Weekend Balita- December 28, 2019

LOS ANGELES

VOL. XXVIII NO. 52 LOS ANGELES

December 28, 2019 - January 3, 2020

THE LEADING SOURCE OF NEWS AND INFORMATION FOR FELLOW FILIPINO-AMERICANS

“THE BEST DAYS ARE STILL TO COME!,” SAYS GAZINI — RP’S MISS UNIVERSE BET By ABNER GALINO

TOP STORIES Global News PH, Saudi set to ink treaty on repatriation of inmates 16  Clouds ‘eclipse’ visibility of rare annular solar eclipse in the Philippines 9  Duterte to decline Trump’s invitation to visit White House 16  US-PH ties good amid ban on de Lima accusers: Locsin 16 

Lifestyle

TRAVEL. Siargao gets int’l praise as 8th best 2020 holiday destination 20  FOOD. Serve only the best dishes for your day with Scrumptious Creamy Carbonara and Ube Tin Cake 15  HEALTH AND FAMILY. Boost our daughters’ confidence this 2020 with body positivity 19  TECHNOLOGY. How to grow your business with power, style and value 14 

DEMOCRAT

LA?

in Who’s

DISTRICT 30 CA

@RajiRab2020

MISS Philippines Gazini Ganados smiles to friends and supporters at the start of the meet and greet event in a Filipino bar and restaurant in downtown Los Angeles. Photo by TONY GARCIA

“MY journey to Miss Universe might have ended but I will definitely carry on, working for the causes that I have committed myself to.” Thus said Philippine beauty Gazini Ganados in an interview with Weekend Balita/US Asian Post at the close of a meet and greet event in a Filipino bar and restaurant Los Angeles last December 19. The said event happened about more than a week after the Miss Universe Coronation Night in Atlanta, Georgia. Gazini is an advocate of elderly care and has been helping to raise funds for the cause through fashion shows. “THE BEST

»P4

FORMER Philippine Senator Jinggoy Estrada meets with friends and some members of the press at a Filipino bar in downtown Los Angeles. Posing with him are former People’s Tonight reporter Odette Galino and Rose Sarreal of the Filipino American Press Club of California (FAPCC). Photo by Bobby Crisostomo

I am Raji Rab, your congressional candidate. In view of growing corruption, growing homelessness, growing hazard to life and environment and no accountability, I am requesting your vote as your next Congressman. I support Medicare-for-All, debt free students, women right to choose, equality, clean environment, affordable housing and better income. I will speed up immigration process for those waiting since years to meet their loved ones. In 2018, I came across massive corruption & election fraud and fought it all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. Corruption & fraud still exist, and I am fighting it. Thanks to my voters, working with me these past months to fight fraud, securing our parallel people’s vote count of my 125,000 plus votes as paper evidence to win the 2020 election. Vote machines designed for 2020 are not federally certified, prone to fraud. Please Vote by mail. This Christmas eve, I enjoyed giving food and sharing the holiday spirit with the homeless. While the incumbent sleeps sound in comfort, the homeless community lives in harsh conditions filled with unconscionable pain and suffering. Like other pressing issues, growing homelessness has not been solved for years by Brad Sherman, but I can. I will solve this crisis immediately with emergency housing upon my getting into office. How can we root out corruption when Sherman himself has repeatedly taken illegal money from "Allied Wallet", recently indicted by Department of Justice in Multi-Million Dollar Illegal Campaign Contribution Case. Fraud corrupts everything it touches. I fought corruption all the way to U.S. Supreme Court, I will fight for you and serve with clean hands.

Wishing everyone Happy, Healthy and a Prosperous New Year!

You don't have to struggle, I will fight your fight for your rights. WWW.RAJIRABFORCONGRESS.COM

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GABI NG PARANGAL. Hosted by the Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) members of the media and community were given recognition in a simple ceremony at the Filipino Cultural Center (FCC) in downtown Los Angeles last December 20. Those who received acknowledgement (from left to right) from Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and the Board of Directors of the Department of Public Works were Bobby Crisostomo, Vina Nacionales, Thelma Calabio, Mylah de Leon, Nikki Arriola, Bernadette Manahan Sta. Maria, Benny Uy and Rudy Autor.

Join the 35 Anniversary Procession of: th

Sabrina Celebrates 18th Birthday

NUESTRO SENIOR JESUS NAZARENO January 10, 2020 Mass @ 5:15PM

ST. FRANCES OF ROME CHURCH 501 E. Foothill Blvd., Azusa, CA 91702 Rev. Richard Vega Rev. Mark Martinez DAILY SCHEDULE: Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 5:15PM

January 2nd January 3rd January 4th January 5th January 6th January 7th January 8th January 9th January 10th

5:15PM 5:30PM 2:30PM 2:30PM 5:15PM 5:15PM 5:15PM 5:15PM 2:30PM

Mass followed by Novena Mass followed by Novena @ 7PM Mass followed by Novena @ 5PM Mass followed by Novena @ 5PM Mass followed by Novena Mass followed by Novena Mass followed by Novena Mass followed by Novena Mass followed by Novena @

Candlelight Procession to follow Please bring your own battery operated candle RECEPTION @ Fr. Edward Landreau Auditorium For more information Please contact

Linda Guanio (626) 965-4988

Parents Rydda and Ariel Angeles stand behind their children (from left to right) Selena, debutant Sabrina and Enzo. Sabrina’s 18th birthday celebration was held at the Hotel Embassy Suites in Ontario, California last December 21. Photo by Bobby Crisostomo

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REFUGEES WINTER IN JUAREZ REFUGEE CAMPS, WAITING TO MAKE ASYLUM BIDS By KENT PATERSON Special to Ethnic Media Services

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s temperatures dip near or below freezing, scores of Mexican refugees huddle in makeshift tents of layered plastic sheeting at the foot of the Santa Fe Bridge connecting Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, with El Paso, Texas. Many are small children. A small figurine of the Virgin of Guadalupe watches over as these people wait and wait and wait to argue their cases for political asylum in the United States, but this holiday season features no colorfully wrapped packages beneath a Christmas tree nor heart-warming songs of mariachi singers. Some say they’ve been waiting two months already. Like others before them, they recite a litany of aggression and atrocity that drove them from their homes: relatives murdered, extortion by gangs and forcible recruitment of the young – teenagers -- into the criminal underworld. Many contend, too, that even at governmental levels, the line between officials and outlaws melds into one obscure but powerful, suffocating structure. "We are fleeing delinquency," they exclaim. Many in this group encamped along a narrow side street are former residents of Guerrero and Michoacan, states long embroiled in narco-violence. For these southerners accustomed to warmer climes, the borderland’s deep December chill presents a real challenge. El Diario de Juarez reported that the temperature on Dec. 18 plummeted to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Like their recent predecessors, the campers complain of a lack of support from the Mexican government. Two men say they must pay five pesos to access the bathrooms on the Mexican portion of the Santa Fe Bridge and 50 pesos to take a

shower in nearby hotels. There are portable bathrooms installed at a similar encampment outside another international bridge a few miles down the road, but not here. Food and clothing, however, are provided by good Samaritans from Juarez, El Paso and other U.S. places, especially from Christian churches. "Really, the local people have behaved beautifully," an asylum seeker says. As the man talks, smiling folks swoop through the camp, delivering fresh burritos. If it weren't for the civil society solidarity, he says, hunger would prevail. In contravention of U.S. asylum law, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) guards posted on the Santa Fe Bridge, two men say, have on multiple occasions prevented them from entering El Paso -about "30 times" one said. The guards justified their actions by saying there was no room to accommodate the asylum seekers at the time. So instead, they are part of a "metering" system in which the CBP calls families and individuals in small groups to come make their initial asylum claim. According to the Santa Fe Bridge group's spokesperson, 67 families and 250 persons are currently on their list to cross. A man who said he’d been at the bridge two months already said nobody had been called that day, that one family was permitted the day before and not a single soul the day before that.

Many people previously at the encampment gave up and returned home, he added. A group of women complain that of those who did make it across, children, including toddlers, were asked inappropriate questions, given the kids’ ages, about violence by U.S. immigration authorities. In recent days, according to a pair of men, about 50 people from the Santa Fe Bridge encampment who had been permitted to enter the United States were deported back to Juarez. The asylum hopefuls report that some admitted into the United States wound up with family members, while others were held in immigrant detention centers in El Paso and New Mexico -- sometimes for weeks at a time. Dashing along the line of rudimentary tents, a young man says he was released from a New Mexico detention center after a judge decided he had no "credible fear" and he agreed to a voluntary departure instead of appealing the case. For now, he's waiting for his brother to be released from immigrant detention. What will the siblings do? "We don't have family here,” the rejected asylum seeker says. “They're all over (in the United States). My brother and I will return alone." The U.S. officials have given him no real option, he says, even though the cartels pose a danger in the particular neck of the woods he fled. He makes a prediction based on his experience with the U.S. asylum process: Many more

deportees are going to trod through the streets of Juarez soon. He gives the new deportees a moniker: “No Credible Fears." As Julian Aguilar pointed out in a recent Texas Tribune article, the sending of migrants back to Mexico stands in contrast to the Trump administration's travel warnings to U.S. citizens about Mexico. The White House is reportedly contemplating designating the cartels as terrorist groups. An updated State Department travel advisory from Dec. 17 warns U.S. travelers not to visit either Guerrero or Michoacan, places from which many of the refugees stranded in Juarez hail. Similar warnings stand for Tamaulipas, Colima and Sinaloa. So in other words, the same lands that are unsafe for U.S. citizens to visit is safe for Mexican citizens to go home to, according to the varied pronunciations of federal officials. At a Dec. 17 meeting in Juarez, Mexican municipal, state and federal officials and unnamed migrant advocates discussed consolidating the interview wait lists from the three international bridges in the city where refugees are camped out. In a press release, Rogelio Pinal, chief of Juarez’s municipal human rights department, said that children’s exposure to the cold and health conditions were likewise discussed. According to Pinal, the c a mp s ’ p o p u l a t i o n h a s dropped to 650. Some of the asylum seekers have reportedly

found lodging with relatives or friends, or at hotels if they can afford the rent, so they’re being spared having to camp out at the bridges. Separately, on Dec. 18 El Diario cited a senior Chihuahua state migrant official saying that time has run out for the campers at the bridges and authorities would place the asylum seekers in migrant shelters. “They can’t be (there) any more, for the safety of the children,” the paper quoted Enrique Valenzuela of the Coespo state migrant agency as saying. Until now, many refugees at the Santa Fe Bridge have opposed moving to those shelters because of their distance from the international bridges and fears of losing their place on the waiting lists. A fellow who's says he's left everything behind -- job, property and home --and waited patiently for his turn for an asylum interview, claims he will weather the bitter winter. He vows not to agree to voluntary departure, to struggle through the entire legal process and endure detention if that’s what it takes. "We are looking for protection, not to live the good life, as they say," he insists. "The American Dream doesn't exist." New people are still trickling into the refugee camp, but at far lower numbers than in recent months, he says. But he also estimates that the situation could change once the winter passes and more people undertake a risky asylum odyssey.

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East San Gabriel Valley Homeless Connect Day Event Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis poses with Filipino American Gerard Atienza of Simple Senior Benefits Group during the recent East San Gabriel Homeless Connect Day held last December 19, 2019 at Whittier Narrows Park, South El Monte. Atienza’s group helps Medicare members including the low income and the homeless navigate the various benefits of Medicare. The Simple Senior Benefits Medicare Information participates in food distribution and keeping up winter homeless shelters in the East San Gabriel Valley Area. For more information, please call (626) 203-1231 or email at gerry@simpleseniorbenefits.org

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1,200 families receive gifts and Gov. Newsom to run quarterly food at annual holiday events column with ethnic media

THROUGHOUT the month of December, the Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA) collaborated with local partners, volunteers, and staff to help spread the holiday spirit to hundreds of Los Angeles County residents. The Community Resource Center in South Whittier held its 23rd Annual Holiday Basket and Toy Giveaway. Approximately 200 families posed with Santa for photos and received boxes filled with all the trimmings for a holiday meal. More than 75 volunteers from the Los Angeles County Fire Department, California Highway Patrol, Los Angeles County Sherriff ’s Department Norwalk Station, Shelter Partnership, local Girl and Boy Scout troops, and other community groups dedicated their time to enriching the holiday season within the community. Additionally, the LACDA hosted a series of holiday events at its public housing developments. Nearly 1,000 public housing youth throughout the County received holiday gifts, and more than 900 public housing families received food baskets. The events were filled with joy, decorative desserts, holiday music, games, and

some dancing! Seniors at the Carmelitos Public Housing Development put on their dancing shoes and celebrated with live entertainment, along with a delicious lunch, provided by the onsite clinic, the Central Neighborhood Health Foundation. Emilio Salas, LACDA Acting Executive Director said, “The LACDA understands that the holiday season may put a financial strain on some families who struggle to make ends meet, so we make it a point to come out every year to show our communities that we are here to help. From holiday events to our programs and services, we are here to support the Los Angeles County residents year-round.” The agency’s county wide holiday events were made possible through the outpouring support from Toys 4 Tots, Shelter Partnership, Cottonwood, former Housing Commissioner Henry Porter, The Basket Brigade, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, The Ella’s Foundation, East Los Angeles Criminal Justice Department and many others who graciously provided toys, food, and monetary donations to help give approximately 1,200 families a holiday to remember.

L.A. PUBLIC LIBRARY WILL END LATE FINES MAYOR ERIC GARCETTI announced recently that the Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL) will end late fines for all library patrons beginning next spring — making LAPL the largest public library in America to eliminate overdue fines. “Our library is a civic and cultural treasure, and everyone in the city should be able to share in the wealth of information, enrichment, and entertainment in our collection,” said Mayor Garcetti. “We are ending these fines because patrons show care and integrity in the handling of these precious materials — and nothing should stand in the way of Angelenos who want to share in all the library has to offer.” Historically, fines for overdue materials have disproportionately impacted families and individuals with limited resources, and these penalties are often a deterrent to library access. Making LAPL fine-free removes that barrier — and will encourage library use and is expected to increase the number of library cardholders. Fines for overdue materials will end in Spring 2020. Charges for overdue materials incurred before the new policy takes effect will also be eliminated. Going fine-free will also eliminate the $10.00 non-refundable service fine for lost items, and will also increase the number of times materials can be renewed from two to three — unless the specific item is requested by another patron. The replacement costs for materials that are more than 45 days overdue from the last renewal, also known as lost fees, will not be impacted by the new policy. Library patrons are still responsible for paying for any damaged materials. These changes are not expected to impact LAPL’s budget, as revenue from fines has steadily decreased over the past six years and today accounts for less than 1% of the Library’s operating budget. “At the Los Angeles Public Library, we are proud to serve the largest, most diverse population of any library in the nation,” said City Librarian John F. Szabo. “We welcome everyone, and we are all about equity, access, opportunity, empowerment and lifelong learning. By removing barriers and going fine-free, we will be better able to serve everyone in Los Angeles.” The announcement follows a unanimous vote of the Board of Library Commissioners, who were appointed by Mayor Garcetti. “When Mayor Garcetti appointed me to the Board of Library Commissioners, I was already a big believer in the power of our library — and I continue to be inspired by the creativity and innovation of library staff,” said Board of Library Commissioners President Bich Ngoc Cao. “This policy change will be a game changer for many families in Los Angeles, and we are excited for them to take advantage of the library.”

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom recently announced a historic media collaboration with California Black Media, Ethnic Media Services, ImpreMedia, Univision, and LGBTQ outlets Bay Area Reporter and the Los Angeles Blade to contribute an original quarterly column on timely public policy issues impacting Californians across the state. The quarterly “On the Record with Gavin Newsom” column will be translated into at least six languages and distributed quarterly starting in December. Each column will be posted for public access on the Governor’s website and published online or in print in the over 50 participating media outlets. Any media outlet is welcome to pull the column from the Governor’s website to publish in their outlet. “California is proud to be the most diverse state in the world’s most diverse democracy,” said Governor Newsom. “All Californians deserve to know that their government is working for them, especially in rural and Inland communities that have long felt that they do not truly have a voice in Sacramento. We look forward to collaborating with our media partners—and inviting others who might be interested in partnering— to bring our California for All message to communities across our state.” This announcement builds on Governor Newsom’s commitment to working with community, ethnic and diverse media outlets. Throughout his first year in office, the Governor and his senior staff have participated in several telebriefing media calls and meetings on a host of issues ranging from the death penalty to public charge to the 2020 Census. “The idea for the column grew out of a two year effort by representatives of Black, Latino, Asian and Native media to educate state legislators and decision makers about the sector’s role and to forge a multi-ethnic media advocacy voice,” said Sandy Close who directs Ethnic Media Services, a nonprofit media consulting organization. Regina Brown Wilson, director of California Black Media, says the column “couldn’t come at a more critical time. In this information era dominated by high tech platforms, Governor Newsom is sending an important signal that government needs high touch communicators embedded in and trusted by their

local communities.” Gabriel Lerner, veteran editor of ImpreMedia’s La Opinion, underscored the need for consistent outreach by the Governor as an antidote to the growing fear and distrust of government among immigrant audiences in the wake of Trump administration anti-immigrant measures. “Every new announcement from the White House creates a relentless campaign of terror. The column is one small but important counter-voice that all immigrants need to hear,” Lerner said. “Establishing a direct and consistent way of communication with the people of California is essential to have an informed, engaged, and prosperous community,” said Marco Flores, Vice President of News for Univision Los Angeles. Francis Espiritu, longtime publisher of Philippine News Today, a national Filipino news outlet headquartered in the Bay Area, was one of numerous Asian media leaders who joined the collaborative effort. He says he is eager to run the column to inform audiences about the Governor’s policy objectives and to reassure them that “the state has our back.” Native media are also a key part of the collaboration. Joe Orozco, who directs the Hoopa reservation based KIDE radio in northern Eureka, says the isolation and diversity of tribal lands makes communications an even greater challenge. He hopes the column represents an effort to make communication two-way. “We want to tell our story as well,” said Orozco. The partnership includes the LGBTQ publications Bay Area Reporter and Los Angeles Blade. “The Bay Area Reporter looks forward to the quarterly columns by Governor Gavin Newsom. As one of the oldest LGBT newspapers in the country, we think our readers will enjoy learning about issues the governor writes about. California is in a state of constant change, and we believe our readers will be interested to hear directly from San Francisco’s former mayor through his columns on how he plans to address myriad issues statewide,”said Cynthia Laird, News Editor with the Bay Area Reporter.

“THE BEST... FROM PAGE 1 “It was a really a proud moment po,” Gazini said, recalling her moment at the competition, “to walk the stage in the name of our country and see our kababayans wave our flag in Atlanta.” Gazini took pride in being one of the 20 finalists. “It wasn’t easy. There were 90 competitors po.” The Filipina beauty has downplayed another mix up involving Miss Universe host Steve Harvey, wherein Gazini was almost denied the win for the “National Costume Contest. But unlike in 2015, wherein Harvey mistakenly called the wrong winner, the show’s host had actually named the right winner. “Wala po ‘yon. That was not a very intense situation. I just laughed it off,” Gazini replied when asked how she felt about the mix up. Coincidentally, this year’s mix up and the 2015’s confusion both involved the Philippines. The Miss Universe Organization has confirmed that Harvey was correct in calling Gazini as the winner of the 2019 National Costume competition. Gazini’ costume, an impression of the Philippine Eagle, was created by Cary Santiago. Kibitzers credited Gazini for being able to continue the so-called “Philippine finalist streak” in the Miss Universe competition for the last 10 years. Although, Gazini’s top 20 finish also happened to break the successive top 10 finishes of Philippine beauty contestants in the last nine years. Since 2010, the Philippines has produced four Miss Universe runners-up. Catriona Gray won the crown in 2019 and Pia Wurtzbach won in 2015. South Africa’s Zozibini Tunzi succeeded Philippine beauty queen Gray as the new Miss Universe. Gazini’s meet and greet event titled “Up Close” was promoted by the Starlink Promotions. Among the hosts were local beauty queen Suzanne Perez while Los Angeles based singer and composer Garth Garcia was among those performed in the event.

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ESTATE TAX AMNESTY By HORATIO “HOREX” MAURICIO

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any Filipinos find themselves heirs to an estate that a relative passed on to them through death. Acquiring the title to the estate involves a very complex and tedious process that is daunting to the heirs, leading to inaction. Such inaction can make succession to title very expensive, if altogether unaffordable to all but the extremely rich. This is due to the Philippine Estate Tax; Initial Penalties for late action and Annual Interest on the Taxes (which can be compounded by penalties, if fraud is involved). Relief to most of these problems has come, when Republic Act 11213 (RA 11213), also called the Tax Amnesty Act, came into effect on June 15,2019. It provides a two-year window (until June 15,2021), during which all delinquent Estate Taxes (maximum rate of 20%), Initial Penalties (25%) and Annual Interest on unpaid Tax (20%, which increases to 50%, if fraud is involved), are brought down to a very affordable SIX PERCENT (6%) of the net estate amount. To understand this Tax Amnesty Law, let me introduce a few legal terms: 1. Decedent - (also called the deceased) - a person who dies. 2. Heir - a person who is entitled to receive a share of the Decedent's property, subject to the rules of inheritance in the jurisdiction of which the Decedent was a citizen or where the decedent died or owned property at the time of death. 3. Estate of the Decedent - a deceased person's property, entitlements and obligations.

4. Will and Testament - instructions (normally written) for the disposition of one's property after death. 5. Intestate - the condition of the estate of a person who dies without having made a valid will or other binding declaration (usually in writing). RA 11213 generally applies to the following: 1. The Estate Tax Amnesty shall cover the estate of the Decedent(s) who dies or on before December 31,2017. Decedents who die from January 1,2018 are covered under a separate law. 2. The gross estate of the Decedents who are Philippine Residents and Citizens at the time of their death should include all properties, real and personal, tangible and intangible, wherever situated. The gross estate of the Decedents who are Non-Resident Aliens would include only real and personal properties situated, only, in the Philippines. 3. The Tax Amnesty window covers two (2) years, ending on June 15, 2021. 4. The Estate Tax will be SIX PERCENT (6%), only, of the net estate, with all penalties and interests being waived.

5. The Estate Tax Amnesty shall not extend to: a) Delinquent estate tax liabilities which have become final and executory and those covered by Tax Amnesty on Delinquencies; and b) Properties involved in cases pending in appropriate (5) Courts. 6. The properties comprising the gross estate of the Decedent shall be valued, in general, based on the fair market value as of the time of death of the Decedent. For real property, the fair market value shall be the higher value between the Zonal Value as determined by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue and the fair market value as shown in the schedule of values fixed by the Provincial and City Assessors. Moreover, the manner of computation of the net estate and the deductions allowed will also be based on the law applicable at the time of death. 7. Estates covered by Estate Tax Amnesty, which have fully complied with all the conditions set forth in the Regulations, including the payment of Estate TaxAmnesty, shall be immune from the payment of all estate taxes for the taxable year 2017 and all prior years, and from all appurtenant civil, criminal and administrative cas-

es, and penalties. The availment of the Estate Tax Amnesty does not imply any admission of criminal, civil or administrative liability on the part of the availing estate. A separate Estate Tax Amnesty shall be applied at every transfer of the property from every Decedent to the Heir. There are two ways to take advantage of this Tax Amnesty Program: using the legal processes of the judicial system (Courts), OR Extrajudicial Settlement, anchored primarily on the UNANIMOUS AGREEMENT among the compulsory Heirs. Given the short period left before the Estate Tax Amnesty Program ends, the Extrajudicial Settlement would be the preferred method to take. For more information or questions, please email estatetaxamnestv2019@gmail.com. We will provide you a copy of 1) Republic Act 11213, also called the Tax Amnesty Act; 2) the Implementing Provisions of the Tax Amnesty Act; 3) a Question and Answer Exchange; and 4) the biodata of the Author, for your information. Please send your 1) Full Name; 2) Street Address; 3)Phone Numbers; and 4) your email address, to: estatetaxamnesty2019@ gmail.com . Remember, as of October 1,2019, we have only 20 months left before the end of the Estate Tax Amnesty Program.

Horatio “Horex” Mauricio obtained his Law Degree from the University of the Philippines in 1981. He was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 1982.

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Combining my two loans in one payment Q&A: Ken, I have a home equity line of credit that I have max out at $80,000 and I have it at a 4.5% rate now, I have had this balance for the past year since I got the line of credit for about 3 years. I have no intention of paying it down because my savings are depleted already due to the remodeling of the house, paying off credit card debts and helping my daughters college tuition. I have a 4.125% rate on my first mortgage 5 years ago and I feel like I should not combine my 1st and second into another 30 year loan? What is your best suggestion, please make me understand. Thanks. Ken Go: In the past 3-6 months we have had help a lot of mortgage borrowers combine two loans into one. By doing so, you are correct it would extend the life of the loan for another 30/20 or 15 years! But here is what I always ask, do you have any liquid funds or emergency funds that you could resort to in case you are backed up into a wall, or if you run into a financial opportunity or crisis for that matter? If your answer is “No”, you have a hard time saving money and/or putting money aside, my answer to you is to not worry about paying down your mortgage. Your goal is to keep afloat every month try and save money by not paying too much interest in your credit cards or student loans. Most homeowners now that had bought their homes over two to three years ago should be building up a nice size equity, use your equity to help you survive. Normally I don’t say this, but if you are just surviving with a mortgage, your house could be your “piggy bank” to help you get ahead. I hate high interest yields on the credit cards, I dislike high student loan rates you should too. So, mortgage rates are still floating around 3.875%-4.125% now, that is considered cheap borrowing money. Now, in this case for the caller. He has equity to combine 1st and second loan, therefore I am suggesting for him to do another 30 years currently at 4.125% with no cost to refinance. His second mortgage is tied to Bank Prime rate + .25% now at 4.5% due to go up by .25% increments every time Fed Chair Janet Yellen says it will go up and in another 5 years that interest only mortgage is going to self amortized for 20 years at around 5%+ rate, which will make the payments

go up from $300/mo interest only to $539.08 fully amortize for 20 years. Q&A: I have a house with an illegal conversion of a garage into a one bedroom unit. Can I refinance and take money out to make improvements and pay off bills? Ken Go: Making home improvements is always a winner and paying off high interest yield credit card is also a good way to spend your equity smarter. With regards to the illegal conversion of a garage into a one bedroom unit, if this is done in a “Workman Like Condition” the appraiser will not have a problem. What is “ Workman like Condition” here is a lengthy version of understand illegal additions, conversions or even grandfathered extra unit that you have bought into. Non-permitted additions/improvements may be allowed if the appraiser explains the steps taken to attempt verification and they meet the following criteria: · The improvements/additions were constructed in a workmanlike manner · The addition does not increase the footprint (i.e. foundation) of the original structure or does not result in a change in the number of units, (e.g. a 1 unit property is converted to 2 units). If the footprint has been expanded and the appraiser is unable to verify permits, the appraisal should be completed subject to verification of permits. · The appraiser can state that the non-permitted additions/improvements are typical for the market area. · A non-permitted addition generally should not be considered in the Gross Living Area (GLA); rather, it should be considered in a separate line item and given value based in its contributory value. Unpermitted garage conversions are acceptable to HUD as long as the conversion was done in a workmanlike manner and poses no health and safety issues. Value should be reflected on the appraisal as a line item and not included in the GLA. Appraiser to verify subject property is still legal without having covered parking (some areas of the Country require all properties have adequate, covered parking). Call for further clar-

ification, every case is so different, I usually like to physically inspect any illegal additions prior to an appraisal inspection to be sure we are in line with what an appraiser would expect. Q&A: Thanks for your great article about selling properties in the Philippines to make use of the money here in the US. I have a property that I am renting out in the Metro Manila, the income is really not enough for me to cover the loan I took out here in the US to buy this house. IF this is a good time to sell, should I unload the house and bring the money to pay off the loan that I borrowed here in the US? Ken Go: After reviewing your scenario, here is what I gathered. You had purchase your condotel (not house) since 2010 for about $120,000.00 US and you took out an equity loan from your house that you are paying $ 630.00 per month on it, I did not include taxes and insurance since you are living in this house. But you have an additional $1950 in PITI( principal, interest, tax & insurance) payment on the original loan. You are averaging about $30/day rental for this condotel and your average days being rented out per month is about 25 days. Therefore, you are making about $750.00 per month but your management fee, maintenance, online fees is estimated at around $200.00 a month. Your bottom line is estimated to be around negative $80.00 per month then you have to pay association fees another $50/month so your total negative per month is about $130.00. The good news is that this is valued at around $150-160,000.00 now but your exchange rate is now 50 to one, when you exchange your dollar back then it was only at around 44 to 1dollar. Overall you did OK. If you can sell this property, you should because in the Philippines, people always prefer newer building to buy. Good luck. Thanks for your inquiries and acknowledgements. Please call Ken Go for your further Real Estate and Mortgage Needs, call Ken of 1st Innovative Finance at 562-508-7048 or write to kennethgo@ verizon.net. BRE 01021223 NMLS 238636.

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ccording to a recent study, a majority of people in this country are living way beyond their means. In keeping up with the Jones’s, these people have resorted to using credit cards to buy things that they normally can’t afford with their income. They buy everything with the plastic cards they keep in their wallets. It’s the familiar “Vegas mentality” that if you are using chips, it doesn’t even feel like real money. As a bankruptcy attorney, I am often shocked to see that a lot of people use more than half of their take-home income just to be able to make the minimum payments on their credit cards each month. Now, in the eyes of the world, these people seem to be doing fine financially. Some people may even be misled into thinking that they are “wealthy”. They have nice homes, nice cars and the latest toys or gadgets that everyone else has. But if you look at their finances, it is evident that they have stretched themselves too thin. The truth of the matter is that these people are not even close to the real definition of being “wealthy”- They simply have a “high-consumption” lifestyle. Everything they have is “owned” by the bank that financed the purchase. The moment they lose the ability to make payments, they could lose everything overnight. Their current lifestyle has become a “disaster waiting to happen.” Wake up and smell the coffee. If you have to borrow money from a bank to buy something, that thing is not YOURS until you have made all your CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

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4 WAYS FILING FOR DIVORCE CAN BENEFIT YOUR IMMIGRATION CASE Couples get divorced for various reasons. California is a no fault state. The reasons why a couple is getting divorced are often irrelevant to the issues of the family law case. Divorce is often a difficult and negative experience for most families. However, getting divorce may have some unintended benefits in the immigration law arena. Four situations in which filing for divorce can be beneficial to your immigration case are as follows: 1. Married Sons and Daughters of US Citizens If you were petitioned for legal permanent residence by your US Citizen parent as a married son or daughter 21 years old or over, you are classified in immigration law under family sponsored third preference (F3) which usually carries a long wait time. The wait time for Filipinos for example is currently 22 years. The priority date is normally the date the petition was initially filed by your US Citizen parents. If you get divorced, you revert back to single status and your category automatically becomes reclassified to first preference (F1) where the waiting time is substantially shorter. For example, for Filipinos the wait time under F1 category is 10 years shorter than F3 category. This means if your parents filed your immigration petition 12 years ago, then you can adjust to a green card now instead of waiting another 10 years. 2. Married Sons and Daughters of Legal Permanent Residents If your parents are legal permanent residents, getting divorced will convert you back single status making you eligible to be petitioned by your legal permanent resident parents under the family based second preference (F2b) category if you are 21 years old or older or under the family based second preference A (F2a) if you are under 21 years of age. For those who married after they were petitioned by their LPR parents (F2A and F2B), the petition is automatically revoked under operation of law the moment you get married and cannot be reclaimed by a divorce. In theory, it can be argued that filing a subsequent petition after your divorce under the same category inherits the previous petition’s priority date under 9 FAM 42.43 N10 and 8 CFR 204.2(h), Part

205. However, success of such argument is not clear since the old petition was automatically revoked the moment you married. The best thing that can be done in this situation is to have your LPR parent repetition you as an F2A or F2b even if you are unable to reclaim the previous petition’s priority date. 3. Conditional Legal Permanent Residents in failed Marriages For those who obtained their legal permanent residence status through marriage based petition by their US Citizen spouse of less than 2 years marriage, the legal permanent residence status conferred is usually a “conditional legal permanent residence” valid only for 2 years. The couple would need to sign and file a joint petition to remove this condition prior to the expiration of the 2 years or the conditional legal permanent resident spouse would fall out of status. The problem arises when the marriage is in trouble. Often it becomes difficult to obtain the cooperation of the US Citizen spouse specially when the couple has separated. US Citizen spouse often refuse to sign the I-751 for or appear at the I-751 interview if one is set by the USCIS. Filing for divorce would terminate the marriage and allow you to file a “waiver” of the joint petition to remove the conditional LPR status based on entering into the marriage in good faith. Terminating the marriage by filing a divorce is a requirement in order to file the “waiver.” It is important to time this correctly as soon as the marriage starts falling apart because by terminating the marriage early on, you might be able to file the waiver before the expiration of your 2 year conditional LPR thus allowing you to extend your LPR status in 1 year increments until a final decision is made in your case.

MINDING YOUR FINANCES… FROM PAGE 6 payments. Someone said that if you are living in a mortgaged house, driving a mortgaged car, sleep in a mortgaged bed and keep your food in a mortgaged refrigerator, you have practically mortgaged yourself and your life to your creditors! Remember this: Wealth is not what you spend or borrow, it’s what you accumulate. Having a lot of things in your life- be it a house, a car, nice appliances, etc- doesn’t mean anything if you do not own them. The things that you truly own are your assets. The things that you can only afford if you get a bank to finance the purchase are nothing but a liability. And in most cases, the collateral depreciates more quickly than you are able to pay off the debt. According to a recent research, the average credit card debt of U.S. households with at least one credit card was $9,205 in 2003, up from only $2996 in 1990. That’s a 310% increase! What is the reason for our propensity in using those little plastic cards? Sure, it’s nice to eat at those fine restaurants and buy all the latest gadgets and toys that other people have- as long as you can afford to pay the bill when you get your next monthly statement. But as I stated above, using credit cards to finance these luxuries is a long-term loser if most of the stuff you buy with your credit cards depreciates rather than rises in value. To add fuel to the fire, consider the outrageous interest that the credit card companies are charging you every month. On a $2750 credit card balance with an 18% APR interest rate, it would take you 15 years to pay off this debt making minimum monthly payments. If you are experiencing serious debt problems and don’t know where to turn for help, call our office so we can help you determine whether Bankruptcy is right for your situation. In some cases, filing for bankruptcy or debt consolidation may be the answer. In some cases, it may not be. For more information and to schedule a free consultation, please call Toll-Free 1-866-477-7772. Let us evaluate your situation and recommend possible options. We have offices in Glendale, Cerritos and Valencia. (None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully helped over 5,000 clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call RJB Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1-866-477-7772).

4. Married Aliens in Non-Immigrant Visas and those without Status For those who enter the US as a non-immigrant and are separated from their spouse but still married, filing a divorce would open up opportunities in case they meet a new significant other who is a US Citizen and who can petition them as an immediate relative. This is usually the fastest of process in obtaining legal permanent residence. In countries such as the Philippines where there is no divorce, many people come to the US to start a new life after they have been separated from their old spouse (often still married to them). Even if the alien over stays their status as a visitor, the alien can still adjust to that of a legal permanent residence if petitioned by a US Citizen spouse. If the alien was never inspected, the alien can still adjust to legal permanent residence if they are grandfathered under INA 245(i) and there are no special restrictions on their status. To be grandfathered under INA 245(i), the alien must have been a beneficiary of a legal permanent residence petition filed no later than April 30, 2001. Finally, a common concern of divorcing immigrants is “What happens if my spouse refuses to sign the divorce papers?” The truth is you do not need your spouse’s signature to obtain a divorce in California. You only need to provide your spouse notice that you filed a divorce by personally serving your spouse the divorce petition and summons. In countries that are mem-

bers of the Hague Convention, special procedures need to be followed to effect service. So yes it is possible to divorce your spouse even if your spouse is in a country that does not recognize divorce among its citizens such as the Philippines. For some immigrants, filing for divorce opens up opportunities in this land of milk and honey. Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APLC. This article is not a solicitation. Attorney Kenneth Reyes is a graduate of Southwestern University School of Law in Los Angeles. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyer’s Association (AILA) and the Los Angeles County Bar Association, Immigration and Family Law Sections. You may contact Atty. Reyes at (213) 3881611 or via e-mail at kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APLC. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA. Visit us at Kenreyeslaw.com to learn about our firm.

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CAREGIVERS for the elderly are regularly required to provide overnight care to their clients when working 24-hour shifts. In fact, many caregivers provide full support and assistance to their elderly patients throughout the night, as well as general supervision and companionship. Overnight care is necessary for many patients who suffer from dementia, wake up confused or disoriented, or have trouble going to the bathroom on their own. The label of “sleep-time” is often inaccurate, because patients get up so often that the caregiver must wake up several times each night, thereby getting inconsistent sleep. Without overnight care, many patients would need to be institutionalized in a care facility or placed in group homes. In the caregiving industry, unfortunately, it is common for private employers to deduct sleep time and other non-active time from the caregiver’s hours worked. Many private employers incorrectly believe that since a caregiver is allowed to sleep, and is provided a place to stay, they do not have to pay caregivers for the overnight supervision and coverage they provide. However, this practice is illegal under California law. In-home caregivers must be paid for all hours they are required to remain on the premises, subject to the control of their employers, even to the extent that they are sleeping, inactive, watching television or surfing the net. Accordingly, if a caregiver is not allowed to leave a patient’s home at night, the caregiver must be paid for all overnight hours. Although many employers require caregivers to remain on the presence at all times to ensure the client’s health and safety, when faced with a claim for unpaid overnight wages, they argue that the caregiver stayed at the client’s home for their own benefit, rather than for the client’s benefit. To limit liability, employers typically claim that the caregivers did not have a place to live, did not want to drive home or simply enjoyed staying at the residence. These claims are often untrue and tend to ignore the economic vulnerability that forces many caregivers to work overnight without pay. If you are a 24-hour in-home caregiver, paid a daily rate for the services you provide, then you likely have a very valuable claim for unpaid overtime wages. For example, if you are a caregiver working 24-hours per day, 5 days per week, for a day rate of $270.00, then your daily unpaid overtime claim is approximately $675.00. The day rate of $270.00 does not compensate you, at all, for the 15 overtime hours you work each day. Based on this example, the caregiver’s regular rate of pay is $30/hour and the overtime rate is $45/hour (15 x $45 = $675). Moreover, liquidated damages for a willful failure to pay overtime wages could add an additional

$165.00 per day to the claim, as well as interest, attorneys’ fees, and penalties. In the above example, the hypothetical caregiver may claim over $4,000 in additional compensation per week. On a yearly basis, this claim would exceed $200,000. We have helped many caregivers whose claims exceed $500,000 in potential damages when working several years for employers who fail to pay them the requisite overtime compensation. The best way to keep your employer honest is document your time worked. Text or email your employer if you are woken up at night and required to assist your client during night time hours. Keep a daily time log, documenting the activities and work you performed overnight, when caring for the patient. If you have emails or text messages from your employer, you should always save them. Save every communication, no matter how trivial it may seem, because it may end up being the most valuable piece of evidence to prove your claim. Caregivers working in Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly may also be entitled to compensation for sleep time when required to work at night or supervise patients while they sleep. There are limited circumstances where facilities are legally permitted to deduct sleep time. In reality, many facilities do not meet the requirements to deduct sleep time from hours worked and, therefore, owe the caregivers overtime compensation for hours worked providing overnight care.

24-Hour In-Home Caregiv ers:

e? Are you paid for sleep tim If not, read this article

If you are a 24-hour caregiver who is not paid sleep time and is required to remain on the premises overnight, you may have a valuable claim. The lawyers at Chaleff Rehwald have litigated the issue of sleep time for inhome and facility caregivers countless times. We know the law and have detailed strategies to pursue these claims. Often, we are able to resolve claims without going to court. We want to hear from you to learn more about your claim. Call us now for a free consultation. (818) 807-4168 This article is an attorney advertisement written by Daniel Chaleff, employment law attorney at Chaleff Rehwald in Woodland Hills. Our examples are of a general nature and are not a guarantee regarding the outcome of your individual matter. The law firm focuses on caregiver rights. Please call us at (818) 807-4168 for a free and confidential consultation. Or visit us at www.cr.legal/ebook to learn more about caregiver overtime law. We offer a 24-hour chat line on our website.

Comfortable life for all Pinoys still Duterte’s top priority MANILA — From the signing of anti-poverty laws to chastising water concessionaires, President Rodrigo Duterte marked the year fulfilling his campaign promise to bring a “comfortable life” to all Filipinos with only over two years left until he steps down in 2022. The Duterte administration’s efforts to significantly cut down poverty rates are mov-

DUTERTE

ing full steam with the signing of laws such as the Magna Carta of the Poor. Before the law was signed, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that some 5.9 million Filipinos were pulled out of poverty in 2018, as poverty incidence fell to 16.6 percent from 23.3 percent in 2015. At this rate of development, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia said it is "possible for poverty incidence to further drop to "10 to 12 percent" by 2022, which is slightly lower compared to the current administration's target to bring it down by 14 percent by the end of Duterte’s term. “With the continued adoption of the DutertEnomics and socio-economic reforms, the poverty rate will be continuously reduced,” Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar said in a statement. The Magna Carta of the Poor (Republic Act No. 11291), signed on April 12 mandates the State "to adopt an area-based, sectoral and focused intervention to poverty alleviation where every poor Filipino must be empowered to meet the minimum basic need through the partnership of the Government and the basic sectors". Duterte also signed on April 17 an act institutionalizing the Pan-

tawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) (R.A. No. 11310), the national poverty reduction strategy and human capital investment program that provides conditional cash transfer to poor households for a maximum period of seven years to improve the health, nutrition and education aspects of their lives.

cessibility to the government’s medical and financial healthcare services’ through the Malasakit Centers, that will be built in all public hospitals in the country. To cut bureaucratic red tape in government, Duterte also ordered state offices to finish all transactions in just hours.

Accessible social services

For the farmers

To ensure that every Filipino, especially, the poor have equal access to quality healthcare, Duterte signed the Universal Healthcare Act of 2019 (R.A. 11223) which automatically enrolls all Filipinos under the government’s health insurance program. Under the law, coverage will be expanded to include free consultation fees, laboratory tests, and other diagnostic services. Duterte also signed into law a bill (R.A. 11210) that extends the maternity leave of female workers in the country from 60 to 105 days with full pay. All working mothers in the government and private sector are guaranteed with 105 days of paid maternity leave credits, with 7 days transferable to fathers while an additional 15 days of paid leave will be granted to single mothers, according to the law. Complementing these measures is the Malasakit Center Law (R.A. 11463), which expands the ac-

To open up the country's rice market, Duterte signed the Rice Tariffication Law (R.A. 11203) on February to switch the current quota system in importing rice into a tariff system, where rice can be imported more freely. On November, Duterte ordered the National Food Authority (NFA) to increase the country's emergency buffer stock from 15 days to 30 days by buying more palay (unhusked rice) from farmers and help them cope up with higher price of palay. The country's rice industry is expected to thrive with the implementation of the programs under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), a component under the Rice Tariffication Law aimed at making Filipino farmers more efficient and productive so they can compete with their counterparts in Southeast Asia. Under the Duterte administration, some 120,889 hectares of land have been distributed while farmers with machinery, seeds and farm animals to maximize the use of agrarian lands. CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

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Clouds 'eclipse' visibility of rare annular solar eclipse in the Philippines

PANGASINAN, PHILIPPINES — The observation of the annular (ring-shaped) solar eclipse on Thursday, where the distant moon blocks only a portion of the sun and forms a “ring of fire,” was overshadowed by cloudy skies in the Philippines and other parts of the world on Thursday. PAGASA's Astronomical Observatory earlier said that the rare celestial event could best be appreciated in Mindanao, particularly the southernmost part of Davao Occidental, since it will only be seen as a partial solar eclipse from any other vantage point in the country. However, social media users from different parts of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao alike have posted pictures where clouds appear to either partially or totally block the iage of the eclipse. PAGASA on Thursday reported cloudy skies with scattered rains over Central Luzon, Metro Manila, Rizal, and Northern Quezon as Typhoon Ursula (international name: Phanfone) remains in the Philippine area of responsibility. Online users also posted memes to summarize their anticlimactic observation of the eclipse. The last time the Philippines saw an annular solar eclipse was 75 years ago on Jul. 20, 1944. The next opportunity to witness an annular solar eclipse is on Jun. 21, 2020, but it will only be partially visible. (Philstar.com)

COMFORTABLE LIFE… FROM PAGE 8

Duterte also issued Executive Order No. 75 mandating all government agencies to identify government-owned lands suitable for agriculture for distribution. Easing traffic

Refusing to beg Congress for emergency powers, Duterte said he would rather allow EDSA to rot if some lawmakers insinuated that he would use it for corruption. In June, Duterte promised to cut travel time from Makati and Edsa to five minutes by yearend but was unable to do so. Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, however, said failure to fulfill Duterte’s promise does not mean it was not attainable under the current administration. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and other concerned state agencies have been ordered to introduce innovations to ease traffic congestion in the country's metropolis. Among others, the Duterte government's ambitious “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure program is seen as a solution to address traffic congestion in Metro Manila. Around PHP9 trillion has been earmarked for the implementation of around 100 big-ticket infrastructure projects and over 10,000 small infrastructure projects under the “Build, Build, Build” program. Invoking the arbitral ruling After temporarily shelving the arbitral ruling in 2016 to give way to friendlier relations between the Philippines and China, Duterte finally invoked the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ruling won by the Philippines against China during his visit to Beijing on August 29. Despite having raised the arbitral ruling while discussing concerns on the West Philippine Sea, Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China’s position that it is not recognizing the ruling. Duterte maintained his position to push for its claims in the disputed waters, but maintained that the issue should not be the sum total of the relationships between the two countries. Aside from the arbitral ruling, Duterte also brought up the 60-40 sharing arrangement on the proposed joint exploration for oil and gas in the West Philippine Sea. The June 9 Recto Bank (Reed Bank) maritime incident where a Chinese vessel allegedly rammed and abandoned a Philippine fishing boat at sea was also discussed in the meeting between the two leaders. Panelo has insisted that holding bilateral negotiations between the Philippines and China is currently the “most effective” way to resolve the

dispute over the West Philippine Sea. Water woes Alleged “onerous” provisions found in water concession agreements entered into by government with Maynilad and Manila Water angered Duterte, who refused to allow the government to pay the two water firms for damages. Duterte began questioning the alleged onerous provisions after the Singapore-based Permanent Court of Arbitration issued separate decisions, compelling the Philippine government in 2017 to pay PHP3.4 billion to Maynilad and in November 2019 to compensate PHP7.39 billion to Manila Water for the losses the two firms allegedly suffered due to non-implementation of increases in water rates. Saying the water deals “mirror” the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Law or Republic Act 3019, Duterte threatened to sue them for economic sabotage. Duterte asked the Department of Justice and Office of the Solicitor General to craft new water concession agreements that are “favorable to the State and the Filipino people” and also floated the idea of ordering the military to take over the operations of the two water concessionaires. The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) had revoked the approved 15-year extension of concession agreements with Manila Water and Maynilad that are supposed to expire in 2037 which means the two firms only have until 2022 to operate since the 2009 resolution extending the 25-year concession deals signed in 1997 is considered ineffective. The President will make a major announcement in relation to the alleged onerous contracts on January 6, 2020, according to Malacañang. Peace talks situation Duterte permanently terminated the government’s peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on March 18 saying the communist guerillas could talk peace with his successor instead. The CPP-New People’s Army (NPA) has been tagged as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines. Duterte later created a new panel, to include representatives from different sectoral groups, local government units, and the military, to supervise localized peace engagements. The Retooled Community Support Program is continuously being implemented in areas with vulnerable populations to ensure the improved delivery of basic services. However, Duterte on December 5

◘ Annular Solar Eclipsed seen in the forty five centimeter reflecting telescope using a converter for camera at the Pagasa Observatory Astronomical in U.P Diliman in Quezon City. The STAR/Boy Santos

bared that he has directed former government chief negotiator and Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello to talk peace with CPP founder Jose “Maria” Sison hopeful to re-open negotiations with CPP’s political wing, the National Democratic Front (NDF). Bello said that peace talks could resume by the second or third week of January 2020, but the government and the communist rebels have yet to agree on the negotiation's venue. No 4th Martial law Despite possible attacks by communist guerillas in the future, Duterte, on December 10, backed security officials' recommendation not to extend the martial law, following the weakening of the terrorist and extremist rebellion. Even without martial law in place, Duterte was optimistic that the state

forces can maintain peace and order in Southern Philippines. To recall, Duterte placed the whole of Mindanao under military rule on May 23, 2017 after the Islamic State-inspired Maute group laid siege in Marawi City in Lanao de Sur province. Congress extended the initial 60day martial rule three times upon the President’s recommendation to help state forces quell the insurgency in Mindanao. Security officials, however, are counting on proposed amendments to the Human Security Act of 2007 to give them more teeth to fight terrorism. Among the proposed amendments to this law include increasing the number of days a suspected terrorist can be detained from the current three days and to allow regional trial courts to issue authorizations and to wiretap suspects from 30 days to 60 days or longer. (PNA)

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having twins is truly a challenge, as it would require double the attention the twins need in the daily routine of feeding, bathing and putting the babies to sleep. Diane and her husband John, likewise after three months, have by now learned adjusting to their new challenges both at work and at home, with the loving assistance of their older son, Xavier.

Celebrating the NEW YEAR with future hopes and dreams for new beginnings

N

ow that Christmas is over, we can now look forward to celebrate the New YEAR with future hope and dreams for new beginnings.

al of the twins. Now they can look forward to a new life raising their children in Northern California. Meanwhile, another friend, Diane Agustin gave birth to Baby Quintin Ezekiel Resureccion on September 14, 2019 with her husband, John Resureccion, and

Baby Quintin Ezekiel Resureccion

Newly-born twins: Isla & Jacob Alonzo Just recently, a day before Thanksgiving, this writer's niece Kristine had twin babies, Isla and Jacob Alonzo born on November 27, 2019. It was a blessing for new beginnings for both Kristine and Abraham Alonzo which took them a couple of years waiting for the arriv-

likewise, they're so excited to now have a playmate for their son Xavier who will celebrate his 17th birthday soon. On another note, this writer's grandson Marcus, who just graduated High School on May 2019, has just completed his Navy Bootcamp

in Great Lakes, Illinois and is now on Rescue Mission Training in Pensacola, Fla. (same place where the Saudi Arabian shooter incident happened and Marcus was just next door). Though the particular incident rattled all of them at the Naval Training Barracks, all of the new recruits are thankful for their lives that were spared. Now, they're all looking forward to learn everything they set out for themselves, focusing on each of their individual goals. New beginnings also mean NEW challenges set out for everyone. For Kristine and her husband Abraham,

Marcus Dela Cruz For grandson Marcus on the other hand, the big challenge he's currently facing is to be able to ďŹ nish his four-month service training, so he can become a full-pledged Naval service sta personnel ready to serve when a Rescue Mission is warranted. For all these three NEW beginnings and new challenges, 2020 is a time when dreams will become crystal clear realities, to seize the day and thus looking forwards to "seize the year." 'Wishing everyone a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

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‘Best Christmas present': Anne Curtis, Solenn Heussaff share preggy photos

A

nne Curtis and Solenn Heussaff brought some Christmas cheer to netizens after photos of them together appeared on Instagram. In his IG post, Curtis' husband Erwan Heussaff described the twin pregnancies of his wife and sister as "the best Christmas present of all time." Both Solenn and Curtis are due to deliver baby girls next year. He also joked that he will soon be moving in with So-

lenn's husband, model-businessman Nico Bolzico. "Best Christmas present of all time is the fact that both my sister and my wife are pregnant, with due dates that are only separated by a few weeks. You know what that means! Nico and I finally have a legitimate excuse to

BB Gandanghari: ‘Reach out’ to your transgender friends

take the next step in our relationship and move in together. Happy holidays everyone!" Solenn, meanwhile, captioned her IG photo: "To pee or not to pee. That is never the question." Anne and Erwan, who tied the knot in November

IT'S not something one would necessarily consider a gift, but BB Gandanghari shared something on Christmas day that's far more valuable for those who are going through the same difficulties she has in transitioning from male to female — encouragement. In her new video blog she filmed while on her way to her doctor for one of her hormone replacement sessions, upped last December 25, she opened up about feelings of

being "vulnerable emotionally" during the whole process of becoming a woman. She talked about the mood swings caused by having hormones injected into her that drive her "crazy," as well as the "unseen" changes she goes through that's far more difficult to deal with than her physical transformations. She said: "It's hard for hard for a transgender individual to go through tran-

Liza Soberano spends Christmas in new house in US with family, Enrique Gil

L

iza Soberano finally got to spend Christmas in her new house in the United States.

The actress can be seen celebrating with her family and her boyfriend, Enrique Gil, in photos shared on Instagram on Thursday (Manila time). "First Christmas in our new home. Finally have a place to call my own back in the USA. Couldn’t have done it without ABS-CBN and all the brands that have given me their complete trust," Soberano said in an Instagram post. "To all of my LizQuen and Liza supporters

out there, thank you for the unconditional love. Last but not least, thank you, Papa God. You have provided a home for me and the people most dearest to my heart. I will forever give you thanks and praise," she added. In a previous interview, Soberano said she will celebrate the holidays with her family and Gil. The couple will star in the upcoming ABS-CBN series "Make It With You." (ABS-CBN News)

Solenn and Anne 2017, earlier announced that they are expecting a baby girl. Solenn, who is also expecting a baby girl, said: "Our babies will have an instant sister."

sition by themselves. ...It's very difficult kasi you are vulnerable emotionally. So reach out." "[To those who have transgender friends, ask them], because a lot of transgender individuals always have that happy face. You may call it their mask, but it's actually for self-preservation. "Ask them if they're emotionally strong and strengthen them if they're not. And most definitely don't expect

(ABS-CBN News)

them to be strong enough. Let them feel accepted. Not tolerated, accepted. Nearly in tears, she added: "Tell them, from the bottom of your heart, they're more than enough." Gandanghari fi rst came out during the celebrity edition of the ABS-CBN reality show "Pinoy Big Brother" in 2006. A decade later, she was formally recognized as a woman by a Los Angeles court. (ABS-CBN News)

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Saturday-Friday | Dec. 28, 2019 - Jan. 3, 2020

LIFESTYLE

Celebrities freeze their eggs for the future

These ladies went for that expensive procedure to have a healthy baby in the future. IZA CALZADO Iza Calzado admitted to showbiz talk show host Boy Abunda that she froze her eggs. She reasoned out, "I'm actually not that young anymore. It's with the age, and it's a security thing for me. It's a choice.” Not yet ready Iza Calzado and husband Ben Wintle already celebrated their first wedding anniversary on December 19, 2019. The 'Culion' actress said in an interview that she still has a lot to work on before becoming a mom, “Physically, I'm ready. But, just a few more things. I think I'm getting there so, hopefully, by end of next year.” ICE SEGUERRA Singer-actor Ice Seguerra has always been open about having her eggs frozen for his and his wife Liza Dino's baby plan. IVF procedure In a previous interview, Ice related that he and his wife were just waiting for a sperm donor,

preferrably not from the Philippines. VINA MORALES Kapamilya singer went on record in a showbiz website interview that she has decided to freeze her egg cells through mature oocyte cryopreservation. The procedure according to her cost her as much as half a million peso excluding the storage fees. Vina said that she was just preparing for the future if ever she decides to want to have another baby. Ceana Vina gave birth to a healty baby girl with then boyfriend Cedric Lee on April 25,2009, which they named Ceana. DIVINE LEE At the early age of 24, Divine Lee already froze her eggs. Mommy Divine has given birth via caesarian section last May 5. She

and husband Blake Go welcomed a baby boy into their life. If you remember, the couple had a grand wedding last August 2017, which was attented by several TV personalities. MICH DULCE Mich Dulce revealed that her eggs were frozen at the of 35. According to her statement in Preview magazine, she had a long private discussion before going through the procedure. The research Mich added that her research and reflection on financial aspect of the procedure are the factors that she considered. "It was something that I really looked into. I was always interested in doing it, but the year I turned 35 I was like 'You know what, I'm getting older I gotta do it na.' So I started doing research. I was actually being kuripot about it [at first] and wanted to do egg sharing, which is when you get the process for free but you have to donate half of your eggs. I was looking into doing that, but it turned out that I was too old." CRISTALLE BELO Before getting married to Justin Pitt, Cristalle Belo froze her eggs for the sake of her future kids. The skincare entrepreneur announced last March

14 that she and her hubby Justin will be welcoming their first baby this coming July. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome She discussed in June 2015 post in her Instagram account, "I declared in the @lifestyle_asia May issue that I wanted to freeze my eggs because I want to have kids but I'm already getting older (where chances are getting slimmer) and I have been battling with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome since I was a teenager. I finally did it in #FortWorthFertility in Texas." SAM OH It was Padma Lakshma, an Indian supermodel and host, who inspired Sam Oh to freeze her eggs. Conversation She also revealed in her article in Preview that a casual conversation led her to getting the procedure. Sam revealed, "It was actually a friend's visit to the clinic (Kato Repro Biotech Center) that prodded me to check it out. My friend is also single and freezing our eggs came up in one of our conversations. When she finally went in for a consultation and told me about it, I decided to go for a consultation myself and ended up getting the process started that day." AIAI DELAS ALAS

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Aiai delas Alas thought far ahead that she wanted to have k ids w it h husband G era ld Sibayan. The statement The Comedy Queen confessed that she was able to freeze her eggs even before getting married. Aiai divulged in a press conference for her movie in 2017, "Dati pa, noon pa. So walang problema sa eggs." GRETCHEN FULLIDO

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Entertainment reporter Gretchen Fullido decided to keep her eggs frozen at Victory Art Laboratory in Makati. Best gift According to her, this is the best gift she could ever have as she turned 35 years old last June 2019. Gretchen told her Instagram followers, “I just turned 35 years old last June 4. Now I can take control of my life, not rush on anything and have a baby in my own time, in God's perfect time. So excited to share my journey to all women who have been wanting to harvest their eggs. (I've also met other patients who shared their stories and it's truly inspiring.)” (GMA NEWS)

Saturday-Friday Dec. 28, 2019 - Jan. 3, 2020

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LIFESTYLE

From Miss Universe to her love life: Catriona Gray answers questions on ‘Tonight with Boy Abunda’

M

iss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray returned to Tonight with Boy Abunda where she answered questions on life after Miss Universe and what’s up on her plate.

In the two part interview, which aired on December 24 and 25, Catriona answered questions on what she thought about the new Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi, Gazini Ganados' performance, being linked to Sam Milby and Alden Richards, and whether she is in love again. Here's a summary of the interview:

On her farewall walk

It was really a mixture of emotions. It's because this journey has represented so much. It wasn't just a pageant anymore. It became so much more than me, it became not just about my family, or about my team but for the whole of the Philippines, for mga kababayan (our fellow countrymen) na abroad when I would be able to go visit in their home countries like Dubai. Being able to sense the source of pride that would erupt in being able to bring the crown home and to look back on the year on how much I've grown as a person.

One of the "best" Miss Universe titleholders

I am very, very flattered because I always wanted to be just myself during this whole journey. And I wanted to be creative and I want to represent our country

AARP_2016_Happy Pasko_FIL9.75x7.5.indd 1

and I want to bring something new to the table.

Gazini Ganados' performance in Miss Universe

I would have loved to be a fly in the wall within the closed door inter v iew cause I feel like that's when the judges get their first... it's their first impression of the girl, it's their first impression of their personality...that's the first time the judges see the girls. And I am unfortunately don't know how that went. Gazini did really, really well [on the preliminary competition]. She was sultry and her performance was really strong I felt on the ramp.

On the announcement that the Miss Universe Organization will no longer be under Binibining Pilipinas

I heard it first when it came out on the internet actually because it was always hearsay... I actually really think it marks an end of an era because I felt so supported with Binibini, with Madame Stella [Araneta], they gave me such guidance and they really trusted in my creative vision of how I wanted to represent myself

and the Philippines at Miss Universe. And I'm so, so thankful for them and that 50 plus years they've protected the brand and re-lifted pageantry to what is today.

A new chapter after Miss Universe It's an unchartered territory and my life has changed and I have dozes of it every year but I still feel like a simple girl. So I feel like coming back home to the Philippines, it's even more evident on how much my life has changed and I know there will be times that I will be a little bit overwhelmed but I feel like it's such a great blessing also.

Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi

She's very, very eloquent. And I was so proud watching backstage because I was like a fan before my little segment. When the top 10 was announced and all have spoken their opening spiels I'm like wow, what an eloquent batch of women. And I'm so, so proud that it was being reflected in Miss Universe.

On her bare face photo posted during the #AsSheIs challenge on Instagram

I feel like it's a very human experience to feel insecure. But I also feel that there's

this preconceived notion that once you reach a certain level of success or certain likeability, that all those insecurities disappear. And I wanted to post something like this to say no, it doesn't, that no matter who you are and what level of success or walk of life you are in, there will be moments that you'll feel down or insecure or unsure because it's normal.

On being linked to Alden Richards and Sam Milby

I feel like the fans are like shipping which I guess it's [what] fans do. I never met Alden before. And then Sam naman, we go to the same church, we are under the same management so friend naman siya.

Does she block her bashers on social media (part of the segment Yes, No, Maybe)?

I do. It's a very empowering thing for me to do because I feel like I take away their power and I take away the negativity with a push of a button.

Is she in love again (part of the segment Yes, No, Maybe)?

I am in love with the possibilities of the new chapter. (Rappler.com)

12/12/19 11:04 PM

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GLOBAL NEWS

US-PH ties good amid ban on on de de Lima Lima accusers: accusers: Locsin Locsin

MANILA — Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Jr. onAffairs Wednesday catMANILALocsin, — Foreign Secretary egorized as "perfect" relationship Teodoro Locsin, Jr. onthe Wednesday catbetween the Unitedthe States and the egorized as "perfect" relationship Philippines theStates possible between theamid United andtravthe el ban on Filipino officials and trava US Philippines amid the possible Senate resolution condemning el ban on Filipino officials and athe US government over condemning the detentionthe of Senate resolution Senator Leila de Lima. government over the detention of "(It's) perfect... that's the legislative Senator Leila de Lima. branch. The same in Europe, some"(It's) perfect... that's the legislative times theThe legislative branch in the Eubranch. same in Europe, someropean Parliament says something times the legislative branch in the Euagainst the Filipino diplomat ropean us," Parliament saystop something told reporters an interview when against us," thein Filipino top diplomat asked to comment the recent told reporters in anabout interview when moves oncomment de Lima's about releasethe at the US asked to recent Senate, particularly a provision on moves on de Lima's release at the US the US national budget. Senate, particularly a provision on The US appropriations law inthe USsaid national budget. cludes a provision allowing the State The said US appropriations law inDepartment to banallowing the entrythe of State Philcludes a provision ippine government Department to ban officials the entryinvolved of Philin jailing de Lima toofficials the US.involved ippine government thatUS. any couninLocsin jailingrecognized de Lima to the tryLocsin has the right to ban foreign narecognized that any countionals its borders, but he detry has from the right to ban foreign nafended the legality of De Lima's tionals from its borders, but he dedetention, Supreme fended the saying legalitythe of De Lima's Court itselfsaying has said so. detention, the Supreme "Read thehas (US) Court itself said so. resolution, "Read thethe (US) rresolution, esolut ion the says r e s owe l u tare ion giving says weauare thority to giving autthority he ex- to e c u-ext he e c u-

Saturday-Friday | Dec. 28, - Jan. 3, 2020 Saturday-Friday | December 282019 - January Saturday-Friday | December 28 - January 3, 2020

tive branch to look into these people who may have been responsible for tive branch to look into these people the detention of de Lima. My whoillegal may have been responsible for answer is, illegal? Whoofsaid illegal? the illegal detention de it's Lima. My The Supreme Court said no,it's it'sillegal? legal, answer is, illegal? Who said so who wouldCourt you believe?" he said. The Supreme said no, it's legal, Lima, oneyou of President Rodrigo soDe who would believe?" he said. Duterte's staunchest critics, has been De Lima, one of President Rodrigo in detention since February 2017 for Duterte's staunchest critics, has been her alleged involvement in the illegal in detention since February 2017 for drug trade. involvement in the illegal her alleged Aside from the US national budget drug trade. provision, dethe Lima's case was also Aside from US national budget brought upde at Lima's the UScase Senate provision, wasComalso mittee Foreign broughtonup at the Relations, US Senate which Comrecently approved Resolution mittee on ForeignSenate Relations, which 142 that approved condemns the Philippine recently Senate Resolution government for the the continued de142 that condemns Philippine tention of de Lima. government for the continued deWhenofasked how these latest detention de Lima. velopments in Washington would When asked how these DC latest deaffect President Duterte's supposed velopments in Washington DC would US trip, Locsin said the decision affect President Duterte's supposed still the depend on US trip, would Locsin said decision the chief executive. would still depend on problema the "Ang chief executive. hindi "Ang possibility problema (The problem is hindi possibility not (Thewhether problemit's is possible) if he will not whether it's go, it's whether he possible) if he will wa to go. He go,nts it's whether he has hadtosogo. many wa nts He invitations has had soalready many from Presidentalready Trump, invitations he rea l lyTrump, li kes from President D ul tlye rlit kes e ," he rea D uhe t e rsaid. t e ," he(PNA) said. (PNA)

Locsin LOCSIN, JR. LOCSIN, JR.

PH, PH, Saudi Saudi set set to to ink ink treaty treaty on on repatriation repatriation of of inmates inmates

MANILA — The Philippines and Saudi Arabia are Philippines set to finalize a MANILA — The and treaty willare allow Saudi that Arabia setthe to transfer finalizeof a sentenced between the two treaty thatinmates will allow the transfer of countries, a Department of the Justice sentenced inmates between two (DOJ) official said Thursday. countries, a Department of Justice Under the Transfer of Sentenced (DOJ) official said Thursday. Persons (TSPA), Filipino UnderAgreement the Transfer of Sentenced citizens jailed in Saudi may opt to Persons Agreement (TSPA), Filipino complete their jail term inmay prisons citizens jailed in Saudi opt in to the Philippines, DOJ spokesperson complete their jail term in prisons in Usec. Markk Perete DZMM. the Philippines, DOJtold spokesperson Saudi nationals Usec. Markk Pereteincarcerated told DZMM. in the Philippines canincarcerated also request in to Saudi nationals be a correctional thetransferred Philippinestocan also requestfato cility in their home he said. be transferred to a country, correctional fa"Based on humanitarian cility in their home country, considhe said. eration talaga siya kasi angconsidtheory "Based on humanitarian behind is massiya madaling marehaeration it talaga kasi ang theory bilitate mga prisonersmarehaif 'yung behind'yung it is mas madaling support system ay nandiyan, bilitate 'yung mganila prisoners if 'yung halimbawa mga nila family support system ay members," nandiyan, he said. halimbawa mga family members," is based on humanitarian conhe(It said. sideration because the theoryconbe(It is based on humanitarian hind it is prisoners rehabilsideration becausecan the be theory beitated if their support system, hind itfaster is prisoners can be rehabillike family are there.) itated fastermembers, if their support system, "Mas madali silangare magbagong like family members, there.) buhay parating pinupuntahan "Maskung madali silang magbagong sila ngkung kanilang mgapinupuntahan kapamilya," buhay parating he silasaid. ng kanilang mga kapamilya," is easier for prisoners to change he(It said. their if they are frequently vis(It islife easier for prisoners to change ited their family.) theirby life if they are frequently visIt will also be easier for inmates to ited by their family.) beItreintegrated into society if they will also be easier for inmates to are confined in ainto facility where ofbe reintegrated society if they ficials speak the language, are confined in same a facility wherethe ofspokesperson said. ficials speak the same language, the The treaty covers spokesperson said. all convicted Filipino and Saudi nationals, except The treaty covers all convicted for thoseand whoSaudi "committed [a crime] Filipino nationals, except against head of the government for thosethe who "committed [a crime] or casesthe considered political," against head of theasgovernment Perete said. or cases considered as political," Filipinos Perete said.who were charged with Filipinos who were charged with

murder in the Middle Eastern state must settled bloodEastern money state first, murder in thethe Middle before he or the she blood can request be must settled moneyto first, transferred thecan Philippines. before he ortoshe request to be "Kung siyato mismo (prisoner) ayaw transferred the Philippines. bumalik sa Pilipinas at dito tapusin "Kung siya mismo (prisoner) ayaw 'yung kaniyang sintensya, then hinbumalik sa Pilipinas at dito tapusin di magkaniyang a-apply 'yung TSPA," he said. 'yung sintensya, then hinthe prisoner does not want to di(If mag a-apply 'yung TSPA," he said. go(If back the Philippines comtheto prisoner does not to want to plete histo orthe herPhilippines sentence here, then go back to comthe cannot be applied his pleteTSPA his or her sentence here,tothen or case.) theher TSPA cannot be applied to his orPrisoners her case.) who are sentenced to less than 6 months are usually not Prisoners who are sentenced to covered the TSPAare as usually the "transless thanby 6 months not fer work"by usually takes half a covered the TSPA asabout the "transyear, the undersecretary said.half a fer work" usually takes about "It might not be efficient for us year, the undersecretary said. to"It askmight na ibalik dito sa kulungan not be efficient for us pero exemption dinkulungan tayo like to askmay na ibalik dito sa for humanitarian considerations," pero may exemption din tayo like he for said. humanitarian considerations," might not be efficient for us he(It said. to(It askmight for a prisoner to be returned not be efficient for us here he or she has 6to months of jail to askif for a prisoner be returned time butshe there exemptions here ifleft, he or hasare 6 months of jail like consideratimefor left,humanitarian but there are exemptions tions.) like for humanitarian consideraThe DOJ is trying to have a simtions.) ilar treaty Italy,toChina, The DOJ with is trying have aUAE, simPerete said.with Italy, China, UAE, ilar treaty "Inuna nating mag negotiate with Perete said. Saudi Arabia because we know na "Inuna nating mag negotiate with maraming Pilipino angwe nakakulong Saudi Arabia because know na doon," he said, noting that about maraming Pilipino ang nakakulong 900 Filipinos arenoting jailed in theabout Aradoon," he said, that bic while another 900Kingdom, Filipinos are jailed in the1,000 Araoverseas Filipino workers are facing bic Kingdom, while another 1,000 cases there. overseas Filipino workers are facing Thethere. TSPA with Saudi Arabia is cases expected to be signed "early next The TSPA with Saudi Arabia is year," Perete said. expected to be signed "early next OncePerete signed by both parties, the year," said. Senate havebytoboth ratifyparties, the agreeOncewill signed the ment it can Senatebefore will have to take ratifyeffect. the agreeNews) ment before it can(ABS-CBN take effect. (ABS-CBN News)

Duterte Duterte to to decline decline Trump's Trump's invitation invitation to to visit visit White White House House

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte will decline United States President Donald invitation to the Whitewill House, Malacañang said Friday. MANILATrump's — President Rodrigo Duterte decline United States President TrumpTrump's first invited Duterte to visit Washington in 2016 oversaid a phone call. Donald invitation to the White House, Malacañang Friday. "He (Duterte) said he wouldtorespond to the letter-invitation and would Trump first invited Duterte visit Washington in 2016 over a phone call. decline it," Duterte's SalvadortoPanelo said. "He (Duterte) saidspokesman he would respond the letter-invitation and would Trump's was broughtSalvador to publicPanelo attention after President Duterte decline it,"invitation Duterte's spokesman said. ordered a ban on 2 US senators supportive of his critic, detained Sen. Leila Trump's invitation was brought to public attention after President Duterte de Lima.a ban on 2 US senators supportive of his critic, detained Sen. Leila ordered (Duterte) said he never intended to visit the US ever since," Panelo said. de"He Lima. Panelo, however, Duterte noUS ill feelings towards Trump "He (Duterte) saidclarified he neverthat intended to bears visit the ever since," Panelo said. even after however, the Republican leader the US government's 2020 Panelo, clarified thatsigned Duterte bears no ill feelings$1.4-trillion towards Trump budget that included a provision on a possible ban on Filipino government even after the Republican leader signed the USUS government's $1.4-trillion 2020 officials involved in the "wrongful DeFilipino Lima. government budget that included a provision on imprisonment" a possible US banofon In his previous Duterteimprisonment" has repeatedly said would never visit officials involvedspeeches, in the "wrongful of Dehe Lima. the States speeches, during hisDuterte presidency but has never issued a formal InUnited his previous has repeatedly said he would neverstatevisit ment on theStates matter. (ABS-CBN News) but has never issued a formal statethe United during his presidency ment on the matter. (ABS-CBN News)

US PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP AND PHILIPPINE PRESIDENT RODRIGO DUTERTE US PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP AND PHILIPPINE PRESIDENT RODRIGO DUTERTE

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Holy Spirit Thou who make me see everything and show me the For adver tising, call (818) 552-4503 • email: adver tising@balita.com way to reach my ideal, You who give me the divine gift to forgive PRAYERS PRAYERS and forget the wrong that is done toPRAYER me andTO who are JUDE in all instances SAINT P PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Most Holy Apostle St. Jude Thaddeus, faithful servant and friend of O Glorious St Jesus, the name of the traitor who delivered your beloved Master Holy Spirit Thou who make me see everything and show me the of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank You for and inspire the CAREGIVERS CAREGIVERS CAREGIVERS CAREGIVERS CAREGIVERS into the hands of the enemies has caused you to be forgotten by CAREGIVERS CAREGIVERS way to reach my ideal, You who give me the divine gift to forgive You are so po many, but the Church honors and invokes you universally as the and forget the wrong that is done to me and who are in all instances the Heart of G patron of hopeless cases and of things despaired of. Pray for HYHU\WKLQJ DQG FRQ¿UP RQFH PRUH WKDW , QHYHU ZDQW WR EH VHSDUDWHG me who am so needy; make use, I implore you of that particular Miracles... the of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank You for privilege accorded to you to bring visible and speedy help where beseech you everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated RN CAREGIVER CAREGIVER NEEDED MALE CAREGIVER LIVE-IN CAREGIVER CAREGIVERS from You no matter how great thedespaired. material desires mayinbe. I want help is almost Come to my assistance this great need out your prom from You no matter how great the material desires may be. I want that I may receive the consolations and succor of heaven in all my CAREGIVER CARETAKER letting fall fro to be Board with You and loved ones in Your perpetual glory. Amen.is necessities, tribulations, and sufferings particularly (here mention &myCare inbe North Hollywood Female RN edu reliever live-in w/ Asap. Boarding care facility, papers Needed in Board & Care in Woodland to with You and my loved ones in Your perpetual glory. Amen. me your child F o r e l d e r y f a c i l i t y. u s t e your petition) and that Ilmay bless God with youM and all the b elect (A person must pray this for three consecutive days without stating experiences o Female full-time live-in caregivers or Live-in for Elderly woman. Some throughout eternity. I promise you, O blessed Jude to be ever his wish. After the 3rd day the wish will be granted, no matter how w/o papers, live-in preferred, salary looking for a caring & responsible Therese, my meals. Care for wife 240/day xtra Hills. Call 818-288-5406. mindful of this consecutive great favor, and I willdays never cease to honorstating you as my (A person must pray this for three without difficult it may be. Promise to publish this as soon as your favor has known everyw ¿QJHUSULQWHG WUDLQ LI power QHFHVVDU\ special and powerful patron:LOO and to do all in my to encourage for board and care in Valencia. negotiable. experience. Call 310-927-2823. W/ or w/o experience, we part-time No experience devotion to you. Amen. THANK YOU - ARDY through you. A - OMEL been granted. Grateful caregiver. Thanks) - God bless his wish. After the 3rd day the wish will be granted, no matter how sleep, res time over time & holiday Call 818-381-3449. Call 760-680-7755. can train. Call 909-354-2271. necessary. Call 818-982-6518. GLI¿FXOW LW PD\ EH 3URPLVH WR SXEOLVK WKLV DV VRRQ DV \RXU IDYRU KDV JOB OPPORTUNITIES? SERVICES? RENTAL SPACES? NEW OR pays. Located at Anaheim CA area. been granted. Grateful Thanks) - God bless - ATE VIV 310-480-9716 Paul. PRAYERS

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way to reach my ideal, You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and who are in all instances of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank You for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from You no matter how great the material desires may be. I want

for DDglory. Amen. to be with You and myCa loved Your perpetual eded iversinne regones

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Most Holy Apostle St. Jude Thaddeus, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the name of the traitor who delivered your beloved Master into the hands of the enemies has caused you to be forgotten by many, but the Church honors and invokes you universally as the patron of hopeless cases and of things despaired of. Pray for WTD seeking an Administrative Assistant that me who amisso needy;for make use, I implore you of that particular privilege to you to bring visible and speedy help is accorded driven, enthusiastic, self-motivated and able towhere help isdo almost despaired.ofCome to my assistance in this great multi-tasking various administrative tasks, to need that I may receive the consolations and succor of Executive heaven in all my provide support for the activities of the necessities, tribulations, sufferings particularly (hereand mention Management Team •and Must have pleasant attitude is your petition) and that I may bless God with you and all the elect a team player • Must be proďŹ cient in Microsoft Outlook, throughout eternity. I Marilyn promise you,626-407-9204 O blessed Jude to be ever Contact Word andgreat Excel andand other software • OfďŹ ce mindful of this favor, I willcomputer never cease to honor you as my leave message) is located in La (Pls. Mirada, California, hours from special and powerful patron and toado all inofďŹ ce my power to is encourage MondayTHANK to Friday devotion to you. Amen. YOU08:00-17:30 - ARDY

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PRAYER TO BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail). O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of St. Heaven, Blessed Mother the Son God,of Most Holy Apostle Jude Thaddeus, faithful of servant andof friend Immaculate Virgin,of assist me in my necessity. O your Star of the Sea, help Jesus,Immediately the name the looking traitor who delivered beloved for experienced &Master intoand theshow hands the enemies causedOyou to Mary, be forgotten by me meofherein you are has my Mother. Holy Mother of compassionate live-in caregivers, couple for many, but the Church honors and invokes you universally as the God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the patron of hopeless and of things despairedBar, of. Pray for elderly & cases DD facility in Diamond bottom of my to succor me in my necessity There me who amheart so needy; make use, I implore (make you ofrequest). that particular Covina and Realto area. privilege accorded to youyour to bring visible and speedy without help where are none that can withstand power. O Mary conceived sin, helpResponsible is us almost Come to (3 my assistance in this great for personal care, medication, pray for who despaired. have recourse to thee times). Holy Mary, I place need that I may receive the consolations and succor of heaven cook, clean, activity, Dr. appt. this cause in your hands (3 times). 3and Oursufferings Father, 3 Hail Mary, 3 Glory in all my necessities, tribulations, particularly (here BeSay thisyour prayer for 3 consecutive days.bless You must publish and all it mention petition) and that I may God with youit,and Please the(NEAR elect throughout eternity. I promise you, OHILLS blessed Jude to be - Trupti KORY will be granted to call you.PARK CANOGA AND WOODLAND AREA!) ever mindful of this great favor, and I will never cease to honor you as my special and powerful patron and to do all in my power to encourage devotion to you.PRAYER Amen. THANK YOU - ABA

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(PLEASE CALL BETWEEN AM. AND 5 PM. PRAYER TO THE HOLY9SPIRIT PRAYERS OHoly Glorious Therese, whom Almighty God has raised up to me aid SpiritSt. Thou who make me see everything and show theinspire way tothe reach myfamily, ideal. You who give me the divine gift to and human I implore your Miraculous Intercession. PRAYER TO SAINT THERESE forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and who are in You are so powerful obtaining every of body and spirit from O St.of Therese, whom Almighty God has dialogue, raised up want to aid allGlorious instances myinlife with me. I, inneed this short the Heart ofthe God. Holyfamily, Mother Church proclaims youIntercession. ‘Prodigy of and inspire human Iand implore Miraculous to thank You for everything conďŹ your rm once more that I never wantare to so bethe separated You matter how great the material You powerful in from obtaining every need of body and from Miracles... Greatest Saint ofno Modern Times.’ Now I spirit fervently desires may IHoly wantMother to petition be Church with (mention You and here) my you loved ones inof the Heartyou of God. proclaims ‘Prodigy beseech tobe. answer my and to carry Your perpetual glory. Amen. ( of A person must pray thisIfor three Miracles... the Greatest Saint Modern Times.’ Now fervently out your promises spending Heaven doing good consecutive days of without stating his wish. After theon 3rdearth...of day the beseech toHeaven answer petition here) andPromise to give carry letting fallyou from Shower of(mention Roses. wish will be granted, noamy matter how diďŹƒ cult itLittle may Flower, be. out your promises of spending Heaven doing good on earth...of to publish this asfaith, soontoassee your favor has granted. Grateful me your childlike the Face of been God in the people and letting fall—GINA from Heaven a Shower of Roses. Little Flower, give Thanks) experiences of my life, and to love God with full confidence. St. me your childlike faith, to see the Face of God in the people and Therese, my Carmelite Sister, I will fulfill your plea ‘to be made H[SHULHQFHV RI P\ OLIH DQG WR ORYH *RG ZLWK IXOO FRQÂżGHQFH 6W known everywhere’ and I will continue to lead others to Jesus 7KHUHVH P\ &DUPHOLWH 6LVWHU , ZLOO IXOÂżOO \RXU SOHD ÂľWR EH PDGH through you. Amen THANK YOU - SHAHELA known everywhere’ and I will continue to lead others to Jesus

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ARE YOU READY TO GIVE UP USING PLASTIC STRAWS?

18

Weekend

BALITA

Saturday-Friday | Dec. 28, 2019 - Jan. 3, 2020

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HOME & COMPANION

Why are

DOGS

Scared of Fireworks?

F

ireworks are a fun and exciting way to celebrate holidays like New Year. For dogs, though, those loud booms and flashing lights aren’t so fun. More pets run away on the fourth of July and on New Year’s eve than any other days of the year. So it’s critical to ensure people can identify your dog and contact you if he runs off out of fear. Getting him microchipped well in advance of such holidays is a smart decision. It’s also a good idea to attach identification tags to his collar. Below are some reasons dogs are scared of fireworks, followed by ways you can help ease your dog’s fears and keep him calm.

1. They’re Loud

Most fi reworks make some kind of loud sound. Dogs have a more acute sense of hearing than humans, so those loud booms, crackles, and whistles are alarming.

2. They’re Unpredictable

You expect fireworks on holidays, but for your dog, it’s just another day. Those firecrackers come without warning. The loud noises and flashing lights sound and look different

DOG TAG ART

each time. Plus, they come at different intervals, so dogs can’t get used to them.

3. They Pose a Threat

The noise and unpredictability of fireworks lead many dogs to perceive them as a threat. This triggers their fight-or-flight response. Your dog may bark at the noises or try to run away and hide. He may show other signs of anxiety, too, like restlessness, panting, pacing, and whining.

4. Fireworks Make Dogs Feel Trapped

Fireworks are inescapable on New Year’s eve. So if the noises trigger your dog’s flight response, he will try to run from the threat. Unfortunately, there’s often nowhere to go, as you can still hear those loud booms indoors.

Keep Your Dog Safe and Calm During Fireworks

As you can see, dogs have good reasons to fear fi reworks. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help your dog feel safe and secure. Keep Him Inside: Even if your dog spends most of his time outdoors, bring him inside during firework displays. This will prevent him from running away when he feels scared, which can put him in danger. Create a Safe Space: If your dog is crate-trained, make his crate available, as that’s probably already a safe space for him. If not, put him in a bathroom or other small room with music or white noise to help drown out the boom of fireworks. Bringing his bed, blankets, and toys into the room can make him feel more comfortable. Try a Calming Wrap: Calming wraps, vests, and shirts apply light, constant pressure. Many dogs find this soothing and calming. You may find such products help in other anxiety-in-

ducing situations, like thunderstorms. Desensitize: Start working with your dog far enough in advance to desensitize him to fireworks and other loud noises. You can start this process by playing fireworks sounds on a low level while playing with your dog and giving him treats. Over time, slowly increase the sound of the fireworks during these play sessions. Eventually, your dog will associate the sound of fireworks with happy and fun moments. Not all dogs are afraid of fireworks, but it’s important to remember your dog will take cues from you. If you make a big deal out of them when he’s not scared, he may eventually develop anxiety about fireworks. So make an effort to keep your dog calm, but remember to remain calm yourself. When you understand why dogs are scared of fireworks, you can better address your dog’s fears and help him stay calm. (purina.com)

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19

HEALTH & FAMILY

Boost our daughters' confidence this 2020 with body positivity

A

s Filipinos, we know how social media has given rise to ideas and stories that can influence our perception of the world, even more so of ourselves. However, it is not always in the most encouraging way. The youth, especially teenage girls— impressionable as they are—are prone to this. In a Dove study released at a recent event, it was revealed that over half of the world’s girls have low self-esteem.

of the words I say,” shared Gabby Limjoco, mom and guest speaker. She is the founding partner and director of Play Works Early Childhood Center, a playschool for early childhood development.

2. Shut down stereotypes

Filipino false notions of ideal appearance should have no place among family and friends. The maputi is maganda or straight hair is better than kulot, as examples, should be extinguished from our collective beauty repertoire. “In general, Filipinos should stop commenting on physical traits when bantering as if it’s a form of affection. Be tactful especially with kids. It’s just opening the conversation and helping The makings of a healthy self-esteem starts at them to know that there are other things to highlight that isn’t home and while they are young. Philstar.com/Kat Leandicho skin color, weight, the texture of hair. Open conversations on othThis must be changed and let's start er things” said Limjoco in an exclusive this 2020 through the Dove Self Esteem interview with Philstar.com. Project. Since 2004, it has aimed to help She was echoed by co-guest speaker young people all over the world develop and fellow mom Janice Villanueva, who a positive relationship with the way they is also a parenting advocate, teacher, look, thereby raise their self-esteem and mom-preneur, and founder of Mommy realize their full potential. Mundo. Recently, the Dove Self Esteem Project held the forum aptly dubbed Girl Talk. 3. Set examples, relatable Here are some of the things we learned, conversations which we hope you can learn as well, Since parents, teachers and caregivers from the forum: are the primary individuals whom children and teens look up to in their early 1. Start in the home years, they should themselves learn to Growing teens should be getting the set the bar when it comes to building best counsel as they develop their sense self-esteem and a positive outlook. of “self.” There is, of course, no better “When we make comments about place for this than the home. As a living ourselves and others, I’m sure they pick space with family, it should be a sanctu- up on that. It’s also about pushing our ary where they should be free to express children to try new things, so we have themselves, and freer to ask questions to step up on our game because they about their bodies that are still going really watch us. Open up about yourself, through significant changes. and then make it a teaching moment. “As a mom, you want to guide your Let them know that it’s okay to come to kids, but being careful of how you say you for anything, that they won’t always things without hurting them—without be met with anger or disapproval,” said being so critical—it’s trying to be aware Villanueva.

ATHLETES ARE BETTER AT TUNING OUT BACKGROUND BRAIN NOISE PEOPLE who play sports appear to have an enhanced ability to process sounds from their environment, according to new research. Scientists at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, measured brain activity relating to sound processing in athletes and nonathletes. They found that due to a stronger ability to lessen the background electrical noise in their brains, the athletes were better at processing signals from external sounds. The team reports the findings in a recent paper in the journal Sports Health: A Multidisciplinary Approach. For the study, Prof. Kraus and colleagues measured brain activity related to sound processing. They used a measure called the frequency-following response (FFR). Differences in sound processing To measure a person's FFRs, the researcher places electrodes on their scalp and records an electroencephalogram (EEG) of activity in the part of the brain that processes sound. Scientists are increasingly using FFRs to explore differences in auditory brain function among individuals. So, for the new study, they wanted to test the hypothesis "that playing sports is a form of enrichment that results in greater FFR amplitude." The researchers compared the FFRs of 495 Northwestern University male and female student athletes with those of a similar number of nonathletes that they had matched for sex and age. The athletes were all members of Northwestern Division I teams. Their sports in-

cluded soccer, football, and hockey. For each participant, they measured three values of FFR amplitude: the size of the response to a test sound, the size of the background noise in the brain, and the ratio of the two measures. The test sound was "the speech syllable 'da,'" and the participants listened to it through earbuds. Reduction in background neural noise The results showed that compared to the nonathletes, the athletes had more significant responses to the test sound, which the authors note as being due to "a reduction in their level of background neural noise." "Think of background electrical noise in the brain like static on the radio," Prof. Kraus explains. To hear what the person on the radio is saying, the listener must either reduce the static or increase the speaker's voice. The findings suggest that athletes' brains lessen the background static to hear the listener better. An example of this on the playing field would be hearing the shouts and yells of team players and coaches during practice and matches. Musicians and people who are fluent in more than one language are also more skilled at hearing external sounds, Prof. Kraus remarks. However, the way their brains achieve it is different to that of athletes, she explains. They do it by turning up the sound, whereas athletes do it by turning down the background noise in the brain. (medicalnewstoday.com)

Moms are the primary individuals whom children and teens look up to in their early years. It's important that moms learn to set the bar when it comes to building self-esteem and a positive outlook. Philstar.com/Kat Leandicho

4. Encourage social media literacy

It has been said time and again that not everything is what it seems, and this is truest about what teens see online. Since it seems counterproductive to ban teens from going online, an effective way around it is to strengthen social media literacy. Teach teens about “healthy skepticism” so that they gauge and discern truths from falsehoods, stave off anxieties through a smarter and more nuanced approach.

A reliable resource

When it comes to teaching young teens about body positivity and building self-esteem, parents, teachers, and

primary caregivers need all the help they can get. That’s why the Dove Self Esteem Projects (DSEP) has all the resources online to guide them every step of the way. Since its establishment, DSEP has reached more than 20 million young people across 139 countries. Its ambition is to touch 20 million more lives by the end of 2020, with 2 million expected to come from the Philippines. Together with global education experts, all DSEP modules have guided discussions and engaging exercises that cover topics such as Learning to Love Yourself, Body Talk, Media Literacy, Bullying, and Teasing at Home. (Philstar.com)

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Siargao gets int'l praise as 8th best 2020 holiday destination

Saturday-Friday Saturday-Friday | December | Dec. 28, 282019 - January - Jan. 3, 2020

TRAVEL

MANILA — Philippine destinations are on a roll this year, with Siargao earning the latest international praise from luxury travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler, which named it eighth among 20 best holiday destinations for 2020. Described as a tiny Philippine island giving Bali a run for its money, Condé Nast Traveler hailed the teardrop-shaped tropical island for “its gnarly surf breaks, including the legendary Cloud 9 barreling wave.” “Siargao is fringed with pristine beaches, tree frog-green mangrove forests, and sweeping groves of coconut palms, and it’s little wonder tourism here is gathering pace,” CNT writers Lizzie Pook and Tabitha Joyce said. “Less than a 10th of the size of Bali, the island feels the way the Indonesian hotspot did three decades ago: scooters with surfboard racks ferry people about the streets, convenience stores pour petrol from glass Coca Cola bottles and farmers sell rice – dried on tarpaulins at the side of the main road –at the local market,” they added. Siargao was also praised for the variety of activities it offers aside from surfing, such as island-hopping to the nearby white sand-ringed islets of Daku, Guyam, and Naked Island. “And here at Condé Nast Traveler, we always have one eye on the surf scene (where boarders flock, eco-entrepreneurs, independent hotels, and small businesses tend to follow), and we’re predicting that during the next year, a tiny Philippine island will be stealing a cool crowd (whether they surf or not) from Bali,” the CNT editorial wrote. Siargao bested Kyoto, Japan at rank 20 and Paris, France which was ninth on the list. In 2018, Condé Nast Traveler also named the island as the 2018 Top Island in Asia. (PNA)

This resort in Palawan goes the extra mile in responsible tourism By Angelo G. Garcia PUERTO PRINCESA, PALAWAN — Astoria Palawan recently officially launched its new Premier Villas, a collection of luxury accommodations that has been added to their Puerto Princesa property. Covering eight hectares of a former mango orchard in Barangay San Rafael, the sprawling resort is one of only a handful of five-star resorts in Palawan's capital. What's different about the resort is it keeps things green. Being located in the country's “Last Frontier,” Astoria Hotels and Resorts, the resort's mother company, made sure that it builds with minimal impact to the immediate environment. “Astoria works closely with renowned architectural firm of Ed Gallego &Architects to ensure that we design our property to highlight the environmental beauty of our surroundings. Our design and construction strategy always takes the sensitivities of the environmental condition of the area into consideration with the end in mind that we need to preserve and enhance what is natural in the area and integrate it into the whole Astoria Palawan experience,” explained Astoria Hotels and Resorts chief operating officer Vivian Ng. The Astoria group, a Filipino hospitality company, has several properties around the Philippines including in Ortigas, Makati, two in Boracay, and one in Bohol. Astoria Palawan made sure to build the new villas with little to no impact to the environment. Photo by author

When the company built the resort in Palawan, it made sure to preserve as many mango trees in the property. There is also a continuous effort to rehabilitate the reefs in the waters, which were destroyed by bad fishing practices. The resort also invested in an eco-digester to dispose of food waste. They also have their own water filtration and processing system that supplies the potable water. Refillable glass water bottles are provided in rooms instead of plastic bottled water. The resort also use solar energy for a portion of its electricity needs and uses e-trikes in ferrying guests around the resort. They also have their own sewage treatment plant and a desalination plant. UPSCALE VILLAS Sustainability was also a priority when the resort built the new cluster of rooms. The Premier Villas are located nearest to the beach. There are six villas and each villa is divided into five rooms. Portions are elevated following the topography of the land.

The new and very spacious Premier Villa room. Photo by author

“We wanted to create a luxurious experience for our guests, with expansive villas that they could have every amenity in. In our one-bedroom and two-bedroom villas, we have a dining table, kitchen, living room set. Essentially, our guests are transported to a tranquil island getaway but with all the comforts of a modern home. We believe that this experience gives them the best of both worlds,” Ng said. The unique feature of the rooms are the high ceilings. The rooms are very spacious with an open bathroom concept. The design is modern with a polished concrete finish. It also has a full functioning kitchen. Some of the features of the room are the brightly colored wall décor, like art inspired by Palawan's marine life and an actual surfboard. The yellow and gray weave furniture adds more color to the room. The villas surround an infinity pool and a smaller Jacuzzi-like pool. It's beside one of the resort's restaurant called Habitat and just a few steps away from the Palawan Waterpark, which Astoria also owns and operates. “With the new luxury villas, our guests have a new experience that is more private and with a direct view and access to the beachfront. This introduces a more upscale experience to the resort. The space has been designed for maximum flexibility while providing the privacy needed. It can enlarge to connect rooms, or close off and be a private space,” she said. A PARTNER OF SUBARAW The resort is an active member of the Puerto Princesa community. Aside from working with local communities and helping locals with livelihood programs, Astoria Palawan is one of the partners of the local government in the Subaraw Biodiversity Festival. Held every November 11, Subaraw Biodiversity Festival started last year to celebrate the Puerto Princesa Undergound River (PPUR). The famous subterranean river was announced as one of the “New 7 Wonders of Nature” in 2011, and in 2014, the Philippine government declared November 11 as “Puerto Princesa Underground River Day.” “We started celebrating in 2014 until 2017 as a local event. Then starting 2018, before the start of the PPUR celebrations, we conceptualized to make this into a national event. Having realized in the whole country, most of the festivals are based on religion, we thought that here in Puerto Princesa, we have a different festival, it's about biodiversity. PPUR Day was transformed into Subaraw Biodiversity Festival,” explained Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron. Subaraw is a contraction of two words: “suba” means river and “taraw” means limestone cliff. The festival is aimed at celebrating not only the river

but the biodiversity of the city. “It's a celebration of biodiversity because, our national park which is inside the World Heritage Site is very rich in biodiversity. Not only in land but also in the sea. We are thankful because of how rich life is here, in terms of biodiversity,” Bayron said. Most of the activities in the festival centered on the promotion and raising awareness for the protection of Palawan's biodiversity. One of the activities called “Subarun” is a fun run that requires participants to give at least one eco-brick (plastic bottle densely stuffed with shredded plastic) as “ticket.” There was also “Scubasura” which challenged scuba divers to collect as much trash they can get in the waters of Puerto Princesa. The festival also held the float competition where participants from the public and private sector create floats made of recycled materials. Astoria Palawan won the competition in the large category last year and this year, they placed second place with their marine lifethemed float. “The float is made of fruit of nipa palm, which is used to make kaong for fruit salad. The float took about three weeks to be finished. When you think and work on something from the heart, then that's the best,” shared Astoria Palawan general manager Joy Suarez. FUTURE EXPANSION Astoria Hotels and Resorts has big plans for the future. The company is adding more rooms at Astoria Palawan and is set to add more rooms in the Bohol property. The company is also building a boutique-style hotel in Siargao, which is targeted to open in 2022. “With six properties under our belt, we are set to build our seventh, which will be Astoria Siargao. This will sit on an 8,000-sq.m. property directly facing the famous Cloud 9 beachfront,” Ng said. “Astoria has always strived to develop boutique-sized and boutique-styled properties in prime beach locations and Astoria Siargao definitely hits the spot. As such, we are excited to be developing an opening room inventory of 100 rooms as our initial foray into the location. We target our development in increments to be able to develop a deeper understanding of the locality before expanding our projects to a larger scale,” she added. (ABS-CBN News) The winning float in this year's Subaraw Biodiversity Festival by Yamang Bukid Farms. Photo by author

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SPORTS

2019 is a history-making year for Philippine sports

S

ports is also about making history. And the year 2019 is in many ways massive. Here are some of the reasons why: Ateneo continues to smash records in collegiate basketball

Why is Ateneo’s three-peat run impressive?

In 2017, the Blue Eagles defeated a La Salle team with a monster of a foreign player in Ben Mbala. The next season, they took down a very good UP team. Then for the trifecta, they knocked down a young UST team. Two veteran teams in La Salle and UP and a young one in UST. That reminds me of the Eagles’ fivepeat from 2008-2012 where they beat La Salle, FEU twice, UE and UST. That means they faced all challenges and was convincing in its wins over a talent-laden FEU team that came up alongside them. What makes their run all the more impressive is Ateneo is 8-8 in local tournaments. How difficult is that? The five-peat teams won 16 trophies in all competitions, but the longest streak was five. This team has won 8-8. What team has done that? Furthermore, their title run for Season 82 saw them go 16-0, obliterating the unbeaten 14-0 run of UST in 1993 (in the last of the pre-Final Four years). UAAP Season 80 City Hoops Filoil Premier Cup Breakdown Basketball Invitationals UAAP Season 81 Champions League D-League UAAP Season 82

and he is the second Pinoy thus far to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics along with pole vaulter Ernest John Obiena.

Manny Pacquiao continues to defy Father Time

history. At 41, he dealt Keith Thurman his first loss and claimed the WBA super welterweight belt as a result. His record is at an amazing 62-7-2. He is 3-0 in the last two years. You think he can’t keep this up?

And let’s leave it to Manny Pacquiao to continue to make

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The Philippines is a box office draw in the SEA Games

Speaking of recording breaking, the Philippines’ performance in the recently concluded Southeast Asian Games was one for the books. Hounded by problems in the early days of the hosting, the country’s showing on the playing field not to mention the terrific stories wrapped around many of them more than made up for the former. The result of 149 gold, 117 silver, and 121 bronze medals for a total haul of 387 is the Philippines’ best ever and it is the first time the country finished as the over-all champion.

Philippine football is back!

Adding to the historic touch, 2019 has been quite a year for the Philippine men’s national football team. The Azkals made their historic Asian Cup debut but were not able to get out of the group stage finishing 0-3 in Group C. The consolation was Stephan Schrock scored the country’s first ever goal in the competition (in a 3-1 loss to Kyrgyzstan). The Azkals though are still battling it out in the second round of the Asian Qualifiers for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. In Group A, they are behind leaders Syria and China in the five-nation bracket with a 2-1-2 record. They have three matches to play next year — against Guam (March 26), China, (June 4) and Maldives (June 9). And more news on Philippine football: Qatar Airways in sponsoring the Philippine Football League! How cool is that?

Gymnastics takes a bold new leap

Another athlete out to make history for flag and country is gymnast Michael Yulo. For the longest time, the only gymnast in any Filipino’s mind is the now-retired Bea Lucero. Yulo is changing that

(Philstar.com)

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MOVIES

MMFF 2019 awards night: Complete list of winners MANILA — Who went home as winners? Check out the complete list of all those who received trophies at the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2019 Gabi ng Parangal at New Frontier Theater in Cubao, Friday night:

Gatpuno Antonio J Villegas Cultural Award "Mindanao" Best Visual Effects "Mindanao"

Best Actress Judy Ann Santos - "Mindanao"

Best Production Design "Sunod"

Best Actor Allen Dizon - "Mindanao"

Best Original Song "Ikaw ang Akin" - "Write About Love"

Best Picture "Mindanao"

Best Musical Score "Write About Love"

2nd Best Picture "Write About Love"

Best Sound "Mindanao"

3rd Best Picture "Sunod"

Best Child Performer Yuna Tangod - "Mindanao"

Best Director Brillante Mendoza - "Mindanao"

Gender Sensitive Award "Mindanao"

Vilma Santos-Recto Maricel Soriano

Special Jury Prize (writing) Crisanto Aquino - "Write About Love"

Best Float "Mindanao"

Special Jury Prize (cast) "Culion"

Best Student Short Film Award "Pamana ni Lola"

Best Supporting Actress Eugene Domingo Cherie Gil

Best Screenplay "Write About Love" Best Supporting Actress Yeng Constantino - "Write About Love" Best Supporting Actor Joem Bascon - "Write About Love" FPJ Memorial Award "Mindanao"

MMFF HALL OF FAME AWARDEES Industry Stalwarts Marichu Vera-Perez Boots Anson-Rodrigo Bienvenido Lumbera Joseph Estrada Best Actor Anthony Alonzo Christopher De Leon Best Actress Nora Aunor Amy Austria

Brillante Mendoza’s “Mindanao,” which stars Judy Ann Santos (pictured), was the big winner of the night. “Mindanao” Facebook page

Best Director Marilou Diaz-Abaya Joel Lamangan Jose Javier Reyes Best Screenplay/Story Roy Iglesias Ricky Lee Jose Javier Reyes Best Cinematographer Rudy Lacap Lee Meily Carlo Mendoza

Romy Vitug Best Sound Engineer Ditoy Aguila Michael Albert Idioma Rolly Ruta Best Musical Score Dionisio Buencamino Von de Guzman Jaime Fabregas Jessie Lasaten Best Editor Vito Cajili Manet Dayrit Jess Navaroo Edgardo Vinarao Best Visual Effects Roadrunner Network, Inc.

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