WEEKLY ISSUE @FilAmNewspaper www.filamstar.com Vol. IX Issue 590 1028 Mission Street, 2/F, San Francisco, CA 94103 Email: [email protected] Tel. (415) 593-5955 or (650) 278-0692 July 30-Aug 05, 2020 PH rejects claim Sabah 1 year visa-free entry now part of Malaysia to Taiwan includes PH By Macon Araneta By Daniel Llanto FilAm Star Correspondent FilAm Star Correspondent FILIPINOS and nationals from three other countries can continue THE PHILIPPINES’ top diplomat rejected claims that Sabah is to enjoy traveling to Taiwan without visa for one year starting August now part of Malaysia as the Malaysian foreign ministry announced 1, 2020 until July 31, 2021. that Kuala Lumpur stopped paying cession money to the heirs of Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)made the decision in a the Sultanate of Sulu to indicate that Sabah is now its full- bid to promote its New Southbound Policy which allows visa-free entry to fledged territory. foreign nationals from the Philippines, Thailand, Brunei and Russia.. Foreign Affairs Sec. Teodoro Locsin Jr. on July 27 slammed In a statement, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office a photo caption issued by the US Embassy in Manila that (TECO)in the Philippines stressed that the extension is intended to designates Sabah as part of Malaysia, negating the strengthen Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy. Philippine’s historical claim to Sabah. Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein (Photo: Facebook) ■ TO PAGE A7 (Photo: Wikipedia) ■ TO PAGE A7

Duterte says no to US

bases’ return to Subic TRUMP UNLEASHES COVID-19 CURE US NEWS | A3

PH BEHIND ASIAN COUNTRIES IN RECOVERY PH NEWS | A4

Subic Bay (Photo: Youtube)

Pres. Rodrigo Duterte (Photo: Facebook) By Daniel Llanto to do nothing on the maritime row with FilAm Star Correspondent China over the West Philippine Sea, the reason cited in the US plan to re-claim its presence in the Philippines. ADOPTING what seemed to be a Duterte lately eased up on his an- hardline stance, President Duterte shot US, Australia, Japan ti-US rhetoric as he ordered the process down a reported plan in Washington of abrogating the bilateral Visiting Forc- to bring back the US bases to Subic, es Agreement suspended but said allow- saying this would lead to a war that ing US bases at this time would “ensure warships to deter may result in the “extinction of the that a war breaks out because there will Filipino race.” be atomic arsenals to be brought in.” NEW HOROSCOPE COLUMN In his fifth state of the nation ad- HEALTH & LIFESTYLE | A13 dress (SONA) on July 27, Duterte said ■ TO PAGE A7 China in Indo-Pacific he won’t allow US bases in Subic Bay By Macon Araneta destroyer for a “trilateral exercise” with the same air of finality as his intent FilAm Star Correspon- as an effort to improve cooperation 4 protesting state prison death dent in keeping international waters “free and open.” It follows maritime drills IN EFFORTS to keep interna- toll, immigration detention between a US Navy carrier strike tional waters “free and open,” five group, led by USS Nimitz, and Australian warships have joined Indian warships near the vital Ma- American and Japanese navies in arrested at Governor’s mansion lacca Strait trading route, sending a conducting military exercises in the strong signal to Beijing against the FAIR OAKS – A group of 14 people COVID in detention. Philippine Sea in a reciprocal show backdrop of a violent India-China were arrested at the suburban man- Dozens of additional supporters of strength as tensions grow over border stand-off last June 15. sion of California Gov. Gavin New- also rallied, painted a street mural China’s maritime ambitions in the The fatal face-off took place som. reading “Newsom: Free Them All,” Indo-Pacific region. when soldiers from the Indian The group, organizing under the chanted and played drums on site. An Australian Joint Task Army clashed with troops from the banner of the California Liberation As of press time, those arrested Group, led by HMAS Canberra, People’s Liberation Army close to Collective, includes several commu- were still being held in the Sacramen- joined the USS Ronald Reagan Car- nity organizers who are undocument- to jail. California Highway Patrol, the rier Strike Group and a Japanese ed, as well as immigration attorneys ■ TO PAGE A7 Gavin Newsome (Photo: Facebook) whose clients are at risk of contracting ■ TO PAGE A7 A2 FilAm Star July 30-Aug 05, 2020 July 30-Aug 05, 2020 FilAm Star A3 US News Trump bets on Trump national COVID-19 vaccine for security advisor tests political shot in arm positive for COVID-19 US PRESIDENT Donald Trump vowed to defeat Katie Miller, and Kimberly Guilfoyle, a top fund- the coronavirus by “unleashing American scientific raiser for the Trump campaign and his elder son’s DONALD Trump’s national security advisor and Moderna. genius” as he toured a COVID-19 vaccine facility in girlfriend. tested positive for COVID-19 Monday, as the The government is buying up stocks of their the swing state of North Carolina on Monday. president prepared to visit a North Carolina facil- vaccines even before they are proven to work or Trump appears to have pinned his hopes on Results by November? ity where one of the leading vaccine candidates is be effective, in order to remove financial risk for the swift emergence of a successful vaccine to both The US has spent more than $6.3 billion since being manufactured. the firms involved and speed up their delivery. contain the country’s still raging epidemic and March to fund vaccine development efforts under Trump has placed his hopes in the emer- Operation Warp Speed aims to deliver 300 revive his faltering re-election hopes. Operation Warp Speed. gence of a successful vaccine by this fall to both million doses of a vaccine by January 2021 -- and “We will achieve a victory over the virus by The program is unabashed in its aims to pro- contain the country’s still raging coronavirus Trump has made no secret of the fact that his goal unleashing American scientific genius,” he told cure vaccines for the American people first -- unlike outbreak and revive his faltering election hopes. is to immunize America first. reporters at Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies in European leaders who have called for COVID-19 National security advisor Robert O’Brien is This is far from the rhetoric coming from Morrisville, hours after it was revealed national drugs to be a “global public good.” the latest and most senior White House aide to European officials, who have called for a vaccine security advisor Robert O’Brien had tested positive. Pharmaceutical newcomer Moderna, which, contract the virus. to be a “global public good.” The facility has been awarded a contract to alongside AstraZeneca and two Chinese firms is He “has been self-isolating and working from Last week, the US signed a $1.95 billion mass produce an experimental vaccine developed among those furthest in its development timeline, a secure location off site,” the White House said deal with US pharma giant Pfizer and Germany’s by Novavax, as part of a multi-billion dollar govern- began the final stage of its clinical trial Monday. in a statement, adding that there was “no risk of BioNTech for 100 million doses of their vaccine, ment initiative dubbed Operation Warp Speed. The trial is being co-conducted by the National exposure to the president or the vice president.” the biggest deal to date. The plan involves investing heavily in leading Institutes for Health (NIH) across the United States Others who have been previously infected “Hopefully the approval process will go very pharmaceuticals to aid their development and man- and is expected to enroll approximately 30,000 include Vice President Mike Pence’s spokeswom- quickly, and we think we have a winner there,” ufacturing efforts, with the goal of delivering 300 adult volunteers. an Katie Miller, and Kimberly Guilfoyle, a top Trump said. million doses of vaccine by January 2021. Participants will get two doses of the vaccine fundraiser for the Trump campaign and girlfriend “We also think we have other companies It’s “never been done before, but we suspect it’s given 28 days apart. of Donald Trump Jr. right behind that are doing very well on the vac- going to work, and work very well,” added Trump, The first volunteer, a Black woman identified The United States is by far the worst-hit cines, long ahead of schedule.” who later donned a black mask and toured the lab. as Robyn, participated in a video chat hosted by the country in the world, with more than 4.2 million The United States is by far the worst-hit coun- NIH on Monday, telling viewers her friends and confirmed cases and nearly 150,000 deaths. Results by November? try in the world, with more than 4.2 million con- relatives had initially told her “it was a bad idea.” Though the number of new cases has leveled Moderna, one of vaccine makers that is firmed COVID-19 cases and nearly 150,000 deaths. “And the reason for that was because in the Af- off for the past few days, the US has so far failed furthest ahead in its development timeline, Though the number of new cases has leveled rican American community, we are all familiar with to push its curve down, as other nations have began the final stage of its clinical trial Monday off over the past few days, the US has failed to push the Tuskegee experiments,” she added, referring to done through lockdowns and physical distancing. in collaboration with the National Institutes of its curve down as other nations have done through a 40-year-study the US conducted on Black men to Trump’s chief of staff Mark Meadows artic- Health. lockdowns and physical distancing. see the effects of untreated syphilis. ulated the White House’s strategy to ABC News The trial will be conducted across the United Trump’s latest comments confirmed that the The men involved were kept in the dark about on Sunday, telling the channel that masks weren’t States and is expected to enroll approximate- administration believes that, in America’s case, only cures on purpose. the answer. ly 30,000 adult volunteers who do not have a vaccine can help. But, added Robyn, she was encouraged by “It’s not masks. It’s not shutting down the COVID-19. “It’s not masks. It’s not shutting down the laws that are now in place to prevent a repetition, economy. Hopefully, it is American ingenuity that Participants will get two doses of the vaccine economy. Hopefully, it is American ingenuity that and motivated by the desire to help others against a will allow for therapies and vaccines to ultimately given 28 days apart. will allow for therapies and vaccines to ultimately disease that disproportionately impacts communi- conquer this,” he said. A notable irony of the process is that, given conquer this,” White House chief of staff Mark ties of color. Trump will visit Fujifilm Diosynth Bio- the rampant nature of the US epidemic, results Meadows told ABC News on Sunday. An irony of the process is that, given the ram- technologies in Morrisville, North Carolina on could come far sooner than the two years the trial The virus has also repeatedly penetrated pant nature of the US epidemic, results could come Monday afternoon, which has just been awarded is set to run. Trump’s inner circle, with O’Brien the latest and far sooner than the two years the trial is set to run. a contract to manufacture Novavax’s experimen- Daily new cases have plateaued around the most senior White House aide to test positive. Daily new cases have plateaued around the tal vaccine. 66,000 mark for the past few days. He “has been self-isolating and working from a 66,000 mark for the past few days, making it more The US has spent more than $6.3 billion “It’s a really optimistic scenario. It could be secure location off site,” the White House said in a likely that trial participants will be exposed to the since July to fund vaccine development efforts November,” CEO Stephane Bancel told CNBC on statement Monday, adding that there was “no risk virus sooner rather than later. under Operation Warp Speed. Monday. of exposure to the president or the vice president.” “It’s a really optimistic scenario. It could be Leading contenders include established “Again, at this stage, it’s impossible for us to Others who have been previously infected November,” Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel told pharmaceuticals like Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer know precisely. It will depend on the event rate, include Vice President Mike Pence’s spokeswoman CNBC on Monday. (AFP) and AstraZeneca, as well as upstarts like Novavax the attack rate of infection.” (AFP) A4 FilAm Star July 30-Aug 05, 2020 PH News Moody’s sees PH Almost 2k additional recovery to lag behind jeepneys to start plying other Asian countries NCR roads — LTFRB MANILA, Philippines — Almost 2,000 jeepneys T337 Libertad, Pasay – Pasay Rd. By Beting Laygo Dolor ous situation, he added. Contributing Editor Cochrane pointed out that on a three-month that are found roadworthy were allowed to T341 Paco – Sta.Mesa Rtda via Nagtahan moving average basis, “exports are down by over return plying 17 routes in Metro Manila starting T342 Pier South – Sta. Ana via P. Faura THE GOVERNMENT may be expecting too 35 percent on a year-to-year basis as of May.” Wednesday, July 29, the Land Transportation T345 Navotas – Recto via Heroes Del 96 much when it predicts an economic recovery This drop is the sharpest downturn in the Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said T346 Gate 5 – Greenhills Shopping Center next year equal to or even greater than last year’s Asia-Pacific region matched only be India’s ex- on Monday. Loop growth, following the severe damage caused by port downturn, he said. LTFRB said 1,943 additional jeepneys were The transport agency said jeepney driv- the global Covid-19 pandemic. Thus, while the rest of the Asia-Pacific allowed to ply the following routes: ers must put up their QR code issued to their Although two or three consecutive quarters region can expect a gradual recovery from the T106 MCU – Sangandaan operator on their vehicles while plying their of recession is to be expected, the Duterte ad- third quarter onwards, the Philippines will be an T109 Novaliches – Rizal Avenue via A. Bon- routes. ministration targeted a return to growth for the exception. ifacio “The operator may secure their QR Code by economy beginning in the fourth quarter of this According to Cochrane’s report, “All coun- T111 Tandang Sora – Visayas Avenue via downloading it from the LTFRB website at www. year, then moving at a faster pace beginning in tries within the Asia-Pacific region are expected Quezon City Hall ltfrb.gov.ph starting tomorrow, 28 July 2020, at the first quarter of 2021. to enjoy a positive economic bounce in the third T112 Monumento – Paco, Obando via M.H. 3:00 pm,” read the statement. International rating agency Moody’s Analyt- quarter except for the Philippines, which has Del Pilar Jeepneys must have a fare worth P9 for the ics, however, said last week that this will not be suffered the longest and strictest lockdown in the T114 Quirino Highway – Sta. Lucia first four kilometers and P1.50 for succeeding region and whose lockdown in the region and the case. T203 Crame – Cubao via Murphy kilometers, LTFRB said. whose count of Covid-19 cases has accelerated In a report to local media, Steve Cochrane, T204 Crame – Q. Mart via P Tuazon, E. Jeepney owners are reminded to follow Moody’s chief economist in the Asia Pacific this month.” Garcia health protocols such as checking of body region, said the Philippines would most likely lag Data from the Department of Health stated T214 SSS Village, Marikina – Cubao, Quezon temperature, wearing of face mask and gloves behind its peers in the region in terms of recov- that as of July 24, the total Covid-19 infections ery. nationwide had exceeded 76,000 with the death City and operating at a maximum of 50 percent Despite one of the longest and toughest toll at nearly 1,900. T215 Parang,Marikina – Marikina (TP) via capacity. quarantines in the world, Covid-19 infections Cochrane said the most important policy Fortune Last July 2, LTFRB allowed over 6,000 continue to surge and this will likely cause the moves that the Philippines needed to take should T216 Guadalupe (ABC) – Taguig via Tipas jeepney units to return on 49 routes in the Na- country’s economy to shrink by up to 3.1 percent be “to bring the spread of Covid-19 under control T217 Calumpang – Cubao via P. Tuazon tional Capital Region while the general communi- this year, his report said. and reduce the number of new cases on a sus- T304 Ayala – Guadalupe (Ibabaw) via JP Rizal ty quarantine was in effect (inquirer.net) Only last month, Moody’s projected the con- tained basis.” traction of the Philippine economy would be held Only then can the Philippine government down to a manageable 1.8 percent. broadly open up the economy again, he said. Prior to the global pandemic, Moody’s had The Moody’s chief economist for the region expected the country’s economy to grow by 6.9 said the lockdown will hurt household spending, percent this year, about a full percentage point which comprises some 75 percent of the econo- from the growth experienced in 2019. my. Cochrane said he expects a weaker recovery “Households will work to replenish depleted for the country in 2021, at 5.2 percent from the savings rather than spend on goods and services previous estimate of 6.2 percent. that are not essential,” he said. The revised forecast took into consideration Meanwhile, with the Philippines’ growing the extension of the lockdown to various parts of dependence on international travel and tourism, the country, after it was only enforced in Metro not much relief can be expected that sector. Manila and the rest of the main island of Luzon Global travel and tourism across the Asia in mid-March. Pacific region will be the slowest to recover as Economic disruptions were, therefore, more restrictions are extended up to 2021, according pronounced than originally believed, according to to Cochrane, who said that this was significant Cochrane. “for small open economies of Hong Kong and Another factor that will affect the country’s Singapore and for tourism-dependent economies growth is the “very sharp” drop in exports, which such as Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, will most certainly aggravate the already precari- Thailand and Vietnam.” July 30-Aug 05, 2020 FilAm Star A5 PH News

the Philippines but spent more on their COVID for the income of households, businesses and responses. local governments while P464.4 billion went to Faster PH economy recovery “Our neighboring countries who aren’t brag- non-health-related measures including emergen- ging that much about (creditworthiness), they’re cy subsidy program for low-income families and actually doing more to help their people and their the wage subsidy program for micro, small and economy,” Africa said. medium enterprises (MSMEs). with direct conversion from The ADB’s COVID-19 Policy Database also The remaining P58.6 billion went to indicated that the Philippines has allocated an health-related support including the purchase of estimated P1.07 trillion, or an equivalent of about medical supplies and assistance to health workers yuan, not dollar, to peso 5.9 percent of the country’s GDP, for its economic and COVID-19 patients. response to the pandemic since July 13. As of July 27, the Philippines logged 1,657 By Corina Oliquino Almost half of the amount or P523 billion new COVID-19 cases bringing the total number to ber of the Philippine RMB Trading Community (48 percent) went to the government’s support 82,040, with 16 deaths and 359 recoveries. FilAm Star Correspondent (PRTC), a community of 14 banks with a mission of promoting direct peso-yuan exchange.” MANILA -- Bank of China Manila country head “Our confidence in the continuous growth in Deng Jun believes the Chinese economy’s recov- RMB clearing volume comes from the increasing ery in the second quarter of 2020 with a gross do- trade volume between China and the Philippines. Duterte accuses Drilon of mestic product (GDP) growth of 3.2 percent after There are many upcoming investments from Chi- contracting 6.8 in percent the first quarter due to na to the Philippines that will be cleared in RMB the COVID-19 pandemic is a “positive indication and we will continue to promote RMB as a pay- having obligations to Lopezes for all other countries on the road to recovery.” ment and settlement currency for the trade and Deng said the Philippine economy’s recovery investment activities between the two countries could last through the first half of 2021, noting the by highlighting it as an efficient and cost-saving By William Casis country ranked first in Southeast Asia in terms payment currency,” Deng said, reiterating the FilAm Star Correspondent of growth rate of renminbi (RMB or the Chinese bank’s optimism about the future of RMB in currency Yuan in international context) clearing the Philippines despite the economic slowdown SENATE Minority Leader Franklin Drilon on volume as of the end of June and ahead of coun- caused by the coronavirus pandemic globally. July 27 resented accusations against him by tries like Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia. COVID response and its impact to the econ- President Rodrigo Duterte that he was lawyering The Philippines ranks as the twenty-second omy for the Lopezes, s of the media giant ABS-CBN largest RMB clearer among 46 countries and In another report by Rappler, the Philippines which shut down its operation after failing to get regions around the world, according to data from ranks fourth among countries with the smallest a renewal of its 25-year franchise. the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial coronavirus economic response in terms of share In taking the cudgels for ABS-CBN, Drilon Telecommunication (SWIFT) network following of GDP. stressed his primordial concern was the freedom a total volume of RMB cleared in the Philippines Data from the Asian Development Bank’s of the press and the thousands of employees who that spiked to 138 percent to 302.51 billion Chi- (ADB) COVID-19 Policy Database found the would lose their jobs. nese yuan. “per capita distribution of the total coronavirus “The issue was freedom of the press. The Deng said the growth could be attributed packages launched by the Philippine government Lopezes were just incidental. And the issue was to the increased awareness about the benefits of ($197) so far also trails behind smaller Southeast that nobody will lose their jobs — the 11,000 em- using RMB as a settlement and payment currency Asian economies, such as Brunei ($742) and ployees of the ABS-CBN. That was what I fought between China and the Philippines Timor-Leste ($200).” for,” said Drilon. “More and more enterprises are finding that Non-profit think tank IBON Foundation’s Drilon also said his effort was not out of a direct conversion of RMB to peso, instead of Executive Director Sonny Africa, on a phone sense of obligation. “ I have no debt to them. (We converting it first to US dollar, can help save on interview with Rappler on July 23, said the gov- come from the same province) but other than friction costs and hedge foreign exchange expo- ernment is still not spending enough to revive the that, we (are) not together. sure risks,” Deng said. economy. He said he was just fighting for the right of The Development Budget Coordination “(The government) really has to spend amid the public especially now that there’s a need for Sen. Franklin Drilon (Photo: Facebook) Committee, on the other hand, sees the economy the worst economic crisis and decline in Philip- more information from news outlets. rebounding next year with a GDP growth rate of pine history. The government has to step in to “And I believe that ABS-CBN is one of the ly say that I have nothing to do with it. That’s the eight to nine percent after it contracted 0.2 per- spend but it’s really not spending,” Africa said, media organization which can give us informa- truth,” explained Drilon. cent in the first quarter following the enforcement noting the current position of the government tion on this. That was the context of my saying According to Drilon, he was no longer at of the enhanced community quarantine in the reflect its apprehension about spending and “too not to close ABS-CBN,” he said. ACRRA when the said Lopez contract with the middle of March to slow the spread of COVID-19. much regard for creditworthiness.” Reacting on the question of the President if government was signed. Economic managers forecast a GDP contrac- “Truth be told, there’s no stimulus happen- it was a part of the team from law firm ACCRA The Senate leader said he had never been tion of two to 3.4 percent this year, ending more ing. We are really in an austerity mode. In a time which helped the Lopez’s water concession enter a lawyer for any contract which the Lopezes en- than two decades of positive growth since the when both the local and global economies are into a contract with the government, Drilon tered with the government. 0.5 percent contraction in 1998 due to the Asian crashing, when the only institution you have that strongly denied any involvement in this. At the start of his SONA, Duterte also took financial crisis. has the resources to intervene chooses not to in- “With straight face, I can face the whole potshots at Drilon for pushing an Anti-Political In a report by The Philippine Star, Bank of tervene, it’s a huge sin of omission,” Africa added, country and say, I have no involvement there. Dynasty Law while citing his daughter, Davao China Manila is the “officially designated RMB pointing out that countries such as Indonesia In fact, until now, I have not yet seen that con- Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and her other chil- clearing bank for the Philippines and a mem- and Vietnam both have lower credit ratings than tract. I have nothing to do with it. I will repeated- dren. A6 FilAm Star July 30-Aug 05, 2020 Opinion Street Talk PerryScope Why China The Filipino and wants Fuga Tagalog movies Island badly

GREG B. MACABENTA PERRY DIAZ

Y ARTICLE, The Third Person Pinoy, In all of them, the various facets of the Pinoy TRATEGICALLY located between defense along the Second Island Chain right into character were laid bare, complex yet simple, a elicited many interesting reactions, Taiwan and the northern Philippines, America’s doorstep, Guam; thus, opening the Mmainly about how my depiction of the study in contradictions. Fuga Island in the Babuyan archipelago in entire Pacific Ocean to Chinese penetration. Pinoy - of ourselves - rang so true. The many I got into the movies in the waning days of S the Luzon Strait provides an important role in years that I spent in the Philippine movie indus- the big studios and the emergence of the star-led preventing China from entering the gateway to One-China Policy try also gave me interesting insights into the psy- independents. The Big Three all had a stable of Western Pacific and beyond. It’s a known fact One needs to know that since the Philip- chology of the Filipino. Indeed, Tagalog movies contract stars, the most beautiful and the hand- that whoever is in control of the Luzon Strait pines recognizes a One-China policy; it consid- present a microcosm of Philippine life and of the somest creatures in captivity. could easily establish military superiority over ers Taiwan as a province of China. In the event people who make up our nation. I wrote about LVN’s Doña Sisang de Leon had Nida Blanca, the vast Pacific Ocean. of war between Taiwan and China, the Philip- this back in 2008. Allow me to share it with you. Delia Razon, Tessie Quintana, Charito Solis, Last year, China offered to develop Fuga pines’ recognition of Taiwan as part of China would put the Philippines at odds with the U.S. If you want to understand the paradox of the Carmencita Abad, Lita Gutierrez, Nestor de Villa, Island into an industrial park complete with who is obligated by treaty to defend Taiwan. Filipinos back in the homeland, try Tagalog mov- Mario Montenegro, Rogelio de la Rosa, Carlos medical school and hi-tech industry. It will be named “Smart City.” But here is the caveat: With Chinese President Xi Jinping vowing to ies. Much of what our people are can be better Salazar, Armando Goyena, Leroy Salvador, Ama- It will be for the exclusive use for Chinese. No “reunite” Taiwan with the mainland by military do Cortez and Eddie Rodriguez. Plus her “poul- appreciated in the context of life on the movie lot Filipinos allowed. means by 2020, China has only five months left and on the silver screen. try” – the newly-recruited starlets, Luz Valdez, Eventually, the island could become an ex- to invade Taiwan. Beautiful and coy. Rough-hewn and uncouth. Lourdes Medel, Marita Zobel, Mila clusive domain of China that could do whatever And this puts the Philippines in a precarious Gifted. Mediocre. Warm and hospitable. Pug- Ocampo, Bernard Bonnin, Guy Donato, Rob- she wants to do in the island. That means that geopolitical situation because of the Philippines’ nacious and undisciplined. Hardworking. Lazy. ert Campos, Noel Villaroman and Lou Salvador, the current 2,000+ Filipino residents of Fuga treaty alliance with the U.S., which obligates the Diligent. Irresponsible. Religious. Superstitious. Jr. Island would have to be relocated to another is- U.S. and the Philippines to come to each other’s Faithful. Adulterous. Joyful. Sad. Tagalog movies Doc Pinggot Perez of Sampaguita nurtured land or to other parts of the province of Cagayan defense in the even of hostility between the U.S. personified. Susan Roces. Amalia Fuentes, Daisy Romual- where the town of Fuga is a part. and China. And should Fuga by that time is al- Pepito Perez, scion of the Sampaguita Pictures dez, Romeo Vasquez, Juancho Gutierrez, Eddie The Cagayan Economic Zone Authority ready controlled by China’s military, that would certainly put the Philippines right in the middle and Vera-Perez Productions clan and brother-in- Gutierrez and Jose Mari, even while the studio’s (CEZA) said it signed seven deals with Chinese of U.S.-China war. law of former speaker and presidential candidate premium property, Gloria Romero, Lolita Rodri- businesses planning to invest $3.9 billion in projects first unveiled at the Belt and Road With cross-straits tensions rising, Philip- Jose de Venecia, once asked me why Erap Estrada, guez, Rita Gomez, Luis Gonzales, Ric Rodrigo and Initiative Forum in Beijing. CEZA Administra- pine security experts are suspicious of Chinese also a candidate for president at the time, was so Dolphy dominated the firmament. tor Raul L. Lambino said the signing event was investment deals facilitated through state-owned Premiere Productions, in far off Caloocan, popular with the masses, despite being known as a “highly successful (and) brought new invest- companies to surround or even facilitate mili- womanizer and a good-time guy. the kingdom of Doña Adela Santiago and, sub- ment and empowered countries, including the tary action against Taiwan in the near future. “Think of it in terms of Tagalog movies,” I sequently, Cirio Santiago, had the macho men Philippines, participating in China’s Silk Road Philippine military officials recently described suggested. “How would you cast Joe de V? As the and the dark exotic stars. Jose Padilla, Jr., Carlos project.” the northern Philippine islands—including Fuga slick, college-bred son of the haciendero, right? Padilla, Efren Reyes, Leopoldo Salcedo, Jose Ro- – as “strategic features,” since they can poten- And what about Erap? Wouldn’t you cast mulo, Eddie del Mar, Anita Linda, Olivia Cenizal, Smart City tially control access to the Luzon Strait, which him as the canto, boy with the good heart, who’s Leonor Vergara, Lani Oteyza and Alicia Vergel, The plan alarmed the Philippine Navy after connects the South China Sea and the Western always defending the poor? Guess who will win along with new discoveries, Zaldy Szhornack, it was announced that CEZA had announced Pacific. the hand of the farmer’s daughter.” Ronald Remy and Shirley Gorospe. And there was through a news headline in its website: “Chi- With China’s renewed interest in Scarbor- ough Shoal, the U.S. State Department issued Pepito got my point. De Venecia lost, of the Lo’ Waist Gang of Larry nese firm invests $2B on Cagayan isle.” The a stern warning that any attempt by Beijing to course. And Erap won by a landslide. We all Santiago Productions, led by a teenager announcement said: “A $2-billion ‘Smart City’ on Fuga Island here will be constructed under physically occupy Scarborough Shoal would be a know what happened to his presidency. And yet, named Fernando Poe, Jr. a memorandum of understanding between the “dangerous move” and would be met with “last- Those were the days when you could tell a the masses adore him to this day. CEZA and the Xiamen-based Fong Zhi Enter- ing and severe consequences.” I spent my teenage years inside a movie villain from a hero because the latter sported a prise Corp.” The State Department also repeated U.S. studio and absorbed these insights like a sponge. moustache and the former were all tall-nosed This development has alarmed Defense Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s remarks that Starting out as a feature writer and becoming tisoys. The dark-skinned indios were usually Secretary Delfin Loenzana, who had earlier said the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty associate editor of a movie magazine, I also wrote extras, bit players and comedians. that Chinese plans to build economic and tour- (MDT) covered the South China Sea, citing “any screenplays for LVN Studio. “Barkada,” my first The Big Three could not have anticipated ism zones on Fuga Island, as well as on Grande armed attack on Philippine forces or public story and screenplay, was about teenagers. I was the change in the psyche of the Tagalog movie- and Chiquita islands in Subic Bay, would make vessels in the area will trigger mutual defense 17. My second assignment was LVN’s anniversary goers. While they clung to the stereotypes, these the Philippines vulnerable to Chinese spying. obligations.” offering, “Casa Grande,” a trilogy revolving around were being inexorably shattered. Joseph Estra- He also said that the Chinese might also use the It’s interesting to note that retired Supreme Court senior associate justice Antonio Carpio an old mansion. It was directed by Manuel Conde, da, the classic anti-hero, barged in and tore up islands to stage “adverse actions” within Philip- had earlier warned that China would reclaim Dr. Gregorio “Yoyong” Fernandez and F.H. Con- the template. And then came Jess Lapid and Jun pine territory. “The current threat to Taiwan is currently Scarborough Shoal as it is a crucial component stantino. I wrote the screenplay of two of the three Aristorenas, who could pass for cargadores at from the west. If China establishes its footprint of their plan to declare an Air Defense Identifi- stories and was Yoyong’s assistant director. the pier. in Fuga, the threat would also be from the cation Zone (ADIZ) in the South China Sea. But the ultimate stereotype smashers were Unbelievably, I wrote over 200 films, mostly south,” the defense official added. He said that China may “very soon put up” for LVN, Tagalog Ilang-Ilang Productions and Diomedes Maturan and Nora Aunor. What???? And this brings to the fore the question: air and naval bases on Scarborough Shoal. He Junar Productions, some of them really good They’re stars??? But he’s pangit!!! And she’s pan- What would prevent the Chinese from con- also said that this is the next stop in China’s ones. “Casa Grande” was one of them. So were dak, pango, morena!!! verting Fuga island into a secret military base reported plan for ADIZ in the South China Sea. “Daluyong,” directed by Ishmael Bernal, “Nar- Yeah, yeah, yeah. But they were the biggest complete with missiles, radar, armed personnel, He said, “When China hinted it will establish an dong Putik,” which revived the career of Ramon boxoffice draws in town! Adored by the movie aircraft, and gunboats like what it did with the ADIZ over South China Sea, it only meant one Revilla, “Sabotage” and “Crisis,” both directed fans whom film director and national artist Lam- reclaimed islands in the Spratly Archipelago? thing: China will very soon put up an air and by Eddie Garcia and both the biggest hits in the berto Avellana, had once patronizingly called the Remember, once China starts deploying military naval base on Scarborough Shoal.” Manila Film Festival, and “Elias, Basilio at Sisa,” bakya crowd. assets on Fuga Island, it would be hard to expel Carpio said that without an air and naval base, ADIZ couldn’t be enforced over the South which won the Rajah Soliman Best Picture trophy them. And it would have unimpeded access in that same festival. through the Luzon Strait, which would provide ■ TO PAGE A7 China with the capability to attack the U.S. ■ TO PAGE A7

compared with a month ago. “We could certainly use an assist from our federal partners,” Brown As I See It said. But her administration has been frustrated by the lukewarm responses it has received from the The Opinions expressed by our writers and Trump administration. contributors do not in any way reflect the opinion We have been fighting the virus for nearly six of the management of Fortune News Media Inc. To defeat COVID-19, months now but there is no clear cut solution to win the game. Most states are having problems Fortune News Media Inc. implementing their plans to counter the pandemic Publisher we need a national but somehow they are struggling to implement their moves on the ground and having minimal Harvey Barkin mandate and a plan support from the top. Editor-in-Chief Former CDC Director Tom Frieden was over- heard saying: “You need federal leadership, and Edwina Aniag that’s been lacking.” Vice President for Marketing and Operations ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO The White House is still struggling to put out a consistent message about the threat posed by Gary De Guzman E HAVE seen and have observed that istration’s federalist philosophy has helped create the virus and how best to combat it and they have Vice President for Community Relations despite all the measures and precautions chaos across the South and West.” been sending mixed messages in the approach to Wbeing instituted by individual governors They further noted that “Every governor is fully combat the virus. and local executives, the pandemic is still in the out there on his or her own working to build the Geoffrey Julian Authors Zeke Emanuel, Neera Tanden, Creative and Production Manager surge! The numbers continue to rise and even dou- same programs that are being built next door,” Topher Spiro, Adam Conner, Kevin DeGood, Erin bled compared to when we had it for the first time. said Reed Schuler, a senior advisor to Democratic Simpson, Nicole Rapfogel, and Maura Calsyn said: The numbers are rising because not all are Washington Gov. Jay Inslee. “The federal govern- Elpidio Estioko “The Trump administration has failed to develop following the guidelines developed by CDC. Local ment’s efforts range from a little bit of backup to a coherent, evidence-based plan to end the co- Atty. Crispin Lozano governments are either working individually or on not even being present.” rona virus crisis. Because the administration did Dr. Philip Chua their own without any federal intervention or even Because of these sporadic moves to address not take the pandemic seriously when cases first Ben Lou / Perry Diaz no support from their local executives, the mayors. the pandemic, there is an urgent call for a set of emerged in the United States, our response is now Federico Espiritu There are even governors who are not in unison national strategies to combat the virus, which is far behind that of countries such as South Korea; Columnists with their mayors or vice versa. Some even went absent at present. as a result, our death toll will be far higher.* The to court to resolve the issue of what to do locally to Latest news reported that New York Gov. authors recognized that a national and state plan is combat the virus and judges are ordering them to Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, expressed his frus- Macon Ramos-Araneta needed to end the corona virus crisis. enter into mediation. tration with the federal government’s pandemic As I See It, a consistent national policy with Corina Oliquino That is the state of the “war zone” all over the response on Tuesday. “The White House doesn’t a national mandate is the answer at this point in Daniel Llanto country in trying to combat corona virus, the most get it,” he tweeted. “Until we control this virus as a time. We need strong national leadership to imple- Correspondents dreaded pandemic the country is facing today. nation, the economy can’t fully recover. Where is ment a unified plan of action all over the country. What do we need? We need a national plan, a the national plan?” China had one and adjoining countries and they national mandate to defeat the virus! Even Rep. Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.), who were successful in suppressing the transmission. Writers Dan Goldberg and Alice Miranda represents hard-hit Maricopa County, expressed Well, I think if there is no existing national @FilAmNewspaper Ollstein whose article was published in Politico similar frustration. “How can you have national policy; maybe we can adopt the guidelines formu- said: “Leaving the nation’s corona virus fight to success without having a national plan?” he said. lated by the CDC to be the national plan. If only FilAm Star is published weekly by Fortune News Media Inc. individual states has created gaping holes in the “How do you fight the worst pandemic in 100 we follow CDC’s guidelines national with a polit- www.filamstar.com public health response that have allowed the infec- years without a coordinated strategy?” ical backing on top, then we may be able to come tion rate to soar and death rates to rise once again. The article also noted Oregon Gov. Kate up better results instead of having the individual While countries like New Zealand and Germany Brown saying her state’s testing capacity has been Headquarters: governors implement their own plans. 1028 Mission St., 2/F, San Francisco, CA 94103; have taken a unified national approach to fighting overwhelmed by the recent surge in infections. Tel. (650) 278-0692 or (415) 593-5955 the virus — and are enjoying the fruits of a suc- The state is now averaging more than 270 new Email: [email protected] cessful mitigation strategy — the Trump admin- corona virus cases a day — a three-fold increase ■ TO PAGE A7 July 30-Aug 05, 2020 FilAm Star A7

Duterte.... From Page A1 PH... From Page A1 Subic Bay was one of the largest US naval physically the South China Sea. You know, unless In a series of tweets, Locsin berated the US “Until now, the claim on Sabah has only been facilities in the world before it was shut down in we are prepared to go to war, I would suggest that embassy for saying that Sabah is in Malaysia, cit- raised by those who claim to be descendants of the 1992 when the Philippine Senate terminated the you better just call it off and treat it us a diplomatic ing the Philippines’ claim to the territory. Sulu Sultanate,” he said. bases agreement with Washington. endeavor. China is claiming it. We are claiming “Sabah is not in Malaysia if you (need) to have In February 2013, Sulu Sultan Jamalul Duterte earlier this year ordered the termina- it. China has the arms; we do not have it. So? It’s anything to do with the Philippines,” Locsin said, Kiram III sent 200 armed followers led by his tion of the VFA with the US. However, the ter- simple as that,” Duterte said. reacting to a post from the US Agency for Interna- younger brother Raja Muda Azzimudie Kiram, 74, mination was halted in June amid the COVID-19 “They are in possession of the property. So tional Development (USAID) Manila’s distribution to Sabah in an effort to assert the Philippine claim pandemic. The VFA, which was ratified by the what can we do? We have to go to war and I can- of hygiene kits to Filipinos repatriated from Sabah. over the territory. Senate in 1999, governs the conduct of US troops not afford it. Maybe some other president can but Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Malaysia branded the action as an invasion who take part in military exercises in the Philip- I cannot. Inutil ako diyan, sabihin ko sa inyo,” he Hishammuddin Hussein earlier claimed his coun- and launched a deadly air and land assault against pines. added. try stopped paying cession money to the heirs of the invaders, armed with automatic rifles and ma- “I’ll just put on record my thoughts. I have Duterte said his administration works without the Sultanate of Sulu. He said Malaysia also did chetes. Kuala Lumpur also put Sultan Jamalul and nothing against America, I have nothing against fail to protect the country’s rights in the South Chi- not recognize and entertain any claim by any party his brother on its wanted list and branded them as China. But if you put bases here, (it would be) just na Sea, “neither beholden or a pawn to anyone.” over Sabah, which has been recognized as part of terrorists. like Manila in the Second World War, one of the “We broaden the boundaries of Philippine Malaysia by the United Nations. The Sultanate of Sulu continues to lay claim most devastated cities in the world,” the President diplomacy. We build productive ties with everyone “Malaysia and the Philippines have an un- to Sabah. It obtained Sabah from Brunei as a gift said. willing to engage us on the basis of equality and derstanding that the claim over Sabah will not be for helping put down a rebellion on Borneo Island. Under the 1987 Constitution, the Philippines mutual respect. And we redefine our relationships raised at any regional or international platform,” The British leased Sabah and transferred control “pursues a policy of freedom from nuclear weap- with our most important partners, placing the Hussein said. Malaysia stopped paying annu- over the territory to Malaysia after the end of ons in its territory.” economy in a far better position to advance our al cession money of RM5,300 through lawyers World War 2. “Now, plenty of critics, both sides, claim interests in an evolving regional order and emerg- representing the nine heirs of the Sulu Sultanate The Sulu Sultanate said it had merely leased nothing has been done to retake forcefully or ing global problems,” he claimed. since 2013. North Borneo in 1878 to the British North Borneo He said the payments were made based on Co. for an annual payment of 5,000 Malayan dol- a treaty signed on January 22, 1878, between the lars, which was increased to 5,300 Malayan dollars US... From Page A1 then sultan of Sulu, Sultan Jamal Al Alam, and in 1903. Baron de Overbeck and Alfred Dent of the British President Duterte has been quoted as saying Patrol Point 14 in the Galwan Valley of eastern Medcalf told The Telegraph, a British North Borneo Co. that he would never abandon the Sulu Sultan- Ladakh, more than 4,300 meters above sea level. broadsheet daily newspaper, the trilateral effort “Apart from the payments to the heirs of the ate’s quest to stake its claim on Sabah. “We are The three-sided military cooperation also suggested a reminder to China that a cordon Sulu Sultanate, Malaysia has never made any allowing proprietary heirs to talk with Malaysia. coincides with a warning from Washington that would be formed should confrontation esca- payment to the Philippine government,” Hisham- Since it is part of our claim, it will be there as our America will step up its challenges to Beijing’s late, adding, “It’s a potent reminder that the muddin said in a written reply to Chang Foon Hin land,” Duterte said. territorial moves in the region, where several combined navies of the quad – America, Japan, (PH-Kota Kinabalu), uploaded on the Parliament “What has been the policy will always be Southeast Asian countries, including the Philip- India, Australia – are more than enough to give website, according to a report by Bernama news- the policy of the government especially those for pines, Malaysia and Vietnam have overlapping China pause and that Beijing’s own confronta- paper. the interest of the country. We have to stake our claims. tional behavior has brought them together. It said Chang wanted to know if the Malaysian claim,” Duterte said. Last week, US Secretary of State Mike “China simply cannot control the vast In- government planned to stop paying the cession Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Pompeo formally rejected “most” of China’s do-Pacific region over which its oil lifelines and money to the Sulu Sultanate through the Phil- Panelo said the Philippines had not abandoned its maritime claims in the South China Sea. quasi-colonial ambitions have spread – it needs ippine government as a measure to end foreign claim on Sabah, rejecting statements that “there “Strategic balancing against China is ramp- to find a settling point before a crisis boils over.” interference in Malaysia’s sovereignty. was no claim” to the disputed territory. ing up dramatically in the Indo-Pacific region,” Recently, China has sparked alarm with said Prof. Rory Medcalf, the head of the Nation- increasingly assertive moves in disputed terri- Trump... From Page A1 al Security College at the Australian National tories of the resource-rich South China Sea and University and author of the newly-published experts have warned against Chinese dominance The policy is an initiative to enhance ties and Epidemic Command Center (CECC), based on the Indo-Pacific Empire, which outlines the power in a region where commercial shipping lanes are exchanges with countries in Southeast Asia, South development of the pandemic worldwide. struggle between China and the US. key to global trade and could be exploited for Asia and Australasia. “In line with epidemic prevention measures Earlier this week, two Australian warships economic coercion. “The agencies participating in the meeting, taken by the CECC, MOFA announced entry regu- docked at Subic Bay in Olongapo City for a four- Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei having evaluated the status and outcomes of the lations for foreign nationals during the epidemic,” day goodwill visit in the country and will con- and Taiwan all have claims over territory that measures so far, jointly made the following deci- TECO said. sions: From August 1, 2020, trial visa-free entry “The aforementioned adjustments to visa duct maritime exercises in the West Philippine Beijing maintains historic rights to and concerns for nationals from Thailand, the Philippines, Bru- measures for nationals from New Southbound Sea dubbed Passing Exercises (PASSEX). have grown over heavy Chinese investment in nei, and Russia will be extended for one year until Policy partner countries and Russia are based on The exercise will be held as the two visiting structures and facilities in the South China Sea, July 31, 2021,” TECO said. previously existing policies and do not take prece- warships – the long–range guided missile frigate dredging through rocks and reefs to expand But TECO clarified that since the MOFA has dence over temporary border control measures put HMAS Anzac and HMAS Success – sail out of contested islands. announced entry regulations amid the ongoing in place in response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Subic. As the US stepped up its freedom of navi- COVID-19 pandemic, such extensions do not it added. “The goodwill visit will be capped by a gation operations, China has bolstered its own take precedence over current border control rules Last February, the Manila Economic and Cul- send-off ceremony and the customary Passing military drills and last week deployed fighter jets geared at avoiding local coronavirus transmissions tural Office warned that Taipei may issue sanctions Exercises, which include a replenishment-at-sea to Woody Island in the Paracels, an archipelago in Taiwan. on Manila, including the removal of the visa-free operation wherein Philippine Navy personnel also claimed by Taiwan and Vietnam. According to TECO, the relaxation of the rules entry privilege, after Taiwan was wrongly included are invited to board the two warships while un- On July 26, Chinese state media reported may depend on the assessment of Taiwan’s Central in the country’s ban of inbound flights from China. derway to observe the activity,” Navy spokesman that the People’s Liberation Army also conduct- Capt. Lued Lincuna said. ed live fire drills at an unspecified location in the While in the country, the visiting Austra- South China Sea, launching more than 3,000 4 protesting... From Page A1 lian sailors will be engaging with their Filipino missiles at moving targets. counterparts in various activities, including a The South China Sea has become an in- Sacramento Sheriff and Newsom were consid- ernor to take action to save the lives of incarcerat- luncheon aboard Anzac, goodwill games and a creased source of tension between the US and ering “bail enhancements,” intending to keep ed people, writing a multitude of letters, holding traditional boodle fight which will be held on China, who have simultaneously clashed over organizers in jail longer. innumerable twitter chats, organizing zoom press April 14 at the headquarters of the Navy’s Naval the coronavirus pandemic, trade issues, indus- Outraged by the mounting death toll at San conferences and staging socially distanced rallies. Education and Training (NET) Command in San trial espionage, human rights concerns in Xinji- Quentin prison and rising infection numbers in Doctors and health advocates have repeat- Antonio, Zambales. ang and Tibet and civil liberties in Hong Kong. state prisons and immigration detention centers, edly warned physical distancing is impossible in Lincuna said Capt. Bradley White, Aus- On Tuesday, Mark Esper, the US defense the group is demanding that Newsom imme- any type of incarceration and that jails, prisons tralia’s defense attaché to the Philippines and secretary, told the International Institute for diately: release people in state prisons, stop and detention centers inherently pose severe Cmdr. Michael Devine, commander of the Anzac Strategic Studies that US aircraft carriers in the transfers from state and local custody to ICE and public health challenges. and Comdr. Grant Zilko, commander of Success, South China Sea and Indo-Pacific were “not go- between California prisons, stop the expansion Health officials called for a minimum 50 are scheduled to make a courtesy call on Rear ing to be stopped by anybody” and would contin- of immigration detention in California and hold percent reduction of occupants at San Quen- Admiral Allan Ferdinand Cusi, commander of ue to “assert international law” and defend the the detention industry accountable. tin prior to the pandemic. Even a federal judge the Navy’s NET. sovereignty of friends and partners. The action comes as campaigns urging mass called it the Newsom administration’s “signif- clemency for people in state prison are intensi- icant failure of policy and planning.” A recent From Page A6 fying and as immigrants detained at Mesa Verde move to release some 8,000 people from state Street Talk... and Yuba Detention centers are in the midst of a prisons – merely seven percent of the total With times getting harder and families mat. Their children and grandchildren became work stoppage and hunger strike, respectively. population - was widely denounced as too little, getting poorer, Filipinos needed to escape from big showbusiness names themselves, like Zsa Zsa The protest also falls some four months since too late. The releases do not go into effect until reality. Tagalog movies were the cheapest option and Robin. the Governor’s initial shelter-in-place order. In August 1, leaving people in prison vulnerable (marijuana and shabu were not yet in vogue). The rumor is that Ramon Revilla, a former the ensuing 130 days, doctors, health experts and to COVID for several weeks and could result in In Tagalog movies, the Diomeng Maturans member of the Philippine senate, holds the community groups have repeatedly urged the Gov- transfers of community members to ICE. and Nora Aunors of Sampaloc, Tondo, Iriga record of 80-plus children, one of them, Bong and Cebu had a chance to make it big. They just Revilla, being an incumbent senator himself, as needed talent and luck. They also needed to be well as a TV and film star. Perry... From Page A6 tough, like FPJ and Erap. And they had to have It’s not easy to understand Filipino movie gimmicks like Tony Ferrer, alias Agent X-44, and fans, either. How could you fathom how Erap China Sea because of a “hole in China’s radar, Japan” (May 3, 2015), I wrote: “In April 2014, anting-antings like those of Ramon “Nardong Estrada got elected president? Unless you real- missile, and jet fighter coverage” in the vicinity the U.S. reportedly asked the Philippines for Putik” Revilla. ize that these fans are the same simple folk who of Scarborough Shoal. access to military bases in eight locations – four In Tagalog movies, it was all right to break troop to the polls. ADIZ is defined by the U.S. government in Luzon, two in Cebu, and two in Palawan. The the law for a good cause. Besides, the cops always Indeed, the values by which they judge their as a designated “area of airspace over land or four sites in Luzon include the former U.S. bases in Subic and Clark. The other two are the Laoag arrived too late, anyway – when all the bad guys movie idols often have little relevance to the Ten water, in which the ready identification, loca- tion, and control of all aircraft is required in the Airport and Batanes Island. Surmise it to say, had been killed, the mystery had been solved and Commandments. This could explain why Dolphy interest of national security. Laoag and Batanes would provide the U.S. with humanity had been saved. is (WAS) admired for being a caring and loving With the Strategic Triangle and ADIZ the capability to prevent China from breaking The rewards were worth it. Respect. Wealth. husband and father – to his many women and achieved, China could then establish a strong through the Bashi Channel or any of the other Women. Plenty of beautiful women. And for the kids. springboard in its attempt to penetrate the two channels, Babuyan and Balintang, in the girls, millionaire playboys for husbands. Of course, there are exceptions. Otherwise, Luzon Strait, the gateway to the Western Pacific Luzon Strait. But due to the pending petition I had the unique experience of seeing Ta- how do you explain the affection and loyalty and the Second Island Chain from Japan down before the Philippine Supreme Court challenging galog movies from the perspective of the bakya enjoyed by Fernando Poe, Jr. and Susan Roces, to Guam to the Marshall Islands to Papua New the constitutionality of the Enhanced Defense crowd and that of an industry insider. I could who kept their lives relatively free of scandal and Guinea. And beyond the Second Island Chain is Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), the U.S. has empathize with the way the moviegoers fanta- never took advantage of their closeness to a sit- the vast Pacific Ocean all the way to the conti- to wait until the High Court issues a ruling. If sized over what they saw on the screen. But I ting president – a conflict of interest rule routine- nental U.S. the High Court rejects EDCA, just like when the also knew these objects of fantasy as they really ly broken by families and friends of Philippine But before all this could happen, three Philippine Senate rejected the retention of the were off the set, without makeup, living their presidents past and present, including supposed things need to happen: (1) Militarization of American bases in 1992, then the Philippines Scarborough Shoal, which would complete the will be taken out of the loop in the U.S.’s rebal- day-to-day lives, with their griefs and pains and paragons of virtue like Cory Aquino? Strategic Triangle; (2) Chinese control and mil- ancing of her forces in Asia Pacific. their simple joys. With their pretensions and Through the prism of Tagalog movies, these itarization of Fuga Island, which would control “Meanwhile, the U.S. has to make do with hypocrisy. contradictions may be easier to understand.On the Luzon Strait; and (3) invasion of Taiwan. “Pivot to Japan.” It’s anticipated that with the It’s not easy to understand movie people. the screen, the plots are endless and not neces- signing of the new U.S.-Japan defense guide- How could you explain the fact that the mothers sarily logical. Xi’s game plan lines, Japanese warships would soon be joining of Lou Salvador, Sr’s dozens of children, played One thing is certain. As hard as it may be to If Xi’s game plan were to be followed, China American warships in patrolling the East and mahjong on weekends while the kids bonded? accept, ours is a people in search of heroes. And, would soon invade Taiwan; however, the time South China Seas. Uncle Sam couldn’t have Lou, Sr. had over 50 offspring, many them stars so far, these icons can only be found in the mov- could be moved to 2021 or at a much later time gotten a better deal than that.” and starlets. ies and, in recent years, on TV. after the militarization of Scarborough Shoal On January 12, 2016 the Philippine Su- But he wasn’t the only one. Bulacan Gover- Is it any wonder, Erap became president? and Chinese control of Fuga Island. preme Court came out with a courageous nor Jose Padilla, Sr. sired dozens of good-looking (OR IS IT ANY WONDER THAT DUTERTE BE- While it might sound like it’s farfetched decision reaffirming the constitutionality of children who became film stars, like Pempe, CAME PRESIDENT, TOO?) (gregmacabenta@ from accomplishing all these, the mechanisms EDCA between the Philippines and the United States. In a 10 to 4 decision, the Supreme Court Carlos and Amado Cortez, who became a diplo- hotmail.com) are pretty much in place except the invasion of Taiwan. However, that doesn’t have to be done upheld the EDCA, paving way for the return of right away but it’s still doable since Xi would forward-deployed U.S. forces to select Philippine remain in power for a long time since his presi- military bases. As I see it... From Page A6 dential term has been extended indefinitely. However, U.S. interest in Batanes and Scarborough’s militarization seems to have Laoag City waned and the U.S. pursued other The guidelines CDC has put in place, if fol- infection waves and economic depression. taken precedence over the “other” things. Well, locations of interest. It now occurred to me why lowed to the letter with national political will, we We can win over the virus, if only we have a na- this can be achieved within two years. But once the U.S. had become interested in northern Phil- can win over the corona virus crisis! tional plan of action and a political mandate to do it! it is achieved, there are only two things left: ippines, particularly Batanes, a remote island at As many writers and concerned groups ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO was a veteran jour- Militarization of Fuga island and invasion of the mouth of the Luzon Strait. Control of Ba- and individuals, the public deserves a plan of nalist in the Philippines and a multi-awarded Taiwan. tanes is control of the Luzon Strait, the strategic action to ease and ultimately lift restrictions in journalist here in the US. For feedback, com- With Fuga Island taking center stage in the gateway to the Pacific and beyond. a careful manner that does not risk a resurgence ments… please email the author at estiokoelpi- geopolitical scene recently, another island that Now we know why China wants the Fuga of the epidemic, resulting in an endless cycle of [email protected]) came out was Batanes. In my column, “Pivot to Island badly? ([email protected]) A8 FilAm Star July 30-Aug 05, 2020 World News Canada’s Trudeau to India bans 47 more Chinese mobile apps INDIA has banned 47 more Chinese apps just variants of the earlier banned applications.” testify in ethics probe weeks after blocking the highly popular vid- There has been no official statement or order CANADIAN Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will CAN$300,000 to Trudeau’s mother, brother and eo-sharing platform TikTok and 58 others over released by the government about the ban but give much-anticipated testimony this week over wife for speaking engagements over the past few national security and privacy concerns, an infor- it has been widely reported across major Indian his role in awarding a government contract to a years. mation ministry official and media reports said media. charity that paid members of his family large sums Trudeau’s wife would have received Monday. Anti-China sentiment has soared since the of money, the House of Commons said Monday. CAN$1,500 for an event in 2012, before her hus- Tensions between the world’s two most-pop- deadly fight in mid-June, which sparked street Trudeau, who is at the center of an ethics in- band had become the head of the Liberal Party. ulous nations soared last month after a Himalayan protests and calls for Chinese products to be vestigation into the controversy, will testify for an Both Trudeau and Morneau have apologized border clash that left 20 Indian troops dead and an banned in the nation of 1.3 billion people. hour on Thursday at 3:00 pm (1900 GMT) before for not recusing themselves from the negotiations unknown number of Chinese casualties. Local media on Monday said 275 other Chi- the House of Commons Finance Committee. on the contract awarded to WE Charity. “We have banned 47 mobile apps from China nese apps could also be on the chopping block over This is an exceptional move for a head of Two of Morneau’s daughters were associated in this ongoing exercise which highlights the similar concerns, including the hugely popular government, and will likely be an eventful session with the charity, one of them as an employee. government’s seriousness about data privacy and “PUBG Mobile” game owned by tech giant Ten- for Trudeau. Last week, Morneau drew further backlash security,” the official, who asked to remain anony- cent. Last week, the two main opposition parties from the opposition when he said he had reim- mous, told AFP. From toys, cosmetics and handbags to home called for the resignation of Trudeau, who leads a bursed WE Charity for more than CAN$41,000 in “The order was issued on Friday. Most of appliances, pharma, auto components, and steel, minority government. travel expenses related to two humanitarian trips these 47 apps are banned for the same reasons China exports more than 3,000 products to India. Ethics commissioner Mario Dion, an indepen- he and his family took in 2017. as the earlier 59, and many were lite versions or (AFP) dent officer of parliament, opened an investigation Morneau made the announcement last into Trudeau and finance minister Bill Morneau Wednesday while testifying before the same com- after the former’s Liberal government awarded a mittee that will hear Trudeau on Thursday. The major contract to WE Charity to manage a student finance minister said he had sent the check that ‘Virtual kidnappings’ warning for scholarship program worth CAN$900 million very morning. (USD $662 million), despite ties between the orga- Unconvinced by his testimony and surprised nization and the two officials’ families. that he had paid WE Charity back for the trips just The group has since said it is withdrawing hours before his appearance before the House of Chinese students in Australia from the federal program, but the controversy has Commons, opposition Conservatives immediately ELABORATE “virtual kidnappings” are being Victims are “traumatised by what has occurred, continued to rage. WE Charity could have received called for his resignation. used to extort money from the friends and relatives believing they have placed themselves, and their more than CAN$40 million to manage the pro- Trudeau has run afoul of the ethics commis- of Chinese students Down Under, Australian police loved ones, in real danger”, New South Wales Police gram, according to Canadian media. sioner on two previous occasions since 2017 for warned Monday, after a spate of transnational scams assistant commissioner Peter Thurtell said. WE Charity has admitted paying nearly conflict of interest violations. (AFP) were reported. Over 1,000 “Chinese authority” scams were Police said that conmen claiming to be Chinese recorded last year by Australia’s consumer watchdog. authorities had netted millions of US dollars in Exiled Chinese dissidents and members of ransoms by scaring students into faking their own persecuted ethnic groups have also reported harass- Missing Rohingya migrants found alive in Malaysia kidnappings. ment from Chinese authorities, including threatening TWENTY-six Rohingya migrants feared to have ple-smugglers had transferred the Rohingya from a The scammers -- often calling in Mandarin and phonecalls. drowned off Malaysia after a treacherous boat large boat to smaller fishing vessels before ferrying claiming to be from the Chinese embassy, police or Chinese officials said no authority would contact crossing have been found alive, hiding in bushes on them ashore. consulate -- initially say the victim is accused of a students on their mobile to demand money. an island, an official said Monday. “We have identified the human smugglers, who crime in China or tell them their identity has been The warning comes as the university sector A search was launched at the weekend for the include a Rohingya man. We will arrest them soon,” stolen before threatening them with deportation or attempts to lure back lucrative international students Muslim refugees from mostly Buddhist Myanmar he said. arrest unless a fee is paid, police said. online and prepare for any possible relaxation of after a migrant travelling on the same vessel made it Many of the Rohingya who head to Malaysia The fraudsters then continue to threaten the virus travel restrictions. to the island and raised the alarm. depart from Bangladesh, where hundreds of thou- victim, often over encrypted message services, until Education is Australia’s fourth-largest trade He initially said the boat had overturned -- but sands are languishing in refugee camps after fleeing they transfer large sums into offshore bank accounts. -- behind iron ore, coal and natural gas -- with more later admitted that was not true, and the rest of the a military crackdown in Myanmar three years ago. In some cases, victims were told to cease contact than 500,000 international students enrolled last group were found late Sunday, coastguard chief Muslim-majority Malaysia has long been a with friends and relatives, then make videos of them- year, bringing about Aus$37 billion into the econo- Mohamad Zubil Mat Som told AFP. favoured destination for the minority, with many selves tied up and blindfolded with the conmen using my. All the migrants, who arrived on a small island working in low-paid jobs ranging from construction the footage to demand ransoms. The closure of its borders to travellers due to the off the northwest resort island of Langkawi, had been to agriculture. Police said at least eight cases have led to more coronavirus pandemic has crippled the sector and detained and would undergo coronavirus tests before But authorities have been seeking to block than Aus$3 million (US$2.1 million) in ransom heightened tensions with Beijing has further threat- being handed to immigration authorities, he said. boats from arriving since the start of the pandemic, payments this year in Australia. ened the flow of students to the country. Rohingya escaping persecution in their home- although some have made it ashore. Other incidents have been detected elsewhere Last month China’s ministry of education land frequently make sea crossings to Malaysia, but Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin had said around the world, and Australian police said the warned students about “multiple discriminatory authorities have been seeking to block them from that the Southeast Asian country can no longer take scams had been “developed considerably over the incidents against Asians in Australia” during the landing in recent months over virus fears. more Rohingya migrants as the economy struggles last decade by transnational organised crime syndi- pandemic and discouraged students from returning Mohamad Zubil said it was believed that peo- to recover following a strict lockdown. (AFP) cates”. to the country when the borders reopened. (AFP) July 30-Aug 05, 2020 FilAm Star A9 Stellar Events Millions of Jehovah’s Witnesses around the globe 11 Colma scholarship fund stream day two of “Always Rejoice”! convention recipients bared despite lockdown tian School JEHOVAH’S Witnesses and their invited guests For those participating in this momentous 7. Sean Goodwin who will attend College of in more than 240 countries will “gather” together event, it is the most important and personal deci- San Mateo virtually this weekend, August 1-2, for the third sion in any Christian’s life and is a public demon- 8. Leonardo Navarro who attends California session of their summer convention themed“Al- stration of their relationship with God. The dis- Polytechnic State University ways Rejoice”! cussion entitled How Your Baptism Leads to More 9. Sarah Walsh who will attend the University Typically held in stadiums, arenas, conference Happiness encourages all in attendance to rely on of Oregon halls, and smaller venues around the world, the God for support and strength. 10. Carmela Roque who will attend the Univer- Witnesses announced in April that the conven- The baptisms, customarily held in public ven- sity of Texas at Austin tion would be moved to a streaming platform in ues, will be performed in private locations to ensure 11. Aidan Figlietti who will attend the University response to the COVID-19 global pandemic. safety and proper distancing measures, adhering to of California, Santa Cruz” Here in the Bay Area, the convention was safety guidelines as outlined by health directives, O’Connor explained that January notices to scheduled to be held between May and August at including social distancing. apply for the scholarships were sent to every Colma multiple venues including the Santa Clara Conven- The next streaming session is scheduled for the household. Additionally, an announcement was tion Center. Nearly 60,000 attendees were expected. weekend of August 8-9. During the final sessions included in the February Live Wire and announce- Many delegates had planned to stay in local hotels on August 22-23 and 29-30, listeners will explore ments and applications were available at Town Hall, (L-R) Lucky Chances Casino Chair and and dine in nearby restaurants during their con- how they experience joy despite the injustices and the Colma Community Center, and Sterling Park vention weekend. The convention was cancelled in anxieties facing individuals today. The program will CEO Rommel Medina and General Manager, Dustin Chase Recreation Center. April, 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.] also feature the exciting conclusion of a two-part “Because of the COVID-19 shut down in mid- Respect for life and love of neighbor are the feature-length film Nehemiah: “The Joy of Jehovah By Jun Nucum March the application deadline was extended to June two basic principles in the Witnesses’ historic Is Your Stronghold.” 1st. This was announced via an insert in the May decision to shift to a streaming platform for this “Moving the convention platform online has THE COLMA Citizens Scholarship Fund an- Live Wire. We want Colma residents to know of this signature event. “We love our brothers and sisters many benefits,” said Hendriks. “Knowing our broth- nounced this year’s 11 recipients in the recent Town important opportunity to support their education,” and long to see them; however, the value of life is ers and sisters from around the world are viewing Council meeting. O’Connor said. far too precious to put anyone at risk,” said Robert the same information at a consistent time in their Colma Citizens Scholarship Fund Committee Applicants for academic tuition must meet Hendriks, U.S. spokesman for Jehovah’s Witness- country is strengthening to our faith. It brings our Chair Maureen O’Connor recalled the Fund was academic requirements of a 2.5 or better GPA and es. “We instituted virtual weekly meetings at the families together in an intimate setting, where they established by Lucky Chances Casino in 2000 and is also must meet community service standards as well onset of the pandemic, and have seen first-hand can allow the information to fully reach their hearts. fully funded by that business. as being a current Colma resident. how we can utilize technology to remain united and Additionally, it gives us the wonderful opportunity “Between 2000 and 2019 the fund awarded An individual may be awarded up to five schol- spiritually strong.” to review the sessions as many times as we like, $312,128 in scholarships. This year an additional arships over time and there may be only one resident The “Always Rejoice”! convention program has guaranteeing we don’t miss this vital information.” $10,500 is being awarded,” O’Connor said. “I want to receiving a scholarship per household at any one been divided into six installments, with the first two Each year many who are not Jehovah’s Wit- thank Mr. Rommel Medina, the owner and president time. released in July. What is typically the Saturday morn- nesses attend the annual conventions. There are of Lucky Chances, under the direction of his father, Unlike most scholarship opportunities, these ing program - now the third session - will discuss how more than 8.6 million active Witnesses worldwide, Mr. Rene Medina. They have been very supportive of scholarships may be requested individuals around the globe have found joy by help- yet the 2019 conventions had a peak attendance of Colma citizens and the community.” · for school tuition ranging from elementary ing others in a world that is divided and ever-chang- more than 14 million. With the program available The Scholarship Fund Committee, consisting of school through post-graduate education, ing. Also featured in this session is the highlight of any in 511 languages, this may be the most attended six members, four Colma citizens-at-large and two · for school books and materials, Jehovah’s Witness convention is the baptism. convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses to date. Lucky Chances employees who screened applicants · for continuing education, and their qualifications are: Perla Denina, Liz Taylor, · for work training and certification, and Maryann Zapanta, Erlinda Cachuela, Carmela · for self-improvement educational oppor- Mamaril and O’Connor herself. tunities. O’Connor recognized the 2020-2021 scholar- These scholarships not limited just for college ship recipients. She said Colma has every reason to tuition. be proud of: “Needless to say, Colma residents are very 1. Tatiana Pulido Gomez who attends Our fortunate. Lucky Chances is pleased to be able to Lady of the Visitation School support these Colma citizens in their educational 2. Hannah Balton who attends Skyline Com- and self-improvement endeavors,” O’Connor said. munity College “We all wish them the very best and know that as 3. Kathleen Garrett who is pursuing piano educated citizens with strong values and high stan- lessons dards they will contribute much to the community 4. Mei Luu who attends Golden Gate Univer- locally and beyond. sity On behalf of the town chamber, presiding 5. Gabriel Pacis who attends Our Lady of Per- Colma Mayor John Goodwin expressed his apprecia- Kuyang Jing Capicoy (seated in front) celebrated his 50th birthday with Mason brothers, petual Help School tion for what Lucky Chances Casino has done for the friends, American Canyon Mayor Leon Garcia and his wife last July 15. (Photo: Cris Enriquez) 6. Aiden Galli who attends Pacific Bay Chris- advancement of these promising students. A10 FilAm Star July 30-Aug 05, 2020 Business & may not know it yet, you may have actually caused use call centers which keeps your information her or your whole family harm, so man up and safe. We have a new program that reconstruct face it. If she decides to leave you, then that is a debts for half of what you would pay our compet- Tech News consequence of your actions. No deed is without itors. We also provide legal assistance that keeps consequence. 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Now serving the Caribbean Islands, Singa- the time clients with a bad gambling habit are afraid that she will be angry, maybe you should be Ating lesson, Sa bisyong sugal, ikaw ay di pore, Australia, New Zealand and the Philippines! not able to finish the program. Sometimes they but mostly it is not possible to get over this hump tatagal. Tawag na po sa 1-888-341-5234 at tutulun- enroll and are not even able to start. on your own. The help of a loved one can make If you need help in getting out of debt, call gan po namin kayo. If you really want my help then you must first your path to recovery a better one. Though she Debt Aid Consulting International. We do not Itama po natin ang mali! Google to extend work-from- Facebook says EU antitrust home policy to mid-2021 probe invades employee privacy GOOGLE will allow most employees to work FACEBOOK on Monday said it is asking EU such as “applause” or “for free” that could easily be from home through to July 2021 in response to courts to review “exceptionally broad” requests found in personal email messages or other ex- the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the tech giant by antitrust regulators there that would scoop up changes way beyond the scope of antitrust matters. said Monday. employees’ personal information. Regulatory probes can involve requests for In an email to employees, Google chief The US-based internet colossus maintained messages or documents bearing certain words or executive Sundar Pichai said, “To give employees it has been cooperating with a European Commis- phrases, with those seeking information inclined the ability to plan ahead, we are extending our sion antitrust investigation and will continue to do to craft wide nets and those being queried wanting global voluntary work from home option through so, but that the wording of commission requests them narrowly targeted. June 30, 2021 for roles that don’t need to be in casts a net so wide it will haul in Facebook em- A highly anticipated US antitrust hearing, in- the office.” ployees’ private messages and more. cluding top executives of four Big Tech firms, was The Wall Street Journal, which first reported The leading social network expects to give the originally set for Monday but has been postponed. the news, said nearly all of the 200,000 Google commission hundreds of thousands of documents, A notice filed by the House Judiciary Commit- according to Facebook associate general counsel tee set no new date for the hearing titled “Examin- employees and contractors worldwide would see for competition Tim Lamb ing the Dominance of Amazon, Apple, Facebook, an extension of the option which had been set to “The exceptionally broad nature of the com- and Google.” end in January. mission’s requests means we would be required The hearing would have conflicted with the The decision could signal similar efforts by Several tech firms have said they expect to turn over predominantly irrelevant documents memorial service for the late representative and other tech firms and large employers to extend to reopen their offices gradually in the coming that have nothing to do with the commission’s civil rights leader John Lewis, who will lie in state the precautionary policy amid growing fears months. Twitter meanwhile has said it would investigations,” Lamb said in response to an AFP in the US Capitol until Tuesday. about the risks of returning to workplace normal- inquiry. The antitrust hearing was called amid rising allow all employees to continue on remote work cy. Those documents include “highly sensitive concerns over Big Tech dominance, which has be- indefinitely. (AFP) personal information such as employees’ medical come even more pronounced during the coronavi- information; personal financial documents, and rus pandemic and coincides with investigations at private information about family members of the federal and state levels into the online giants. employees.” Chief executives Tim Cook of Apple, Jeff Bezos Facebook thinks such requests should be of Amazon, Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook and Sun- reviewed by EU courts, according to Lamb, and is dar Pichai of Google and its parent firm Alphabet asking the court to weigh in on broad search terms had agreed to participate in the session. (AFP) Gold hits record high of $1,930 per ounce on haven demand GOLD prices rocketed to a record high on Monday against most other currencies, have added to its with spooked investors rushed into the safe-haven attractiveness. as the coronavirus spreads across the globe, while “Strong gains are inevitable as we enter a the weaker dollar also provided strong support. period much like the post-global financial crisis The metal surged more than one percent to environment, where gold prices soared to record $1,930.48 per ounce in Asian trade, with analysts levels as a result of copious amounts of Fed money predicting it could soon break $2,000. being pumped into the financial system,” said With the disease showing no sign of letting Gavin Wendt, senior resource analyst at MineLife. up, traders have been flocking to gold, which is Demand for the commodity has also helped seen as a safe bet in times of crisis and uncertainty. silver more than double in value from its March Vast monetary easing measures put in place lows, up four percent Monday at $24.10 an ounce. by the Federal Reserve, pushing the dollar lower (AFP) KROSWORD (Source: Kappapuzzles.com) July 30-Aug 05, 2020 FilAm Star A11 Community Kommunity Kultura, August 15th at Awareness 4pm from Manilatown online via Zoom KOMMUNITY Kultura is our traditional Tausug ethnic groups of the Sulu Archipelago. Philippine music, movement and cultural educa- Dr. Ellorin will provide a general overview of the East Bay regional park district tion program usually taking place at San Fran- interconnectedness of the Tagunngu music and cisco’s International Hotel Manilatown Center the Igal/Pangalay performing arts genres. DURING the coronavirus pandemic, the East which mandates permanent funding of $900 but coming to you online via Zoom. Each of our Participants will come away with a deeper Bay Regional Park District has experienced what million annually for the national Land and Wa- family-friendly workshops focus on a new topic, understanding of the melodic and rhythmic patterns the district describes as an unprecedented surge ter Conservation Fund (LWCF). The bill now are oftentimes hands-on, and are accessible to all found in these group’s traditional repertoire as Dr. in visitor attendance, as people head to the parks goes to President Donald Trump, who has said ages and levels of ability. Ellorin presents an in-depth explanation of the musi- for healthy exercise and relief from stress. he will sign it. This month we are thrilled to be presenting cal practices of this region based on his ethno-graph- According to findings of a recent survey, The LWCF receives its money from royal- Ethnomusicologist Dr. Bernard Ellorin as he ic research with traditional native practitioners. 96 percent of the respondents stated that it ties paid by energy companies drilling for oil leads a comprehensive workshop on the Tagung- Please join us for this enlightening commu- has been important to keep regional parks and and gas on the Outer Continental Shelf. Over gu Gong Ensemble music of the Sama, Bajau and nity event by registering on EventBrite. trails open during the pandemic. Ninety per- the past 50 years, the program has provided cent believed that having access to the parks more than $16 million in funding for various and trails has been important to their health parks and trails in the East Bay Regional Park and wellbeing. And 94 percent believed the District, most recently for the $750,000 Bay Santa Clara County eviction moratorium parks will play an equal or greater role in their Point Restoration and Public Access Project, lives when the pandemic is over. awarded in 2017. Now, the district is conducting an online In general LWCF funds are used to expand extended through August 31 survey along the same lines, and would like to public lands, safeguard natural areas and pro- THE COUNTY’S commercial and residen- tenants of their repayment rights ​under the mor- hear from as many people as possible. The pur- tect cultural heritage sites nationwide. tial eviction moratorium has been extended atorium prior to initiating any repayment plan pose is to assist the district in developing ways In advocating full permanent funding of through August 31. Once the moratorium expires, with the tenant. Read the updated County FAQ for to mitigate the negative impact of the pandem- LWCF, the district has had the support of the all tenants will have up to six months to repay at more detailed information. You can call the Coun- ic, both while it is still a threat and afterwards, East Bay’s entire Congressional delegation. least 50 percent of the past-due rent and a fur- ty’s COVID-19 Business Call Center at (408) 961- when the coronavirus has been controlled and The Regional Parks Botanic Garden, locat- ther six months to repay all outstanding past due 5500, Monday - Friday, 8am-5pm, for any inquires people can get back to resuming as normal a ed in Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley, has rent. The County requires landlords to inform related to your business or workplace. life as possible. received the Frank Cabot Award from the North If you’d like to participate in the survey, go American Rock Garden Society. to the park district website, www.ebparks.org. The award is national recognition for a PG&E, local councils help communities prepare for wildfires At the top of the home page is a slide display public garden that features outstanding rock that changes every few seconds. When “Covid19 gardens and rock garden plants. Cabot was a SAN FRANCISCO — Pacific Gas and Electric Since 2014, and including this year, PG&E will Park & Community Survey” appears, click on major figure in American public gardens, and Company (PG&E) joined forces with local Fire Safe have provided $17 million to local Fire Safe Councils it. The survey is available in both English and was the founder of the Garden Conservancy. Councils to enhance the safety and preparedness and 501(c)(3) organizations to fund more than 300 Spanish. The Regional Parks Botanic Garden spe- of local communities in connection with the 2020 projects in Northern and Central California. Projects As has been widely reported, the Oakland cializes in the propagation of native California wildfire season. PG&E is providing $2.3 million to have included fuel reduction, shaded fuel breaks, Zoo has planned to reopen its doors at the end trees, shrubs and flowers. It’s located at the fund local Fire Safe Council and 501(c)(3) organiza- emergency access and wood-chipping programs. tions projects across 28 counties to reduce the threat This year, PG&E is providing funding to local coun- of July, after a months-long closure due to the intersection of South Park Drive and Wildcat of wildfires and help keep communities safe. cils and non-profits to complete approximately 41 COVID-19 pandemic. It’s great news for both Canyon Road. It is currently closed to the pub- “With the increased wildfire threat our state fac- projects in 28 counties. Projects must be completed animals and people. lic because of the pandemic. es, we all must continue to adapt to these challenges by November of this year. A list of Fire Safe Councils The regional park district is a partner with The park district’s virtual nature programs and find ways to reduce the risk of wildfire. We ap- and 501(c)(3) organizations receiving project funding the zoo, in that the park district’s 2008 Mea- continue, with all kinds of information and preciate our ongoing partnership with local Fire Safe is below. sure WW Local Grant Program has provided $4 activities on video at www.ebparks.org, thanks Councils and nonprofit organizations to complete million over the years for zoo capital improve- to the district’s naturalist corps. this important safety work. These projects create fuel Community Wildfire Safety Program ments. Measure WW is a bond issue that re- From art to zoology, you can view it all by breaks to protect communities, clear vegetation from In addition to partnering with local Fire Safe ceived strong support from park district voters clicking on “Digital Learning” when it appears evacuation routes, and help underserved customers Councils and 501(c)(3) organizations, PG&E is in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. And the on the serial slide show, or by clicking on the create critical defensible space to protect their homes preparing for wildfires through its Community park district joined the zoo in urging county “Digital Learning” display near the bottom of from fire across our service area,” said Andy Vesey, Wildfire Safety Program. The company launched and state leaders to allow the zoo to reopen the home page. PG&E Utility CEO and president. the program in 2018 as an additional precautionary with appropriate social-distancing protocols in And when you are actually out in the parks, “The California Fire Safe Council is pleased with measure intended to reduce wildfire threats and PG&E’s continued commitment to funding local Fire strengthen communities for the future. Through the place. please don’t forget to bring along a face mask to Safe Council wildfire mitigation projects. The flex- program, PG&E is bolstering wildfire prevention and For more about the zoo’s reopening plans, wear when social distancing is difficult on nar- ibility and immediate availability of PG&E funding emergency response efforts, putting in place new and go to www.oaklandzoo.org. row trails. The more we make a habit of mask allows for immediate use in communities as well as enhanced safety measures, and doing more over the Here’s more good news: The Senate and wearing, the safer we will be and the sooner matching funds for federal grants,” said Patty Ciesla, long term to harden its electric system to help reduce House of Representatives have both just we’ll all get through the pandemic. Thanks to executive director of the California Fire Safe Council. wildfire risks and to keep its customers safe. approved the Great American Outdoors Act, everyone for cooperating. A12 FilAm Star July 30-Aug 05, 2020 Legal & Law of status. we received four approvals of naturalization If actions are taken within 90 days of the applications, five approvals of Adjustment of person’s entry that are inconsistent with their visa, Status applications, two approvals of Petition it is up to the applicant to prove that they truly to remove condition on residence, one renewal intended to follow the rules of their visa when they of green card approval and one green card The danger of entered the United States or applied for their visa. application at the U.S. Embassy. Consular officers are given the directive to allow 8. For the month of November 2019, the person an opportunity to respond and prove we received approvals of one naturalization Preconceived Intent when otherwise. application, one renewal of green card, one If the activities occur outside of the new 90- Petition to remove condition on residence and one applying for visitor’s visa day rule, there is no assumption. However, if it adjustment of status. becomes clear that the intent was still invalid when 9. For the month of October 2019, we entering the United States, then the Consular received five naturalization application approvals BY ATTY. CRISPIN CADAY LOZANO officer may still seek to revoke the visa. and two renewal of green card and one DACA Note: This is not a legal advice. approval. 10. For the month of September 2019, HEN a person applies for a temporary their interpretation of a misrepresentation as it SUCCESS STORIES we received approval of two naturalization visa to the United States, a person must relates to persons inside the United States. They 1. For the month of June 2020, we applications, one adjustment of status and one Wactually have an intention to remain in the have rejected the concept of a 30/60 day rule and received approvals from USCIS two naturalization application to remove condition on residence. United States on a temporary basis and be limited have now instituted a flat 90 day rule. applications, two renewal of green card and one 11. For the month of August, 2019, we by the rules of that visa. Similarly, when a person The new 90-day rule now states that any adjustment of status. received approval from Immigration Court for enters the United States on a particular temporary “conduct inconsistent” with the status granted 2. For the month of May 2020, we received a waiver of misrepresentation for a client who visa (or visa waiver), they must again represent that within 90 days of entry will result in an assumption approvals from USCIS for three green card has committed marriage fraud. We also received they truly only intend to remain in the United States that there was a willful misrepresentation when renewals, two adjustment of status, and one approval from USCIS of two naturalization on a temporary basis and will abide by the rules of the person applied for a visa or entry to the United naturalization application. applications and two fiancé visa petition. the visa. Intending anything else is a material mis- States. DOS officers are instructed that, if they find 3. For the month of April 2020. we received 12. For the month of July 2019, we representation to Immigration Officers. that someone in the United States has applied for approval of one adjustment of status, three received approvals of three N-400 application Beforehand, two of the main agencies that permanent residence (green card) or otherwise removal of condition on residence and one renewal for Naturalization, one I-751 Petition to remove handle immigration matters – the Department committed some act inconsistent with their visa’s of green card. condition of residence with interview and two I-90 of State & the Department of Homeland Security intent, they must bring this attention to the DOS for 4. For the month of March 2020, we renewal of green card. – have been in agreement on how to determine a potential revocation of their visa. received six Adjustment of Status and three If you have immigration problems the Law person’s actual intent. The Department of State How will the change in policy be Naturalization approvals from USCIS. Offices of Crispin C. Lozano can help you find a (DOS) is the agency that manages and controls implemented? 5. For the month of February 2020, we solution before your problem gets worse which the U.S. Embassies and Consulates abroad. They The new 90-day rule refers to any activity received approvals from USCIS of five Adjustment could lead to deportation and family separation. have their own rules and guidance as to how to inconsistent with their status. This may include of Status application and three Naturalization Crispin Caday Lozano, Esq. is an active proceed with immigration applications, just as the working without authorization, enrolling in application. member of the State Bar of California, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) does for courses without authorization (for example, a 6. For the month of January 2020, we American Immigration Lawyers Association its own offices within the United States. person on a visitor visa), marrying a U.S. Citizen/ received approvals from USCIS of five Adjustment and San Francisco Trial Lawyers. He practices Without notice or warning, this decades old Permanent Resident and taking up residence with of status applications, three N-400 applications immigration law, bankruptcy and personal injury policy suddenly changed on September 1, 2017. them, even potentially overstaying their visa, or for naturalization and three fiancé visa application. law since June 1999. His contact phone is 1-877- The DOS just indicated that they have changed doing anything else that would require or change 7. For the month of December 2019, 456-9266, email: [email protected]

can also order “joint legal custody.” in the age of 10 to 13 were properly given The mother of my child always talks bad consideration. Please note that the Court is very about me. Would that affect my goal to gain full protective of children and rarely calls them to custody of my child? The family court mediator testify in custody proceedings. Child custody and especially the family law Judge are experts in Can we avoid a Court battle on custody? penetrating the accusations. The Judge normally Absolutely. Try to devise a feasible parenting plan. gets to the bottom of the issues. It’s not wise to You and your ex-spouse will be dealing with each solutions mudsling and hurl insults at each other in Court. other for as long as you are parents to your child – It only makes you look as if you are using your which could mean the rest of your life. You don’t child to gain custody. Be respectful and focused on have to love each other like you used to but you BY ATTY. JOHNSON LAZARO what is best for your child. need to be able to communicate and deal with each I have not seen my child in years. Can I other in a business-like manner to insure the best still get custody? The family law judge may not possible upbringing for your child. You not only instantly award you custody of the child. If you can avoid a court battle but also save on legal fees have not been a “hands on parent” during the and court costs. OUR LETTERS and calls on child custody child? The Court will look into what is in the best marriage, you may have to take incremental steps I was ordered to go to mediation. Would that and visitation were valuable in improving interest of the child. You must honestly look at the to resolve doubts about your parenting abilities. help my child custody case? Mediation is required our legal services in family law. Custody situation that your child is in and decide whether You may first get some visitation time and in many counties in the California. Sometimes Y gradually work your way to more custody. You’ll when one fails to show up to mediation, that and visitation are some of the most emotionally you would be able to provide a safer and nurturing difficult elements of divorce. The protection of environment than the other parent. need to prove that you can be a responsible parent parent’s request for custody may be denied. children in each case has become our first prior- What is legal and/or physical custody? If and comply with court orders. The next step will Mediation is meant to reduce the acrimony in ity. In each case it is important to look at the big you have legal custody of the child, you can make be to file a modification of custody. a child custody proceeding. It is also meant to picture. If the parents can agree on a plan without decisions on the child’s health, education and Can my child decide which parent to stay develop an agreement ensuring continuing contact intervention by the court, the family may be saved welfare. Sole physical custody means that the with? The child must be of sufficient age and with both parents that is in the best interest of a lot of aggravation and expense. The following is child will reside with and under your supervision. capacity to form an intelligent preference on child. Go to mediation. It would only help your a compilation of some of most common questions Sometimes the Court will order “joint physical custody. The Court will not only consider the custody case. It would show the court that you are on Child Custody cases. custody” which means that each parent will have child’s age but also his or her sincerity, bearing, a responsible parent and willing to comply with What’s the best way to gain custody of my significant periods of physical custody. The Court and degree of maturity. In some cases children the rules because you love your child. July 30-Aug 05, 2020 FilAm Star A13 Health & Health@Heart Lifestyle 16 and 18. These two sexually-transmitted viruses are responsible for about 70% of cervical cancers. How early should the vaccine be COVID-19 Update HPV, in one form or the other, afflicts about 20 given? million Americans. The other strains of the virus Students in grammar school, middle school cause painful genital warts, and sometimes, and high school should be vaccinated before they cervical cancers too. become sexually active, because once they catch HPV infection, there is no cure; herpes is for PHILIP S. CHUA, MD, FACS, FPCS How prevalent is cervical cancer? life. This was the recommendation of Dr. Gloria In the Philippines, there are about 5000 Bachmann, director of The Women’s Health HE COVID-19 pandemic has risen to and behaviors. new cases of cervical cancer each year. However, Institute at Robert Wood Johnson Medical almost 17 million, with nearly 98,000 new The most logical explanation why cancer of more alarming than that is the fact that there School in Brunswick, NJ., who said this vaccine Tcases in 24 hours worldwide, and about the throat has not diminished has been attributed are between 10,000 to 25,000 women walking is a “phenomenal breakthrough.” Prophylaxis 660,000 deaths. There are almost 4.5 million to the Human Papilloma virus (HPV), a bug around (not seen by physician) who have Gardasil vaccination comprehensively eliminates cases in the United States, with about 16,000 that causes a sexually-transmitted disease. HPV undiagnosed pre-invasive lesions in their cervix. HPV 16 and 18 associated non-invasive and new cases in one day, and about 152,000 deaths, is popularly known to cause genital warts and If diagnosed early, these women could be saved. invasive cervical cancer. The vaccine also cuts 400 of which was last Monday. Brazil is second most cancer of the cervix (mouth of the womb). For every four survivors of breasts cancer, there down infection with HPV 6 and 11, the causes of highest, with almost 2.5 million cases and 88,000 It has only been fairly recently when scientists are less than 3 women who survive cervical 90% of genital warts. deaths, and almost 3,000 new cases. The Philip- discovered and identified HPV transmission cancer, which shows how virulent cervical cancer pines has about 83,700 cases and almost 2000 through oral sex as an etiology of throat cancer. is. How about throat cancers? deaths (1,680 new cases). M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston Of the 45,000 head and neck cancers in the In our column in March, we warned reported that its research team found “the What causes cervical cancer? US each year, about 10,000 of them are oro- about the probability of a second or third wave incidence of throat cancer (in the United Human Papilloma Virus (HPV, also known pharyngeal cancers, and tongue cancers among of COVID-19 in the USA, which would be caused States) to be stagnant and even rising in some as genital herpes virus) accounts for most cervical young adults have also increased. The evident by people’s protests and demand for their civil populations, defying a downward trend in other cancers. At least 50% of sexually active men and conclusion is that the cause is the HP virus. rights and lack of self-discipline and reckless head and neck cancers linked more closely with women are infected with genital HPV, especially “Over the last five years, 35% of the throat behavior. The recent increases in the number of smoking.” those with multiple partners. There are about cancer patients treated at the M.D. Anderson cases in California (466,835, with 8549 deaths) The American Cancer Society reports that 20 million American men and women infected Cancer Center had no history of smoking, and and Florida (441,977, with 6,119 deaths) are a the greatest risk factors in head and neck cancers with HPV, many linked with abnormal pap tests, that close to 90% of patients who had never testament to people’s non-compliance to social are smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages, genital warts and cervical cancer. It is estimated smoked showed evidence of oral infection with distance and wear face covers. The massive 90% of them either smokers or tobacco-chewers that at least 10,000 new cases of cervical cancers HPV,” says Dr. Sturgis on Web MD. testing and high positive results are not to blame and about 80% of them also imbibed a lot of are discovered annually. Between half a million Vaccination against HPV among young for the spikes in the number of cases. If people alcohol. The good news is that a trend analysis to a million Americans have genital warts, girls and boys have been proven to be of great were more compliant and disciplined, the number in head and neck cancers in the United States transmitted thru sexual contacts. benefit in preventing the infection and the related of positives would be enormously less. More shows a decline the past twenty years, trailing a potential malignancy. people tested positive because they were careless decrease in smoking prevalence, which started in Is the cure for cervical cancer? The use of cling plastic wrap used in the and exposed to those infected. Social distancing the 1970s, by 10 to 15 years. Better than the cure! A vaccine (Gardasil) kitchen, placed over the woman (groin to groin), and facemasks have been proven very effective, The bad news is that oro-pharyngeal cancers that prevents cervical cancer, vulvar and vaginal has been advocated by some to prevent HPV together with discipline and personal hygiene. Its (which include the tonsils, base of the tongue and cancer that was approved by the US-FDA in 2006 transmission when oral sex is performed. Mouth, time we learned! soft palate, and side and back of the throat) have was found to be “effective 100%, in the short tongue, and other throat cancers could be as been up in some population in the United States, term, at blocking the cancer and lesions likely grave and deadly as most other forms of cancers. Oral sex and probably among people in other parts of the to turn to cancer” (like the pre-invasive lesions), The rate of throat cancer in the United States world who practice oral sex, where HPV takes its according to Gardasil manufacturer, Merck & Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac has not declined, compared to most head and toll. Co. “To have 100 percent efficacy is something Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical neck malignancies. I suspect that the statistics Sample of the vaccine referred to is Gardasil, that you have very rarely,” Dr. Eliav Barr, Merck’s could also be true, when extrapolated, for other lecturer/author, and Chairman of the Filipino United which is genetically engineered, and which blocks head of clinical development for Gardasil, told Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation countries, like the Philippines, since most infection caused by two of the more than 100 The Associated Press. The UK’s version of the in the United States. Websites: philipSchua.com and Filipinos are westernized in their lifestyle, habits, types of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), strains vaccine is known as Cervarix. FUN8888.com

always receive what you need. connections. Appreciate beauty and take care of Being the Practical Oracle, let me now consult money matters. Weekly mantra: I am filled with Star Gazer the Angels, the Goddesses and the Fairies about faith, hope, and love. abundance and prosperity. You see, the truth is in Cancer (June 21-July 22) Your sensitive the cards, so to speak. nature is an asset despite recent stressors. Use your Your messenger angels announce the arrival of innate intuition to grab ahold of opportunities. The abundant immense blessings and steady flow of support if you Weekly mantra: My cup overflows with bounty. keep your faith. They urge you to accept good into Leo (July 23-August 22) The Sun illumines your life with ease and grace. The abundance in your your sign starting this week. Happy solar return/ and prosperous life is material, psychological, emotional intellectual, birthday to you, royal lions! Weekly mantra: I bask and spiritual. Simply say, “Yes!” in the light and warmth of my ruler, The Sun. The Hindu goddess Lakshmi also comes to Virgo (August 23-September 22) Some Universe visit you to say that all your experience and all your things come easily to you at this time. Be not skills are rich with meaning and purpose. You will complacent, however, so that you don’t miss the see the evidence of your wealth in the world if you ones that have true and lasting value. Weekly BY BLES CARMONA-DE LA ROSA prime your mindset and open your eyes to perceive mantra: I can determine what’s important to me. your reality with positivity. Lakshmi, the goddess Libra (September 23-October 22) HEN it comes to abundance and prosper- your perception of the world. Is your mind filled of luck and prosperity, says that it’s time for you to Remember your vivid dreams then find a way to ity, this should be your mantra: “Abun- with thoughts of competition, or shortage? Then it’s share your good fortune with others. According to incorporate them into your waking life. Dive deep dance and prosperity begin with me.” time to replace these thoughts with those of hope, the “Goddess Power Oracle” by Colette Baron-Reid, and emerge rejuvenated. Weekly mantra: I seek W “She will show you how your good fortune multiplies guidance from within. If you recall the Bible story of the widow’s oil sufficiency and plenty. Dr. Ernest Holmes, founder in 2 Kings 4: 1-7 (NIV), then you know that this of the Church of Religious Science, does say this in when you apply gratitude, praise and a commitment Scorpio (October 23-November 21) If is a despairing woman who asks for the prophet his comprehensive book, Science of Mind, “We have to serve.” With the right frame of mind, you are a you find that the collective is limiting your self- Elisha’s help in paying her late husband’s debts. the right to choose what we wish to experience.” You magnet for miracles! expression, you may need to break away and carve Otherwise, her sons will be taken away as slaves by can always choose how to respond to the events in The fairies, being earth angels who help guard your own path. Set personal boundaries. Weekly creditors. Elisha asks the widow what she has in her your life. Therefore, choose abundance! Mother Nature, provide the most mundane oracle mantra: I dare to be true to myself. house, and she replies that she only has a jar of oil. The universe simply mirrors your choices and yet: You may receive an unexpected gift, cash Sagittarius (November 22-December At Elisha’s bidding, the widow asks her neighbors gives you more of what your mindset has deemed windfall, or spiritual gift at this time. Make sure, 21) You have high ambitions to attain financial for as many empty jars as they can supply. She then worthy of contemplating. In truth, the universe has therefore, that you are in a place of receptivity for stability but you’re wondering where to start. Break proceeds to fill all of them with oil. She kept pouring an infinite supply of the “goodies” called love, health, it – that you believe and “know” you’re worthy to down your goals into manageable portions. Weekly oil, and pouring, and pouring … until there is no wealth, joy, wisdom, and peace of mind. You know receive any abundance. There is plenty enough of mantra: I plan ahead to get ahead. empty jar left. The prophet then told her, “Go, sell what stops this flow? Greed and an ultra-competitive it to go around and you have as much right to it as Capricorn (December 22-January 19) the oil and pay your debts. You and your sons can attitude. Surely in our post-Covid-19 outbreak world, anyone else. As Karen Kay, author of the Oracle Power and philosophy fascinate you. Your mind is live on what is left.” you have realized that it is better to collaborate of the Fairies says, “Prepare yourself for incoming open to learning from new sources while using what This story should remind you that true rather than compete, better to activate sharing and abundance, and enjoy!” you already know. Weekly mantra: I learn from the prosperity is about more than what you receive, generosity rather than greed. Or maybe you were old and the new. want, or need. True prosperity begins at the level raised to believe that “money doesn’t grow on trees” YOUR WEEKLY HOROSCOPE Aquarius (January 20-February 18) Look Aries (March 21-April 19) Learn to choose of your thinking, As Doreen Virtue, Ph.D. used or maybe you’re not convinced that you deserve over business contracts. This is the time to share your battles so you don’t lose the war. Cultivate to say, “If you think of abundance as something happiness, success and others mentioned above. what you have. Don’t keep all that good stuff to serenity of mind despite unavoidable friction. that happens in the future, then it will always be You know what? When you change your yourself. Weekly mantra: I am a generous person. Weekly mantra: I am at peace. one day ahead of you. See, feel, think, and speak perception, the universe responds accordingly. Pisces (February 19-March 20) Partnership Taurus (April 20-May 20) You are not of abundance as something you already have in So how do you improve your circumstances in issues come up, needing to be resolved. An outsider easily surprised. This week, though, the depth and the present moment and that is what you will life? Be very grateful for what you already have looking in may provide much-needed perspective. breadth of your own emotions may take your breath experience.” and know that there is plenty more to come. Weekly mantra: I am a part of the solution. away. Weekly mantra: I am joyful and poised. By now it should be clear to you that you attract Share what you can with others because believe Find out more about Blesilda Carmona-De La Gemini (May 21-June 20) Venus in your what you believe! If you are to experience true me, there is enough for everyone. Believe that Rosa at www.stargazerbles.com, or emailher at: sign until August exhorts you to form intimate abundance and prosperity, then you must change the universe is unlimited abundance and you will [email protected]

or discussions about the plot. This can help you and to provide one-on-one telephone counseling stay busy, and keep you from stepping outside to to help tobacco users to adopt smoke-free living Ideas for a memorable smoke. style during this challenging time. Here are the 3. Plan a tournament language specific quitline information: Competition is one of the oldest forms of Mandarin & Cantonese summer transitioning to a entertainment. And winning feels just as good 1-800-838-8917 www.asq-chinese.org now as it did to folks living many years ago. Korean Competitions can bring out some really fierce, 1-800-556-5564 www.asq-korean.org smoke-free ‘new normal’ but hopefully friendly rivalries. Pull out the board Vietnamese games, find a deck of cards, play video or mobile 1-800-778-8440 www.asq-viet.org CHERI NG games with family members. You can also play ASQ service is free and nationwide. Please games with friends via video conferencing. 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While some like cooking, you can also order your favorite how to take a nice selfie or use those face filters users are welcomed to contact ASQ to receive states have lifted their stay-at-home orders, indulgent food to be delivered. Share the dish you on the phone. Learning new skills can help you advice and materials to help others quit. many local businesses are still not up-and-run- cooked or the food you enjoyed on social media to keep busy and distracted in order to get through Wishing you continued safety and good ning, which means it is harder to take normal connect with your friends and family members. cravings to smoke. health! summer vacations. The pandemic brings the You can also let them know that you would like We may be experiencing unprecedented About ASQ [insert specific name of the recognition that we need to adopt a “new normal” to start living a smoke-free life and are planning times, but we can take this opportunity to spend quitline]: with the outbreak in mind. to quit smoking. Gaining social support will help precious time with family—time we often can’t ASQ [insert specific name of the quitline] is Here are a few ideas to make an “at-home with quitting. find in our regular schedules. This also creates operated by the Asian Smokers’ Quitline (ASQ) summer” memorable and special while still 2. Enjoy a movie or TV marathon an excellent chance to take the first steps toward and funded by Center for Disease Control and adhering to social distancing guidelines. And Sometimes nothing is as relaxing as simply quitting smoking. Prevention (CDC). ASQ provides FREE evidence- while adopting a new routine to break the turning your home into an entertainment center If you feel pulled in multiple directions based smoking cessation services in Cantonese, smoking habit. for watching a movie marathon. Besides a movie during these difficult times and are finding it Mandarin, Korean and Vietnamese to Asian 1. Eat like you are on vacation marathon, you can watch a TV drama series or hard to adjust to the new normal, it is completely communities in the U.S. and eligible smokers Food is a great way to create the feeling a YouTube video marathon. You can still watch understandable. Why not reaching out for help? can receive a free two-week supply of nicotine that you’re on vacation. Bummed to miss out movies and shows together even if you are apart Asian Smokers’ Quitline (ASQ) understands patches. Studies have shown that smokers who on seafood from that beach vacation this year? from family or friends via chat applications. 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A14 FilAm Star July 30-Aug 05, 2020 Entertainment & Sports News Gary V’s ‘Shout For Joy’ music video on Instagram’s list of best practices AS GARY Valenciano is about to turn a year fiercer on Aug. 6, he can’t help but get sentimen- Marcial could fight in Pacman tal. Gary celebrates the joy of being given a new lease on life after his health scare two years ago. He was diagnosed with cancer after undergoing a card; Roach a possible trainer cardiac bypass surgery. Gary V went through five procedures and his diabetes made it all the more difficult. But he survived and is now cancer-free. That chapter of his life made the OPM icon aware of the importance of having an insurance plan. For him, insurance means assurance that you have a partner to help you during emergencies. So it’s only fitting that AIA Philam Life (AIAPL) tapped Gary V to be its brand ambassador, to inspire us Pinoys to protect ourselves so we will have peace of mind, especially during this pandemic. As Gary V’s hit song goes, huwag tayong “‘Di Na Natuto” after life’s trials so just like him, we will become Mr. or Ms. Pure Energy and be ready, willing and able to let the universe bring it on. Here’s my chat with Gary V: What’s the most creative thing you did during Gary Valenciano (Photo: Facebook) quarantine? My music videos! “ASAP” challenged us to execute them. However, I would love to contribute create our own music videos and I heard one of the ideas for somebody else to execute. But the them, “Shout For Joy,” was noticed by Instagram hardest thing for me now is to be able to do what International as they mentioned in an online others do, which is to go into a place, fearless because webinar. After Taylor Swift and John Mayer, that of good health, because even if I’m fully protected, video came in third on a list of best practices on my system and entire body have already been Instagram. I was so thrilled. compromised because of diabetes and other health If you would compose a song to cheer Pinoys challenges. So I have to really watch myself. Another up during this health crisis, what will the title be? tough thing is privacy. Being a public figure, people I actually just recorded a song, entitled always think that they own a piece of me. Everyone “Pwede Pang Mangarap,” produced by Thyro. It is thinks it is so easy to just make a video to greet meant to encourage people to buy from small and someone or agreeing to all the invitations, forgetting Manny Pacquiao (Photo: Facebook) medium enterprises to boost the economy. I am that sometimes I get tired, too. also writing a ballad to inspire people to carry on What are your sentiments about the ABS-CBN EUMIR Marcial could end up not only fight- “So yeah, Freddie could could be a great fit,” amid the health crisis. shutdown? ing in the undercard of the boxing legend who Gibbons said. “He has good record working with What’s the best and hardest part of being At first, we were all devastated, but because signed him to his first pro contract. He could Filipino fighters.” Gary V? of my faith, I know that God has His reasons and also have in his corner the person who guided Pacquiao has not fought since taming the The best part is that I have a wonderful family I just really need to trust His will. What pains me that ring icon to superstardom. brash and erstwhile undefeated champ Keith who loves me and God who will never leave me. the most is that the network had been cleared by all On Saturday, MP Promotions president Thurman last year in Las Vegas. I have been blessed with many supporters for the government organizations and yet its franchise Sean Gibbons said Marcial could be featured in Yet despite the long queue of reigning and my 37-year career. And despite everything that’s was denied. ABS-CBN has allowed me to become the next bout of his boss, Sen. Manny “Pacman” former champs wanting a piece of him, Pacquiao happened to me with my health, I’m still alive and like an ambassador when I’m given the chance to Pacquiao—and the two could even share a trainer. has remained noncommittal. And it’s not about able to do what I love, which is to step up onstage perform for OFWs (overseas Filipino Workers) for “That would be absolutely perfect,” said to change anytime soon. to perform. Also, that I have the equipment, TFC (The Filipino Channel)—a way of bringing a Gibbons, who sees the possibility of eight- “Not right now in the heat of the my Genesis team, and the means to come up piece of home into the homes of Filipino workers division champion Pacquiao making a comeback coronavirus; [the pandemic] needs to rapidly with something new and different online. I may abroad. So my heart goes out to them because that not have the biggest numbers, but at least I can was basically the only thing that they would look at about the same time Marcial sees action in his slow down [for Pacquiao to make a decision],” constantly feed people with something that will forward to when coming home from work. second pro fight. Gibbons added, citing the cases in the United inspire them, or things they never knew about Yes, you can watch the shows online, but And with Marcial expected to launch his States and Saudi Arabia, where Pacquiao has me—stuff that show people how human I am. there was something about the normal way of career in Los Angeles, having Freddie Roach standing offers to fight. The hardest part is that my health is hard just clicking your remote and seeing ABS-CBN as trainer seems a natural fit, too. Pacquiao’s Gibbons estimates Marcial could fight three to maintain and control. Also, there are ideas in no matter where you are in the world, watching legend was born in Roach’s Wild Card Gym at times before flying to Tokyo to represent the my head, but I don’t know if I’ll still be able to the news, entertainment and teleseryes that have the corner of Sunset and Vine in Hollywood. country in next year’s Olympics. (inquirer.net) accomplish them, or if I’m meant to be the one to become part of the Filipino culture. (inquirer.net) July 30-Aug 05, 2020 FilAm Star A15 Entertainment Vice, open to guesting Kapuso Heart Evangelista’s charity announces Stars in new digital show over 100 winners in tablet giveaway HEART Evangelista is following through with her commitment to give tablets for dis- and continue serving your old purpose of giving tance-learning needs. entertainment to them. So, the only way is through The actress’s project, BIG Heart PH, digital. Because of the lockdown and the fact that announced via social media yesterday, July ABS-CBN is not airing, it seems that a lot of people 27, over 100 names from around the country migrated to digital. who were eligible to receive a tablet with “Especially in my case, my audience misses mobile internet. seeing me on television. They’re looking for some Winners are set to receive a Cherry good vibes which I can bring to them but there was Mobile tablet with 900 MB internet data for no way. So, I thought, going digital is the answer” 15 days, as well as get the chance to speak The articulate celebrity is aware of the potential with Evangelista herself. of digital media. For a chance to win a tablet, applicants “You know, there are lots of things you can had to like the project’s Facebook page or do online. As I’ve mentioned earlier, we, as artists follow the Instagram account. They were have to find ways to reach out to our audience and required to send a private message with serve our purpose to them. I guess, this is my way of personal details to either of the social media doing so!” accounts, including why they needed the As compared to his previous Sunday night tablet. show on the Kapamilya network, Vice believes Applicants have to submit a copy of a that he can interview more stars in “Gabing-Gabi valid school ID, proof of enrollment from the na Vice” including those who come from the rival school and the latest payslip from a parent or station (GMA-7). guardian or a certificate of indigency. Those “I think it’s possible since this is digital and who made it to the shortlist were included in online. It’s not TV. The more, the merrier, right? a computer-generated raffle. Based on my experience with ‘GGV’, it came to a Evangelista launched the project on July point when we’ve already tapped all Kapamilya Vice Ganda (Photo: Facebook) 1. She revealed in June that she was able to stars as guests. The staff asks, ‘Who will be the next purchase 550 tablets by selling one of her By Joseph Peter R. Gonzales that we’ll interview?’ In the span of nine years, paintings. (inquirer.net) Heart Evangelista (Photo: Instagram) we’ve already exhausted our resources, so to speak. DESPITE the shutdown of ABS-CBN, followers of But we can’t do anything because it’s the system. Vice Ganda can still watch him on his own new- “So, now with ‘Gabing-Gabi na Vice’, I think Grace Poe looks back on Susan Roces’ career on her 79th birthday ly-launched digital network called ViceGanda.com. it’s just okay to invite stars from the Kapuso stable ph. In fact, on July 24, 2020, people were able to for variety. I’m sure it will be to the delight of the MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Grace Poe looked (She is not only the Queen of Philippine watch his latest show called “Gabing-Gabi na Vice.” audience. It will be fun to see me interviewing or back on the seven-decade career of her mother, Cinema but the queen of our lives. Happy During a recent digicon, the popular comedian-TV exchanging banter with other celebrities which is the “Queen of Philippine Cinema” Susan Roces, birthday, Mama!) host admitted that for a long time now, he has been something fresh before the eyes of the viewers.” as the actress turned 79 on Tuesday. Roces, who was born in Bacolod, got her contemplating to have content in the digital space. Interestingly, who are the GMA stars he has in In an Instagram post, the senator described first starring role in the Sampaguita Pictures “Actually, it was because of the lockdown why mind who he wants to interview? her mom as a “tunay na kaibigan, mapagmahal film “Boksingera” in 1956. I finally pushed through with my plan,” Vice avers. “Actually, there are lots in my wish list. Of sa pamilya, walang kupas ang ganda (a true In 1978, Roces bagged her first FAMAS “That time, ‘It’s Showtime’ wasn’t airing. So, I had course, there’s Heart Evangelista. I would also like friend, someone who loves her family, someone award for best actress in the 1978 film to find a means how to reach out to my audience. to interview Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera. whose beauty never fades).” “Maligno.” That’s the directive given to us by the ABS-CBN I was able to interview Dong in ‘GGV’ before but he Poe, in her post, also included snippets of She was married to “Da King” Fernando Poe management. was with Kris Aquino. I think they were promoting Roces’ films. Jr. from 1968 until his death in 2004. “Since, you’re at home because of the a movie. But as in solo, there’s still none yet. Then, I “Hindi lamang siya Reyna ng Pelikulang Roces is currently part of the long-running lockdown you need to find a way to still connect think an interview with Michael V would be great,” Pilipino kundi pati na rin ng aming buhay. ABS-CBN teleserye “Ang Probinsyano” starring to your viewers. You need to assert your presence ends Vice. Happy birthday, Mama!” Poe added. Coco Martin. (inquirer.net) 2020 Census: Making every voice heard in the Bay Area By Stephanie B. Kim missed – and are at dire risk of being left out once not only been disproportionately impacted by of prison and/or a significant fine and is required to Senior Director, Census 2020 at Unit- again. COVID-19 but are also currently responding to the carry an identification badge with the Department ed Way Bay Area Estimates show that for every person not census at only 50%. In places like San Francisco’s of Commerce logo on it. They are prohibited counted in the 2020 Census, California could lose Bayview and Hunters Point neighborhood, the from asking for confidential information such as $1,000 a year in federal funding for the next 10 number is closer to 40%. Statistics aside, an citizenship or immigration status, social security WE HAVE a once-in-a-decade opportunity to lay years. Counties throughout the Bay Area rely on undercount of any of these communities results numbers, bank account or credit card numbers. claim to what is rightfully ours in this country—a census-informed federal funding for education, in an incomplete and inaccurate portrait of our That said, it is best to respond on your own so fair say in who leads the political institutions that free and reduced school lunches, community community members, overcrowded classrooms, that no one is sent to knock on your door: online have the power to protect or harm us, and that health care, accessible transportation, and other underfunded services, and underrepresentation for at https://my2020census.gov/, by phone at 844- provide resources for fundamental human rights programs we rely on every day. Counties will policies that support our long-term recovery as a 330-2020 (a list of in-language options is available like health care, food, and housing. The nine simple be utilizing census data in the coming years for region. An undercount in any of these communities here), or by mail with a paper questionnaire. questions on the 2020 Census will inform how economic relief programs, public health research, is an undercount in the Bay Area and it affects all The census is so much more than an address- more than $1.5 trillion of federal funding is invested and to create policies to help the long-term recovery of us. based count; it’s a fight for every person to be seen, in communities – especially for those who histori- of communities hardest hit by the COVID-19 The good news is that there is still time, to be included, and to be valued in our diverse cally have been undercounted and underrepresent- pandemic. For example, Alameda County receives and there is a network of hundreds of nonprofit, community. When people are left out of the census, ed -- how voting district lines are drawn for the next 60 percent of its revenue from federal and state philanthropic, business, labor, and local their existence, contributions, and struggles are 10 years, and how many seats are allocated to the sources. If Alameda County is undercounted by just government organizations fighting to ensure a erased from the story of our diverse community. Bay Area in the U.S. House of Representatives. 3 percent, the county could lose $1 billion over the complete and accurate count of the Bay Area Resources and political power meant to support Bay Area communities are responding to course of 10 years for essential programs that are despite the challenging circumstances. However, them and give them a voice are assigned somewhere the 2020 Census in starkly disparate ways. As needed more than ever in the wake of COVID-19. time is quickly running out. Starting in August, the else. in past census counts, people who are of color, Unfortunately, we are seeing widespread U.S. Census Bureau will send Census Takers to visit If we each take three minutes to get counted– LGBTQ+ , low income, experiencing homelessness, disparities in response rates in communities across the homes of people who have not yet responded. and remind a neighbor to do the same—we can immigrants and refugees, and those with disabilities the Bay Area including San Francisco, San Jose, Every Census worker has sworn an oath to not make sure the 2020 Census represents all that the and who have young children have historically been and Oakland. East Oakland neighborhoods have share anyone’s personal information under penalty Bay Area is today and create a better tomorrow. A16 FilAm Star July 30-Aug 05, 2020