We’ve got you covered from Hollywood to Broadway... and Online!
NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023 Volume 17 - No.5 • 16 Pages
133-30 32nd Ave., Flushing, NY 11354 • Tel. (212) 655-5426
Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
Marcos to visit LA, Hawaii after APEC DATELINE USA FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
by JEAN MANGALUZ Inquirer.net
A Filipino educator is MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is set to travel to the command of the United States California’s Teacher of the Year Indo-Pacific in Hawaii. EXTENDING his exceptional dedication beyond the four walls of the classroom made Joseph Alvarico deserving to be chosen as one of California’s Teacher of the Year. For this Filipino educator, teaching is more than just textbooks. As he puts it, “When the student comes into my classroom, I have to know what that student is feeling.” Though he feels like a rockstar when teaching, he shines the spotlight on the real stars: his students. He believes that “In order for the kids to shine, I actually have to step back.”
Marcos leaves for the U.S. on November 14. An official from Department of Foreign
Affairs (DFA) said the president has been invited. “The president is being invited to visit the Indo-Pacific Command and he will also have a roundtable discussion with the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for security studies,” DFA Undersecretary Charles Jose said. Marcos will be joined by the Philippine delegation during his visit to the Command.
Duterte denies hand in destabilization
MANILA — Former president Rodrigo Duterte is baffled on how his name got dragged into supposed destabilization moves against the government. Armed Forces chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. earlier disclosed destabilization moves against the Marcos administration by some retired generals, and there were insinuations that Duterte is behind the moves. “I really do not know how I was dragged into this,” Duterte said at the Gikan sa Masa Para sa Masa program aired early Tuesday morning, November 7 over Sonshine
PAGE 2
PAGE 2
SC asked: Declare Sara’s secret funds unconstitutional by DAPHNE GALVEZ Philstar.com
PAGE 4
Photo taken in July 2017 shows then president Rodrigo Duterte delivering his second State of the Nation Address. While Duterte admitted to talking to some retired generals, he denied plotting a coup d’etat with them. Philstar.com photo
Jose also mentioned a security briefing on West Philippine Sea is likely. The DFA official believes the trip “adds a layer to the cooperation that we are trying to establish with like-minded states, in order to promote what we have been advocating all along – a rules-based order.” U.S. Indo-Pacific Command is a unified combatant command consisting of U.S.
HANDA PILIPINAS. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (center) presses the buzzer during the opening ceremony of the Visayas leg of the 2023 Handa Pilipinas, an annual exposition of innovations in disaster risk reduction and management, at the Summit Hotel in Tacloban City on Wednesday, Nov. 8. With him are House of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez (left) and Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. PNA photo by Alfred Frias
MANILA — Legal experts and former government officials on Tuesday, November 7 filed a petition asking the Supreme Court (SC) to declare as unconstitutional the 2022 transfer of P125 million to the Office of the Vice President (OVP), which is under Sara Duterte, as a confidential fund. Petitioners also asked the High Court to order the OVP, which spent the fund in just 11 days in December last year, to return the P125 million to the government’s treasury. In their 49-page petition, petitioners argued that the decision of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to release the P125 million to serve as a confidential fund of the
PAGE 2
DOT chief highlights Philippines’ National Association of Filipino Priests tourism education approach holds historic assembly in Newark Archbishop Caccia leads mass for at World Travel Market 400 Filipino priests in cultural event by ROSETTE ADEL Philstar.com
TOURISM Secretary Christina Frasco is leading the Philippine delegation at the highly regarded World Travel Market Minister’s Summit being held in London, United Kingdom. On Monday, November 6, Frasco joined global tourism
leaders and ministers and discussed the role of education in transforming the world’s tourism industry. Tourism education Frasco underscored the Philippines’ approach toward tourism education and how the department is prioritizing it in its local tourism blueprint, citing
PAGE 7
IN a historic event, nearly 400 Filipino Catholic priests from across the United States came together in Newark for a cultural celebration on October 26. The gathering took place at Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart and featured a Mass presided over by Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, the Vatican’s permanent observer to the United Nations.
This momentous occasion was part of the National Association of Filipino Priests (NAFP-USA)’s Fourth Assembly and marked the first time such a significant number of Filipino priests congregated in the U.S. The festivities commenced with a joyful procession of Filipino Catholics carrying symbolic items representing the religious traditions
PAGE 4
2
NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
From the Front Page
Duterte denies hand in destabilization... Marcos to visit LA, Hawaii after... PAGE 1 Media Network International (SMNI). While Duterte admitted talking with some retired generals, he denied plotting destabilization or a coup. “What I said during our meeting, among others, was as long as there is no serious issue of corruption (there would be no coup),” Duterte said in a mix of English and Tagalog.?“What would bring the government down… is if the people would know that their money is being spent on personal matters.” Duterte said he might have been misquoted because he does not think there is a serious issue of corruption in government at this time. He added that he does not see any political turmoil. “I do not see any in the horizon, however short or long. I don’t think that there are current issues big enough to create another turmoil. The biggest issue that would cause it would be corruption in government that’s rampant, uncontrolled
and unabated,” Duterte said. The former president is also confident that the current administration has corruption under control and that the current president is not corrupt. “Marcos, I would not say he is corrupt. However, I would not make any categorical statement on the others because I do not have the wherewithals to enter into a discussion about it,” Duterte said. Moreover, on a scale of 1 to 10, Duterte gave Marcos a passing rate of 6. “He is performing not exceedingly well, but enough to make the people comfortable,” he added. The former president also urged Filipinos to support Marcos. “Let us give the President sufficient time to attain his objectives and if he has fallen short, for him to correct it,” Duterte said. “It is still too early, let us give our support to the government.” GMA, Ungab ousted Former president and Pampanga Rep. Gloria
Macapagal-Arroyo and Davao City 3rd district Rep. Isidro Ungab were ousted as deputy speakers last night by the entire chamber. During Tuesday’s plenary session, Cagayan 1st District Rep. Ramon Nolasco Jr. moved to replace Arroyo as deputy speaker with Isabela 1st District Rep. Antonio Albano. Nolasco also pushed for Lanao del Sur 2nd District Rep. Yasser Alonto Balidong as deputy speaker replacing Ungab. Without objection from any House member, the changes were declared approved by Deputy Speaker and Antipolo City Rep. Roberto Puno. This came after the House overwhelmingly adopted House Resolution No. 1414 to show their support for Speaker Martin Romualdez against the tirades of Duterte, who earlier tagged the chamber as a “rotten institution.” Ungab on Tuesday said he accepts the decision of PAGE 7
PAGE 1 Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. It maintains the presence of U.S. military in Indian Ocean and nearby portions of the Pacific. Marcos will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders’ Summit 2023 in San Francisco, which will be held from November 15 to 17. After which, he will go to Los Angeles, and then to Honolulu, said Jose. During the trip, Jose said that Marcos will meet with the Filipino communities in all three cities. g
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Malacañang file photo
SC asked: Declare Sara’s... PAGE 1 OVP was a “clear usurpation” of the legislative power of Congress. The funds were released after then newly elected Vice President Sara Duterte requested P403.46 million for various purposes, P250 million of which were “confidential funds.” The petitioners include Christian Monsod, one of the framers of the 1987 Constitution; former finance undersecretary Maria Cielo Magno; former Commission on Election commissioner Augusto Lagman; Ibarra Gutierrez, who served as spokesman of former vice president Leni Robredo and seven others. Named respondents were VP Duterte for the OVP, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman. The petitioners argued that the transfer of funds
from the national budget to the OVP is an exercise of legislative power, adding that it is Congress that decides how the budget will be spent, including on what programs or activities the money will be used. They also argued that the transfer of the funds does not fall under the “delegated legislative power” of Congress under Special Provision No. 1 of the 2022 GAA. Under the said special provision, the Office of the President (OP) has the power to “approve releases to cover the funding requirements of ‘new or urgent activities or projects that need to be implemented or paid.’” The petitioners said the provision does not allow Congress to delegate powers that are purely legislative, which includes the authority to make a complete law. “The appropriation by
Petitioners on November 7, 2023 file a petition against the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) “unconstitutional” spending of its P125-million confidential funds. Philstar.com photo
executive fiat in clear violation of the legislative intent does not fall under the delegated legislative power under Special Provision No. 1 of the Contingent Fund in the GAA for FY 2022,” the petition said. Further, the petitioners argued that confidential funds do not fall under the funding allowed by the contingent fund. The petitioners said the OVP’s budget in 2022 has items for the good governance program and traveling expenses, where the funds should have been transferred, but instead the contingency fund of the OP was sent to the “inexistent” confidential fund of the OVP. VP welcomes suit Vice President Sara Duterte on Nov. 7 welcomed the petition challenging the constitutionality of her office’s P125-million confidential funds in 2022. “We welcome the opportunity to discuss the legality of fund transfers. We hope that the wisdom of the Supreme Court will pave the way to finally end this matter,” Duterte said in a recorded statement. With the petition pending before the SC, Duterte said she and her offices will remain focused on its mandates to raise “the level and quality of education in our country and protecting our students and DepEd staff from all kinds of threats and abuse.” She also called on the public to focus on the rising prices of goods affecting “our students and their families.” g
(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023
3
4
NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
A Filipino educator is California’s Teacher...
Nearly 400 Filipino priests gathered for a cultural celebration and Mass at Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart on October 26, 2023.
National Association of Filipino... PAGE 1 of the Philippines, such as Simbang Gabi and Sinulog. During the Mass, Archbishop Caccia reflected on his previous role as the Vatican’s Apostolic Nuncio in the Philippines. He fondly recalled the warmth and hospitality of the locals, comparing it to the nation’s humid climate. He commended the immigrant priests for their dedication to spreading the gospel across the globe, emphasizing that being a disciple is synonymous with being a missionary. Archbishop Caccia stated in his homily, “You priests are all the light because you go and tell the good news to everyone in all parts of the world.” The NAFP-USA’s Fourth Assembly, held from October 24 to 27, coincided with Filipino American History Month. The gathering featured various events, including a Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City on October 25, celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Edmund Whalen of the Archdiocese of New York. Auxiliary Bishop Michael A. Saporito from the Archdiocese of Newark delivered a keynote address on “Priesthood in a Synodal Church” on October 26 at the Hilton Meadowlands. The convention concluded on October 27 with Bishop Oscar Solis of the Diocese of Salt Lake City presiding over a Mass that emphasized the importance of unity among Filipino priests on their journey. New Jersey is home to a substantial Filipino population, with 143,845 Filipinos residing in the state, according to 2018 U.S. Census Bureau data. A 2023 Pew Research Center survey revealed that a majority of Filipino Americans (54%) identify as Catholic. To
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
PAGE 1 With Alvarico championing empathy and care for his students’ performances even in classes outside his own, his efforts have been recognized with Contra Costa County naming him as 2023 Teacher of the Year. On top of this, he also received a call from California State Superintendent Tony Thurmond announcing him as one of California’s Teachers of the Year, making him the only teacher chosen in the whole of Northern California. “It’s an incredible moment,” he shared with his family in the Philippines. His unexpected journey as a Filipino educator Though both his parents were teachers, Alvarico never expected to be one. This changed when he received a scholarship from De La Salle University-Manila but with a catch—he had to take up education and
teach for a year. He then responded to an ad from Mt. Diablo Unified School District in Contra Costa County, California, and got an interview. “They came, they actually came, the human resources came to the Philippines and interviewed me there,” he recalls. The next thing he knew, the principal was then interviewing him via phone. He then landed a job teaching at a middle school before moving to Ygnacio Valley High School, where he currently teaches engineering. Alvarico also runs the robotic club, where they have built 120-pound robots in just 8 weeks. Aside from teaching, Alvarico is also passionate about diversity and college access. One project he has, through Cal Poly, is called Femmineers, which aims to encourage more girls to pursue studies in engineering. (Mary Villegas/Inquirer.net)
Duterte denies hand in destabilization... A Marian statue is carried into Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart as part of a Filipino cultural procession that preceded a Mass of nearly 400 Filipino Catholic priests from across the U.S. on October 26, 2023.
An image of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz of Manila is carried into Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart as part of a Filipino cultural procession that preceded a Mass of nearly 400 Filipino Catholic priests from across the U.S. on October 26, 2023.
Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, the Vatican’s permanent observer to the United Nations, presided over a Mass of nearly 400 Filipino Catholic priests from across the U.S. at Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart on October 26, 2023.
Hundreds of Filipino lay Catholics — many dressed in colorful traditional attire — participated in a cultural celebration and Mass at Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart on October 26, 2023.
engage this community, the Archdiocese of Newark’s Filipino Apostolate offers
various spiritual programs, gatherings, and social justice initiatives. g
PAGE 2 the House leadership to strip him of his position as deputy speaker. In a statement, Ungab noted that he has been in Congress “long enough to understand the dynamics and interpersonal relations among its members.” In May, Arroyo was also stripped of her “senior deputy speaker” title amid allegations that she was aiming for the speakership. Following the demotion of Arroyo, who is a known political ally of the Duterte family, Sara Duterte resigned from the ruling Lakas-CMD party which supported her vice presidential campaign. Go ahead, leave party Duterte is unfazed by moves of his colleagues to leave their main Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) following moves by Senior Deputy Speaker Rep. Aurelio Gonzales to bolt out of the party after naming the former chief executive as a “threat” to the House. “I respect his decision to go out of the party. And I would encourage those who are not in tune with us or hindi ninyo nagustuhan, you’re always welcome to go out,” Duterte said of Gonzales, who resigned from PDP-Laban during Monday’s (November 6) congressional session, where lawmakers adopted House Resolution 1414 which calls on the House to “(uphold) the integrity and honor of the House of Representatives and (express) appreciation, solidarity and support” for House Speaker Martin Romualdez.” “Even if I remain to be the only one in PDP, OK
lang sa akin. No problem,” he said, adding that even if he was the only one left in PDP in the whole country, “OK lang ako. Wala akong dynamics diyan.” Gonzales resigned from PDP-Laban after pointing out that it was Duterte who made the remarks that prompted the House resolution to show the lower chamber’s support for Romualdez. Duterte was noted to have criticized Congress after it rejected the request of his daughter Vice President and Education Chief Sara Duterte for confidential funds in the 2024 General Appropriations Bill. The former president has been cited for calling Congress ‘rotten,’ alleging that the lower House is the ‘most rotten branch of government’ and insinuating that Romualdez is behind the distribution of certain amounts to lawmakers without any audit done. ‘No opposition, no democracy’ For Duterte, if there is no opposition, there is no democracy at all. “In a democracy, there must always be an opposition,” Duterte said over SMNI on Tuesday. Duterte likewise told the people not to always assume that government is always correct. He said there are many mistakes committed along the way, whether with malice or without malice. “Somebody has to point out these things so that the administration or the President will know about it,” he said. And in governance, Duterte said, there must be somebody who’d be just
checking and maybe try to figure out if that is the correct way. The former president likewise said somebody must call the attention of the one running the show. He has continued to push for a massive audit of all government offices, including the Lower House, where he said money is being distributed without the lawmakers having to account for them. Coup plotters ‘crazy’ People who would support attempts to overthrow the Marcos administration are “crazy,” Sen. Ronald dela Rosa said amid reports that a group of retired military generals are trying to convince active military troops to join them. “You know those who will support that are crazy,” the senator said. He added that even if he is a retired general and served as chief of the Philippine National Police, personally, he was not aware of any destabilization efforts against President Marcos. “It is difficult to launch a destab if you are in active (service), much more if already retired. What are your capabilities? All you have is words of wisdom. No more capability to destab. When you get old then look for trouble? You just retire peacefully,” he added. He noted that retirees like him would only think of enjoying retirement, and if he is not a senator, he would be fishing in his hometown in Davao. - With reports from Edith Regalado, Cecille Suerte Felipe, Sheila Crisostomo (by Diana Lhyd Suelto/Philstar. com)
(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023
OPINION
FEATURES
Building for resilience
5
Ten years after Super Typhoon Yolanda turned much of Eastern Visayas into a wasteland, have lessons been learned in disaster preparedness and resilience? In the catastrophic aftermath of the typhoon, there was much talk about building back better and designing resilience into the The initial response of the Philippine government had been dazed incoherence. Fortunately, emergency response and rebuilding were made easier by the massive outpouring of aid from the international community, which sent not only relief goods but also aircraft, troops and experts who set up emergency shelters and helped restore basic utility services. Sadly, rescue efforts came too late for many. By the time Yolanda exited, over 6,300 people were dead, with more missing and never found even when the international rescue teams with special equipment were deployed. Yolanda affected an estimated 16 million people in 41 provinces across nine regions, but Eastern Visayas was the worst hit. Tacloban City, where four ships ran aground due to powerful storm surges up to seven meters high, turned one of the vessels into a memorial for those who perished. The devastated
lives and livelihoods created a humanitarian crisis, with refugees struggling to rebuild their lives even as they mourned the loss of loved ones. There were discussions about declaring certain coastal areas off-limits to human habitation, but this was deemed to exacerbate the woes of marginalized fishing communities. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration stressed that it issued accurate forecasts and warnings about Yolanda, but the national and local governments failed to grasp the seriousness of the threat posed by storm surges. Since then, with more storm surges hitting other places across the country, the nation has developed a better understanding of the dangers posed by the weather disturbance. But whether preparedness has improved commensurately with the awareness is debatable.
Editorial
Babe’s Eye View BABE ROMUALDEZ VIDEOS and images of the atrocities committed by the Palestinian militant group Hamas when it launched a deadly attack on Israeli communities near the Gaza Strip on Oct. 7 are horrific and appalling – with infants,
ManilaTimes.net photo
Building back better for disaster resilience, through engineering and architectural interventions, has also been spotty. With the country visited each year by an average of 20 tropical cyclones, and with limited resources, fatalism remains deeply ingrained in the average Filipino when it comes to dealing with natural calamities. Still, there are some bright spots. Tacloban
City has bounced back, although the scars of lives lost run deep. Plantations that were razed by Yolanda have recovered and livelihoods restored. From the tragedy, other parts of the country have enhanced protocols in preparing for storm surges. With the existential threats posed by climate change, more can be done by way of disaster preparedness and resilience. (Philstar.com)
Worldwide concern for Israel-Hamas war increasing rapidly young children, men, women and the elderly killed, and hundreds dragged away as hostages. But the latest Israel Defense Forces (IDF) airstrike in Gaza, specifically at the Jabalya refugee camp, has also left equally disturbing images of the devastation that the Israel-Hamas war has wrought, with people digging through the rubble to look for
survivors, the huge crater in the middle amid a backdrop of wrecked buildings somehow capturing the sense of devastation that residents must be feeling. What is even more heartbreaking for many are the photos and videos of the wounded and crying children who are unable to make sense of the chaos that surrounds them. The IDF said they have
surrounded Gaza City, with soldiers “fighting in close quarters” as they seek out members of the Palestinian terrorist group. But the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, warned that Israel’s soldiers would go home “in black bags.” Needless to say, the situation is causing an ever increasing concern not only
in Washington, D.C. but all over the world because of the risk of escalation that can go beyond the Middle East as malicious groups and actors try to exploit the situation. U.S. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby admitted that the United States is “deeply concerned about the potential for any significant escalation of these attacks in
the days ahead.” For one, the Lebanonbased Hezbollah terrorist group has already entered the picture – obviously supported by Iran – launching rocket and drone attacks against U.S. troops in Syria and Iraq two weeks ago. In response, the U.S. conducted self-defense airstrikes on weapons depots in Syria used PAGE 10
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
Main Office: 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
New York and New Jersey: 133-30 32nd Ave., Flushing, NY 11354 Tel.: (212) 655-5426 • Fax (818) 502-0858
With offices in Los Angeles, New York/New Jersey, Las Vegas, San Diego, Philippines
CORA MACABAGDAL-ORIEL President
MOMAR G. VISAYA Executive Editor and Editor-in-Chief New York/New Jersey Asian Journal
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 a greement to continue publication. Client agrees and covenants to indemnify AJPI and its officers against any and all loss, liability, damage, expenses, cost, charges, claims, actions, causes of action, recoveries, judgments, penalties, including outside attorneys’ fees (individually and collectively “Claims”) which AJPI may 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; 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 the Las Vegas Sales Office at (702) 792-6678 or send us an email at info@asianjournalinc.com
6
NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023
Dateline PhiliPPines
7
PNP investigating alleged China ‘sleeper cells’ in PH by Faith argosino Inquirer.net
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday, November 6 said that it is coordinating with other law enforcement agencies in investigating the alleged existence of Chinese “sleeper
The Department of Migrant Workers provides immediate financial assistance worth Php 50,000 to each OFW returning from Israel, along with comprehensive reintegration assistance and job facilitation services for other employment opportunities. Photo courtesy of the Department of Migrant Workers
6th batch of OFWs arrives from Israel By Claire Mondares and Bernadette e. taMayo ManilaTimes.net
THE sixth batch of repatriated overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) composed of 34 caregivers, eight hotel workers and an infant arrived from Israel on Tuesday, November 7. One of the repatriates, Guillermo Umayam Jr., shared that until now the attacks continued, forcing him to decide to go home. “I am grateful that I have arrived home safely. The Hamas militants are still launching rockets until now. Whenever my colleagues heard sirens, they panicked, they were shouting and running back to the shelter to hide,” Umayam said. Umayam worked as a hotel worker for over a year in Bat Yam, Tel Aviv, which is near Kibbutz, the place attacked by Hamas. He said, of the three wars he has witnessed since he worked there, this was the most traumatizing. Meanwhile, the Department of Health said it will provide psychosocial counseling — in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) — to address the traumatic experience of OFWs. As of November 7, the government has brought home a total of 182 OFWs and five infants since the repatriation effort started on October 18. Just like the first five batches, the new repatriates received financial assistance of P125,000 each from the
Department of Migrant Workers, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, DSWD and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. Also, the government has brought home the remains of three caregivers who were killed during the October 7 attacks. The body of Loreta Alacre of Negros Occidental was brought home on October 21, the remains of Angelyn Aguirre of Pangasinan arrived on November 3 and the urn of Grace Cabrera was also brought to her hometown in Pampanga on November 6. Also on Tuesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said 46 Filipinos in Gaza have been given the go signal to cross the Rafah border and were expected to reach Cairo, Egypt, on Tuesday evening. The Filipinos were divided in two batches. “I’m pleased to inform you that they all have been approved for crossing today,” DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said in a virtual briefing. “It’s not just a batch of 20 but the second batch as well, which were approved for crossing today,” he said. “They will be home within the week,” the DFA official said. He added, “We talked to the Israeli ambassador [to Manila Ilan Fluss] yesterday who also worked on this tirelessly.” g
cells” (a secretive group on standby to conduct “infiltration and intervention activities”) in the country. PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said the police force and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) are monitoring reports on the alleged sleeper cells.
“With regards to sleeper cells, there are some accomplishments with other law enforcement units, and the NBI arrested some individuals. This is alarming; we are looking into it, and of course, it is not remote,” Acorda said in a press briefing. PAGE 10
DOT chief highlights Philippines’ tourism education... PAGE 1 that the government wants to deliver “quality tourism education” to its asset, the Filipino people. “Our Philippine government has applied a trifocal approach towards tourism education from basic education to technical vocational to higher education, as the Marcos administration envisions the Philippines to be the center for excellence in terms of tourism training [programs],” she said. “We also apply a convergence approach towards tourism education, wherein we are in constant coordination with the private sector by way of our Tourism Industry Board Foundation, a composite of organizations from the entire tourism value chain that continues to collaborate with government in order to ensure that the needs of the industry are matched with the curriculum that’s provided by the schools,” Frasco added. The tourism chief cited that the DOT is working with the country’s education institutions to narrow the gap in addressing the mismatch between industry requirements for manpower, work readiness of the graduates of tourism and hospitality programs and make sure they will land employment opportunities suited for their courses. The DOT has so far partnered with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), through membership in the CHED Technical Panel for Tourism and Hospitality Programs, to provide inputs during review and updating of the curricula on tourism and hospitality courses. The department also participate in the holding of the Tourism Human Resource Congress every two years to update the
In this Nov. 6, 2023 photo, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco attends the World Travel Market Minister’s Summit in London. DOT, TPB / Released
industry and the academe on new trends and industry challenges. The agency cited that it has prepared a five-year Philippine Tourism Human Capital Development Plan (2021- 2025) “to identify challenges and outline strategies to develop and harness world-class Filipino tourism professionals.” Aside from these initiatives, the DOT offers a Tourism Industry Skills Program which provides free regular training sessions to tourism both for formal and informal workers to retool, upskill, and equip them with new knowledge and skills to be globally-competitive. The training sessions are delivered to tourism workforce in various sector as well as communitybased tourism organizations such as boatmen, souvenir vendors, massage therapists, taxi drivers, tourist police, among others. Education tourism Speaking before the panel, Frasco also gave a spotlight to the Philippines as a destination shaping up education tourism, citing that the country educates not just Filipinos but also foreign professionals. She cited that the country is the fifth global
provider for English as a Second Language (ESL) to international source markets such as South Korea, Japan, China, Taiwan, Thailand and some emerging markets like Vietnam, Mongolia and Russia. “And so, we feel that by investing in education both by way of training as well as in education tourism, we would be able to position the Philippines towards our president’s vision of transforming it into Asia’s tourism powerhouse,” Frasco said. The Philippine delegation to WTM, led by Frasco, is assisted by Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer Margarita Montemayor Nograles. They are also joined by some 20 private sector tourism stakeholders. Aside from tourism education, the delegation is also expected to forge connections between Philippine tourism product sellers and international buyers, build interest in hosting international events in the country and further promote Philippine tourist destinations. Philippines on spotlight The country is also showcasing a Philippine
Pavilion that features Filipino hospitality and talent with master weavers, mixologists, baristas to impress visitors. Its design blends natural materials with Solihiya, a traditional Filipino pattern representing unity, strength and resilience, mirroring the spirit of the Filipino people. It also features bamboo bikes used when touring the Intramuros complex. Visitors of the booth may also wear traditional Filipiniana and Barong Tagalog. Frasco said the Philippines’ participation at the WTF will promote the country as a global destination with diverse offerings. “This global exposure also helps us attract more investors that can enhance our portfolio of tourism gems and further President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s goal to position the country as a tourism powerhouse in Asia,” she said. According to DOT, WTM gathers thousands of tourism professionals including leaders from across the globe such as executives of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). They convene to deliberate on tourism policy, strategy, development, and investment. In 2022, WTM welcomed more than 35,000 tourism professionals from 184 countries. This year, it is expected to draw 20% more new exhibitors from different parts of the world, including high-profile participants from the UK. The event that opened November 6, is being staged until November 8 at the ExCel Convention Centre in London, UK. g
8
NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023
9
10 NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
Marcos to push for food, energy, Palestinian spouses of health, digital ties in US APEC summit Filipinos to be allowed
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will persuade his fellow Asia-Pacific leaders to step up the region’s food, energy, health and digital partnerships, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Tuesday, November 7. This, as DFA Undersecretary Charles Jose confirmed Marcos’ participation in the 30th AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Meeting in San Francisco, California in the United States on Nov. 15 to 17. In a pre-departure briefing with Palace reporters, Jose said Marcos would push for financing a “just, sustainable and affordable” energy transition through partnerships with the business sector. “He (Marcos) will emphasize the need to invest more on clean energy to preserve and protect the environment while ensuring that we are energy secure and sufficient,” Jose said. Jose said Marcos would also call for “deeper” cooperation on health to modernize healthcare systems and
protect the welfare of medical professionals, taking into consideration the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. He said the digital participation of micro, small and medium enterprises in the Philippines would also be raised by Marcos, as part of the current administration’s digitalization efforts. “The president will also touch on digitalization and innovation, given that digital transformation is already upon us and how we can best prepare our workforce and the larger human resource,” he said. “The president will continue to push for cooperation in food security particularly focusing on research and development, innovation and equity and inclusivity so as to benefit our small farmers and in climate action, given the urgent need to be resilient to climate change,” Jose added. Jose said this year’s APEC theme “Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All” is aligned with the Marcos administration’s economic agenda, the
Philippine Development Plan 2023-2027, and eight-point socioeconomic agenda. The summit brings together 21 economies from around the Asia-Pacific to collaborate on the shared goal of creating a more open, resilient, sustainable and peaceful future for the people of the world’s most dynamic region. The APEC’s 21 member economies are Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, the U.S., and Vietnam. Business, bilateral meetings Jose said Marcos would also attend the APEC CEO Summit and the APEC Leaders Dialogue with the APEC Business Advisory Council; lead a Philippine Economic Briefing; meet with top companies in the U.S.; and hold bilateral meetings with other world leaders on the sidelines of the summit. However, Jose could not
confirm yet any of the bilateral meetings due to “schedules and logistical considerations.” Additional working visits Marcos would likewise embark on working visits to Los Angeles, California and Honolulu, Hawaii and meet with Filipino communities. Marcos would leave for San Francisco on Nov. 17 and fly to Honolulu on Nov. 18 for a security briefing with the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, according to Jose. “The president is being invited to visit the IndoPacific Command. And he will also have a roundtable discussion with the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies,” Jose said, referring to the institution that provides a forum for military and civilian leaders from the Indo-Pacific to address regional and global security. “Well, of course it adds a layer to the cooperation that we are trying to establish with like-minded states in order to promote what we have been advocating all along -- a rulesbased order especially in the maritime areas,” he added. (PNA)
Worldwide concern for Israel-Hamas war...
PAGE 5 by Iran-backed militant groups, and may conduct even more defensive airstrikes to deter Iran-backed militias. There is U.S. intelligence suggesting that Syria has agreed to supply Hezbollah with Russian-made surface-to-air defense missile system to be delivered by the Wagner Group, although it is unclear if delivery has been made. During his trip to Tel Aviv where he met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and top Israeli officials, State Secretary Antony Blinken reiterated that the U.S. stands by Israel and recognizes that it has the right and the obligation to defend itself and make sure that the horrific Oct. 7 attack will not happen again. Visibly shaken, Secretary Blinken also expressed shock that the brutality of the attack by Hamas against Israeli communities near Gaza seems to have “receded so quickly in the memories of so many” as he described some of the horrific videos shown him during the meeting with the Israeli leaders. But at the same time, he also called for humanitarian pauses in the war with Hamas to facilitate the exit of people from Gaza and allow aid to come in, saying “civilians should not suffer the consequences” for the inhumanity and brutality of Hamas. “We need to do more to protect Palestinian civilians,” Blinken stated, admitting that “a number of legitimate
questions were raised,” including the use of such pauses to maximize the flow of humanitarian assistance and the release of hostages while making sure that Hamas will not use the arrangements to its advantage. This is a conflagration that everyone is watching very carefully, with people monitoring how things will pan out, walking on eggshells because the situation is rapidly deteriorating. During a dinner I attended recently, I spoke with an analyst of a Washingtonbased think-tank that the U.S. political climate – with sharp divisions among legislators – is adding to the anxiety of the world as Congress gears up for a new round of resolutions to avoid another government shutdown because the Nov. 17 deadline is fast approaching, right in the middle of the APEC Summit in San Francisco. The Gaza conflict could also impact the outcome of the 2024 U.S. presidential elections, with President Joe Biden having to manage the conflicting pressure coming from Jewish, Arab and Muslim communities whose leaders have met with the president. While antiSemitism is on the rise particularly on college campuses, there is also growing Islamophobia among Americans. But what is concerning for a lot of countries including the Philippines is that the Israel-Hamas war, the volatile situation in the Middle East plus the war in Ukraine could distract the U.S. and
make it lose its focus on the Indo-Pacific region. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Kritenbrink, the top U.S. diplomat for East Asia, assures us, however, that the upcoming trip of Secretary Blinken to Japan, India and South Korea following his trips to Israel and Jordan is proof that the United States continues to be “laser focused” on the Indo-Pacific region. Surely, the anxiety level will continue to grow until next year as there seems to be no clear sign at this time when the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine will ultimately end. So far, a small glimmer of hope for the Indo-Pacific region – although many analysts are saying that nothing substantial will really come out of it – is the meeting between President Biden and Chinese president Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in San Francisco. It will take more than a bilateral meeting to smoothen relations between the U.S. and China. Nonetheless, it’s an encouraging sign that also brings some hope there would be some room for dialogue that could somehow ease tensions, especially in our part of the world.. (Philstar.com) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** babeseyeview@gmail.com
to leave Gaza — DFA by Gaea Katreena CabiCo Philstar.com
MANILA — The Palestinian spouses of Filipino nationals in the Gaza Strip will be allowed to leave the war-torn enclave, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Tuesday, November 7. Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said the verbal clearance for the safe passage of the Palestinian spouses into Egypt will make it easier for the government to convince Filipinos to leave the bombarded Gaza. “We’re just waiting for the confirmation in writing. But the Palestinian spouses of the Filipinos will also be allowed to leave Gaza with their spouses,” De Vega said in a press briefing. “That has been made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to [our] embassy,” he added. Of the 136 Filipinos in Gaza, 115 initially expressed their intention to leave. However, the DFA official said last week that only 46 individuals remained committed to being repatriated due to concerns about leaving their Palestinian spouses. De Vega also announced that the 46 Filipinos have been allowed to leave Gaza
and enter Egypt through the Rafah crossing Tuesday. The evacuation of foreigners, including Filipinos, from Gaza was delayed due to recent attacks. Of those, 39 nationals are currently at the border between Gaza and Egypt, while seven individuals “are having second thoughts about leaving,” De Vega said. “Our embassies in Amman and Cairo are certain that by tonight, local time, they will have been able to cross into Egypt… So they will be home within the week,” he said. Fighting raged in Gaza Tuesday, one month on since the unprecedented attacks by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on October 7, which has provoked relentless air strikes from Israel. Over 10,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, have been killed in the denselypopulated and besieged territory, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned that Gaza was becoming a “graveyard for children.” Meanwhile, the October 7 attacks by Hamas claimed 1,400 lives in Israel. g
PNP investigating...
PAGE 7 Likewise, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Brig. Gen. Jose Melencio Corpus Nartatez Jr. said they have yet to prove the existence of these sleeper cells — purportedly operated mainly by foreigners, particularly Chinese and Taiwanese nationals. “Tinitignan lahat ng anggulo and it boils down of course to the personality — anong makikita mo don na denominator are Chinese, Taiwanese or foreign nationals involved in Pogo (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators) operations,” Nartatez added. (We are looking at all possible angles, but it boils down, of course, to the personalities involved. The common denominator is that they are all foreign nationals — Chinese and Taiwanese involved in Pogo operations.) Last November 3, the Chinese Embassy denied the existence of these alleged sleeper cells. “[We are] working with the Philippine law enforcement authorities to investigate the said case to combat transnational criminal activities jointly. We have also noted that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) officer working on this case pointed out that there’s no truth that this is part of the plan of the Chinese to create a destabilization plot in the country,” the Chinese Embassy said in a statement. g
(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023
COMMUNITY JOURNAL
11
Atty. Gurfinkel answers immigration questions from Kapamilya at Little Manila in Woodside, New York on Citizen Pinoy LEADING U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel and the Citizen Pinoy team head to Little Manila in Woodside, Queens, New York, to talk to Kapamilya, who asks immigration questions on Citizen Pinoy’s latest edition of “Your Tanong, My
Sagot.” Woodside is one of the neighborhoods with the largest Filipino population in the state of New York. The area is known as “Little Manila” because of the many Filipino PAGE 12
Daniel talks about future plans with Kathryn By Nathalie tomada
aware that it’s something that requires careful preparation. The press recently got to talk to Daniel on the sidelines of his new brand endorsement for the RKitchen bottled gourmet products, founded in 2019 by young entrepreneurial couple
Philstar.com
DANIEL Padilla has obviously discussed the topic of marriage and settling down with his girlfriend, Kathryn Bernardo. He is levelheaded about it and
Ryan and Reese Regua. In response to a STAR question, the 28-year-old shared what he wants to do first before taking the plunge with his long-time reel and real-life partner. “Let’s take it easy. Nice PAGE 13
KAPAMILYA IN WOODSIDE, QUEENS, NEW YORK, GET ANSWERS TO THEIR IMMIGRATION QUESTIONS FROM LEADING U.S. IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL IN PART 1 OF “YOUR TANONG, MY SAGOT.” Atty. Gurfinkel (right) answers the following questions – From Marisa (left), a civil surgeon who conducts physical exams for those applying for a green card: What can I tell patients who ask me, “How long before my case gets approved?”; From Kerwin (second from left): My wife and I filed our joint petition on our third year of marriage. Why has my green card not arrived yet?; From Lorna (third from left): I was petitioned by my employer in 2007. I have not received my green card yet, and my employer is now 94 years old. What can I do? Be sure to tune in for the answers to these questions from Kapamilya in Woodside, Queens, New York in Part 1 of “Your Tanong, My Sagot” on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, November 12 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement)
LEASING FULLY FURNISHED CALL CENTER OFFICES
info@salesrain.com
www.salesrain.com +63 917 311 7246 / +1 858 229 9858
PRIVATE OFFICES
BPO SEAT LEASING
Beautifully designed offices in prime locations
Fully-fitted workstations that are plug & play ready
SEMI-PRIVATE OFFICE BCP/BACKUP SITE Continuity strategy for business operations
Versatile layouts that can be easily customized
INQUIRE NOW!
WE UNDERSTAND YOUR BUSINESS MAKATI
•
BGC
•
MANDALUYONG
Check out our brand new flexible serviced offices and book a tour today! •
ORTIGAS
•
BRIDGETOWNE
•
EASTWOOD
12 NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
Oprah Winfrey’s floral stylist Atty. Gurfinkel answers... holds master class in Manila ‘I have made it my mission to help our floriculture industry grow,’ says New York-based Jerry Sibal
By Marge C. enriquez Inquirer.net
IN 2015, New York-based Jerry Sibal was tapped by casino mogul and real estate developer Steve Wynn to be one of the three major floral designers/stylists of the 1,706room Wynn Palace in Macau. In the company of celebrity stylists Preston Bailey and Jeff Leatham, Sibal created humongous arrangements for the floral-themed casino. When he was tasked to look at the price list, he noted that flowers came from all over Southeast Asia except the Philippines. “I have since made it my mission to help our floriculture industry grow,” he says. This time, Sibal is making preparations for the “Bagong Pagsibol (New Harvest)”: Philippine International Flower Festival (PIFF) May 3 to May 5, 2024, at the new exhibition hall of One Ayala. First lady Liza Marcos recommended that the PIFF should be held in the month of flowers. The three-day event will consist of floriculture (ornamentals, potted plants, greenery) and horticulture (plants for the landscape) exhibits, lectures on farming trends, floral farm management, government policies and floriculture planting. Experts will conduct floral design workshops. It will also be a B2B (business to business transaction) event wherein the floriculture/horticulture trade can promote their products and services. Endorsed by the Office of the First Lady, the event is sponsored by the Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board, the Department of Agriculture and Bureau of Plant Industry. “The Philippines had unique species — vandas and phalaenopses — which are now propagated by other countries. Thailand and Taiwan are the biggest growers in the region. Vietnam has become a major flower producer,” says Sibal. Ironically, some of the big flower farms in Vietnam are managed by Filipinos. “We have been left behind in the Asean,” he said.
Jerry Sibal
Creating more jobs When Sibal toured the Philippines, he was amazed at the variety such as the jade vine in the rainforests and the cherry blossoms in Palawan and Benguet. He notes that the orchids, particularly the waling-waling of Mindanao — dubbed the Queen of Philippine Flowers — dendrobiums and the phalaenopses have become endangered due to habitat destruction and overcollection. The PIFF aims to target farmers, exporters, retailers, florists, events planners and students.
The idealist that he is, Sibal hopes that the PIFF would open the eyes of Filipinos on the cultivation and preservation of the flowers and how the floriculture business could create more jobs. As a prelude to the PIFF, Sibal is conducting an international floral design master class and fashion show at the Dusit Thani on Nov. 11. Titled “Nature Meets Fashion,” the event enlists florists/entrepreneurs Christian Angga Warella of Indonesia, Thong Weng Seng of Malaysia and April Ong of the Philippines to share their expertise. Sibal and the guest lecturers will likewise present floral accessories such as overskirts, headpieces and bouquets to complement the ethnic, avant-garde and wedding clothes by fashion designer Pie Tanada. With more than 30 years of experience, Sibal worked with renowned floral designer and events stylist Preston Bailey. Sibal’s own company, Design Fusion, has serviced Oprah Winfrey, Richard Branson, the Citibank headquarters and the PAGE 13
PAGE 11 businesses, like Kabayan Bistro, a popular Filipino restaurant, and Max’s Restaurant, where Citizen Pinoy’s Atty. Gurfinkel answered questions from the guests. • Lorna was petitioned by her employer back in 2007. To date, she has not yet received her green card, and she is worried because her employer is now 94 years old. She wants to know what she can do to get her green card. • Kerwin shared that in their third year of marriage, he and his wife filed their joint petition. Kerwin wants to know why it is taking a long time for his green card to arrive. • One of the guests asking a question is an internist from Woodside who also happens to be a civil surgeon who conducts physical exams as part of the documentation required for those applying for a green card. Dr. Marissa (left) gets the same question from many of her patients after the physical exams: “How long before my case gets approved?” While it is not part of her job, she wants to know what she can tell her patients. Atty. Gurfinkel is also
Lorna (left) with Atty. Gurfinkel
Kerwin (left) with Atty. Gurfinkel
Dr. Marissa (left) with Atty. Gurfinkel
given a quick tour of “Little Manila” by local resident and restaurateur Nel Castellvi. Atty. Gurfinkel answers these questions in part 1 of “Your Tanong, My Sagot” in Woodside in Queens, New York. Watch this encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy”
on Sunday, November 12 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET through select Cable/ Satellite providers), right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app. (Advertising Supplement)
Alex bares second miscarriage By iza iglesias ManilaTimes.net
Floral dress by Jerry Sibal for Likha at SM Aura made of monsteras, hydrangeas, roses, lilies.
TV host-actress and content creator Alex Gonzaga revealed that she had a second miscarriage last October. Gonzaga had a miscarriage in October 2021. She and husband Lipa City Councilor Mikee Morada tied the knot in November 2020 after four years of dating. She bared the sad news in an interview with her sister, Toni, which was aired on YouTube channel “Toni Talks” on Sunday, November 5. “During that time, I felt a lot of pressure. I felt pressured by people asking, ‘Hasn’t she given birth yet?’ And of course, what happened to me earlier this year during my birthday,” she said in Tagalog, recalling the bashing she got on social media after she was caught on video smearing cake icing on a waiter’s forehead during her birthday party last January. PAGE 13
Alex Gonzaga
Photo from Instgram/@cathygonzaga
(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com
Daniel talks about future plans with... PAGE 11 and slow, ‘di ba? Kailangan natin galawin ang ating chess board ng tama. ‘Wag natin madaliin ang mga bagay kasi nga ito palang ang dami naming gagawin,” Daniel said, also referring to successive films he’s about to take on soon after his acting break. In the pipeline for the actor is Kamatayan, which he described is a story about life and redemption; one film with Volpi Best Actor John Arcilla; and another one he’s not allowed to announce yet. So, Daniel said that they should finish their work responsibilities first, especially that they will be renewing their contract with ABS-CBN. They want to move to the next level where they don’t have to worry about multiple things simultaneously, otherwise they will overwhelm themselves. “So, tapusin muna natin ‘to. Lalo at mag-re-renew pa kami with ABS-CBN. So, latagin natin ng maigi, tapos next level na, yung wala ka ng iniisip. Hindi yung mag-next level, tapos ang dami naming pinupukpok, alam mo yun? Ang hirap pagsabay-sabayin so lalatagin lang natin ng maigi.” His thoughts were aligned with Kathryn’s past pronouncements about the matter. She previously explained that getting married is still a long way off for them. She said they are currently at the peak of their careers and, in the case of the 27-year-old actress, she has financial responsibilities like building a house. She also acknowledged that it’s not the right time yet but is openly talking about it. “He (Daniel) respects my timing din sa akin. Alam ko
EMPLOYMENT
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023 13
Oprah Winfrey’s floral stylist... PAGE 12 Royal Family of Qatar. In 2009, he authored “An Event to Remember: Designing Spectacular Special Occasions,” a compilation of his dramatic works. Sibal had since been involved in producing shows with his partner Edwin Josue and their not-for-profit Friends of the Philippines USA. This year he sent his
proposal for the PIFF to the first lady who showed her interest in the project. As a teaser for the event, he created the centerpiece, a mannequin in a floral gown, for Likha, the first lady’s project for promoting indigenous weaves, at SM Aura. Sibal hopes that the upcoming floral trade show will make country appre-
ciate flowers as high value crops. “There’s a demand but the industry can’t cope with supply. The industry needs to improve cultivation and harvesting. We hope to boost floral exports,” he says. “Nature Meets Fashion” will be held Nov. 11, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Mayuree Ballroom, Dusit Thani Makati; tel. 0917-1882656, 0917-6463566. g
Alex bares second miscarriage...
Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo
Photo from Instagram/@bernardokath
rin na ‘di pa ako ready,” she said on the sidelines of her solo project, the dark comedy A Very Good Girl, which last month breached the P100 million mark in the box-office and has since been screened in the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the U.K., the U.A.E., and Asian countries like Malaysia and Cambodia. Daniel confirmed that Star Cinema is also cooking a film project for him and Kathryn but they are focused on their individual projects. “Yes, (there’s a Star Cinema film) pero gawin mo na natin itong mga solo,” he told The STAR. “Let’s take a break for now so that when we come back, we’ll be more excited, because we’ve done so much together. We want to find... so when we return,
our comeback will be even more heartfelt. Talagang comeback. “So, that’s what we can assure. Tatlong projects na solo muna.” Meanwhile, this paper also asked Daniel for his reaction to the box-office success of Kathryn’s starrer with first Filipino Globe Globe nominee Dolly de Leon. “Thank you very much,” a very proud Daniel said. “Sinabi ko (before), si Kathryn yung may hawak ng bola ngayon and for her to shoot it, binuhay rin niya ang mundo ng pelikula. No one else can do it; only my girlfriend, Kathryn, can do it. Saludo lang tayo sa kanya. Let’s just salute her. Yun namang hindi nagsasabi ng (maganda) sa industriya, wala na silang masasabi sa
FOR SALE
PAGE 12 “So, every time I met someone, they would say things like, ‘Oh, you’re actually kind,’ and I thought, ‘Why did that connotation develop about me this year?’ I couldn’t help but think, ‘I hope, Lord, the pain I’ve been through. I hope all that pain will result in something beautiful.’ Maybe this [getting pregnant] is it,” the 35-year-old Gonzaga added. She and husband Lipa City Councilor Mikee Morada had been attempting to have a child through in-vitro fertilization (IVF), but the procedure didn’t succeed. She said that she apologized to Morada, who she said had provided unwavering support from the moment they started the IVF process. “I told him, ‘Mikee, I’m sorry, it didn’t work out again. He responded, ‘Don’t apologize, we still have many embryos, so let’s keep going.’” kanya.” Daniel has been incredibly supportive from the moment Kathryn began working on her solo project. He has become a crucial sounding board for the actress. “Ginagawa palang ni Kathryn yun, nag-aayos na kami ng script,” he shared. “Binubuo palang niya ang character, kami na ang naguusap ano yung mga gagawin niya. ‘Di ko na sasabihin kung ano man yung mga eksena.” However, he also made it clear that he doesn’t interfere. “Of course, I don’t
“He doesn’t show his sadness to me. Sometimes I also feel sad because Mikee would say to me, ‘You know, I’m really happy even if it’s just the two of us.’” “But, of course, I get annoyed with him because why would he say that? But he says, ‘You know, honestly, I’m already happy.’ Because when I cook him food, he’d say, ‘I’m very happy when it’s just the two of us. A baby would just be a bonus for me.’ So, when I think about it, I get emotional because he’s already at that level.” Gonzaga said Morada told her, “’It’s painful to expect, so I’m fine if the Lord gives this to us. I’m already content.’” “He’s really very supportive, but he doesn’t show his emotions to me. But what I’ve seen the most in Mikee is that he’s a true partner who never makes you feel like it’s your fault. He’s really there for you.” g
really get too involved. That’s how we are. We respect each other’s boundaries. Like for her film, I’m more in the background, sa side muna ako. (I told her) Siempre, ikaw kasi ito, spotlight mo, sayo lahat. Dito lang ako, nasa dilim naka-bantay.” He further stressed that he’s happy and grateful for opportunities to do projects outside their tandem, KathNiel, still considered as the top loveteam in Philippine showbiz. “What more can you ask for? It’s for growth eh. We need self-growth,” he
emphasized Asked if he felt any pressure to be independent of each other, Daniel said, “What is pressure? ‘Pag na-pressure ka, may pinanggagalingan na negative yun. Sa amin wala. Kung ano ang ibibigay, I’m happy, I’m thankful. Parang ano pa gusto kong patunayan? Alam mo yun? “At the end of the day, ‘pag nabigay mo lahat, ‘pag mahal mo yung ginagawa mo and you’re proud of if, whatever is the outcome, nasa Diyos na yun and nasa tao, public, na yun.” g
14 NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY N OV E M B E R 1 0, 2 0 23
14
people events arts culture entertainment
‘Poor Yella Rednecks,’ Maureen Sebastian, and the power of immigrant stories by MOMAR G. VISAYA / AJPress
AUREEN Sebastian’s name graces the marquee as one of the lead actors in “Poor Yella Rednecks,” the sequel to Qui Nguyen’s acclaimed play, “Vietgone.” This M gripping new production masterfully unravels the complexities of immigrant life in the 1980s, offering a fresh perspective on the Asian-American experience.
Jon Norman Schneider and Maureen Sebastian play the mother (Tong) and the playwright
Maureen Sebastian and her two love interests in Poor Yella Rednecks - Ben Levin and Paco Tolson
Jon Norman Schneider as the Little Man puppet and Ben Levin as Quang
Vietgone was about how these lovers met, Poor Yella Rednecks is about their relationship when they had a kid. Maureen Sebastian and Ben Levin both deliver powerful and emotional performances. Photos by Jeremy Daniel
Sebastian’s role in the play resonates deeply with her own journey. It’s a journey that began nearly two decades ago when she forged a creative partnership with playwright Qui Nguyen. Their initial encounter occurred when Sebastian was a fresh college graduate at the age of 22. Although their first meeting didn’t result in an immediate collaboration, it marked the beginning of a fruitful artistic connection that endures to this day. Her path into the world of theater was shaped by her Filipino heritage and her family’s determined commitment to education. Sebastian pursued degrees in both theater performance and English at the University of Michigan. Her immigrant parents, who had worked tirelessly to secure a better future, supported her passion for the arts while ensuring she had a solid academic foundation. “My parents are very supportive no matter what but being immigrants from the Philippines, having made their way up the socio-economic ladder here in the United States with nothing, they wanted me to do what made me happy but they also didn’t know what being an actor and an artist meant,” Sebastian told the Asian Journal. “So as much as they wanted to support me, they also wanted me to have something of a backup plan.” Though Sebastian humbly refrains from embracing the
Playwright Qui Nguyen and director May Adrales
Photos by Rebecca J Michelson
John Hoche, Samantha Quan, Ben Levin, Maureen Sebastian, Jon Norman Schneider with “Little Man” puppet, and Paco Tolson Photos by Rebecca J Michelson
label of a “triple threat,” her skills as an actor, singer, and dancer are there. “I am an actor that can sometimes sing a song and hold a beat and can learn choreography if I really need to,” she quipped. “Poor Yella Rednecks” challenged her versatility as she dabbled in rap and hip hop music. Raised in diverse communities across the Midwest, Sebastian developed a deep affinity for hip hop, a genre that profoundly resonated with her immigrant experience. She recalls that her
persistent commitment to an acting career became evident during her high school years, where a pivotal moment set her on a course that she couldn’t ignore. Following her grandfather’s advice to pursue what made her happiest, she made a firm commitment to a life as a performing artist. Her journey from those formative years to the stages of New York City was marked by unyielding determination and the steadfast support of her parents. Despite their initial reservations, they
stood solidly behind her artistic aspirations. Sebastian’s work, particularly in plays like “Poor Yella Rednecks” holds the power to shape the cultural landscape by celebrating and valuing Asian-American stories. The play is a sequel to “Vietgone,” where Nguyen showed – rom-com style how his parents Tong and Quang met at a refugee camp after escaping the fall of Saigon. The sequel is as fun, raucous, and irreverent as the first and gives the audience a glimpse of the life of immigrants from Vietnam who settled in Arkansas in the 1980s. The amazing cast of six highlighted Sebastian and Ben Levin as the couple, with Jon Norman Schneider playing their son, the playwright. Jon Hoche, Samantha Quan, and Paco Tolson complete the powerful ensemble. Nguyen’s narrative embodies the quintessential immigrant experience, and would resonate deeply with Filipinos who recognize the familiar dynamics. Instances like a grandmother shouldering childcare duties due to parents’ work commitments, or the prevalence of the mother tongue at home leading to schoolyard teasing for struggling with English, strike a chord. The playwright also pays homage to the musical “Hamilton,” emphasizing the mantra ‘Immigrants: we PAGE 15
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023 15
(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com
Why Lovi keeps glowing despite long-distance marriage By tessa mauricio-arriola ManilaTimes.net
Kylie Padilla and Aljur Abrenica at the 2019 ABS-CBN Ball
Philstar.com photo
Kylie on relationship with Aljur: ‘I wish nagtira ako para sa sarili ko’ By Kathleen a. llemit Philstar.com
KYLIE Padilla said she wished she saved some for herself when she got into a relationship with exhusband Aljur Abrenica. The actress sat down with Boy Abunda for the latter’s late afternoon show “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,” with the episode airing last Friday, November 3. She was asked by Boy what was the important lesson she learned from her relationship with Aljur. “Medyo cliche e, but I wish nagtira ako para sa sarili ko. Kasi, I gave my all talaga,” Kylie said. She said it was the reason why she had earlier asked the host why love changes over time. Kylie said that like all other couples, she and Aljur had their struggles. For the actress, however, she chose to work on their relationship. “But because I made the promise of marriage, even if, sabi ko sa sarili ko, ‘Okay, if I am unhappy now, and magiging ganito na ang setup namin, paglalaban ko pa rin para sa mga anak ko,’” the actress said. She was forced to stop sharing at this point as her voice cracked and she was trying to compose herself. “Inubos ko and nauwi din sa hiwalayan,” she said. ‘I don’t believe in marriage’ Kylie said it was important for her to keep her family because she came from a broken one. She also shared her thoughts about the public’s prejudice for
celebrities’ relationships, especially those who deem them to tend to switch partners more often. “I hate it when people say, ‘Artista ‘yan, palit-palit lang like, that’s their life. Ganun talaga ‘yung style ng mga artista when it comes to relationships.’ But people don’t know how much it hurt me,” she explained. Her reply prompted Boy to say that that was “unfair.” Kylie agreed, “It’s very unfair. And I wanted more for my kids talaga.” She also revealed that she went through postpartum depression. “I made a promise to my self talaga e. Kahit na I went to postpartum noon, and postpartum was very hard, it’s a very difficult thing for a woman to go through. Pero pinaglaban ko pa rin. Hanggang sa dulo na paninindigan ko ang ginawa namin na kasal. And the fact na it wasn’t returned, masakit sa akin ‘yon.” At this point, Kylie revealed that she was not one for marriage, but she chose it for her children’s sake. “Sa totoo lang, I don’t believe in marriage. I don’t. But because I want my kids to have a whole family, I did it. I did it because gusto kong maranasan nila ‘yun na buo ‘yun. “Walang pagsisisi, wala. Kasi my kids have a really good relationship with their dad until now. And one thing that I don’t want them to go through is wala silang tatay o maramdaman nilang wala silang tatay. So wala akong pagsisisi,” she ended. g
Hardly a week after her fairytale wedding at the centuries-old Cliveden House in Berkshire, England, last August, noted actress and the former Lovi Poe had to fly back to Manila to return to set and resume work on her toprated primetime series. Now officially Mrs. Blencowe, she and her lucky new hubby Monty (short for Montgomery) needed to go back to their long-distance relationship (LDR) since work was likewise waiting for him in the United States. Monty is a scientist and film producer based in Los Angeles. Finally holding her first major media conference since exchanging “I do’s,” it was good to see Lovi, just before the long All Saints/ All Souls break, still in high spirits. You’d think she’d seem a bit down, longing for her husband of barely three months, with whom she didn’t even get to honeymoon. Admirably and ever the professional, she had her emotions in check. In fact, she was just as radiant as the holiday jewelry collection she helped launch that day for her longtime brand ambassadorship, Imono. Lovi explained that she remains very much the blushing bride because she is joyful and grateful that she married a very supportive and understanding man. Lovi said that since getting together with Monty three years ago, he never stopped
Lovi Poe
Photo from Instagram/@lovipoe
her from pursuing her career, well aware that she is passionate about acting. “We haven’t even talked about where we’ll eventually decide to settle in the future because, like I said, I’m just very happy that, he’s very understanding of my job. That’s why I’m the one who does the traveling [to see him] from wherever I am or wherever he is. “I’m so lucky he is taking [our arrangement] the positive way because he really wants to see me shine and succeed as an individual. I know we’re on the next level —the next stage [of our lives] — but he still wants to see me fly,” Lovi added appreciatively. As for baby questions and when they plan to have
a little bundle of their own, Lovi was frank in replying, “Of course, we want to have a baby, but, so far, right now, we just want to focus on work and being together.” With the holidays coming, Lovi is looking forward to a freer schedule so that she and her husband can finally go on honeymoon. “Any suggestions?” she jokingly asked the room. After satisfying all the burning questions about her new married life, Lovi thoughtfully took the opportunity to thank Goldy and Imono for being part of her wedding. “I wore an Imono locket which had the photo of my dad [the late
King of Philippine Movies, Fernando Poe, Jr.] inside, and I gave one to Monty too to keep in his suit pocket, with his dad’s picture there as well. That way, we made them part of our wedding even if they’re no longer with us,” she touchingly said. Taken by surprise, Goldy deeply appreciated Lovi’s gesture and how it’s not just lip talk. She does wear Imono jewelry wherever she goes and whatever she does. So finally, in her speech, Goldy recalled how Lovi has been an ambassador for Imono Jewelry for several years now. “She is an incredibly effective endorser because the jewelry products of the company suit her perfectly. In fact, Imono’s prices are very affordable, but when Lovi wears them, they appear quite luxurious,” the entrepreneur added. “Following her wedding, we just wanted to reintroduce Lovi as our endorser. “I can truly say that we’ve been very supportive of each other and Lovi, especially with the brand and every collection that we launch, like our latest holiday collection.” It wasn’t lost on Goldy that the celebratory theme of the holiday pieces is very timely for Lovi what with the momentous milestones she had just had. “We should really celebrate all the good things that happen to us every day,” said Mrs. Blencowe. And for sure, they’re all the more easy to appreciate when one is deeply in love. g
‘Poor Yella Rednecks,’ Maureen...
PAGE 14 get the job done’ for added impact, drawing parallels to the resilience and determination of those forging a new life in a foreign land. Sebastian is thankful that she found a great group of co-workers in the play, people who possess a remarkable level of expertise in their respective fields and demonstrate exceptional proficiency in their work. “This cast is the most amazing group of people I’ve ever worked with in my entire life,” she quipped. “Most importantly, they’re just like wonderful, beautiful, kind, human beings.” The play is ably directed by fellow Filipino American May Adrales and two other cast members – Jon Hoche and
Jon Norman Schneider - are of Filipino descent as well. “I feel like as an actor or like in the theater community if you’re Filipino, the first thing you talk about is like, where are you from? Where’s your family from? Where did you grow up? What was your experience like? You know, it’s just how do you not talk about those things,” she revealed. As she navigates her career, she acknowledges the profound impact of her art, not only on herself but on the generations that follow. For Sebastian, acting in plays like Poor Yella Rednecks brings a sense of fulfillment, knowing she is honoring her ancestors. She takes pride in making her family proud and contributing to
the progression of celebrating and cherishing Asian American narratives in the nation. That said, she looks forward to the time when her children will have something that they can look forward to and look back and say, ‘Yeah, Mommy was a part of that’. Through her roles in plays like “Poor Yella Rednecks,” Maureen Sebastian amplifies the narratives of immigrants, weaving threads of shared experiences and cultural richness into the tapestry of American theater. Her performances serve as a testament to the depth and complexity of Asian-American stories, dispelling stereotypes and offering a more nuanced portrayal of our diverse society. g
16 NOVEMBER 10-16, 2023 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426