What does Trump’s indictment mean to Filipinos

“What separates the winners from the losers is how a person reacts to each new twist of fate.”

— Donald Trump

 

By Alex P. Vidal

 

WHEN it comes to indicting a former president, the Philippines is “ahead” of the United States.

Before Donald Trump was indicted by the Manhattan grand jury in New York March 30 for hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election to become the first American former president indicted for a crime, Joseph “Erap” Estrada and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo became the first two former presidents to be indicted for separate crimes in the Philippines.

Mr. Estrada was sentenced to life in prison after an anti-graft court found him guilty of plunder on September 11, 2007. He was pardoned by his successor, then President Arroyo.

Mrs. Arroyo, on the other hand, was arrested for electoral sabotage (remember “Hello Garci”?) at the St. Luke's Medical Center in Taguig on November 18, 2011.

Under hospital arrest, Mrs. Arroyo, now a Pampanga representative, was also charged for misuse of millions of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) funds and was released on bail on July 25, 2012.

“No one is above the law” was the line used by critics of both Mr. Estrada and Mrs. Arroyo’s that was also used by Mr. Trump’s critics.

 

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Thus Mr. Trump’s indictment, although the first for a former US president, was not really something new or earthshaking for most Filipinos who value and believe in the rule of law.

There were Filipinos who considered the arrest of both former Philippine presidents to be politically motivated.

Just like Mr. Trump’s loyal supporters, especially some GOP lawmakers, who blamed President Joe Biden and the Democratic Party for Mr. Trump’s legal predicament.

Mr. Trump has denounced the indictment and lashed at Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. He also denied any sexual relations with Daniels or Stephanie Gregory Clifford in real name, which was viewed by legal experts to be a “weak” defense.

Another former Filipino president, Rodrigo Duterte, also faces a possible indictment this time by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for the bloody drug war during his presidency.

Mr. Duterte, in a latest speech, again called the ICC “mga putang ina” or SOB, his trademark.

New Yorkers beamed with pride as former President Donald Trump was indicted in his hometown, reported the New York Daily News which quoted Lisa Fithian, 62, as saying, “This is like a holiday. We should be popping champagne. This is a historic day. It’s a long time coming. We’re grateful for the DA and the courage of the grand jury.”

“What I did, I did at the direction of, for the benefit of, and in cooperation with Donald J. Trump,” Michael Cohen, Mr. Trump’s former lawyer who testified against him, said. “And so, I ended being forced to plead guilty. I was charged, I was fined, and I was ultimately sentenced to several of these things that they’re looking at with Donald. What’s good for one has to be good for all.”

 

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LAST SUPPER. There were 69 percent increase in portion sizes at the Last Supper over the past 1,000 years, according to researchers who studied 52 paintings that depict the meal (Time).

LONGING FOR SWEET ITALIAN CUISINE? An Italian meal may contain as much monosodium glutamate (MSG) as an Oriental meal since both tomatoes and cheese are natural sources of this substance.

VITAMIN. Women may find B12 helpful--as part of a B complex--during and just prior to menstruation while elderly people frequently have difficulty absorbing vitamin B12 and require supplementation by injection.

If we are a vegetarian and have excluded eggs and dairy products from our diet, then we need B12 supplementation. If we keep regular "Happy Hours" and drink a lot, B12 can be a most effective revitalizer.

Cancer is more common among people who are obese than people who are at or below their ideal body weight.

Smoking, caffeine, refined sugar, and pollution can all raise our cholesterol level. Amino acids arginine and omithine can help us gain less--even as we eat more. 

Products marked as aren't necessarily low-calorie, and some products using artificial sweeteners contain more calories than if they had natural sugar.

THERE IS ALSO SOFTNESS IN HIM. 43 percent of all men have cried because of love-related issues. (Askmen).

(PG 13) It's been estimated that the practice of autoerotic asphyxiation (temporarily suffocating yourself while masturbating) takes the lives of 250 to 1,000 people each year.

(The author, who is now based in New York City, used to be the editor of two local dailies in Iloilo.—Ed)

A breakthrough for spouses of H-1B workers

“The H-1B visa is called the 'genius visa' for a reason.”

— Michio Kaku

 

By Alex P. Vidal

 

IF you are a Filipino H-1B visa holder in the technology sector and your spouse intends to work in the United States, this good news if for you—or both of you.

In what was considered as a major court victory for big technological companies, a Washington judge has dismissed a suit challenging the rights of highly skilled H-1B visa holders’ spouses to work in the US.

On March 28, US District Judge Tanya Chutkan issued a decision upholding the Obama-era rule under which the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has issued H-4 visas to the spouses of hundreds of thousands of H-1B workers in the US.

Seventy percent of whom reportedly hold science and engineering jobs in the tech sector, confirmed Bloomberg’s Bob Van Voris.

It was learned that Amazon.com Inc., Apple Inc., Google, Microsoft Corp. were among the companies who urged the judge to let the rule stand.

The tech companies have argued that the ability of H-1B holders’ spouses to also get jobs in the US has been a major attraction for highly skilled foreign workers, according to Bloomberg.

In her ruling, the Bloomberg reported, Chutkan rejected arguments by Save Jobs USA, a group representing Southern California Edison computer professionals who said they had been replaced by H-1B visa-holders. 

 

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Save Jobs had reportedly claimed Homeland Security wasn’t legally permitted to put the rule in place and sought to eliminate work authorizations for more than 90,000 new H-4 visa holders.

“Plaintiff’s primary contention is that Congress has never granted DHS authority to allow foreign nationals, like H-4 visa-holders, to work during their stay in the United States,” the judge wrote. 

“That contention runs headlong into the text of the (Immigration and Nationality Act), decades of executive-branch practice, and both explicit and implicit congressional ratification of that practice.”

A lawyer for Save Jobs said the group would likely appeal. “We now have complete chaos as the federal courts have seized control over the immigration system from Congress and handed that authority over to DHS,” said the lawyer, John Miano.

Tech companies were among a group, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, that filed a brief in the case arguing that eliminating H-4 visas “would not only siphon off U.S. gross domestic product, but gift that productivity—and the innovation that comes with it—to other nations.”

They said that 87 percent of families affected had made important life decisions, including whether to buy a house or whether to have a child, based on the ability of a skilled-worker’s spouse to be employed under H-4.

Chutkan had previously dismissed the suit, ruling that Save Jobs lacked standing to challenge the H-4 rule. But a federal appeals court reversed that ruling in 2019 and revived the case.

The case is Save Jobs USA v. U.S. Department of Homeland Security, 15-cv-00615, U.S. District Court, District of Columbia (Washington).

 

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Foods and nutrients that can lower our cholesterol naturally: Activated charcoal, barely, carrots, chromium, corn bran, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower), eggplant, evening primrose oil, fenugreek seed, fiber, garlic, ginger, lemon grass oil, soy beans, yogurt, red pepper, onions.

PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME (P.M.S.). For two to ten days before the onset of menstruation, millions of women are affected by a wide range of physical discomforts and mood disorders--from bloating, depression, and insomnia to severe pains, uncontrolled rages, crying spells, and even suicidal depression. This is known as P.M.S. (Vitamin Bible)

AN OLD MASTER’S SECRET INGREDIENT? Leonardo da Vinci, Sandro Botticelli and Rembrandt may have used egg yolk in their oil paintings, according to a new study.

APPLE’S BUY NOW PAY LATER SERVICE. Apple launches buy now, pay later service. A new option allows customers to pay for online purchases in installments, making Apple the latest company to embrace the buy now, pay later trend.

ACCENTURE slashes 19,000 jobs worldwide. The cuts come amid a gloomy economic picture for the company and after thousands of workers in the tech industry have been laid off in recent months.

(The author, who is now based in New York City, used to be the editor of two local dailies in Iloilo.—Ed)

Oops, control your emotions

“If you don't control your emotions, your emotions will control your acts, and that's not good.”

— Mariano Rivera

 

By Alex P. Vidal

 

IT’S normal to be emotional, but if we are doing our work or obligation, we must do our best to control our emotions, the negative, toxic, or irrational anger.

Especially if we are in public service; and especially if we hold a high position in government.

If we are angry, we tend not to be compassionate or empathetic. We take pleasure in the misfortune of others, a phenomenon known as schadenfreude or “malicious joy.” 

And we become quick to condemn and slow to praise.

This is our friendly reminder and advice to Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr., who recently called as “demonyo” (devil) the unnamed (but is a common knowledge) mastermind in the March 4 massacre in Pamplona, Negros Oriental that killed nine people, including Governor Roel Degamo.

“Gusto ninyong malaman kung sino ang mastermind? Ang mastermind ay si demonyo. Isa siyang demonyo. (Do you want to know who is the mastermind? Is the devil. The mastermind is a devil.),” exploded 59-year-old Abalos.

Abalos was obviously mad. He couldn’t hide what’s inside him. His actuations were uncalled for as a cabinet official, who is expected to maintain a decorum and refinement in dealing with complicated and sensitive matters in public.

Self-awareness is important and should come into play if Abalos wants to bring out the best in himself as authority and head of the agency tasked to run after the lawbreakers and hooligans.

 

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When they implement the law and seek justice for victims of violence and heinous crimes, the likes of Abalos are expected show utmost restraint and objectivity.

Their positions demand a high level of professionalism and propriety.

Calling a suspected criminal demonyo is the highest form of denunciation. Demonyo is the symbol of the darkness, an extreme but unworthy pillory toward any member of the human race. 

“The Lord tests the righteous, but his soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence.” (Psalm 11:5).  

In his anger and name-calling, Abalos terminates the benefit of the doubt even if the mastermind is still presumed innocent until proven guilty by the trial court.

In the 1977 movie “The Incredible Hulk,” actor Lou Ferrigno turns into a monster everytime he gets mad. 

He literally naga gua sa panit (comes out of skin). It’s because he can’t control his emotions and settles his conflict with the bad characters with brute force as a muscular behemoth, the alter ego of meek scientist David Banner.

When we don’t and can’t control our emotions, we become the Incredible Hulks.

 

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Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that is a neurotransmitter, a chemical that transmits its signals between the nerve cells and the brain. It reduces hunger, increase sexual interest, improve memory and mental alertness, and alleviate depression. (Vitamin Bible)

COSTLY WAR. It will cost $411 billion to rebuild from the war in Ukraine, the World Bank announced in an updated assessment. The majority of damage is concentrated in frontline eastern regions, including Donetsk, Kharkiv and Luhansk. 

Still, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expressing optimism that a victory could come by the end of the year—but only if Ukraine receives increased support from European and Western allies.

“It is obvious that the terrorist state cannot be stopped by anything other than one thing—our victory.” -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in his nightly address Wednesday after paying a surprise visit to troops on the front lines in the eastern Donetsk region. A Russian minister said the risk of a nuclear conflict is now at its highest level in decades, according to state media.

(The author, who is now based in New York City, used to be the editor of two local dailies in Iloilo.—Ed)

His brother’s keeper

“If thy brother wrongs thee, remember not so much his wrongdoing, but more than ever that he is thy brother.”

—Epictetus

 

By Alex P. Vidal

 

WE’RE not surprised why reticent former Negros Oriental governor Pryde Henry Teves is also now being linked to the assassination of Governor Roel Degamo on March 4, 2023 and the other murders in the province—past and most recently.

The answer is simple: It’s because Pryde Henry is his brother’s keeper.

From the book of Genesis, the phrase “my brother’s keeper” is a reference to the Biblical story of Cain and Abel. 

It is generally understood to mean being responsible for the welfare of a brother or other sibling or, by extension, for other human beings in general.

The brother here, suspended 3^rd District Rep. Arnulfo “Arnie” Teves, remained in hiding and may soon be tagged as fugitive if multiple murder raps would be formally filed against him.

The Department of Justice (DoJ) has considered the congressman brother as “one of the possible masterminds” in the massacre on March 4 that killed Degamo and eight others inside the governor’s compound in Pamplona.

 

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By the way, in his “live” vlog, I personally heard Pryde Henry quip, “We can’t choose our relatives” two days after the Pamplona massacre happened. 

He seemed piqued and embarrassed that his family was being linked in the ghastly crime and suspected that their detractors may be eyeing his brother as the possible brains. 

He appeared frightened and appalled that the long arms of the law would soon come to badger them even if they seemed untouchable and feared in Negros Oriental like the Corleone family.

Was he referring to his talkative and conceited brother Arnie? Yes, no one can choose a relative, a brother or sister, but we can always exercise our moral duty and responsibility to remind or teach them to behave or face the consequences of their misdeeds.

Now that his own world also has apparently caved in following the raid in his property where several high-powered firearms and P19 million cash were recovered, Pryde Henry must be asking, “Am I my brother’s keeper?”

 

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Cain attempted to hide his misdeed by claiming no responsibility for his brother, Abel.

Followers of Biblical teachings often interpret this as a reminder that they are, indeed, responsible for the welfare of other people; in this case, Pryde Henry caring for Arnie vice versa.

Someone who is his brother’s keeper looks out for and cares for others, even if they are not actually related to him or her. 

For example, a person who tries to be a “brother’s keeper” might donate his or her time or resources to help others and will place the needs of others before his or her own.

Arnie may still be hiding reportedly in Cambodia as of this writing, but definitely Pryde Henry is responsible, in many aspects, why authorities can’t locate his brother, who is a known troublemaker than a lawmaker.

If Pryde Henry is not a “konsintidor” brother, he would have asked and convinced Arnie to come back from overstaying abroad and to show up to authorities and face the charges against him like a man.

But because he is his “brother’s keeper”, he couldn’t.

After all, blood is thicker than water.

 

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The price of gold was first standardized in late 1717 by Sir Isaac Newton, then England's Master of the Mint. In coins and later as backing for paper money, it fluctuated with world crises and market forces. After 1971, when the dominant U.S. dollar was no longer tied to gold, the metal became a freely traded, often volatile, commodity. (National Geographic)

Jewelry dominates gold consumption. The metal is also critical in electronics as an efficient, noncorroding conductor; gold-backed investment funds are growing. (National Geographic)

Abraham Lincoln was the first president to have a beard. While he was in office U.S. mascot Uncle Sam received a beard.

(The author, who is now based in New York City, used to be the editor of two local dailies in Iloilo.—Ed)

A voice in the wilderness

 

“There is nothing impossible to him who will try.”

—Alexander the Great

 

By Alex P. Vidal

 

IT is always better to try and fail than fail to try and forever suffer the thought of what might have been.

Although he knew that the chances were slim, we admire Iloilo City Mayor Geronimo “Jerry” Treñas for his gallant effort to request the national government to push for the upgrading and development of the slumbering Iloilo International Airport in Cabatuan, Iloilo—under the Marcos administration.

Treñas learned that the Iloilo airport, opened officially by then President Gloria Arroyo on June 13, 2007, had been excluded from the list of priority or key projects under the new administration.

He nevertheless continued to be oozing with confidence thinking he has now pledged support for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. after the May 9, 2022 presidential election. 

Treñas had openly campaigned and declared support for former Vice President Leni Robredo, who won in Western Visayas, including in Iloilo City, but lost in the final tally.

Under any circumstances, a request for any project from the Palace by any local chief executive who backed another candidate in the previous polls is always considered to be a “voice in the wilderness.”

In the Philippines, the oft-repeated political lingo has always been “pa-weather weather lang.” After all, nobody loves a loser.

But to show his sincerity and tacit reconciliatory gesture, the city mayor invited as special guest First Lady Marie Louise “Liza Araneta-Marcos, his former schoolmate, during the 2023 Dinagyang Festival in January.  

As the saying goes, in every rule there is an exemption. We hope Treñas, a chief ally of former Senator Franklin Drilon, will be an exemption in this political anagram.

 

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He recently told the media: “We need to continue pushing for the development of our international airport since it is now overcrowded. If it is expanded, we can accommodate more flights and more visitors.”

Treñas did succeed in reaching to the ears of authorities concerned but his efforts, so far, was good only for a “referral” from one national agency to another.

He confirmed to reporters that his proposal had been forwarded or referred by National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Undersecretary for Investment Programming Group Joseph Capuno to Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary for Planning and Project Development Timothy John Batan.

According to local media reports quoting Capuno, airports weren’t included in the list of DOTr’s priority infrastructure projects “either in the Public Investment Program (PIP) 2023-2028 and the Three Year-Rolling Infrastructure Program (TRIP) 2024-2026.”

Capuno’s letter added: “As the primary entity in charge of planning and programming, coordinating, and implementing, among others, the promotion, development, and regulation of safe, efficient, and reliable transportation services and systems in the country, including air transport facilities, we deem that the subject request is under DOTr’s purview.”

Classified by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) as an international facility, the airport was inaugurated during the term of Governor Neil Tupas and was attended by Japanese ambassador Ryuchiro Yamazaki and then Transportation and Communications Secretary Leandro Mendoza, who assisted Mrs. Arroyo in leading the inaugural rites. 

The facility itself was formally commissioned at five o’clock in the morning on June 14, coinciding with the simultaneous decommissioning of the old airport in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

 

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Fear of death is the most common fear many of us has experienced. But because of our "maturity", some of us are not afraid to drink alcoholic beverages like there is no tomorrow; we’re not afraid to smoke 50 packs of cigarette everyday; and we don’t give a damn if we feast on fatty foods, pigs, sweets, preservatives, among other risky foods and vices. FORMULA IN LIFE: Prayers + hard work or "I'll-do-it" attitude + positive thinking = SUCCESS!

REMINDER. What has been done cannot be undone but can only be remedied. Let's hope for the best when tomorrow comes! Let's adopt the power of positive thinking and work hard to achieve what we want in life! God will help only those who help themselves first.

(The author, who is now based in New York City, used to be the editor of two local dailies in Iloilo.—Ed)

 

 

 

Threats against Iloilo politicians

“As long as anger, paranoia and misinformation drive our political debate, there are unhinged souls among us who will feel justified in turning to violent remedies for imagined threats.”

— David Horsey

 

By Alex P. Vidal

 

ACCORDING to the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) as reported in the Iloilo media, the following five Iloilo public officials “received threats to their lives”: Iloilo 4th District Representative Ferjenel "Ferj" Biron, Dumangas Mayor Braeden John "BJ" Biron, Barotac Nuveo Mayor Bryant Paul "BP" Biron, Dumangas Vice Mayor Ronaldo "Onal" Golez, and Dueñas Mayor Robert Martin Pama.

The report came after PNP chief, General Rodolfo Azurin Jr. had ordered all Philippine National Police offices in the country to conduct “threat assessments” on all elected and appointed public officials in the Philippines following the massacre in Pamplona, Negros Oriental on March 4 that killed nine people, including Governor Roel Degamo.

There were no immediate complete details about the threats on the five politicians.

Were the threats as alarming as the threats received by Degamo and other Negros Oriental politicians weeks and months before the massacre?

Were the threats politically motivated or business-related?

Were they based on police blotter reports or Intelligence?

Were the CPP/NPA, e-sabong operators, drug syndicates involved in the threats?

Because of the alleged threats, is there a need for the PNP or the Philippine Army, as a precautionary measure, to also deploy elite forces in Iloilo to neutralize the troublemakers or raid houses for possible loose high-powered firearms?

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Did the PNP monitor the presence of armed goons or private army that are capable of sowing terror against Iloilo politicians?    

In the case of Degamo, the supposed threats were politically motivated because they came from one dreaded political family, as claimed by the widow of the slain governor, Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo.

If the threats against the Iloilo politicians were politically motivated, who the hell are interested to harm them? 

These are some of the nagging questions that the IPPO must clarify.

On the lighter side, it’s possible that some of these threats against the Iloilo politicians weren’t really serious and could only be like, “I will run against you in the next election”; “I will file a case against you in the Ombudsman”; “I will withdraw my support”; “I will resign from your political party,” etcetera.

Seriously, any threat against any politician or ordinary citizen shouldn’t be taken lightly. The civilian populace can only rely on the police authorities for protection.

Iloilo was reportedly peaceful during the last elections with no recorded serious political violence.

   

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FILTER IT AWAY. The human body requires at least one gallon of water a day. If we are considering stocking up on emergency supplies, let's bear in mind that plastic bottles are thought to leach chemicals into the water if left for a length of time. Let's save space and the environment by stocking up on water filters instead.

WELCOME THE WIND. Many products can cause air pollution to build up in our home, including modern cleaners, which contain strong chemicals. Let's make sure to ventilate our home well, ensuring a through-flow of air to help reduce pollution levels and encourage good ventilation.

ATOMS CANNOT BE SEEN. To show that the world was made of particles a million times smaller than objects visible to the naked eye was so difficult that their existence was not established beyond reasonable doubt until the end of the nineteenth century.

EMPTY CUP. Each day is full of reasons to praise God, even when life seems empty of comfort or joy. It's when our cups are empty that God fills them up. My cup was empty yesterday but this morning, it was filled up.

 

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ILOILO YIELDS TO LAGUNA. According to a report by US Master and chess journalist Marlon Bernardino, Iloilo chessers ran out of luck in the Professional Chess Association of the Philippines (PCAP) online chess tournament third season as they lost to Laguna.

“Grandmaster Rogelio "Banjo" Barcenilla Jr. and International Master Daniel Quizon powered the Laguna Dasmariñas to a 13-8 victory over Iloilo Kisela Knights of the 3rd season, first conference of Professional Chess Association of the Philippines online chess tournament virtually held at Chess.com platform Wednesday night, March 22, 2023,” reported Bernadrino.

Barcenilla, many-time Battle of the GMs champion, defeated Mark Jossel Mariano in 57 moves of Petroff defense on Board 1 while Quizon, the reigning AQ Prime ASEAN champion, checkmated Lloyd Lanciola in 39 moves of Neo Gruendfeld defense on Board 2.

"It was a topsy turvy game but he blundered on his 42nd move with Qe8 and on the 46th move I already have twin passers on the center. It is from there that I knew the game is in the bag," said Barcenilla, a former two-time Asian Junior Champion.

The win helped Laguna Dasmariñas improve their win-loss record to 18-1 in the Northern division. It is worth mentioning that they have the same output as San Juan Predators.

"Iloilo is a strong team. We were just lucky for beating them tonight. Certainly, it was a close match indeed," said Arena Grandmaster Dr. Fred Paez, one of the owners of the Laguna Dasmariñas team franchise.

Also delivering for the Laguna Dasmariñas backed up by Rep. Elpidio "Pidi" Barzaga Jr. are Woman Fide Master Shania Mae Mendoza, International Master Angelo Young and Arena Grandmaster Kimuel Aaron Lorenzo.

Mendoza toppled Fiona Geeweneth Guirhem on  Board 3, Young trounced National Master Cesar Mariano on Board 4 and Lorenzo subdued National Master Rolly Parondo Jr. on Board 7.

Horizon Villanueva and National Master Fritz Bryan Porras carried the good fight for Iloilo woodpushers in the rapid encounter.

Villanueva nipped International Master Michael Concio Jr. on Board 5 while Porras crushed Fide Master Dino Ballecer on Board 6.

Here are some feats that Laguna has accomplished, bested Iloilo, 10-4, in their rapid earlier. Notwithstanding their earlier setback with the same team (Iloilo), 4-3, on the blitz portion of their match. Lastly, they subdued Davao Eagles with a close score of 11-10.

(The author, who is now based in New York City, used to be the editor of two local dailies in Iloilo.—Ed)

Back to Manhattan Criminal Court

 

“When fake news is repeated, it becomes difficult for the public to discern what's real.”

— Jimmy Gomez

 

By Alex P. Vidal

 

WE’LL be back outside the Manhattan Criminal Court in the Lower Manhattan on March 27, the day the grand jury was reported to be meeting anew for possible criminal indictment of former President Donald Trump for the $130,000 hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

I want to interview controversial characters and witness first-hand how New York supporters of the former president will react and handle the tense situation just in case the grand jury decides to indict the flamboyant real estate developer from Mar-a-Lago in Florida.

My presence will also enable me to dissect the pros and cons of the case and present the issue to my readers in a more transparent, detailed and objective manner sans the influence from both the conservative and liberal American media.

Fake news, extremism, conspiracy theories, fanaticism, are some of the negative factors that interrupt our search for truth and justice.

Fake news will have no room once we begin to chronicle the historic event, where a former US president is facing the possibility of being handcuffed, the first in American history.

 

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Mr. Trump’s reported “imminent” arrest has been delayed for a week now, although Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg never confirmed Mr. Trump’s possible arrest was on March 21, contrary to the claim of Mr. Trump himself.

The hush money payment to Daniels was reportedly made by Michael, Cohen, Mr. Trump’s then lawyer and fixer, and discovered only in 2018. Cohen, another interesting character that I want to interview, went to jail, in part over the payment, and turned on his former boss. 

Bragg’s investigation of what members of his own team came to call a “zombie case” has never run smoothly as Republicans in congress have accused Bragg of politicking while neglecting crime in New York City.

The same sentiments were echoed by Mr. Trump’s supporters who were outnumbered by journalists in a small rally outside Bragg’s office on March 20, the event that I also attended.

 

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WANTED PINOYS WITH EXCEPTIONAL TALENT. According to the Filipinos of New York, the O-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa category for individuals who possess extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or who have demonstrated extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry.

To be eligible for an O-1 visa, the applicant must have a job offer from a US employer or agent and must be able to demonstrate that they have extraordinary ability or achievement in their field of endeavor.

Filipino citizens who meet the criteria for an O-1 visa may apply for the visa. Some examples of extraordinary ability or achievement that may qualify a Filipino citizen for an O-1 visa include:

A renowned Filipino scientist who has made significant contributions to their field of study, and has been recognized internationally for their work.

A Filipino artist or musician who has won numerous awards and accolades for their talent, and has achieved international recognition for their work.

A Filipino athlete who has competed at the highest levels of their sport, and has been recognized as one of the best in their field.

A Filipino business executive who has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and has achieved significant success in their industry, such as growing a successful startup or leading a major corporation.

A Filipino actor or director who has achieved critical acclaim and international recognition for their work in the motion picture or television industry, such as winning major awards or working on high-profile projects.

A Filipino academic who has made significant contributions to their field of study, such as publishing groundbreaking research or developing innovative theories.

A Filipino designer who has created highly acclaimed works of art or fashion, and has been recognized internationally for their creativity and originality.

A Filipino chef who has won major culinary awards and has achieved international recognition for their culinary expertise and innovation.

A Filipino journalist who has produced groundbreaking investigative reporting or has been recognized for exceptional reporting skills.

In addition to demonstrating extraordinary ability or achievement in their field, O-1 visa applicants must also have a job offer from a US employer or agent and must meet other eligibility requirements for the visa category. It is important to note that the O-1 visa application process can be complex and requires careful preparation and documentation, so it is advisable to work with an experienced immigration attorney when applying for the visa.

 

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How to Apply for O-1 Visa? The applicant must submit a petition to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on Form I-129, along with supporting documentation that demonstrates their extraordinary ability or achievement. The supporting documentation may include:

Documentation of the applicant's awards, prizes, or other recognition in their field, such as certificates, letters of commendation, or news articles.

Published materials about the applicant's work in their field, such as articles, reviews, or interviews.

Evidence of the applicant's membership in professional associations or organizations related to their field.

Letters of recommendation from experts in the applicant's field, attest to their extraordinary ability or achievement.

Evidence of the applicant's participation as a judge of the work of others in their field, such as serving on a panel of experts or as a juror for a competition.

The O-1 visa is typically issued for an initial period of up to three years, with the possibility of extensions for up to one year at a time. Spouses and children of O-1 visa holders may be eligible for O-3 visas, which allow them to accompany the O-1 visa holder to the US but do not allow them to work in the US.

After the USCIS approves the O-1 petition, the applicant can apply for an O-1 visa at a US consulate or embassy in their home country. The visa application process typically includes an interview with a consular officer, where the applicant must provide additional documentation and answer questions about their qualifications and intentions in the US.

(The author, who is now based in New York City, used to be the editor of two local dailies in Iloilo.—Ed)

Marcos’ Dovie Beams and Trump’s Stormy Daniels

 “Nope, no sex scandals yet. But I am open to offers!”

— John Cusack

 

By Alex P. Vidal

 

THE only difference was Dovie Beams, a Hollywood actress, reportedly became then President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.’s mistress for two years (1968-1970).

Stormy Daniels, on the other hand, is a porn star who claimed she had sex for one night at Lake Tahoe with then businessman and future US President Donald Trump in 2006, while wife Melania Trump had just given birth.

Marcos’ affair with Beams was uncovered after the radio station of the University of the Philippines (UP) publicly played the recording of their sexual encounter and consisted of the following segments:

-Breathing and moaning sounds of Marcos;

-Act of physically moving while in the bed as stated by Marcos;

-Verbally declaring “I will kiss you” as Beams giggled in return;

-A plea to Beams (interpreted to be allegedly for performing oral sex);

-Marcos singing the Ilocano folk song “Pamulinawen” to Beams as a gesture of serenade.

The tape came from Beams herself who recorded everything while she and Marcos were having sex. 

Then First Lady Imelda Marcos was indignant and reportedly started to “befriend” (I didn’t say she also had sex with) then Hollywood star George Hamilton. I will stop here before someone will accuse us of being a Marites. The rest is history.

 

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The words “hush money” were never mentioned in Marcos’ affair with Beams since Marcos probably did not pay Beams for her sexual services. 

It was the height of the conjugal dictatorship and the opposition couldn’t use the scandal to outmaneuver Marcos, who had the entire nation under his grip when he declared Martial Law on September 23, 1972.

Trump, now back as private citizen after serving as president for four years (2016-2020), is facing indictment from the Manhattan District Attorney for allegedly paying hush money to Daniels before the 2016 presidential election. He may be arrested anytime as of this writing.

Trump, who lied (and continues to lie) about his 2020 election defeat to President Joe Biden, has declared his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election, thus his supporters suspect the Stormy Daniels scandal is being used by the White House to undermine his credibility as a candidate.

New York City District Attorney Alvin Bragg had set up a grand jury to investigate whether there was enough evidence to pursue a prosecution against the former president over the money paid to Daniels.  

He is the person who will decide whether or not there will be an indictment, if one were issued. 

A grand jury is held behind closed doors, and set up by a prosecutor to determine whether there is enough evidence to pursue charges in a case.

If charges are issued, it would be the first criminal case ever brought against a former US president. 

On his social media network, Truth Social, Mr Trump called the investigation a political witch-hunt by a "corrupt, depraved, and weaponized justice system".

 

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US Master and chess journalist Marlon Bernardino has confirmed that New York-based Filipino engineer Donato “Gerry” Gamaro stirred the hornet’s nest in the US chess anew when Gamaro finished tie for second to fourth places in the Class C section of the 31st annual Eastern Class Chess Championships on March 17-19, 2023 at the Sheraton Hartford Hotel, Bradley Airport, Windsor Locks, Connecticut.

A member of the Filipino American Association of Engineers (FAAE) where he served as vice president in 2019, Gamaro halved the point with Sebastian Lopez in the last round to finish with 4.0 points on three wins and two draws, the same output of third Jaryd Malbin and fourth Daniel Brown.

"I was unable to convert clearly winning positions," said Gamaro, playing under the guidance of personal coach National Master/ Engineer Mario Lawsin Rebano.

"It is possible to tie for first place,"he added.

Meanwhile, Bernardino revealed that Perla Uma won the prestigious Continental Chess Association tournament after tallying 4.5 points.

It shall be recalled that Gamaro, who hails from Calauan, Laguna won the Under-1600 category of the 14th annual Foxwoods Open International Chess Championship last April 17, 2022, at Foxwoods Resort Casino & Hotel in Connecticut.

 

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GENEALOGY OF MORALS. Walter Kaufman, the translator of Friedrich Nietzsche’s two masterpieces--On The Genealogy of Morals and Ecce Homo--believes of all of Nietzsche’s books, the Genealogy of Morals comes closest, at least in form, to Anglo-American philosophy: it consists of three inquiries, each self-contained and yet related to the other two.

Kaufman says even those who suppose, erroneously, that Beyond Good and Evil is a book for browsing, a collection of aphorism that may be reading any order whatever, generally recognize that the Genealogy comprises three essays.

Moreover, all three essays deal with morality, a subject close to the heart of British and American philosophy; and Nietzsche’s manner is such more sober and single-minded than usual, explains Kaufman.

The book is Nietzsche’s major work on ethics and was written in 1887. 

It shows him using philosophy, psychology, and classical philology in an effort to give new directions to an ancient discipline.

The work consists of three essays. The first contrasts master morality and slave morality and indicates how the term “good” has widely different meanings in each.

The second inquiry deals with guilt and the bad conscience; the third with ascetic ideals--not only in religion but also in the academy.

Ecco Homo, written in 1898 and first published posthumously in 1908, is Nietzsche’s review of his life and works.

It contains separate chapters on all the books he himself published. 

His interpretations are as fascinating as they are invaluable. 

Nothing Nietzsche wrote is more stunning stylistically or as a human document.

 

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PREVENT THE SPREAD OF FLU by doing the following: 1. Staying away from people who are sick--and staying home when we are sick; 2. Covering our mouth and nose when we cough or sneeze; 3. Washing our hands frequently; 4. Don't touch our eyes, nose, or mouth.

(The author, who is now based in New York City, used to be the editor of two local dailies in Iloilo.—Ed)