Philippine Times of Southern Nevada: Feb 9-22, 2026 Issue

A Moment of Unity: Celebrating the Year of the Fire Horse at City Hall- The spirit of "Chinese New Year in the Desert" recently reached the heart of local government, with a vibrant celebration held inside the City of Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley's Chambers. Community leaders, cultural performers, and local officials gathered to honor the rich traditions of the Lunar New Year, highlighting the city's commitment to its diverse AAPI community. Photos courtesy of Vic Esquivel

In the Filipino-American community of Southern Nevada, we know that a true celebration is built on three things: family, food, and a healthy dose of swerte (luck). This February 19th–21st, the 15th Annual Chinese New Year in the Desert is bringing all three to the heart of the city. For the 200,000+ Filipinos in Clark County—fresh off the historic launch of the Filipino Town Las Vegas Cultural District—this festival at Downtown Container Park is the ultimate way to keep our cultural momentum burning bright.

The Main Event: A Weekend for the Whole Family

The energy peaks on Saturday, February 21st with the Las Vegas Spring Festival Parade. This isn’t just a downtown event; it’s a massive community pista.

The Parade (11:00 AM): Secure a spot at 8th & Fremont, where an announcers’ stage and limited bleacher seating make it easy for the Lolos and Lolas to enjoy the view. Watch as

vibrant floats and traditional dancers wind through the Fremont East Entertainment District.

The Post-Parade Showcase (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM): After the final dragon passes, the celebration moves inside Downtown Container Park. This free, family-friendly festival features:

Live Cultural Performances: Martial arts and traditional dances that honor our shared Pacific heritage.

Vendor Showcase: A chance to support local artists and small businesses—perfect for finding unique gifts.

High-Energy Dance Fitness: Led by local favorites, this session is essentially a community Zumba party. It’s the perfect way for the whole family to get moving and shake off any “malas” from the past year!

The Year of the Fire Horse: 2026 Energy 2026 is no ordinary year—it is the Year of the Fire Horse, a powerful zodiac combination that occurs only once every 60 years. In Filipino-Chinese cul-

ture, the Horse represents strength, freedom, and a “can-do” spirit. When combined with the Fire element, that energy is doubled. For those born in 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, or 2014, this is a “Ben Ming Nian” (zodiac year), making it a vital time to focus on balance and prosperity.

“Swerte” Essentials: Tikoy and Traditions No Lunar New Year is complete without the flavors that bind us together. Right now, Las Vegas Chinatown hubs like 99 Ranch Market and 168 Market are stocked with Tikoy (Nian Gao). This sweet, sticky rice cake is a staple in Filipino-Chinese homes because it symbolizes family members “sticking together.”

The Pro-Tip: Pick up the classic

brown sugar or ube-flavored Tikoy now, slice it, dip it in egg, and fry it until golden for your weekend feast.

The Lucky 12: While in Chinatown, don’t forget to grab your 12 round fruits—like mandarins or giant pears— to invite wealth into your home.

Colors and Charms for 2026

To navigate the intense “Fire” of 2026, Filipino-American tradition suggests leaning into specific elements for harmony:

Lucky Colors: Wear Emerald Green (Wood) and Gold (Metal). Green acts as “fuel” for the Fire, while Gold helps “contain” and refine that energy into tangible success.

Lucky Stones: Look for Jade or Ruby at the festival’s vendor stalls. Jade is the ultimate stone for protection and family harmony, while Ruby enhances the natural vitality of the Horse.

The Best Direction: When choosing

NEW YEAR - FROM PAGE A-1

your parade viewing spot, the South is the Horse’s auspicious direction—perfect for the sunny, open layout of Container Park.

A Pista in the Desert

With our new Filipino Town designation, our community’s presence in Las Vegas has never been more vibrant. Attending “Chinese New Year in the Desert” is a beautiful way to show our Bayanihan spirit alongside the broader AAPI community. Whether you’re there for the high-energy fitness, the Tikoy, or the chance to see world-renowned magician Shin Lim (who kicks off the festivities on Feb 19th at The Palazzo), there is something for every generation.

Gather the cousins, put on your best green and gold, and head downtown to welcome 2026 with a loud “Manigong Bagong Taon!”

SANDIGANBAYAN REJECTS BONG REVILLA’S BID TO BE DETAINED IN CAMP CRAME

MANILA, Feb 6 (Mabuhay) -- The Sandiganbayan denied the bid of former senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr. to be transferred to the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center in Camp Crame.

In a resolution promulgated on Feb. 5, the anti-graft court’s Third Division ruled that Revilla will remain at the Quezon City Jail Male Dormitory in Payatas for his trial on charges of Malversation through Falsification of Public Documents over an alleged ghost flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan.

Revilla earlier cited security concerns over gang-related violence in the Quezon City Jail in Payatas, where he is detained along with other co-accused officials of DPWH Bulacan 1st District Engineering Office

The prosecution argued that Revilla’s claim of risks and potential harm was based on “sheer conjecture, guesswork, and speculation.”

In denying the motion, the court cited the testimony of Jail Superintendent Maria Lourdes Pacion, who said the Payatas facility is safe, uncongested, and equipped with specialized security measures for high-profile detainees.

It also took into account a January 6 letter from then acting PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., urging the anti-graft court to reconsider commitment orders to the PNP Custodial Center.

In the letter, Nartatez said the facility is intended only as a temporary holding area and that the continued commitment of detainees there is “burdensome” for the PNP.

The court further noted that detention in a Bureau of Jail Management and Penology facility allows accused persons to earn good conduct time allowance, or GCTA, that may shorten any eventual sentence unlike in police custodial centers.

“The commitment and continued detention of the accused in the Quezon City Jail is not only imperative by law and procedural rules, but also signals the start of computation of time allowances to which they may be granted,” the resolution penned by Associate Justice Karl Miranda read.

It also denied the motion to commit

co-accused DPWH Bulacan 1st DEO Engineer Emelita Juat to the Bulacan Police Provincial Office, which Associate Justice Miranda earlier commented could affect her timely attendance at hearings.

The court also rejected Revilla’s motion to quash the information, denying his camp’s claim that the malversation charge went beyond the scope of the initial graft investigation.

‘Mayaman naman sila’: Supporters defend Revilla amid new corruption case It said the Office of the Ombudsman has the authority to determine which offense to charge based on the facts established during its probe.

“The absence or presence of conspiracy is factual in nature and involves evidentiary matter. Hence, the allegation of conspiracy is better left ventilated during trial,” the resolution read.

The court further said Revilla’s bid to file a motion for reconsideration with the Office of the Ombudsman was “futile and without merit,” because the Information had already been filed in court.

It noted that Revilla had five days under the Ombudsman’s Rules of Procedure to file such a motion upon knowing of the filing as early as January 23.

“Considering the present detention of the accused for a non-bailable offense and lack of any compelling reason or exceptional circumstance, the court finds no basis to grant leave of court for the filing of a motion for reconsideration before the Ombudsman,” it read.

The court also denied Revilla’s motion for reinvestigation, saying he was not deprived of due process since he had already participated in the preliminary investigation and filed counter-affidavits.

It also dismissed the claim that the former senator’s arrest warrant was “precipitately issued,” noting that judges have discretion to issue warrants following their assessment of the prosecutor’s resolution and supporting evidence.

Moreover, the former senator’s motion to defer the issuance of warrant of

arrest was also declared moot since the warrants had already been issued and the accused are already in custody.

The Sandiganbayan also denied accused Juanito Mendoza’s bid to consolidate the malversation case with the graft case pending before the Fourth Division.

Bong Revilla tried but failed to bring clothes, gadgets into QC Jail: BJMP

The court said merging the cases would only “muddle the issues” and create “disarray” in the proceedings.

Revilla’s counsel, Atty. Ramon Esguerra, said the defense team will review possible legal remedies.

Revilla is set to be arraigned on Feb. 9, along with Engr. Arjay Domasig and Juanito Mendoza. All accused are also scheduled to be arraigned on the same

day on malversation charges.

DPWH Bulacan 1st District Assistant Engineer Brice Hernandez, Engr. Jaypee Mendoza, Engr. Emelita Juat and Christina Pineda earlier pleaded not guilty for their graft charges.

Revilla was tagged in the flood control mess after former DPWH Usec. Roberto Bernardo claimed he received kickbacks in exchange for endorsing flood control projects.

The prosecution alleged the respondents connived to divert P76 million funds for the construction of the project, which was never implemented despite being declared completed.

Revilla was previously acquitted of plunder charges over the alleged misuse of his Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF). (MNS)

No province left behind in P20/kg. rice under ‘BBM Na’ – DA

MANILA, Feb 6 (Mabuhay) -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Thursday assured that no province will be left behind in its PHP20 per kg. rice program under the ‘Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na’.

The DA made the assurance as the government launched the BBM Na in Tawi-Tawi as part of the agency’s nationwide expansion efforts in line with the food security and affordability targets of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

In a statement, Agriculture Assistant Secretary for Agribusiness, Marketing and Consumer Affairs Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra said the move is strategic considering that the province has no local rice production.

“Bagama’t magkakahiwalay ang ating mga isla at malayo sa sentro ng kalakalan, malinaw ang direktiba ng Pangulong Marcos na walang lalawigan ang malilimutan at walang Pilipino ang maiiwan (Although our islands are separated and far from the center of trade, the directives of our President Marcos remain clear, that no province will be forgotten and no Filipino will be left behind),” she said.

Tawi-Tawi Governor Yshmael Sali welcomed the expansion, stressing its

advantages for qualified beneficiaries.

“The Provincial Government of Tawi-Tawi fully commits to support the P20 Benteng Bigas program. Malaking tulong ito sa aming mga kababayan, lalo na sa mga pamilyang higit na nangangailangan (It’s a great help for our fellow Filipinos, especially for families that are in need the most),” he added.

Tawi-Tawi relies heavily on the fisheries and seaweed sectors, making it a challenge to access affordable local rice.

The province depends on shipments of the staple from other regions.

“Ang Tawi-Tawi ay mahalagang bahagi ng ating layunin na tiyakin ang sapat, abot kaya, at de kalidad na bigas para sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino (Tawi-Tawi is a vital part of our aspiration to ensure sufficient, affordable, and quality rice for each Filipino family),” Guevarra said.

With the BBM Na in place, about 25,000 beneficiaries are expected to benefit in the province.

These include local fishers, seaweed farmers, members of low-income households, and other individuals from vulnerable sectors in Tawi-Tawi who are eligible to purchase rice at PHP20 per kg. (MNS)

HANDS ON VS. MECHANICAL CHAIR MASSAGE: HOW EACH SUPPORTS MENTAL HEALTH IN TODAY’S HIGHSTRESS WORLD.

In the quiet moments of my practice, I often reflect on a concept we call the “still point.” It is that profound beat of silence where the body stops fighting its own tension and simply begins to heal. As we move through February—a month often dedicated to the heart—it is fitting that we discuss how we can find this balance in a world that rarely stops moving.

For the Filipino-American community here in Southern Nevada, February carries a dual weight. While we celebrate Valentine’s Day and the warmth of our families, it is also American Heart Month. For many of our “kababayans” working in the high-stress environments of the Las Vegas Strip or the demanding corridors of our local hospitals, heart health is often synonymous with stress management.

One of the most frequent questions I receive is: “Jasmine, does it matter how I get a massage? Is the massage chair at the mall or my office just as good as coming to see you?”

As we navigate this high-tech, high-stress era of 2026, the answer lies in understanding the distinct roles of Hands-On vs. Mechanical Chair Massage and how each serves as a bridge to your mental and physical “still point.”

The Human Intuition: The Power of the “Hilot” Spirit Hands-on chair massage, administered by a trained therapist, offers something that technology—no matter how advanced the AI or robotics of 2026 becomes—cannot replicate: human intuition and the “Hilot” spirit of care.

A skilled therapist does more than just apply pressure. We sense the subtle shifts in muscle tension, the change in your breathing patterns, and the non-verbal cues your body sends when a specific “knots” or pasma is triggered. Evidence-based research continues to show that human touch activates the release of oxytocin, often called the “bonding hormone.”

In a month dedicated to the heart, this is vital. Oxytocin helps lower anxiety, reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), and promotes emotional grounding. For our healthcare workers and caregivers who spend their days touching and healing others, receiving human touch is a necessary act of “filling their own cup.” It addresses emotional fatigue in a way that a machine simply cannot.

The Mechanical Marvel: Consistency in a Busy World

On the other side of the spectrum, we have the mechanical massage chair. These machines have evolved significantly. The models we see today use sophisticated 3D rollers, body-scanning technology, and infrared heat to mimic kneading and tapping techniques.

The greatest strength of the mechanical chair is accessibility. For the busy professional who cannot find an hour in their schedule for a clinic vis-

it, a ten-minute “micro-break” in a massage chair at the office or at home provides instant relief. It is a tool for maintenance. It improves circulation and provides a private space for those who may feel self-conscious about interpersonal bodywork but still need to lower their baseline stress levels.

Therapeutic Depth vs. Daily Maintenance

When we look at these through a clinical lens, the difference becomes a matter of “purpose.”

Hands-On Massage remains the gold standard for targeted therapeutic work. If you are recovering from a sports injury, dealing with chronic sciatica, or need rehabilitative care, a therapist can adjust intensity based on your medical history and real-time feedback. We find the “trigger points” that a machine might roll right over.

Mechanical Chairs are excellent for general relaxation. They are consistent and cost-effective over the long term. They serve as a wonderful “middle-man” between professional sessions, keeping the muscles supple and the mind calm during the long weeks between deep-tissue appointments.

A Growing Community of Wellness

In Southern Nevada, we are seeing a beautiful shift toward convenience-based wellness. Many Filipino-owned businesses are now offering onsite chair massage for corporate events and family gatherings. This mobile “wellness-on-demand” reflects our cultural values—bringing the care directly to the people, making health a communal experience.

At the same time, luxury massage chairs have become a staple in many Las Vegas homes. While reviewers agree they cannot fully replace the nuanced hands of a therapist, they provide a sanctuary for frequent, shortburst sessions that fit the 24/7 lifestyle of our city.

Finding Your Balance this February

Both paths lead to the same goal: a healthier body and a quieter mind. Choose Hands-On when you need emotional connection, specific injury support, or that deep sense of safety that comes from professional human care.

Choose Mechanical for those days when you only have fifteen minutes to spare and need a quick reset to get through your shift.

As your heart beats for your loved ones this month, remember to let it beat for yourself, too. Whether through the intuitive hands of a therapist or the rhythmic roll of a chair, find your “still point.” Your heart, and your health, will thank you.

Jasminemarie Soller, LMT, is a multifaceted professional based in Las Vegas, Nevada She is a licensed massage therapist acquiring practical knowledge of being in the athletic/holistic/medical/education fields that spans over 28 years of experience, certified by the California Massage Therapy Council and Licensed by the state of Nevada. She specialized in clinical bodywork and holistic wellness. She is also an adjunct instructor for Mikhail Education Corporation for their Personal Fitness Trainer program, Allied Health Instructor and the Director of the Massage Therapy Program at the Advanced Training Institute campus. Jasminemarie also serves as a member in many associations like AFMTE, ABMP and AMTA where she serves as a board member for the Nevada Chapter. Her column, “The Still Point,” explores the intersection of traditional healing and modern recovery.

FROM LAS VEGAS TO MANILA:

AND RJ YANGA

Las Vegas, NV. - Excitement is building in the basketball community as two rising high school stars from Nevada — Jax Gonzales of Desert Oasis High School and RJ Yanga of Sierra Vista High School — prepare for the journey of a lifetime to the NBTC/ Manila Live 2026 basketball tournament in the Philippines. This prestigious international event, produced in partnership with the renowned National Basketball Training Center (NBTC), draws elite youth players and teams from across the world for a week of high-level competition, development, and global exposure.

The Manila Live Basketball Championship sits at the crossroads of heritage and athletic excellence. It celebrates Filipino-heritage athletes while also inviting international competitors to test their mettle against some of the best up-and-coming talent in grassroots basketball. The competition features boys and girls divisions across multiple age brackets, culminating with games at the iconic SM Mall of Asia Arena in Manila — a world-class venue known for hosting major sporting events with capacities of up to 20,000 spectators.

For Jax and RJ, this opportunity is more than just a hoop tournament. It’s a culmination of years of early morning practices, weekend tournaments, and unwavering commitment to improvement — all in service of one goal: competing against the best, learning from elite coaches, and gaining international experience that could help shape their future in the sport.

Jax Gonzales: A

Versatile Threat on the Court

Jax Gonzales has carved a reputation at Desert Oasis as a dynamic scorer and floor leader whose competitiveness stands out in every game. Whether pushing the pace or anchoring the defense, Jax brings energy, precision, and basketball IQ beyond his years. Coaches, teammates, and fans alike commend his work ethic — a trait that sets him apart when the pressure’s on.

Competing for the Fil-Am Nation Organization at Manila Live, Jax will join a roster designed to blend local talent with international players who qualify through Filipino heritage pathways. This elite environment isn’t just about competition; it’s also a stage for players to be seen by scouts, to engage in cultural exchange, and to grow as ambassadors of the game on a global scale.

Playing under the Fil-Am Nation banner adds extra significance for Jax, connecting him to a broader community of Filipino-American athletes who have used the platform to elevate both their play and their identity within the basketball world.

RJ YANGA: SIERRA VISTA’S SHARPSHOOTER WITH A BIG HEART

Alongside Jax is RJ Yanga, a standout pathlete from Sierra Vista High School whose sharpshooting and tenacity have helped make his team a formidable force in Nevada’s competitive high school circuit. Known for his accuracy from outside and his infectious enthusiasm, RJ brings a competitive edge that keeps opponents guessing and teammates inspired.

For RJ, the NBTC/Manila Live experience represents more than individual achievement — it’s a chance to represent his heritage, connect with peers from around the world, and take his game to a level that few high school players ever experience. The tournament’s international scope means adapting to diverse playing styles, learning new strategies, and building camaraderie that transcends borders.

A Global Stage for Growth and Opportunity

The NBTC/Manila Live 2026 tournament offers participating athletes the chance to compete in pool play, bracket games, and showcase matches against teams representing the Philippines, the United States, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Aside from national TV broadcasts and international live streams, the event also includes coaches clinics — all designed to enhance player development and visibility.

For Jax and RJ, standing shoulder to shoulder with talent from across the globe not only tests their skills, but it also opens doors to future opportunities — from collegiate recruitment to potential professional exposure. Events like these have historically helped players gain recognition on and off the court, fostering lifelong connections and growth in basketball and beyond.

Support Their Dream: Sponsors and Donations Welcome Traveling halfway across the world to compete at this level is a remarkable honor, but it also comes with significant expenses. From flights and accommodations to uniforms, training gear, and tournament fees, the costs add up quickly — especially for families who are doing everything they can to support these young athletes’ dreams.

That’s why Jax and RJ (and their families) are actively seeking sponsors and donations to help with the financial aspects of this journey. Contributions of any size will go directly toward covering travel, lodging, meals, and competition costs, ensuring that these dedicated student-athletes can focus on showcasing their best on the international stage. If you’re passionate about youth sports, invested in cultural heritage programs, or simply inspired by hard-working young athletes chasing their dreams, now is the perfect time to step in and support Jax and RJ as they represent their schools, communities, and the broader Filipino-American basketball family at NBTC/Manila Live 2026. Together, we can help these players not only compete — but thrive — on one of the world’s most exciting grassroots basketball stages.

No shiFt in aLLianCe as US FoCuses on Western HemisPhere -- PH envoy

MANILA, Feb 6 (Mabuhay) -- There is no expected major change in the deep defense partnership between the Philippines and the United States as the latter increases focus on the Western Hemisphere, said Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez.

The Pentagon recently released its new National Defense Strategy, establishing homeland defense and the Western Hemisphere as a priority.

“I don’t think that there’s any major changes as far as our alliance is concerned, especially on our Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT), mutual defense alliance with the United States,” Romualdez told reporters in an interview in Pasay City.

“[I] think the administration of Pres-

ident [Donald] Trump is just making sure it’s securing the western area, rightly so, because that is their neighborhood,” he added.

The envoy pointed out that aside from the US, the Philippines is also working with other allies to sustain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Robert Ewing, meanwhile, reaffirmed that the US is committed to its obligations under the MDT, and would remain a “strong Philippine ally,” especially as the relations between the two states enter 80 years this 2026.

“The United States stands with the Philippines and our other allies for a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific,” he said. (MNS)

Heavy and long-term use of marijuana has the potential to cause lung cancer. CBDs (cannabinoids) are chemical compounds found within the cannabis sativa plant. Marijuana high-potency products (oils, edibles, concentrates) with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana that to provides the “high” on brain receptors to alter the mood and perception.

Vaping is not safer than smoking, just like jumping out of a frying pan to the fire. They are both very toxic. Those deceptive advertisements are disingenuous, promoted by greedy entrepreneurs with deep pockets.

While the legislation to allow the use of medical marijuana for chronic neuropathic (nerve-related) and other causes of pain is a welcome addition to the physician’s armamentarium, legalizing and promoting recreational marijuana is insanity and a danger to society. Alcohol and tobacco are responsible for 75 percent of all major illnesses we have today. Adding marijuana for recreation makes no sense. It is plain stupidity.

Marijuana is associated with physical, mental, and social dangers. Medically, it elevates the risk for strokes, heart attacks, and cardiac rhythm disturbances. Its use can permanently lead to loss of IQ, as much as 8 points, which does not come back after quitting marijuana. Its frequent use could also lead to erectile dysfunction and low sperm count.

More than 40 percent of drivers who died in car crashes tested positive for marijuana (THC). The death rates among marijuana users are 3 times higher than those of non-users, and suicides are also more prevalent among them.

So, why have the majority of our legislators voted in favor of recreational marijuana?

Lung cancer stats

Cancer of the lungs is the commonest cause of cancer deaths (among all

MARIJUANA WARNING

other cancers) in the United States, the Philippines, and other nations around the world. In the USA, out of the 226,650 cases of lung cancer, 4,730 died in 2025, 87 percent were non-small cell malignancies. Globally, it accounts for about 1.8 million deaths yearly, making lung cancer the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. By the time it is diagnosed, 60 percent of lung cancers are already in their advanced stage, surgery is no longer feasible, and the 5-year survival rate is lower than 10 percent.

Ninety percent of lung cancers are caused by tobacco exposure, not only among smokers but also among people around them, from secondhand smoke. Worldwide, there are still more than 20 percent of adults who smoke. Other contributing factors are asbestos, radon, and environmental air pollution.

Supercentenarians

The nations with the highest number of supercentenarians are Japan (99,763 aged 100 or older, England/ Wales (about 16,000), Italy (110), the United States (about 60), and France (39)

Three of the supercentenarians in the world live in Brazil. Three others are in the Philippines (Genoveva, “Lola Bebang,” Garcia, who turned 110 last January 3, 2026) and Lauro Bilaos, 109, Anna Wilmot, 110, and Francisca Susano, who died in 2021, cited, but unverified, to be 124.

Researchers believe “distinct genetic and immunological factors may be driving this effect… relatively rare gene variants that support a robust immune system, genomic stability, and mitochondrial function.”

Protein maintenance, protection of the immune system and gut microbiome, avoidance of inflammatory foods and unhealthy habits and behaviors, all promote health and longevity.

8 pillars of lifestyle

1. Diet – basically plant-based: vegetables, legumes, fruits, whole grains,

nuts, and seeds — minimizing meat, processed foods, and salt. Be well-hydrated with fresh, filtered water.

2. Physical activity – walking, Tai Chi, Tai Bo, balancing activity, light weight-bearing exercise

3. Sleep – 8 hours of quality sleep; caution with sleep aid

4. Stress Management – be positive, try to relax, take vacations, meditate, pray

5. Family – a loving and stable home life is the foundation of a happy life

6. Social Ties – have a ton of friends, go out, travel, and enjoy life

7. Avoid self-destruction – avoid tobacco and abstain from alcohol and illicit drugs

8. Have a purpose – strive to help others and make this world better.

Implantable microchips

In a perfect world, universal implantation of this radio frequency device on everybody (data and info adjusted for each age or professional group, personal, company or government needs, etc.) and used only for legitimate, legal and noble purpose, this micro-chip could make life better for all of us, provide better security (tracing) and peace of mind for us and our loved ones, and even save lives, and tremendously benefit mankind as a whole. However, this is not a perfect world. That’s why there are concerns and fears. But just as any offspring of advances in science and technology, the actual and potential benefits of RFID and its more sophisticated models will someday make the implantable microchip a common “household” item. Who knows? Perhaps fashion might even jump in and create a “designer series” of microchips.

Text messaging

Anything in excess, even water, oxygen, food, talking, rest, etc., is bad for us. Wise and appropriate use of cellphones and their nice features, like

text messaging in moderation, does not pose any health hazard to the user. Cell phones and text messaging are technological wonders of our times that, when used properly, provide great convenience, benefits, and security for users and their family and friends. Exceptions to this is the use of a cellphone while driving or doing activities that require full attention. Accidental deaths (while driving or even while walking and texting) have been widely reported. While on a night out, 100% attention on your date is a must. In this situation, the repeated use of a cell phone for calls, or frequent text-messaging, could be hazardous not only to the user’s physical health but to the relationship. Besides, this unwelcome practice is rude and anti-social, vehemently frowned upon in polite society.

Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He is a decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, US senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Astronaut Gus Grissom, pugilist Muhammad Ali, distinguished educators, renowned scientists, etc. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com. On Amazon.com, search for “Where is My America?” Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

Why the Youth Vote Matters in Nevada’s 2026 Midterms

Nevada is heading into an important midterm election, and young people’s voices are more important than ever. In Nevada, elections can be very close, and sometimes just a few thousand votes decide the winner. That means young people can make a real difference.

This year, all four of Nevada’s U.S. House seats are up for election, along with seats in the Nevada Assembly and Senate. But it’s not just about state and federal positions. Local offices like county commissioners, city council members, school board members, and other community leadership roles are also on the ballot. These leaders make decisions that affect daily life in your neighborhood, including schools, roads, parks, public safety, and local ervices.

Young people make up a big part of Nevada’s population, especially in Southern Nevada. Getting involved doesn’t just mean voting. It can also mean organizing events, creating social media campaigns, or joining community programs. Every action helps shape the future and holds leaders accountable.

That is why youth-led programs across Southern Nevada are working right now to help young people learn new skills, get involved in their communities, and become the next generation of leaders.

Youth Programs Happening Right Now in Southern Nevada Southern Nevada offers several youth programs that focus on leadership, community involvement, and making a positive impact. If you know a young person who wants to get involved, build new skills, or make a difference, here are three programs happening right now in Southern Nevada:

Battle Born Futures

Battle Born Futures is a fast-growing, youth-led organization focused on civic engagement, leadership development, and community involvement. With active chapters at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas; the College of Southern Nevada; and Nevada State University, the organization equips young people with the skills and confidence to become leaders in their communities. Members gain hands-on experience through leadership training, campus-based programming, and community-focused initiatives.

Creator Academy: Digital Creator Fellowship (Battle Born Futures x Nevada New Vote)

The Digital Creator Fellowship is a collaborative program between Battle Born Futures and Nevada New Vote that empowers young people to use digital storytelling, social media, and creative content to engage their peers in civic participation. Fellows build real-world digital skills while learning how to create impactful content that drives advocacy and youth engagement.

One APIA Nevada Youth Fellowship

The One APIA Nevada Youth Fellowship is a leadership and advocacy program designed to uplift Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander youth. Participants receive training in community organizing, policy advocacy, and civic engagement while gaining opportunities to connect with leaders and take action on issues impacting their communities.

These programs are designed for high school and college students who are passionate about leadership, service, creativity, and making a positive impact in Nevada.

Follow @oneapianevada, @battlebornfutures, and @newvotenevada on social media to learn more and stay up to date on how to get involved.

Award-winning Author / Journalist

Carlos Palanca Awardee & Professional Host/ Emcee

Author website: www.marylaineviernes.com

There is no cross I carry more cheerfully and banner that I uphold more proudly than the one of parenthood. It is challenging at best and fearsome at worst and many have commented about the bravery (or the utter lunacy) in raising both a toddler and a teenager.

The toddler and her tantrums, constantly asserting her place in this world as the princess of our home and the teenager with his mood swings, defiance and unbridled appetite for risks can make the faint of heart want to bail out and cry – and cry I have, many, many times. Because I am hungry, unwell, tired, and yet I need to wake up and take my kids to school, go back to work and chase my dreams.

But if there is one gift from God that I have always had since a child and which I wield as a prized weapon now that I have children of my own, it is Courage.

Rooted in the Latin word ‘cor’ or its Greek equivalent, ‘cardio,’ both literally meaning ‘heart,’ the word “Courage” means “to take heart.” Beyond just a state or a feeling, Courage is a Virtue.

I attribute the joy and strength of my heart and its unwaning patience in my children through studying and learning about the Four Virtues of the ancient world propagated by the Stoics and promulgated beautifully by philosopher Marcus Aurelius among many others, the virtues of Temperance (Discipline), Wisdom, Justice and Courage. Maya Angelou famously highlighted that “without Courage, you cannot practice any other virtue consistently.”

Courage is not just one of the Virtues; it is said to the form of every virtue at its testing point. While I am imperfect and far from virtuous, I think I am wearing both the virtues of Courage and Wisdom in my desire to continue learning and imparting my faith to my two treasured children which I believe is my foremost mission in this life, a way for my own self to keep growing as my children grow.

Motherhood is a myriad of balancing acts; my son Godric is more cautious and needs more encouragement

whereas my daughter Brooklyn is daring and requires my full, vigilant attention. Recently, I enrolled my daughter in her first skiing lesson, and I was surprised at how quickly she got the sport primarily because she is not held back by fear. She is only 4 years old and can already ski down the Ponderosa while my son, who learned to ski when he was 8 years old cried half the day before he got the hang of it. Now at 16 he’s on the advanced going to expert levels and can take on the black diamond and while I do allow him on occasion, I am glad he listens to me (curbing his madcap teenage whims) when I remind him to stick to the intermediate to advanced slopes since we are out to have fun and not to prove ourselves to anyone. Skiing is enjoyable but at the same time we need to attenuate risk and disaster. We must always temper courage with sense and restraint, lest bravado takes us somewhere we don’t want to be in, like the hospital.

I envision Courage as the foundation; the trunk of the tree that leads to these branches of values and ideas that I strive to practice in my Home: Compassion – derived from two words, “Com” (with/together) and “Passion” it translates to “suffering with.” I am never one to coach from the sidelines; I take pride in knowing what I teach my children because I had been in that certain situation before. Supporting my son in High School means waking up early and then mothering my other child on top of fulfilling my other roles in my profession, businesses and other passions.

Obambulate – this word pertains to wandering aimlessly but it can also mean “walk up to” and can also apply to those who are deliberate in their intentions. I choose to embrace the latter while celebrating the fact that this is all about wandering and wondering. I am grateful that my children and I get to experience all sorts of thrilling adventures; not only does travel build knowledge and insight but it is also a testament to Courage; being able to find yourself in places meant only for the bold.

Unorthodox – I have a very different way of seeing life and it takes courage to buck the trend especially when it does not align with what is most important in my life. My son is now an adolescent and once he said he was “depressed” merely because many of his friends so I lovingly made him realize the unbelievably great (borderline privileged) life he lives, slamming some gratitude where I could - including almost booking him a one-way ticket to the Philippines to serve the dejected parts of Manila so he can feel what depression truly is – and not what this clueless and entitled generation makes it out to be.

Rumination – At night when my kids are finally asleep, I look forward to reading my books and my forever favorite (I have read it twice, but I keep returning to my favorite chapters when I am in between novels) is one of Ryan Holiday’s bestselling Stoic Virtues Series “Discipline is Destiny.” Thinking takes Courage. It is a bold move to look within – to face everything you do not want to face such as your mistakes, insecurities, doubts and fears. But I have found that without introspection, there is no growth or healing, and courage alone can help you look within.

Analgesia – in medical terms, this means the ‘absence of the sense of pain without loss of consciousness.’

From the Disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ who preached the gospel to the ends of the earth martyred in the worst ways for their faith, to warriors who endured all forms of agony, mankind has been able to withstand pain and I

believe that it can only be through the special form of courage; a gift of the Holy Spirit known as “Fortitude” that this can be possible. Like an analgesic – the pain remains there – so does cognizance and intention, but somehow is allayed by the resolution to continue what one has set his heart to do.

Gratitude – Courage teaches you to be grateful, and gratitude is the key to joy, fulfilment and abundance. In today’s world of fruitless bluster – people protesting left and right not for the right intentions but mostly for their few minutes of fame, some money raised via GoFundMe from a tragedy, people have become rebels without a cause, misconstruing mettle for absurdity, doing things just because they feel they are entitled to, always complaining about everything because blinding comfort and privilege dims and dulls the sense of gratitude.

Erudite – I absolutely love this world for it encompasses everything I aim to be educated and knowledgeable in various aspects of life in my speech, actions and intention. And it takes bravery to push against self-doubt and apathy that restricts you and tells you that there is no other way to improve yourself. Becoming an Erudite without even trying to prove yourself as one is indubitably a fruit that can only spring from the tree of Courage.

This month of love, February, may we find the Courage to follow our Heart.

For comments, ideas and request for coverage, email marylaine.viernes@ gmail.com

love in the winter season: skiing is a family affair for the author, marylaine and her kids, godric and brooklyn. it teaches discipline and determination more than just a form of sport and bonding with their friends as well.

News Photos from the Philipppines

OIL PRICE HIKE. An attendant refills the fuel tank of a motorcycle rider at a gas station in Paco, Manila, on Monday (Feb. 2, 2026). Oil companies will increase diesel and gasoline prices by PHP1.60 and PHP0.80 per liter, respectively, and kerosene prices by PHP1.10 per liter effective Tuesday (Feb. 3). (MNS photo)

UPGRADE. Pedestrians use a footbridge to cross an EDSA intersection in Cubao, Quezon City on Friday (Jan. 30, 2026). The footbridge’s roof is being replaced for the convenience of the public. (MNS photo)

LIVELIHOOD ON WHEELS. A vendor ferries dozens of slippers on a motorcycle sidecar along Mother Ignacia Street in Quezon City on Saturday (Jan. 31, 2026). The mobile setup enables small-scale sellers to bring their merchandise directly to neighborhoods. (MNS photo)

WALLED CITY TOUR. Foreign tourists ride bamboo bicycles in Intramuros, Manila on Friday (Jan. 30, 2026). The unique experience offers them a leisurely ride around the historic Walled City, which once served as the seat of Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines.(MNS photo)

LEVEL. Workers paint a newly installed fence of Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila on Friday (Jan. 30, 2026). A big tree was felled by inclement weather last year and replaced with the

NTRAMUROS QUAKE DRILL. The Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office conducts an Intramuros-wide earthquake drill on Friday (Jan. 30, 2026). The exercise aimed to enhance preparedness among residents and businesses in the historic district by simulating various scenarios and real-life responses to improve coordination during an actual emergency. (MNS photo)

JOHN PRATS HAS NO PLANS TO RETURN TO ACTING

MANILA, Jan 24 (Mabuhay) -- Slowly carving a name for himself as one of the country’s most talented concert directors, John Prats said he has not forgotten his start in showbiz as a child actor in the ‘90s where he got his start as part of ABS-CBN’s iconic youth-oriented variety show Ang TV.

Last year, he went all over the world with TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan as they staged their highly successful ‘Sarili Nating Mundo’ 40-show tour. This year, the 41-year-old kapamilya artist starts off 2026 with another exciting event as he takes on the helm of the Champions of the Heart concert on Valentine’s day.

During the concert presscon held last January 15, John shared how his journey from acting to directing initially got off to a slow start in his teenage years. “Yung journey ko as a director nag-start siya nung si director Manny Gilbert Perez, sumalangit nawa siya, siya yung naging director namin for Jologs and Trip, yung ginagawa naming pelikula, lagi niya sinasabi na manuod kami ng monitor, tingnan mo kung paano mag-direct. Siyempre nung time na yun, I was like 17, 16, so wala akong interes talaga,” he admitted.

John said he had never planned to get into directing, which is why he had the most unexpected reaction after being offered a new career path by one of his mentors in showbiz, Lauren Dyogi. “in 2016, when I was about to renew my contract with ABS-CBN at that time, si direk Lauren offered me to be a director. At first I got really offended. I felt na parang, bakit i-no-offer sa akin ni direk Lauren ang pagiging director, wala na bang may gusto makakita sa akin on cam? They just want to give me work pero behind the camera. Pero fast forward, natapos yung meeting na yun, I did Probinsyano,” he shared.

Later that same year, John got an unexpected kind of inspiration after attending a concert from an international artist which opened him up to the possibility of going behind the camera. “One time I watched the concert of Coldplay in 2016, yun yung first concert ng Coldplay dito. When I watched the concert, I felt something really different. It was more than the visuals. And I wanted to use that feeling na parang teka nga, parang gusto ko maging director. Lumapit

na ako kay direk Lauren, ‘You know what direk Lauren? Can I just take that offer again?’

“So pina-train niya ako with direk Arnel (Natividad) for TV nung time na yun. And then in 2017, si Moira (del Torre), lumapit, kasi kaibigan namin siya, gusto niya gawin yung music video niya. Yung hit pa lang niya at that time was ‘Malaya.’ Sabi ko, ‘Alam mo, sige try ko nga mag-direct. Ako na mag-di-direct ng music video mo for fun.’ So I did the ‘Malaya’ music video and then in-offer na din na sakin na why don’t I do her concert. Sabi ko wala akong alam. I really don’t know anything, technicals, wala. Cornerstone surrounded me with the right people to guide me, para yung vision ko maging reality. And then from there, nagsimula na siya,” he recalled. It was in 2018 when John found himself being drawn to directing music artists. Which is why he looks forward to working with kapamilya singing champions in the Champions of the Heart concert.

“In 2018, I fell in love with OPM. Kaya sabi ko until now, hanggang ngayon nangyayari pa rin na I still get kilig. Kinikilig ako kasi yung mundo nila Jona (Viray), nila Jed (Madela), sir Martin (Nievera), nila Sof (Vasquez), is a different world from my world before. Like my world is bilang artista for the longest time. And now, nasa mundo nila ako. And ang sarap ng feeling na yun na pag dinala ka ng Panginoon sa isang bagay na para sa ‘yo, para ihain, yung walang effort, ibibigay Niya. And pag sinasabi ni Jona na bakit ang bilis ng mga ideas ko, this is weird but this is true, I always come to a meeting empty. Like always empty. I don’t plan things. Even if I have a project in December, I don’t plan things. I let God use me. Kumbaga ako yung extension niya. Yung creativity hindi lahat ito ako. Lahat po Siya. Kasi ako, lagi akong bagsak nung bata ako eh. Hindi ko alam saan ko nakukuha yung mga ideas but it’s all from Him,” he admitted. When asked if he still has any interest to pursue acting, John revealed that he thinks he has found his purpose in life already.

“May nagtatanong nga lagi sa akin kung hindi na ba ako mag-aartista, ayoko na ba umarte, in a conversation I had with Coco (Martin) a few weeks

ago kung gusto ko ba bumalik, I said na happy ako kung nasaan ako because ang saya saya ng puso ko sa purpose na meron ako ngayon. It’s so selfless because it’s not about me. It’s always about them. About them, it’s about the audience, sa lahat ng nagbayad. Yun yung napakasarap na feeling pag nakikita ko yung artists ko sobrang umaangat. Ang sarap ng pakiramdam pag naririnig ko lahat ng palakpak pag may naiiyak, pag may natatawa. Parang glory ng buong show lahat yun, honoring Him and yun yung pinakamasarap. That’s why, sorry sa term but it’s really addictive that feeling. And that’s why pag may nagtatanong sa akin grabe, ang dami mong raket, I always tell them it’s not my raket. This is my life. Kasi once na yun ang mentality natin, na raket lang ‘to, pera lang ’to,” he said.

The Champions of the Heart concert director also trusts in the path that his faith has laid out for him in his career, which is to be a good director for his performers, his producers, and the con-

cert goers.

“For me, this is my life, this is my purpose. That’s why walang maliit, walang malaki. Lahat ng shows really special. There’s always a purpose for everything, for this show, for TV shows, sa lahat ng shows, lahat yan may purpose, just to glorify God and do the best for the artist and for the audience na nagbayad. Lalo na sa Pilipinas ngayon, hindi madali kumita ng pera. And I want to give that feeling na parang pag nanuod ako ng concert na ‘to, parang kumita yung producer kasi sobra sobra yung nanuod. Kasi sulit na sulit,” he added. Watch Sofronio Vasquez, Martin Nievera, Jed Madela, Jona Viray, and Klarisse de Guzman perform live at the Champions of the Heart concert along with. The one-night only show is happening on February 14, 8 p.m. at the Marriott Grand Ballroom, Newport World Resorts. Directed by John Prats and musical direction by Marvin Querido. (MNS)

Let the Holy Spirit Come and Take Control of Your Life

Matthew 26:47-54(NABRE)

The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus 47 While Jesus was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived, accompanied by a large crowd, with swords and clubs, who had come from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 48 His betrayer had arranged a sign with them, saying, “The man I shall kiss is the one; arrest him.” 49 Immediately he went over to Jesus and said, “Hail, Rabbi!”(a) and he kissed him. 50 Jesus answered him, “Friend, do what you have come for.” Then stepping forward they laid hands on Jesus and arrested him. 51 And behold, one of those who accompanied Jesus put his hand to his sword, drew it, and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his ear. 52 Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its sheath, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword. 53 Do you think that I cannot call upon my Father and he will not provide me at this moment with more than twelve legions of angels? 54 But then how would the scriptures be fulfilled which say that it must come to pass in this way?”

Often than not, we found ourselves taking control of every situation that troubles us especially if we know we can easily handle them. But our today Gospel story will surely be giving us reflection on how to properly handle any circumstances that we are going to face.

Saint Peter (ref. John 18:10) is the one who struck the high priest’s servant here. It is very certain that St. Peter knew he is facing trouble at that time. But being beside Jesus Christ whom he knew is the Son of the Living GOD (Matthew 16:16), St.Peter had the reason to think that they are on top of the situation. He believed nothing was hard for him because he had witnessed that when Jesus

Christ said “I am the one you are looking for.” those large crowd looking for Him, they turned and fell to the ground (John 18:6). St. Peter knew also that he was given the authority as the chief apostle and has the power given by Jesus to drive out demons and he is not anymore ordinary believer. What he forgot is to let Jesus take control and not him.

Jesus Christ on the other hand, considering He can really control the situation, kept still and let the will of GOD took control the situation (v. 54). His not taking control but submission to the will of the Father in Heaven brought the greatest victory of defeating Death for us. By letting the Holy Spirit in control inside of Him, made the believers heirs to the Promise of Eternal Life in Heaven.

There are so many instances that Jesus, though He was in the form of GOD placed Himself in the control of the Holy Spirit (Philippians 2:6-8). He moved in accordance with His will. We can recall that after His baptism, Jesus Christ let Himself be led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil (Matthew 4:1). John 6:38 says that Jesus had himself came down from heaven not to do His own will but the will of the One who sent Him. Not only what He was doing is what the Father was doing but also what He was saying is what the Father was saying (John 5:19, 14:24). He let the Holy Spirit that descended like a dove and come upon Him took control (Matthew 3:16). He also declared that no one can come to Him unless the Father who sent Him draw one to Him (John 6:44).

Proverbs 16 says, “1 Plans are made in human hearts, but from the Lord comes the tongue’s response. 2 All one’s ways are pure in one’s own eyes, but the measurer of motives is

the Lord. 3 Entrust your works to the Lord, and your plans will succeed. 4 The Lord has made everything for a purpose, even the wicked for the evil day. 5 Every proud heart is an abomination to the Lord; be assured that none will go unpunished. 6 By steadfast loyalty guilt is expiated, and by the fear of the Lord evil is avoided. 7 When the Lord is pleased with someone’s ways, he makes even enemies be at peace with them. 8 Better a little with justice, than a large income with injustice. 9 The human heart plans the way, but the Lord directs the steps.”

Also Exodus 14:14 says, “The Lord will fight for you; you have only to keep still.” “Be still and know that I am God!” (Psalms 46:11)

Let’s learn from our LORD Jesus Christ, though He was in the form of

God, did not regard equality with GOD. He put Himself under GOD’s control. He humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. Because of this, God greatly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the Name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in Heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:6-11).

GOD can do what we cannot do, so let Him take control of our life. HE always knows far better than us and more than that, GOD loves us. So better put our trust in Him, not on ourselves. AMEN (For feedbacks, https://amomentofeternalne.wixsite.com/amen)

Ay, ang Puso Ko! My banana heart!

On Love, Food, and Banana Blossoms

ebruary asks us to cook with feeling. Araw ng mga Puso is less about grand gestures and more about what simmers— quietly—on the stove. This Love Month, I’m offering a valentine that’s humble, generous, and endlessly adaptable: banana blossom, or puso ng saging. It’s a plant food with muscle and memory—nutritive, economical, and deeply rooted in Filipino kitchens from north to south. If romance is care practiced over time, banana blossom is the love language of our cuisine.

Banana blossom is the teardrop-shaped flower that grows at the end of a banana cluster, a familiar sight in backyards and farms alike. Long before “plant-based” became a buzzword, Filipino cooks were already there— peeling away the magenta bracts to reveal pale hearts destined for soups, sautés, and stews. In agrarian households, nothing went to waste; the blossom was never incidental, only patiently awaited.

My earliest imprint of banana blossom lives

na

In our backyard in Villa Fojas in the 70s, I remember we had banana plants, and it stood like generous relatives, offering themselves daily without ceremony. From them we took leaves for torta and suman, leaves for "palanchahin" when clothes needed ironing, "saha ng saging" for floral arrangements whenever we volunteered for parades, processions, or neighborhood funerals, and the dried banana blossoms destined for pata and asado when the kitchen called for something special. But for me and my siblings, the real treasure was the banana heart—sliced carefully for our lutu-lutuan, our play kitchen where sinigang was imagined long before it was mastered. That is why "puso ng saging" stays close to my heart: it fed our house, our neighbors, and our earliest memories of cooking together.

in my father’s Sinigang na Bisaya—a beautiful, bewildering pot that mirrored who he was: Caviteño by way of a Waray sensibility. Sourness leaned bold, aromatics were unapologetic, and the banana blossom arrived sliced just so—never mushy, never shy. It was a lesson in regional crosspollination long before I could name it. Love, after all, is often a strange mix that somehow works.

ng Saging

Ingredients

1 large Bangus (milkfish), cleaned and sliced into serving pieces

1 banana heart

2 medium tomatoes, quartered

1 medium onion, sliced Tamarind powder mix

Fish sauce or salt

5 cups water

Directions Prepare the banana heart. First peeling and discard the outer reddish layers until you reach the cream colored and softer core. Cut the stem off stem. Make 2-inch slices of the banana heart then place in a bowl of cold salted water and soak for about 15 to 20 minutes.

In a large pot, bring water to a boil.

Place bangus, banana blossom, tomatoes and onions then boil for around 15-20 minutes or until both are cooked. Fresh banana heart will give the broth a milky color. Add tamarind powder mix and season with fish sauce or salt. Adjust flavor to suit your taste.

Remove from heat and let it stand for a few minutes before serving

Before we cooked seriously, we cooked imaginatively. My sisters, cousins, and I played lutu-lutuan, “harvesting” banana blossoms and hearts, slicing them carefully (or as carefully as children can), pretending to make sinigang. Those games were rehearsals. We learned textures by touch, patience by peeling bracts one by one, and generosity by sharing imaginary bowls. Looking back, those

afternoons taught me that cooking is muscle memory too.

Across the archipelago, banana blossom carries regional signatures. In Cavite, its presence in home cooking connects land to table, a lineage thoughtfully chronicled by Ige Ramos in his book, Republic of Taste, The Untold Stories of Cavite Cuisine. The work reminds us that heritage foods survive because

The Rice grown that is closest to the skies— made possible by our Cordillera farmers. We give thanks.

families keep cooking them—not because they trend. Meanwhile, Mama Sita’s Homestyle Recipes Cookbook stands as a practical love note to tradition, offering guidance that is generous, clear, and grounded. These don’t fossilize recipes; they keep them breathing.

Morcon

Which is why banana blossom belongs so naturally to Love Month Araw ng mga Puso isn’t just about chocolates and

Ingredients 1 medium banana heart

Cooking oil to brush, for air frying

1 small onion, peeled and chopped

1 tablespoon oyster sauce salt and pepper to taste ½ cup breading mix

2 eggs, beaten

Directions

Using cleaned and stripped banana blossoms, In a bowl of cold salted water, place shredded banana heart and soak for about 15 to 20 minutes. Using hands, squeeze to release bitter sap. Rinse with cold water and with hands, squeeze well to dispel liquid. In a pan over medium heat, with about 1 tablespoon oil, saute by adding onions until softened.Add banana heart and cook, stirring occasionally, until cooked through. Add oyster sauce and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to simmer until liquid is mostly absorbed. Remove from pan, drain well, and allow to cool. In a bowl, combine sauteed banana heart, flour, and eggs. Mix well. Form into uniform-sized patties. Brush patties with cooking oil and air-fry using 350º setting for 15 minutes. Or deep fry in medium heat, heat about 2 tablespoons oil. Gently add banana heart mixture in a single layer and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden and firm. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels.

roses—it’s about care that lasts, foods that nourish families, stories that repeat at the table, and flavors that forgive beginners while rewarding patience. Banana blossom does all of that. It’s economical without feeling spare, nutritious without preaching, and traditional without being stuck in the past.

This Valentine’s, cook something that says I thought of you in a thousand quiet ways. Slice a banana blossom. Let it soften. Let it absorb. Let it remind you that love—like good food—is made by hand, over time, with heart.

To cook banana blossom is to practice patience, but also trust. Trust that what begins sharp will soften, that what looks spare will feed many, and that tradition has room to stretch. The recipes ahead are not declarations—they are invitations, shaped by memory, guided by instinct, and meant to return this heart to the table in as many ways as it deserves._§

Ingredients 1 banana blossom (puso ng saging)

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 tomato, chopped

1 chili pepper, chopped

1/2 cup of vinegar

1/4 cup of salt

1/4 cup of water

2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

1 tablespoon of fish sauce (optional)

1 tablespoon of calamansi juice (optional)

Directions To prepare the banana blossom, start by removing the outer layers of the blossom until you reach the tender core. Cut the core into small pieces and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. to help to remove any bitterness from the blossom.

Chop the onions, garlic, and tomatoes and sauté. Add the chopped banana blossom and chili pepper to the mortar and pestle. Then add the vinegar, salt, and water Mix the ingredients together until they are well combined. Add the vegetable oil and fish sauce (if using) to the mortar and pestle. Mix the ingredients together until they are well combined and tender.

Taste the kilawing puso ng saging and adjust the seasoning as needed.

9,

The Business of Expressing Love

chamber matters

by: JOEL ENRIQUEZ, President

Love, Minus the Neon: A Saner, Sweeter Valentine’s Season in Las Vegas

Every February, Las Vegas puts on its most convincing romance costume. The Strip glows red and pink, prix-fixe menus multiply like rabbits, and every hotel lobby seems to whisper the same promise: Spend more, love harder. It’s dazzling—and exhausting. For couples who actually live here, Valentine’s season can feel less like a celebration and more like a high-stakes performance with a very expensive dress code.

And then there’s the pressure. No one talks enough about the quiet stress this season puts on men who genuinely want to show love—to a wife, a girlfriend, a partner—without falling into the same tired loop of flowers, chocolates, and reservations made weeks too late. The desire is sincere; the script is stale. In a city built on spectacle, how do you say “I love you” without competing with LED screens and celebrity chefs?

The answer, paradoxically, is to step away from the obvious and lean into what makes Las Vegas livable, not just visitable.

Start with time, not tickets. One of the most meaningful Valentine gestures in this city is simply reclaiming unrushed time together. A weekday afternoon drive west toward Red Rock Canyon, windows down, no playlist pressure—just conversation—can feel more intimate than any velvet-rope experience. Pack coffee in a thermos, pull over when the light hits the sandstone just right, and let the city disappear for an hour. Romance doesn’t need a reservation; it needs attention.

Food, of course, is still part of love—but it doesn’t need white tablecloths or a sommelier hovering nearby. Some of the most romantic meals in Vegas happen at neighborhood spots you already love, or better yet, at home. Cooking together is wildly underrated as a Valentine ritual. It reveals patience, humor, and teamwork—qualities that actually sustain relationships long after February 14. Even something simple, done with intention, beats a $200 dinner eaten while checking the time.

For men especially, this season can feel like a test with invisible grading criteria. Be thoughtful, but not predictable. Be generous, but not wasteful. Be romantic, but original. The truth is, most partners aren’t asking for grand gestures—they’re asking to be seen. A handwritten note tucked into a book she loves. A framed photo from a trip you still talk about. An afternoon off taken intentionally, phones down. These are the things that linger.

Las Vegas offers plenty of low-key, high-heart options if you know where to look. An evening walk through the Arts District, popping into galleries without an agenda. A local jazz night or open mic where the room feels human-sized and the applause is sincere. A late-night dessert crawl instead of a full dinner—because sharing is its own kind of intimacy. Even something as unglamorous as a long drive under desert stars can feel cinematic when it’s just the two of you.

Valentine’s season is also a good moment to acknowledge that love evolves. What impressed in year one may feel hollow in year ten. The most meaningful celebrations honor where a relationship is now, not where ads insist it should be. Sometimes that means laughter over expectations gone wrong. Sometimes it means skipping February 14 altogether and choosing a quieter night when the city exhales.

In a town that sells fantasy by the square foot, opting out is a radical act. It says: our relationship doesn’t need an audience. It doesn’t need to be louder, shinier, or more expensive to be real. Love here—off-Strip, off-script—is built in kitchens, cars, side streets, and shared silences. So this Valentine’s season, let the neon do its thing without you. Choose meaning over markup. Choose presence over performance. In Las Vegas, that might just be the most romantic move of all.

other things you might want to do...

Remember, it doesn’t have to happen on the 14th!

Stop going to overpriced Strip restaurants! Patronize Filipino owned businesses.Discover how Truffles n Bacon have fusioned French toast and Philippine ube!

8872 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123

BELOW, this event happend a week before d-day, but wouldn’t it be great to take your date and learn a bit more about Philippine coffee?