Happy anniversary The FREEMAN!

Let me start by congratulating The FREEMAN on its 103rd anniversary. As the longest running newspaper in Cebu, and one of the oldest in the country, this paper has stood the test of time. The story of The FREEMAN is a testament to the resilience, courage, and dignity of the Cebuanos. Through the years it survived economic and political crises and martial law. It has faced but embraced the threats of emerging media platforms, changing consumer preferences and economic downturns. An institution as old as it is, The FREEMAN must have been doing something right to have reached this far. If ever there is a National Museum of the Press, it is without a doubt that The FREEMAN will be given its rightful place, being 103 years and still true to its word of delivering fair and fearless journalism. The FREEMAN is here to stay for many, many more years to come.

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This week a client called me asking if there are ways to expedite her husband’s petition pending before the US consulate in Manila. Her case has been pending for quite some time now and they have not received any notice that an immigrant visa interview is forthcoming.

As you all know, the COVID-19 pandemic has drastically affected every one of us including government offices. Bear in mind that these offices are staffed by human beings who are also severely impacted by this worldwide crisis. As of this moment, the NVC and the consulates are trying their very best to serve their clients in the fastest and safest way possible. So in answer to the client’s question, yes you may request for an expedite interview appointment but only in a dire emergency. Be prepared to present your reasons such as family emergency and the corresponding evidence to deserve an earlier interview appointment. You could always call and follow up with the US consulate if you want to and that is if you can also get through.

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The US, Europe, and some parts of Asia have seen a steady rise of COVID-19 cases lately with a new strain as the culprit. It is said that the new variant is more easily transmissible though less fatal. Some places in the US have been considering reinstating the indoor mask mandate and other COVID-19 protocols in order to prevent a new surge. There is even talk of having a widespread second booster shot due to the strain’s very active endurance in evading prior vaccine protection.

I always tell my immigrant clients who work in hospitals, nursing homes, restaurants, and crowded places to be on guard for COVID. Always be mindful that the virus is still very much amidst us and is highly clever in ensuring its survival.