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From the Front Page
Should travelers cancel holiday... PAGE 1 Foreign travelers entering the U.S. still need to be fully vaccinated in order to travel, but unvaccinated Americans and legal permanent residents are permitted to enter the U.S. with a test taken within one day of their departure to the U.S. President Joe Biden also announced that masks are required for all travelers in airports, planes, trains, and other public transit modes — again, regardless of vaccination status and nationality. This federal mandate is an extension of a previous one and applies through March 18. The CDC warns that a person should be fully vaccinated before traveling internationally, while the World Health Organization (WHO) advises people who are not fully vaccinated, have never been infected, and have underlying health issues to postpone travel plans. Last week, the Biden administration announced a travel ban of foreign nationals of eight countries in southern Africa: Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. The controversial ban came after the CDC classified these nations as “very high” for COVID-19 transmission. U.S. citizens and LPRs who
may be in those countries are permitted to return with the oneday test requirement. These travel restrictions, and the threat of a new coronavirus variant entering new countries, put a hold on travel plans, even those who plan to travel to and from countries with no currently known cases of omicron. Over the Thanksgiving holiday (which was when the WHO classified omicron a “variant of concern”) U.S. airlines transported about 2.4 million passengers, the most since February 2020. Though not much is known about the variant so far, health officials and experts are urging travelers to not risk it and stay home for the holidays. “We’ll know more in a couple weeks, but I think people should really get ready to hit the pause button [on air travel plans],” Dr. Robert Murphy, professor of infectious diseases and director of the Institute for Global Health at Northwestern University, told NPR this week. He added that immunocompromised individuals, senior citizens, and anyone with any underlying health issues “should not be traveling anywhere.” Murphy especially cautioned people planning to travel overseas, who are “at much higher risk than” domestic travelers.
With countries imposing their own travel restrictions, there’s a chance that travelers may find their flights canceled and themselves stranded overseas. Following the news of omicron, the Philippines quickly imposed its own travel ban and restrictions to prevent the spread of the new variant. Along with the aforementioned southern African countries, the Philippine government added Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, and Switzerland — which all have reported cases of omicron — to its red list, barring travelers until Dec. 15. The U.S. had not been included in its red list despite reporting cases of Omicron in multiple states, including California, however, travelers to the Philippines will be subjected to quarantine protocols depending on their vaccination status and COVID-19 test results. “Border controls can be used to delay entry of the new virus and buy time, but every country and community must prepare for new surges,” Dr. Babatunde Olowokure, regional emergency director of WHO, said on Friday in a press briefing. In the Western Pacific region, the omicron variant has been detected in Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea. n
Los Angeles County reports third case of... PAGE 1 son. Residents can walk-in to any Public Health vaccination site or make an appointment at the hundreds of additional sites across the county. For more information, visit VaccinateLACounty. com. Residents who have traveled for the holidays should get tested if they traveled internationally or to locations in this country with
high transmission rates, or they participated at gatherings and events with large numbers of people. There are free testing sites throughout the county and individuals can go to https://covid19.lacounty.gov/testing/ to find out information about where to get tested. Residents must also isolate if they have a positive COVID test result and quarantine if they are a vaccinated close con-
tact with symptoms or if they are an unvaccinated close contact. All residents across LA County should continue following masking protocols, which require residents to wear a mask when indoors or at large outdoor mega events — regardless of vaccination status. Individuals should also wear a mask when at any crowded indoor or outdoor events. n
Duterte accepts invite from Biden to... PAGE 1 work necessary to shape a prosperous and peaceful future built on respect for the rights and aspirations of all people.” “We recognize and appreciate your partnership in working to build democratic and human-
rights respecting societies that allow all citizens to thrive. In a moment of significant challenge and enormous opportunity, it is more important than ever for democracies to prove that we can deliver for the needs of our people,” OP said,
quoting Biden in his invitation as saying. Biden also said he looks forward to welcoming Duterte and hearing his ideas on “how we can foster a more democratic, equitable, inclusive and sustainable world.” n
SWAB TEST FIRST. A woman undergoes a swab test, a mandatory dispatch procedure prior to going back home to the province, as a beneficiary of the Balik Probinsya program on Monday, December 6. Once tested positive for the coronavirus, beneficiaries would have to undergo quarantine before they can leave Manila. PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler
Is it time to change the definition of...
PAGE 1
that only people 50 and up “should” get a shot while younger adults could choose whether or not to do so. Scientists assume the additional shots will offer significant protection from the new variant, though they do not know for certain how much. Dr. Anthony Fauci, chief medical adviser to President Joe Biden, during a White House press briefing Wednesday was unequivocal in advising the public. “Get boosted now,” Fauci said, adding urgency to the current federal guidance. About a quarter of U.S. adults have received additional vaccine doses. “The definition of ‘fully vaccinated’ has not changed. That’s, you know, after your second dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, after your single dose of a Johnson & Johnson vaccine,” said the CDC’s director, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, during Tuesday’s White House briefing on covid. “We are absolutely encouraging those who are eligible for a boost six months after those mRNA doses to get your boost. But we are not changing the definition of ‘fully vaccinated’ right now.” A booster
is recommended two months after receiving the J&J shot. But that, she noted, could change: “As that science evolves, we will look at whether we need to update our definition of ‘fully vaccinated.’” Still, the Democratic governors of Connecticut and New Mexico are sending a different signal in their states, as are some countries — such as Israel, which arguably has been the most aggressive nation in its approach. Some scientists point out that many vaccines involve three doses over six months for robust long-term protection, such as the shot against hepatitis. So “fully vaccinated” may need to include shot No. 3 to be considered a full course. “In my view, if you were vaccinated more than six months ago, you’re not fully vaccinated,” Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont said Nov. 18 during a press briefing. He was encouraging everyone to get boosted at that time, even before the federal government authorized extra shots for everyone. New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham had a similar response in mid-November, saying she defined “fully vac-
cinated” as receiving three shots of the mRNA type. She also opened up booster eligibility to all of her state residents before the CDC and Food and Drug Administration did. What do the varying views on the evolving science mean for vaccine requirements imposed on travelers, or by schools or workplaces? And what about businesses that have required patrons to provide proof of vaccination? Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania, said the CDC’s stronger recommendation for everyone to get boosted signals to him that a booster is now part of the vaccine regimen. Yet Offit, who is also a member of the FDA’s vaccine advisory committee, wrote a joint op-ed this week in which he and two other scientists argued that boosters were not yet needed for everyone and that healthy young people should wait to see whether an omicron-specific booster might be needed. “I think when the CDC said they are recommending a third dose, they just made the PAGE 5
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SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 8-10, 2021
‘I’m dreaming of a flight this Christmas’ by SUNITA
SOHRABJI Ethnic Media Services
THE December holidays are traditionally the most-traveled time of year for U.S. residents. Last year, even amid a surge in COVID infections, the Transportation Security Administration reported 15 billion trips made by people travelling between 50 to 500 miles, using all forms of transportation. More travel is expected this year, including international travel, as countries around the world begin to loosen their COVID-related travel restrictions. But late last month, travel concerns emerged afresh as a new variant known as Omicron was first identified by scientists in South Africa. “Omicron is named a ‘variant of concern’ by the World Health Organization, and is potentially more contagious than previous variants,” said Dr. Dali Fan, a UC Davis Health Science Clinical Professor who also serves as a volunteer vaccinator at California Northstate University in Elk Grove, California. “Information about the Omicron variant is still emerging, but from what we do know, caution and careful monitoring are important.” The first confirmed case of the Omicron variant in the U.S. was identified at the end of November in San Francisco, in a person who recently travelled internationally. 12 states have subsequently confirmed at least one case of the Omicron variant, as of Dec. 3. President Joe Biden called the variant “a cause for concern, not a cause for panic,” and has imposed travel restrictions on people traveling into the US from foreign countries. Proof of a negative test regardless of vaccination status is required within one day of departure for all passengers travelling to the US, effective Dec. 6. Additionally, several countries have imposed or tightened their
COVID-19-related travel restrictions. India, for example, will impose further testing and surveillance on travelers from high-risk countries, including the United Kingdom, Brazil, Bangladesh, China, and Mauritius, among others. U.S. travelers will have to pay attention to restrictions by different countries. Those travelling to India will be required to be fully vaccinated. Proof of vaccination status is required prior to boarding an airplane to the United States. For U.S. citizens and Legal Permanent Residents (LPRs) who are eligible to travel but not fully vaccinated, proof of a negative COVID19 test is required one day prior to their flight to India. U.S citizens and LPRs who are fully vaccinated will need to present airlines with proof of vaccination and of a negative COVID-19 test three days before their flight. The Philippines is imposing similar restrictions: travelers who are not fully vaccinated will not be able to board a flight from the U.S. to the Philippines. Moreover, travelers will need to provide proof of a negative COVID test taken one day before traveling. China is also imposing similar restrictions, but Zhong Nanshan, an advisor to the Chinese government, told CNN the country has “no plans to take any major action in response to the Omicron variant.” The U.S. government had earlier advised people to restrict travel to Mexico unless absolutely necessary. In November, it issued a new advisory. Effective Nov. 8, all non-immigrant, non-U.S. citizen air travelers to the U.S. over the age of two are required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to the United States.
Similar to travelers to India, U.S. citizens and Legal Permanent Residents traveling to Mexico who are not fully vaccinated will need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test one day before their flight. Vaccinated travelers to the United States will need to provide either proof of vaccination or of a negative COVID-19 test three days before their flight. In this FAQ, Dr. Dali Fan provides guidance for those who choose to travel during the holiday season. EMS: Would you recommend that people reconsider plans for international travel, in light of the emerging Omicron variant? Are there countries you believe may be riskier as travel destinations? The Biden administration issued a travel ban to seven other African countries (see above). This list is fluid and will continue to evolve, but caution is advised if you plan to travel there. Keep in mind the Delta variant remains the biggest threat to public health, so vaccination and other safety precautions like masking are best. International arrivals to the United States must get a COVID19 viral test (regardless of vaccination status) within one day of travel by air back into the United States. You must show your negative result to the airline before you board your flight. If you booked an itinerary from a US state or territory to another US state or territory and the itinerary has you taking a connecting flight through a foreign country, you do not need to be tested. An example of this situation is an itinerary booked between the Northern Mariana Islands (a US territory) and the US mainland via Japan. If you travel within the US between states and territories, the CDC has recommendations (see PAGE 8
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Marcos disqualification petitions ‘nuisance cases...
PAGE 1 Marcos’ supporters in Cebu City on November 18 held a protest rally in front of the Comelec Central Visayas office to denounce the petitions seeking the cancellation of his CoC. They claimed that they were representing various groups opposed to the “dirty tactics being utilized by some desperate camps who are afraid that a Marcos presidency will bring out the true potential of the nation.” The group, whose members
identified themselves as “Cebuanos Kontra DQ,” gathered at Plaza Independencia then marched to the Comelec office, where they held a small program and lit red candles to symbolize their resentment. “The purpose of this gathering is to voice our resistance to the disqualification cases being lodged against BBM (Bongbong Marcos),” said former Cebu City Councilor Erik Espina. “We also wanted a fair hearing by the Comelec and not settle
this by technicality. The voice of the sovereign people must not be muted and thwarted,” he said. Espina voiced hope that their protest will be replicated in other provinces and cities. A petition for the cancellation of Marcos’ CoC was initially filed on November 2 by the group Kapatid. Another petition was also filed on November 8, which was followed by a third one from former Bayan Muna partylist representative Satur Ocampo. ■
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4 december 8-10, 2021 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL
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Pacquiao says he won’t stop giving relief...
PAGE 1 pagtulong mula pa noon,” he added. Pacquiao said he only wants to help the public, saying that he cannot bring his money to the grave.
“Itago niyo ang pera niyo, kahit bilyon-bilyon pa yan, kahit trillion pa, pag namatay ka di mo naman madadala ‘yan. Kung tumulong ka sa kapwa, napakibabangan mo, napakinabangan pa ng iba.
Nakatulong ka sa kapwa,” Pacquiao said. “Ngayon kung naiinggit sila, gawin din nila. Lalung-lalo na yung mga nagnanakaw sa gobyerno, ibigay nila yung pera sa taumbayan, ” he added. n
Is it time to change the definition of...
SFIO, NeuroSky sign $15-M partnership to bring biotech wearables to global markets STARFLEET Innotech, Inc. (Smokefree Innotec, Inc.) and biotech company NeuroSky signed an agreement earlier this month, awarding the asset management company distribution rights of NeuroSky’s state-of-the-art health and wellness monitoring devices. As part of SFIO’s broad campaign to build synergies across their core investment areas, the company plans to sell an initial batch of at least 100,000 wearables through partners in health, construction, education, and other related industries. NeuroSky is a Silicon Valleybased, private biotech company that specializes in electronic wearables such as watches, wrist bands, and headsets. Depending on the device, features include vital sign monitoring, symptom tracking for conditions such as viral infections, and brainwave tracking to help enhance one’s learning abilities. The agreement grants SFIO exclusive rights to sell NeuroSky products in New Zealand
and the United Arab Emirates. SFIO also has non-exclusive distribution rights in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the United States, and other countries yet to be determined. Tapping their partners across health, construction, education, and similar industries, SFIO intends to position these wearables as a quantitative way to ensure community health in a post-pandemic world, focusing on the communities that have proven to be most vulnerable to communicable diseases. As an initial project, SFIO will be rolling out these devices to retirement villages, where residents will be able to both monitor their wellbeing and automatically alert medical staff and loved ones with SOS notifications in case of health emergencies picked up by the wearables. Educators and researchers will also benefit from NeuroSky’s brainwave monitoring technologies. While initially designed to facilitate more data-driven meditation practices, these head-mounted
wearables have scientifically proven use cases in improving performance in the classroom as well. For the first 18 months, SFIO aims to sell at least 100,000 units of NeuroSky’s wearables, including their flagship BioSense HR watch. SFIO expects this venture to generate $10 to $15 million in revenue. In addition to selling to enterprise partners, SFIO will also be making these devices available to interested buyers through e-commerce platforms like Amazon, and other commercial channels via sub-distributors. Beyond distribution, SFIO has larger plans to launch its own brand of health tracking wearables, with their in-house software development teams working alongside NeuroSky’s product designers and engineers. These new products will be manufactured by NeuroSky and will fall under a new “white label” brand currently being developed by SFIO. (Advertising Supplement)
PAGE 2 statement that this is a threedose vaccine series,” Offit told KHN. “And, frankly, I think it’s going to throw a wrench into mandates.” Yet to be determined is whether restaurants or other places of business will look more closely at vaccine cards for the booster. Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, said it’s too early to say. “For now, businesses should stay focused on current guidelines,” he said. Dr. Marc Siegel, an associate professor of medicine at the George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences, said the question of whether you are fully vaccinated with just two doses or need a booster is a question of semantics. Covid immunity level is the more important issue. Siegel said he thinks more suitable terminology would be to call someone “appropriately” or “adequately” vaccinated against covid rather than “fully” vaccinated, since it’s possible that more boosters could be needed in the future — making “full vaccination” a moving target. But, as with so many aspects of the pandemic, ambiguity prevails — both in federal guidance on the definition of “fully vaccinated” and in entrance policies, which vary by state, school and business. Right now, businesses don’t appear to be checking for boosters, but that could change. So, it may be wise to first check the requirements — lest patrons present a twoshot vaccine passport, only to be turned away as inadequately protected. (Victoria Knight/ Kaiser Health News) This story was produced by KHN (Kaiser Health News), a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Togeth-
er with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Fam-
ily Foundation). KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation. n
6 DECEMBER 8-10, 2021 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL
OPINION
Corruption and the pandemic
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FEATURES
A RECENT forum highlighted how corruption is exacerbating the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The problem has also been tackled by the World Justice Project. In a report earlier this year, the WPJ observed that the rapid mobilization of massive resources to respond to the public health crisis, combined with the suspension of corruption prevention and enforcement mechanisms during an emergency, have opened vast opportunities for graft. Apart from eroding public trust in the government – as we are now seeing amid the multibillion-peso Pharmally Pharmaceutical scandal – corruption leads to waste of supplies and resources and compromises the pandemic response, the WPJ pointed out. It stressed that in the pandemic response, speed need not come at the expense of public accountability. The WPJ suggests that easing public procurement mechanisms must be limited to what is necessary to meet immediate needs. Procurements must always be subject to official audit and vetting of suppliers for competence and potential conflict of interest. To promote transparency in pandemic procurements, the WPJ recommends that all government contracts forged under special emergency procedures should be published for open scrutiny. In the Philippines, people have faced the spectacle of suppliers preferring to languish in the
overcrowded Pasay City jail rather than submit official records of their pandemic supply deliveries to the government. Similar approaches should be applied to the distribution of pandemic emergency stimulus packages and aid programs for households and businesses, according to the WPJ. Best practices and guidance in this area have been laid out by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, based on standards set in the UN Convention Against Corruption. From the start of the pandemic last year, a Europol bulletin had already warned about the risks of fraud, cybercrime, criminal profiteering and money laundering as countries scramble to source badly needed medical supplies. Corruption, however, need not be inevitable, according to the WPJ; it is possible to develop strong integrity cultures as well as implement global norms against corruption in the course of the long-term pandemic recovery. (Philstar.com)
Editorial
Philstar.com photo
Omicron variant: mRNA vaccine technology has the edge
Babe’s Eye View BABE ROMUALDEZ UNDOUBTEDLY, the new coronavirus Omicron variant has caused widespread concern because it shows multiple mutations, with early evidence indicating that it may have increased transmissibility compared to the Delta variant. But there is still a lot to be scientifically discovered and known about this new variant, and scientists here in the United States are working 24/7 to get the right answers. We were told by the White House that we should know within the next 10 days the results regarding its virality, and whether it can evade vaccines and cause severe illness. The World Health Organization has confirmed Omicron infections in 23 countries that include the United States, with border closures once again imposed to prevent community transmission. But as President Biden had stressed, this should not be a cause for panic. While it’s possible that Omicron may have “immune escape” potential or the capacity to evade immunity from prior infection – scientists believe vaccines still continue to provide “a good degree of protection” and will at least slow down the spread of the variant and prevent severe illness. According to Professor Salim Abdool Karim, a South African epidemiologist who wrote the article “Omicron SARS-CoV-2
variant: a new chapter in the COVID-19 pandemic” published in The Lancet, while there is very early evidence of increased transmissibility and reinfection among those who have been vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19, people should not “make too much of the early data.” In our regular interactions with Moderna and Pfizer – both of which have developed COVID-19 vaccines using the mRNA (messenger RNA) technology – it is apparent that both companies have been very proactive, reviewing and assessing the efficacy of their vaccines and developing booster shots that would target mutations from new variants such as Omicron. There is no question that the COVID-19 pandemic has shown the superiority of mRNA technology through the COVID-19 vaccines that have proven to be the most effective, providing very high levels of protection. Scientists such as Yale University professor of immunology, epidemiology and molecular, cellular and developmental biology Akiko Iwasaki point to the relative ease and speed with which companies can develop “very, very good vaccines” using mRNA technology as it only took Moderna several weeks to develop its COVID-19 vaccine and make it ready for testing and clinical trials, compared to traditional approaches that take so much longer for vaccines to be developed. The beauty of mRNA technology, many scientists all over the world agree, is that the
time needed to create boosters that would target specific variants is shortened, because existing vaccines can be tweaked or adjusted to produce variantspecific shots within several weeks. It’s pretty much like upgrading cellphones or smart gadgets though software downloads to make them responsive to the changing needs of users. Many agree – mRNA technology is the solution to lead the world out of this pandemic. BioNTech CEO Ugur Sahin, whose company developed the world’s first COVID-19 vaccine in partnership with Pfizer, said they are working on an upgraded version of their current vaccine quickly in response to Omicron, and is confident that people will still have substantial protection against severe disease caused by the new variant. “The only thing that worries me at the moment is the fact that there are people who have not been vaccinated at all,” Sahin said. Pfizer and BioNTech have assured that actions have been taken “months ago to be able to adapt the mRNA vaccine within six weeks and ship initial batches within 100 days in the event of an escape variant.” Moderna, on the other hand, said their booster shot will be ready by March next year. Aside from an Omicron-specific booster candidate, the company is also working on “multivalent” booster candidates to anticipate mutations from the Omicron variant as well as the Beta and Delta strains. The
Unsplash.com photo by Spencer Davis
company is also reviewing the efficacy of 100 micrograms of vaccine as a booster for the Omicron variant as opposed to the current booster of 50 micrograms. According to the company, they can advance the booster candidates to clinical testing within 60 to 90 days. The real good news is coming from Pfizer. The company submitted its application this month to the FDA to authorize their pill, Paxlovid, for emergency use. The company says the pill reduces serious illness, hospitalization and death by 89 percent. Pfizer is very confident that this oral drug can work for all known mutations including Omicron, and is continuously
working on other drugs just in case there is resistance to the drug down the line. Psychologically for all of us, this is absolutely good news. What is important, however, is that this new variant still underscores the need for vaccination to protect people from severe illness and even death, and at the same time, lessen the chances of the coronavirus to spread and mutate into more virulent and threatening variants. The ramping up of our vaccination rollout in the Philippines, registering one of the highest single-day jabs worldwide with over 2.7 million people vaccinated last Nov. 29, is wonderful news, too.
The best tool to fight COVID19 is still the vaccines, and those who have been vaccinated and had their booster shots are better poised to get back to life that is as close to “normal” as we can get prior to the pandemic. Those who continue to refuse getting vaccinated are practically playing Russian roulette – endangering other people’s lives, including themselves. (Philstar.com) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
*** Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com
Educated by the voters
No Free Lunch CIELITO F. HABITO I ALWAYS feel discomfort when I hear talk about the need for “voter education,” usually in the context of lamenting the nature of the candidates who tend to get the strongest support from the Filipino voting public. We hear terms like “bobotante” and “tangang masa” in such conversations, especially now as we again prepare to choose new leaders in 2022. There’s no denying that we’ve seen elected into office too many people with reputations for vote buying, thievery, plunder, immorality, and even murder; show business or sports personalities and other public celebrities with no known qualifications for
governance; and even returning officials with past records of incompetence and nonperformance. A quote attributed to former Singapore leader Lee Kuan Yew made the rounds in social media years ago, where he supposedly called Filipinos “stupid” for perennially voting bad leaders into office. Calls for “voter education” strike me as presumptuous, even bordering on arrogance. To me, the Filipinos’ supposed lack of political maturity reflects a failure in the system that ultimately points the finger back at society’s economic and/or intellectual elite. I’m not the first to point out that those who want voters to be “educated” could well be the ones needing to be educated by those they want “educated.” What has been missing perhaps is for the country’s elite
and even middle class to listen more and engage more with the so-called “bobotante,” whom we have collectively failed and neglected. After all, how they cast their votes would have a legitimate motivation behind it. For some, it is persistent poverty that leads them to keep looking for leaders who can promise immediate relief—including wads of cash and promises of more to come. That is one of the strong attractions of the candidate with whom many seem to have fallen for the yarn that once elected, he will give away the immense riches their family amassed while in power. It is said that many in our elite actually prefer to perpetuate widespread poverty in our midst, appalling as that may sound, because it is through the patronage relationships it fosters by
which they maintain their grip on power. For thinking voters with a longer perspective, the motivation could be a long-simmering dissatisfaction with the existing order, and anyone who sounds like he/she can deliver drastic change would attract their support. Seeing little improvement in their lives across various presidencies, it’s natural for common people to embrace leaders who break out of the familiar mold. But this one is not just about poor and less educated voters wanting to change the power balance in our society, in the hope of better lives for themselves. Let’s not forget that the current leader many of us love to hate found his strongest support base from the ABC classes of voters and not the bottom ones, seduced by the promise of change, not knowing that
it was going to happen in the wrong direction. “What we see during elections,” a writer once put it, “is an accumulation of the collective resentment, frustration, and even anger of many Filipinos from past years or even decades.” It stems from the failure of society’s political and economic elite to sufficiently uplift the lives of the wide majority left farther behind as they uplifted their own. And as has now emerged, our greatest failure could have well been in education in general, and with all the cross-country evidence at hand, there is no denying this. The fact that our country has found itself at the bottom of the list of countries ranked in the Programme for International Student Assessment—worst in reading and second to worst (to the Dominican
Republic) in math and science— speaks for itself. Our education failure has been a huge impediment to achieving a progressive and inclusive economy and building a strong nation. Unless we change this fast, we are condemned to more of the same for time to come. All told, the persistent call to “educate” voters is probably misplaced. Maybe we need to be “educated” by them first, to move us all to take a direct role in shaping a better future for the nation, and not count on one leader to do it. (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.
*** cielito.habito@gmail.com
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Marcos paid taxes, documents show by JoMaR
Canlas ManilaTimes.net
DOSES OF HOPE. Personnel from the Bureau of Customs and the Department of Health inspect the new shipment of 1,497,200 doses of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at the NAIA Terminal 1 in Parañaque City on Monday, December 6. The latest data show the Philippines has administered a total of 91,777,433 doses of coronavirus vaccine nationwide, with 38,168,603 Filipinos now fully vaccinated. PNA photo by Joey O. Razon
No omicron case detected in PH by Red
Mendoza ManilaTimes.net
NO case of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 has been detected in the Philippines, the Department of Health said on Monday, December 6. It said that out of the 629 samples tested, nearly 91 percent, or 571 samples, contained the Delta variant. The others were the Beta and Alpha variants. Meanwhile, out of the 253 passengers who arrived from South
Africa from November 15-29, 80 had been located. Four were re-tested but were found negative of the Omicron variant. Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said that of the 80 who had been located, 71 are under facility quarantine, four are on home quarantine, and five have been discharged after completing the required quarantine period. Vergeire said that studies regarding possible transmissibility of Omicron are ongoing. “Mahirap gumawa ng (It is
hard to create a) study comparing these variants with other studies existing across the globe, but still they are doing their studies and in one to two weeks, maybe we can get more information on this,” Vergeire said during her regular briefing. Despite the threat of Omicron, the country remains under minimal risk classification, with a two-week average daily attack rate of -57 percent and an average daily attack rate of 0.67 cases per 100,000 population. n
UN names world’s best tourism village in Cebu by RalPh
edwin VillanueVa Philstar.com
MANILA — A community in Cebu was named one of the world’s “Best Tourism Villages” by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the government revealed over the weekend. In a statement, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat celebrated the recognition given by the UNWTO to Barangay Bojo in Aloguinsan town, home of the world-renowned Bojo River in Cebu. Tourism officer-in-charge Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso and Philippine Ambassador to
Spain Philippe Jones Lhuiller received the award in Madrid last Dec. 2. The Department of Tourism (DOT) said the award “recognizes the remarkable work of the local community in Bojo, through the Bojo Aloguinsan Ecotourism Association.” “A local destination being inducted into the UNWTO Best Tourism Villages Program in its pilot year is a testament to the Philippines’ commitment to sustainable tourism development from the national level down to the grassroots,” Puyat said. “The wealth of our natural resources and unmatched hospitality remains our key strength
as we strive for the reopening of the industry to international travelers anchored on the principle of safe and sustainable tourism,” she added. Barangay Bojo now joins 44 communities in 32 countries recognized by the UNWTO for the award. A Best Tourism Village is judged by its natural and cultural resources as well as its innovative and transformative actions and commitment to tourism development in line with the sustainable development goals. The UNWTO program was also launched to advance the role of tourism as a tool for rural development. n
PRESIDENTIAL aspirant Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. settled his tax dues in compliance with a 1995 court ruling, documents issued by the Supreme Court and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said. The documents, copies of which were obtained by The Manila Times, bolster the argument that there is no legal impediment to the presidential candidacy of Marcos. The standard bearer of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas is facing several petitions before the Commission on Elections seeking to cancel his certificate of candidacy. One of the petitions contend that he is not qualified to run for president because he was convicted by a Quezon City court for tax evasion after he did not file income tax returns from 1982 to 1985. Marcos brought the case before the Court of Appeals which in October 1997 cleared him of tax evasion charges, ruling that he was not given due notice of the tax assessment. The court, however, sustained Marcos’ conviction for not filing his tax returns and fined him P36,000. Marcos wanted to appeal the conviction and had asked the Supreme Court for an extension to file a petition for certiorari. He eventually withdrew the petition and opted to settle his tax liabilities which ran up to P67,137.27. An official receipt issued by the Land Bank of the Philippines with receipt number 10622824, dated Dec. 27, 2001, showed that Marcos paid the sum in full. Copies of BIR payment forms
brighter future.” Marcos said his latest visit to Cebu gave him the opportunity to meet the members and officials of the League of Municipalities during their regional planning conference in Region 7 who voiced their support for his tandem with Duterte-Carpio. He said that the “historic joining of forces of the BBM-Sara UniTeam supporters signaled the country’s triumph over the challenges brought about by the pandemic.” “Only together as a unified naFormer Senator Bongbong Marcos tion shall Filipinos be victorious ManilaTimes.net photo during and after the pandemic,” numbered 0605 and 1904 con- Marcos said in a statement on firmed that payment was made. Sunday. n In a separate document, then Supreme Court Deputy Clerk of Court and Chief of the Judicial Records Office Teresita Dimaisip sent a copy of the entry of judgment to the camp of Marcos, Court of Appeals, and the Solicitor General in connection with the former senator’s case in December 2001. “This is to certify that on Aug. 8, 2001, a resolution rendered in the above-entitled case was filed in this office...” the entry of judgment read. LACMTA will receive Dimaisip sent the copies on Nov. Proposals for PS78835 - I5, 2001. She also certified that the reso- 105 ExpressLanes Roadside lution has “become final and ex- Toll Collection System at the ecutory [on Aug. 31, 2001] and 9th Floor Receptionist Desk, is hereby recorded in the Book of Vendor/Contract Management Department, One Gateway Entries of Judgments.” On Sunday, Marcos said this will Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012. be the key to the country’s progAll Proposals must be ress after the pandemic. submitted to LACMTA, and He cited his recent trip to Cebu with Davao City Mayor Sara be filed at the reception desk, Duterte-Carpio where they were 9th floor, V/CM Department, greeted by thousands of support- or via email at bids@metro.net ers. He said that it gave him “hope on or before 2:00 p.m. Pacific that the unity being shown by the Time on Thursday, January people will usher the country to a 27, 2022. Proposals received after the above date and time may be rejected and returned unopened. Each proposal must be sealed and marked Proposal No. PS78835. Committee on the OFW Hospital (ICOH). For a copy of the Proposal/ The ICOH, he said, will be Bid specification visit our headed by the Secretary of the Solicitation Page on our Department of Labor and Em- Vendor Portal at https:// ployment and the Secretary of business.metro.net or for Health. further information email “We consider the establish- Victor Zepeda at zepedav@ ment of this specialty hospital metro.net. devoted to OFWs as a long overdue recognition of the valuable 12/1, 12/8/21 contribution of Filipino migrant CNS-3531159# workers to the economy and to ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.) the nation,” Nograles said. n
LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
Duterte orders creation of OFW Hospital by daRwin
PesCo ManilaTimes.net
PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte ordered the creation of the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) Hospital, Malacañang said on Tuesday, December 7. Acting Palace spokesman Karlo Alexei Nograles said the President signed Executive Order 154 on Tuesday directing the establishment of the OFW Hospital, as well as the Inter-Agency
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END TERRORISM. Members of the League of Parents of the Philippines and Liga Independencia Pilipinas rally outside the Supreme Court along Padre Faura St., Manila City on Tuesday, December 7. The groups have been supporting the thrust of the government to end the 52-year insurgency in the country with the aid of the Anti-Terrorism Act. PNA photo by Joey O. Razon
‘I’m dreaming of a flight this... PAGE 3 the answer of question 2). In general, you are recommended to test for COVID-19 if you are not fully vaccinated. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/testinginternational-air-travelers.html Always follow the CDC’s international travel guidelines: Do not travel internationally until you are fully vaccinated. Check your destination’s COVID-19 situation and travel requirements before traveling, because guidance may change. Countries may have their own entry and exit requirements. When you travel to the United States by air, you are required to show a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before you board your flight. The timing of this test depends on your vaccination status and age. Wearing a well-fitting mask over your nose and mouth is required in indoor areas of public transportation (including airplanes) traveling into, within, or out of the United States and indoors in U.S. transportation hubs (including airports). https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel-during-covid19.html Travelers can expect states to lead their own efforts as well. For example, California is expanding COVID-19 testing at international airports and prioritizing arrivals from affected countries and monitoring for the variant’s presence. EMS: What about domestic travel? Are some modes safer than others? The CDC’s domestic travel guidance mostly aligns with their international guidelines: wait to travel
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until you get vaccinated, check the COVID-19 situation of your destination, wear a mask and cancel plans if you become sick or are exposed to COVID-19. If you are not fully vaccinated and must travel, get tested both before and after your trip (see the end of this document for details or visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travelduring-covid19.html Generally speaking, passengers are at low risk of contracting the novel coronavirus while flying, but the COVID-19 virus can—and has—spread on planes with low rate. https://www.advisory.com/ daily-briefing/2020/09/22/covidflights# Obviously, driving yourself is the safest. EMS: How would you recommend people keep themselves safe while aboard a plane, train, or cruise ship, and in hotels or rental homes? What about safety measures while inside a private home? In general, people should use preventive measures, including hand hygiene, physical distancing, and wearing face masks to keep themselves safe while travel. The same principles apply in other indoor settings as well, especially when you are with people you are not normally around. Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is required in indoor areas of public transportation (including on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and while indoors at U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations. Travelers are not required to wear a mask in outdoor areas of a conveyance (like on open deck areas of a ferry or the uncovered
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top deck of a bus). The key is still: get fully vaccinated. EMS: Would you recommend getting a booster before travelling? How long before travelling to get the optimal protection? Yes, a booster is recommended to give yourself boosted protection. The COVID-19 neutralizing antibody levels started to rise within a few days of the booster shot. Schedule your booster shot two weeks before you are set to travel – this will give the booster time to be most effective. Get your booster if it has been at least six months since your second dose of Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, or two months after the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. https://www. deseret.com/platform/amp/coronavirus/2021/11/23/22798557/covid-booster-shots-how-long-doesit-take-to-work EMS: Finally, should people quarantine or get tested for COVID once they have returned? If you are fully vaccinated and suspect you have been exposed a possible COVID-19 case during travel, upon return, the CDC recommends you get tested 5-7 days after close contact. If you are not fully vaccinated: • Self-quarantine and get tested after travel. • Get tested with a viral test 3-5 days after returning from travel. • Stay home and self-quarantine for a full 7 days after travel, even if you test negative at 3-5 days. • If you don’t get tested, stay home and self-quarantine for 10 days after travel. • If Your Test is Positive • Isolate yourself to protect others from getting infected. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated-guidance.html n
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The Asian Journal
mdwk The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - December 8, 2021
Wednesday DECEMbEr 8, 2021
mAGAZINE
Fifth directs the Gonzaga sisters in ‘ExorSis’ By leAh
C. sAlterio
Philstar.com
THE friendship of young film director Fifth Solomon and TV host-comediennesocial media personality Alex Gonzaga was what gave rise to the horror-comedy film project, “ExorSis,” Viva Films’ official entry to this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). The film was hatched while Fifth and Alex were on vacation in New York in November 2019, a few months before entertainment activities were halted because of the pandemic.
Fifth became known all over the country when he joined Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) All-In or Season 5 in 2014. It will be remembered that Fifth was the “Brad Kulit ng Pasay” in PBB, where he became one of the housemates with his twin brother, Fourth, the “Brad Bait ng Pasay.” Roberto “Bobby” Pagotan Solomon is literally the Fifth among a brood of seven children. Inside the PBB house, Fifth developed his long-standing friendship with Alex, who was then one of the house guests. Fifth’s older sister, GMA 7 talent Chariz Solomon,
Fifth Solomon (center) with celebrity sisters Toni and Alex Gonzaga
asianjournalpublications
referred to Fifth as the family’s “director, writer, actor and singer,” in one post on social media to greet him on his birthday two years ago. Meanwhile, Chariz referred to Fourth as the “CEO, actor, chef, singer, painter, Michael Jackson.” She said she is always proud to be called their sister. At the start of the pandemic, Fifth worked on the script of “ExorSis.” “Nakakulong lang,” he offered. “Wala akong inspiration. Apat na walls lang. Nakaka-baliw. So gumawa na lang ako ng horror. Kami ni Alex, pareho kami ng humor, so nagbabatuhan lang kami ng idea. Napadali ang proseso.” Through the years that they’ve known each other, Fifth and Alex traveled together far and wide. From Baguio City, they went to Thailand, Taiwan and all the way to New York in 2019, when ExorSis was conceptualized. Alex suggested that Fifth come up with a script for a new film project with the sisters. Fifth made his directorial debut back in 2015 in the light romance, “Nakalimutan Ko Nang Kalimutan Ka,” which also topbilled Alex with Vin Abrenica. Recently, Fifth worked at the helm of the Diego Loyzaga-Barbie Imperial romantic drama, Dulo. In “ExorSis,” Fifth acknowledged Alex helped in “collaborating and Continued on Page 10 Philstar.com photo
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How Donny prepared for his role as color blind By Alex
BrosAs Inquirer.net
TO better portray a color blind artist in his first movie, “Love Is Color Blind,” young actor Donny Pangilinan had to go through a particular process. “In terms of preparations, I [actually] met [with] a color blind artist,” Pangilinan said during the online press conference for the movie, last Thursday, Dec. 2. “We went through a whole interview. We asked him about his feelings, how did he find out (about his being color blind). Ano ang nuances na ginagawa niya, ano ang mga struggles (What are his nuanes and what are his struggles),” he explained. “You know, all the questions that needed to be asked so that I could slowly get into the character. It was a whole process.” Even the movie’s director, John Leo Garcia, made sure to put Pangilinan in the zone. “Before the scenes, nilalagay talaga niya ako sa puwesto ni Ino na ganito ka, ganito ang nararamdaman mo, tanggalin mo si Donny,” Pangilinan shared. (Before the scenes, he puts me in the position of [the character], he says, “You’re like this, this is how you feel, remove Donny.”) “Kasi (Because) many times our characters are very different talaga (really), eh, like what we’re going through. I have to find a way to relate to Ino even if I was born to the same struggles which was hard and challenging but in the end worth it naman (also),” he added.
Donny Pangilinan
The film tells the story of Cara (Belle Mariano), a young student who fell secretly in love with her best friend Ino (Donny). “Sobrang hardworking niya (She’s so hardworking),” Pangilinan said of her leading lady. “Gagawin niya lahat para lang makuha ang scene or ‘yung kailangan ng role niya. (She will do everything to get the scene or what is needed in her role). Nakita ko talaga na (I really saw that) there’s nothing that will stop her from learning and showing what is to be shown,” he said of Mariano. Pangilinan admitted that there’s pressure on him for his first movie, but more than that,
Photo from Instagram/@donny
he is grateful. “I’ll never get tired of saying na sobrang (we are really) grateful lang kami to be given that trust. More than anything, we’re grateful to be with this cast and crew, everyone behind the scene, direk, everyone talaga (really). It’s been a journey, a rollercoaster ride,” he said. “Marami din kaming pinagdaanan, good and bad, but at the end of the day, tama ‘yung sinabi ni Belle, meron kaming movie and we’re so blessed.” (We also went through so much, good and bad, but at the end of the day, what Belle said is right, we got a movie and we are so blessed.)
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - December 8, 2021
Gawad Kalinga USA to celebrate hope through music with ‘riSING Together’ concert By eric
Sayno
THE impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is felt all over the world, but the challenges that come with it are even more daunting for those who belong to the poorest sectors of the community. In the Philippines, a weakened economy and the fear of contracting a viral disease add to the burden of the less fortunate, who have already been struggling to make ends meet each day. Now, more than ever, the need to come together in the spirit of “bayanihan” is crucial to support poverty-stricken Filipinos. Gawad Kalinga (GK) USA will lead the charge through riSING Together, a virtual celebration of hope through music, in partnership with world-class Filipino talents who are lending their voices to inspire, encourage, and move people during this most precious season of giving. The event is headlined by National Artist for Music
Maestro Ryan Cayabyab together with the Ryan Cayabyab Singers. Sharing the stage are seasoned multihyphenate performer Gary Valenciano, online sensation and Filipino-American artist AJ Rafael, and singer-songwriter Kiana Valenciano. “I have been in close coordination with GK since the first year of inception of the Ryan Cayabyab Singers as a powerhouse singing group and it has been some years since we did a project with GK. This is a most opportune time to collaborate again with an organization I believe in,” shares Mr. Cayabyab, fondly known as Mr. C. “I look forward to working with three exciting artists in Gary V, Kiana, and AJ, and I can’t wait to showcase the Filipino’s excellence in music creativity and artistry!” AJ chimes in, “When GK approached me to ask if I can be a part of the concert, it was automatic.” “If there is any opportunity to help or do a concert, as long as I’m free, I’ll be there. That
is the impact that GK has on me. I’m excited to be part of this and working with Mr. Ryan Cayabyab. It still doesn’t feel real – I wouldn’t believe it until I watch him singing along to one of my songs on video,” adds the popular YouTube artist. riSING Together is presented by Seafood City and The Filipino School, and sponsored by MVMi, Pray. com, Shining Light Foundation, Tagline 360, Skills Simplified, Assistantly.com, Pinoy Monthly, and Asian Journal. The event is powered by VEAP (Virtual Events and Activations Platform), and will be streamed online on December 11, 4 PM PST/6 PM CST/ 7 PM EST in the US, and on December 12, 8 AM in the Philippines. Registration is free, but donations towards GK’s various efforts to help poor and vulnerable families are most welcome. Be part of GK USA’s riSING Together concert and spread love and hope through the power of song. Please visit www.gk-usa.org to register for the event.
Fifth directs the Gonzaga...
From Page 9 cooperating” in some of the comic scenes in the film. He finds it easier to direct a film when he also pens the story. “Alex and I started brainstorming on movie concepts and scripts at that time,” the young director shares. “Mahilig kasi akong mag-kwento sa kanya. “Since kailangan ko din ng pera, gumawa ako ng script. Comedy ang original script, but when the pandemic came, mas madaling gawin ang horror. Konti lang ang tao sa mga eksena at konti lang ang kailangang lugar.” Although Toni and Alex supply the comedy part, the
horror, drama and the rest of the aspects of “ExorSis” are credited to its megman. “Ang movie, ‘pag pinanood mo siya, hindi mo mararamdaman that it was shot during the pandemic,” Fifth points out. “Ang mga cast, ang taas ng mga bato nila at atake sa mga eksena. Super happy ako na nakagawa ako ng ganitong movie.” ExorSis is the first production of Toni’s TinCan Productions for Viva Films. The outfit carries the nickname of Toni, “Tin,” or how people close to her call her, attached to a positive word. “TinCan do it or TinCan also venture into something
positive,” Toni explains. “Paul suggested that so I can grow as an artist. So that I also know what goes behind the scene and what goes behind the production. I’m also part of the producer of the movie.” Toni started to have a different admiration for production people once she also tried her hand at bankrolling a film project. “Mas na-realize ko, ang kabuuan ng pelikula, hindi lang sa artista. Hanggang cameramen, utility, gaffer, lighting, lahat importante ang trabaho nila. Mas nagkaroon ako ng deeper love, appreciation at respect sa film set when I also started to produce.”
Get into the holiday spirit with a Pasko popup celebration in West Covina on Dec. 11 THIS Saturday, Dec. 11, celebrate the Filipino spirit of Christmas at Holiday Fest: Pasko popup celebration in West Covina, California hosted by Adobers, a Filipino tech startup highlighting Filipino businesses. Adobers, based in the San Gabriel Valley, is operating an online directory dedicated to connect Filipino-owned businesses to the community and new markets. Founders Jv Libunao and Demeven Quirino started the platform in the midst of the pandemic when businesses were shut down and owners resorted to social media to continue their operations. While social media groups are a good place for businesses to advertise DIY style, it is not searchable as it is not designed to be a directory and selling platform, they said. Now, what started out as a digital platform to represent small businesses has turned into a mission to foster cultural representation starting in Southern California and expanding to the rest of the US. Adobers is bringing Filipino craftsmanship through food, products, services and professionals together via an innovation of how Filipinos will do business, connect, learn and experience one of a kind activities to share the Filipino culture and talent with the rest of the U.S. The Holiday Fest is the second event hosted
by Adobers riding off the success of the FAHM Mania to celebrate Filipino American History Month last October 23, 2021, which was attended by over 1,000 guests. “Plaza West Covina is in the heart of these cities which makes it a great venue to celebrate Pasko, the Filipino way,” the founders said. “Holiday Fest is a milestone in Filipino business as there aren’t a lot of Filipino events held inside a mall here in the U.S. We are proud to say that Holiday Fest is one of the first ones. We hope that it paves the way for other organizers to change the way Filipino events are done.” The Holiday Fest has a full roster of vendors selling food and other products, which would make for great Christmas gifts. Aside from in-
person vendors, there will be a lineup of virtual businesses from Northern California and Colorado who are all part of the Adobers.net directory. “It’s not a Filipino celebration without food and there will be many food options from traditional to fusion. Lastly, if there is food, there should be singing and we will be serenaded and carolled by Wish Bus USA performers, a YouTube Sensation and by upcoming FilAm artists Nadia Younes, Bella Loyola and Stephen Obana,” the founders said. The Holiday Fest will be held on Dec 11, 2021 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Plaza West Covina (112 Plaza Dr. West Covina, CA 91790). For more information, please visit: https://www.adobers.net/ holidayfest/.
Pangasinan Brotherhood-USA to hold Christmas celebration on Dec. 11 at Kusina Filipina Cerritos CERRITOS, CA – Pangasinan Brotherhood-USA, a 501 C-3, public benefit, non-profit organization, will celebrate Christmas and 43rd foundation anniversary on December 11 at 7:30 p.m. at Kusina Filipina (formerly Josephine’s) on 183rd Street in this city. This was announced by its board chairman Dan E. Nino and president Neil M. Estrada after a unanimous vote by its board of directors. This came about after almost two years of lockdown that derailed PB-USA’s activities including a formal induction of its new board of directors and executive officers, fund-raising events, service projects and search for Miss Pangasinan USA. Aside from Nino and Estrada, the other board of directors include Jacqueline M. Ferrer (vice chairman), Lina Cabal (board secretary) Roger Cabal, Nieves Coquia, Ping Coquia, Rhenee M. Ferrer, Dean Mandapat, Elisa Urbano and Rosemarie de Vera-Javier. During a recent board meeting, Mr. Nino stated said, “Although we are cautious and most of us are already vaccinated including booster shots, we should not be held hostage by this pandemic in all our lives.” Executive officers include: Sue Ann E. Tumakay (executive vice president); vice presidents Perlita Rasing (1st District); Leoncio D. Dumlao (2nd
District); Marc Posadas (3rd District); Maritess O. Bautista (4th District); Jason Agcaoile (5th District); and Ray Rodrigo (6th District); Kate Estrada (executive secretary); Julie M. Estrada (assistant secretary); Danny P. Tejada (treasurer); King C. Disimulacion (auditor); Giovanni Javier, PRO; Noemi V. Dumlao (community relations officer); Oscar Camacho and Jann Alexa Doctor-Bergado (business managers); Eddie C. Ferrer (comptroller); Henry Ward and Henry Estrada (marshals); Mike Mandapat (historian); and Mel G. Oxciano (legal counsel). Convenors within Pangasinan Brotherhood-USA are also included as key officers to expand wide reach of participation. They are: JR C. Araquel, coordinators for Millennials; Illen Estrada for Next Gen and Jane Coquia for Baby Boomers. To enliven the Christmas celebration, a band will provide entertainment, raffles with a giant TV screen as a major prize, group singing, exhibition dance and a solo rendition by Lyndon Apostol whose roots are from Mangatarem, Pangasinan and San Clemente, Tarlac — and many more surprises in the pipeline. An alumnus of UCLA (major in Philosophy, English and Film), Lyndon Apostol is an actor, singer, dancer, guitarist performer and teaching artist. He was nominated twice
for Best Featured Actor on Broadway World for the role of Chino from West Side Story and Minsik Lee from Comfort Women. Lydon’s singing partner is Gabrielle who has extensive experience in all types of vocal genres like pop, musical theatre, jazz and opera. She earned her undergraduate degree in Vocal Performance at Cal State University of Northridge. She now teaches voice privately in her own studio. Before the Pandemic ruined the plans and activities of Pangasinan Brotherhood-USA, it has been engaged in charitable programs like partnering with other non-profit organizations to provide financial assistance to Gabay Group in Quezon City, affordable housing through Gawad Kalinga in Pangasinan, economic empowerment of Pangasinan producers and manufacturers, scholarship programs for qualified college-bound Pangasinan students, disaster relief assistance, self-improvement and wellness seminars, among others. Donation is $40. For further details, interested parties may call Neil M. Estrada at 562-301-9972, Dan E. Nino at 562-508-8099, Jackie M. Ferrer at 714-757-3502 or Rhene M. Ferrer at 714-761-1597. You may also surf PBUSA1. COM. (Contributed by Dan E. Nino / denino1951@gmail. com)
Robi gives advice to youth voters By Jan
Milo Severo Philstar.com
KAPAMILYA host Robi Domingo gave an advice to youth voters to be a part of the 2022 elections for the country’s
Robi Domingo
sake. In an interview with the media during his new endorsement of Flash Express Philippines, Philstar.com asked Robi for advice to youth voters. “Makialam at makibahagi.
Photo from Instagram/@iamrobidomingo
Yung information naman in a flash makikita mo yan sa internet e. But you have to know the difference between news and fake news. You have [to] verify information,” Robi told Philstar.com. He also advised voters to choose a candidate who will really do their campaign promises. “Hanapin na yung partner niyo and magdecide kung sino nga ba ang pwedeng magdeliver ng pinakamagandang promises nila para sa’yo,” he said. The “Pinoy Big Brother” host also hoped that his mother network ABS-CBN will come back next year. “Makabalik ang ABSCBN. Yung mga boss nasa loob ng Dolphy Theater with the ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra saying ‘Welcome back, Kapamilya.’ I’m gonna fast forward to that moment in a flash kung kaya and it will only happen if we become responsible sa mga desisyon natin including voting for the right one,” he said.
How’s the housing market? Ask the Realtor
JAson AgcAoili ENDING the month of November 2021, the Southern California housing market continued to appreciate in comparison to the prior year (Nov 2020) for single-family homes. Los Angeles County’s median sales price increased 10% to $880,000 and an average sales price of $1,305,876 (13%) for singlefamily homes. Orange County’s median sales price increased 22% to $1,125,000 and an average sales price of $$1,482,913 (21%). Riverside County’s median sales price increased 19.2% to $565,990 and an average sales price of $656,330 (18%). San Bernardino County’s median sales price increased 17% to $475,000 and an average sales price of $527,921 (16%). Average Days On Market (DOM). The average days on market continued to be strong. Homes for sale in LA County were on the market for an average of 23 days. Orange County had an average of 19 DOM, Riverside County had an average of 24 DOM, and San Bernardino County had an average of 25 DOM. Is the market slowing down or going up? Based on the data from the past 12 months, the market continues to be going strong. Although the data shows that the overall market continues to increase, keep in mind that
real estate is hyperlocal, and demand depends on your local area market, the local zip code, and neighborhood. The main factors currently driving up real estate prices in Southern California are: 1) continued shortage of homes for sale, and 2) low finance rates. Is it still a good time to buy or sell? Yes, both. It’s a good time to buy because of low mortgage rates. If you are currently renting but you can purchase a home and have a similar monthly debt payment, then for most people it would make sense to purchase. If you’re currently a homeowner and your home’s value has increased, then it’s a good time to sell and reinvest the profit for a larger primary residence, real estate income property, other investments, downsize and pocket the net profit, or retire. Location, location, location. Why is location so important? The comment I hear the most is “I can buy a home outside of California that’s less expensive.” That is true to a certain degree. But also realize that the cost of any product, and especially real estate, is based on market demand. We have in California what we’ve termed locally the “weather tax.” The closer you live to the coastal areas with the most ideal weather all year round, expect to pay the higher cost of real estate and the higher cost of living. Additionally, California has the largest economy in the U.S. made up of a diverse and broad range of industries providing employment and business opportunities. There are areas within the state of California with homes priced like what you find out of
state, however, the question to ask yourself is — do you really want to live and work there? What’s the trade-off? You can buy an inexpensive home in the Midwest, the Southwest, or even within California’s High Desert, Central Valley, and rural areas, however, if doesn’t meet your needs for your career, business, your children’s schools, or personal lifestyle, then an inexpensive priced home can be costly in terms of loss in opportunities for you and your family. What is your goal? Whether you’re planning to buy or sell your home, always ask yourself — what is your goal? Do you want to invest in real estate for additional income and long-term wealth? 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 want 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 as an investor, or as a homeowner. (*Figures are based on CRMLS data, as of Dec 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, and Beach Cities areas. | Member - California Association of Realtors and the South Bay Association of Realtors (Advertising Supplement)
Simbang Gabi masses slated from Dec. 15 to 23
IN the Catholic Christendom, it’s that time of the year again to express the rich Filipino tradition of attending a nine-day novena of masses at dawn known as Simbang Gabi or Misa de Gallo (Spanish Mass of the Rooster) because Philippine masses are held at 4 a.m. from Dec. 15 to Dec. 23. In the U.S., it usually starts at 5 a.m. or 7
p.m. depending on the schedule of the parish. The tradition was introduced by the Spanish friars stationed in the Philippines to allow farmers to hear mass before going to the fields early in the morning. It is also the preparation for Christmas and commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Continued on Page 12
community 11 Grounds for annulling a marriage The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - December 8, 2021
Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes MOST couples that want out of a marriage in California usually file for Divorce. There are circumstances though that allow a couple to have their marriage “voided” rather than “dissolved.” There is a big difference between the two concepts. With a voided marriage, it restores the couple to status of unmarried person as if they have never been married before. In a divorce, the couple would always be regarded to as married during the period of the marriage. Unlike Divorce which can be obtained regardless of the reason. Voiding a marriage may only be obtained based on certain grounds. It is void in cases of incest and bigamy. It is voidable in cases of minority, Unsound Mind, Fraud, Force, or Physical Incapacity. Marriages between parents, children, ancestors and descendants, brothers and sisters, half brothers and sisters, uncles and nieces, and aunts and nephews are incestuous and are void from the beginning. So are bigamist marriages where either party was still married to another person when they entered the marriage. Nevertheless, it is best to obtain a Nullity Judgment to clarify the legal status of the parties under these circumstances. Certain situations does not necessarily make a marriage void but makes it voidable on the parties option. One such circumstance is when the petitioner was under 18 years old when the petitioner married and the parents did not provide their consent. The Nullity petition based on this
ground has to be filed within four years after the party turns 18. The parent of the minor may also file the Petition provided it is filed prior to the minor turning 18. Another situation is a bigamist marriage where the first spouse has been absent and not known to be living for 5 years prior to the second marriage or if the party believed the spouse to be dead at the time of the second marriage. A Nullity based on this ground may be filed during the life of the other party. A marriage may be voided if either party was of unsound mind at the time of
Nullity based on fraud has to be filed within four years of discovering the fraud. Certain marriages that are entered into by force are voidable. Circumstances that meet these standards requires that the forced party’s free will to have been overcome by the spouse such as through the use of threats. These type of Nullity must be filed within four years from the date of marriage. A marriage where the spouse was found to be incapable of physically engaging in copulation may be voided. It can only be filed by the spouse that does not have the physical incapacity and must be filed within four years of the marriage. Before deciding weather a divorce is the appropriate avenue to end your marriage, parties should evaluate if a Nullity is a viable alternative and weather it serves their best interest. *** 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. Visit our website at kenreyeslaw.com.
“With a voided marriage, it restores the couple to status of unmarried person as if they have never been married before. In a divorce, the couple would always be regarded to as married during the period of the marriage.” the marriage. Unsound Mind means a person is incapable of understanding the nature of the marriage contract and the duties and responsibilities it creates which depends on the degree of mental capacity of the party. This may not be a ground if the party later on came to reason yet continued to freely cohabitate with the spouse. Fraud is another ground for voiding a marriage. The false representation or concealment must relate to a substantive matter and directly affect the purpose of the party deceived in entering the marriage. The fraud must go to the very essence of the marital relation before it is sufficient for an annulment. It is not sufficient simply to contend that your spouse turned out to be a lazy, drunken disappointment.
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - December 8, 2021
Amy gives useful tips on how to build ‘a habit of praise’ By Alex
BrosAs Inquirer.net
FOR life to be lighter, veteran TV host Amy Perez believes there is a need for people to
have a “healthy dose of gratitude.” Perez believes there should always be a moment of being thankful for life’s many gifts, as per her Instagram page, where
she shared a Bible passage (James 1:17) which says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” “Are you needing a boost of joy and strength for your day? Try adding a healthy dose of gratitude to your routine. Include a time of praise and worship as you exercise; post five things you’re thankful for on social media, your bathroom mirror, or your household white board; or share what you most appreciate from your day over dinner with someone you love,” she advised, noting that “the method doesn’t matter as much as establishing the habit — a habit of praise.” For Perez, “God’s gifts don’t need fancy packaging to qualify for gratitude” because she believes these can come in the form of “small surprises and simple pleasures.” She cited examples such as getting a hug from one’s child, a fellow driver letting you pass during commute, trying on a new shade of lipstick, or having chocolates after a meal. “A thankful heart can’t help but mine deeper and deeper for the gems that are within each new day. Likewise, a grateful mind keeps looking higher and higher, above life’s difficulties or frustrations, to the One who is above it all,” she stressed. Lastly, Perez also believes that one can be thankful even for the “worst days” as well, because she said people can trust God to see the bigger picture and has better plans for everyone.
Amy Perez Photo from Instagram/@amypcastillo
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA AT a breakfast after mass at the Holy Family Church during a school fundraiser in Glendale California one beautiful fall morning years ago, a statuesque, well groomed lady holding her breakfast tray asked my husband, my sister Olga and myself, if she could join us. We said yes of course. There weren’t enough tables and chairs in the auditorium at the time. After a few pleasantries and the frost among strangers had thawed, the woman indicated that she was from the East Coast and she was visiting her son who lived in the city. She was staying in a hotel for a few days and had checked online for the nearest church where she could attend mass. She remarked that the Glendale Holy Family Catholic Church with Spanish architecture built in the 1920’s was beautiful. The conversation around the table was light at first, meandering around innocuous, safe topics. Out of nowhere, she asked us to pray for her son. Startled at first, I asked what her son’s name was and we all must have made a mental note of it. It seems that her 36-year old son who is an engineer, with so much going for him, had a major relapse in his bid to overcome his alcoholic addiction — yet again. His poison of choice – vodka. She was in town to check him in to a rehab facility and taking a chance on a new drug that would have adverse, irreversible ramifications if there is recidivism or if he ever went back to the bottle. In short, it was a last ditch attempt to end his addiction. Over breakfast we had a glimpse of the turmoil the woman was going through in seeing a loved one going through the repeated cycles of addiction and rehabilitation, only to go through it over and over again– a seemingly hopeless struggle that many battle with these days. It is like Sisyphus of Greek mythology who was punished by the gods for chronic deceitfulness and wickedness. He was cursed for eternity to roll a rock uphill only to have fate roll it back downhill just when success at lodging it safely on top of a steep hill seemed like a sure thing. She let slip that another son had died in the last year, the reason for which, she didn’t mention. And she would have to come again and visit in December because her alcoholic son has an exgirlfriend who is pregnant and is due by then. You can’t make this stuff up. Life is just so tough that her face was etched in pain. Yet there was also a brief glimpse of hope for the baby about to be born. Grief, just like joy, has way of welling up within and spilling over. We listened to her over breakfast aware that she just wanted to ease up some of the heavy burden that was troubling her. A lot of us are like this woman. We each have problems that seem too much to bear until we reach out and
The power of prayer “We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience.” —Pierre Teilhard de Chardin ask others to pray for us, even strangers we will never ever see again. We ask others to knock and bang on the doors of heaven with a battering ram, if need be, to beg for help on our behalf. In many ways, each one of us can be a prayer warrior. Often, we come to church just to be with others who are a bit like us, searching for one another’s company in seeking God’s help in many ways, big and small. We know deep down, by ourselves, we can do nothing. Just as gravity holds the physical universe together, prayer draws the spirit universe together among kindred souls. The power of prayer is boundless among those whose faith is built on solid rock. If you can, please pray for this anonymous woman Mrs. B and her son G. Mother and son both need prayers so badly; for the son to break the bonds of addiction once and for all and for the mother or the strength and the fortitude to endure her trials and finally, for both mother and son to find the peace, serenity and just maybe, hope and joy even during a deeply personal season of darkness. And while we’re at it, we might as well decide to make time for prayer ourselves. We need to grit our teeth and cut off the extremely intrusive electronic leash that is so much a part of our lives these days. We know we are in deep trouble when we have to post the latest “selfies” on FB even while we are in the restroom. Isn’t it time we weaned ourselves from having to spend too much time tethered to our gadgets? Our obsession with our tech toys may very well be another form of addiction. Dwell in the silence for that is where God is. How can God speak to us if our ears are stuffed up, our hearts are not right and our minds are cluttered with non-essentials all the time? Modern life is much too full of inane, sometimes insane, distractions assailing all our senses during our waking hours to make time for God. Dwell in prayerful silence for that is where God is. Perhaps we can even pray for complete strangers and those in our immediate orbit who we know are in dire straits but are either too timid or too proud to ask for help. There are people who feel diminished if they ask for help. They label themselves as proudly independent. The truth is that they are poor, unfortunate fools severely afflicted with hubris. Hubris, that extreme form of pride, the same brand that brought down the fallen angels, always prevents humans from seeking help. When we pray, we need to learn how to delete specifics. God knows specifics — our blood type, our DNA, even
the number of hair on our heads. God knows what we are asking for. The how, what, why, when and where of answers to prayers will have to be his call and his alone. God’s love for us is beyond all telling. It will be between God and each one of us alone in the silence of our hearts. It will be that space and time where there is no FB, no Instagram, no Snapchat, no Twitter — none of the things that tend to make pompous asses of ourselves demanding attention and approval from others. The answer to prayers is God’s call alone. We ask for help but end our prayers in humble supplication saying as Jesus said in agony as he prayed to the Father, “ … yet not my will, but yours be done.” We are simply conduits, pipelines of the flow of good that comes from God. But there is a residual effect when we suit up and become prayer warriors. The prayers we pray build layer upon layer an intangible aura of light and goodness that soak us, permeate and envelop us. And just like in the physical universe, what goes around always comes around. The laws of cause and effect also govern the spiritual universe. It is uncanny but most of us who try our best to nurture a spiritual life even as we take care of our bodies, have that instinctive gift for detecting which among us emanate this invisible shield of energy and light. They are usually the ones with the quiet or sometimes effusive, contagious joy about them. Strangely, we tend to gravitate towards such people. After all, as humans, we are all in this together, from one generation to the next. As the Jesuit priest, Pierre Teilhard de Chardin once so astutely said of humanity: “We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience.” I have the strangest feeling that with faith and unceasing prayer, both mother and son and his new family will be just fine in the end. There is no doubt it will be a long tough slog but they won’t be alone. The woman has faith. She reaches out and asks for prayers and the ripple of powerful heartfelt prayers builds up like a tsunami wave that will burst open heaven’s door for the graces they need. Will we ever know for certain of the outcome? Perhaps not, but that is what faith does. We do not need to know. We simply trust in God’s ways. *** 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: To send feedback, email monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com
Simbang Gabi masses... From Page 11 This depth of Catholicism among the Filipino people and filial devotion to Mary, the Mother of God had reached the U.S. and elsewhere where Filipinos overseas await the birth of her Son for nine consecutive days. Sponsored by the Filipino Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Simbang Gabi 2021 begins on December 15 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels on Temple St. with His Excellency Archbishop Jose Gomez as presider. Other parish churches in the Archdiocese comprising 128 as of press time will participate in this Christmas tradition. The Archdiocese of Los Angeles comprises five pastoral regions namely: Los Angeles, San Pedro, San Gabriel, San Fernando and Santa Barbara. This year’s celebration will commemorate two landmark anniversaries among Catholics in Los Angeles. First, the 500th year anniversary of the gift of Christian faith to the Filipino people from Spanish missionaries who planted the Cross of Christ on Philippine soil during the celebration of the first Mass on Limasawa Island on March 31, 1521. “Gifted to Give” is the theme chosen by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP). After 500 years, the evangelized Filipinos are recognized and called to evangelize others wherever they are. Second, 2021 is the jubilee year celebrating 250 years of the Catholic faith in Los Angeles on the anniversary of the founding of Mission San Gabriel Archangel, the first church in what is now the Archdiocese. Simbang Gabi 2021 will be an occasion to respond to the Jubilee’s call to “raise up a new generation of missionary disciples.” “Gifted to Share the Light of Christ,” the theme of Simbang Gabi 2021, epitomizes
the call to the mission of both jubilees. The celebration is replete with a procession of parols, or Christmas lanterns, which makes the dawn masses a festive gathering of the faithful. In Los Angeles and in several hundred other dioceses and parishes all over the United States, many pastors, most not even Filipino priests themselves, have fully embraced Simbang Gabi and have in fact made it a parish-wide celebration. Diocesan bishops support and encourage the devotion. They joyfully preside at either the opening or the closing mass and mingle with the parishioners during the receptions. In this country, where Christmas has become a highly commercialized secular holiday, Simbang Gabi is a refreshing breath of fresh air which brings Jesus Christ back to the center of the Christmas season. Although Filipino Catholics are on the cusp of visibility in the American Catholic Church, this faithful community of Catholics has been grace-bearers to the Church in this country and elsewhere in the world. After 500 years of evangelization and nurturing of the Catholic faith in the Philippines, 81% of the approximately 107 million Filipinos in the Philippines are Catholics, the third biggest Catholic country in the world next to Mexico and Brazil. For further details, interested parties may contact Filipino Ministry liaison Rev Fr. Rodel Balagtas at ffrbalagtas@incaglendale.org, Simbang Gabi coordinator Myrna S. Legaspi @ 562-420-9483 or nanausa@gmail.com or Tom Lapidario at 562-347-5022 or laptom@yahoo. com. (Contributed by Dan E. Nino / denino1951@ gmail.com)
The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - December 8, 2021
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