Han Li

Hundreds of people packed a restaurant in San Francisco’s Japantown on Monday night—all clamoring for the open bar and caviar appetizers, and all under the name of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/13/san-francisco-apec-traffic-protests-parties/">the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit</a>, which is taking over the city this week.

How the APEC summit may affect your daily life in San Francisco

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Hundreds of people packed a restaurant in San Francisco’s Japantown on Monday night—all clamoring for the open bar and caviar appetizers, and all under the name of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/13/san-francisco-apec-traffic-protests-parties/">the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit</a>, which is taking over the city this week.

Of course, California—which <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-11-02/what-does-it-mean-if-california-becomes-worlds-4th-largest-economy">may soon become the fourth-largest economy in the world</a>—cares about trade, investment and the economic development of the Pacific Rim. But for many locals, APEC is more about having fun. Perhaps the most frequently asked question this week is: “What are the events you are going to?”&nbsp;

Of course, California—which <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-11-02/what-does-it-mean-if-california-becomes-worlds-4th-largest-economy">may soon become the fourth-largest economy in the world</a>—cares about trade, investment and the economic development of the Pacific Rim. But for many locals, APEC is more about having fun. Perhaps the most frequently asked question this week is: “What are the events you are going to?”&nbsp;

It’s often followed by the most frequent reply: “I need an invite to that.”

It’s often followed by the most frequent reply: “I need an invite to that.”

Fiona Ma, California’s state treasurer and the host of Monday night’s reception with the pro-business nonprofit GlobalSF, will go to “a select number of events” this week.

Fiona Ma, California’s state treasurer and the host of Monday night’s reception with the pro-business nonprofit GlobalSF, will go to “a select number of events” this week.

State Treasurer Fiona Ma speaks to the crowd at an event during Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation week in San Francisco on Nov. 13, 2023.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_4527.jpeg?w=2500" alt="Multiple speakers, including California top officials, gather for a photo at an event." class="wp-image-221323"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">State Treasurer Fiona Ma, standing with other California&#8217;s top officials, speaks to the crowd during an APEC event on Monday.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_4527.jpeg?w=2500" alt="Multiple speakers, including California top officials, gather for a photo at an event." class="wp-image-221323"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">State Treasurer Fiona Ma, standing with other California's top officials, speaks to the crowd during an APEC event on Monday.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_4527.jpeg?w=2500" alt="Multiple speakers, including California top officials, gather for a photo at an event." class="wp-image-221323"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">State Treasurer Fiona Ma, standing with other California&#8217;s top officials, speaks to the crowd during an APEC event on Monday.</figcaption></figure>

“There are so many,” Ma told The Standard. “We really wanted to do events to welcome the business folks and have people network.”

“There are so many,” Ma told The Standard. “We really wanted to do events to welcome the business folks and have people network.”

Ma said she was heading to a dinner with U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen right after the reception, an event with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the de Young Museum on Tuesday and a <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-07/xi-to-meet-us-business-executives-for-dinner-in-san-francisco" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high-profile dinner with China’s President Xi Jinping on Wednesday</a>.

Ma said she was heading to a dinner with U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen right after the reception, an event with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the de Young Museum on Tuesday and a <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-07/xi-to-meet-us-business-executives-for-dinner-in-san-francisco" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high-profile dinner with China’s President Xi Jinping on Wednesday</a>.

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/10/san-francisco-apec-vip-party/">Many other fancy parties</a> were also happening around town Monday night, including the APEC business leader gala at the Westin St. Francis hotel and a party at the Ferry Building sponsored by APEC donor and San Francisco-based company Visa. Starting Tuesday, with the arrival of President Joe Biden and other global leaders, hot-ticket events begin in earnest.

World leaders, CEOs will party across San Francisco during APEC. Here’s where

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/10/san-francisco-apec-vip-party/">Many other fancy parties</a> were also happening around town Monday night, including the APEC business leader gala at the Westin St. Francis hotel and a party at the Ferry Building sponsored by APEC donor and San Francisco-based company Visa. Starting Tuesday, with the arrival of President Joe Biden and other global leaders, hot-ticket events begin in earnest.

Mary Jung, a local Democratic Party power player, said she’s going to Biden’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/13/gwen-stefani-biden-apec-san-francisco-party/">reception at the Exploratorium</a> on Wednesday and a reception with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi on Friday.

Gwen Stefani to perform at Biden&#8217;s APEC party in San Francisco, sources say

Mary Jung, a local Democratic Party power player, said she’s going to Biden’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/13/gwen-stefani-biden-apec-san-francisco-party/">reception at the Exploratorium</a> on Wednesday and a reception with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi on Friday.

“I am limiting to one event per night,” Jung said. “I work a day job!”

“I am limiting to one event per night,” Jung said. “I work a day job!”

She also praised the city for cleaning up the streets for APEC and trusted San Franciscans could maintain the situation even after the summit.

She also praised the city for cleaning up the streets for APEC and trusted San Franciscans could maintain the situation even after the summit.

People mingled and taking pictures inside at the welcoming night party at City Hall hosted by Breed and Dominic Ng on Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20231027apecopeningparty_0007.jpg?w=2500" alt="People scattered throughout city hall taking pictures and talking with one another at a welcome party for APEC." class="wp-image-220719"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">People mingle and take pictures inside San Francisco City Hall for an APEC welcoming party on Sunday. </figcaption></figure>

Biden will also host a fundraiser with Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday, while a dinner for high-level heads of APEC member economies is scheduled for Thursday night at the Legion of Honor.&nbsp;

Biden will also host a fundraiser with Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday, while a dinner for high-level heads of APEC member economies is scheduled for Thursday night at the Legion of Honor.&nbsp;

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/08/san-francisco-apec-events-parties-food-nightlife/">Local residents without these exclusive invites can still party somewhere else</a>. Steven Lee, a longtime nightlife advocate and current San Francisco port commissioner, said APEC should increase business for local bars and restaurants. He hoped more visitors would patronize stores inside the APEC security zone in Central SoMa.

Forget boring, exclusive APEC meetings. Here&#8217;s where the fun parties will be in San Francisco

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/08/san-francisco-apec-events-parties-food-nightlife/">Local residents without these exclusive invites can still party somewhere else</a>. Steven Lee, a longtime nightlife advocate and current San Francisco port commissioner, said APEC should increase business for local bars and restaurants. He hoped more visitors would patronize stores inside the APEC security zone in Central SoMa.

Lee also organized <a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0aUTsMx74t964EipGnrFFku6PPCvDBrRUa1EwcRPZncD9rvC6XXzpgLRx1C6HdNBLl&amp;id=1061153603" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multiple Chinatown events</a> for foreign press to learn about the community’s history and culture. But when asked about his own APEC party schedule this week, he joked that he wasn’t invited to any.

Lee also organized <a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0aUTsMx74t964EipGnrFFku6PPCvDBrRUa1EwcRPZncD9rvC6XXzpgLRx1C6HdNBLl&amp;id=1061153603" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multiple Chinatown events</a> for foreign press to learn about the community’s history and culture. But when asked about his own APEC party schedule this week, he joked that he wasn’t invited to any.

&#8220;I have a commission meeting until 6 p.m. on Tuesday,&#8221; Lee told The Standard, holding a drink at the bar. &#8220;I am not a VIP.&#8221;

"I have a commission meeting until 6 p.m. on Tuesday," Lee told The Standard, holding a drink at the bar. "I am not a VIP."

&#8220;I have a commission meeting until 6 p.m. on Tuesday,&#8221; Lee told The Standard, holding a drink at the bar. &#8220;I am not a VIP.&#8221;

What international summit? APEC becomes prime time for San Francisco’s partygoers

Garrett Leahy

San Francisco residents and business owners are worried about heightened security measures around the Moscone Center for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in November.

San Francisco residents and business owners are worried about heightened security measures around the Moscone Center for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in November.

The massive global summit will be attended by world leaders from 21 countries, including President Joe Biden, and 30,000 visitors.

The massive global summit will be attended by world leaders from 21 countries, including President Joe Biden, and 30,000 visitors.

From Nov. 15 to 18, streets around the Moscone Center will be under a security perimeter, requiring residents who live within the secure zone to show ID to pass through if they&#8217;re in a vehicle. If your driver&#8217;s license or ID doesn&#8217;t have your current address on it, you will need to show a secondary form of ID, like a utility bill, according to the U.S. Secret Service, which is in charge of security for the event.

From Nov. 15 to 18, streets around the Moscone Center will be under a security perimeter, requiring residents who live within the secure zone to show ID to pass through if they're in a vehicle. If your driver's license or ID doesn't have your current address on it, you will need to show a secondary form of ID, like a utility bill, according to the U.S. Secret Service, which is in charge of security for the event.

From Nov. 15 to 18, streets around the Moscone Center will be under a security perimeter, requiring residents who live within the secure zone to show ID to pass through if they&#8217;re in a vehicle. If your driver&#8217;s license or ID doesn&#8217;t have your current address on it, you will need to show a secondary form of ID, like a utility bill, according to the U.S. Secret Service, which is in charge of security for the event.

Pedestrians will not be asked for identification or secondary forms of ID but will still need to go through security upon entering the area, a Secret Service spokesperson said.

Pedestrians will not be asked for identification or secondary forms of ID but will still need to go through security upon entering the area, a Secret Service spokesperson said.

The security perimeter around Moscone Center is bordered by Market, Harrison, Second and Fifth streets, with no public transit running through.

The security perimeter around Moscone Center is bordered by Market, Harrison, Second and Fifth streets, with no public transit running through.

A map shows security restrictions around the Moscone Center for APEC between Nov. 15 and Nov. 18.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/FireShot-Capture-480-Public-APEC-Map-sfgov.maps_.arcgis.com_.png?w=1636" alt="" class="wp-image-214831"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A map shows security restrictions around the Moscone Center for APEC between Nov. 15 and 18. Red lines indicate closed roads, while yellow dots mark vehicle checkpoints. Red dots show pedestrian checkpoints.</figcaption></figure>

Vehicles that do not need to enter the perimeter for residential or business purposes will not be allowed in, APEC spokesperson Priya David Clemens said.

Vehicles that do not need to enter the perimeter for residential or business purposes will not be allowed in, APEC spokesperson Priya David Clemens said.

The pedestrian checkpoints will have metal detectors but no ID checks, Clemens said. Yerba Buena Gardens will also remain open to the public, she added.

The pedestrian checkpoints will have metal detectors but no ID checks, Clemens said. Yerba Buena Gardens will also remain open to the public, she added.

In addition, there will be altered public transit routes to avoid the closed-off perimeter, highway off-ramp closures, a heightened law enforcement presence and beefed-up Coast Guard patrols in San Francisco Bay.

In addition, there will be altered public transit routes to avoid the closed-off perimeter, highway off-ramp closures, a heightened law enforcement presence and beefed-up Coast Guard patrols in San Francisco Bay.

Other restrictions include:

Other restrictions include:

<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Restrictions around Nob Hill&#8217;s Fairmont Hotel, where the president will likely stay, will begin late Monday night, Nov. 13 </li>



<li>Restrictions around the Exploratorium on Nov. 15 at noon </li>



<li>Street impacts around the Legion of Honor beginning Nov. 16 at noon</li>
</ul>

Restrictions around Nob Hill&#8217;s Fairmont Hotel, where the president will likely stay, will begin late Monday night, Nov. 13

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<li>Restrictions around Nob Hill's Fairmont Hotel, where the president will likely stay, will begin late Monday night, Nov. 13 </li>

<li>Restrictions around Nob Hill&#8217;s Fairmont Hotel, where the president will likely stay, will begin late Monday night, Nov. 13 </li>

Restrictions around the Exploratorium on Nov. 15 at noon

<li>Restrictions around the Exploratorium on Nov. 15 at noon </li>

Street impacts around the Legion of Honor beginning Nov. 16 at noon

<li>Street impacts around the Legion of Honor beginning Nov. 16 at noon</li>

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<ul><li>Restrictions around Nob Hill&#8217;s Fairmont Hotel, where the president will likely stay, will begin late Monday night, Nov. 13 </li><li>Restrictions around the Exploratorium on Nov. 15 at noon </li><li>Street impacts around the Legion of Honor beginning Nov. 16 at noon</li></ul>

Facade of the Moscone Center convention center in downtown San Francisco, California during its 2018 renovation, August 2, 2018. (Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1012647538.jpg?w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-214702"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Moscone Center will have a security perimeter around it for APEC.</figcaption></figure>

Yerba Buena Gardens will remain open to the public during APEC, a spokesperson said.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/IMG_5850.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-214695"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Yerba Buena Gardens will remain open to the public during APEC, a spokesperson said.</figcaption></figure>

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/18/apec-summit-security-secret-service-moscone-center/">Feds Release Security Details for San Francisco’s APEC Summit, Including Central Subway Closure</a>

Feds release security details for San Francisco’s APEC summit, including Central Subway closure

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/18/apec-summit-security-secret-service-moscone-center/">Feds Release Security Details for San Francisco’s APEC Summit, Including Central Subway Closure</a>

The public should also expect parking restrictions. All vehicles parked in violation of the emergency &#8220;no parking&#8221; signs will be ticketed and towed. Notices will be posted at least 72 hours in advance of sign implementation.&nbsp;

The public should also expect parking restrictions. All vehicles parked in violation of the emergency "no parking" signs will be ticketed and towed. Notices will be posted at least 72 hours in advance of sign implementation.&nbsp;

The public should also expect parking restrictions. All vehicles parked in violation of the emergency &#8220;no parking&#8221; signs will be ticketed and towed. Notices will be posted at least 72 hours in advance of sign implementation.&nbsp;

Here&#8217;s a <a href="https://www.sfmta.com/projects/asia-pacific-economic-cooperation-apec-transit-and-travel-information">list of all 21 public transit lines</a> being redirected around the security perimeter and <a href="https://www.sfmta.com/projects/asia-pacific-economic-cooperation-apec-transit-and-travel-information" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a map of all detours for private car traffic</a>.

Here's a <a href="https://www.sfmta.com/projects/asia-pacific-economic-cooperation-apec-transit-and-travel-information">list of all 21 public transit lines</a> being redirected around the security perimeter and <a href="https://www.sfmta.com/projects/asia-pacific-economic-cooperation-apec-transit-and-travel-information" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a map of all detours for private car traffic</a>.

Here&#8217;s a <a href="https://www.sfmta.com/projects/asia-pacific-economic-cooperation-apec-transit-and-travel-information">list of all 21 public transit lines</a> being redirected around the security perimeter and <a href="https://www.sfmta.com/projects/asia-pacific-economic-cooperation-apec-transit-and-travel-information" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a map of all detours for private car traffic</a>.

<a href="https://sfgov.maps.arcgis.com/apps/mapviewer/index.html?webmap=cff7f147743d45e0a7ccb8546433f1d9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">See here for a map</a> of all checkpoints during APEC.

<a href="https://sfgov.maps.arcgis.com/apps/mapviewer/index.html?webmap=cff7f147743d45e0a7ccb8546433f1d9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">See here for a map</a> of all checkpoints during APEC.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-it-s-ridiculous">‘It’s Ridiculous’</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-it-s-ridiculous">‘It’s Ridiculous’</h2>

Michael Melendrez said he was surprised at how long the APEC security measures will last.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/IMG_5835.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-214685"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Michael Melendrez said he was surprised at how long the APEC security measures will last.</figcaption></figure>

Michael and Erika Melendrez, who live outside the secured area and don’t have a car, said they were still surprised by the extent of the lockdown.&nbsp;

Michael and Erika Melendrez, who live outside the secured area and don’t have a car, said they were still surprised by the extent of the lockdown.&nbsp;

Erika said she was shocked at the potential for local residents to be checked by security and the diverting of cars and transit.

Erika said she was shocked at the potential for local residents to be checked by security and the diverting of cars and transit.

“It’s ridiculous,” Erika said as she stepped into <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/10/metreon-pop-ups-balay-kreative-filipino-artists/">the Metreon</a> Target store. “It seems so controlling.”

Can this San Francisco mall be saved from the doom loop? This nonprofit is trying

“It’s ridiculous,” Erika said as she stepped into <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/10/metreon-pop-ups-balay-kreative-filipino-artists/">the Metreon</a> Target store. “It seems so controlling.”

Michael said he was surprised at the length of the lockdown, which lasts from Nov. 15 through the evening of Nov. 18.

Michael said he was surprised at the length of the lockdown, which lasts from Nov. 15 through the evening of Nov. 18.

“I thought it’d be like a day.” Michael said. “That’s a long time.”

“I thought it’d be like a day.” Michael said. “That’s a long time.”

Virendra Narayan, who lives in the SoMa Square Apartments near Third and Folsom streets, said he is worried about not being able to use his car. He needs to drive because he’s older and has limited mobility and said he has a doctor’s appointment during APEC that may be difficult to reschedule.

Virendra Narayan, who lives in the SoMa Square Apartments near Third and Folsom streets, said he is worried about not being able to use his car. He needs to drive because he’s older and has limited mobility and said he has a doctor’s appointment during APEC that may be difficult to reschedule.

“It’s going to make those [three] days more difficult,” Narayan said. “It’s a problem. I have to use my car.”

“It’s going to make those [three] days more difficult,” Narayan said. “It’s a problem. I have to use my car.”

Virendra Narayan, who is older and has limited mobility, depends on his car to access food and medical care and is worried about the ban on driving inside the APEC security perimeter.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/IMG_5898.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-214687"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Virendra Narayan, a senior citizen with limited mobility, depends on his car to access food and medical care and is worried about the ban on driving inside the APEC security perimeter.</figcaption></figure>

To accommodate local businesses inside the perimeter, commercial and other deliveries will be allowed between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. and must be screened at Pier 27 beforehand, U.S. Secret Service Special Agent-in-Charge Jeremy Brown said at an Oct. 18 press conference.

To accommodate local businesses inside the perimeter, commercial and other deliveries will be allowed between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. and must be screened at Pier 27 beforehand, U.S. Secret Service Special Agent-in-Charge Jeremy Brown said at an Oct. 18 press conference.

Businesses in the area told The Standard they had not received further details about how the APEC street closures would affect them, but many said that higher foot traffic from conference attendees is a boon for business.

Businesses in the area told The Standard they had not received further details about how the APEC street closures would affect them, but many said that higher foot traffic from conference attendees is a boon for business.

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/24/san-francisco-apec-anxiety-chinatown-restaurants/">APEC Anxiety Sweeps Chinatown as San Francisco Inspects, Shuts Down Restaurants</a>

APEC anxiety sweeps Chinatown as San Francisco inspects, shuts down restaurants

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/24/san-francisco-apec-anxiety-chinatown-restaurants/">APEC Anxiety Sweeps Chinatown as San Francisco Inspects, Shuts Down Restaurants</a>

The Fogo De Chão Brazilian steakhouse, feet away from the Moscone Center, expects plenty of customers during APEC.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/IMG_5862.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-214688"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Fogo de Chão Brazilian steakhouse, feet away from the Moscone Center, expects plenty of customers during APEC.</figcaption></figure>

Daniel Bertolete, general manager of the Fogo de Chão Brazilian steakhouse on Third and Howard streets, said he has not been briefed by corporate about how APEC will affect his restaurant, but said he hopes his restaurant gets lots of customers, as it typically does during conferences at Moscone Center.

Daniel Bertolete, general manager of the Fogo de Chão Brazilian steakhouse on Third and Howard streets, said he has not been briefed by corporate about how APEC will affect his restaurant, but said he hopes his restaurant gets lots of customers, as it typically does during conferences at Moscone Center.

“We tend to do really well during conferences with 20,000 to 40,000 people, which is what’s happening right now,” Bertolete said as a waiter carried a tower of skewered grilled beef past. “And [APEC] is happening right across the street.”

“We tend to do really well during conferences with 20,000 to 40,000 people, which is what’s happening right now,” Bertolete said as a waiter carried a tower of skewered grilled beef past. “And [APEC] is happening right across the street.”

It&#8217;s not just restaurants near the conference that will be affected by the heightened security.

It's not just restaurants near the conference that will be affected by the heightened security.

It&#8217;s not just restaurants near the conference that will be affected by the heightened security.

In recent weeks, inspectors from the San Francisco Department of Public Health have visited multiple Chinatown restaurants for routine inspections, shutting several down temporarily over health code violations and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/24/san-francisco-apec-anxiety-chinatown-restaurants/">causing a panic wave</a> in the community.

In recent weeks, inspectors from the San Francisco Department of Public Health have visited multiple Chinatown restaurants for routine inspections, shutting several down temporarily over health code violations and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/24/san-francisco-apec-anxiety-chinatown-restaurants/">causing a panic wave</a> in the community.

Correction: An earlier version of this article stated restrictions around the Moscone Center would last for six days. New information from APEC organizers and the U.S. Secret Service says restrictions will last for three days between Nov. 15 and Nov. 18.

Correction: An earlier version of this article stated restrictions around the Moscone Center would last for six days. New information from APEC organizers and the U.S. Secret Service says restrictions will last for three days between Nov. 15 and Nov. 18.

APEC shutdown worries San Francisco residents, business owners

George Kelly

Astrid Kane

With APEC’s calendar of meetings convening in a little more than a week, San Francisco is hoping to present its best face to the world. Not since the end of World War II has the city been so at the heart of world affairs.

With APEC’s calendar of meetings convening in a little more than a week, San Francisco is hoping to present its best face to the world. Not since the end of World War II has the city been so at the heart of world affairs.

But some community leaders in South of Market’s Filipino community have to confront an uncomfortable reality: Their neighborhood is the focal point for the conclave of world leaders and CEOs, and as such, it will be a warren of street closures, restrictions, security checkpoints and general disruption. This presents considerable challenges to seniors, non-English speakers and people with limited mobility, but it also means swallowing a rather bitter pill: welcoming a longstanding, pro-trade body whose convenings have sparked discontent in the Philippines and elsewhere.

But some community leaders in South of Market’s Filipino community have to confront an uncomfortable reality: Their neighborhood is the focal point for the conclave of world leaders and CEOs, and as such, it will be a warren of street closures, restrictions, security checkpoints and general disruption. This presents considerable challenges to seniors, non-English speakers and people with limited mobility, but it also means swallowing a rather bitter pill: welcoming a longstanding, pro-trade body whose convenings have sparked discontent in the Philippines and elsewhere.

Led by Raquel Redondiez, the executive director <a href="https://www.somapilipinas.org/">of the cultural district SOMA Pilipinas</a>, a group of activists spoke last week during public comment at the Board of Supervisors’ meeting. She was present in Manila in 1996, when the Philippines hosted APEC. The government rolled out the red carpet, she said, promising increases in the standard of living that were unevenly distributed among the country’s 110 million people.

Led by Raquel Redondiez, the executive director <a href="https://www.somapilipinas.org/">of the cultural district SOMA Pilipinas</a>, a group of activists spoke last week during public comment at the Board of Supervisors’ meeting. She was present in Manila in 1996, when the Philippines hosted APEC. The government rolled out the red carpet, she said, promising increases in the standard of living that were unevenly distributed among the country’s 110 million people.

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/29/apec-san-francisco-worries-residents/">At APEC Teach-In, San Francisco Residents Voice Concerns About Summit Impacts</a>

At APEC teach-in, San Francisco residents voice concerns about summit impacts

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/29/apec-san-francisco-worries-residents/">At APEC Teach-In, San Francisco Residents Voice Concerns About Summit Impacts</a>

“APEC is not about sustainability or shared prosperity. There will be no unions or farmers or Indigenous representatives at the APEC summit,” Redondiez told the board. “It will be all heads of states and billionaire CEOs who are there to increase their profits. Philippine President Bongbong Marcos, son of the late dictator, will be there to sell out the Philippines to the highest bidder.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“APEC is not about sustainability or shared prosperity. There will be no unions or farmers or Indigenous representatives at the APEC summit,” Redondiez told the board. “It will be all heads of states and billionaire CEOs who are there to increase their profits. Philippine President Bongbong Marcos, son of the late dictator, will be there to sell out the Philippines to the highest bidder.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Macroeconomics is one thing, but Redondiez believes that the situation at the local level will echo that dynamic. This extends even to APEC’s physical footprint. The Moscone Center sits squarely within SOMA Pilipinas—and, in fact, the conference’s rectangular-shaped security perimeter overlaps almost perfectly <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5b2c30b58f51305e3d641e81/t/606735a1bda56a5896a81fee/1617376673646/SOMAPilipinas_map2021.pdf">with the cultural district’s boundaries</a>.

Macroeconomics is one thing, but Redondiez believes that the situation at the local level will echo that dynamic. This extends even to APEC’s physical footprint. The Moscone Center sits squarely within SOMA Pilipinas—and, in fact, the conference’s rectangular-shaped security perimeter overlaps almost perfectly <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5b2c30b58f51305e3d641e81/t/606735a1bda56a5896a81fee/1617376673646/SOMAPilipinas_map2021.pdf">with the cultural district’s boundaries</a>.

Redondiez sent a letter to Aaron Peskin, president of the Board of Supervisors, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/24/san-francisco-lawmakers-want-relief-from-apec/">in support of a motion by Supervisor Connie Chan</a> that would allocate $10 million to mitigate APEC’s impacts on small businesses and residents in the vicinity of the Moscone Center.&nbsp;

San Francisco lawmakers urge mayor to relieve APEC pressures on city

Redondiez sent a letter to Aaron Peskin, president of the Board of Supervisors, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/24/san-francisco-lawmakers-want-relief-from-apec/">in support of a motion by Supervisor Connie Chan</a> that would allocate $10 million to mitigate APEC’s impacts on small businesses and residents in the vicinity of the Moscone Center.&nbsp;

The Standard has reached out to APEC’s media relations team for comment.

The Standard has reached out to APEC’s media relations team for comment.

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“There’s a lot of concern,” Redondiez told The Standard. “I was just in a meeting last night at the Children’s Creativity Museum [on Fourth Street], and a lot of residents in the area are hearing for the first time what’s happening.”

“There’s a lot of concern,” Redondiez told The Standard. “I was just in a meeting last night at the Children’s Creativity Museum [on Fourth Street], and a lot of residents in the area are hearing for the first time what’s happening.”

At that meeting, it became clear that many logistical points didn’t seem to have been communicated, she said. For example, a child care center that serves some 80 families will be closed down for several days.

At that meeting, it became clear that many logistical points didn’t seem to have been communicated, she said. For example, a child care center that serves some 80 families will be closed down for several days.

“The city and the Secret Service are telling people, ‘If you don’t have business here, stay away,’” Redondiez said. “And APEC is exclusive. It’s not like we’re invited!”&nbsp;

“The city and the Secret Service are telling people, ‘If you don’t have business here, stay away,’” Redondiez said. “And APEC is exclusive. It’s not like we’re invited!”&nbsp;

Redondiez said overtures to the government of the Philippines have met with silence.

Redondiez said overtures to the government of the Philippines have met with silence.

“SOMA Pilipinas reached out to the consulate saying [President Marcos’ delegation] should meet with the district, to see our challenges and our accomplishments. We haven’t heard a response,” she said. Consular officials “were just at our showcase of Filipino Indigenous dances that happened a couple Saturdays ago, so they’re definitely aware of our work.”&nbsp;

“SOMA Pilipinas reached out to the consulate saying [President Marcos’ delegation] should meet with the district, to see our challenges and our accomplishments. We haven’t heard a response,” she said. Consular officials “were just at our showcase of Filipino Indigenous dances that happened a couple Saturdays ago, so they’re definitely aware of our work.”&nbsp;

The issue may be especially delicate considering how a Hawaiian court held Marcos in contempt for flouting an order <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/02/world/asia/marcos-biden-philippines-china.html">to disclose details about his family’s wealth</a>. Marcos’ father, Ferdinand Marcos, led the Philippines with First Lady Imelda Marcos from 1965 until he was deposed in 1986 after facing widespread accusations of corruption. The Filipino consulate did not respond to The Standard’s requests for comment.

The issue may be especially delicate considering how a Hawaiian court held Marcos in contempt for flouting an order <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/02/world/asia/marcos-biden-philippines-china.html">to disclose details about his family’s wealth</a>. Marcos’ father, Ferdinand Marcos, led the Philippines with First Lady Imelda Marcos from 1965 until he was deposed in 1986 after facing widespread accusations of corruption. The Filipino consulate did not respond to The Standard’s requests for comment.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-philippines-hosted-apec-twice">The Philippines Hosted APEC—Twice</h2>

APEC, established in 1989, is a regional forum intended to promote economic integration. It has 21 member economies, which account for about 38% of the global population, nearly two-thirds of global GDP and half of all trade.

APEC, established in 1989, is a regional forum intended to promote economic integration. It has 21 member economies, which account for about 38% of the global population, nearly two-thirds of global GDP and half of all trade.

The 21 APEC members are Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, the U.S. and Vietnam.

The 21 APEC members are Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, the U.S. and Vietnam.

Anti APEC protestors clash with riot police as they attempt to get near the venue hosting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit of Leaders on November 19, 2015 in Manila, Philippines. Security has been beefed up as Asia Pacific leaders are meeting in Manila for a summit meant to forge international cooperation from trade to anti terrorism agreements overshadowed by the Paris attacks.  (Photo by Dondi Tawatao/Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/inlined03_apecfilipinocommunity_11022023.jpg?w=2500" alt="APEC" class="wp-image-218229"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Anti-APEC protestors clash with Philippine riot police as they attempt to get near the venue hosting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit on Nov. 19, 2015, in Manila.</figcaption></figure>

A signed poster of Brandon Lee with heartfelt messages from community members hangs on the wall of his Mission District apartment in San Francisco on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023. Brandon and other community members living in the Mission will be affected by the extra security and street closures from the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation. Brandon Lee, a community organizer and San Francisco native, returned to the Bay Area after he was hospitalized from gunshot wounds in the Philippines. Lee was red-tagged by the Philippines government and was shot in the back allegedly for his activism work in the country.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/inlined04_apecfilipinocommunity_11022023-27.jpg?w=2000" alt="APEC" class="wp-image-218230"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A signed poster of Brandon Lee with heartfelt messages from community members hangs on the wall of his Mission District apartment on Friday.</figcaption></figure>

Redondiez was in Manila when the Philippines hosted APEC in 1996, and San Francisco activist Brandon Lee was present when the Philippines hosted it the next time, in 2015. He had been working with Indigenous populations in Northern Luzon Province after the government liberalized the country’s mining industry.

Redondiez was in Manila when the Philippines hosted APEC in 1996, and San Francisco activist Brandon Lee was present when the Philippines hosted it the next time, in 2015. He had been working with Indigenous populations in Northern Luzon Province after the government liberalized the country’s mining industry.

“It allowed foreign mining corporations to reap 100% profit from plundering Indigenous people’s land,” Lee told The Standard. “Of course, I stood with these Indigenous communities protesting it, because it led to the destruction of their ancestral land and the destruction of the environment.”

“It allowed foreign mining corporations to reap 100% profit from plundering Indigenous people’s land,” Lee told The Standard. “Of course, I stood with these Indigenous communities protesting it, because it led to the destruction of their ancestral land and the destruction of the environment.”

The military responded by bombing villages and strafing them with artillery fire. During APEC in 2015, Lee and his compatriots protested at the mining companies’ headquarters and at Malacañang, the country’s equivalent of the White House, where they were met with police barricades and firehoses.

The military responded by bombing villages and strafing them with artillery fire. During APEC in 2015, Lee and his compatriots protested at the mining companies’ headquarters and at Malacañang, the country’s equivalent of the White House, where they were met with police barricades and firehoses.

On Aug. 6, 2019, after several years when Indigenous rights activists were surveilled, abducted or put on trial with allegedly fabricated evidence, Lee, who is Chinese American, was shot four times. He remains paralyzed from the neck down. <a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11832307/it-is-my-duty-to-continue-no-investigation-a-year-after-sf-activist-brandon-lee-was-shot-in-the-philippines">No investigation was ever undertaken.</a>

On Aug. 6, 2019, after several years when Indigenous rights activists were surveilled, abducted or put on trial with allegedly fabricated evidence, Lee, who is Chinese American, was shot four times. He remains paralyzed from the neck down. <a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11832307/it-is-my-duty-to-continue-no-investigation-a-year-after-sf-activist-brandon-lee-was-shot-in-the-philippines">No investigation was ever undertaken.</a>

That occurred under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte, but Lee sees little difference between the policies of that government and the current one. The fact that San Francisco’s Filipino American community is bearing the brunt of APEC sickens him, he said.

That occurred under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte, but Lee sees little difference between the policies of that government and the current one. The fact that San Francisco’s Filipino American community is bearing the brunt of APEC sickens him, he said.

“We established the U.N. in San Francisco. We’re supposed to be promoting human rights,” he said. “But with this exclusionary zone, they’ll be training their guns at us. … The U.S. should not be hosting APEC because of all the human rights violations that come out of APEC policies.”

“We established the U.N. in San Francisco. We’re supposed to be promoting human rights,” he said. “But with this exclusionary zone, they’ll be training their guns at us. … The U.S. should not be hosting APEC because of all the human rights violations that come out of APEC policies.”

San Francisco Mayor London Breed speaks at City Hall on Tuesday, Oct 24, 2023. The mayor gave a press conference about the upcoming APEC summit.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/inlined05_apecfilipinocommunity_11022023.jpg?w=2500" alt="APEC" class="wp-image-218231"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Mayor London Breed speaks at City Hall on Oct. 24. The mayor gave a press conference about the upcoming APEC summit.</figcaption></figure>

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What international summit? APEC becomes prime time for San Francisco’s partygoers

APEC shutdown worries San Francisco residents, business owners

As APEC looms, San Francisco’s Filipino American community criticizes summit’s legacy

Anti-APEC, anti-China protesters block traffic on San Francisco streets

APEC protesters hang banner over Bay Bridge, kicking off week of protests in San Francisco