourism and for pioneering sustainable tourism. She later founded and now heads the International School of Sustainable Tourism, a leading institution in the Asia-Pacific region dedicated to developing and promoting sustainability in the industry.

Dr. Gabor has served as a consultant for several international organizations, including the United Nations International Trade Center and the World Tourism Organization. In 1998, she received the Philippine Legion of Honor.

We recently held a reunion of former CITEM employees, and our former boss, Dr. Gabor, joined us to give a much-needed morale boost.

Candidly, without Mina T. Gabor, I would not be where I am today—and for that, I will always be grateful.

* * *

Science Journalism Forum

’25

I recently received an email from SciComm X:

“Dear Rogelio, We are pleased to inform you that the committee has agreed to accept your fellow-

ship application as an exception, in recognition of your active participation and valuable contributions to the Science Journalism Forum.”

My heartfelt thanks to SJF through SciComm X. This marks my fifth active participation in the prestigious Science Journalism Forum since 2021, where I ranked 6th on the SJF Leaderboard. I placed 3rd in 2023, and in both 2022 and 2024, I won while representing the Philippines.

I am proud to join participants from The New York Times, Harvard University, Johns Hopkins University, Stanford University, CNN, Deutsche Welle, CERN, the National Institutes of Health, Cornell University, Nature, and Bloomberg in the 2025 Science Journalism Forum.

TESOL to Elect Next Leaders

TESOL International Association has chosen me as one of the voting members to help elect the next set of officers for 2026.

Good luck to:

— Dr. Kate Mastruserio Reynolds, Washington, USA

(Ed.D. TESOL/Literacy; M.A. and B.A. French, University of Cincinnati, Ohio; Professor of Bilingual Education, TESOL, and Literacy at Central Washington University, Ellensburg, WA; Teacher Preparation in TESOL/Bilingual Education, 2018–present)

— Dr. Gabriel Hugo Diaz Maggioli, Uruguay (Ed.D., University of Bath, UK, 2018; M.A. Education, University of Bath, 2004; B.A. English as a Foreign Language, National Teacher Education College, Uruguay, 1985; Professor of TESOL, Learning Theories, and Assessment, Institute of Education, Universidad ORT Uruguay, 2020–present)

TESOL members, your voice matters. Help shape the future of our association by voting in the 2026 election. Vote by November 5, 2025, and make your impact!

Members will receive an email with instructions on how to vote. Learn more about the candidates here: https://bit.ly/4n5bKi4

PFBA ’25 Winners Shine in Las Vegas

Some of the awardees of the 3rd Philippine Finest Business Awards & Outstanding Achievers 2025 were recently featured for three days on LED billboards in Las Vegas, Nevada.

“Our global campaign, pow-

(Seated) current CITEM executive director Leah Pulido Ocampo and first CITEM president/executive director Dr. Mina T. Gabor; (standing, from left) Evans Aligaen, Chyril Luz Rivera Carino, Oly delos Santos, Rogelio Constantino Medina, Joh Silan and Mike Guioguio.

ered by Alegre De Pilipinas

‘Official’ and Janice Israel Delima, proudly brings Filipino excellence to the international spotlight through a stunning digital billboard display right in the heart of Las Vegas,” said La Visual Corporation.

This international milestone marks another proud achievement for La Visual Corporation, honoring outstanding Filipino achievers with worldclass recognition and visibility.

I am grateful to have been featured on a solo billboard alongside fellow honorees that included Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto, actor Aga Muhlach, my friend Jojo Bragais, William Jones, PTV’s Rise and Shine Pilipinas hosts Audrey Gorriceta and Fifi delos Santos, Holland’s Got Talent contestant Lae Manego, photographer Jamin Lim, Jeffrey Dy, Charrie Rose Apilado, Edwin Lisa, NET25’s Wej Cudiamat, Earlo Bringas, Nirro Marcelo, Judge Tarcelo Sabarre Jr., Ricky Palou, Willie Marcial, Salvie Collado Paparon, and Michaela Maris Lamzon, among others.

* * *

Ivatan Artists Exhibit at Casa Angela

Yaru nu Artes Ivatan extended its deepest gratitude to Oly Delos Santos, with the assistance of Andrew and Quev, for their wonderful collaboration and support during the exhibit at Casa Angela in Pampanga.

“It has been such a heartwarming and fulfilling experience for the Ivatan artists to share our work with you. We truly enjoyed every moment of this collaboration and look forward to more meaningful activities and projects together in the future. Thank you for welcoming us with such warmth and appreciation.”

* * *

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

* * * rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com

COVID confusion...

PAGE 14

in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.

* * * Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in

Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He is a decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, US senator, and later a presidential

candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Astronaut Gus Grissom, pugilist Muhammad Ali, David Letterman, distinguished educators, scientists, etc. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888. com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com. On Amazon.com, search for “Where is My America?” Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.