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Two US carrier groups conduct exercises in South China Sea

Two US carrier groups conducted joint exercises in the South China Sea on Tuesday, days after a US warship sailed near Chinese-controlled islands in the disputed waters that have emerged as another flashpoint in strained Sino-US relations.

The Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group and the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group “conducted a multitude of exercises aimed at increasing interoperability between assets as well as command and control capabilities,” the US Navy said, marking the first dual carrier operations in the busy waterway since July 2020.

The exercise comes days after China condemned the sailing of the destroyer, the USS John S. McCain, near the Chinese-controlled Paracel Islands in what the United States calls a freedom of navigation operation — the first such mission by the US navy since President Joe Biden took office.

The United States has contested China’s extensive territorial claims in the region, accusing it of militarizing the South China Sea and trying to intimidate neighbors such as Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam, who have claims that overlap with China’s in the resource-rich area.

“We are committed to ensuring the lawful use of the sea that all nations enjoy under international law,” Rear Admiral Jim Kirk, commander of the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group, said in a statement.

China has been infuriated by repeated US sailings near the islands it occupies and controls in the South China Sea. China says it has irrefutable sovereignty and has accused the United States of deliberately stoking tension. — Reuters

The tip of the spear: The Chinese Coast Guard in the South China Sea

On Jan. 29, 2021, the Philippines filed a strongly worded diplomatic protest against China’s passage of a law authorizing the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) to use force against foreign vessels in the contested waters of the South China Sea. The filing of this diplomatic protest was a reversal of Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr.’s earlier statement that the passage of the National People’s Congress of China’s CCG’s law was none of the Philippines’ business. Secretary Locsin explained that: “While enacting law is a sovereign prerogative, this one — given the area involved or for that matter the open South China Sea — is a verbal threat of war to any country that defies the law; which, if unchallenged, is submission to it.”

The DFA’s protest unleashed a chorus from the Philippine Senate denouncing the Chinese CCG law. Opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros rightly pointed out that “while China has the right to pass any laws it wants; these laws cannot be used in ways that violate the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and international law.” Administration Senator Francis Tolentino joined the chorus denouncing the CCG law when he called it “scary and worrisome,” as he urged the China-friendly Duterte Administration to file a joint diplomatic protest with other South China Sea claimant states who would be adversely affected by the legislation.

Expectedly, the Chinese Embassy in Manila lashed out against the Philippines for what it called false accusations about the CCG Law. It accused some forces in the country for spreading fake news such as the CCG has been harassing Filipino fishermen, and the sensationalized account of the illegal intrusion of a Chinese scientific ship in Philippine waters. The embassy also claimed that the law has been misinterpreted and that it was a normal domestic legislative activity.

THE TIP OF THE SPEAR

The Chinese Embassy reasoned out that that the passage of the CCG law is a normal domestic legislative activity and that such a law is not unique to China, and it is a sovereign right by all states. The Chinese Embassy’s statement, however, is silent on the CCG’s current operations in the South and East China Seas.

China has been legitimizing its expansive maritime claims in East Asia through the use of domestic law, obstruction of other littoral states from exploiting their own resources in their exclusive economic zones, facilitating the operations of Chinese economic actors in exploiting marine resources, and the deployment of ships for long-range and long-term patrols in South China Sea. CCG vessels spent 70% of their operational time at sea patrolling disputed land features such as Scarborough, Second Thomas, and Luconia Shoals. These patrols are aimed at flaunting China’s naval clout over the Philippines and Malaysia and locking its claims to about 85% of the South China Sea.

The CCG is unlike most coast guards since it patrols Chinese-claimed territory while conducting peacetime operations in disputed maritime areas, thus, blurring the line separating the platforms and missions traditionally associated with law enforcement, and those associated with national defense. It has conducted ramming and harassment against civilian vessels of other states — and even firing shots — resulting in low-level violence but without significant escalation.

SHARPENING THE TIP

The Chinese Embassy’s statement is accurate when it mentioned that there is no change in China’s maritime policy, which is aimed at combining both off-shore and open sea defenses. The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) is tasked to safeguard China’s maritime rights and interests such as the security of the sea lines of communication essential for the import and export of commodities, and the exploitation of seabed oil and natural gas resources in the South and East China Seas. This requires the PLAN to be capable of addressing naval threats to China’s vital interests in seas areas outside its offshore waters.

China’s maritime civilian law enforcement agencies served as the first-response frontline units for maritime sovereignty disputes and contingencies. The Chinese government realized that using non-military/civilian vessels is more acceptable to international public opinion and avoids escalation of maritime disputes. In March 2013, the National People’s Congress (NPC) passed a legislation integrating four of five of China’s maritime law enforcement agencies into the new CCG. The PLAN has accepted the strategic logic of giving the CCG the lead role in maritime sovereignty disputes as it provided the latter with decommissioned ships, ammunition, and professional training and education. On Jan. 23, 2021, the NPC passed the law that allows the CCG to use all necessary means to stop or prevent threats from foreign vessels operating in waters claimed by China. This legislation, in turn, has sharpened the tip of the spear of China’s maritime expansion in the South and East China Seas.

DR. RENATO DE CASTRO is a Trustee and Convenor of the National Security and East Asian Affairs Program of the Stratbase ADR Institute.

The employee’s right to receive or refuse a vaccine

In a few weeks from now, Metro Manila and parts of the country will mark their first anniversary of being placed under some form of community quarantine. At least until the end of February, Metro Manila and seven other major cities or regions will remain under the General Community Quarantine regime, while other parts of the country will be under the more lenient Modified General Community Quarantine.

We can still vividly recall the deserted streets of the metropolis when the strictest Enhanced Community Quarantine was first imposed last year. Initially, only business establishments belonging to the essential industries were allowed to operate. Even then, not all employees were allowed to report for work due to safety reasons, not to mention the hardships which arose from the suspension of public transportation. To say that the country came to a halt during this period is a clear understatement.

Eventually, businesses and workers alike accepted the grim reality that everyone had to sacrifice and adjust until such time that the current health crisis is controlled or ended.

Thanks to the wonders of modern science, the development of vaccines against COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) came at breakneck speed. Distribution of vaccines already started late last year, and the rollout has now reached more countries.

Hopefully, these vaccines will soon find their way to other parts of the world, including the Philippines. For this reason, businesses have become more optimistic in recent weeks, and everyone is eager to rebound from this health and economic nightmare. At this early on, though, it is interesting to note that one important question is already being raised by both employers and employees alike. Can employees refuse to receive the COVID-19 vaccine?

On one hand, while employees are eager to return to their normal work routine, it cannot be overlooked that some have their own reason/s for refusing to receive the jab. Clearly, this is a matter of personal choice, and our Constitution and laws guarantee an individual’s right to freedom especially on matters relating to one’s health. The State has the mandate to regulate the relations between workers and employers in affording full protection to labor. Also, there is no law or government issuance as of now which mandates the COVID-19 vaccination of employees in the workplace. The employer is merely required to provide for employee testing when needed and to maintain a safe work environment.

On the other hand, employers have the management prerogative to impose any rules and regulations for the conduct of business operations, which includes ensuring a safe and healthy workplace and the integrity of products that they will offer to the public. Towards this end, the Labor Code grants employers the right to dismiss employees who willfully disobey lawful and reasonable orders relating to the performance of their work. The Department of Trade and Industry and Department of Labor and Employment Interim Guidelines on Workplace Prevention and Control on COVID-19 also mandates employees to comply with all workplace measures for the prevention of COVID-19, albeit this seems to contemplate only frequent handwashing, wearing of masks, and physical distancing. From a business perspective, establishments which can disclose that all their employees have been vaccinated against COVID-19 will surely be at an advantage in terms of offering their products and services, not to mention being saved from the attendant expenses and difficulties arising from cases of employee illnesses.

At present, there is valid reason to argue that an employer cannot require current employees to be vaccinated unless a law or government regulation is passed to require COVID-19 vaccination among employees. Consequently, an employer cannot penalize, much less dismiss, employees who opt not to receive the vaccine. The law is clear that employees can only be dismissed if any of the just or authorized causes provided by the Labor Code are present. And arguably, even the just cause pertaining to “willful disobedience of the lawful orders of the employer” mentioned above may not be applicable in this case. An exception may be argued only if the requirement for vaccination directly relates to the performance of the employee’s work and the functions of the employee place him at a conceivable risk of transmitting or contracting the disease.

For example, the Department of Labor and Employment had issued Department Advisory No. 05-10 which requires Hepatitis B vaccinations for those occupations with a conceivable risk of transmission in the workplace, such as healthcare workers.

At this still precarious time for everyone, the delicate balance between management and labor again comes to the fore. With the welcome development of vaccines being rolled out and administered to Filipinos also comes the apparent need for the State to balance its mandate of promoting the right to health of the people, and concomitantly protecting the national economy, versus the fundamental personal freedom of individuals. n This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not offered and does not constitute legal advice or legal opinion.

CLARENCE DARROW C. VALDECANTOS is a Partner and the Head of the Labor and Employment Department (LED) of the Angara Abello Concepcion Regala & Cruz Law Offices or ACCRALAW. (632) 8830-8000 ccvaldecantos@accralaw

The Divine Plan

“I prefer to be a dreamer among the humblest, with visions to be realized, than lord among those without dreams and desires.” — Khalil Gibran, poet and philosopher

We have entered a new year of beginnings. It is somehow a continuation of the past year but there is a difference. We are more aware that what is gone will not return. Our loved ones have moved to another spiritual dimension. We can only keep the memories alive. The life that we once knew is forever changed.

The liminality and virtual threshold are risky and full of uncertainty. After 11 months, we learn that surviving the crisis really depends on our own attitude and ability to accept, adjust, and follow certain strict rules and protocols.

Do we hold our breath and wait for a divine sign? Do we take a leap of faith? Do we jump into the void? Will this lingering pandemic claim more of our loved ones? There has been much collective suffering and grief. Sadness prevails.

We are all struggling to survive the multiple disasters on different levels. Will this chaotic whirlpool ever slow down? It seems that there is not enough time in this lifetime to do all the things one wants or needs to do. A cynic said, “It was never the right time.” When is the right time? Does fate or kismet determine all events? Are we not masters of our own fate? Only to a certain extent. It becomes clear.

Procrastination is passivity. It postpones and it justifies delays. In many ways, one postpones living life.

“There will be lots of time.” Or so we used to think. This idea has been shattered by successive devastating personal losses in some families within months. The optimist sees the hourglass as half full with sand seeping through ever so slowly. The pessimist sees the glass as half empty with sand rapidly trickling down.

When one is hopeful, one waits for the rainbow, the promise. The optimist looks for the silver lining, the radiance of the sun after a downpour. Where have all the years gone?

So many events have happened in a spectrum from white (the presence of all colors) to black (the absence of color).

It has been one long, dizzy roller coaster of sudden sharp curves, exhilarating climbs and thrilling dips and swirling colors.

Mostly, there were long, low plunges into dark gray and nuances of black. And yet, there were some moments when streaks of blue and silver lit up the dark ridges and crazy curves.

There is beauty even in darkness. The specks of light illumine even the blackest night.

There have been beautiful dawns and inspiring sunrises, spectacular sunsets with glowing rays of gold, copper and bronze. The moonrise, luminous against the velvet sky was a lantern guiding the way. The alignment of two planets that seemingly merged and appeared as a brilliant star — to guide one’s journey.

In distant places of the temperate zone, heavy fog would dissipate into fine mist that was so cool and refreshing. Dewdrops hung like crystals on the leaves of trees. A mountain lake would shine like a polished silver mirror reflecting the moods of the heavens.

Fragrant magnolia flowers would bloom overnight on the trees in gardens and street corners. Little wild flowers would sprout amidst the pines and evergreens in the mountains and fields. Even in winter, tiny buds would defy the frost and break through. Lavender and poppies, sunflowers, tulips marked the passing seasons.

Nature mesmerizes and invigorates the wandering pilgrim, the lonely nomad or the hermit in a shelter. Woven together, the threads of life have become a unique tapestry of textures, colors, flavors and scents. Viewed from a distance, with the passage of time, one can discern a faint white light that emanates from above. There have been a few miracles when the hopeless have started to show glimmers of grace and healing. These signs have made the months and years of prayers and sacrifices worth it. We stand at the brink of the future — on a dizzying precipice. The chasm below is dark and unfathomable. Above, the blue sky has drifting clouds. The sun is peeking tentatively. The moon is waning.

One looks back to grasp a new reality.

The simple and basic things really matter.

Love life, one day at a time.

How does one survive these painful, challenging times?

By flowing with the tide. By allowing nature to take its course.

By accepting that things always happen for a reason. We may not understand what is happening. We should learn trust, acceptance and have hope.

By letting go.

By facing and resolving difficult issues.

By forgiveness.

Healing follows. The mystery of the Divine plan unfolds.

One draws courage from deep within the soul — to stride into the future.

MARIA VICTORIA RUFINO is an artist, writer and businesswoman. She is president and executive producer of Maverick Productions. mavrufino@gmail.com

The future will be decentralized

ON THE INTERNET, as a friend recently reminded me, everything looks permanent until it isn’t. As technology evolves, the most profound and destabilizing change is likely to be the transition from centralized internet services to decentralized ones.

Centralized services typically are run by companies or institutions, such as Facebook, Twitter, or Amazon. There is a command structure and a boss, and changes can be made by deliberate decision. In this parlance, even Wikipedia counts as centralized, though the editors and contributors are scattered around the world.

Decentralized services are harder to define, but two simple examples may be helpful. The first is e-mail, which consists of networks of rules and interconnections not owned by any one company or institution, even though your e-mail provider might be.

The second is the World Wide Web itself, a series of protocols with a huge amount of stuff built on top of it. Bitcoin also operates in a decentralized way, unless a majority of the blockchain miners decide otherwise, which is very difficult to pull off.

When I hear laypersons discuss the future of the internet, the most common question is what kind of company or service is coming next. Clubhouse, the audio discussion forum, is one recent innovation in social media, and no doubt there will be more.

When I hear internet entrepreneurs discuss the future, the biggest question is what kind of decentralized service or platform might be next. The internet has gone through numerous fundamental changes since its origins in the 1960s, and more smart people are working on innovation than ever before. There is no good reason to assume the status quo is sacred; in fact there is ample reason to suppose otherwise.

The technology entrepreneur Balaji Srinivasan predicts a radically decentralized future. In his frequent Twitter postings, crypto and decentralization will swallow the world, to paraphrase Marc Andreessen’s decade-old claim about software. If Twitter censors some of its posters, users can seek out new platforms that do not allow such intrusions.

Why not, for example, put social media on blockchains and have efficient cryptocurrency micropayments to reward those who help maintain such mechanisms? Censoring postings on such a service would be as difficult as trying to overwrite a blockchain ledger, which is to say very difficult. (Indeed such postings would be a blockchain ledger, albeit in a more digestible form.) And instead of having to deal with the content rules of Twitter or WhatsApp, perhaps you could customize and build your own rules.

According to Srinivasan, such exchanges — for not only money but also information — will eventually evolve beyond easy governmental or gatekeeper control. It may even be hard to recognize what money is anymore. This is a world that would have made no sense if you had tried to describe it to anyone a mere dozen years ago.

Another vertigo-inducing vision of the future can be glimpsed at zora.co. If you are initially baffled — join the club! Think of Zora as like Spotify, except for more than just music, and the creators keep the rights and sell at prices they decide. It attempts to be an open-source ecosystem for building the future of art.

If radical decentralization does come about, the concept most in need of radical revision may be adjudication. Have you read those stories of people who have their crypto wallets hacked and have no bank or intermediary to go to for a refund? Or of those people who cannot remember their crypto passwords and will lose millions in locked accounts as a result? It is possible that this kind of thing will become far more common, and notions of control will require a wholesale rethinking.

Having grown up in an analog world, I find these ambitious visions both unsurprising and bewildering. On one hand, I have seen the transition of so much activity to the digital world that another major revolution should not shock me. On the other hand, (a possibly atavistic) part of me likes knowing that someone or something is in control, whether it’s a government, a bunch of people in Mountain View, or even just my dean.

“Life on the blockchain” feels alienating in a way that goes beyond old-style Marxist concerns. (Remember, I am the kind of guy who prefers to slip coins into the parking meter rather than download the app.) When I ask myself what services I am really missing, I find I’m far more interested in a new Chinese restaurant in my town than new open-source platforms to enable innovations I will never quite understand. — BLOOMBERG OPINION

Mexico’s Senate majority leader puts forward legislation to regulate Facebook, Twitter

MEXICO CITY – A prominent senator from Mexico’s ruling party has proposed regulating major social media networks, including Twitter and Facebook, in a draft bill seen by Reuters on Monday.

In a reform to the federal telecommunications law, the planned legislation would grant the IFT, Mexico’s telecoms regulator, oversight in establishing a framework for the suspension and elimination of accounts on social networks.

The draft bill named Facebook, which is used by more than 90% of internet users in Mexico, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and Snapchat as networks that would be included in the IFT’s mandate to “establish the bases and general principles of the protection of freedom of expression in social networks.”

Ricardo Monreal, who leads President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador’s National Regeneration Movement (MORENA) party in the upper house, proposed the legislation and is seeking public comment.

Mr. Lopez Obrador has been critical of social media, including Facebook’s decision to deactivate former U.S. President Donald Trump’s account. In January, Mr. Lopez Obrador singled out a Twitter employee in Mexico, suggesting his former connections to an opposition party could compromise the company’s ability to be neutral.

A representative for Facebook declined to comment. A spokesperson for Twitter did not immediately respond to a request for comment. – Reuters

Australia’s gold industry stamped out mercury pollution – now it’s coal’s turn

Mercury is a nasty toxin that harms humans and ecosystems.

Most human exposure comes from eating contaminated fish and other seafood. But how does mercury enter the Australian environment in the first place?

Our recent research dug into official data and past research to answer this question.

In some rare good news for the environment, it turns out one Australian industry – gold production – has brought mercury emissions down to almost zero. But more can be done about mercury emitted from coal-fired power stations.

Australia is one of the few developed countries yet to ratify the United Nations’ Minamata Convention on Mercury, which aims to reduce mercury in the environment. But once we deal with emissions from coal burning, we’ll be closer than ever to addressing the problem.

Mercury is a heavy metal that cycles between the atmosphere, ocean and land. It occurs naturally but can be toxic to humans and wildlife.

Most human-caused mercury emissions come from the burning of fossil fuels and the mining and production of gold and other metals.

What’s more, items such as light bulbs and thermometers dumped in landfill can release mercury 30-50 years later.

Once in the air, mercury can float around for months, crossing oceans and continents to end up back on the ground, far from where it was emitted.

It’s eventually taken up by soils, water and plants, then slowly released back to the atmosphere.

Estimates vary on the exact amount of mercury that Australian activities release to the air. Studies we reviewed put the figure at anywhere between 8 and 30 tonnes each year.

Our analysis shows the figure is likely at the low end of that range – largely due to a single success story.

In 2006, a gold production facility in Kalgoorlie was thought to cause half of Australia’s industrial mercury emissions. The massive operation includes the Fimiston Open Pit, or “Super Pit”, purportedly so large it can be seen from space.

Gold ore naturally contains mercury. To extract the gold, the ore is typically roasted at temperatures of up to 600℃. During this process, the mercury escapes into the atmosphere. Most mercury pollution from Australia’s gold industry came from a single roaster at the Kalgoorlie site.

But over one decade, mercury emissions from the operation dropped from more than 8 tonnes to just 250 kilograms. This was largely due to a technology upgrade in 2015, when the roaster was replaced by a grinding process.

This success means coal-fired power plants are now Australia’s largest controllable source of mercury emissions. They emit between two and four tonnes of mercury every year (along with other air pollutants).

Other natural and human activities release mercury into the air. They include:

Bushfires: Mercury is usually released to the environment over decades. But the process can be much more rapid if the vegetation burns in a bushfire.

Our research found most estimates of bushfire emissions fall between 4 and 40 tonnes each year. But this work relied on measurements from overseas. New measurements from Australian ecosystems suggests past estimates are probably too high – possibly due to lower mercury concentrations in some Australian vegetation.

Soils and unburnt vegtation: Only one study has calculated the mercury released from Australian soils and unburnt vegetation, which it put at a whopping 74 to 222 tonnes per year.

When that research was published in 2012, there were no Australian data to test the model behind these numbers. We still don’t have many measurements, but most data we do have show Australian soils and vegetation take up about as much mercury as they release.

The one exception is “enriched” soils, which contain more mercury than other soils. This is because they are located over natural mineral belts and at former mining sites. At one location in northern New South Wales, enriched soils emitted more than 100 times as much mercury as nearby unenriched soils.

Mercury from elsewhere: Mercury released by other countries can travel to Australia in the air. The levels are tough to quantify, but we are currently using models to produce an estimate.

Even with our new, lower estimates, Australia’s per capita mercury emissions remain higher than the global average, likely due to our reliance on coal burning. Technology can lower these emissions.

Some mercury emitted by power plants isn’t in the air for long before it falls to Earth. This can harm nearby people and ecosystems.

The federal government recently banned mercury-containing pesticides used in sugar cane farming. With gold production also taken care of, reducing mercury emissions from power plants is the logical next step.

It’s also time for Australia to formally commit to the Minamata Convention. Once we ratify the deal, we’ll be bound to control mercury emissions under international law – and that’s good for humans and wildlife everywhere.

Despite low life expectancy, Filipinos are optimistic about their health — report

The Philippines ranks fourth among 13 Asian markets in overall health perception, with more than half of Filipinos (57%) being optimistic about their health, according to Pulse of Asia: The Health of Asia Barometer, a report developed by the Economist Intelligence Unit and supported by British multinational insurance company Prudential plc that outlines the current state of healthcare in the region, its challenges, and the role digital health technology can play to improve wellness.

“People are generally optimistic when it comes to health and well-being. This optimism about the future, however, is not correlated with life expectancy,” said Andrew Y. K. Wong, chief health officer of Prudential Corporation Asia, in a recent roundtable discussion. 

Singapore and Hong Kong enjoy higher life expectancies, said Mr. Wong, but their citizens are relatively downbeat about health. “In places like Indonesia and the Philippines, on the other hand, people are more positive about health in the mid-term. They are more optimistic about managing their health.” (According to data from the World Bank, life expectancy in Hong Kong is 84.93 years; Singapore, 83.15 years; Indonesia, 71.51 years; and the Philippines, 71.10 years.)

Filipinos also rank second (34%) among Asians to have taken measures in the past three months to improve their emotional well-being. This, after reporting they were depressed and anxious (40%), and that they experienced elevated stress, anxiety, and depression as a result of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) (42%). 

“Treat mental health at par with physical health,” Mr. Wong said. “Although there is increased optimism, in general, most societies are still fazed from the various lockdowns and the frequent isolation from friends and family.” He added the government needs to help manage this concern.

TECHNOLOGY CAN HELP FILL HEALTHCARE GAPS

The Asia-wide research, which surveyed 5,000 people during the second half of 2020, also presents the potential of technology to combat healthcare challenges. Four in five respondents (81%) said technology has already improved their access to health services, while three in five (60%) believe it has improved its affordability. Three years from now, 71% of those surveyed said they will rely on technology even more to improve their personal health and well-being. 

“Digital health technologies are popular but need to work harder for citizens,” the report said, citing a need for centralized data repositories, such as patient health records.

In the Philippines, 79% of respondents say they already use digital health platforms, as well as personal health technologies such as smartwatches and fitness trackers. More than a third (36%), however, prefer in-person consultations, the highest in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region.

Strict data governance needs to underpin connected health services, the report recommends. Data security enables health data to be safely centralized, and empower governments to design better policies around healthcare infrastructure.

“There is a need to connect digital health technologies in the Philippine context and identify which mobile apps would be in the best position to help the common folk,” said Dr. Raymond R. Sarmiento, director of the National Telehealth Center. 

The Philippines, he added, has a high attrition rate. “There are those who download an app and then stop using it after five days,” he said. “Others download apps, which then sit idly on their phones and don’t get revisited.” — Patricia B. Mirasol

How to prepare for a telemedicine consultation

The pandemic is not a reason to skip a doctor’s visit. Telemedicine services abound, and it pays to prepare prior to a virtual consultation to get the most out of it. Here are a few tips shared by Dr. Iris M. Garcia, a cardiologist from the Philippine Heart Center, during a Feb. 9 health forum hosted by the Philippine Heart Center: 

  • Prepare a list of at least three questions to make good use of the time. “List down your most pressing concerns, kasi minsan napuputol ang internet [because sometimes the internet connection gets cut off],” she said.
  • If you have any diagnostic laboratory results, especially those related to your concerns, have them on hand, so your doctor can check them. 

Dr. Luigi Pierre S. Segundo, a cardiologist from The Medical City, added that it was also important to take down personal notes. “Hindi lang kasi prescription ang ibibigay sa ’yo, pati rin advice [Your doctor isn’t just going to give your prescription, but also advice on how to manage your condition].” — P. B. Mirasol

Mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer care

In March 2020, the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) was designated by the Department of Health (DoH) as one of the three coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) referral centers in Metro Manila. As a result, a substantial proportion of the hospital’s logistics and manpower was allocated to caring for COVID-19 patients. 

The PGH Cancer Institute, among other non-emergency outpatient specialty services of the hospital, ceased operations for one week to ensure the safety of cancer patients who are mostly immunocompromised and therefore have a higher risk of getting infected with the novel coronavirus. (“Treatment of cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines,” Ecancermedicalscience, May 8, 2020.) 

“[Before the pandemic], we would see an average of 120 patients for checkup, cater to 40–50 patients on outpatient chemotherapy, 80–100 patients on radiotherapy, and take care of 20–25 patients admitted for inpatient chemotherapy regimens on a regular workday. This past week, most of our time was spent answering phone calls and text messages from patients, explaining to them the unfortunate scenario of closed clinics and suspended services, and facilitating the transfer of their care,” wrote PGH Cancer Institute consultants Drs. Frederic Ivan Ting, Aveline Marie Ylanan, and Dennis Lee Sacdalan. (“The Pain of Sending Away Cancer Patients Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic,” Eurasian Journal of Medicine and Oncology, April 2020.)

Patient advocate Fatima Garcia-Lorenzo shared the same concern when she spoke during the Health for Juan & Juana webinar forum. “Around 20% of our cancer patients have not been able to receive their regular treatments, and many have relapsed. Aside from the lack of public transportation, cancer patients with weakened immune systems also have to contend with the lack of non-COVID wards in some hospitals, forcing them to pass through the same entrances and corridors used by COVID-19 patients,” said Ms. Garcia-Lorenzo, executive director of Kythe Foundation and president of the Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations (PAPO).

Due to the overwhelming impact of the pandemic on cancer patients, the Cancer Coalition Philippines (CCPh) and members of the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) together with the DoH and BusinessWorld as a media partner, is holding a series of virtual fora to put a spotlight on the current plight of cancer patients in the country. Together with us in the forum series are pharmaceutical companies MSD, Pfizer, Roche, Takeda, Boehringer Ingelheim, Novartis, and Johnson & Johnson. 

The CCPh, on the other hand, is composed of the I Can Serve Foundation, Philippine Cancer Society, Cancer Warriors Foundation, Philippine Society of Oncologists, Project: Brave Kids, Carewell Community Foundation, and the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology. 

A forum held on Feb. 4, titled “Cancer Conversations: Navigating Cancer with Patients,” aimed to support patients, increase understanding, and update information on where to get assistance during the pandemic.  

The forum also revisited the implementation of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA), an internationally acclaimed law for comprehensively mapping the path forward to strengthen cancer control, increase cancer survivorship and reduce the burden on patients and families. 

“This pandemic has underscored the importance of a strong and reliable healthcare system for any given country, but with landmark laws such as the National Integrated Cancer Control Act and the Universal Healthcare Law, we will ensure that we build a health system that provides quality healthcare without financial hardship for every Filipino, including our cancer patients. As we continue fighting the pandemic, the DoH, together with its partners, shall continue to provide early and sufficient access to cancer medicines and ensure the highest possible chance of survival among people with cancer,” Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III said.

“The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the strengths and weakness of our healthcare system. Over the years, cancer awareness groups have been advocating cancer care prevention, screening, early detection, and access to palliative care. Through this forum, cancer patients can share the challenges they faced during the pandemic and what resources became available to them. In addition to this, cancer patients and their families are looking forward to a hopeful life journey because equitable and affordable cancer treatment and care are provided for under the cancer law. We share in the call for its full implementation so that patients need not wait anymore,” noted Paul Perez, president of the CCPh and Project Brave Kids founder.

The COVID-19 pandemic affected healthcare systems globally and resulted in the interruption of usual care in many healthcare facilities, exposing vulnerable patients with cancer to significant risks. This was the key finding of a global collaborative study that used a validated web-based, 51-item questionnaire to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer care. A total of 356 centers from 54 countries across six continents (including Asia) participated in the study between April 21 and May 8, 2020. These centers serve more than 700,000 new cancer patients a year. (“Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Cancer Care: A Global Collaborative Study,” JCO Global Oncology, Sept. 28, 2020.)

Most of the centers (88.2%) reported facing challenges in delivering care during the pandemic. Although more than half (55.34%) reduced services as part of a preemptive strategy, other common reasons included an overwhelmed system (19.94%), lack of personal protective equipment (19.10%), staff shortage because of infection (17.98%), and restricted access to medications (9.83%). Almost half of the centers (46.31%) reported at least one cycle of therapy was missed by more than 10% of their patients. Participants reported patient exposure to harm from interruption of cancer-specific care (36.52%) and noncancer-related care (39.04%), with some centers estimating that up to 80% of their patients were exposed to harm. (“Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Cancer Care: A Global Collaborative Study,” JCO Global Oncology, Sept. 28, 2020.)

When the Cancer Institute reopened in April 2020, it implemented key strategies as part of a comprehensive approach to facilitate care delivery and meet the challenges imposed by the pandemic. This approach was informed by guidelines and recommendations to clinicians on the care of cancer patients during this pandemic issued by the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the European Society of Medical Oncology, and the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology. 

We can use the lessons learned during this difficult time to better prepare and create a more resilient healthcare system to manage future pandemics and health emergencies.

Five countries to abandon Pacific forum over leadership vote

SYDNEY/WELLINGTON – Five Pacific island nations will start withdrawing from the region’s main political forum, according to a joint statement, in the fallout from a fractious leadership vote last week.

The presidents of Nauru, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Kiribati, Marshall Islands and Palau said an informal agreement to elect a new chief diplomat from their Micronesia sub-region was not honoured.

The impending withdrawals from the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) would reduce the number of members to 13 and be dominated by South Pacific nations like Fiji, Papua New Guinea and regional heavyweights Australia and New Zealand.

“There is no value in participating in an organisation that does not respect established agreements, including the gentlemen’s agreement on sub-regional rotation,” said the statement, sent after a virtual meeting of the Micronesian country leaders on Monday.

Former Cook Islands prime minister Henry Puna won the tightly-contested vote last week to become the forum’s new Secretary General.

Mr. Puna defeated Micronesia’s Gerald Zackious, the Marshall Islands ambassador to the United States, by nine votes to eight.

PIF chair Kausea Natano, from Tuvalu, said last week the result was a “consensus decision” that followed an agreed process.

The dispute represents one of the biggest member revolts in the 50-year history of the forum, which has consistently lobbied larger nations to combat climate change that threatens their low-lying islands.

Most island nation governments are also facing severe economic headwinds, due to their heavy reliance on international tourism, an industry that abruptly shut last year due to the coronavius pandemic.

The sparsely populated South Pacific island countries are strategic locations that have in recent years become a battleground for influence between China and the United States and its allies.

The joint letter said that while the five countries would initiate the withdrawal process, the final decision on how to proceed remained with the respective governments.

Anna Powles, senior lecturer in the Centre for Defence and Security Studies at Massey University based in Wellington, said there would likely need to be concessions made in order for any of the Micronesian states to remain with the forum. – Reuters

How to navigate a freelance career during the COVID-19 crisis

Millions of people around the world have lost their jobs, temporarily or permanently, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Freelancers and contract workers have been among those heavily affected by this health and economic crisis. Freelancers often work on a contract basis and for multiple clients. In some industries (such as cosmetics, arts and sports), freelancers have lost many contracts and employment opportunities.

The Canadian government has offered financial support to these gig workers. However, the long-term effects on freelancers might go beyond losing their source of income. It may require them to seek more stable forms of employment, foregoing the flexibility many gig workers enjoy.

This could halt further development of the freelance employment cohort, which was expected to grow significantly in coming years. So it’s important to understand how freelancers can cope with the pandemic and remain positive.

I designed a study to examine how freelancers can stay positive and determined in their job searches and how they can cope with the shock of COVID-19. In my study, I looked into three aspects I call “career resources” that freelancers might use to stay confident and to explore their job opportunities.

These resources are explained in a book titled An Intelligent Career by Suffolk University career expert Michael Arthur and his colleagues. As explained in this book, people use a combination of resources to work and navigate their careers, including the following three:

  • Passion for career: Internal motivation (or passion) to do the job;
  • Expertise and skills: A set of skills that helps them perform the job; and
  • Professional relationships: Colleagues and friends who offer encouragement, help and support.

In short, I wanted to answer these questions: Do these three career resources help freelancers stay confident in times of uncertainty? Which career resources help them remain determined in exploring their job opportunities?

To find out, I asked 87 Canadian freelancers to complete a survey about their job search during the COVID-19 pandemic. I asked questions about their career resources (their passion for their freelance jobs, their level of skills and expertise, and their relationships). I also asked questions about their confidence in finding jobs as well as their proactiveness in exploring job opportunities.

Statistical analysis showed that passion was the most powerful resource for freelancers to stay confident and motivated in job searches. Skills were also related to freelancers’ level of confidence and proactiveness.

However, relationships did not necessarily contribute positively to freelancers’ confidence and proactiveness in their job search. This could possibly be because they’ve heard disheartening news about their friends and colleagues losing jobs during difficult times, such as the pandemic. The larger someone’s network of people is, the more likely that they’ve heard bad news and negative thoughts. As a result, freelancers might lose confidence and drive after hearing that many of their colleagues and friends lost work.

There are many ways governments and employers can help freelancers remain hopeful, confident and proactive in their job searches.

Because passion and skills are key resources for freelancers, governments can provide programs that enable them to develop their skills and enhance their passions. For example, online educational videos can provide freelancers with insightful information on key skills such as leadership. These online videos could be provided to various groups of freelancers, especially those who apply for employment insurance in times of difficulty.

Employers can also assist freelancers by designing interesting jobs with on-the-job learning and growth opportunities. These opportunities not only improve freelancers’ skills, but also heighten their passion by satisfying their desire to feel challenged.

Friends and family members can also help freelancers. In my study, friends and colleagues did not necessarily improve freelancers’ confidence and proactiveness. It might be because so many people share negative thoughts and discouraging news about widespread job losses and potential economic crises.

I suggest people be kinder and spread positive thoughts to the freelancers in their lives. This is central to one of the three career resources that many people rely on in their professional lives — friends and colleagues offering support and encouragement.

Last but not least, freelancers themselves must be proactive. They can take advantage of lockdowns and economic downturns by investing their time in skill development. An inexpensive (or sometimes free) way to do so is to take online courses related to their area of work, leadership or interpersonal skills.

Taking these courses will help them feel more skilled and connected, which will help increase their passion for their work while putting them in a stronger position to find jobs. – Reuters

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