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Volume 4 Number 30 LOS ANGELES SEPTEMBER 18, 2020 YOUR WINDOW TO THE FILIPINO-AMERICAN COMMUNITY YOUR WINDOW TO THE FILIPINO-AMERICAN COMMUNITY Trump rejects climate change role in CA wildfires Garcetti refutes SACRAMENTO – President Trump claim Donald Trump on Monday on wildfires asserted that climate change is not playing a role in the catastrophic COMMUNITY, Page 10 wildfires overtaking forests across the west, rebutting an official briefing him who pleaded for the President to listen to the science. “I don’t think science knows, California Gov. Gavin Newsom briefs President Doland Trump on the raging California fire. actually,” Trump said at a Monday briefing with officials in McClellan Park, California, with a laugh. Trump disputes CDC chief He told Wade Crowfoot, secretary of California’s Natural Resources Agency: “It’ll start getting cooler. You just watch.” on masks, vaccine timeline Suga named Crowfoot had warned the President of the dangers of Says vaccine new Japanese ignoring the science and putting prime minister “our head in the sand and thinking could be ready

that it’s all about vegetation US & WORLD, Page 12 management.” next month Climate experts tell CNN due to human-caused climate change, WASHINGTON — Openly temperature extremes are climbing contradicting the government’s top higher and the vegetation is drier, health experts, President Donald which affects the fire behavior. Trump predicted Wednesday Trump was also directly that a safe and effective vaccine confronted by the state’s against the coronavirus could Democratic governor, Gavin be ready as early as next month Newsom, who has been adamant and in mass distribution soon about climate change’s role in after, undermining the director of the wildfires, bluntly telling the the Centers for Disease Control President: “Climate change is OREGON WILDFIRE. This is what is left of a mobile home park and Prevention and calling him Bill gates on US real.” in Phoneix, Oregon following a massive wildfire that continues to “confused” in projecting a longer virus response: “We obviously feel very rage through the West Coast. Ten people have died and dozens are time frame. missing in the Oregon fire. Story on Page 9. Trump also disagreed with ‘Among the worst’ (See WILDFIRES, Page 7) Dr. Robert Redfield about the US & WORLD, Page 3 effectiveness of protective 44 nabbed UN rights chief to PH: Stop masks — which the president for jobless recommends but almost never policies that lead to killing wears — and said he’d telephoned claims fraud Redfield to tell him so. MANILA — The Duterte passed Anti-Terror Bill “with Earlier in the day, the CDC LOS ANGELES -- Police administration must “revoke the many problematic provisions,” sent all 50 states a “playbook” have arrested 44 people in Beverly policies” that have led to the which rights groups feared was for distribution of a vaccine to all Hills responsible for identity theft rising spate of deaths here in being used to justify the arbitrary Americans free of cost when one and EDD fraud totaling over $2.5 the Philippines, the UN’s High arrests and killings of human is proven safe and effective — million, said the Beverly Hills Commissioner on Human Rights rights defenders and activists. which is not yet the case. Police Department. (OHCHR) said on Tuesday at the “There is clearly an urgent Redfield told a congressional Fil-Am among Police add that a total opening of the 45th Human Rights need to revoke these policies that hearing that health care workers, Trump’s possible of 129 fraudulent California Council session in Geneva. continue to result in killings and first responders and others at high SCOTUS picks unemployment benefits debit High Commissioner Michele other human rights violations, to risk would get the vaccine first, cards have been recovered, and Bachelet made this remark as bring to justice the perpetrators, perhaps in January or even late COMMUNITY, Page 11 over $289,000 in U.S. currency she expressed concerns about and to halt the use of rhetoric this year, but it was unlikely to have been located on the suspects President Rodrigo Duterte’s inciting violence against people be available more broadly, again • Xi Jin-ping’s and seized. They’ve also found intention to reinstate the death who use or sell drugs,” Bachelet assuming approval, before late New World Order seven handguns either carried by penalty. In her statement, Bachelet said. spring or summer. the suspects or within their cars. specifically mentioned both the Bachelet said she was After Trump’s comments, • The economic (See COVID, Page 6) consequences (See FRAUD, Page 8) drug war as well as the recently (See RIGHTS, Page 9) of dictatorship 3 OPINION, Pages 4 & 5 FBI chief: Russians seeks to stop Biden win Page 6 Page 2 PHILIPPINE POST September 18, 2020 September 18, 2020 PHILIPPINE POST Page 3 Bill Gates: US virus response ‘shocking,’ ‘among the worst’ MICROSOFT co-founder COVID-19 cases in the U.S., Bill Gates described the Trump which outpaces other developing administration’s response to the countries like India (4.9 million coronavirus crisis as “shocking” cases), Brazil (4.3 million cases), and “unbelievable” that the United and Russia (1 million cases). States “would be among the worst The lockdowns accompanying in the world.” the pandemic have resulted in an “You know, this has been a economic recession, with millions mismanaged situation every step of Americans losing jobs. Nearly of the way,” the Microsoft co- 1 in 5 Americans are still worried A man stops on his bike along the Willamette River as smoke from founder and billionaire said in an about losing their job in the next wildfires partially obscures the Tilikum Crossing Bridge, Saturday, interview with STAT News. “It’s 12 months. shocking. It’s unbelievable — the According to a report by the Smoke from West Coast fact that we would be among the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation worst in the world.” Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates called Goalkeepers, which tracks Gates added that the variety of how much progress the world has fires reach East, Europe missteps by the U.S. government, Foundation said. “And science made towards the United Nations THE WILDFIRES that United States, according to the from testing to issuing guidance to should never be politicized. Sustainable Development Goals, have choked California’s skies National Weather Service. new hires, were baffling. Science is about getting at the COVID-19 has erased gains made with smoke in recent weeks — There is enough smoke to “The administration’s now truth. Science is what moves across the board in the last two littering cities with ash, wreaking partially shroud the sun in parts hired this Stanford guy who society forward.” decades. havoc on regional air quality of the East Coast, forecasters said. has no background at all just She added that the government “Consider vaccine coverage, and transforming the sun into an “Satellite images this morning because he agrees with their has also effectively “neutered” which is a good proxy measure ominous red orb — have now show smoke aloft moving over crackpot theories,” Gates said of the Centers for Disease Control for how health systems are stretched their sooty tendrils to much of the Northeast and Mid- Dr. Scott Atlas the President’s new & Prevention (CDC), which functioning,” the report stated. the other side of the country and Atlantic,” the weather service’s coronavirus advisor. was “set up originally to give “Our data partner, the Institute beyond. Baltimore-Washington office Melinda Gates, in a separate for Health Metrics and Evaluation tweeted Tuesday morning. “This sound medical advice,” rendering Plumes from deadly and smoke is obscuring the sun, and interview with Axios, concurred it unable to do its job, hence (IHME), found that in 2020, record-breaking fires burning will keep temperatures a few with her husband’s opinion. compounding the COVID-19 coverage is dropping to levels last up and down the West Coast are degrees cooler today than what “We’ve had terrible leadership response. seen in the 1990s. In other words, being caught in the atmospheric would be observed if the smoke on this issue, quite frankly,” the co- There are currently more we’ve been set back about 25 jet stream and carried across the was not present.” chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates than than 6.5 million confirmed years in about 25 weeks.”

distressed small businesses. suffering the economic effects NJ attorney charged with PPP loan fraud Choi allegedly used the resulting from the COVID-19 fraudulently obtained PPP loan pandemic. One source of relief NEWARK, N.J. – A Bergen to make his initial appearance by tax records, and falsified a driver’s proceeds to pay for numerous provided by the CARES Act is County, New Jersey, attorney videoconference today before license on the applications. personal expenses, including to the authorization of up to $349 was arrested today and charged U.S. Magistrate Judge James B. Choi allegedly falsely buy, among other things, a nearly billion in forgivable loans to small with fraudulently obtaining Clark III. represented to the lenders that $1 million home in Cresskill, New businesses for job retention and approximately $9 million in According to documents filed the companies controlled by Jersey, to fund approximately certain other expenses through Paycheck Protection Program in this case and statements made him had hundreds of employees $30,000 in remodeling and other the PPP. In April 2020, Congress (PPP) loans, U.S. Attorney Craig in court: and paid over $3 million in improvements, and to invest authorized over $300 billion in Carpenito and Acting Assistant Choi allegedly submitted three monthly wages. Based on Choi’s millions more in the stock market additional PPP funding. Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt fraudulent PPP loan applications alleged misrepresentations, each through an account held in the The PPP allows qualifying of the Justice Department’s to three different lenders on behalf lender funded each of the three name of his spouse. small businesses and other Criminal Division, announced. of three different businesses that businesses with an approximately The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, organizations to receive loans Jae H. Choi, 48, of Cliffside purportedly provided educational $3 million PPP loan. As a result, and Economic Security (CARES) with a maturity of two years Park, New Jersey, is charged services. The complaint also the complaint alleges that Choi Act is a federal law enacted March and an interest rate of 1 percent. by complaint with three counts alleges that Choi fabricated received a total of nearly $9 29. It is designed to provide Businesses must use PPP loan of bank fraud and one count of the existence of hundreds of million in federal COVID-19 emergency financial assistance proceeds for payroll costs, interest money laundering. He is expected employees, manipulated bank and emergency relief funds meant for to millions of Americans who are on mortgages, rent and utilities. Page PHILIPPINE POST September 18, 2020 VIEWS September 18, 2020 PHILIPPINE POST PagePage 4 4 Pax Sinica: Xi’s New World Order ON FEBRUARY 22, 2017, a better idea; he wanted China to Chinese president Xi Jinping dominate the vast Pacific Ocean vowed for the first time that by 2040. China should take the lead in Today, the Chinese Navy has shaping the “new world order” 335 ships compared to the U.S.’s and safeguarding international 296 ships. However, the U.S. security. Xi’s approach was Navy is the most fearsome navy dubbed the “Two Guides” policy. ever assembled. With 11 nuclear Immediately, this puts him in stark supercarriers and 71 nuclear contrast to U.S. President Donald from Japan all the way to Vietnam submarines, the U.S. Navy is Trump’s “America First” policy. by way of Taiwan, Philippines, by far the most powerful navy Since taking over the Borneo, and Malaysia. The PLA in the world. And this is what’s presidency in November 2012, Navy must be ready to challenge keeping the Chinese navy from Xi’s “Chinese Dream” of US domination over the Western venturing beyond the South China reviving Imperial China that has Pacific and the Indian Ocean in Sea, where it claimed 80% as maintained Chinese hegemony in 2040. Chinese territory based on the GUEST EDITORIAL Asia during the reign of the Ming Currently, China has seven nine-dash line that China marks Dynasty. “The great revival of nuclear-powered submarines. as the demarcation, which is being the Chinese nation is the greatest The U.S. has 71 nuclear-powered contested by the Philippines, Chinese Dream,” Xi said before submarines including 14 Ohio- Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Simon-pure taking office in 2012. class ballistic missile submarines Brunei. The Ming Dynasty, also known with the capability of wiping One Belt, One Road THERE’S A RASH of Red-tagging of activists in the public and as the “Great Ming,” ruled China out a medium-size nation with While China doesn’t have the private sectors. It’s not an entirely new phenomenon in this country from 1368 to 1644 following the 100 Trident II D-5 missiles. firepower to kick the U.S. out that is marked by the longest-running insurgency in the world, collapse of the Mongol-led Yuan of the South China Sea, China and where, in the battle for hearts and minds, government officials dynasty. The Ming dynasty was is rapidly expanding its global blame public discontent over a crippling impoverishment on those the last imperial dynasty of China With the U.S. reach economically. With it’s who call it as it is and seek to banish the injustice and inequality ruled by Han Chinese. retreating One Belt, One Road (OBOR) that have long allowed it to fester. The killing of activists, young During the Ming dynasty, the from its global Initiative and soft-power strategy, and old, whether in urban and rural areas, illustrates the dreadful Chinese tributary system was responsibilities, China is winning friends all over ends Red-tagging can lead to. institutionalized, which illustrated the world, particularly in Africa, But the old trick of branding activists as “commies” has reached the great political power of China China is ready to Middle East, South Asia, and a novel point, leading to the suspension on Sept. 9 of deliberations in at the time. The seven maritime pick up the slack. South East Asia. the House of Representatives on the 2021 budget of the Presidential expeditions (1405-1433) led by In 2017, the Chinese built a Communications Operations Office. The PCOO’s proposed budget Zheng He projected the imperial military support base in Djibouti. of P1.59 billion was thus put on hold by the House appropriations power of the Ming dynasty across Indeed, the only thing that’s It is China’s first overseas military committee, which had earlier briskly approved those of other Southeast Asia, South Asia, the stopping China from pursuing base. China didn’t waste time agencies, sometimes in the course of one hearing. Middle East, and East Africa. its imperialistic ambitions is deploying 10,000 troops. It What snagged the budget proceedings was Communications In 1525 the government America’s Trident II D-5 missiles. is anticipated that China will Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy’s supposed use of her position and ordered the destruction of all There are 24 of these missiles with continue building overseas government resources in tagging members of the Makabayan bloc oceangoing ships. The greatest a range of 4,000 nautical miles in military bases. Pakistan, Sri in the House as “high-ranking members” of the Communist Party navy in history, which once had each Ohio-class submarine for a Lanka, and Kenya are expected to of the Philippines, its armed wing the New People’s Army, and its 3,500 ships (the U.S. Navy today total of 540 missiles. be next in China’s sights. political arm the National Democratic Front. has only 296), was gone.” For the It is interesting to note that In April 2019, 37 foreign heads Badoy, also the spokesperson of the National Task Force to next five centuries, China never during the summit meeting of state – mostly from Africa End Local Communist Armed Conflict, made the accusation in ventured out beyond its shores. between Chinese President Xi – came to Beijing to take part Facebook posts although she offered no evidence to back it; she China’s naval strategy Jinping and U.S. President Barack in the second summit hosted likewise called on the representatives of the party-list groups In 1982, Admiral Liu Huaqing, Obama in California June 2013, Xi by President Xi. Some leaders ACT Teachers, Bayan Muna, Gabriela, and Kabataan to drop the the former commander of the told the media that he and Obama came with expectations to sign supposed pretense of being lawmakers and admit to membership People’s Liberation Army (PLA) were meeting “to chart the future huge infrastructure deals. Others in the CPP-NPA-NDF. Navy and the mastermind of of China-US relations and draw asked for debt relief. All of these Speaking at the hearing, Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate and China’s modern naval strategy, a blueprint for this relationship.” projects are under the OBOR ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro took Badoy to task for her Red- said that it would be necessary Then he added: “The vast Pacific Initiative. tagging, warned that it was exposing them and their colleagues as for China to control the First and Ocean has enough space for two Exactly, what is OBOR? It well as their families to clear and present danger, and demanded Second Island Chains by 2010 and large countries like the United is China’s grand plan for global to know why an unelected official was behaving in such a manner 2020. The First Island Chain runs States and China.” But Xi had (See DIAZ, Page 8) on the back of public funds. They went on to call for a suspension of the budget deliberations; hearing no objection, the committee chair, ACT-CIS Rep. Eric Yap, ruled accordingly. Modernity and its enemies Does it seem like Communications Secretary Martin Andanar is caught between the devil and the deep blue sea? Quite. At the IN THOSE crucial days in mid- community transmission. December last year — when the By Randy David There is a continuing debate hearing, per reports, Andanar asked that the suspension of the Inquirer.net budget proceedings be reconsidered, but was ignored. He tried first cases of the novel coronavirus on what difference it would have to put some distance between the PCOO and Badoy, pointing out began appearing in Wuhan, China made if the news of the Wuhan that her statements were posted on her Facebook account and — the protocol followed by the confirm the outbreak in Wuhan. outbreak had been reported first constituted, not the stand of her office, but her personal opinion hospital authorities required them On Jan. 1, the authorities shut to the World Health Organization — remarks that couldn’t have pleased his undersecretary for new to immediately report the matter to down the Wuhan live animal rather than to the local Party media and development, who likes to project herself as the avatar the local Communist Party bureau market, where the virus was officials, who took time to filter it. of correctness. while keeping the information in believed to have originated. A The Chinese national government In August 2018, for example, Badoy sought to douse the fire lit by the strictest confidence. few days later, they imposed a strongly rejected any suggestion then Assistant Communications Secretary Mocha Uson through the Dr. Li Wenliang, one of the lockdown on the whole city. But, that it deliberately concealed latter’s — laughable if it weren’t so crass — “pepe-dede” push for first doctors to notice the strange at around the same time, millions crucial information about the federalism. Be circumspect, Badoy in effect enjoined PCOO officers pneumonia among his patients of Chinese travelers on holiday virus, even as it acknowledged the and staff: “Please be mindful of the content you post or share on (and by whom he unknowingly were already headed to various possibility that grievous mistakes your personal social media accounts, as well as other publications got infected), felt compelled to destinations in China and abroad. might have been committed at the and press releases your office may publish.” share what he was seeing with local level. his former classmates in medical The point being made here is (See EDITORIAL, Page 8) school. For this, he was arrested, The world quite simple: In the modern world forced to confess to a “crime,” remains we live in, disease outbreaks and severely reprimanded for anywhere belong, in the first spreading rumors and causing hopelessly instance, to medical science and alarm. But, his timely warnings divided into to the world body that has been prompted his colleagues to take nation-states. designated to monitor and prevent extra precautions, and saved not such outbreaks from becoming a a few lives. pandemic. It is in these specialized Cerritos, CA 90703 Tel. (562) 469-8030 He himself later died from the Indeed, the first novel communities where these issues disease. Praised on social media coronavirus cases to be reported must be studied, openly discussed, for his extraordinary courage and in the Philippines in late January and debated — free from the sense of duty, Dr. Li was, upon his were of three Chinese tourists from distortions of political, economic, (See EDITORIAL, Page 6) VAL G. ABELGAS Publisher and Editor-in-Chief death, recognized and hailed as a Wuhan. One of them died from the and other interests. When the hero by the Chinese government. disease at the San Lazaro Hospital latter are allowed to interfere in The first impulse of the local in Manila. It was clear that they the flow of scientific information, The Philippine Post is a weekly publication of Philippine Post Publishing Party officials had been to sit had brought the infection with the consequences are usually circulated in Southern California. Articles published in this paper do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the on the information, fearful of them. Whether they got it directly disastrous. publisher. Letters, press and photo releases are welcome but are subject to edito- incurring the ire of their superiors from the Wuhan wet market, or Governments may cite rial discretion. E-mail: [email protected]; website: www.philpostblog. should the reports turn out to indirectly from somebody who scientific evidence to justify public wordpress.com be premature. It took about two did, was not known at that point. policy, and business corporations more weeks before the Chinese Filipino doctors wished that the may use scientific discoveries to government would officially virus had not yet spread through (See MODERNITY, Page 6) September 18, 2020 PHILIPPINE POST Page 5 ‘Straightforward’ link between climate and California’s fires By John Schwartz CALIFORNIA is on fire. Almost 2.5 million acres of land have burned there so far this year — nearly 20 times what had burned at this time last year — and the wildfire season is far from over. Former President Ferdinand E. Marcos That means many scientists in the state aren’t just studying their field; many of them are living it. The economic When I got in touch with Nina S. Oakley on Tuesday for an article about the connections The Creek Fire in Madera County, California. consequences between climate change and California’s wildfires, she was in attribution analysis, but the links In California’s fields where farm of dictatorship her car, driving toward the ocean. between wildfires and a warming laborers are suffering under the Dr. Oakley, a research planet, especially in California burdens of punishing heat and By Tony La Vina/ Manila Standard scientist at the Center for Western are “straightforward,” said Park rising levels of wildfire smoke, as Weather and Water Extremes Williams, a bioclimatologist at well as the coronavirus pandemic. ONE OF THE MANY myths Martial law did not just “fall at the Scripps Institution of Columbia University’s Lamont- And as the wildfire season peddled by Marcos apologists and from the skies,” according to Oceanography, was driving with Doherty Earth Observatory. continues, California is dealing martial law fans is that the Marcos him. It represented the logical her husband, Benjamin Hatchett, “Warmer temperatures dry the with depleted ranks of inmate dictatorial rule brought about development of the historical a climatologist, away from their fuels, and all you need from there firefighters. a booming economy and the forces that had birthed and shaped home in Santa Rosa, Calif., where is a spark.” This year’s fire season in country was enjoying its halcyon the country’s rent-seeking system. choking smoke from wildfires The effects of global warming California is far from over, and days contrary to what economic One other interesting aspect and power failures had made it on wildfires are varied. Want to you could say the same for the experts tell us. They also claim of the Marcos rule is presented impossible to work. learn more about how people live state’s fire crisis. Dr. Williams that the declaration of martial by Victor Manarang in his essay For these climate scientists, in fire-prone areas and protect published a paper last year that law was a historical necessity, a “Marcos’s Dark Legacy to the and, increasingly, for all of us, themselves? How about the pointed to the drying effects of matter of survival for the nation. Nation” where he recounts their discipline is anything but increasing problems for people human-induced warming in much In his essay entitled “The his experiences as a long-time academic. The links between who need to insure their homes of the West. It concluded that the political economy under martial executive of Ayala Corporation, one climate change and some extreme in areas where fires are likely, effects on wildfire activity “over law” which is now part of the of the preeminent conglomerates weather phenomena can be hard to or the growing support among the next few decades will likely be compilation of writings Not On in the country then and now. distinguish from natural weather Americans for tough limits on larger than the observed influence Our Watch by former members Well researched and variability without extensive building in fire and flood zones? thus far.” of the League of Editors for a documented treatises have been Democratic Society (LEADS), published on how the regime and Calixto V. Chikiamco, former its allies concentrated control of the editor in chief of The Lasallian Philippine’s major export products, It’s been 6 months since Covid and a member of the Samahang such as sugar and coconut, in their Demokratikong Kabataan (SDK)- own hands then manipulated changed our lives completely La Salle Chapter during his the prices of those commodities activist days, dispelled one of to levels that encouraged other By Zachary B. Wolf the persistent fallacies about countries to produce them (or CNN the declaration of martial law, their substitutes) more efficiently, ie. that it was declared to stamp and eventually displace us in SIX MONTHS ago is when it out Communist rebellion. the world markets, leading to really hit that Covid was going to For him, martial law was the irreparable collapse of entire upset everything. not a historical accident but Philippine industries, he wrote. Here’s what we wrote back in merely a logical extension of a Manarang worked with the March: politico-economic system based Ayala Group for a long time, If you thought coronavirus was on rent-seeking elite in order initially at corporate planning at no big deal or if you thought it was to monopolize the economic Ayala Corporation and later at going to go away, wake up. favors emanating from the State. project management. He learned Your life is about to change. It represented the response of a a lot about business management, Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of faction of the rent-seeking elite to but also snippets about corporate the National Institute of Allergy the grave political and economic survival and opportunism in the and Infectious Diseases, issued started; restaurants were still open death for a long time, maybe crisis into which the country was crisis atmosphere of martial law. a disturbing warning during a everywhere, people were going for the rest of the history of this plunged after the presidential According to him executive White House briefing Tuesday: to school and to work every day. country. election of 1969, he added. lunchroom talk included how Americans everywhere need to The halt to normal life was Nightmares become normal Under a compliant members of the owning family change the way they live their sudden, and it was unprecedented. Not in nightmares would we Central Bank, which was not sought to protect themselves as lives. Right now. Remember when we thought it have thought six months ago that institutionally independent from they realized that Marcos and his “We would like the country to would be for a couple of weeks? nearly 1 million people would the Executive at that time, Marcos cronies were grabbing Philippine realize that as a nation, we can’t In another six months, we’ll have died from Covid worldwide printed money. The inevitable business groups left and right. be doing the kinds of things we have lived through an election or that nearly 200,000 of them result after the election was They brought in very influential were doing a few months ago. It and an inauguration. We don’t yet would be Americans. rampant inflation and another strategic partners as stockholders. doesn’t matter if you’re in a state know whether things will be back And another 200,000 foreign exchange crisis. The The strategy must have that has no cases or one case,” to anything like normal for most Americans could be dead by the resulting economic crisis worked because neither of the Fauci said. Americans by then. end of the year. produced tremendous hardship. Ayala flagships was threatened We really had no idea -- and In the past few days, we’ve Nor did we imagine that the Monopolies, which dominated during the Marcos regime. no way to imagine -- how much learned that President Donald US economy would be teetering, the economy, simply passed Some after Marcos was ousted things would change. Back then, Trump was knowingly misleading even after a bipartisan agreement on the crisis to the public by in 1986, President Corazon China was copping to very few everyone about the severity of the to spend trillions on relief. Or way of even higher prices. Aquino sequestered the television deaths. There were just a few virus to maintain calm. We’ll be that 30 million people would be Unemployment and inflation (See DICTATORSHIP, Page 7) hundred known cases in the US. studying the failure of government out of work. reached more than 20 percent. Stay-at-home orders hadn’t yet leadership that allowed so much (See COVID, Page 16) In the Philippines, the 1970s became known as the era of UNTOG By Sluggo Rigor “debt-driven growth.” Marcos style crony capitalism became the dominant feature of the economy. The internal dynamics of a rent-seeking system, where control of the State produced enormous economic privilege, led him to that decision. Martial law eliminated political competition and expanded the monopolistic privileges of his faction, Chikiamco wrote. According to him, the “law of motion” then of the country’s rent seeking system led to the imposition of martial law. Page PHILIPPINE POST September 18, 2020 NEWS September 18, 2020 PHILIPPINE POST Page 6 Carpio joins Del Rosario, Morales in ICC rap vs China MANILA — Retired Supreme information to the ICC within the Del Rosario stressed that undertook island-building Philippine Sea. Court Senior Associate Justice week. Beijing’s destructive reclamation activities in the West Philippine The former ombudsman said Antonio Carpio will be joining “Justice Carpio’s unparalleled and artificial island-building in Sea. they are pursuing the case to former Foreign Affairs Secretary wisdom and expertise in the South Subi Reef is within the territorial “ICC will now have the basis demand accountability from Albert del Rosario and former China Sea issue have raised our sea of Pag-asa Island, which to proceed with our case against China on behalf of the Filipinos Ombudsman Conchita Carpio- confidence in the case and will is under the jurisdiction of the China’s leadership,” Del Rosario affected by Beijing’s seizure of Morales in their complaint against surely bolster our chances in the municipality of Kalayaan in said. land and waters, as well as near- China before the International ICC,” Del Rosario said. Palawan province. “These facts are straightforward permanent destruction of marine Criminal Court (ICC). According to Del Rosario, they China’s blockade of the because they are based on publicly environment in the area. Del Rosario confirmed this demonstrated in their response to territorial sea of Scarborough or available evidence and a number “While the Duterte latest development at a virtual the ICC that the alleged crimes of Panatag Shoal off also affected of them have been judicially administration remains unwilling to confront China’s crimes against forum organized by Stratbase Chinese President Xi Jinping and the livelihoods Filipino fishermen vetted in the South China Sea the Filipinos, we are not entirely ADR Institute on Wednesday. other Chinese officials occurred living along the coast of Luzon. arbitration,” he added. helpless in seeking ways to speak The former DFA chief said in Philippine territorial sea, The former top diplomat also Morales, meanwhile, urged the and act against the criminal ctions they will be submitting additional particularly the coast of Luzon. pointed out that hundreds of Filipino people to unite against of the Chinese government,” Chinese militia vessels located Chinese incursions in the West Morales said. circling Pag-asa Island’s vicinity from 2018 to 2019 were meant to harass Filipinos living on the island. Pag-asa Island is one of the largest features of the Spratly Islannds. The ramming of Filipino fishing boat GemVer near Recto Bank last year also falls within ICC jurisdiction as the Chinese crime was committed against a Philippine-flagged vessel, Del Rosario added. Del Rosario and Morales In this July 12, 2019 photo, former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio also added executives of state- Morales, former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and owned China Communications retired Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio attend a forum Construction Company, which FBI chief Christopher Wray testifies before a House homeland on the third anniversary of the Philippines’ arbitral victory in the is also involved in the Sangley security committee hearing in Washington D.C. South China Sea. airport project, as its subsidiaries Russia seeks to stop Biden COVID: Trump disputes health officials (From Page 1) from winning - FBI chief U.S. states, territories and some control over the CDC’s scientific CDC officials said Wednesday big cities. Adding to logistical publications on COVID-19, WASHINGTON -- Russia “Russia continues to try to night that the director had thought complications, vaccines likely which he contended were hurting is seeking to hurt Democrat Joe influence our elections, primarily he was answering a question will have to be given in two doses the Trump administration. Biden’s presidential campaign through what we call malign about when vaccination of all spaced weeks apart and will have Redfield said the “scientific through social media and foreign influence,” Wray said. Americans might be completed. to be refrigerated. integrity” of his agency’s reports influence operations, FBI Director It’s an assessment sharply at odds Redfield, masked at times in a Redfield said states are not “has not been compromised and Christopher Wray warned with that of President Donald Senate hearing room, also spoke ready to deal with the demand for it will not be compromised under Thursday. Trump, who still dismisses as a emphatically of the importance such a distribution and some $6 my watch.” He also rejected Moscow is carrying out hoax the intelligence community’s of everyone wearing protective billion in new funding would be questions about whether the efforts to sow discord in the finding that Russia worked to help masks to stop the pandemic, needed to get the nation prepared. CDC’s timeline for states to be U.S. “primarily to denigrate him win the White House in 2016. which has killed nearly 200,000 Unswayed, Trump said, “We’re ready for a vaccine by Nov. 1 was Vice President Biden and what U.S. national security agencies Americans. ready to move, and I think it will politically motivated. the Russians see as an anti- haven’t yet seen Russia trying to He floated the possibility that be full distribution.” “The worst thing that could Russia establishment,” Wray break into election infrastructure a vaccine might be 70% effective Redfield said any vaccine happen is if we have a vaccine told lawmakers during a House as it did in 2016 when it hacked in inducing immunity, and said, “I available in November or delivered and we’re still not ready Homeland Security Committee voting databases, Wray said. might even go so far as to say that December would be in “very to distribute,” Redfield told Senate hearing on threats to the nation. this face mask is more guaranteed limited supply,” and reserved for lawmakers. “There was absolutely to protect me against COVID than first responders and people most no political thinking about it.” when I take a COVID vaccine.” vulnerable to COVID-19. The Sen. Patty Murray of MODERNITY: Its enemies Trump would have none of that shot wouldn’t be broadly available Washington, the committee’s (From Page 4) scientific calling. from the CDC director. until the spring or summer 2021, top Democrat, said political create profitable enterprises. But, In sociology, the term used “Vaccine is much more he estimated. interference from HHS had science best fulfills its function is “functional differentiation.” effective than the mask,” he The entire vaccine enterprise damaged public trust in the in society when its operational As societies evolve and become declared. faces continued public skepticism. government’s health information. autonomy is respected, meaning, more complex, functional As for vaccinating Americans, Only about half of Americans “The Trump administration its truths are not dictated by differentiation increasingly Trump said Wednesday, “We said they’d get vaccinated in an needs to leave the science to the politics, economics, religion, etc. takes precedence over traditional think we can start sometime in Associated Press-NORC poll scientists immediately,” Murray It is this same issue that is forms of differentiation like October.” One of his recently taken in May. Since then, questions said. involved in the race to produce segmentation and stratification. added advisers, Dr. Scott Atlas, have only mounted about whether Democratic presidential a vaccine against COVID-19. A What we call modernity is said as many as 700 million doses the government is trying to rush nominee Joe Biden said while lot of money is being poured by none other than the primacy of could be available by the end of treatments and vaccines to help campaigning that he trusts what governments and private investors functional differentiation. March. Trump’s reelection chances. scientists say about a potential alike in the race to create a safe Today, we are in the midst of Trump made the prediction The Health and Human vaccine — but not Trump. and effective vaccine. We can’t an era when some of the most even though the vaccine is still Services Department announced Biden has said he would take help noticing that governments fundamental social functions— being tested in human subjects, Wednesday that political a vaccine “tomorrow” if it were seem to treat the matter as an science, education, mass media, and some health experts have appointee Michael Caputo available but he would want to extension of great state rivalry, a the economy, art, and, to some said they believe a safe and highly would take a leave of absence “see what the scientists said” first. test of political superiority in the extent, law and religion—are As for the planned vaccine effective vaccine is several months to “focus on his health and the global stage. Big pharmaceutical increasingly differentiated at the campaign, Redfield said his companies, on the other hand, see away, if not much longer. well-being of his family.” The agency will be working with state global level. But not so in the CDC sent a planning news followed revelations that health officials to implement the the vaccine not only as a badge field of politics, where a world document on Wednesday to Caputo had tried to gain editorial preparations in coming days. of scientific achievement, but, government is a distant dream. more importantly, of corporate Nations are probably the profitability and prestige. last expressions of segmented One can thus imagine the differentiation, the way families, kind of pressure that is applied clans, and ethnic loyalties were on the scientists and specialists in more traditional societies. The who are involved in this complex world remains hopelessly divided undertaking. They must work fast into nation-states. so the benefits from the vaccine We see this in the way can immediately be shared with governments in the world’s countries eager to reopen their most powerful countries economies. But, they must tread instrumentalize their scientific very carefully, lest they reap the communities and economic costly consequences of releasing organizations by subjecting them a harmful product. As hard as it to the necessities of state power. may be, they must ignore political It is a dangerous game they are and economic considerations if playing. they are to remain faithful to their We must all beware. September 18, 2020 PHILIPPINE POST Page 7 Hontiveros says gov’t lost P1B in oveprices PPE sets MANILA — Senator Risa Ltd., Chushen Company Ltd., Hontiveros on Wednesday flagged Pacific Field (Hong Kong) Ltd., the government’s purchase of and Shanghai Puheng Medical five million personal protective Equipment Co. Ltd. equipment (PPE) sets, mostly “In a time when local companies from Chinese firms, which she are struggling, this is a big insult said were allegedly overpriced to them that foreign companies are by P1 billion. being awarded supply contracts Deputy Attorney General Jeffery A Rosen speaks during a Justice In a statement, Hontiveros said by the government,” she said in Department’s news conference to announce charges in China- seven of the 11 contracts for PPE Filipino. related intrusion campaigns, in Washington D.C., U.S., September sets were awarded to China-based Priced at 1,700 each, the 16, 2020. companies by the Department cheapest PPE sets the DBM of Budget and Management- had procured from April to May Procurement Service (PS-DBM) were sourced from Philippine- US charges seven in from April to May this year. Sen. Risa Hontiveros based firm Hafid N’ Erasmus “Why are we prioritizing PPEs, especially during a time Corporation, according to the Chinese hacking effort foreign companies instead of when an increasing number of senator. local ones? To make matters our health workers were dying But she lamented that only WASHINGTON – The of State Security and would be worse, in these 11 procurements because of inadequate protection,” 30,000 units were acquired from U.S. Justice Department said protected “unless something very we analyzed, it appears that the Hontiveros said. the said company while more on Wednesday it has charged big happens.” PPE prices were overpriced by at “Crucially, the one billion PPE sets from foreign firms were five Chinese residents and two “No responsible government least P200 per unit or P1 billion in pesos could have also been bought. Malaysian businessmen in a knowingly shelters cyber total,” the senator said. allocated to increase the salaries She said one million sets for wide-ranging hacking effort criminals that target victims She said that the Philippine of our health workers,” she added. P1,898 per unit and an additional that encompassed targets from worldwide in acts of rank theft,” General Hospital had estimated She also questioned why 250,000 sets for P2,000 each were videogames to pro-democracy Rosen said. that PPE sets range from China-based companies were procured from Xuzhou; 588,000 activists. The Chinese Embassy in P1,200-P1,500. The price of the supposedly prioritized in the sets for P1979.56 per unit from Federal prosecutors said Washington did not immediately PPE sets procured by the PS- procurement of PPE sets. Chushen; 200,000 sets for PP1923 the Chinese nationals had been return an email seeking comment. DBM range from P1,700-P2,000, per unit from Shanghai Puheng; charged with hacking more than Beijing has repeatedly denied She said that of the five some 42,000 sets for P1980.50 per she pointed out. million PPE sets, almost three 100 companies in the United responsibility for hacking in unit and an additional 800,000 sets States and abroad, including the face of a mounting pile of “Isang bilyon ang nawala sa million were outsourced from for P1923 per unit were bought kaban ng bayan. (P1 billion was Chinese companies, including software development companies, indictments from U.S. authorities. from Wen Hua; and 28,000 sets computer manufacturers, Along with the alleged hackers, lost) This is one billion pesos Xuzhou Const. Machinery Group, for P1,900 per unit from Pacific that could have gone to more Wen Hua Dev’t Industrial Co., Field. telecommunications providers, U.S. prosecutors also indicted two social media companies, gaming Malaysian businessmen, Wong firms, nonprofits, universities, Ong Hua, 46, and Ling Yang WILDFIRES: Trump says not climate change think-tanks as well as foreign Ching, 32, who were charged with (From Page 1) governments and politicians and conspiring with two of the digital strongly the hots are getting civil society figures in Hong spies to profit from computer hotter,” Newsom said. “The dries Kong. intrusions targeting videogame are getting drier. When we’re U.S. officials stopped short companies in the United States, having heat domes, the likes of of alleging the hackers were France, Japan, Singapore and which we’ve never seen in our working on behalf of Beijing, but South Korea. history.” in a statement Deputy Attorney The Justice Department said “We come from a perspective, General Jeffrey Rosen expressed the pair operated through a humbly, where the science is in, exasperation with Chinese Malaysian firm called SEA Gamer and observed evidence is self- authorities, saying they were – at Mall, an online gaming store. evident that climate change is real the very least – turning a blind eye SEA Gamer said in a statement and that is exacerbating this,” the to cyber-espionage. it was aware of the allegations governor added. “We know the Chinese against their employees but denied Newsom told Trump to “please authorities to be at least as able that the company was involved in respect -- and I know you do -- the as the law enforcement authorities wrongdoing. difference of opinion out here as here and in likeminded states to “Without compromising the A solitary fireman surveys the Bobcat Fire at the Los Angeles it relates to this fundamental issue enforce laws against computer integrity of any ongoing legal National Forest. on the issue of climate change.” intrusions,” Rosen said. “But they process, suffice to say that the “Absolutely,” Trump speck.” blazes. India, China and Russia choose not to.” company has never engaged responded. But when it comes to were all signatories. He further alleged that one in any illegal activity,” it said, Trump and California officials greenhouse gas emissions, the As Trump toured the West of the Chinese defendants had adding that it was cooperating did agree that continued federal US doesn’t represent a “speck.” coast on Monday, Joe Biden boasted to a colleague that he was with authorities. assistance with forest management While US emissions declined in delivered a speech in Delaware “very close” to China’s Ministry was necessary. 2019,the US is still the world’s warning of the devastating effects Just before his briefing, Trump second largest contributor of of climate change, calling the was asked by a reporter what role plant-warming gases. President “climate denier” and a climate change was playing in “When you get into climate “climate arsonist.” He also said the fires. change, well, is India gonna that if Trump is given another “Well, I think this is more of a change its ways? And is China term in office, it would do untold management situation. If you look gonna change its ways? And damage to the country. at other countries, if you go to Russia? Is Russia gonna change Until this past weekend, the other countries in Europe, Austria, its ways?” Trump asked. President had remained largely Finland ... they’re forest nations. As recently as Saturday, the silent on the wildfires, which have They’re in forests and they don’t President has celebrated his charred millions of acres of land have problems like this,” the decision to pull the US out of the in California, triggered Oregon President responded. Paris Climate Accord early on in officials to prepare for a potential The President also suggested his administration. “mass fatality incident,” and that other nations need to take The global agreement was created apocalyptic orange skies responsibility for their levels meant to address climate change and clouds raining ash that have of pollution more than the US, -- precisely the issue experts say drifted across cities throughout because the US is “just a small is playing a role in the massive the West Coast. DICTATORSHIP: Its economic consequences (From Page 5) regime with eagerness, impelled a passage from Karl Marx’s “The and radio stations. Maranang as they were with the desire to eighteenth Brumier of Napolen became part of a small team take advantage of the regime’s Bonaparte” on why the memories of volunteers who temporarily largesse; many more, like the of the past still matter even up to took over the management of contributors in this book, engaged the present. Thus, he quotes “Men these broadcast networks. He in silent or active protests against make their own history, but they was designated comptroller. the Marcos tyrannical rule and the do not make it as they please; As is shown, different people injustices of his regime. These are they do not make it under self- reacted differently to the ferment the patriots who love their country selected circumstances, but under of those days. While many more than themselves; who would circumstances existing already, accepted their lot with a sense rather put their lives on the line given and transmitted from the of fatalism and surrender, others rather than accept their fate sitting past. The tradition of all dead still who benefited politically down, like lambs to the slaughter. generations weighs like a nightmare or economically, embraced the In his essay, Chikiamco quoted on the brains of the living.” Page 8 PHILIPPINE POST September 20, 2019 NEWS September 18, 2020 PHILIPPINE POST Page 8 US scientists raise La Nina alert MANILA — US climate scientists have raised the La Niña alert, bringing hope of rains coming to replenish the stock in Angat Dam and saving Metro Manila from a water crisis. La Niña is a weather phenomenon that causes very dry conditions in the eastern Pacific — the western coast of US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton on his way to the the Americas — but very wet airport after being ordered deported. conditions in the west, including the areas around the Philippines. It is rainy season in the Pemberton to undergo Philippines, but there has been A nearly empty Angat Dam during the last La Nina. little rain in recent weeks and the US court martial hot weather has been drying up on going down. Metro supply steady Angat Dam in Bulacan province, Using data for August, the two When the water level at Angat proceedings, Roque says which supplies the water needs climate centers declared that La falls below the rule curve, the first MANILA — American and if he is still qualified to of Metro Manila and surrounding Niña conditions were prevailing to get its supply reduced is the authorities have promised that US remain in service,” he added. provinces. and were 75 percent likely to 218-megawatt Angat hydropower Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton Pemberton, who was convicted The weather bureau Philippine continue through the Northern plant. will continue to face court for the 2014 killing of Filipino Atmospheric, Geological Hemisphere winter. Next to go is the water supply martial proceedings in the US, transgender Jennifer Laude, was and Astronomical Services “In August, La Niña conditions for irrigating farms in the region. Malacañang said Monday. deported on Sunday after he Administration (Pagasa) reported were present, with below- For September, the National “There was a promise made by was granted pardon by President the Angat water level as 176.65 average sea surface temperatures Water Resources Board has set American authorities along with Rodrigo Duterte. meters above sea level (masl) on extending across the central and the supply for use of the two a representative from the Marine Even before he was granted Monday, lower than the dam’s eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean,” Metro Manila water distributors— corps,” Presidential Spokesman pardon, an Olongapo court minimum operating level of 180 they said. Maynilad Water Services Inc. Harry S. Roque said in Filipino. ordered Pemberton’s release due masl. In their previous advisory, and Manila Water Co. Inc. — at “They promised that even to his accumulated good conduct The water level in the dam fell which was based on July data, normal flow of 46 cubic meters if Pemberton is released and time allowance. below 180 masl in September, and the two climate centers placed per second. the process in the Philippines This was contested by the has been dropping every day for the probability of La Niña Sevillo David Jr., the water ended, he will still face court public and the Laude family but the last 23 days. developing fully at 60 percent board’s executive director, said martial proceedings where it Duterte said Pemberton was not Monday’s advisory from the in the following three months. Metro Manila’s water supply was will be determined if additional monitored for his good conduct US Climate Prediction Center That means heavy rains may start being kept steady even if the water punishment will be imposed credits and was not treated fairly. and the International Research coming in September, though level at Angat had fallen below Institute for Climate and Society Pagasa has been reporting only operating level as a preventive eased fears of a water shortage in low pressure and monsoon effects measure against the COVID-19 EDITORIAL: Simon-pure the capital if the Angat stock went (From Page 4) in recent days. outbreak. Yet Badoy has hardly been circumspect in her run as rah-rah girl of Malacañang. Annoyed at the European Union for its criticism of DIAZ: Xi’s dream of New World Order the Duterte administration’s bloody war on drugs, she said it should “stick to child porn.” Just in January, invited to One News’ “The (From Page 4) Chiefs” to discuss the PCOO’s newly launched “Duterte Legacy” domination, which uses debt as campaign, she made a spectacle of herself in accusing the think a tool of control. Or, is it a new tank Ibon Foundation as a front organization of the CPP-NPA that global development platform to “brings down governments” and, at one point, needed to be told propel its much-heralded “win- by the program hosts to get a grip and focus on the topic at hand. win” diplomacy? There’s also the matter of her attacks on Leni Robredo — Indeed, China’s “win-win” “basurera,” garbage woman, she at one point called the Vice diplomacy is the result of its President, who had written about helping her college-age daughter “soft power” approach to winning get settled with recycled furniture in her Harvard apartment — friends. In 1990, Harvard slurs so astonishingly vicious that even her, Badoy’s, sister, the University scholar Joseph S. radio/TV host and educator Gang Badoy Capati, wondered: “Why Nye Jr. coined “soft power” that so vile, so deeply and unnecessarily mean?” is meant for a country to get Indeed, why? Badoy is a physician by training and therefore other countries to “want what it bound by professional ethical standards. Yet in calling activists wants.” Nye emphasized that a “terrorists,” she pronounces herself simon-pure, suggesting that, “country’s perceived legitimacy, repayment of a $2.3 billion loan eventually surpass the U.S. by tragically, holding people to what they have sworn to is now a attractiveness of ideology and for Kenya Railways Corporation at least two-fold, which would futile, stupid, notion. culture, and societal norms play (KRC), China would seize the up the ante between the two Is this state of affairs in the PCOO what it calls its “gold an important role in shaping Kilindini Harbor, the biggest nations’ massive militaries. “The standard”? (And we’re not even beginning to talk about the “state international politics.” Xi has port in East Africa, which was foundation of war is economics,” of the art” media equipment supposedly donated by the Chinese used “soft power” to pursue his the collateral for the Chinese Musk said. Embassy in March 2019, which the Commission on Audit had failed “Chinese Dream” and he’s been loan. The massive construction With the U.S. retreating from to find in the PCOO’s book of accounts.) –Philippine Daily Inquirer extraordinarily successful in loan was the result of Kenya its global responsibilities, China achieving it. participating in OBOR. But the is ready to pick up the slack. No But there is a flaw in the problem was that the feasibility need to go to war. After all the calculus. While it might look studies were performed by China, U.S. is retreating. As Sun Tzu said like a “win-win” scenario, a lot which might have estimated high in his Art of War, “The supreme of countries that fell for China’s revenue to be able to service the art of war is to subdue the enemy “soft power” enticements will end loan. This led to fears of Kenya’s without fighting.” And by the up indebted to China. Unable to ability to repay the loans, which looks of it, China is winning the repay their debts, China would would trigger the seizure of the war with its economic power, not then foreclose the collaterals. Take collateral. Should there be any military power. for instance the Hambantota Port dispute with the Chinese bank, At the end of the day, Xi in Sri Lanka that was financed it would be handled through an Jinping’s dream of Pax Sinica, by China. Unable to repay the arbitration process in China, not a New World Order would soon financing, Sri Lanka defaulted and in Kenyan courts. come to fruition. What’s Donald subsequently gave a 99-year lease Economic war Trump or whoever his successor to China, evidently the result of Last February 28, Elon Musk of is going to do about it? debt-trap diplomacy. Tesla and SpaceX fame predicted ([email protected]) Sri Lanka was not the only that the Chinese economy will one who fell into China’s “debt- trap diplomacy.” A recent report said that at least 16 countries are vulnerable to China’s economic coercion, including Kenya, Pakistan, Zambia, Djibouti, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, Myanmar, Tonga, Micronesia, Vanatu, and the Please send your press Philippines. and photo releases to Another project that would [email protected]. soon follow the fate of Sri Lanka is Kenya. If Kenya fails to begin September 18, 2020 PHILIPPINE POST Page 9 10 people dead, 22 missing in massive Oregon wildfires LYONS, Oregon -- As thick black smoke smothers towns in rural Oregon, Scott Fogarty holds on to photos and hope. He has no idea what happened to his longtime friend George Atiyeh. But he knows what Senate President Vicente Sotto III and Health Secretary Francisco happened to Atiyeh’s property. Duque III “His home was completely lost, and his shop,” Fogarty said, clutching two photos of his friend. Sotto stunned after Duque Atiyeh is among at least 22 people missing in the Oregon cleared in PhilHealth mess wildfires, which have already Crumpled roofs and debris lay in the wake of wildfires in Oregon. MANILA — Senate President agency’s Protest and Appeal killed 10 people in the state. Vicente Sotto III said he was Review Department “for their In some areas, the opaque stunned that the multi-agency failure to act and gross neglect smoke and soaring flames been killed. torched more than 160,000 acres task force created to probe of duties relative to the cases have made it too dangerous or Officials in Oregon, California in the Willamette National Forest Philippine Health Insurance Corp. pending in their department.” impossible to try to find those and Washington state have east of Eugene. That’s an area (PhilHealth) did not recommend However, no charges were missing. demanded more federal action slightly larger than the city of the filing of charges against Health recommended against both Duque And authorities fear more against climate change as the states Chicago. Secretary Francisco Duque III for and Del Rosario by the task force deaths. A mobile medical grapple with soaring temperatures Caught in the middle of the the fund mess involving the state led by the Department of Justice. examiner facility has been set up and lengthy droughts. forest is the town of Vida, where insurer. “Perhaps the Ombudsman in Linn County due to wildfires Typically, fires consume Nailah Garner had to flee her “No Duque? No Del Rosario? would have a better perspective in the area, Oregon State Police about 500,000 acres a year in dream home last week, CNN I’m dumbfounded! Article 217 of the anomalies,” Sotto went on. spokesman Timothy Fox said. Oregon, Gov. Kate Brown said. affiliate KOMO reported. (Malversation) of the [Revised Duque, who serves as The mobile morgue was set up But in just one week, “we burned “We didn’t know what to grab. Penal Code] is very clear,” PhilHealth board’s ex-officio because of the fires. over a million acres of beautiful We didn’t pack,” she said, wearing Sotto said in a Viber message to chairman, has since dismissed He said this is the first time a Oregon.” donated clothes. “Who knows reporters on Monday. the Senate committee’s findings mobile morgue of that kind has “We saw the perfect firestorm. what to do when you’re going Sotto chairs the Senate as “baseless.” been needed. We saw incredible winds. We saw through this?” Committee of the Whole, which The health chief said he was In the city of Talent, about ... hot temperatures and, of course, Eventually, a friend told Garner earlier recommended the filing implicated with the IRM fund 20 miles north of the California we have a landscape that has seen her dream home was destroyed. of malversation and graft charges distribution when he “was not border, homes were charred 30 years of drought,” Brown said. “It’s all gone,” she said. “It against Duque and several other even part of the deliberation and beyond recognition. The Holiday Farm Fire has looks like a war zone hit it.” officials over the allegedly did not sign the said resolution” Across the western US, at least questionable release of billions that authorized it. 87 wildfires are burning, according RIGHTS: PH policies hit of funds through PhilHealth’s But Sotto had stressed that to the National Interagency Fire emergency cash advance measure. Duque’s own admission that he Center. They’ve torched more (From Page 1) monitoring and reporting” into The committee also wants had no knowledge of the allegedly than 4.7 million acres -- more concerned by “continued reports the human rights situation in the administrative cases filed against anomalous distribution of IRM than six times the area of Rhode of drug-related killings by both Philippines, noting the continued resigned PhilHealth senior vice funds only proves that he had Island. At least 36 people have police and vigilantes [even] during harassment and threats of violence president for legal sector Rodolfo been negligent as PhilHealth COVID-related restrictions on against journalists, activists and del Rosario and all the other board chair. movement.” critics. officers and employees of the In June, Bachelet published a The UN special rapporteur for FRAUD damning report revealing “serious extrajudicial killings on Monday (From Page 1) human rights violations” in the also urged the International PH Covid-19 cases now 272,934 The California Employment Philippines, including the rising Criminal Court (ICC) to MANILA — There are now Development Department can number of police-related deaths “prioritize the completion” of 272,934 cases of the COVID-19 transfer as much as $20,000 on and arbitrary detentions under its preliminary investigation into in the Philippines after 3,550 new those EDD debit cards, police the brutal war on drugs, as well the human rights situation in the infections were recorded, the said, and cardholders are able to as vilification of dissent under a Philippines, as well as for UN Department of Health (DOH) said withdraw up to $1,000 per day, hostile administration. member states to “apply sanctions Wednesday. per card. They said the suspects The report, which examined against individual Philippine The latest data of the DOH traveled primarily from out of the documents relating to the officials” who are being cited as of Sept. 16 showed that of the state to obtain the EDD cards drug war, found “a troubling lack for inciting or neglecting human total number of cases, 60,344 are using stolen identities. of due process protections, and rights violations here. considered active cases. “They will then use the cards the use of language calling for During the virtual Global Of the active cases, 87.7 to lease short-term rentals, ‘negation’ and ‘neutralization’ of Day of Action hosted by local percent are mild cases, 8.4 percent rent luxury vehicles, dine at drug suspects.” human rights groups here, Agnes are asymptomatic cases, 2.7 restaurants and purchase high-end While Justice Secretary Callamard said the international percent are critical cases, and 1.2 The health department merchandise,” said the Beverly Menardo Guevarra rejected community “must act now in the percent are severe cases. also noted that it removed 23 Hills Police Department. the OHCHR’s concerns, he context of its preventive mandate, Metro Manila still has the duplicates, of which nine were Several local, state and federal promised to undertake an internal and it must act decisively” in light most number of new cases with recovered cases, from the total law enforcement agencies are investigation into some 5,655 drug of the growing number of deaths 1,459, followed by Rizal with 271, case count. teaming up to tackle the growing raids conducted under “Oplan in the Philippines. Cavite with 196, and Bulacan and Furthermore, the DOH trend of EDD fraud and identity Tokhang” in 2016. Human rights watchdogs have Laguna both having 172 cases. noted that nine other cases were theft including LAPD, CHP, LA The OHCHR, Bachelet said, noted that, despite Bachelet’s The DOH also reported 524 previously reported as recoveries, County Sheriff’s Department, was still seeking details from the damning report on the Philippines’ new COVID-19 survivors and 69 but were later identified as U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Postal Philippine government regarding human rights situation last June, new fatalities, bringing the total to deaths after final validation. Inspector’s Office, the Department its promised internal police extrajudicial killings of suspected 207,858 and 4,732, respectively. of Labor, and the IRS. investigations. drug users and human rights Anyone with information Addressing her colleagues, she defenders have not abated even about this crime trend is asked also urged the council to “remain during the ongoing public health www.philpostblog.wordpress.com to call the Beverly Hills Police active in this situation, and to crisis. Department at 310-285-2125. support the (OHCHR)’s continued Page 10 PHILIPPINE POST September 20, 2019 COMMUNITY September 18, 2020 PHILIPPINE POST Page 10 LA mayor refutes Trump’s response to CA wildfires LOS ANGELES -- Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti on Sunday pushed back on President Donald Trump’s frequent characterization of wildfires, like those currently ravaging the West Coast, as simply a forest A sign reads “campus on limited operations” at L.A. City College management issue. in 2020. (Gabriella Angotti-Jones / Los Angeles Times) “It’s been very clear that years of drought, as we’re seeing, whether it’s too much water and LACCD colleges too much rain in parts of our country right now, or too little,” to remain online Garcetti told CNN’s Jake Tapper on “State of the Union.” “This only through spring is climate change and this is an administration that’s put its head Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti LOS ANGELES -- The Los national, state and local level, and, in the sand.” Angeles Community College given the current health orders, Slamming the administration Minden, Nevada, that the fires clean your floors, you gotta clean District, the largest in the nation, safety protocols and restrictions, as hosting “the last vestiges are about “forest management,” a your forests -- there are many, will remain online-only for the our best health experts agree that of the flat Earth society of this characterization he has repeatedly many years of leaves and broken rest of the academic year amid we are still far from full recovery generation,” Garcetti called for offered of such blazes that has trees and they’re like, like, so the region’s ongoing coronavirus without a vaccine or responsive “real action.” been previously criticized as flammable, you touch them and public health crisis, the system’s therapeutics,” Chancellor “We need to reduce the carbon inaccurate. it goes up.” chancellor has announced. Francisco Rodriguez said in a emissions that we have, and we “It is about forest management, About 20% of California is There will be a few exceptions letter to faculty and staff Friday need to make sure we can manage please remember the words, very made up of national forests, for classes that support the night. that water,” he added. “This is not simply, forest management, according to the US Department “essential infrastructure Rodriguez’s announcement about just forest management or please remember, about forest of Agriculture Forest Service. workforce,” such as those training follows a similar one by the raking. Anybody who lives here management, and other things,” he Garcetti on Sunday also respiratory therapists, certified California State University system, in California is insulted by that, said, also thanking the firefighters asked that Trump respond to nurse assistants and electricians, as colleges across California and quite frankly, and (Trump) keeps and first responders who are issues in Democratic-leaning among others. the nation grapple with COVID-19 perpetrating this lie.” reacting to the fires. cities and states just as he would “We remain in a declared outbreaks on campuses and in Garcetti’s comments come Trump has pushed the familiar in Republican ones, saying public health emergency at the nearby communities. a day after the White House refrain for years while staying he believes they are treated announced Trump will visit largely silent on climate change, unequally. Parazo, Filipino front liner, dies California Monday. The President despite scientists having long “I think leadership at the very mentioned the wildfires during warned that fire seasons like this top needs to be earlier, stronger, TUSTIN, California -- a speech at a rally Saturday could happen, and that the more and from the President I wish that Another Filipino front liner in night -- after weeks of remaining humans heat up the planet, the we would get as much attention the fight against the coronavirus largely silent on the historically higher the odds in favor of the not based on an electoral map but is gone. devastating fires that have killed hot, dry conditions conducive to just purely on being Americans,” Nueva Velez Parazo, a nurse over two dozen people and burned blazes. Garcetti told Tapper. “And the practitioner and only daughter of more than 3 million acres in After 2018’s deadly Camp fire, need for leadership to be from the retired Manila Bulletin reporter California -- but did not speak on Trump said that the forest floor White House for all of America, Chito Parazo, succumbed to the climate crisis, an omission should have been “raked out.” you know whether it’s twin Covid-19 last Sept. 5 at the Hoag that is often a point of contention “They’re starting again in hurricanes on the Gulf Coast or Hospital after being infected by an among his critics. California,” Trump said at a rally fires here on the West Coast, we’re elderly patient in a nursing home Trump told rallygoers in in mid-August. “I said, you gotta one nation.” in Orange County. She spent 32 days in the Intensive Care Unit of Hoag Hospital. She was 45. Nueva V. Parazo, 45 Mabuhay Credit Union to honor Parazo was born on Oct. 28, 1975 in the Philippines. Her the CGFNS test in California 14 community heroes every month older brother, Xerxes, died in an years ago. accident in 1984 at the age of 9. She finished a two-year course CARSON -- Each month Food Production; Energy & Gas; photo and post is set to public and She worked for CareMore as Nurse Practitioner magna cum over the next year, members of Water & Telecom tag Mabuhay Credit Union on that Health Plan of California and laude from the Charles Drew Mabuhay Credit Union will have December - Community post @mabuhaycu. attended to 99 patients in various University of Medicine and the opportunity to nominate a Volunteer; Child/Senior care Use hashtags #MabuhayCU nursing homes and assisted living Science. community hero from a variety How to Enter: #MabuhayHeroes. facilities throughout Orange She is survived by parents of essential service sectors. Credit Union members are Winners will be determined County. Chito and Jennifer Parazo, and The selected Mabuhay requested to post a photo of their based on the highest total number Parazo graduated with a children Joshua, 22; Rhoubie, 20; Community Heroes will be favorite Heroes on their Facebook of likes, comments, and shares**. nursing degree cum laude from and John, 18. awarded with a $50 gift card page from one of these Essential Official deadline of posting the Philippine College of Health Viewing will be held on plus an additional $50 deposit* Services sectors. entries will be the last day of the Sciences and got her master’s Saturday, Sept. 19, from 2 p.m. towards their Mabuhay Credit On the same post, they are to previous month. degree from the same school. to 7 p.m. at the Saddleback Chapel Union account! The first tag them and tell the organizers For more information please She was able to get a visa to take in Tustin. three months are listed below: what inspires them about their contact 888.MABUHAY October - Health Care chosen Mabuhay Community (888.622.8429) or info@ workers; Caregivers Heroes. mabuhaycu.org. November - Agriculture & Applicants must ensure that the

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No Filipino Filipinos for affected in Fil-Am among Trump’s Trump to West Coast hold car rally wildfires possible picks for SC on October 4 WASHINGTON – Filipino Others on the new list include American former solicitor general U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz, R-Texas; WEST COVINA – The MANILA — No Filipino have Noel Francisco is among 20 people Tom Cotton, R-Ark.; and Josh Filipinos for Trump, a group of so far been reported affected in President Donald Trump says he is Hawley, a Republican from Filipinos supporting President recent forest fires across the US considering for nomination to the Missouri. Donald Trump in his reelection bid West Coast, the Department of U.S. Supreme Court. Francisco argued 17 cases in November, will stage a car rally Foreign Affairs (DFA) said. Francisco, 51, served as U.S. before the Supreme Court while on October 4 in partnership with “The Department of Foreign Solicitor General under Trump serving as solicitor general on conservative Filipino groups and Affairs (DFA) confirms that no until July, when he left to rejoin issues that included religious individual community leaders who Filipinos have so far been reported the Washington law firm of liberty, separation of powers and are supportive of President Trump. affected by the recent forest fire Jones Day. He was the Trump free speech. The rally will be a unifying incidents across the United States’ administration’s top lawyer Francisco successfully event to celebrate the successes West Coast,” the DFA said in a arguing cases at the Supreme argued in favor of Trump’s of the President from domestic statement on Monday. Court for the past three years. controversial travel ban, a move to foreign policy. This event will The DFA then advised the public Trump included Francisco’s that blocked people from several be one of many held nationwide to monitor advisories released Former US Solicitor General name on a list made public predominantly Muslim countries on the same day, as rallies are by the Philippine Consulates Noel Francisco Wednesday of people he would from entering the United States. scheduled in Oregon, South General in Los Angeles and in consider appointing to the Francisco is the son of the late immigrant, and Therese Francis Carolina, Virginia and many other San Francisco for updates and Supreme Court in a second term. Dr. Nemesio Francisco, a Filipino of Oswego, New York. states and cities with a significant necessary assistance. Filipino population. Over 30 people have been The Southern California event reported killed following wildfires Wounded LA deputy saved partner’s will enable media members in the West Coast, according to to interview participants from local authorities. life after they were shot in Compton 9 am to 10 am and listen to The blaze across California, Filipino American celebrities and Oregon and Washington state LOS ANGELES -- One of conservative community leaders. have burned nearly five million two Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Festivities will actually begin acres, destroying neighborhoods deputies attacked Saturday saved the day before for decorating in and driving thousands of residents the life of the other by applying a various Filipino localities of Los away from their homes. tourniquet while bleeding from a gunshot wound to her face. Angeles and Orange County. On “There’s no other way to Saturday, October 3, between Fitness centers put it: They’re amazing,” Los 4 and 7 pm, several cities will Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said, host decoration parties so sue state, LA describing the deputies’ bravery. participants can meet like-minded County over A gunman in Compton, Fil-Am conservatives and decorate California, shot both deputies their cars. forced closures four or five times Saturday night, The next day, at 9 am on Sunday Garcetti said. They are in stable October 4, all groups will gather Screen shot from surveillance video shows a hooded shooter fire at LOS ANGELES -- California but critical condition after they in front of Jollibee Restaurant two LA deputies who were seated in their patrol car in Compton. fitness centers have filed a lawsuit “got through surgery well,” in West Covina for a quick rally alleging Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Sheriff Alex Villanueva told Villanueva said. Sunday. with influential celebrities and measures aimed at curbing the KABC radio. The shooting happened shortly Biden called the shooting community leaders. Right before spread of the coronavirus unfairly By an “absolute miracle,” it before 7 p.m. Saturday at MLK “absolutely unconscionable.” the cars leave at 10 am, the winning target the industry and demanding appears they will survive, the Transit Center in Compton, the “Acts of lawlessness and region with the most energy (best they be allowed to reopen. mayor said. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s violence directed against police designs and most participants) will Scott Street, a lawyer for the Footage that appears to be Department said. officers are unacceptable, also be announced and given California Fitness Alliance, said from surveillance cameras shows The gunman walked toward outrageous and entirely prizes. Tuesday that the suit was filed a deputy, who Garcetti identified the passenger side of the deputies’ counterproductive to the pursuit Will it be Glendale, Northridge, in Los Angeles County Superior as a 31-year-old mother, taking vehicle, raised a pistol and shot of greater peace and justice in Santa Clarita, West Covina, Orange Court. cover behind a pillar, rendering them, Capt. Kent Wegener said. America -- as are the actions of County or the South Bay? Find out It accuses state and Los Angeles aid to her 24-year-old partner The sheriff’s department those who cheer such attacks on,” on Sunday, October 4. County officials of requiring and calling for help. Both are tweeted surveillance video of the Biden said in a statement. For more information, contact gyms to close without providing bloodied. gunman opening fire and running Democratic US Rep. Adam Marc Ang at 424-291-2102 or evidence they contribute to virus “These are two brave away. Schiff, whose district includes [email protected]. outbreaks and at a time when individuals who put their lives on “This is just a somber parts of Los Angeles County, staying healthy is critical for the line,” Garcetti said. reminder that this is a dangerous offered his prayers to the deputies. residents. Detectives have not yet job, and actions and words have “Every day, law enforcement Messages seeking comment identified a suspect, but thanks to consequences. Our job does not officers put themselves at risk to were sent to state and county donations from two private donors get any easier because people protect our community,” Schiff public health officials. a reward now stands at $175,000, do not like law enforcement,” tweeted. “I hope the perpetrator Villanueva said. “It pisses me off. of this cowardly attack can be It dismays me at the same time.” quickly brought to justice.” Padilla to voters: Vote “There is no place in our society for the violence that we by mail and vote early saw,” Garcetti said. He described county deputies as guardians of By Pilar Marrero/ Ethnic Media Services one of the city’s public transit SACRAMENTO -- All “That’s a great start, but in lines. registered voters in California will California 30% of voters is still Both deputies were sworn in soon receive a mail-in ballot even a large number. We want to 14 months ago, the sheriff said. if they haven’t asked for one, and make sure those who are not President Donald Trump there will be plenty of options to familiar with this way of voting and Democratic presidential register, re-register, vote by mail, are comfortable with it, and know candidate Joe Biden condemned vote in person or vote curbside they can still vote in person if they the shooting. up until Nov. 3rd, said Secretary need or want to,” Padilla said. “When we find that person, of State Alex Padilla at a briefing Voters should vote by mail and we’ve got to get much faster with ethnic media. vote early, Padilla urged, and they with our courts, and we’ve got “We have to start thinking of should take advantage of tools to get much tougher with our November 3rd as the last day of that improve the transparency and sentencing. We have to come voting, not simply as ‘election security of voting such as ballot out very, very strongly,” Trump day’,” Padilla noted. tracking (Where’s My Ballot?) told supporters in Las Vegas on California has 21 million which tells them when their registered voters, more than the ballot has been sent, when it was Padilla noted. He called the timing population of every other state received by the county, and when of the Presidential elections in except Florida and Texas, and it was counted. the midst of the pandemic and the largest number of voters Voters can sign up for ballot heightened political polarization anywhere. tracking and receive notices via “an unprecedented situation.” Voting by mail has been text, email or voice call, he added. Padilla encouraged voters to register, re-register if they need to growing in popularity, Padilla “This will be great for change their voter file information said. In the last statewide election transparency, accountability and or check their registration status – the March primary—up to 70% confidence, which have come by going online at VoterStatus. of registered voters voted by mail. under attack in recent weeks,” sos.ca.gov. Page 12 PHILIPPINE POST September 18, 2020 US & WORLD NEWS September 18, 2020 PHILIPPINE POST Page 12 WTO says US broke trade rules THE WORLD IN BRIEF by imposing tariffs on China GENEVA — The World Trade WTO’s appellate body, preventing Organization found on Tuesday it from convening the minimum that the United States breached number required to hear cases. global trading rules by imposing The WTO panel was aware multibillion-dollar tariffs in it was stepping into hot water. It President Donald Trump’s trade noted that it had looked only into war with China, a ruling that drew the U.S. measures and not China’s anger from Washington. retaliation, which Washington has The Trump administration not challenged at the WTO. says its tariffs imposed two “The panel is very much aware years ago on more than $200 of the wider context in which the Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga reacts after he was billion in Chinese goods were WTO system currently operates, elected as new head of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party justified because China was which is one reflecting a range (LDP) at the party’s leadership election in Tokyo. stealing intellectual property and China’s Commerce Ministry of unprecedented global trade forcing U.S. companies to transfer said Beijing supported the tensions,” the 66-page report Yoshihide Suga named technology for access to China’s multilateral trading system and concluded. markets. respected WTO rules and rulings, The panel recommended the Japan’s new prime minister But the WTO’s three-member and hoped Washington would do United States bring its measures TOKYO — Japan’s parliament on Wednesday elected Yoshihide panel said the U.S. duties broke the same. “into conformity with its Suga prime minister, with the former chief cabinet secretary trading rules because they applied The decision will have little obligations”, but also encouraged expected to stick closely to policies championed by Shinzo Abe only to China and were above immediate effect on the U.S. the two sides to work to resolve during his record-breaking tenure. maximum rates agreed to by the tariffs and is just the start of a the overall dispute. Suga, 71, won an easy victory, taking 314 votes of 462 valid ballots United States. Washington had legal process that could take years “Time is available for the cast in the lower house of parliament, where his ruling Liberal not then adequately explained to play out, ultimately leading to parties to take stock as proceedings Democratic Party (LDP) holds a commanding majority. why its measures were a justified the WTO approving retaliatory evolve and further consider He bowed deeply as lawmakers applauded following the exception, the panel concluded. measures if it is upheld – moves opportunities for mutually agreed announcement, but made no immediate comment. “This panel report confirms that China has already taken on and satisfactory solutions,” it said. “According to the results, our house has decided to name what the Trump administration its own. During a two-year trade war Yoshihide Suga prime minister,” lower house speaker Tadamori has been saying for four years: the The United States is likely with Beijing, Trump threatened Oshima announced after the votes were counted. WTO is completely inadequate to appeal Tuesday’s ruling. tariffs on nearly all Chinese Suga is expected to announce his cabinet later Wednesday, with to stop China’s harmful That would put the case into a imports – more than $500 billion local media reporting he will retain a number of ministers from technology practices,” U.S. Trade legal void, however, because – before the two countries signed Abe’s last government. Representative Robert Lighthizer Washington has already blocked a “Phase 1” trade deal in January. Suga, who on Monday was elected leader of the LDP, is viewed said in response. the appointment of judges to the as a continuity candidate and has said his run was inspired by a desire to pursue Abe’s policies. Abe, who resigned earlier Wednesday along with his cabinet, is ending his record run in office with a year left in his mandate. Chinese military calls US He was forced out by a recurrence of ulcerative colitis, a bowel disease that has long plagued him. Suga has spent decades in politics — most recently as chief biggest threat to world peace cabinet secretary, where he was known for pushing government BEIJING — China’s Defense policies through a sometimes intractable bureaucracy. Ministry on Sunday blasted a He has also been the face of the government, doggedly defending critical U.S. report on the country’s its policies as spokesman, including in sometimes testy exchanges military ambitions, saying it is the with journalists. U.S. instead that poses the biggest His upbringing, as the son of a strawberry-farmer father and threat to the international order schoolteacher mother, sets him apart from the many blue-blood and world peace. political elites in his party and the Japanese political scene. The statement follows the Sept. 2 release of the annual Defense Pressure on Moscow as more Department report to Congress labs confirm Navalny poisoned on Chinese military developments and goals that it said would have BERLIN — Two European laboratories have corroborated “serious implications for U.S. German findings that Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny national interests and the security was poisoned with a Novichok nerve agent, Berlin said on of the international rules-based Monday, prompting French President Emmanuel Macron to order.” In this 2015 file photo, Chinese President Xi Jinping is displayed demand Vladimir Putin shed light on the “attempted murder.” Defense Ministry spokesman on a screen as Type 99A2 Chinese battle tanks take part in a pa- Hitting back at doubts raised by Russia about the German Col. Wu Qian called the report rade commemorating the 70th anniversary of Japan’s surrender investigation, Chancellor Angela Merkel’s spokesman Steffen a “wanton distortion” of China’s during World War II held in front of Tiananmen Gate in Beijing. Seibert said Germany had asked France and Sweden “for an independent review of the German evidence on the basis of new aims and the relationship between people and displacement of actions to safeguard the healthy samples from Mr. Navalny”, who is receiving treatment in Berlin. the People’s Liberation Army and millions, Qian said. development of bilateral military “The results of this review at specialized laboratories in France and China’s 1.4 billion people. “Rather than reflecting on relations.” Sweden are now available and confirm the German evidence” of the use “Many years of evidence itself, the U.S. issued a so-called Running to more than 150 of the banned weapons-grade substance, Seibert said in a statement. shows that it is the U.S. that is report that made false comments pages, the Defense Department The new results prompted Macron to tell the Russian president the fomenter of regional unrest, about China’s normal defense report examined the PLA’s in telephone talks that it was “imperative that all light be shed, the violator of the international and military construction,” he technical capabilities, doctrines, without delay, on the circumstances of this attempted murder and order and the destroyer of world said in the statement. “We call on and the ultimate aims of China’s military buildup. It said it includes who is responsible,” the French presidency said in a statement. peace,” he said. the U.S. to view China’s national becoming a “practical instrument” Putin fired back that the claims remained “unsubstantiated U.S. actions in Iraq, Syria, defense and military construction of China’s statecraft with an accusations based on nothing against the Russian side.” Libya, and other countries over objectively and rationally, cease active role in advancing Beijing’s the past two decades have resulted making false statements and foreign policy and “aims to revise in the deaths of more than 800,000 related reports, and take concrete aspects of the international order.” Pope Francis says having sex and eating good food ‘divine’ Judge rules virus restrictions unconstitutional VATICAN -- The pope spoke on cuisine and intercourse during a series of interviews with Carlo Petrini, an Italian culinary writer HARRISBURG, against Wolf, a Democrat, and his the concept of a ‘new normal’ and activist behind the “slow food” movement, which positions Pennsylvania -- Gov. Tom health secretary. where the basic liberties of the itself as the opposite of fast food and advocates a slower, more Wolf’s pandemic restrictions that The Wolf administration’s people can be subordinated to meaningful pace of life. required people to stay at home, pandemic policies have been open-ended emergency mitigation “Pleasure arrives directly from God,” Francis told Petrini. “It placed size limits on gatherings overreaching and arbitrary and measures.” is neither Catholic, nor Christian, nor anything else. It is simply and ordered “non-life-sustaining” violated citizens’ constitutional The ruling means that current divine.” businesses to shut down are rights, Stickman wrote in his restrictions, including ones that Francis critiqued the “overzealous morality” of a Roman unconstitutional, a federal judge ruling. limit the size of indoor and outdoor Catholic Church that denounced pleasure in the past, calling it a ruled Monday. The governor’s efforts to slow gatherings, can’t be enforced, “wrong interpretation of the Christian message.” U.S. District Judge William the spread of the coronavirus according to attorney Thomas “The church has condemned inhuman, brutish, vulgar pleasure, Stickman IV, who was appointed “were undertaken with the W. King III, who represented the but has on the other hand always accepted human, simple, moral by President Donald Trump, sided good intention of addressing plaintiffs. pleasure,” Francis said. “The pleasure of eating is there to keep with plaintiffs that included hair a public health emergency. “It’s really 100% in our favor. you healthy by eating, just like sexual pleasure is there to make salons, drive-in movie theaters, a But even in an emergency, the The court found in all respects that love more beautiful and guarantee the perpetuation of the species. farmer’s market vendor, a horse authority of government is not the orders issued by the governor ... The pleasure of eating and sexual pleasure [comes] from God.” trainer and several Republican unfettered,” Stickman wrote. and the secretary of health were Francis pointed to the 1987 film “Babette’s Feast,” saying it officeholders in their lawsuit “The Constitution cannot accept unconstitutional,” King said. represented his ideas on pleasure. PageFebruaryJulySeptemberDecember 16 8, 2019 24, 16, 18, 2018 2017 2020 PHILIPPINEPHILIPPINEPHILIPPINE POST POSTPOST July 8, 2019 Page PagePagePage 91713 9 COMMUNITYHOME & HEALTHFebruary 14, September2020 18, PHILIPPINE 2020 PHILIPPINE POST POST Page Page 13 13 How to care for older people in pandemic By Malaka Gharib/ NPR DURING this pandemic, I’ve been worried about my grandma — Nanay, to me. That’s Tagalog for mother. Her name is Felisa Mercene. She’s a Filipino American immigrant. She’s 92. Since March, she’s been living in isolation from most of our family in Southern California. Her relatives have The new normal in Thai school been wary of visiting. What if they had COVID-19 and infected her? 3,000 miles away in Adjusting to a new school Washington, D.C., where I live, I wondered: Is she feeling safe? Is she happy? Or ... is she lonely? It got me thinking. How do we not consider Nanay’s feelings? year in uncertain times make sure the older people in our Perel-Levin says it’s a common lives — parents, grandparents, way that younger people deal with MANY FAMILIES are By Kaiser Permanente remember this is a marathon, not neighbors, relatives, friends — are older people. We figure they’re experiencing uncertainty, anxiety, a sprint. Make plans for various doing OK in the pandemic? old, they’re vulnerable — and and fear about this school year. adolescents with direct exposure contingencies, and identify family, I turned to three experts for they may not be thinking clearly. Annie Reed, DrPH, national to the pandemic — for example, friends, and other people who can advice. “Just think if it were you, director of Thriving Schools, those who lose a loved one or support you and your family if 1. How do I make sure the would you like somebody to do and Don Mordecai, MD, national whose family is struggling with you need help. And go easy on older person is comfortable and this to you?” she asks. leader of mental health and the disease, food shortages, or yourself and your kids. It’s okay safe with their pandemic living But then I did a little wellness, are Kaiser Permanente other deprivations — may be most not to be okay! arrangement? investigating and found out — to experts and parents of school- at risk for depression, anxiety, What can parents do to I ask this question because I’ve my relief — that we had given aged children. We asked them addiction, or other emotional support their children’s mental been thinking a lot about Nanay’s Nanay a choice. My uncle asked to share their thoughts about issues. The good news is that health? situation. her: Do you want the flowers or do how people can help their kids young people are remarkably Mordecai: Children will carry Since I was a little girl, Nanay you want to protect your health? as learning resumes during this resilient, especially when they the effects of trauma with them lived with my aunt, Tita Pinky. “And I agree with them because unique time. are given support and protection as they return to learning, and Tita Pinky’s house is the center of I’m already afraid,” says Nanay. The first half of 2020 has in uncertain situations. they will be additionally affected family activity. Relatives would In the end it was a good idea. been very challenging amid the However, we need to remain by whatever new experiences come and eat and hang out. And In July Tita Pinky and three other pandemic and social unrest. aware that right now they are Nanay loved it. family members got sick with How has this affected children’s affected by a lot of disruption. Then the pandemic came COVID-19. With Nanay at Tito academic lives? My wife and I have 2 sons. The along. Tita Pinky is a doctor Ovid’s house, Tita Pinky could older one is heading to college far — and she started leading her recover at her home without from home where he will need to hospital’s COVID-19 response. worrying about infecting. manage staying safe — wearing Suddenly we were all afraid Takeaway: Ask older people a mask and maintaining physical that Tita Pinky might catch the what they want. distance — on his own. And our coronavirus and inadvertently younger son is facing more online infect Nanay. So we decided it schooling, which brings its own would be safer if she moved in challenges. with my uncle, Tito Ovid. Reed: There has also been a But Nanay didn’t want to real increase in social needs as a move. result of the economic downturn, “Because of my garden, I do and many more families are now not want to go away because of worried about food security and Don Mordecai my flowers,” she says. housing stability. And when it We made her move anyway. comes to emotional well-being, make up the new normal in their Was it a good idea for our family Annie Reed schools are the number one schooling. It’s very important that to move Nanay? Silvia Perel- provider of mental health services both families and educators pay Levin is with the International Reed: Just as with adults, to children and adolescents, so close attention to the emotions of Network for the Prevention of months of social isolation uncertain plans for this school children to help them cope during Elder Abuse at the U.N. I asked combined with fear and anxiety year may leave another gap for this unprecedented time of change her what she thought. related to COVID-19 and social our most vulnerable students. To and disruption. “You have said we have 2. If we encourage changes in unrest because of growing racial help close that and other possible It’s important to let your [moved] our grandmother instead an older person’s life, how do we disparities and injustice have gaps, we have created the Planning children know that they can of saying my grandmother chose know they’re happy about it? placed an enormous emotional for the Next Normal at School share their feelings with you. to [move] herself. So I would say In March, Nanay moved in strain on our kids. All these Playbook, a guide for education The more you normalize a child’s that the first mistake was to make with my uncle, Tito Ovid. He’s disruptions happening at the same leaders to support the physical feelings, the more resilient your a decision for her,” she says. got an extra bedroom, a swimming time have had serious effects on and emotional health of students, child will be when the feelings Oh no, I thought. Did we really (See ELDERLY, Page 15) the academic and home lives of teachers, and school staff. come. Children often take their many children. I have 2 young What can parents do to help emotional cues from important boys, ages 1 and 5, and my their children prepare for the adults like parents and teachers, so husband is a school administrator coming school year? it is important that adults manage — so we’re really living this. Reed: With the current surge in their own emotions well, listen Academic inequities have COVID-19 cases, many districts to children’s concerns, speak gotten worse, exacerbated by are beginning or have begun the kindly, and reassure them. That disparities in technology and school year remotely. As parents said, if your children witness you internet access. As a result, many and family members supporting experiencing hard feelings, that is students have fallen behind, our kids, I suggest you try to okay — just be honest with them with an estimated 20% of kids do your best to understand your and assure them that together, having “disappeared” from remote school district’s plans and share you will get through this. Let learning altogether. And many your hopes, fears, and concerns them know that at times like this, students who did have access had with trusted staff so you can work feelings like anger or sadness are challenges engaging or staying on together to address them. If you natural. task in their virtual classes. know that your district’s plan If you’re looking for additional What impacts have there will not work for your child, it’s support, discuss your concerns been on young people’s mental important that they hear it. with your pediatrician so that you health? Also, set realistic expectations can create a care plan that meets Mordecai: Children and for yourself and your children — your child’s individual needs.

We’re just a click away. Visit us at www.philpostblog.wordpress.com OctoberPagePage 20 14 28, 2017 PHILIPPINEPHILIPPINE POST POST September 18, 2020 BUSINESS September 18, 2020 PHILIPPINE POST Page 14 Foreign direct investments in PH sustain growth in June MANILA — Foreign direct annually to $185 million while investments (FDI) recovered for investments withdrawn fell 74.9% the second consecutive month on-year to $12 million, yielding in June as investors welcomed net placements of $173 million. the economy back in business, Majority of fresh FDIs during although such a trend may be the month came from Japan, the temporary in the face of recession. United Kingdom and the US. FDI posted a net inflow of These new inflows were mainly $481 million on the first month of invested in companies engaged economic reopening in June, up in manufacturing, human health 7.1% year-on-year, data released into expansion territory,” Mapa and social work, financial and This picture taken on September 10, 2020 shows a Thai Airways by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said in an email. insurance, and real estate, the BSP flight attendant wearing a face shield as she serves drinks at a (BSP) on Tuesday showed. A “The bounce in June may be reported. pop-up air-plane-themed restaurant at the airline’s headquarters net inflow indicates more job- linked to a one off investment by a From January to June, equity in Bangkok. generating investments entered big conglomerate but subsequent placements surged 16.6% to $1 the country versus those that left. big ticket investments may not billion, with investors from Japan, The latest reading was preceded be numerous in this economic the Netherlands, Singapore and With travel limited, by a 39.1% annual growth in May, environment,” he added. the US being the top contributors further tempering the FDI slump BSP itself is expected tepid during the period. plane cafes take off in the first half to 18.3% year-on- investor sentiment this year. In On the other hand, year to $3 billion. May, the central bank slashed its intercompany borrowings, or in Thailand cities “This positive development FDI forecast to $4.1 billion in net money that went between foreign was underpinned by the gradual inflows by yearend, down from headquarters and their local BANGKOK, Thailand headquarters of national carrier reopening of advanced economies the original $8.1 billion, and set affiliates here, sagged 28.8% to — With millions around the Thai Airways in Bangkok, hungry with investment interest in the for a third straight year of decline $229 million in June. world stuck at home due to diners appear even to have missed Philippines,” the central bank said under the Duterte administration. For the entire first half, this the pandemic, “plane cafes” in plane food as they gobble up in a statement. Last year, FDI net inflows segment dropped 39.8% to $1.65 Thailand are offering customers spaghetti carbonara and Thai-style But Nicholas Antonio Mapa, reached $7.68 billion, down billion, accounting for the bulk the chance to pretend they are in beef served on plastic trays by senior economist at ING Bank 23.1% year-on-year from $9.9 of FDI. the sky — and the idea seems to cabin crew. in Manila, was not so optimistic. billion in 2018. In 2017, FDI Meanwhile, reinvested have taken off. But for Intrawut Simapichet, “The growth in June is indeed a peaked at $10.26 billion, figures earnings were 19.4% lower in On board a retired commercial 38, who came to the cafe with his welcome development but I am showed. June than year-ago levels to $80 airplane in the coastal city of wife and baby, the experience is not sure if this trend can continue Breaking down the June million. From January to June, Pattaya, coffee drinkers make about more than a meal. or that a possible rebound can figures, equity capital placements, this kind of inflows sank a faster themselves comfy on first-class- “Normally I’m a person who bring year-to-date growth back or new FDIs, jumped 137.6% 21.7% to $433 million. style seats and pose for photos by travels very often, and when we the overhead lockers. are forced to stay at home... it’s Boarding passes in hand, some kind of depressing,” he said as MVP Group making bid for SkyCable “passengers” even opt for a tour fellow passengers posed with of the cockpit. luggage by a fake airplane door. MANILA — The MVP for MVP Group the cable network “With this cafe I can sit in first “(The cafe) relieves what’s Group’s telco giant Philippine to complement its telco business class and also mess around in missing.” Long Distance Telephone Co. via listed giant Globe Telecoms. the cockpit pretending to be the Thailand was the first country (PLDT) is vying for Lopez-owned The Ayalas and the MVP Group captain of the plane,” 26-year-old outside China to detect a SkyCable and is hoping to close are rivals in the telco industry and Thipsuda Faksaithong told AFP. coronavirus case, but it has since the deal after the ghost month in the water distribution business “It’s a lot of fun.” registered a low toll, with about of the Chinese Lunar calendar, among others. Chalisa Chuensranoi, 25, 3,400 infections and 58 deaths. industry sources told The STAR. Just recently, PLDT sold its said her visit was as good as Travel restrictions have The prized cable provider of prized buildings, Smart Towers any trip she had taken before nevertheless eviscerated the the beleaguered Lopez Group is along Ayala Avenue for roughly the pandemic, which shuttered tourism-reliant economy, while estimated at P15 billion to P18 P5 billion to the Consunji’s Thailand’s borders in March. Thais have founded themselves billion, but the MVP Group is family’s privately-owned DMC- “Sitting right here in the first- stuck due to quarantine ready to make an aggressive offer Urban Developers Inc., which in class section... really gives me requirements in other countries. to make sure that it bags the deal, turn plans to boost its recurring the feeling of actually being on a The government is currently sources said. income. It is not clear if this fund plane, cruising through the air,” mulling travel bubbles with select If it succeeds, the MVP Group raising is related to the planned she said. countries that also have low tolls. would be able to expand its cable MVP Group Chairman Manny deal. In another cafe at the business as it also owns Cignal TV, V. Pangilinan Another name that floated in the other direct-to-home satellite the supposed bidding war for Refrain from borrowing television service provider and which the group is targeting to SkyCable is Converge ICT’s rival of SkyCable. firm up after Sept. 16 when this Dennis H. Uy, but Uy reportedly from China, Recto urges Aside from SkyCable and year’s Chinese ghost month ends. is not interested in the cable Cignal, the Villar Group also According to Chinese belief and network provider under current MANILA — Senate President has a cable company. Its Prime tradition, no deals are supposedly circumstances. Pro Tempore Ralph Recto has Asset Ventures Inc. (PAVI)’s sealed during the ghost month. Lopez-owned SkyCable is urged Malacañang to refrain from Streamtech Systems Technology Furthermore, sources said a Filipino telecommunications borrowing from China considering Inc., a company led by Manuel Ayala conglomerate’s banking company founded in 1990 and its reclamation activities in the Paolo Villar that took over the arm BPI, is willing to help the based in Diliman, Quezon City. West Philippine Sea. internet systems operations of MVP Group fund the acquisition It offers broadband, cable and In filing Senate Resolution Planet Cable Inc., offers cable TV through a loan after the Ayala satellite television services under 512, Recto called on the executive services, internet and digital video Group decided not to join the the SkyCable and SkyDirect department to avoid increasing broadcast. bidding war. brands. It has at least one million the country’s “debt exposure” Sources said the MVP Group The business grapevine earlier subscribers. to China, “with the end view is raising funds for the offer, speculated that Ayala would vie of promoting transparency, safeguarding debt sustainability, and preserving and protecting national interest.” Sen. Ralph Recto “I filed another resolution urging the executive department China,” said Recto. to refrain from increasing the The senator noted that China country’s debt exposure to “has a track record in lending China. Aside from that, I think out money to many countries and that we should not be incurring we’ve seen what has happened to more debts from China as well,” many countries.” Recto told CNN Philippines “There is what you call a debt in an interview on Tuesday. trap as well,” he added. “Because of the pandemic in “In next year’s budget, we the Philippines, our revenues will be collecting roughly P2.9 have gone down, we will be trillion but we will be borrowing borrowing more and to finance the P3 trillion, and maybe for the many Build, Build, Build projects next two or three years. Having that we will be undertaking. said that, I don’t think we should Hopefully, we should not be be borrowing more from China borrowing these bilaterally from (See RECTO, Page 15) September 18, 2020 PHILIPPINE POST Page 15 UK think tank sees negative 8.2% growth for PH MANILA -- UK-based think by 4.5-6.6 percent this year. Southeast Asia economics tank Oxford Economics has “We see private consumption Priyanka Kishore placed the further downgraded its 2020 contracting this year on high Philippines at 11th place among gross domestic product (GDP) unemployment, depressed 14 Asia-Pacific countries in its projection for the Philippines to remittances and pessimistic recovery scorecard, just behind a negative 8.2-percent, no thanks consumer sentiment,” Tsuchiya cellar dwellers Hong Kong, to weak consumer spending and said. Indonesia and India, whose project delays due to restrictions “Private investment is also respective economic rebound amid a prolonged quarantine. expected to plunge this year would likely lag behind in the In a note to clients, Oxford given the uncertainty and delays region. Economics assistant economist to projects while infrastructure Across metrics covering Makoto Tsuchiya said the investments are impeded by social economic and health vulnerability, projected faster GDP slide distancing measures,” Tsuchiya lockdown stringency, macro from the previous forecast of said. policy response to the COVID-19 a 6.9-percent drop “not only “On the positive side, pandemic, as well as success reflects a bigger-than-expected government spending and net in containing coronavirus, the Taiwan, 0.32; Singapore, 0.19; other countries also recorded contraction in the first half, but exports should support growth,” Philippines scored negative 0.12, South Korea, 0.18; Vietnam, negative scores: Thailand (minus also the trends in high frequency Tsuchiya added. as it mainly scored among the 0.11; Japan, 0.07; Australia and 0.02); Hong Kong (minus 0.21); data that point towards a less Oxford Economics projected worst in health indicators such as Malaysia, both 0.05; and China, Indonesia (minus 0.26); and India buoyant recovery.” the Philippines’ GDP to rebound number of critical care beds and 0.02. (minus 0.67). GDP declined by an average with a 10.3-percent growth in medical doctors per population. Besides the Philippines, four of 9 percent during the first-half 2021. New Zealand scored the recession, such that the government In a separate report, Oxford highest in Oxford Economics’ expects the economy to shrink Economics head of India and recovery scorecard with 0.43; RECTO: Refrain from borrowing from China ELDERLY: How to care for them (From Page 14) (From Page 13) express here in this resolution, considering everything that is that not everyone in government pool and a nice, big garden. But happening in the West Philippine is amenable, not everyone in I wondered. Was Nanay happy Sea,” he explained. government is saying that this is there? Before this, Recto also filed an independent foreign policy. Perel-Levin says if you want Senate Resolution No. 507, It is a pivot to China. What to know, all you have to do is ask. which “expresses the sense independent foreign policy are Well, I do. I’ll say, “Nanay, of the Senate to prohibit from we talking about?” he added. how are you?” And I’ll usually receiving awards for government Asked if he believes in the get an “I’m OK.” contracts or conducting business independent foreign policy But what Perel-Levin wants in the Philippines foreign entities supposedly being espoused by me to do is dig a little deeper — who have engaged in or abetted President Rodrigo Duterte, Recto and listen. So instead of switching activities that infringe on the said: “I don’t. Like I said, it’s a topics after her response, I waited sovereignty of the country over pivot to China. Do you believe in a beat to see if she’d say anything the West Philippine Sea and independent foreign policy?” else. other areas within its territorial “Why should we reward Nanay says that everyone’s the sky,” she says. “If I do that, I And don’t forget prayer, adds jurisdiction.” contractors who reclaimed parts of been treating her very well. Tito will die.” del Prado. More than 80% of He said a Senate hearing will the West Philippine Sea? We will Ovid and his wife prepare food for She sprang into action. She Filipinos are Roman Catholics. probably be conducted on this allow them now to what, reclaim her. Her other children come and asked Tito Ovid to get her some Keeping that spiritual connection resolution on Friday. Manila Bay? We will allow them visit from a social distance. She flowers that she could grow at alive during the pandemic can do According to Recto, many now to put up an airport facility feels, she says, “like a princess.” his house. She asked my mom to a lot for an older person’s mental Filipinos find it reasonable to not in Manila Bay? Not to mention I breathed a sigh of relief. Well buy her word search puzzles and health and wellbeing, especially issue awards to foreign companies you already have the Chinese that’s good, I thought. I waited books. (“Those word search books if they are religious. involved in the reclamation of who own a certain percentage another beat, and then ... Nanay saved my life!” says Nanay.) And That’s actually one of the parts of the West Philippine Sea, of our transmission corporation? said something else. she started scrapbooking again, things that Nanay says she which he noted has created “too And now, we are allowing them to “You know, Malaka, to tell you making photo albums for the misses the most about life before much tension” in the region. enter into telecom?” he also said. the truth, sometimes I cry alone family. the pandemic: going to mass. “This is what we are trying to because I long for my room, I Takeaway: See if the older Thankfully, that was an easy long for my flowers, I long for the person can come up with solutions request. My aunt went online and surroundings.” to their problems. found a mass to stream via Zoom. We’re just a click away. Hearing her say that just broke 4. Any other special needs to Takeaway: When offering Please visit us at my heart. And what I wanted to consider? up TLC, don’t forget to take know next was how to help. Family and religion play a role the older person’s culture into www.philpostblog.wordpress.com Takeaway: Dig deeper to find in many people’s lives. That’s consideration. out how the person is really definitely true for my grandma. 5. BONUS QUESTION: feeling. “Filipino families in general How can I help the caretakers 3. How do I help an older really show a lot of their love and of older people? person who misses the life they connection just by physically being My grandma has four adult had before the pandemic? together,” says Alicia del Prado, a children with busy lives — and it Bette Ann Moskowitz is Filipino American psychologist. can be stressful to figure out the the author of Finishing Up: On schedule to take care of her. Who Ageing and Ageism. She’s 80 can check in on her when my years old. uncle and aunt are at work? Who And she had a good suggestion. can help her get up and down the Ask the older person what might stairs? Who can cook Nanay’s make them feel better. She gives low-sodium meals? an example of what you could Moskowitz has some helpful say: “Gramma, I know you’re words you can say to frazzled not happy here and I get it. What caretakers:”I know grandma could you do to make it better for sometimes is needier than we you if you were going to stay? can manage. How can we do this What things could you change?” together?” If they don’t have any solutions, That might be hard in a Moskowitz says you could ask, pandemic. But I think of how “How can we help?” my family does it. Although Tito A few months into the pandemic, Ovid and my aunt are caring for Nanay had a breakthrough. She Nanay full-time, other family realized that COVID-19 was Think of how much Filipinos members drop by to bring meals going to be around for a while — enjoy their family parties, she — alleviating some of the stress and she’d be staying at Tito Ovid’s adds — singing karaoke and of preparing a meal. a lot longer than she expected. gossiping while eating lumpia, And sometimes, a caretaker So she just ... told us what she pancit and barbecue sticks. just needs to hear permission wanted. We didn’t even have to So any time you can find ways that they can take time out for ask (although I wish we had). to maintain those strong family themselves. “You can also say [to She had to do something, she bonds — calling the older person the caretaker], ‘take a walk. You says, so she will not be bored. on the phone or on FaceTime, need a break,’ “ she adds. Nanay didn’t want to be the way bringing a familiar Filipino dish Takeaway: Acknowledge the she imagines older people to be. over to the their residence, just hard work of the caretakers — and “I don’t want to just sit around popping by to say hi — that’s a find ways to help them get a little and wait for my meals and look at huge plus. self-care. Page 16 PHILIPPINE POST April 22, 202015 FebruaryPage 10 24, 2018 PHILIPPINEPHILIPPINE POST POST SPORTSDecember 16, 2017 September 18, 2020 PHILIPPINESeptember POST Page22,PagePage 2018 16 9 9 Murray, Jovic help Nuggets stun LA Clippers in Game 7 LAKE BUENA VISTA, find out a lot about people in these had 10 points on 4-of-16 shooting. Florida — Nikola Jokic picked moments. Man, did we pass the The Clippers fell to 0-8 all-time in out two birthday presents for his character test or what?” games where they could clinch a coach. He just didn’t know which Even more history: The trip to the conference finals. one he would be wrapping. Nuggets are the third team in the This marked the third time “Before the game I told him, U.S. major pro sports to rally from that coach Doc Rivers was on the ‘Coach, I’m going to give you a a pair of 3-1 deficits in the same losing end of a series where his really good present — I’m going playoffs, joining the 1985 Kansas team led 3-1. It also happened to get you home or I’m going to City Royals and 2003 Minnesota when he was with Orlando against Miami Heat’s Bam Adebayo (13) goes up for a layup during the first get you to the conference finals,’” Wild. Detroit in 2003, and with the half of an NBA conference final playoff basketball game against the Nuggets center said. Denver will face LeBron James Clippers against Houston in 2015. the Boston Celtics on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2020, in Lake Buena Vista, Michael Malone was thrilled and the Los Angeles Lakers in the “I’m the coach and I’ll take Fla. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) with the present he received. conference finals. They’ll be the any blame for it. But we didn’t Denver’s dynamic duo of underdogs, of course. That’s fine meet our expectations, clearly,” Jamal Murray and Jokic led with Murray. Rivers said. Adebayo’s block helps another stunning turnaround “It’s fun to silence everybody,” The Nuggets celebrated in as the Nuggets advanced to the said Murray, who scored 25 in the style after the game, dumping Heat beat Celtics in G1 Western Conference finals for the first half. water on each other and jumping LAKE BUENA VISTA, from the right corner with 22 first time since 2009. They certainly quieted the around in the locker room. Florida — Jimmy Butler thought seconds left for a 106-105 Miami Murray scored 40 points, noise around the Clippers, who “This is a really interesting he won the game for Miami with a edge. Jokic had a triple-double by the hoped the additions of Kawhi team,” Jokic said. “We don’t have 3-pointer late in regulation. The Celtics tied it before the third quarter and Denver again Leonard and Paul George would many superstars.” He put the Heat ahead again clock even started again. Derrick overcame a double-digit deficit lead them to their first-ever That’s debatable. in overtime — and then Bam Jones Jr. was called for an away- to shock the Los Angeles Clippers conference finals — and beyond. The 7-foot Jokic had a monster Adebayo finished it off with the from-the-play foul while Miami 104-89 in Game 7 on Tuesday But LA’s stars fell flat. game with 16 points, 13 assists night. “It hurts. It hurts. But we and 22 rebounds, which were the biggest block of his career. defended the inbounds pass, a most by a Nuggets player in an Butler’s three-point play with call where the Heat argued to no Denver became the first team move on,” George said. “Year in NBA history to rally from a 3-1 1 together, first run together, of NBA playoff game. He broke his 12 seconds left put Miami up for avail that he got shoved instead. record of 19 that he set last season good, Adebayo blocked Jayson Tatum went to the line, tied the series deficit twice in the same course we wanted to win this. But and shared with Marcus Camby. Tatum’s dunk attempt in the final game with the free throw, and postseason. The team beat Utah in we’ve been very optimistic about In a familiar trend, the Nuggets seconds and the Heat rallied time Boston all of a sudden went from Game 7 in the first round. us being together and building found themselves down by 12 in and again to beat the Boston needing a score to being able to “Those guys stepped up on the something going down the road.” the first half. They also trailed Celtics 117-114 in Game 1 of run out the clock. biggest moment,” said Malone, Leonard finished with 14 points 61-54 with 10:50 let in the third the Eastern Conference finals on Miami wanted a traveling call who turned 49 on Tuesday. “You on 6-of-22 shooting, while George when they caught fire. Tuesday night. when Tatum got the ball with Kemba Walker’s basket with about 7 seconds left. His 3-pointer 23.2 seconds left in overtime put was short, and to overtime they COVID: It’s been six months since Boston up by one, before Butler went. (From Page 5) muscled his way to the rim for Boston started fast by running This is not normal. But it›s a score while getting fouled by out to a 24-11 lead, only to see evolved into a sort of Covid Tatum. The Celtics went to Tatum Miami slow the Celtics down normal, which we’re dealing on the ensuing possession, only to by going to plenty of zone and with, badly. watch him get denied by Adebayo. getting enough stops to allow On Friday, Fauci told And the Heat — down by 13 their offense to start clawing NBAndrea Mitchell we’re not in the first quarter, down by 14 in back. The Heat scored 37 points done. Not by a long shot. He said the fourth — struck first, ending in a 10-minute span of the second we will continue to claw our way Boston’s seven-game streak of quarter — and the teams went into past the virus, but we won’t be Game 1 wins. halftime knotted at 55. back to normal for more than a Tatum scored 30 points for The biggest Heat lead of the year the Celtics, Marcus Smart had 26 second half came early in the “I believe that we will have a points, Walker had 19 and Jaylen third, 61-56, after Butler got a vaccine that will be available by Brown added 17. Goran Dragic short hook to fall. the end of this year, the beginning had 29 points, Jae Crowder scored Then Boston got rolling again. of next year,” he said. 22, Jimmy Butler scored 20 and The Celtics outscored the Heat But he added that getting But their actions will spread the historians believe squandered a Adebayo had 18 for the Heat. 27-10 over the final 8:17 of the the vaccine produced and the virus. And that will kill people. chance to stop Adolf Hitler before Miami’s Tyler Herro was third quarter, Smart scoring 10 population inoculated will take People insisting that it is their he reached a point of maximum one assist shy of a triple-double in that stretch to match the entire time. personal right to not wear a mask danger. — finishing with 12 points, 11 Miami output by himself, and the “If you’re talking about getting who go into public enclosed This, on the eve of September rebounds and nine assists. Boston lead was 83-71 going into back to a degree of normality places are likely killing people. 11. (Speaking of anniversaries, Boston led 85-71 early in the the fourth. Miami shot 6 for 22 in which resembles where we were CNN’s Jim Acosta asked it’s been a year since the first fourth and kept the lead for almost the first quarter to get into trouble, prior to Covid, it’s going to be people at a Trump rally why they revelations about Trump’s all of the final period — until then 6 for 20 in the third to get into well into 2021, maybe even refused to wear masks. meddling in Ukraine, which Butler connected on a 3-pointer a bigger mess. towards the end of 2021.” Trump thinks he’s Churchill. ultimately led to his impeachment Not good news. The story that He’s not. this past January.) made my stomach churn most this At a rally on Thursday, Trump Nineteen years ago, President week was the one about the drug mangled history to put himself in George W. Bush was leading the company AstraZeneca pausing its league with Winston Churchill nation through the 9/11 terror vaccine trials. and Franklin Roosevelt. CNN’s attacks, another event that briefly The other one was this story Stephen Collinson called that brought the country together, then about at least three teachers dying poppycock. Churchill mobilized left it terribly politically divided. from Covid-19 after returning to his country to fight evil. Trump Trump should have taken a the classroom. tried to blow the virus off. lesson from Bush, who chose to And this: Adults getting Covid Collinson writes: lead the country into a war based are about twice as likely to say The comparison doesn’t hold on flawed intelligence. Trump they’ve dined at a restaurant. up since Churchill left his country now says he opposed that war. What we’ve learned about in no doubt of the challenge ahead Facing his own crisis, though, ourselves when he became prime minister he’s utterly failed to protect the The horrible trade we’re in 1940, warning of an “ordeal homeland. making every day. Inching back of the most grievous kind” and Rather than protecting his toward normalcy will kill people. adding, “We have before us many, supporters, he’s holding mask- Maybe not someone you know. many long months of struggle and free rallies in battleground states. But we must all realize that suffering.” Rather than helping parents American lives will end because Trump never came close to a find ways to safely keep their kids kids are at school. similar steeling of national resolve learning, he’s threatening school The sick bargain Covid has at the start of the pandemic. His districts. exposed about all of us. There›s choice to look away from the Rather than maintaining a certain amount of death we›re threat and hope it would just pass confidence in the medical and willing to accept. actually has more in common with public health system, he’s making College kids are cavorting another British Prime Minister false promises about testing and on campus because that’s what of the era, Neville Chamberlain, vaccines. college kids do, and even shutting who elected not to confront the And rather than acknowledge campuses won’t stop them. The rising Nazi menace in 1938 in any of it, he’s blaming others. vast majority of them won’t die. appeasement policies that many Still.