OCTOBER 27-29, 2021 Volume 31 - No. 85 • 14 Pages
USA
DATELINE Larry Itliong Resource Center opens in Central Valley FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
THE Larry Itliong Resource Center has finally made its grand opening in California’s Central Valley. “We Are A Living Legacy” was the theme for the event held Sunday, October 24, to celebrate the inauguration of the Larry Itliong Resource Center, in Poplar, California, as well as commemorate the birthday of recent California Hall of Fame inductee and Filipino American labor hero Larry Itliong Jr. The event was sponsored by the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) Delano, the Bulosan Center of Filipino Studies, and the Central Valley Empowerment Alliance (CVEA). Attendees included family members of movement leaders Itliong, César Chávez and Al Rojas. Also present in the event was Dolores Huerta, who co-founded the National Farmworkers Association with Chávez, which later merged with the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee to become the United Farm Workers. She was joined by state Attorney General Rob Bonta and
FDA panel recommends Pfizer vaccine for children aged 5 to 11 by KLARIZE
MEDENILLA AJPress
ON Tuesday, Oct. 26, a committee from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended the Pfizer vaccine for children aged between 5 and 11 years old, a move that is likely to intensify national discourse and disagreement over whether children
should receive the COVID-19 vaccine. While the vote from the panel — which voted 17 in favor and one abstention — could bring the 28 million children in this age bracket closer to the vaccine, the ultimate decision to enact emergency authorization falls on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to Dr. Anthony Fauci, chief medical
DURING this historic COVID pandemic, more people than ever before signed up for health insurance through Covered California, the state agency that administers the Affordable Care Act (a.k.a. Obamacare). With a record 1.6 million consumers now enrolled in brand-name health plans through Covered California, the agency recently announced that the renewal process is now underway for its current members for health coverage in 2022. The good news is that the vast majority of Covered California members will receive financial help, from the new American Rescue Plan, that will dramatically lower their monthly health care costs. This year, Covered California has also seen an uptick in Asian Americans enrolling in health plans, with quality health care being critical during the pandemic. Asian American enrollment in Covered California health plans increased more than 3.7% in 2021 over last year.
u PAGE 4
u PAGE 2
LA county public health inspectors continue to check business compliance
u PAGE 2
Renewal process begins for Covered California consumers
adviser for the White House, shots could be approved for 5- to 11-year-olds as early as next week. “If all goes well, and we get the regulatory approval, and the recommendations from the CDC, it’s entirely possible, if not, very likely, that vaccines will be available from 5 to 11 within the first week
FIL-AM HISTORY MONTH. Malaya Filipino American Dance Arts, a Los Angeles-based ensemble of performing artists, dancers and musicians, performed at LA International Airport’s West Gates at Tom Bradley International Terminal on October 19 and 20 in celebration of October as Filipino American History Month. Officials who attended the performance included Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) CEO Justin Erbacci and LA Board of Public Works Commissioner Jessica Caloza. LAWA, which operates the city’s airport, previously kicked off the month with lights inspired by the Philippine flag colors in honor of the local Fil-Am community. Photo by Adam Episcopo
THE Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) inspectors continue to visit businesses across the county every day to ensure compliance with required safety measures, including masking guidelines and vaccination verification, provide technical assistance, and respond to complaints of non-compliance. Between October 16 and October 22, Public Health inspectors visited 1,008 restaurants, 78 bars, 226 food markets, 26 breweries, wineries or distilleries, 10 nightclubs, 21 lounges, 21 hotels, 35 gyms and fitness centers, 10 hair salons or barber shops, 52 food manufacturing plants, 33 garment manufacturing plants, 22 personal care businesses, 11 office sites, and 5 large outdoor and indoor venues. Overall, the inspections revealed that while the majority of businesses were in compliance, there is room for improvement with employee masking at garment manufacturers, office sites, bars, nightclubs and lounges, and customer vaccination verifications at bars. Inspectors noted 73% of garment manufacturers, 73% of office sites, 82% of bars, 80% of nightclubs and 86% of lounges were in compliance with employee masking. Eighty-five percent of bars were in compliance with cus-
u PAGE 4
Report: Apple threatened Facebook ban over abuse of Filipina domestic workers by AJPRESS A NEW report revealed that Apple once gave Facebook an ultimatum over the abuse of Filipina domestic workers in the Middle East. “Two years ago, Apple threatened to pull Facebook and Instagram from its app store over concerns about the platform being used as a tool to trade and sell maids in the Mideast,” the Associated Press said in an article published Tuesday, October 25. In response to the threat, Facebook admitted
to being aware of both the exploitative conditions of foreign workers and the use of Instagram to buy and trade maids online. It also recognized the website’s problem with “domestic servitude,” which is a form of human trafficking “for the purpose of working inside private homes through the use of force, fraud, coercion or deception.” Facebook engineers reportedly found nearly three-fourths of posts that showed maids in photos/videos and their biographical In this photo published on Monday, October 25, presidential aspirant and Sen. Ronald Dela details, with over 60% of the material coming Rosa is seen meeting with Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio.
u PAGE 4
Photo courtesy of Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa
Pacquiao, Mayweather to play basketball for charity in Las Vegas As ‘substitution’ deadline nears, Dela Rosa meets with Sara Duterte by AJPRESS
BOXING superstars Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather are planning to reignite their rivalry in a possible rematch, only this time it is going to be on the basketball court for a planned charity basketball event. Organizers are planning to stage the event at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas which was also the venue of Pacquiao and Mayweather’s 2015 multimillion dollar mega-fight that drew a record 4.6 million payper-view buys. “We agree on the main concept Famed boxers Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather crossed paths once again at an LA Clippers basketball game in Jan. 2019. AJPress file photo by Noel Ty of the event, which is to bring
total entertainment to the fans of boxing, basketball and all sports in general and to create a project that will solidify our legacies to the fans,” read the letter of intent signed by both boxers and their teams, Mayweather’s TMT and Mayweather Promotions and Pacquiao’s MP Promotions. Under the unique concept created by promoter, UNIO Enterprise, a sports and entertainment collective, Pacquiao and Mayweather have agreed to participate in a charity event to benefit causes of their
u PAGE 2
by FRANCO LUNA Philstar.com
MANILA — Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa, standard-bearer of the ruling PDP-Laban party, met with Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio at the Davao City Hall on Monday, October 25. This was confirmed by Dela Rosa himself in a Facebook post. He did not say what the meeting was about. “Just a teaser for now,” he wrote in Filipino. “I just reminded her that November 15 is fast approaching,” Dela Rosa also
said. Duterte-Carpio, who belongs to the Hugpong ng Pagbabago regional party, was in Cebu over the weekend. She had a meeting with former Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., presidential candidate of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas and son and namesake of the ousted dictator, on how Davao might be able to help his presidential bid. Nuisance candidate? Dela Rosa has indicated his willingness to drop out of the race should the president’s daughter decide to run for the
u PAGE 2
2 OctOber 27-29, 2021 • Socal ASIAN JOUrNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797
From the Front Page
FDA panel recommends Pfizer...
PAGE 1 or two of November,” Fauci said in an interview with ABC on Sunday. The vaccine is nearly 91% effective against symptomatic illness among 5- to 11-year-olds, according to Pfizer’s most recent clinical trials for children. The FDA reported that the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the potential risks, like the known side effects associated with the Covid-19 vaccine. While children are still less likely to die or suffer the more severe effects of Covid-19, doctors say that it is still necessary to vaccinate children against Covid-19. Children can still become carriers (symptomatic or asymptomatic) of the virus and spread it to others. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, more than 6 million children have
tested positive for Covid-19 in the United States. According to Dr. William Gruber, senior vice president of vaccine clinical research and development for Pfizer, one dose of the Pfizer vaccine contains about one-third the amount of the active ingredient compared to the adult dose. In an FDA committee hearing, Gruber said that the dosage was chosen to “strike the right balance” between protecting children from the disease and limiting the vaccine’s side effects. But just like with adults, children would receive a second dose 21 days or more after their first shot. According to current Covid19 trends across the country, children aged 5-11 have accounted for 9% of reported Covid-19 cases; according to the FDA, presently constitute about
40% of all pediatric Covid-19 cases. According to the CDC, more than 700 children aged 18 years and younger have died of Covid19 across the country. When the FDA makes its official authorization recommendation, the issue moves on to the CDC which is set to meet Nov. 2 and 3, when it’ll be up to the CDC director to approve the recommendation. As previously reported in the Asian Journal, the decision for children to actually receive their vaccines will be left up to their parents, many of whom are still skeptical on the issue. The Kaiser Family Foundation found in a September poll that about one-third of parents with kids aged 5-11 were willing to vaccinate their kids right away, while another third said they wanted to “wait and see.” n
As ‘substitution’ deadline nears, Dela Rosa meets... PAGE 1 country’s top post — a move that an election lawyer and a right group say might make him a nuisance candidate. The Commission on Elections says saying he is willing to withdraw does not make him a nuisance candidate. Under the Omnibus Election Code, nuisance candidates are those who file certificates of candidacy “to put the election process in mockery or disrepute or to cause confusion among the voters... or by other circumstances or acts which clearly demonstrate that the candidate has no bona fide intention to run for the office for which the certificate of candidacy has been filed.” In the same interview with reporters, he admitted that he was only told that he would run for president three hours before the deadline on the last day for filing certificates of candidacy on October 8. Candidates have until midNovember to withdraw or file as substitute candidates. ICC investigation into “war on drugs” The former chief of the Philippine National Police was director of Davao City Police
when President Rodrigo Duterte was mayor. As PNP chief, he was chief implementer of the Duterte administration’s flagship “war on drugs”, under which official police data says some 6,100 drug suspects were killed in official operations. Alleged crimes against humanity throughout the drug war are now the subject of an investigation by the International Criminal Court. In a separate interview aired over ABS-CBN News Channel, Dela Rosa also said that he will move to protect President Duterte and himself from the investigation by the ICC if elected president. “I will not only protect President Duterte but also myself because we are both co-accused in the case there,” he said then in Filipino, adding that allowing an investigation would be a “slap in the face” of the courts. Although Dela Rosa is named in communications filed before the ICC, the court has only authorized an investigation. There is no decision yet on whether to prosecute. No plans for the presidency yet from Sara Speaking to reporters on
Sunday at the sidelines of a gathering by the League of Municipalities of the Philippines in Liloan, Cebu, DuterteCarpio reiterated that she had no intention of running for president — the same point she has been asserting for months now. “No, I don’t have plans to run for president of the country,” she said in mixed Filipino and English. Pressed for details on meetings with presidential aspirant Marcos in Cebu, Duterte said that they discussed how Davao could help with his presidential bid, and not about forming a possible tandem together. “What we talked about is how we, Region 3 and Davao, can help his bid for the presidency.” But earlier this month, Dela Rosa said that the Davao City chief is “40%” open to the idea, adding that he believes Duterte-Carpio has not made a final decision yet. President Duterte’s own candidacy in 2015 came after saying for months that he had no intention to run for president. He said then that he would retire from politics at the end of his term as mayor of Davao City. n
Boxers Floyd Mayweather Jr., left, and Manny Pacquiao pose for photos after a news conference on March 11, 2015, in Los Angeles. Inquirer.net file photo
Pacquiao, Mayweather to play basketball for...
PAGE 1 choice in time for Christmas. Each Player will assemble a 10-man team, including two exNBA players. “We also aim to generate funds for our chosen charities
this Christmas,” added the letter. Pacquiao and Mayweather, aside from being world champions in the sport, both love to play basketball. Pacquiao is the founder and
CEO of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) in the Philippines and joined the Philippine Basketball Association as the playing coach of Kia Motors Basketball team in 2014. n
Larry Itliong Resource Center opens in... PAGE 1 State Treasurer Fiona Ma. “We remember the heroes who led especially our early farm workers who came here alone often and fought and toiled and fought for change,” said Bonta. “And also so we inspire our next generation to make sure they know people that look like them from their communities fought and made change to this great state and in this nation.” The event included a historical tour of the region and solidarity march and rally from Agbayani Village to Reuther Hall in 40 Acres. Itliong was one of the most important civil rights leaders of the 20th century and a father of the West Coast labor
movement. He was born in the Philippines and migrated to the United States in 1929, working in the Alaskan fish canneries and along the West Coast as a farm laborer. Among Itliong’s achievements include uniting with the National Farm Workers Association (NFWA) and starting the Delano Grape Strike and Boycott, which is one of the most important social justice and labor movements in American history. He also formed the UFW with Chávez, with the latter as director and the former as assistant director. On Oct. 12, Itliong was among the six notable individuals
posthumously inducted into the California Hall of Fame. In addition, California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a proclamation declaring October 25, 2021, as “Larry Itliong Day” in the State. “During Filipino-American Heritage Month, we celebrate the birthday of trailblazing Filipino-American labor leader, organizer and California Hall of Fame Inductee Larry Itliong,” he said in his proclamation. “This month, I had the honor of inducting Mr. Itliong into the California Hall of Fame, recognizing his incredible impact on our state and unapologetic advocacy for those without a voice,” added Newsom. (Ritchel Mendiola/AJPress)
problem DEALING WITH INSURANCE CLAIMS? We’ll take it.*
(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com
Dateline USa
OFF-LIMITS TO KIDS. A security guard intercepts a woman with a minor at the entrance of the Manila Baywalk Dolomite Beach on Tuesday, October 26. Children below 12 years old are now prohibited from visiting the beach. PNA photo by Avito Dalan
Application period begins for $1.2-M 2022 Edison Scholars Program 30 high school seniors to be awarded $40,000 to help them follow their STEM dreams
ROSEMEAD, Calif., Oct. 7, 2021 — High school seniors looking to create a more reliable, resilient and safer world through the study of science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) are invited to apply for Edison International’s $1.2 million Edison Scholars Program. Each year, Edison International, the parent company of Southern California Edison, awards $40,000 scholarships, paid over four years, to 30 high school students who plan to major in designated STEM fields at a four-year accredited U.S. college or university. See the list of eligible STEM majors here. “Students from all backgrounds need support and encouragement, especially when considering a career in STEM,” said Pedro J. Pizarro, president and CEO of Edison International. “We need their ideas, solutions and passion to tackle the challenges facing the energy industry and decarbonizing our economy. The Edison Scholars Program will help students pursue their dreams and power a clean energy future that is just, affordable and equitable for everyone.” Edison International has
awarded an estimated $12.3 million in scholarships to 700 students through the Edison Scholars Program since its inception in 2006. Edison International is accepting scholarship applications through Dec. 13. To apply and obtain additional eligibility information, visit: edisonscholars.com. Applicants must live in SCE’s service area and plan to be a full-time undergraduate student majoring in a STEM field. Eligible students also must be a high school senior, have at least a cumulative 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need. Students from underserved communities and ethnic minorities are encouraged to apply. Dependents of Edison International and SCE employees and retirees are not eligible for the Edison Scholars Program. Scholarship recipients will be announced next spring. They may also be eligible for summer internships at SCE after completing their second year of college. “I was awarded the scholarship in 2014, and then my brother won seven years later,” said Diana Valenzuela currently
an employee at SCE. “Winning the scholarship was life changing for me and my family, and it will be amazing to see the class of 2022 achieve their goals with help from Edison.” Edison International’s support of charitable causes, including the Edison Scholars Program, is funded entirely by Edison International shareholders. SCE customers’ utility bill payments do not fund company donations. About Edison International Edison International (NYSE: EIX) is one of the nation’s largest electric utility holding companies, providing clean and reliable energy and energy services through its independent companies. Headquartered in Rosemead, California, Edison International is the parent company of Southern California Edison Company, a utility that delivers electricity to 15 million people across Southern, Central and Coastal California. Edison International is also the parent company of Edison Energy, a global energy advisory company delivering comprehensive, data-driven energy solutions to commercial and industrial users to meet their cost, sustainability and risk goals. n
SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • OCtObeR 27-29, 2021
Looking for A Real Estate Agent? JASON AGCAOILI 213.608.5837 JASONAREALTOR.com
CA DRE #01947185 | HOMESMART REALTY GROUP
LOS ANGELES METROPOLITAN. SOUTHBAY. beach cities. LONG BEACH MLS #PW21110273
Love Where You Live
$2,300,000 5 bdr / 4 bath, 3188 sq ft Gated Community Cerritos, Ca
3
4 OctOber 27-29, 2021 • Socal ASIAN JOUrNAL
Dateline USa
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797
ConfRonting Ageism in heALth CARe:
A conversation for patients, caregivers and clinicians
TASTE OF CHRISTMAS. A vendor prepares to cook puto bumbong (purple rice cake) at his stall along Eton Centris in Quezon City, exactly 60 days before Christmas on Tuesday, October 26. Steamed in bamboo tubes, puto bumbóng is among popular dishes sold during the Christmas season. PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler
LA county public health inspectors continue to... PAGE 1
tomer vaccination verifications. Public Health utilizes education as the primary step in gaining compliance, and when compliance is not achieved, enforcement may include issuance of a notice of violation or a citation. Between October 16 and October 22, two citations were issued to schools for noncompliance with Health Officer Orders. Violations of safety requirements and dangerous conditions can be reported anonymously to Public Health by phone at 888-700-9995 or online at www.publichealth. lacounty.gov . Today, Public Health confirms 5 new deaths and 679 new cases of COVID-19. The number of cases and deaths reflect reporting delays over the weekend. Of the five new deaths reported today, three people who passed away were over the age of 80, and two people who died were between the ages of 50 and 64. To date, Public Health has identified 1,485,769 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of L.A. County and a total of 26,552 deaths. There are 610 people with COVID-19 currently hospitalized. Testing results are available for nearly 9,000,000 individuals with 15% of people testing positive. Today’s test positivity rate is 0.8%. “To the people across our community mourning the passing of a loved one, we wish you healing and peace,” said
Barbara Ferrer, PhD, MPH, MEd, Director of Public Health. “I am grateful that the vast majority of businesses continue to follow the sensible protections in the State and County Health Officer Orders that help ensure our collective well-being and economic recovery. Thanks as well to the tens of thousands of patrons who are doing their part - getting vaccinated and wearing masks as required. Reducing transmission depends on high compliance with existing safety measures.” Boosters are available for eligible individuals for all three FDA-approved vaccines; Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. Appointments are not needed at all Public Health vaccination sites where first, second, and third doses are available. Los Angeles County residents eligible for a booster dose of Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine include those who received the second of the two-dose vaccine series at least 6 months ago and are either: •65 years and older • Age 18 and older who live in long-term care settings • Age 18 and older who have underlying medical conditions • Age 18 and older who work or live in high-risk settings For people who received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, booster shots are also recommended for those who are 18 and older and were vaccinated two or more months ago.
Vaccinations are always free and open to eligible residents and workers regardless of immigration status. Visit: www.VaccinateLACounty.com (English) and www.VacunateLosAngeles. com (Spanish) to find a vaccination site near you, make an appointment at vaccination sites, and much more. If you don’t have internet access, can’t use a computer, or you’re over 65, you can call 1-833-540-0473 for help finding an appointment, connecting to free transportation to and from a vaccination site, or scheduling a home-visit if you are homebound. Vaccinated middle and high school students are eligible for free UCLA football tickets. UCLA has partnered with Public Health to give away free tickets to a UCLA football game at the Rose Bowl to middle or high school students in L.A. County who’ve received at least one dose of a COVID19 vaccine, while tickets last. Students aged 12 to 18 who’ve received at least one dose can sign up for the free tickets online by visiting: http://ph.lacounty. gov/DPHUCLAVaxforTix. COVID-19 Sector Protocols, Best Practices, COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboard, COVID19 Surveillance Interactive Dashboard, Recovery Dashboard, and additional actions you can take to protect yourself, your family and your community are on the Public Health website, www. publichealth.lacounty.gov. n
WHAT does ageism in health care look like? It can be a thoughtless quip that makes an older person feel diminished. Or an assumption that patients are unable to follow a conversation or make their own decisions. Maybe it occurs when a concern is voiced, then discounted or dismissed. Ageism is reflected in care strategies that ignore a patient’s values and ideas about what constitutes a productive life. Too often, attitudes such as “these patients are old and near the end anyway” or “there’s not much we can do to help them” prevail. Ageism is not new, but the covid pandemic brought it shockingly into view. In its early days, the virus was shrugged off as something of concern mostly to older people, with some arguing they were expendable if the alternative was shutting down the economy. In the grave months that followed,
many who died in nursing care were dehumanized in news reports that showed body bags piled outside facilities. To date, about 80% of those who have died of covid-19 have been older adults, including nearly 140,000 nursing home residents — a population beset by understaffing, inadequate infection control and neglect. KHN and The John A. Hartford Foundation held a web event Thursday. Judith Graham, KHN’s Navigating Aging columnist, hosted the discussion. She was joined by: Dr. Louise Aronson, a geriatrician, professor of medicine at the University of California-San Francisco and author of “Elderhood.” Dr. Michael Wasserman, a geriatrician, advocate for vulnerable older adults during the pandemic and leader of the public policy committee of the California Association of Long Term Care Medi-
cine. Dr. Javette Orgain, a family physician and medical director for Longevity Health Plan of Illinois, which serves nursing home residents; former president of the National Medical Association, which represents African American physicians and their patients; and former assistant dean of the University of Illinois-Chicago’s Urban Health Program. Dr. Rebecca Elon, a geriatrician and caregiver for her mother, who has dementia, and husband, who died earlier this year. Jess Maurer, a lawyer and executive director of the Maine Council on Aging, which promotes an anti-ageism pledge. California Healthline is a service of the California Health Care Foundation produced by Kaiser Health News, an editorially independent program of the Kaiser Family Foundation. n
Report: Apple threatened facebook ban... PAGE 1 from Saudi Arabia, and about a quarter from Egypt. And while Facebook disabled over 1,000 accounts on its websites, it acknowledged that it was “under-enforcing on confirmed abusive activity” that saw Filipina maids complaining on the social media site of being abused. The move convinced Apple to relent and allow Facebook and Instagram to remain in the app store. However, the AP noted that Facebook’s crackdown had a “limited effect.” “Even today, a quick search for ‘khadima,’ or ‘maids’ in Arabic, will bring up accounts featuring posed photographs of Africans and South Asians with ages and prices listed next to their images,” it said. “That’s even as the Philippines government has a team of workers that do nothing but scour Facebook posts each day to try and protect desperate job seekers from criminal gangs and unscrupulous recruiters using the site,” it added. Despite the continued spread of
ads exploiting foreign workers in the Mideast, Facebook maintained that it took the problem seriously. “We prohibit human exploitation in no uncertain terms,” it said in a statement to the AP. “We’ve been combating human trafficking on our platform for many years and our goal remains to prevent anyone who seeks to exploit others from having a home on our platform,” it added. Still, the AP pointed out that Facebook’s daunting size and user base around the world “proves to be its greatest weakness in trying to police illicit activity, such as the sale of drugs, and suspected human rights and labor abuses on its site.” Filipina Mary Ann Abunda of the Sandigan in Kuwait warned of the dangers that Facebook can pose. “Facebook really has two faces now,” she said as quoted by the AP. “Yes, as it advertises, it’s connecting people, but it has also become a haven of sinister people and syndicates who wait for your weak moment to pounce on you.” One Filipina housemaid in Kuwait told the AP of her
experience in being “sold” to another family through an Instagram post in December 2012. “I was like an animal that was being traded by one owner to another,” she said. “If Facebook and Instagram won’t take stronger steps against this anomaly, there will be more victims like me. I was lucky because I did not end up dead or a sexual slave,” she added. For its part, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) acknowledged that individuals who want to go abroad trust Facebook more than the private recruiting agencies monitored by the government. According to POEA Administrator Bernard Olalia, some job seekers mistakenly believe that the agency endorses some of the Facebook and Instagram accounts due to misuse of the office’s logo. He added that his office for the last two years had a direct line to Facebook to be able to flag suspicious accounts, but “even that isn’t enough.” “It will affect their income so they don’t want to address this,” Olalia added. n
Renewal process begins for Covered...
PAGE 1 “Covered California continues to meet the needs of the state’s diverse population during this pandemic and heads into the upcoming open-enrollment period next month with more enrollees than ever,” said Peter V. Lee, executive director of Covered California. “The surge in enrollment is driven by the increased financial help and lower monthly premiums made possible by the American Rescue Plan, which is helping more Californians than ever to get access to quality and affordable health care – no matter their income level.” New financial help and credits available to lower monthly health plan costs to $0 The American Rescue Plan provides new and expanded financial help that will be available throughout 2022, which will help Californians across all income levels. The financial help covers about 90% of a consumer’s monthly health insurance premiums, making the cost of health coverage more affordable than ever before. It’s important to note that you can only get this financial help through Covered California. Covered California also estimates that about 1 million of its existing members will be eligible for coverage at no cost because of a new state law called the California Premium Credit. The new law means that some consumers will be able to get the same comprehensive health coverage – with all the benefits and protections of the Affordable Care Act – for free, and the State of California will be providing a credit of $1 per member per month for all Covered California members throughout 2022. “Getting more people insured,
and keeping them insured, not only leads to better health outcomes – it also lowers the cost of health insurance for everyone,” Lee said. Current Covered California enrollees can begin renewing their health coverage now, and they have until Dec. 31 to renew their existing health plan or make changes to their plans for 2022. People who do not actively select a plan for next year will be renewed in their current health plan, so they do not suffer a gap in coverage. When consumers renew their coverage, many will find that they have more choices to choose from this year. Three of Covered California’s health insurance companies will be expanding their coverage areas, and a new company will be joining the marketplace, bringing the total number of health carriers to 12 for 2022. These are brand-name health insurance companies — Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Bright Health Care, Chinese Community Health Plan, Healthnet, Kaiser, L.A. Care, Molina Healthcare, Oscar, Sharp Health Plan, Valley Health Care, Western Health Advantage — who offer quality care through some of the best doctors and hospitals in the state. Free preventive health care available Not only will renewing consumers have choice of health plans, but they should be reminded that Covered California health plans are designed to make it easier for someone to get the preventive health care they need for free – including annual physicals, COVID-19 testing and vaccinations, flu shots and all other immunizations, and screenings for diabetes, high
blood pressure, and cancer. With many Asian Americans dealing from chronic health conditions, including diabetes and cancer, these preventive health care services and screenings can literally be lifesaving. And with October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, such preventive health care services are top of mind for many people. Free mammograms are always available to women with Covered California health plans, and early detection of breast cancer is key. In addition, Covered California health plans offer free video telehealth visits with primary care physicians, along with free mental health care and substance abuse services, of particular importance during these challenging times. Easily Renew Your Health Coverage for 2022 Covered California members renewing health insurance for 2022 should go to CoveredCA.com, log in to your account and click on the “RENEW” button. You may also use the Shop and Compare Tool to see your health plan options and cost. It is important to review your health plan during the renewal period because you could receive additional financial help from the American Rescue Plan to lower the monthly cost of health insurance. This means you may now qualify for financial help, even if you didn’t in the past. Or you may receive even more help than you did before! The amount of financial help you may get depends on your income, age, where you live and your family size. For questions or additional help renewing your Covered California health plan, contact an enrollment expert in your area for free assistance or call Covered California (800) 3001506. n
(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com
Dateline USa
SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • OCtObeR 27-29, 2021
Dateline PhiliPPines
5
DOH: Plans underway for COVID-19 booster shots in PH series. “The rationale for the set threshold prior to implementaTHE Philippines is eyeing tion of booster includes ensurbooster shots of the COVID-19 ing maximum coverage for the vaccine for its priority groups primary series as the premature such as healthcare workers and rollout of booster vaccination senior citizens. Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire on Monday, October 25, said that the country’s Health Secretary Francisco Duque III has approved the recommendation of the Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC) to offer booster shots and additional vaccines. She also said that the Philippine Department of Health is discussing the booster rollout during the last three months of 2021. “Lahat naman ng plano ay underway na tulad naman ng sabi namin sa inyo (All plans are underway and like what we told you) we will have this third doses for the immunocompromised, senior citizens and our boosters for our healthcare workers,” she said. However, Vergeire noted that an emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is still required. “Pero kailangan po aantayin pa rin nating lahat ang emergency use authority na manggagaling sa (But we need to wait for the emergency use authority from the) Food and Drug Administration,” she said. “While waiting for the EUA we’re already planning and discussing how we can go about with the implementation,” she added. Under the HTAC’s recommendation, booster shots will be given by the end of the year to healthcare workers and senior citizens, provided that they have completed the primary COVID-19 vaccine series at least six months before. The booster shots could also be expanded to other eligible priority groups including those from A3 (people with comorbidities), A4 (economic frontliners), and A5 (poor population) by 2022, but only if an acceptable vaccine vaccination coverage or 50% have completed the initial by Ritchel
Mendiola AJPress
SFIO’s The Global Academy in partnership with FPACC aims to guide businesses in their journey of digital transformation THE existence of the COVID-19 pandemic has lasted for almost two years, forcing the world to live in a “new normal.” Due to the constant lockdowns, businesses have been forced to close their doors under lockdown restrictions that have put most entrepreneurs in very difficult situations. To sustain the business, entrepreneurs have had to stay ahead of the curve, make necessary changes, and be creative during the pandemic – critical actions they have needed to do for their businesses to pull through. Undoubtedly, technology has been a great help for the business to stay afloat; some businesses have performed even better than before with the support of technology. Most of the businesses moved online to protect their cash flow, their businesses, their staff and themselves. SFIO’s “The Global Academy” (TGA) headed by its CEO, Jonathan Petalver, is proud to present a new partnership with the Federation of Philippine American Chamber of Commerce (FPACC) to build business leaders and digital entrepreneurs. The establishment of a new relationship with FPACC is to support its thrust to develop business owners’ mindset to stay ahead in this new digital economy. Transitioning into a new way of running a business has always been a challenge. The academy teaches business owners how to utilize their products with an improved process and digitalize it through a suitable platform, shortening the time of trials and lessening the failures as theyt embark on their digital business. We know the pain of going through the transition period. Hence, we would like to enable our kababayans to have a solid foundation in operating a digital business in the long term. The course is sponsored by SFIO and SAM.
The strategic learning provider, The Global Academy New Zealand, will provide coaching and training about digitalizing the product, process and platform. The coaching session will equip business owners with ways to thrive and stay ahead by transforming their business organizations digitally in this new economy. The course of digital business will guide them from product to process and eventually to operate their businesses on different digital platforms to stay competitive in this new business and economic environment. There are new strategies and practices required as most consumers move dramatically to online platforms nowadays. Digital transformation will be the core element to stabilize the business operation in the future. SFIO aims to create future-readiness and resilience for entrepreneurs, while TGA sets out to reset, reboot and reprogram the mindsets of FPACC members to be well-prepared entrepreneurs and welcome the ultimate “new normal” of reopening for future business. SFIO has gone through the same process of digital transformation which enabled it to become a global leader. Throughout the program designed by TGA, we are confident that our business owners will be trained with strong foundations to be able to operate a steady digital version of sustainable business. TGA equips them through business coaching to stay ahead and thrive amidst this COVID-19 pandemic. TGA is looking for Strategic Entrep Coaches to reach out to as many kababayans for 2022. This is to raise interest for those who already became successful in the U.S. and would like to be part of TGA globally. (Advertising Supplement)
without attaining acceptable coverage would exacerbate existing inequities,” said the HTAC. Further, the council recommended an additional dose for u PAGE 7
6 OCTOBER 27-29, 2021 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797
OPiniOn
Safe campaigning
FeatURes
WITH certificates of candidacy filed, and with the Supreme Court ruling that there is no such thing as premature campaigning, candidates have started raising their profiles for the 2022 general elections. The campaigning will be conducted even as COVID-19 continues to rage, with the coronavirus continually mutating and posing risks of resurgence. Candidates and supporters must be mindful of those continuing risks, especially in areas with low vaccination rates. Even in Metro Manila, sufficient vaccination for herd protection has not yet been attained. The Delta variant is also infecting even children and accounting for breakthrough infections and deaths even among the fully vaccinated. While social media can be widely used for safe campaigning, most politicians still see the need for face-to-face pitching of their candidacies. Since the filing of candidacies, political gatherings have started, with meetings, marches and motorcades being staged. Candidates must take full responsibility for ensuring that such gatherings will not turn into COVID superspreader events. They will have to coordinate closely with authorities for such activities, to ensure strict compliance with COVID safety protocols. The Metropolitan Manila Development
Authority, for example, has advised politicians to get a permit for motorcades, if only for traffic management, since holiday traffic is building up in the capital region. While the country is now at low risk for COVID19, as declared by the Department of Health, it is not yet time to let down one’s guard. A coronavirus sub-variant said to be about 10 times more contagious than Delta has started spreading in the United Kingdom and nearly 30 other countries including the United States. In the meantime, vaccine efficacies are waning for those who were first in line for the shots, raising their risk of breakthrough infections. Last year, COVID cases also dropped dramatically with the approach of the holidays. The country happily prepared for economic revival during summer, with travel restrictions eased and tourist destinations reopened. And then the Alpha and Beta variants struck, beginning in late March and bringing sickness and death through the summer. After 19 months of restrictions, people have
Editorial
The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS I AM BACK! Good to share with you what I have been up to in my monthlong hiatus from writing articles for this column. I just arrived from Spain to go on the Camino de Santiago spiritual pilgrimage, after almost two years of delay because of the coronavirus pandemic. Last year, the European Union, and even countries like our Motherland the Philippines, closed its borders to us, the people of the United States, because we were classified as high risk in spreading COVID-19 and its variants to their people. The richest, most powerful nation in the world that other nations looked up to in our leadership in combatting infectious diseases became a hotspot of the pandemic, thanks but no thanks to the former administration’s failure in leadership because of its aversion to science. The former president and his minions thought the truth about the coronavirus pandemic was getting in the way of their political ambition to be re-elected and remain in power, and consequently, the United States failed to mitigate the spread of the virus early enough. Thankfully, under the Biden Administration, saving lives became top priority again and science became our basis and tool in formulating policies and implementing programs to defeat the invisible enemy and lead
Philstar.com photo
become used to COVID safety protocols. So it shouldn’t be such a challenge to maintain strict adherence to masking, physical distancing and other safety measures during campaign activities. Surely
candidates themselves don’t want themselves and their supporters getting sick, or worse, from their gatherings for the 2022 race. They should all reach the finish line healthy and safe. (Philstar.com)
The US’ slow but steady safe pace in defeating COVID-19 opens the gateway to our freedom of navigation us toward the “normal” life we have been missing. Fast forward to the present, the Mayo Clinic reports that as of October 25, 66.7% of Americans are now vaccinated with at least one dose, and 57.7% are now fully vaccinated, especially in light of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) full approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in August. CDC has also recommended everyone 12 years and older should get vaccinated to help protect against the virus. According to the agency, widespread vaccination is a critical tool to help stop the pandemic and help us go back to the life as we knew it before 2020. While compared to adults, fewer children have been infected with COVID-19, the CDC explained that children can also be infected with the virus, get sick and spread COVID-19 to others. And because of the Delta variant and new scientific information about the deminishing antibody levels with time, the FDA on October 20 expands authorizations for COVID-19 vaccine booster doses for eligible populations who received Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and for Janssen COVID19 vaccine recipients 18 and older. As of press time today, October 26, the FDA’s Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee just announced amendment to the Pfizer-BioNTech’s Emergency
Use Authorization of their COVID-19 mRNA vaccine to children 5 through 11 years of age. This decision comes after the agency reviewed data released by Pfizer on October 22that showed a kid-sized, two-dose regimen of the Pfizer’s vaccine is safe and 90.7% effective against symptomatic illness from the virus in children ages 5 to 11 years old. These new developments, coupled with a more unified effort to practice safety measures like wearing mask, social distancing and avoiding crowds especially in indoor setting, have taken us to a more optimistic place with a greater fighting chance toward victory. Hence, the EU has once again opened its borders to American tourists who are fully vaccinated with vaccines approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the EU that was why many of us in America have had the privilege of traveling again. We felt safe with strict implementation of other travel safety requirements like getting a negative COVID-19 test taken 72 hours for PCR and 48 hours for rapid test antigen, and wearing masks, observing social distancing. The United States has also announced it is opening its borders to vaccinated international tourists, and this is great news for us to see our family and friends again from the Philippines and elsewhere aound the world! Travel.State.Gov announced: Starting on November 8, for-
eign national air travelers to the United States will be required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to fly to the United States, with only limited exceptions. The CDC has determined that for the purposes of entry into the United States, vaccines accepted will include those FDA approved or authorized, as well as vaccines with an emergency use listing (EUL) from the World Health Organization (WHO). See the CDC’s website for more details. Fully vaccinated air travelers will continue to be required to show documentation of a pre-departure negative viral test from a sample taken within three days of travel to the United States before boarding. That includes all travelers – U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (LPRs), and foreign nationals. To further strengthen protections, unvaccinated travelers – whether U.S. citizens, LPRs, or the small number of excepted unvaccinated foreign nationals – will now need to show documentation of a negative viral test from a sample taken within one day of travel to the United States. As the State Department stated, “As long as the virus is spreading anywhere, it is a threat to people everywhere, including Americans here at home. That’s why earlier this year, President Joe Biden announced that the United States will share over
580 million doses with countries around the world”. “America will be the arsenal of vaccines in our global fight against COVID-19, just as America was the arsenal of democracy in World War II”, President Biden said. Reclaiming our leadership in the international community that we lost during the Trump presidency, the Biden Administration recognizes the fact that “COVID-19 is a global challenge that requires a global response. Together, we will lead the world out of this pandemic.” The State Department also stated: “The United Statuses exercising diplomatic leadership to mobilize an international response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its secondary impacts while strengthening global biosecurity infrastructure to address both the current crisis and future health related threats.” WE, the PEOPLE, should also be part of the solution and not the problem, and always think in terms of what is for the greater good, not just in the present time but always until the future. This is what we need to learn more from Spain. During the time we were there, most of the people of Spain observed safety measures and would remind others, including tourists to follow the same especially in enclosed places, for the safety of all people in their country. Spain has vaccinated 80.2% of its population with at least one
dose, and 78.6% are fully vaccinated. Nearing 90% of its target population, Spain has really been successful in controlling the spread of the virus. From an all time high of 35,475 in January 2021, Spain is now down to a 7-day average of 1863. Spain has a population of 47,431, 256. Can we do the same? Let us not go too far . Look at California — home to the most number of Filipinos in the U.S. and outside of the Philippines. Statewide, 72.6% of people in California are now fully vaccinated, with 7.8% partially vaccinated. Of course, we can do more. We can do better. If we start thinking more of the good of all, less than what is good for me. If we keep on reminding ourselves this is the only patriotic and Christian way to go to save lives and go back to normalcy. Remember: we are all in this together. *** 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.
*** Gel Santos Relos has been in news, talk, public service and educational broadcasting since 1989 with ABS-CBN and is now serving the Filipino audience using different platforms, including digital broadcasting, and print, and is working on a new public service program for the community. You may contact her through email at gelrelos@icloud.com, or send her a message via Facebook at Facebook.com/Gel. Santos.Relos.
Why the Marcos brand remains popular
Horizons
RICHARD HEYDARIAN TWO of the world’s “impossible professions,” according to Sigmund Freud, are education and politics. His German contemporary, Max Weber, further built on the idea by delivering two famous lectures in Munich during the final days of the First World War. Quality education and true scholarship, Weber explained, have been compromised due to a “precarious quasi-proletarian existence,” while “there are a lot of mediocrities in leading university positions.” If anything, education itself demanded a rare kind of passionate commitment, which is “mocked by all who do not share it,” and is ultimately a lonely profession where “success is by no means guaranteed.” As for statesmanship, it’s another thankless vocation, where
there is a constant struggle to “make an impression” on donors and the general public without compromising one’s convictions and political calling. Weber warned that even the best of statesmen could succumb to vanity, which he described as “the deadly enemy of any commitment to one’s goals.” The German thinker was speaking at a time when the future of his country was at peril, precisely because of the ossification of its educational and state institutions, which are the bedrock of any vibrant society. Not long after Weber’s passing, the well-meaning yet feeble Weimar Republic collapsed under the pressure of polarized and increasingly authoritarian politics, leading to the rise of Nazism. In many ways, the gathering storm of authoritarian nostalgia, and the growing appeal of the heirs of our former dictator, can be explained along a simi-
lar axis. Our political leaders as well as our educators also fell far short in accomplishing their basic duties following the collapse of Ferdinand Marcos’ regime more than three decades earlier. What we have sorely lacked in the aftermath is a generation of fully-committed statesmen and educators who could deftly combine, to use Weber’s categories, the “ethics of personal conviction” with the “ethics of responsibility.” In retrospect, the 1986 people power protests were supposed to be the beginning, rather than the culmination, of a true revolution in our society following centuries of feudalistic politics and extractive economics. The late 1980s following the Edsa revolt was a period of immense turbulence, with half a dozen failed coups rocking the Cory Aquino presidency. But it was also a time of great opportunity for the true transfor-
mation of the Philippines. For almost a year following the demise of the Marcos dictatorship until the promulgation of a new constitution, there was an unprecedented window to enact radical reforms, including the abolition of oligarchies in key sectors of the economy. Instead, what we got was the swift restoration of the old liberal elite, many of whom ended up reasserting their grip not only on the pillars of the economy but also on the vital organs of the state. The 1987 Constitution, for instance, didn’t even bother to institute automatic laws against the proliferation of predatory political dynasties, nor did it insulate key sectors of the economy from oligarchic capture (or recapture). As a result, the Philippines, even in subsequent periods of high economic growth, struggled to create truly inclusive development—thus sowing the seeds of long-term discon-
tent, which is fueling authoritarian populism nowadays. As for our judicial institutions, the picture is equally depressing, given the depth of generalized impunity and the systematic lack of accountability in the state apparatus. Thus, soon enough, the scions of the former dictatorship managed to seamlessly return to the country and, accordingly, begin clawing their way back to power. The post-Edsa administrations all fell woefully short of ensuring that our basic education curricula instilled critical thinking and soulful awareness of our not-so-distant dark past. Instead, what we got was not only an army of underpaid teachers, but also a broadly whitewashed version of history that overlooked the horrors of martial law and the catastrophic economics of a crooked, incompetent dictatorship. A whole coterie of self-aggrandizing academics and mer-
cenary influencers have since established a new cottage industry of historical revisionism and denialism. To use the words of Noam Chomsky, these are the “champions of the strong,” who in our case shamelessly question the real and present plight of countless victims of martial law in the name of supposed “academic skepticism.” A century earlier, Weber called on true statesmen and active citizens to step up to the plate and “reach for the impossible,” since “[p]olitics is struggle” and freedom demands sacrifice and devotion. Nothing could be more true when it comes to our besieged democracy today. (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.
*** rheydarian@inquirer.com.ph
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal. ADVERTISING AND ADVERTORIAL POLICIES ROGER LAGMAY ORIEL Publisher & Chairman of the Board
CORA MACABAGDAL-ORIEL President
CHRISTINA M. ORIEL Editor-in-Chief
MOMAR G. VISAYA Executive Editor
US HEADQUARTERS: 1210 S. Brand Blvd Glendale, CA 91204 Tels: (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 Fax: (818) 502-0858 • (213) 481-0854 e-mail: info@asianjournalinc.com http://www.asianjournal.com
IVY MANALANG Vice President - Marketing Los Angeles Asian Journal
MONETTE ADEVA MAGLAYA Senior Vice President Los Angeles Asian Journal
With offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York/New Jersey Las Vegas, San Diego, Philippines
DING CARREON Videographer
ANDY TECSON Photographer
Asian Journal Publications, Inc. (“AJPI”) reserves the right to refuse to publish, in its sole and absolute discretion, any advertising and advertorial material submitted for publication by client. (“Client’s Material”) Submission of an advertisement or advertorial to an AJPI sales representative does not constitute a commitment by AJPI to publish a Client’s Material. AJPI has the option to correctly classify any Client’s Material and to delete objectionable words or phrases. Client represents and warrants that a Client’s Material does not and will not contain any language or material which is libelous, slanderous or defamatory or invades any rights of privacy or publicity; does not and will not violate or infringe upon, or give rise to any adverse claim with respect to any common law or other right whatsoever (including, without limitation, any copyright, trademark, service mark or contract right) of any person or entity, or violate any other applicable law; and is not the subject of any litigation or claim that might give rise to any litigation. Publication of a Client’s Material does not constitute an agreement 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 suffer by reason of (1) Client’s breach of any of the representations, warranties and agreements herein or (2) any Claims by any third party relating in any way to Client’s Material. AJPI will not be liable for failure to publish any Client’s Material as requested or for more than one incorrect insertion of a Client’s Material. In the event of an error, or omission in printing or publication of a Client’s Material, AJPI shall be limited to an adjustment for the space occupied by the error, with maximum liability being cancellation of the cost of the first incorrect advertisement or republication of the correct advertisement. Under no circumstances shall Asian Publications, Inc. be liable for consequential damages of any kind. ASIAN JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS, INC. publishes the Los Angeles Asian Journal, published twice a week; the Orange County and Inland Empire Asian Journal, Northern California Asian Journal, Las Vegas Asian Journal and the New York / New Jersey Asian Journal which are published once a week and distributed to Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange Counties, Northern California, Las Vegas and New York and New Jersey respectively. Articles published in this paper do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Letters to the Editor are welcome. Letters must contain complete name and return address. The materials, however, are subject to editing and revisions. Contributions and advertising deadlines are every Mondays and Thursdays. For advertising rates and other informations, please call the L.A. office at (213) 250-9797 or send us an email at info@asianjournalinc.com
(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com
Dateline PHiliPPineS
SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • OCtObeR 27-29, 2021
7
PSA: Fewer births, more deaths logged from January-August 2021 than same period in 2020 by John
eRic MendoZa ManilaTimes.net
MANILA — Fewer children were born, while more people were reported to have died in 2021 compared to the previous period last year, preliminary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) revealed. Data showed that 703,400 children were born from January to August 2021, compared to 981,270 births in the same period last year. This means that the first three quarters
of 2021 recorded the fewest birth in 35 years for that period. A total of 1,528,739 births were reported in the country for 2020, according to PSA. Most births in the Philippines in 2020 averaged 100,000 a month, but most births occurred in September with 146,505 births. More deaths were also reported in 2021 compared to the same period last year. There were 486,401 recorded deaths from January to August in 2021, compared to
400,501 reported mortalities in the same period in 2020. The total number of deaths in 2020 is 613,942. Marriage Despite the crisis brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the PSA recorded more marriages compared to the same period last year. There were 211,247 marriages from January to August 2021, compared to 147,536 during the same period last year. The total number of marriages last year is at 240,775. ■
PNP-NBI deal to probe criminal, admin liabilities in ‘drug war’ deaths seen signed in November by KRiStine JoY
Philstar.com
PataG
MANILA — Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said the memorandum of agreement between the National Bureau of Investigation and Philippine National Police on simultaneous administrative and criminal probes into deadly “war on drugs” operations may be signed in November. On Tuesday, October 26, Guevarra said they are expecting comments from the NBI and PNP this week. “Then we can finalize,” he told reporters in a message. “We hope that the NBI and the PNP would be able to sign their MOA before PNP chief [Guillermo Eleazar’s] retirement,” Guevarra added. Eleazar is set to retire on November 13, when he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56. By then, he would have served as PNP chief for six months. Under Eleazar’s stint as police chief, the PNP gave access to 52 files from its Internal Affairs Services, which found police of-
ficers directly liable over deaths in “drug war” operations. The files became part of the DOJ’s ongoing review of the “war on drugs” campaign. The DOJ matrix of the 52 cases showed that police officers involved in “war on drugs” operations that happened as far back as 2016 have yet to be investigated for criminal liability. After the review, Guevarra said early in October that the PNP and the DOJ, through the NBI, “will institutionalize cooperation in investigating similar instances in the future, so that both administrative and criminal liabilities, if any, are determined simultaneously.” Next PNP chief Guevarra also previously said that Eleazar has committed to cooperating in the examination of the thousands of other case files of deadly “war on drugs” operations. Latest government figures acknowledge the deaths of 6,191 peeople in anti-narcotics operations. The government has maintained that those who were killed had resisted arrest but the DOJ-led review has raised
questions on the “nanlaban” narrative used by the police. Asked if there is a possibility that Eleazar’s successor would take a different stance on the review of “war on drugs” operations, Guevarra noted President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to both of their agencies. “The president has a standing order to the DOJ and the PNP to review the conduct of the drug war and to impose sanctions upon those who went beyond the bounds of the law,” he said. “I expect that the next PNP chief, whoever he may be, will strictly comply with the president’s directive,” Guevarra continued. In the face of an investigation by the International Criminal Court, President Rodrigo Duterte reminded state leaders at the United Nations in September that he had ordered a review of the “drug war” deaths. He said then that “those found to have acted beyond bounds during operations shall be made accountable before our laws.” ■
DOH: Plans underway for COVID-19... PAGE 5 immunocompromised individuals at least 28 days after completing their initial vaccine series. Among those are individuals receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of
the blood, those receiving an organ transplant, those with advanced or untreated human immunodeficiency virus or HIV infection, those with rare disease, and dialysis patients. According to the HTAC, getting
the same brand of the initial COVID-19 shots for an individual’s third dose is recommended, but the vaccine from Pfizer-BioNTech may be used for those who had been injected with AstraZeneca, CoronaVac, and Moderna jabs. ■
When you GET VACCINATED you have greater protection against hospitalization and death.
WEAR A MASK when it can protect you & others.
GET TESTED & STAY HOME when you feel sick.
Find a COVID-19 vaccine near you MyTurn.ca.gov
833-422-4255
APOR’S RIDE. An authorized person outside residence (APOR) signs on the contact tracing form inside the modern public utility vehicle (PUB) on Zabarte Road, Quezon City on Tuesday, October 19. The modern PUV is one of the service contracting free rides by the Land Transportation Office and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board that traverses Caloocan City to Fairview and vice versa. PNA photo by Ben Briones
Carlos Yulo wins gold by niel
VictoR c. MaSoY ManilaTimes.net
FILIPINO gymnast Carlos Yulo ruled the vault event final round to win a gold medal at the 50th FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships at the Kitakyushu General Gymnasium in Japan on Sunday, October 24. Yulo scored an average of 14.916 points after an exquisite performance, which saw him record 14.800 points for his first vault and 15.033 for his second. Eager to bounce back after failing to defend his floor exercise title on Saturday, Yulo showed he’s on a mission right away as he executed a near flawless three-twirl act in mid-air for his first vault. The 21-year-old, who placed third in the vault’s qualification phase with 14.808 points, then bolstered his chances of winning the event with an impeccable Dragulescu in the second vault where he launched himself high for multiple body rolls on the way down. Japanese Hidenobu Yonukera claimed the silver medal with an average of 14.866 points, while Israeli Andrey Medvedev captured the bronze with 14.649. Italian Thomas Grasso placed fourth with 14.549 points,
Filipino gymnast Carlos Yulo shows his floor exercise gold medal and vault bronze medal at the 2021 All Japan Senior and Masters Gymnastics Championships held last month in Japan. Photo courtesy of Coach Munehiro Kugimiya
as South Korean Yang Hakseon landed at fifth place with 14.399. British Courtney Tulloch ranked sixth with 14.383 points, while Ukrainian Nazar Chepurnyi took the seventh spot with 14.149, and Canadian William Emard placed last with 13.199 points. Yulo has now won two gold medals in the World Championships — the first one being the floor exercise event in 2019 which keyed his Tokyo Olympic
qualification. Two hours after getting the gold, Yulo won a silver medal in the parallel bars at the same event. Yulo, who topped the qualification phase of parallel bars with 15.566 points, scored 15.300 points this time around to finish as runner-up to champion Chinese Hu Xuwei who tallied 15.466 points. Chinese Shi Cong took home the bronze medal with a score of 15.066 points. ■
8 OctOber 27-29, 2021 • Socal ASIAN JOUrNAL
Dateline PhiliPPines
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797
WHO: 3 million elderly Filipinos still unvaccinated vs COVID-19
MANILA— Around three million elderly Filipinos, among those who are most vulnerable to COVID-19, have yet to be vaccinated, the World Health Organization said Monday, October 25. In Monday’s Laging Handa briefing, Dr. Rabindra Abeyasinghe — WHO representative to the Philippines — urged local government units to prioritize those among the priority groups who have yet to receive a single dose against COVID-19 along with the simultaneous vaccination of the general adult population. “This is what [the] position is now, to maximize the benefit of third dose in those groups who will be receiving third dose — but, again, the priority is to give first second doses to those who have not been able to get a single shot, which is about three million — unfortunately — still in the Philippines, among the elderly,” he said. On the same day the DOH approved the Health Technology Assessment Council’s proposal for COVID-19 booster shots for health workers and elderly, while
immunocompromised patients are recommended to get an additional or third jab. Abeyasinghe said that the WHO recommended an additional dose to immunocompromised people as they are not capable of sustaining the level of immunity to protect themselves against severe COVID-19 cases. Elderly Filipinos who received Sinovac or Sinopharm doses are also recommended to receive an additional jab. For inoculation of the elderly, he said, the government should start giving the third dose to the most severely immunocompromised who are those aged over 80, then over 70, then over 60. Vaccine equity The Philippines’ vaccination program, which started in March, has now moved to cover the general adult population. Inoculation of adolescents also started this month. While Abeyasinghe said WHO believes that inoculation of minors outside Metro Manila may proceed, he also urged the Philippine government to be mindful in
vaccine equity, especially areas outside Metro Manila and other major cities. “WHO has raised previously several times its concerns that we do not see equity; we see an inequitable situation with regards to access to vaccines in provinces and regions outside NCR and major cities, especially to most vulnerable,” he said, adding that the elderly and those with comorbidity comprise 30-40% of the population in many of the regions. The Department of the Interior and Local Government last week said around 7.9 million or 81.4% of the eligible population in the NCR are now fully vaccinated. “With the increase in [the] avail- GLOSSY FINISH. A worker applies varnish on a wooden cheese plate at a stall in Dangwa, Manila on Tuesday, October 26. Several vendors ability of vaccines, we continue to are allowed to operate their business as long as they observe the health protocols such as wearing a face mask to prevent the spread of PNA photo by Rico H. Borja urge the local government units in the coronavirus disease. those regions to make sure that as they rollout vaccine, they ensure prioritization is also followed,” he added. “This is critically important because we still believe we need to be very careful with dealing with the ongoing Delta experience MANILA — Chinese ships ing back up to the levels seen of vessels fell back to 15 in Auin the regions,” Abeyasinghe seen in areas of the Philip- earlier in March. gust before rising again to 30 in continued. (Philstar.com) “When international outcry or late September,” AMTI said. pines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) only to relocate when patrols by other claimants conThe think tank added that it called out is “evidence of [their] vince them to leave a disputed found no visible Automatic Idenshell game in the Spratly Is- feature, they disperse to nearby tification System signals from the lands,” a Washington-based reefs for a time. But their overall reef, saying “the mass deployjected number of cases at ‘yung think tank said in a new report numbers in the Spratlys remain ment at Whitsun Reef showed consistent,” the AMTI said. overwhelmed [na] health system released Monday, October 25. that most Chinese militia vessels “As was apparent in the after- are equipped with weak, Class-B This comes after satellite im(We were expecting high cases, that we may get overwhelmed agery found that over 150 ves- math of the mass deployment at AIS transceivers that are rarely and many will die, but we never sels were anchored in the Pag- Whitsun Reef, Chinese vessels detected by satellite.” reached the projected number),” kakaisa (Union) Banks within the leaving one contested area most More diplomatic protests EEZ on October 17, after only a often end up at another.” she said. likely Timeline She added that while the coun- handful were present months In his tweets on September To recall, the National Task 30, Foreign Affairs Secretary Tetry’ health system was challenged before on August 8. In its report, the Asia Maritime Force for the West Philippine odoro Locsin directed his departbecause of the Delta surge, prompt actions by the government led to a Transparency Initiative tracked Sea reported in March that 220 ment to fire diplomatic protests reduction of cases one and a half the “there and back again” Chinese fishing vessels, were over the “Chinese radio chalmonths after the variant was first movement of Chinese vessels in spotted at Julian Felipe Reef. lenges unlawfully issued against Iroquois Reef is located at the Philippine maritime patrols,” the Philippine EEZ and said that detected. “Hindi po natin sinasabi na ‘na- the continued presence of Chi- southern end of Recto (Reed) “incessant and unlawful restrictalo’ na natin ang Delta, ang Delta nese militia in the country’s wa- Bank, an area northeast of the tion of Filipino fishermen,” and po, nandito pa sa atin... pero ang ters remains constant even when Spratly Islands thought to be the continued presence of Chirich in oil and gas. pinakamaganda, we were able to the number of ships decreases. nese vessels in the vicinity of the AMTI in its report pointed to Iroquois Reef. When engaged in a radio chalcontrol and reduce the number of cases and naisaayos natin ang lenge by Philippine authorities satellite imagery from Planet Labs “This may have had an impact (We never said that we ‘defeated’ or in diplomatic protests by the that found that Chinese boats first as the number of ships at IroDelta, as Delta remained here in government, they said, Chinese arrived at Iroquois Reef in mid- quois has dropped significantly the country, but what is good is vessels disperse and then amass April, suggesting that they came since. Thirty-five vessels were that we were able to control and again somewhere else in Philip- there right after the 200 massed visible in satellite imagery from at Whitsun Reef dispersed. reduce the number of cases and pine waters. October 2 but only five were “The total number of ships at present by October 17,” AMTI Satellite images included in we have fixed our) health system the report show that the number Iroquois seems to have remained said. capacity,” Vergeire said. The Philippines has a low-risk of ships at Iroquois Reef has fall- low through early June, with no “If this massing of militia classification of COVID-19 with en since the Philippine protest, more than 5 ships visible on any vessels at Union Banks contina two-week growth rate of -48 but it “also suggests that many date. But by June 15, the num- ues, more diplomatic protests percent and an average daily at- of those vessels likely headed ber had grown to 15, and would are likely to follow.” (Franco tack rate of nearly 5.9 cases per back to Union Banks,” where double to an average of 30 boats Luna with reports from Patricia numbers are now steadily pick- in late July. The average number Lourdes Viray/Philstar.com) 100,000 population. n
Chinese ships just move elsewhere in PH EEZ when challenged - think tank
PH detects first case of new variant by Red
Mendoza ManilaTimes.net
THE Philippines has detected the first case of the B.1.1.318 variant that was first found in Mauritius, according to the Department of Health. The variant, which is considered as a “variant under monitoring” by the World Health Organization (WHO), is said to be responsible for a cluster of cases in the African country in June and contains spike proteins that are present in the Beta and Delta variants. Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said the lone case was a 34-year-old man who arrived in the Philippines from the United Arab Emirates on March 5. The man, who listed his address as Bacolod City, was swab-tested on March 10 and recovered on March 21, Vergeire said. The variant is still being studied for transmissibility and vaccine response, Vergeire said during her regular briefing on Monday, October 25. Aside from B.1.1.318, the country has detected 380 cases of the
EMPLOYMENT
Delta variant, 166 cases of the Beta variant and 104 cases of the Alpha variant in the sequencing run last October 22. Vergeire also clarified the remarks made by vaccination czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. last Friday that the country has “defeated” the highly infectious Delta variant. “Our perception and anticipation in order to have a better Christmas and a good fourth quarter — we made some drastic decisions to really lock down early so that we will have a preparation for the coming of the Delta [variant]. Ngayon nakita natin we were able to defeat Delta (Now, we have seen that we were able to defeat Delta),” Galvez had said. Vergeire believes Galvez made the statement in the context of earlier projections that the country may mirror the experiences of India and Indonesia, where a surge of Delta cases affected their overall response. “We were expecting talaga na magkakaroon ng sobrang taas na kaso, tayo ay ma-o-overwhelm, marami ang mamamatay, pero hindi po natin naabot ‘yung pro-
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
SERVICES
9 The
Asian Journal
mdwk T h e As ian Jour nal M DW K M A G A Z I NE - O c t obe r 2 7 , 2 0 2 1
We dn esd ay OCTOBER 27, 2021
mAGAZINE
asianjournalpublications
@asianjournalcom
@asianjournal
www.asianjournal.com Los Angeles | Las Vegas | Orange County/Inland Empire | Northern California | New York/New Jersey
ConCepCion: An immigrAnt FAmily’s Fortunes
‘History ripples into perpetuity’: Fil-Am author’s sprawling memoir weaves family history, migration, colonialism A
by MoMar
G. Visaya / AJPress
UTHOR and BuzzFeed News inequality editor Albert Samaha’s second book Concepcion is his definitive love letter to his family, and the entire Filipino diaspora by extension.
Samaha was born in Vallejo, went to Kindergarten in Manila, first through third grade in San Francisco, fourth grade in San Mateo, then middle school and high school in Sacramento. “I went to six different schools from Kindergarten to 8th grade, and having to keep adapting to those new environments and being constantly presented with the unfamiliar certainly shaped who I am today in ways I’m still untangling,” he told the Asian Journal in an earlier interview. Photo shows Samaha reading excerpts from his book at a reading in Brooklyn sponsored by the Asian American Writers Workshop. Photos from Twitter/@hanbae
The book tells the personal journey of Samaha’s family leaving a comfortable life in Manila to start fresh in the United States and the author cleverly weaves the migration narrative into the colonial history of the Philippines along with that of Filipinos in America. “If I have any single dream for the book, it’s that I hope enough people read it and are moved by it that it contributes to rolling back the oppressive rules by which our world operates, shrinking the gap between colonists and colonized, served and servers,” Samaha told the Asian Journal. From a more practical perspective, he hopes the book helps people from immigrant diasporas better understand their place in the global age — and see themselves represented. “I hope kids read it to frame the mythologies presented in their textbooks. I hope it helps Filipino Americans unaware
The author on how the book’s central message evolved: While I had abstract notions about the book’s central message, I couldn’t conceive or sharpen my points until I equipped myself with knowledge I lacked. One of the most important ways the book evolved was in my fundamental conception of its point of view: While I initially thought of this book primarily as an immigration story, I came to see that the ideas I was developing were products of my second generation experience, and so I framed the history through that lens.
of our history embrace our collective past and interrogate our impulse to assimilate. And, above all, I hope it inspires
others to investigate their own family histories. As I note in the book, my family’s story is but one thread in a vast tapestry,
and the more stories we record, the fuller our vision of the world,” he added. Critics are raving, Publishers Weekly calls it “an extraordinary look at the freedoms and perils of making a new life in America” while Kirkus Reviews says it is “an expansive view of Filipino history and the experiences of Filipino immigrants... that provides an intimate perspective on the legacy of colonialism.” Samaha seamlessly blending multiple story arcs involving Philippine history, FilAm history in America and his own family’s immigrant journey makes Concepcion an interesting, engaging, and compelling read. How else would one explain getting the feels of an epic history lesson interspersed with an intimate family narrative, all in one chapter? Concepcion is his mom’s family name, and it’s the name that links the main characters Continued on Page 10
10
entertainment T h e As ian Jour nal M DW K M A G A Z I NE - O c t obe r 2 7 , 2 0 2 1
(L-R) Joy Quiza, Nelly Aquino, Jo Solomonson, Janice Santa Ana, Glendale City Mayor Paula Devine, Consul General Ed Badajos, Marlene Cagatao, Celia Defato, Nini Maldonado, Consul Valerie, Cora Soriano. Photos by Marc Pijuan
‘Pistahan sa Glendale, CA’ – Celebrating Filipino American History Month
GLENDALE, CA - The Filipino-American Business Association of Glendale (FABAGGLAC) successfully celebrated Filipino American History Month last October 23, 2021 with a Business Expo and Cultural presentation which included folk dances by Kultura Philippine Folk Arts under the direction of Celia Diaz Defato, songs by Holy Family Filipino Chorale, Filipiniana Fashion Show by Carmelo Designs, Food sampling and video clips of the History of Philippines and famous tourist destinations. One of the highlights of the celebration was a tribute to the late Ruby De Vera, one of the founders and past presidents, and showing of a video montage of FABAG’s past 31 years of community services and outreach programs. FABAG’s proposed project to be built in Glendale called “Filipino American Friendship Monument” was also introduced that night. In attendance were LA’s Hon. Consul General Edgar Badajos, Glendale Hon. Mayor Paula Devine, Councilmembers and Representatives from the Legislatives Offices, other groups and organizations. Mayor Devine presented FABAG with a Proclamation and Certificates of Recognition were also given
Carla, Tom get married in style By Deni Rose M. AfiniDAD-BeRnARDo Philstar.com
KAPUSO sweethearts Tom Rodriguez and Carla Abellana tied the knot in an intimate wedding ceremony in San Juan, Batangas last Saturday. “Mr. and Mrs. Mott,” Carla posted on Instagram. “Flex ko lang na ikinasal ako kagabi sa isang napakagandang binibini. Officially, nabakuran ko na sa wakas!” Tom added on Instagram. Carla was stunning in a pristine white lace embroidered dress by New York-based, Filipino-American designer Monique Lhuillier, while Tom was dapper in an all-black suit by internationally-acclaimed Filipino designer Francis Libiran. The star-studded wedding included their celebrity friends Christian Bautista, Valeen Montenegro, Iya Villania, Rafael Rosell, and of course, Carla’s dad Rey “PJ” Abellana, among others. Early this week, the pair shared a nostalgic prenup video and photos that went viral. The two dated for seven years and got engaged last October 2020. Born in Subic Naval Base in Zambales to a Filipina mom
Carla Abellana and Tom Rodriguez
and an American serviceman dad, Tom, whose real name is Bartolome Alberto Mott, migrated to the US with his family when he was 12. He lived in Arizona, then to San Francisco, where he took up Digital Animation. Carla Angeline Reyes
Abellana, meanwhile, was born in Manila by dad, actor Rey “PJ,” and mom, Rea Reyes. She was the grandchild of veteran actress Delia Razon. She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from De La Salle University.
‘History ripples into perpetuity’...
From Page 9 in the story: from his grandparents and uncles, aunties to his cousins. The second-generation FilAm read more than 50 books, dozens of research papers, and hundreds of pages of primary source documents just to learn the ins and outs of the history he Consul General Ed Badajos takes part in the tinikling dance hoped to explore in the book. His initial plan was to complete all the research before he started writing, only to realize within a few months that the breadth of information he was gathering “was far too massive to digest all at once — plus, I was restless to start putting words to the scenes and ideas bouncing around in my head.” Thus, he ended up writing one page, one section at a time. Once he had all the elements he needed for one section, he would start to write and build up the chapter. He admits he initially struggled with the structure, braiding together two timelines. The first began with his grandmother Caridad’s arrival in the US in 1978, the other that stretched back to his ancestors on pre-colonial Mindanao National costumes on display and chronicled the path that led to their family’s exodus from the Philippines. and strong Leaders of FABAGto President Jo Solomonson by Trying a bunch of different arrangements GLAC for continuing our strong all the Offices. and combinations, Samaha added the secondpresence in the community and Edith M. Fuentes, Past generation experience, the lens that he was for showcasing our culture and President and current Glendale looking into. He also opted for short chapters history. Proud to be a FABAG Planning Commissioner that quickly jumped back and forth in time, but member and a Pinoy.” commented: “KUDOS to all that muddled the core ideas and felt like laying these dedicated, committed (Advertising Supplement) out a bunch of dots without enough lines connecting them. Eventually, it became clear to him, with help from many conversations with his editor Becky Saletan, that one of the central messages in the book is that “history ripples into perpetuity, the events of the past forever shaping the basic tenets of our reality.” “To show how past and present are linked, I decided to build longer chapters that paired a segment from each timeline under a shared theme — for instance, weaving the experiences of migrant Filipino workers in 1930s northern California with my cousin’s upbringing in 1990s Vallejo, California, to show how American definitions of race dictate opportunities,” he shared. “This structure posed its own challenges: how did the puzzle pieces best fit together, with chronology in order and the themes aligned? I’d print out early drafts and cut out sections with scissors so I could move the parts around on my living room floor until I eventually came to the arrangement that you see in the book.” Asked if there was a specific moment that Actor Arjo Atayde with Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte Philstar.com photo inspired him to come up with the book, Samaha said that the inspiration accumulated over time. Looking back, he thinks he first gained a vague inkling that he wanted to better understand his family history when he visited his granduncle Tomas in Italy in 2009 after former Philippine president Corazon Aquino died. He was in college and writing about his role in the People Power revolution for a Filipino commupass in Congress should he mag-asawa.” By Deni Rose M. AfiniDAD-BeRnARDo win. She professed that she feels nity newspaper in California. Philstar.com Even before that, however, he had been “Yes, because of ABS. Isa pressured with her son’s bid for curious about his roots, that over the following ‘yan sa reasons,” she affirmed. ACTRESS Sylvia Sanchez politics. “Okay na, nanahimik na admitted that ABS-CBN’s fran“Kabado, yes, pero suporta, years he began to ask his elders more questions about their respective migrations. chise denial was a big factor on s’ya nu’n. Hanggang nang 1000 percent,” she attested. “Then one day in 2016, when I was back in magsara ang ABS. D’un talaga. why her son Arjo Atayde de“Kabado ako s’yempre d’yan. the Bay Area visiting family and contemplating ‘Yun ang pinakatalaga, du’n cided to run as a congressman Kabado ako s’yempre, anak ko s’ya nalungkot, nagalit, nalungfor the upcoming elections. ‘yun, alam nating magulo ‘yung kot s’ya sa lahat ng Kapamilya. During her “Huwag Kang pulitika, ‘di ba? Pero wala Mangamba” virtual conference Sa mga kaibigan sa loob, mga akong magawa. Anak ko ‘yan, on Monday, October 25, Sylvia pamilya, lahat lahat, natanggas’yempre. Nirerespeto ko ‘yung lan ng trabaho tapos pandemic recalled that Arjo wanted to gusto ng anak ko.” pa. ‘Yun talaga ang isa sa become a politician since high Moreover, she feels extra pinaka rason n’ya.” school and at first, she didn’t pressured because she is vying She fully supports Arjo bewant him to join politics. to win Best Actress in a Supcause she can see his sincerity “Actually, kung ako ang porting Role at the Asian Acadto help. tatanungin, ayoko,” Sylvia told emy Creative Awards, where “Magandang rason ‘yun Philstar.com at the press con. her son won as the first Filipino kasi sabi nga n’ya, ‘Ma, andam- Best Actor last year. After she “Alam ng anak ko ‘yun at alam ni Enchong (Dee) ‘yun. Nag-uu- ing naghihirap, andaming was recently hailed as national sap kami d’yan ni Enchong. Ay- kawawang kapamilya. Gusto winner, Sylvia is set to compete ko lang silang tulungan… oko pero gaya nga ng sabi ko, with other Asian actors and the ‘(Mommy,) mahirap talaga, anak ko ‘yan eh. Wala akong winner will be announced in an magawa kung ‘di suportahan na pero sana walang maghihirap awarding ceremony on Decemsa gitna ng pandemya.’ So lang ang anak ko.” ber 2 and 3. What changed Sylvia’s heart nakikita n’ya ‘yung paghihirap “May expectation na lahat kaya mas pursigido s’ya was when Arjo explained why ganu’n, anak tapos ako na na tumakbo.” he wanted to run for office. nanay. Naprepressure ako, nasSylvia promised to help her “High school pa lang trestress ako,” she professed. son should he succeed. nagsasabi na s’ya, ‘Gusto kong “Pero masaya naman ako.” “Iga-guide ko na lang manungkulan, mommy.’ Sabi Sylvia won as national winmabuti ang anak ko para ko, ‘Makakatulong ka naman ner for Best Actress in a Supnaman ‘di maligaw. Kapag pikahit wala ka sa puwesto.’ porting Role at the Asian AcadSagot n’ya, ‘Mas makakatulong nalad, pinagkatiwalaan ng mga emy Creative Awards 2021 for tao, naka-pwesto, iga-guide ako ‘pag nasa puwesto ako, her mentally challenged role Samaha with his uncle Spanky Rigor of VST. “When I was young I knew naming mag-asawa para alam mommy.’ ‘Yun ‘yung totoo.” he’d been in a well-known band called VST & Company, but had no in “Huwag Kang Mangamba,” mo ‘yun, ‘di naman masusulSylvia admitted that ABSBarang, which she described as sense of how famous he was,” Samaha shared. “I never thought to dig into that past -- which now feels a bit shameful.” sulan o ‘di maliligaw. And ‘yon CBN franchise renewal will be the hardest role she played in Photos courtesy of Albert Samaha ‘yung ipinapangako naming among Arjo’s main goals to her life so far.
ABS-CBN shutdown triggered Arjo to run for Congress
Photo from Instagram/@teampatdy
Albert Samaha and his mom, Lucy. He told us, “If there was anything I know I’ve learned from this process, it was about my own understanding of my privileges as the American-born child of immigrants and the duties that came with that: to push my country toward the ideals that lured my elders here.”
the struggles my elders faced, I was suddenly struck by the impulse to promote my curiosities into a specific project — to build the stories I was hearing into a single, cohesive narrative,” he said. As a journalist, he had exclusively been telling the stories of others, but deep within him he knew he had a story to tell as well. “The more I learned about my family’s history, the more I realized that it was so fascinating to me because I so rarely encountered books or shows or movies that presented experiences that reflected our own, even fewer exploring the second generation perspective I carried. That revelation convinced me that our story was worth sharing,” he added. He then embarked on this project with a question he didn’t know the answer to: “Were my elders’ immigrant sacrifices worth the price they paid?” He was deeply fascinated by his Uncle Spanky Rigor’s career as a rockstar and one of the founding members of the pioneering ‘70s disco band VST & Company, and his choice to leave it all behind. Rigor worked as a baggage handler at San Francisco International Airport for almost 30 years, since he immigrated to the U.S. from the Philippines. When Samaha last visited the Philippines in April 2017, he went with his mom, for an essay he wrote about President Rodrigo Duterte later. His mom grew up in Manila, though her parents are from northern Mindanao. His dad is from Beirut and currently lives there. The couple met on an airplane. His mom was a flight attendant, his dad was a passenger. “They separated when I was young. I lived with my mom in California, but saw my dad at least once a year, and much more often in recent years. I grew up around my mom’s side, so culturally I felt full Filipinx growing up,” he told Asian Journal in an earlier interview. As a journalist, Samaha said he was accustomed to the struggle of finding critical sources and digging up enough puzzle pieces to stitch together a truthful story. This project posed an opposite challenge. “I had easy access to the relatives I was writing about and had no trouble compiling a vast trove of material, from interviews and recollections — but what to omit?” he asked. Certainly not the fact that Albert’s mother is ultra-religious and a Trump supporter, or that she had to go through financial trouble years ago. Samaha shared that some relatives were more forthcoming than others. “My family, like a lot of Filipino families love to chismis, to talk and gossip about one another. I learned how to tell stories from my mom, from my family. We were always talking,” he said at a book reading in Brooklyn last week. “A lot of our friends, even some of our relatives don’t know some of the details revealed in the book.” His initial reaction when he saw the book for the first time? “Sheer joy, man. Just sheer joy. And relief. A big weight off the shoulders. And immense, personal pride.” “This project took me five years and has been on my mind for much longer. To see my family’s name there on the front of a hardcover — it brought me to tears and all I could think about was how excited I was to show my mom and aunties and uncles and cousins,” he said.
Attorney Roland Tong celebrates 20th anniversary as a lawyer ASIAN Journal Publications wishes to congratulate Attorney Roland Tong for reaching a very important milestone in his career. This year marks the 20th anniversary of his law practice. Mr. Tong graduated from Loyola Law School of Los Angeles in June 2001. He passed the California bar exam in December 2001 and the Nevada bar exam in 2002. Mr. Tong is one of the few U.S. attorneys who is born and raised in the Philippines and attended undergraduate and law school in the United States. He grew up in Bacolod City. While growing up in Bacolod, he attended and played basketball for St. John’s Institute from elementary to high school. After high school, he moved to the U.S. and earned a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry at Loyola Marymount University. He briefly worked as an Analytical Chemist at Allergan, Inc. then decided to study Law full time at Loyola Law School. To this day, Mr. Tong speaks Ilonggo and Tagalog fluently. In his 20 years of practice, Mr. Tong has worked as a partner at a few California law firms, including one of the largest law firms in the state. He also worked inhouse as general counsel at a technology company. Mr. Tong devotes his practice to protecting his client’s assets
through estate planning, intellectual property, business and commercial law, and bankruptcy. He continues to serve his Filipino community with his immigration practice. “None of this would have been possible without the help and support from
my family, friends, clients, and colleagues. To all of you, I extend my heartfelt appreciation,” says Attorney Roland Tong. Mr. Tong can be reached by phone at (949) 331-2889 or by e-mail at rjt@ manningllp.com. (Advertising Supplement)
Donato
Philstar.com
HE is tall, witty and funny. But what makes Vic Sotto reign supreme in the comedy department is his commitment to star in and produce shows and films that promote Filipino values. The comedian par excellence is not showing signs of slowing down. “I think it can be learned,” said Bossing Vic of the gift to entertain people in a recent virtual media conference. “Dapat may taglay na ‘majika’ na pwedeng ma-develop sa tulong ng mga magagaling na director, magagaling na manunulat at sa galing din ng mga makakasama mo habang ikaw ay nag-aaral (A newbie should have that ‘magic’ which can be further developed by working with talented directors, writers and actors).” From there, the apprentice will learn the ropes of comedy and enjoy the creative work like how Vic has experienced it before. “Pinaghuhugutan ko dyan yung trabaho ko mismo dahil enjoy ako sa ginagawa ko,” said he of his inspiration for doing comedy. “I love what I’m doing. Enjoy your work, love your work.” This is also Vic’s advice to the new stars of his three-yearold Saturday night sitcom,
Vic Sotto
GMA photo
Daddy’s Gurl, also starring Maine Mendoza, son Oyo Boy Sotto and Wally Bayola. They are Carlo San Juan, Prince Clemente, Prince Carlos and Jem Manicad. “Parang kailan lang na nagpi-pilot episode kami and now (we’ve just celebrated the) third anniversary,” shared he regarding the show’s latest milestone. “It’s so nice that work doesn’t feel like work, that you truly enjoy it. You’re happy with what you’re doing. Mas maganda ang nagiging performance mo. Hindi mo mapapansin yung pagod. Kapag nagkakapuyatan na kayo, hindi mo napapansin na alas tres (ng umaga) na pala
na pack up or alas kwatro. Hindi mo napansin kasi enjoy ka sa ginawa mo.” What keeps him going, too, is the audience that looks for and savors good and wholesome entertainment. “Kailangan dahil hindi naman biro itong pinagdadaanan natin,” Vic reflected on the importance of comedy content in cheering up people, more so in these trying times. “It will somehow lessen the stress. Parang nagulantang tayo sa mga nangyayari sa palagid (The pandemic jolted everyone). That’s very stressful. (Through comedy,) matatawa ka at makakalimutan mo ang problema kahit mga isang oras, napakalaking tulong para maitawid natin itong kung ano man ang pinagdadaanan natin.” With that purpose, comedy actors are determined to work virtually or on set, strictly following health and safety protocols. With Vic, he will also continue his situation comedy and has no intention to veer away from it. “As much as possible, (I will do situation comedy and) I’m comfortable with it,” said he. “Sabi ko nga mas type ko yung nakakatuwa yung mga nangyayari sa paligid ko, kung ano yung nangyayari sa akin.” He described his comedy as Continued on Page 12
Kris now engaged: ‘I’m looking forward to be a Sarmiento’ By Zacarian
Sarao
Inquirer.net
AFTER months of silence since first revealing their relationship, Kris Aquino announced on Instagram on Sunday her engagement to former Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) secretary Mel Sarmiento. “We discussed this post and I thought about it carefully… marami kasi sa followers ko ang nagtatanong kung kamusta na ko because matagal na kong nawala (many of my followers have been asking me how I’ve been since I’ve gone on an hiatus for so long),” she wrote on her post’s caption. Aamin ako (I’ll admit) I’m only 95 pounds now. This pandemic and many stressful events that happened since mid August really caused my weight to drop & my health to suffer,” she added. She added that it has also been exactly four months since the Aquino family lost former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III. However, despite the unfortunate events, her late brother remains the “matchmaker in heaven.” “Somehow I believe there really was a matchmaker in heaven who must be smiling now- I can almost hear his voice telling me, ‘Kristina, tama na, respect the fact na
Former DILG chief Mel Senen Sarmiento and Kris Aquino
gusto ni Mel ng tahimik na buhay’ And finally, ‘bunso’ has learned to obey,” she said. “To my best friend and the man I said yes to spending the rest of my life with, thank you for as bimb said, loving me for me, with no agenda, and for being just an overall good and patient man. It’s unreal how much more calm & peaceful I feel now that you’re here,” she added now talking about her beau. Aquino explained that she and Sarmiento would have never met if it was not for expresident Noynoy. It was even only after her brother’s death last June when she “reconnected” with Sarmiento. “Thank you, you must have known how broken i’d be to lose you, so you made sure there was someone who not
Inquirer.net photos
only helped wipe away my tears, he’s made it possible for me to smile and laugh again. Dumating nung hindi ko hinahanap o inaasahan – kaya nga tama silang lahat na nagsabi in God’s perfect time,” she said. “We agreed, what’s personal shall remain private so hanggang dito lang ang pwede kong ma-share. Except I guess to say as much as I am proud to be an Aquino, looking forward to na kong maging Sarmiento,” she added. Sarmiento was DILG secretary from 2015 to 2016 under the administration of former president Noynoy Aquino. He also served as secretary-general of the Liberal Party. Sarmiento also served as Western Samar representative from 2010 to 2015.
11
T h e As ian Jou r n al MDWK MAGAZ IN E - Octo be r 2 7 , 2 0 2 1
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA
Why Vic’s comedy continues to click with audiences By Jerry
community
TRAVEL is a pure metaphor for our life’s journey. There are two choices in the way we can travel. We can travel light or we can load up on stuff and literally become a beast of burden. The reality for most of us is that we heft and carry far too much physical and emotional baggage over time. I am focusing on the physical baggage aspect only. The emotional baggage aspect is yet for another day. Our journey becomes tedious and cumbersome. All we want when we are too heavily laden with stuff while on the road, at sea or in flight, is to get to our destination fast so we can rest our weary bones and aching muscles and put our feet up. The fun is gone because tedium and fatigue have taken over. It shouldn’t be so because there is truth in what they say about any journey. Half the fun should be getting there. Very few of us are born wise old souls who already know what is important and what is frivolous at the get-go from a very young age. For most of us ordinary beings who have to learn from scratch, our learning curves can be steep. It takes a long while for us to know the difference between a NEED and a WANT. We all know the drill. Needs are the things required for basic human existence: food, shelter and clothing. Wants are those that our ego or an infomercial tells us we should acquire to feel better, look better and improve our status in society such as the latest car model, the new smartphone, large screen TV sets or luxury items or anything else that advertisers tell us we ought to have to make our lives better or feel important. The distinction should be easy enough if our mental faculties are grounded in common sense and just basic
The buckeT lisT
Travel light 15th of a series
“He who must travel happily must travel light.” — Antoine de Saint-Exupery understanding of what is important and what isn’t. Those of us who have wise parents may try to tell us so until they are blue in the face but for the most part, unless and until we go through life experiences that shape our understanding and appreciation of what truly matters in life, it is guaranteed that we will bungle our way through just learning to distinguish between a basic need and a frivolous want. A need is probably owning one quality watch to help us manage our time. A want is having 12 different watches to match what we wear. We will acquire mountains of stuff through our lifetimes. It’s not our fault we live in a consumer society where acquiring stuff is the default behavior. Consider the success of companies that rent out public storage spaces. If you are one of those who rent such spaces in addition to your home’s bulging garage and storage spaces for long periods of time, it may be time to assess the quality of your life’s journey and begin divesting promptly, either gradually or drastically and choosing to travel light. The stuff we acquire is just that. Stuff and nothing more…… When we own something, that something owns us. We are responsible for its care and maintenance to keep it functioning and useful. When that something has outgrown its usefulness or has become passé, we are responsible for its disposition. When we acquire something new, we probably need to dispose of 3 other items, just to keep us in
balance. One day, if we let ourselves listen and learn from that small, quiet and wise voice within us, we will discover that important things are not stuff. They are largely intangible things — like health of mind, body and spirit, faith, hope and love, joy, sacrifice, a sense of wonder and humor to cushion us from the rough shocks of life. So next time we find ourselves meandering about armed to the teeth with credit cards in those huge shopping malls, outlets or flea markets, try to go on browsing mode only. Hold off on splurging next month’s paycheck. This is likewise true for those who go online shopping, indulging themselves in retail therapy in the comfort of their own homes in their pajamas. Look at the merchandise and appreciate the craftsmanship and give yourself time to decide if owning it will answer a need or just satisfy an impulsive want. Window shop, if you must. It would be like going to a museum where you can look, appreciate beauty and quality while having a great time and leaving as light and unencumbered as you came in, without a shopping cart full of stuff. *** 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.
*** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.
12
community The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 27, 2021
How to obtain custody and visitation rights for unmarried dads
Why Vic’s comedy continues... Barrister’s From Page 11 “clean,” peppered with slapstick, and Filipino values. Given his stature in the business, Vic said there are work challenges that he faces, such as doing new comedy formats and working with new collaborators.
“Hindi mo kayang mag-isa (You can’t do it alone),” said he. “I’m not a solo performer. I am a team player. When you have new people to work with, you have to adjust. You have to give. You have to take.” The industry veteran is there for fellow comedians to bring out the
best in them. “Believe in your character,” said he. “As I’ve said, like me, you have to be a team player, hindi pwedeng ako ang bida rito, ako ang magpapatawa rito, sa akin ang punchline. Everything has to be in accordance (with) the script, sa kagustuhan ng direktor. In short, you have to be a good team player.” It’s not surprising why Vic has stayed this long and remains adaptable to the ever-changing landscape of TV entertainment. “I believe the new normal will be here for quite some time,” said he. “We just have to adjust. Take it as it comes. Sumunod sa mga dapat sundin at pasalamat na rin, na may mga trabaho pa tayo (Follow the rules and be thankful that we have work).” As for the charm of Daddy’s Gurl, Vic also attributed it to the writers and director, who came up with a concept that viewers can relate to. “Daddy’s Gurl is more of a familyoriented (show),” said he. The narrative has a province-bred father Barak (played by Vic), who raises a daughter Stacy (Maine) in the city, and is new to social media. There’s a generation gap between the two that needs to be addressed. “Kung may mga issues na pinag-uusapan, dun naman lumalabas ang galing ng mga writers namin at ng aming direktor na nagkakaroon ng resolution yung mga issue,” said he, “and at the same time we can provide values na kahit papaano ma-i-instill mo sa mga viewers (If there are present issues being tackled in the story, that shows the brilliance of the writers and director, to make resolutions and provide values that can be instilled in viewers.)” Imparting Filipino values to audiences is both an important ingredient and signature of the sitcoms and movies Vic has done. “Hindi mawawala yun,” stressed Vic, who sees himself as an entertainer of TV and movie audiences. “Importante sa akin yun,” added he. That explains why his comedy clicks with viewers.
and the child is born during the marriage, or within 300 days after the marriage Corner is terminated by death, annulment, declaration of invalidity, or divorce, or after a judgment of separation is atty. Kenneth entered by a court. UrsUa reyes (b) Before the child’s birth, he and the child’s natural ESTABLISHING parentage mother have attempted to rights for Moms is a lot easier marry each other by a marriage than establishing one for solemnized in apparent unmarried Dads. Moms can compliance with law, although establish this by simply showing the attempted marriage is or proof of her having given birth could be declared invalid, and to the child. Family Code either of the following is true: §7610. (1) If the attempted Establishing parentage marriage could be declared rights, including custody and invalid only by a court, the visitation rights, becomes more child is born during the problematic with unmarried attempted marriage, or within Dads because proving yourself 300 days after its termination as the biological father does by death, annulment, not automatically make you declaration of invalidity, or the natural father of the child. divorce. Under the family code, there (2) If the attempted are competing presumptions of marriage is invalid without a paternity which allows the non court order, the child is born biological father to be deemed within 300 days after the the natural father of the child. termination of cohabitation. A typical situation is when (c) After the child’s birth, boyfriend gets girlfriend he and the child’s natural pregnant. Girlfriend for some mother have married, or reason decides to exclude attempted to marry, each other boyfriend from baby’s life so by a marriage solemnized in she breaks up with boyfriend, apparent compliance with does not give the boyfriend law, although the attempted any information about her marriage is or could be delivery, and does not state declared invalid, and either of the boyfriend as the father in the following is true: the birth certificate or decides (1) With his consent, he is to name someone else as the named as the child’s father on father. Girlfriend does this the child’s birth certificate. because her parents disapprove (2) He is obligated to of the ex boyfriend. support the child under a One way a presumption written voluntary promise or by of Paternity is created is court order. by executing a voluntary (d) He receives the child declaration of paternity. into his home and openly holds A Voluntary declarations out the child as his natural executed before 1997 give rise child. to a conclusive presumption of (e) If the child was born and paternity and can be overcome resides in a nation with which only by blood or genetic tests the United States engages in ordered on noticed motion by an Orderly Departure Program the mother or presumed father or successor program, he must be made within three acknowledges that he is the years of the date of execution child’s father in a declaration of the voluntary declaration under penalty of perjury, as Family.Code. § 7576; Kevin Q. specified in Section 2015.5 of v. Lauren W. (2009) 175 CA4th the Code of Civil Procedure. 1119, 1133, 95 CR3d 477, 485 This subdivision shall remain If the voluntary declaration in effect only until January 1, of paternity is executed after 1997, and on that date shall 1996, it is not characterized become inoperative. as a conclusive presumption. (f) The child is in utero after Instead, it “shall establish the the death of the decedent paternity of a child and shall and the conditions set forth in have the same force and effect Section 249.5 of the Probate as a judgment for paternity Code are satisfied. issued by a court of competent An alleged biological jurisdiction” and trumps father who does not meet any §7611 presumptions discussed of the § 7611 conditions for below. A post 1996 voluntary presumed father status has declaration of paternity “shall no constitutionally-protected be recognized as a basis for “liberty interest” in establishing the establishment of an order a parentage relationship with a for child custody, visitation, or child as against the rights of a child support.” Family .Code presumptive father who has an §§ 7573, 7644; Kevin Q. v. extant parentage relationship Lauren W., supra, 175 CA4th at with the child. Dawn D. v. 1132, 95 CR3d at 485; In re J.L. Super.Ct. (Jerry K.) (1998) 17 (2008) 159 CA4th 1010, 1019, C4th 932, 940–942, 72 CR2d 72 CR3d 27, 33. 871, 876–877 Another way of establishing The facts get even more presumed father status is if you complicated if the girlfriend, fall under any of the categories whom boyfriend gets pregnant listed (a) to (f) under family is married to another man code §7611: because the law provides a (a) He and the child’s conclusive presumption of natural mother are or have paternity to the husband of been married to each other the girlfriend. Under Family
Code §7540, the child of a wife cohabiting at time of conception with her husband, who is not impotent or sterile, is “conclusively” presumed to be a child of the marriage. This conclusive presumption may be challenged by showing that the husband was sterile. It may also be challenged by filing a motion for blood or genetic testing under Family Code §7541 but this has to be done within 2 years of the childs birth. In addition, only persons with standing can bring this motion which is limited to the husband, child, mother and a presumed father as listed in Family Code §7611 and 7612. Even absent a recognized rebuttal, the court has discretion as a matter of due process not to apply § 7540 conclusive presumption of paternity when it would not further the statute’s underlying policies of preserving the integrity and stability of an extant marital family, protecting children from the stigma of “illegitimacy,” and promoting individual rather than State responsibility for child support ... as where the ostensible § 7540 presumptive father never developed a parental relationship with the child and the only established parent-child relationship is with a third person. Brian C. v. Ginger K. (2000) 77 CA4th 1198, 1200–1201, 92 CR2d 294, 296; In re Kiana A. (2001) 93 CA4th 1109, 1115, 113 CR2d 669, 675. Procedurally, the ex boyfriend should file a Petition for Parentage as soon as the child is born. While the case is pending, the ex boyfriend may seek temporary visitation order although this may be on a limited or even monitored basis. If successful in proving parentage, the ex boyfriend may be granted custody and visitation rights. However, the ex boyfriend would also have the obligation of paying child support based on California guidelines. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APLC is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail Kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com. (Advertising Supplement)
How’s the housing market? neighborhood. Overall, the LA metropolitan and Southern California do not indicate a housing bubble. It may seem that way, but there continues to be more buyers than inventory available. The main factors currently driving up real estate Jason agcaoili prices are: 1) shortage of homes for sale, and 2) low finance rates. AT the end of September Is it still a good time to 2021, the Southern California buy or sell? Yes, both. It’s a housing market continued to good time to buy because of increase in comparison to the low mortgage rates. If you are prior year (September 2020)*. Los Angeles County showed currently renting but you can purchase a home and have a an increase of 8.7% with a similar monthly debt payment, median sales price of $889,000 then for most people it would and an average sales price of make sense to purchase. If $1.3m for single family homes. Orange County had an increase you’re currently a homeowner but your home’s value has of 17.3% with a median sales increased, and you’re able price of $1.1M and average to sell and reinvest the profit sales price of $1.4M. Riverside County had an increase of 18.6% for a larger home or other investment, then for most with a median of $555,000 and people it would make sense to an average price of $635,000. sell. San Bernardino County had an Location, location, location. increase of 15.5%, a median The most important factor in sales price of $467,000, and an average sales price of $635,000. real estate, whether you’re deciding to sell or buy is the Average days on market location. Property values (DOM). Homes for sale in LA can differ greatly for similar County were listed on the properties but have a different market an average of 21 days before closing. Orange County’s zip code, school district, neighborhood, or planned DOM was 19 days, Riverside County’s DOM was 20 days, and development. Location also matters during a down market. San Bernardino County’s DOM During a down market, higher was 21 days. priced homes in highly prized Is there a housing bubble? neighborhoods won’t decrease Although the market continues in value as significantly as lower to increase year over year, priced homes in less desirable keep in mind that real estate areas and neighborhoods. is hyperlocal, meaning that it The bottom line is that market depends on your local area demand dictates the real estate market, the local zip code, and
Ask the Realtor
market and location is the major factor. If you’re waiting for a down market to purchase a property, keep in mind that not all areas will experience a down market. Most importantly, comparing a similar size and type of home in a different city or state is like comparing apples to oranges. What is your goal? When you’re planning to buy or sell your home, always ask yourself— what is your goal? Is it time to stop paying your landlord and invest in your own home? Is it time to sell and purchase a larger home? Do you need to downsize? Is it time to move on? Is it time to finally retire? There are things in life that can’t be bought or replenished, and that’s time. Time is of the essence whether you’re looking to buy or sell. (*Figures are based on CRMLS data, as of Oct 2021.) Life’s Short, Love Where You Live. Call / Text 213-608-5837 for a complimentary consultation, property value assessment, or questions for Selling, Buying, or Investing in real estate. Connect with me @jasonarealtor on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. *** JASON AGCAOILI, REALTOR | Ca DRE #01947185 JASONAREALTOR.com | HomeSmart Realty Group. Your Realtor for the Los Angeles Metropolitan, South Bay, Beach Cities, and Long Beach. | Member - California Association of Realtors and the South Bay Association of Realtors | Member – Coalition of Filipino American Chambers of Commerce (Advertising Supplement)
T h e As ian Jou r n al MDWK MAGAZ IN E - Octo be r 2 7 , 2 0 2 1
13
14
The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 27, 2021
ISLAND PACIFIC FPFC