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Retrieval of ballot boxes on Marcos poll protest begins by Dana
SioSon AJPress
the supreme Court (sC), sitting as the Presidential electoral tribunal (Pet), has begun the retrieval of ballot boxes in the province of Camarines sur on tuesday, January 23. Camarines sur is among the three pilot provinces tagged by former senator ferdinand “Bongbong”
marcos Jr. in his electoral protest against Philippine Vice President maria leonor “leni” robredo. Ballot boxes and other poll documents were retrieved from 538 precincts in the following municipalities: Cabusao, sipocot, lupi, ragay, Del Gallego, libmanan, Pamplona, Pasacao, san fernando, milaor, Gainza and minalabac.
“the [sC] has also deployed security detail. so far, we don’t see any problem,” said Bernadette sardillo, counsel for robredo. “each ballot box will be inspected because the retrieval team here has to make sure that all the election paraphernalia that will be sent to manila will be complete,” she added. Based on the order from the sC,
the ballot retrieval process in Camarines sur will continue until friday, January 26. the ballot boxes will then be delivered at the sC-Court of Appeals Gymnasium in manila for the recount set in february. Concerning the transport of the ballot boxes to manila, sardillo
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RECOUNT ROLLS. Ballot boxes are retrieved by election officials in Camarines Sur, one of the three pilot provinces identified by former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for recount in connection with his electoral protest. Marcos believes he won the 2016 vice-presidential election and that Vice President Maria Leonor ‘Leni’ Robredo benefited from massive electronic cheating. ManilaTimes.net photo by Llanesca T. Panti
Duterte tells troops: ‘Shoot me if I become a dictator’
USA
DATELINE 7 Fil-Am medical missionaries dead in Cebu after car crash
by Dana
SioSon AJPress
from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
A WeeKenD getaway in Cebu quickly turned into a tragedy after seven filipinoAmerican medical missionaries were killed in a car crash in the nearby town of Alegria last weekend. on saturday, January 20, a group of 10 physicians and nurses from the United states were in the town of oslob, located 73 miles south of Cebu City. the group was on its way to Kawasan falls in Badian that morning when the driver of their rented toyota Grandia van reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. the car then crashed into a roadside mahogany tree between 11 a.m. and noon, less than 10 miles away from the destination. According to local officials, five passengers were killed on the spot while the other five passengers were transported to hospitals; two died on the way to the hospital. three passengers sustained severe injuries while the driver — identified as 24-year-old Gilbert dela Cruz — survived with minor injuries. Among those killed included Dr. nunilo rubio, 74, of Chicago; Aurora m. Gagni, 63,
INSPECTION. President Rodrigo Duterte examines firearms recovered from communist rebels on the sidelines of the establishment of the TienDA Para sa mga Bayani at Camp General Manuel Yan in Mawab Sr. in Mawab Compostela Valley Province on Monday, January 22. Joining the president are 10th Infantry Division Commander Major General Noel Clement, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence Go. Malacañang photo by Ace Morandante
by Dana
SioSon AJPress
US Congress passes bill to end gov’t shutdown
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Duterte denies hand in pork barrel claims against ‘friend’ Drilon
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After receiving backlash for allowing the government to shut down on friday, January 19, a bipartisan group of United states Congress members presented a bill on monday, January 22 that would reopen the government and allow thousands of furloughed federal employees to return to work. members of Congress were to put together a spending package by midnight on friday, but due to disagreements with certain bills and a refusal by senate Democrats to support a stopgap funding measure to extend the deadline, the shutdown went into effect. through bargaining with other Congress members behind closed doors (and knowing that the repercussions of a shut down worsen as time goes on), key lawmakers on Capitol hill voted overwhelmingly on monday to break the filibuster and reopen the government. “should we have ever shut down the government? Absolutely not,” said senator Joe manchin iii (D-WV), who was a leader in negotiating a way out from the shutdown. senate Democrats relented to joining the republicans to allow the passage of a
PresiDent rodrigo Duterte has told the Armed forces of the Philippines (AfP) and the Philippine national Police (PnP) to shoot him if he becomes a dictator or stays in power beyond his term expiration in 2022. the president made the remark in his speech during an army base visit on monday, January 22, in Compostela Valley province. “Kapag ako sumobra sa aking termino, isang araw lang (if i extend my term of office, even for a day), i am now asking the [AfP] and the PnP not to allow me or anybody else to mess up with the Constitution,” Duterte said. the president further stressed that it is both the military and the police’s “solemn duty” to “protect the Constitution and the people.” “Kaya ako ‘pag sumobra, gusto kong mag-diktador, barilin ninyo ako. hindi ako nagbobola (if i overstay and wanted to become a dictator, shoot me, i am not joking),” he added.
Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon
Inquirer.net photo
PhiliPPine President rodrigo Duterte has denied that he had anything to do with the allegations tagging senate minority leader franklin Drilon in the multibillionpeso Priority Development Assistance fund (PDAf), also known as the pork barrel scam. speaking before his departure to india on Wednesday, January 24, Duterte said he would not plot against Drilon as he considers the veteran lawmaker his “friend.”
“senator Drilon, if i talked to somebody urging a case against you sa PDAf, bring that person in my presence and i will resign because you are my friend,” the president said. Duterte further stressed that it is not his “style” to run after politicians. “it is not in my system. it is not in my style na maghabol ng (it’s not my style to run after)… magdala ka ng tao dito kung sinong inutusan ko ‘yang sa (Bring me whoever i ordered over that)
PDAf,” he added. Duterte made the remark after businesswoman Janet limnapoles, who is also accused as the “mastermind” of the PDAf scam, revealed in a television interview that she provided funds for Drilon’s campaign. During her interview with erwin tulfo over state-run radyo Pilipinas on monday, January 22, napoles claimed that she gave at least P5 million to the senator’s campaign kitty in 2010. tulfo is a
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PH formally turns down P380-M EU aid Filipina accused of passport fraud in Las Vegas by Dana
SioSon AJPress
the Philippine government has formally rejected assistance projects amounting to at least P380 million or 6.1 million euros being offered by the european Union (eU), according to eU Ambassador to the Philippines franz Jessen. Jessen made the confirmation on Wednesday, January 24, during the weekly Kapihan sa manila Bay news forum. According to him, the Philippine government has rejected the trade related technical Assistance Project Phase four (trtA-4) “at the end of the past year.” “it was formalized in the sense that we had, for example, the trtA, EU Ambassador to the Philippines Franz Jensen Inquirer.net photo
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by Rae
ann VaRona AJPress
A 41-year-old filipina may face up to 20 years in jail if proven guilty after she was arrested for allegedly forging iDs and passports in las Vegas. the woman, who authorities identified as rachelle miclat, was found to have had in her house an “active forgery lab” complete with printing equipment, laminating machines, ink, and multiple forged passports and iDs, according to a report by the filipino Channel’s “Balitang America.” Authorities said a nevada driver’s license with the alias name “rachelle tylo” was also found in her house and is being investigated. Bail for miclat has been set at $20,000. the U.s. passport is the most valuable identity document in the world, accord-
Rachelle Miclat Photo courtesy of Las Vegas Metropolitan Police
ing to the U.s. Bureau of Diplomatic security (Ds), which has been investigat-
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January 25-31, 2018 • LaS VEGaS aSIan JOurnaL
Retrieval of ballot boxes... PAGE A1
said the SC has given assurance that the documents will be secured. “There will be 31 Special Action Forces who will be deployed, and another 31 from the security detail of the Supreme Court. The transport will be by land, because
boarding it in a plane would be expensive,” she said. Marcos has accused Robredo of benefiting from “massive electoral fraud, anomalies and irregularities” during the vice presidential election in 2016. Apart from Camarines Sur, Marcos also listed Iloilo and Negros
From The FronT Page
Oriental as the best provinces where he could prove the irregularities alleged in his protest. The PET has yet to release the retrieval schedules for the remaining two pilot provinces. Robredo won the vice presidential race by just 263,473 votes more than Marcos. n
Duterte tells troops: ‘Shoot me if I become... PAGE A1 Duterte had repeatedly said in the past that he has no intention of going beyond his six-year term, which is set to end on June 30, 2022. Earlier this month, Duterte’s allies in Congress raised the possibility of extending the president’s term as part of the proposed shift to a federal form of government. But even if extending the president’s term would be allowed in the new Constitution, Malacañang clarified that Duterte is already averse to the idea. Rather than extending his term, Malacañang claimed that Duterte prefers to step down ahead of the expiration of his tenure. Sison ‘stuck in history’ In the same speech, Duterte also scoffed at Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chair Jose Maria “Joma”
Sison, who recently urged the youth to hold a mass protest against the supposed looming dictatorship under the present administration. “Sison said I should see a doctor and have my head examined. Hey, Sison, if you were bright, you should have become president already,” Duterte said. The CPP founder on Sunday, January 21, called for the youth to imitate the riots of the “First Quarter Storm” (FQS) of 1970 against the Duterte administration, referring to the series of heavy demonstrations that led to the late President Ferdinand Marcos’ declaration of martial law in 1972. In an interview with Philippine Daily Inquirer on Sunday, January 21, Sison said the youth “should launch huge mass marches and rallies in the National Capital Region and in the provinces, like during the First
Quarter Storm (FQS) of 1970.” “With the signal act of the student youth, the rest of the people — workers, the peasants, women, youth of other sectors, cultural workers, professionals and religious — will participate in the mass-protest movement,” he added. But Malacañang downplayed Sison’s call, saying the CPP founder was “stuck” in the past. “Again, we don’t attach too much importance to Joma Sison. I hope he has enough grandchildren to heed this call,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a briefing. Roque continued, “The problem with Joma Sison is he is stuck in history. He never moved beyond the First Quarter Storm.” Sison has been in self-exile in the Netherlands since 1987. In December last year, Duterte also classified the CPP and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), as “terrorists” following the termination of peace negotiations between the government and the communist group. n
LOVELY BUT DEADLY. Mayon volcano again spewed giant columns of ash on Tuesday, January 23, as local officials scrambled to relocate thousands of civilians living inside the extended 9-kilometer danger zone. The wider danger zone will entail the relocation of residents in the town of Camalig. ManilaTimes.net photo by Rhaydz Barcia
Duterte denies hand in pork barrel...
PAGE A1 supporter of Duterte. But Drilon has denied receiving funds from Napoles, branding her claim as “harassment.” “We deny having received any campaign contribution from Napoles,” Drilon said. “We will not further comment on such obviously fake news intended to harass the opposition.” The senator also added that his Statements of Contributions and Expenditures filed at the Commission on Elections were open to public scrutiny. Reacting to Duterte’s statements, Drilon thanked the president as he expressed hope that they would remain “friends” despite their disagreements on mat-
ters of policy. “I remain grateful for, and acknowledge, the support the president gave me, as mayor of Davao City, in all my election campaigns. I hope we remain friends. He has my full respect,” the Senate minority leader said. In an earlier statement, Malacañang also denied that the Duterte administration had something to do with allegations against Drilon but said that the Office of the Ombudsman and the Department of Justice (DOJ) should conduct an investigation into the matter. “The Constitution in providing for accountability of public officers is the legal basis for the relevant government agency to conduct an investigation,” Presidential
Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement on Tuesday, January 23. “I would hope that the Ombudsman on its own will conduct its probe and I think the Department of Justice also on its own should conduct its own probe, based on the statement,” he added. Describing Napoles as the “central figure” in the pork barrel scam, Roque further remarked that she should have evidence to support her claim. “Obviously Janet Lim-Napoles is the central figure in this scam, let her speak, and I’m sure in addition to what she has to say, she would have physical evidence to back up whatever it is that she alleges,” he said. n
PAGE A1 a registered nurse from Orland Park, Ill.; husband and wife Reynaldo and Diane Pascual of White Plains, NY; Joseph and Juvela Huang and Berniti Rojas, according to Inquirer. The three passengers treated for injuries were Dr. Rubio’s wife Dr. Elenita Rubio and husband and wife Fred and Nora Tsai of Chicago. The traveling group were a part of 48 volunteers of an annual medical mission organized by the Philippine Medical Association of Chicago (PMAC) and it’s Women’s Auxiliary that was expected to begin on Monday, January 22 in Camiguin Island.
Once a year, the volunteers help treat thousands of povertystricken patients and bring along dozens of balikbayan boxes of medical supplies and medicine. Many of those who passed away were respected professionals in the medical world and had partaken in past PMAC mission trips. In an interview, Dalisay Villalon, a registered nurse and past president of PMAC Auxiliary expressed sorrow for the lives lost and honored them for their efforts in helping the less fortunate. “The death of these seven volunteers shocks me to no end,” Villalon said. “I [had] to double check what I read online. Sadly, it
shows the volatility of man’s life, but our desire to serve the poor and the sick should continue as it will be this year for the PMAC despite this tragedy. The missionaries will continue healing even as we mourn those who passed on.” According to Alegria Chief of Police Efren Diaz, dela Cruz admitted to falling asleep at the wheel, but he denied drug usage. Additionally, he said that he only had an hour’s sleep before he was to drive the travelers early the next morning. Dela Cruz is currently in custody awaiting charges against him for reckless driving that resulted in multiple homicides and injury. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)
Filipina accused of passport... 7 Fil-Am medical missionaries dead in... PAGE A1 ing passport and visa fraud since 1916. A U.S. passport establishes American citizenship and allows holders access to over 160 countries in the world visa-free or with visa on arrival. According to DS, passport and visa crimes are federal crimes and those found guilty are punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. The prison sentence is increased to 15 years if the offense is connected to drug trafficking, and 20 years if connected to terrorism. n
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PH formally turns down P380-M... PAGE A1 a document that actually had to be signed by the end of the year. And that has been returned to us unsigned,” the EU ambassador told reporters. He said the Philippine government raised objections to areas of “rule of law,” “democracy,” and “human rights” cited in the TRTA documentation.
Apart from the TRTA-4, the EU ambassador added that the Philippine government is also about to reject another P2.4 billion to 39 million euros in aid for sustainable energy projects. The Philippines earlier said it will not accept foreign aid that comes with conditionalities that will affect country’s sovereignty as part of its independent foreign
policy. “For me it’s a bit sad that after 30 years plus of development cooperation, we suddenly get into this situation. And the independence of Philippine foreign policy – I’m still struggling a bit to understand how we are interfering in that,” Jessen said. He also noted that the conditions attached to EU grants “are not specifically for the Philippines” but for the EU’s cooperation “with all countries in the world.” Following the Philippines’ decision to turn down the aid grant, the ambassador said the EU respects the country’s decision. “We respect the decision. It is important for us that we don’t have misunderstanding. It’s, at the end of the day, for them to decide,” he said. Asia-EU meeting invite During the forum, Jessen also disclosed that the bloc has sent an invitation for Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, January 23 to visit Europe and attend the upcoming Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM). The ASEM, which is slated in October this year, is a dialogue forum aiming “to foster dialogue and cooperation between Asia and Europe.” “He’s not been to Europe, and I think he’s actually never been to Europe, and when you think about the importance of the EUPhilippine relationship, it is probably starting to be noticeable that we haven’t had a visit from him,” Jessen said. The EU ambassador expressed the belief that after Duterte visit in Europe, he will come back in the Philippines “with a more positive understanding” of the EU. “So I would very much like him to go there and maybe also to develop his understanding of Europe and what we’re doing in Europe. We are not spending all our time criticizing the Philippines,” he added. Duterte, who assumed the presidency in 2016, had repeatedly lashed out at the EU for raising human rights concerns over his controversial campaign against illegal drugs, accusing the bloc of interfering in the Philippines’ domestic affairs. Jessen said Malacañang has yet to issue a response to the invite. n
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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 25-31, 2018
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Las Vegas shooter methodically planned to ‘thwart’ investigation, new documents say Information on Filipina girlfriend included
by Rae
REMEMBERING SAF 44. Philippine flags are displayed at the People Power Monument in Quezon City in preparation for the third death anniversary of the 44 Special Action Force (SAF 44) police commandos who were killed while carrying out an operation to capture a terrorist in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on January 25, 2015. PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan
US Congress passes bill to end... PAGE A1 short-term spending package that would provide government funding until February 8. Democrats agreed to the terms as long as Republican leaders promised a solution for undocumented youth, known as DREAMers. In other words, the GOP had to commit to finding a legislative solution for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which was terminated by the Trump administration last September. The bipartisan group of senators that ended the gridlock included more than 20 lawmakers that met behind closed doors. Among the Democrats included Sens. Tim Kaine of Virginia and newly-elected Doug Jones of Alabama. The Republicans included Trump critics like Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Bob Corker of Tennessee. “Shutting down the government was inappropriate, but I am encouraged by the bipartisan discussions that have occurred over the past few days. I will continue working with my colleagues on a solution to the number of challenges still before us,” Corker tweeted on Monday. For some, the sound of bipartisanship to coalesce a solution to a problem in an age where partisan politics can muddy legislative progress was a sign of good things to come. Although the Senate’s vote was a short-term solution to the shutdown, some don’t agree with the
Democrats’ decision to extend the funding, arguing that putting off the DACA fix prolongs the uncertainty felt by many undocumented youth, 800,000 of whom received benefits from DACA. Legal and civil rights organization Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Los Angeles denounced the vote as it extends the state of uncertainty so many DREAMers have been in since DACA’s termination. “A number of Republicans have continuously promised to provide a resolution for DACA recipients within the negotiations about a government spending bill,” Advancing Justice-LA wrote in a statement. “Today, a resolution for DACA recipients slipped through our fingers when Senators got cold feet.” Advancing Justice-LA also criticized Congress’ inability to pass the DREAM Act — which would provide DREAMers a pathway to citizenship — despite overwhelming support for it. “The plan to bring an immigration bill to a vote as standalone legislation in the Senate is not guaranteed, and it does not include a path forward for the House,” Advancing Justice-LA added. “The majority of Americans support a solution for DACA recipients and we have the votes in both houses to get the DREAM Act passed into law, [but] the president and Speaker [Paul] Ryan continue to obstruct a solution.” Also, a promise guaranteed in
the stopgap measure was a longterm solution for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), a bipartisan-created public health insurance program for children of low-earning families that was not reauthorized by Congress in 2017. The bill passed on Monday guarantees six years of federal funding for CHIP, which was ended on Sept. 30, 2017 when lawmakers failed to reauthorize it for the first time in two decades, which outraged public health professionals. Approximately 1.3 million children in California are enrolled in public health programs through CHIP, the highest enrollment rate of any state that runs out of funding this year, as previously reported by the Asian Journal. Additionally, about 3 out of 4 of those children are children of color. The program provided a whole host of medical services for underprivileged children: routine check-ups, immunizations, emergency services, prescriptions and inpatient and outpatient hospital care to name a few. In addition to providing coverage for children, CHIP also provides for more than 370,000 pregnant women a year. This measure relieves some stress for states (who share responsibility for funding CHIP), many of which have been depleting their remaining funds for their state’s CHIPs.
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ann VaRona AJPress
RECENTLy released court documents regarding the 2017 Las Vegas shooting provide new information on the gunman’s activities prior to carrying out what became the deadliest mass shooting in modern history. The documents, however, do not provide a motive as to why gunman Stephen Paddock fired bullets over the 22,000 attendees of the Route 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas, killing 58 people and injuring over 500. The shooting began at around 10:08 p.m. on October 1, 2017 over the country music festival which was commencing its third and last day of weekend festivities. Country singer Jason Aldean, who was headlining the festival, was rushed offstage mid-song while many witnesses looked up expecting fireworks. Police later identified the shooter as 64-year-old Paddock, who fired a storm of bullets from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, about a quarter-mile away from the Las Vegas Village venue. One warrant in the over 300 pages of released warrants and affidavits described how Paddock “destroyed or tried to hide digital media devices.” According to investigators, Paddock used anonymous communication devices such as a prepaid cell phone, and used a “level of sophistication which is commonly found in mass casualty events.” “Paddock planned the attack meticulously and took many methodical steps to avoid detection of his plot and to thwart the eventual law enforcement that would follow,” said the FBI. Three of the shooter’s cellphones were found in the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino room, according to search warrants approved by judges after the shooting. Two of the phones were searched by investigators, but the third was unable to be unlocked. Email exchanges between two similarly named email addresses were also revealed in the documents as having been sent on July 6, 2017 — about two months before the shooting.
Stephen Paddock
Marilou Danley Photos courtesy of Las Vegas Metropolitan Police
The affidavit regarding the email reads: “...[centralpark1@ live.com] sent an email to centralpark4804@gmail.com which read, ‘try an ar before u buy. we have huge selection. located in the las vegas area,’ Later the day, an email was received back from centralpark4804@gmail. com to [centralpark1@live.com] that read, ‘we have a wide variety of optics and ammunition to try.’ And lastly, [centralpark1@ live.com sent an email to centralpark4804@gmail.com that read, ‘for a thrill try out bumpfire ar’s with a 100 round magazine.’ Investigators believe these communications may have been related to the eventual attack that occurred at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.” The affidavit added that the “investigators have been unable to figure out why Stephen Paddock would be exchanging messages related to weapons that were used in the attack between two of his email accounts.” It is possible that one of the email accounts was being controlled by someone else, said the affidavit, adding that the FBI would need to identify the person. A search warrant would “lead investigators to determine the full scope of Stephen Paddock’s plan.” New details on Filipina girlfriend Marilou Danley — Paddock’s 62-year-old Filipina girlfriend who holds an Australian passport — had told investigators she had no knowledge of his plan when meeting with FBI back in October of last year. Danley had been in the Philippines during the shooting, where
Paddock sent $100,000. Defense attorney Matthew Lombard said then that she was not expecting the money. New court documents reveal that Danley made changes to her Facebook’s personal and privacy settings at around 12:30 a.m. — approximately two-anda-half hours after Paddock’s first fire at 10:08 p.m. By 2:46 a.m., Danley’s Facebook account had been deleted, according to the documents. Paddock’s name had not been officially released to the public until around 3:30 a.m. Danley had also told investigators that her fingerprints may be found on Paddock’s ammunition, which investigators did find. She said that she sometimes helped Paddock load magazines, but why she was handling the weapons was not clear from the documents. An affidavit identifies Danley as “the most likely person who aided or abetted Stephen Paddock based on her informing law enforcement that her fingerprints would likely be found on the ammunition used during the attack.” An agent wrote in a filing that Danley — who remained “adamant” that she was unaware of Paddock’s plans — has “corroborated much what had been previously deduced by investigators.” No “conclusive evidence” of Danley being involved in the massacre has been suggested, but she does remain the “subject of intensive review.” Agents also said that Danley’s
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January 25-31, 2018 • LaS VEGaS aSIan JOurnaL
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Pilot from California gets life in prison for buying and raping Filipino children by Rae
ann VaRona AJPress
A SACRAMENTO man was sentenced to life in prison Tuesday, January 23, after being convicted for buying Filipino children for pornography and sex — federal prosecutors described the case as “lurid, willful, and disturbing.” Prosecutors said Michael Carey Clemans, 57, was found guilty in September of attempted travel and travel with intent to engage in sexual conduct, buying children, and conspiracy to travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. “His true plan was to find girls, virgins, and then go have sex with them,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Andre Espinosa on Tuesday as reported by the Associated Press. “A 57-year-old man doesn’t have sex with a seven year old girl — he rapes her,” Espinosa added. Clemans’ defense attorney Daniel Olmos argued for reconsideration of Clemans’ sentence for helping authorities capture co-conspirators, but U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez Mendez
described Clemans as a “danger particularly to children” and said Clemans’ crimes were greater than his assistance. “He has taken away the childhood of those victims,” said Mendez. “Clemans committed unspeakable acts in pursuit of his sexual obsessions with children,” said U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of California McGregor Scott on Tuesday. “He is a sophisticated offender who leveraged technology and the economic disadvantages of the Filipino children he targeted to commit his crimes.” According to court documents, Clemans began conspiring with a woman in the Philippines starting June 2014, to produce child pornography. At the time, Clemans was residing in Bangkok, Thailand where he worked as an airline pilot. In April 2015, Clemans returned to Sacramento but continued chatting with the Filipina woman online where Clemans discussed ways to get and rape minor girls, including orphans and typhoon victims. “Clemans instructed the Fili-
pino woman on how to find vulnerable victims, directing her to look for orphans and victims of typhoons,” said court documents. His Filipina co-conspirators Lyan Tandeg and Shellina Atad, were arrested and charged in November of 2015 for trafficking and child pornography. Tandeg was paid nearly $6,000 to buy photography equipment and conduct sexually explicit photoshoots of the young victims. Victims were as young as seven years old. “He gave her [Tandeg] explicit instructions on how to photograph their naked bodies so he could determine which ones would come to the Philippines to rape,” read documents. Clemans also indicated in the chats that he was “particularly interested in very young virgins.” Over 27,000 child pornography photos were found on Clemans computer. According to the Associated Press, investigators were able to find three of the photographed children who were aged 7, 9, and 10. Prosecutors brought them to Sacramento to testify at Clemans’ trial. n
Photos by Cheryl Diaz Meyer
Fil-Am dominates US photo contest for Rohingya crisis by aRic
Sy cua ManilaTimes.net
A FILIPINO-American freelance photojournalist topped a photo competition in the U.S. recently with her heart-tugging stills on Rohingya refugees. Cheryl Diaz Meyer dominated the competition, “2018 Eyes of History” under the category “International News” by the White House News Photographers Association (WHNPA). Meyer’s photo showing refugee tion of our national sovereignty,” Anwara Nurhassan taking a boat Reyes said. from Bangladesh to a refugee Bayan said the government camp on October 3, 2017, won should break its silence about first place. Operation Pacific Eagle. Photos of a Rohingya boy cry“Was the U.S. also the one that ing to his father and of a refugee recommended the extension of carrying his wife to a rickshaw martial law to allow unhampered finished second and third respecU.S. intervention and basing? tively. What are the terms of reference Two of Meyer’s photos consistfor armed U.S. troops conducting ing of two men carrying a 60-yearoperations in Mindanao? The Philippine government has declared victory in Marawi, so why allow continued U.S. military intervention?” he asked. The group said the Senate foreign relations committee should look into this new U.S. operation as it did previously during the term of the late senator Miriam Defensor Santiago. “The Senate should look into how the U.S. is circumventing the treaty requirements on foreign basing through its so-called overseas contingency operations that deploy unlimited number of troops for unspecified activities for an undetermined period of time,” Reyes said. n
PH gov’t urged: Disclose terms of US counterterror operation by RhoDina
VillanueVa Philstar.com
MILITANT group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) yesterday urged the Duterte government to disclose the terms of “Operation Pacific Eagle: Philippines,” a new counterterror operation of the United States in the country, which reportedly aims to maintain active U.S. military presence in the Asia-Pacific region. The group said the operation was launched by the U.S. government in September 2017, yet the government has kept silent about it. Bayan said the U.S. special operations command listed the Philippines among its priorities for military intervention along with Afghanistan, Africa, Iraq, Libya, Syria, Somalia and Yemen. In a testimony before the U.S. Senate armed services committee on July 17, U.S. joint chief of staff vice chairman Gen. Paul Selva said the U.S. should consider restarting a named military operation in the Philippines similar to Operation Enduring Freedom in order to
counter the Islamic State. The Wall Street Journal reported the U.S. has embarked on an overseas contingency operation in the Philippines as early as September last year or two months after defense officials sought a named-operation in the country. Bayan secretary-general Renato Reyes said the report that the U.S. is again engaged in a namedoperation similar to Operation Enduring Freedom-Philippines in 2002, raises a lot of questions on the involvement of the U.S. in direct combat role in the Philippines. Reyes said this was a flagrant violation of the Philippine Constitution. He said the last time the U.S. launched its operations, it also resulted in the permanent presence of 600 U.S. troops in Mindanao for more than 15 years. “U.S. uninterrupted presence of US forces in Mindanao — engaged in various unspecified activities including direct combat participation — is a gross viola-
old refugee to the southernmost part of Bangladesh and an 8-yearold boy with burn wounds in his face while at a refugee camp were also cited. All five photos were posted on Meyer’s website, which has a complete portofolio of photos of the Rohingya crisis. On her Twitter and Instagram accounts, Meyer expressed her gratitude to the WHNPA. “Thank you to the judges of the White House News Photographers Association for this immense honor. I’ve never been awarded an entire category in any competition, and I’m deeply moved,” she wrote. “I hope this increases awareness for the plight of the Rohingya refugees, who Bangladesh wants to repatriate to Myanmar.” Based on Meyer’s personal website, she was born in Quezon
Cheryl Diaz Meyer
City on February 25, 1968 and moved to the US at the age of 13. She studied at the University of Minnesota-Duluth and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in German. She is best known for her coverage of the 2003 Iraq War and documentation regarding women adversity around the globe. She was given the Pulitzer Prize in 2004, along with colleague David Leeson for Breaking News Photography. In 2006, while working at the Dallas Morning News as a senior staff photographer, she again won the Pulitzer Prize, with her team, for Breaking News Photography, for their coverage of Hurricane Katrina. Her photos have been exhibited worldwide, including at the the Newseum’s Pulitzer Prize Exhibit in Washington, DC. n
Roach: Beating super featherweight champ Lomachenko not impossible for Pacquiao by Dino
MaRagay Philstar.com
A 39-year-old Manny Pacquiao defeating a prime Vasyl Lomachenko is not out of the question, as far as trainer Freddie Roach is concerned. But it will take 100 percent of Pacquiao’s attention for the Filipino icon to pull it off. Speaking recently to Steve Kim of BoxingScene.com, the multiawarded trainer said he believes Pacquiao can overcome a tough fight with the 29-year-old Lomachenko, provided he gives up his other job as senator. “But the thing is we need a real good training camp and we need him to get out of being a senator for a little while,” Roach told Kim. “I said, ‘Manny, this is too tough a sport to have another job’,” he added. Pacquiao has set his sights on Lomachenko, the reigning WBO super featherweight champion and currently considered as among the top pound-for-pound
fighters in the world. That fight though isn’t expected to happen anytime soon for various reasons, including the fact that Lomachenko’s camp isn’t keen on the boxer moving up two divisions for a welterweight showdown with Pacquiao. Nevertheless, many observers think that at this point, the Ukrainian star may be too much for Pacquiao, who is already in the twilight of his career. Pacquiao hasn’t fought since losing last year to Australian Jeff Horn, whom many thought the Filipino star should have easily dealt with. Age, however, has clearly caught up with Pacquiao as he struggled with Horn’s size and rough style. The more skilled Lomachenko is clearly a different animal, and Roach said Pacquiao has to work extra hard for a chance to neutralize the young champion’s speed and footwork. “You’ve got to concentrate and be really, really prepared for this fight and you have to be
Vasyl Lomachenko
Philstar.com photo
aggressive in this fight because [Lomachenko] does have great footwork but if you press him hard enough and so forth,” Roach continued. “You take that game away from him and he’s beatable.” n
Las Vegas shooter methodically planned... PAGE A3 email could “lead investigators to determine the full scope of Stephen Paddock’s plan and Marilou Danley’s possible involvement.” Information on Instagram accounts believed to be connected to Danley were also requested. In October, Danley also told investigators that she was concerned over Paddock’s mental
stability. Investigations revealed that Paddock may have been treated for “unidentified medical conditions.” Clark County Sheriff Joseph Lombardo cited a preliminary report that included details on Paddock’s “disturbing” search history which included ballistic and SWAT tactics. Child pornography photographs were also recovered, according to the
report. In the report, Danley described Paddock acting different when they stayed at the resort early September. She said Paddock had become “distant” and “germaphobic.” Furthermore, Paddock’s primary doctor said he might have been bipolar but that Paddock refused to take antidepressants or talk about it. n
US Congress passes bill to end... PAGE A3
Federal funding — which is an estimated $124 billion — will continue through 2023. For the first two years, federal funding will pay for at least 88 percent of the program’s expenses in all states; after that, the federal government’s share will decrease over two years. What happens when the government shuts down? Hearing of the government shutting down rightfully terrified people across the nation. The shutdown is over, but the frenzy still begs the question: what does it mean when the government shuts down? The government shuts down
when Congress and the White House fail to pass a spending package that funds government operations and agencies across the country. When the government shuts down, only “essential” federal employees are to report for work while “non-essential” employees will be placed on furlough. For example, if the government shutdown had persisted, more than half of workers from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) were to be placed on furlough. Most workers from other federal offices — like the Dept. of Education, National Transportation Safety Board and Consumer
Product Safety Commission — were furloughed. Over the weekend, tourists hoping to visit the Statue of Liberty in New York weren’t able to visit because the national landmark was one of the federally-funded sites closed by the shutdown. The furlough continues until Congress can agree on a bill that would extend government funding. The last time the government shut down was in Oct. 2013 when for 16 days, the government shutdown largely impacted government employees, agencies and federally-funded buildings and landmarks. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)
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Dateline PAlvarez hiliPPines on zero budget threat: ‘It was a joke’ by Dana
SioSon AJPress
In this Feb. 27, 2015 photo provided by fisherman Renato Etac, Chinese Coast Guard members approach Etac’s fellow fishermen near Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. More than once, the Chinese approached Etac’s boat and pointed their rifles at him, but he says he knew they would not fire and start a war. Philstar.com photo
Palace defends decision to grant China research access in PH Rise by Dana
SioSon AJPress
Malacañang on Tuesday, January 23, has defended its earlier decision allowing china to carry out research in the Philippine Rise, formerly referred to as Benham Rise, which is located off Eastern luzon. In a press briefing, Palace Spokesperson Harry Roque pointed out that “you do not need a permit for any Filipino corporation to conduct scientific investigation in Benham Rise because it is ours so that’s not something that a consent has to be given by the government.” But according to Roque, Filipinos have no financial capability to pursue such costly research in the Philippine Rise. “[n]o one has applied. and no one can do it because, apparently, it’s capital intensive,” the Palace official said. Malacañang also said that china was qualified and passed the guidelines set by the Philippines. among these guidelines, according to the Philippine government, is that Filipino researchers must be allowed to join chinese researchers during explorations.
all findings must also be shared with the Philippines. Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has earlier expressed alarm over china’s involvement in the Philippine Rise research, noting that the Manila and Beijing have territorial disputes in some parts of the South china Sea. In a statement on Monday, January 22, Pangilinan remarked that “history and experience tell us that china is not exactly the most trustworthy partner for such an activity.” “What will the country stand to gain from this marine scientific research? Why do we need to partner with china? can’t the Philippines do it on its own? What is in store for china after the research? How long will this be carried out, and what will be the coverage of the research? What are the mechanisms and guidelines in place in the conduct of the activity?” Pangilinan said. The senator further asked, “Most importantly, what would be the impact of such joint undertaking on the Philippines’ national interest and security?” In a separate statement, Philippine Foreign affairs Secretary
alan Peter cayetano revealed that the Philippines also approved research requests from the United States, Japan and South Korea. cayetano told the Philippine Star that Malacañang has already approved 13 research applications from the United States, nine from Japan, and four from South Korea. In a bid to debunk critics’ claims of the Philippine government’s supposed bias in favor of china, cayetano also noted that only two out of 18 applications from china were approved. The Foreign affairs secretary further allayed fears that china would exploit Philippine resources amid access to the country’s waters. “They all must comply with Philippine laws or we would bar them at Benham Rise,” cayetano said. In May last year, President Rodrigo Duterte officially renamed “Benham Rise” to “Philippine Rise” in a bid to uphold the country’s sovereign rights. located along the Pacific Ocean 250 kilometers (155 miles) east of Isabela, the Philippine Rise is believed to be rich in mineral and gas deposits. n
Duterte to Middle East nations: Treat Filipinos with dignity by Gaea
Katreena Philstar.com
CabiCo
ManIla — President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday, January 24, called on countries in the Middle East to treat overseas Filipino workers with respect amid troubling reports of abuses and suicides. “can I ask you now to treat my countrymen as human beings with dignity?” Duterte said in a press conference before departing for India for the association of Southeast asian nations-India Special commemorative Summit. He added: “We are poor; we may
need your help but we will not do it at the expense of the dignity of the Filipinos.” Duterte threatened the withdrawal of OFWs in Kuwait following the deaths of six Filipinos there. He, however, did not clarify if the total ban will also apply to other Middle Eastern nations. “I hope I’m not committing diplomatic faux pas but one more incident of Filipina worker being raped there [or] committing suicide, I’m going to stop. I’m going to ban. I’m sorry to all Filipinos there, you can all go home,” he said. The chief executive added: “let
me be blunt about this because Kuwait has always been an ally. But please do something about it and for the other countries in the Middle East.” Duterte, who enjoyed overwhelming support from OFWs in the 2016 elections, said that there is no reason for him to stay in his position if he cannot address the problem. last week, DOlE suspended the deployment of OFWs, both returning and new hires, to Kuwait. Remittances from OFWs is one of the major drivers of the country’s economic growth. n
Aquino admits mistake over claim that Ona attended Sanofi meeting by Dana
SioSon AJPress
to tell you all about everything I did on that day in a period of six years? Remembering who you FORMER Philippine Presitalked to, where you talked, what dent Benigno “noynoy” aquino time you talked, what you talked III has admitted that he made a about?),” aquino remarked. “mistake” when he claimed that He went on to say, “I will have former Health Secretary Enrique to rely on what records tell me Ona was present during his and these records were looked meeting with Sanofi Pasteur exat by people who were helping ecutives four years ago. me and somebody made a misDuring a Senate hearing last take.” month, aquino confirmed that While clearing Ona from atOna was present during his tendance allegations, aquino meeting with officials of Sanofi maintained that it was the forPasteur, the manufacturer of the mer health secretary who first controversial anti-dengue vacbrought up the anti-dengue vaccine Dengvaxia, in Beijing in nocine to him. vember 2014. “I reiterate my position that this But on Monday, January 22, matter [Dengvaxia] was brought the former president declared up… by Ona in a letter or memo that he made a wrong claim. dated august 23, 2010. and up The former president exto that time that he resigned, he was the one giving me updates on this new weapon against dengue,” aquino said. The Senate is currently conducting a probe on the controversies hounding the Dengvaxia, following an analysis which found out that the vaccine could cause a more severe case of dengue when administered on a person who has not been infected with the virus. The analysis prompted the Philippine government to halt its massive dengue immunization program, which was first launched in early 2016 under the aquino administration and former Health Secretary Janette garin. DENGVAXIA HEARING. Former Health Secretary Enrique Ona (right) takes his oath during the garin served as the Departresumption of the Senate probe into the Dengvaxia anti-dengue vaccine. Also called to the probe were Janette Garin, former Health Secretary, the incumbent Health Chief Francisco ment of Health (DOH) chief until June 2016 after Ona resigned in Duque III, and Paulyn Jean Ubial, also a former Health Secretary. ManilaTimes.net photo by Rene Dilan December 2014. n plained that he has to rely on records provided to him as he pointed out that the meeting happened years ago. according to aquino, he was given a briefer that Ona was present during the november 2014 meeting. “I have to rely on the records that we possessed and unfortunately, sometimes there’s a mistake. Di ba, it’s human to err (It’s human to err, right)?” aquino told Inquirer. He also noted that he had no reason to doubt the accuracy of the records. “Parang pwede ko bang sabihin sayo lahat ng ginawa ko on that day in a period of six years? Remembering sinong kausap, saan kayo nag-usap, anong oras kayo nag usap, anong pinag-usapan nyo? (It’s like, would I be able
consists of two chambers. “With regard to the budget, HOUSE Speaker Pantaleon al- the passage of such law needs varez has dismissed his recent the concurrence of the House threat to cut the budget of law- and the Senate,” Palace Spokesmakers who will oppose the pro- person Harry Roque said. “For posed shift to a federal form of us, it is hard to happen because in order to give a zero budget, government as a mere “joke.” In a television interview on the Senate and the House [have] House Speaker Pantaleon Alavarez Philstar.com photo Monday, January 22, alvarez to agree.” n clarified that he was “not serious” when he previously warned solons that they may receive “zero budget” if they refused to support the federalism initiative of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. “alam mo… ‘pag nag-speech ka, kailangan mo ng konting birubiro, di ba? ‘Yun lang naman ‘yun eh, ewan ko ba kung bakit sineryoso nila yan (Sometimes you need a joke when making a speech, right? That’s all it is about. I don’t know why they took it seriously),” alvarez told aBS-cBn news channel’s Headstart. last week, the House speaker said he would respect politicians who will not support the push for federalism but added that they, in turn, must also respect his decision to give no funds for projects in their provinces. He pointed out that it would be “unfair” if both supporters and critics of federalism get funding from congress. “Siyempre, ‘yung ibang probinsya ayaw nilang makisama, o ‘di zero sa budget... alangan namang pantay? (Of course, provinces that refuse to cooperate, will get zero budget...Should there be equal treatment?),” alvarez said in a speech on Thursday, January 18. He continued, “Kung ayaw ‘nyong sumama, okay. ginagalang ko ‘yun, karapatan ‘nyo ‘yun, pero ang sabi ko nga, igalang ‘nyo rin ang karapatan ko para ma-zero kayo sa budget, ‘di ba? (If you won’t go along with the plan, it’s okay. I respect that. It’s your right, but you should also respect my right to give you zero budget, right?).” But alvarez later dismissed his threat as “empty words,” noting that he could not decide alone on the distribution of the government’s budget. He further pointed out that budget proposals needed concurrence of the Senate. Malacañang, for its part, said the House cannot decide alone on budget matters because congress
A
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OpiniOn
Economic Cha-cha
Features
BUSINESS groups have expressed their views on Charter change, and it would be prudent for lawmakers to consider those opinions. Cha-cha is supposed to be about uplifting the lives of the people — not just of the power elite, whose personal and family fortunes depend on maintaining their grip on political power, but of the millions of ordinary Filipinos who need meaningful jobs and livelihood opportunities. The investors are the ones who can provide those jobs and other opportunities for legitimate income generation. In the past decades, however, the Philippines has progressively slipped in national competitiveness, with investors including some Filipinos taking their businesses to neighboring countries. Despite sustained economic growth — one of Asia’s fastest — the country trails its neighbors in attracting job-generating investments. Even with economic powerhouse China becoming less attractive for foreign investors, the businesses aren’t going to the Philippines but to countries such as Vietnam. Some of the disincentives to investments in the Philippines can be corrected by amending restrictive economic provisions in the Constitution. There are only a few such provisions, and amending them can be done relatively quickly if Congress convenes a constituent assembly, with the two leg-
islative chambers voting separately and independently. In a joint statement over the weekend, three of the nation’s top business groups – the Makati Business Club, Management Association of the Philippines and Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines – issued a statement of support for economic Cha-cha through a constituent assembly. For a change in the form of government and other radical reforms, however, the business groups said longer deliberations are needed, through a constitutional convention. While this mode is longer, involves elected delegates and is more costly, it would be a “justifiable” investment in something that could result in “significant social returns in the long run,” the joint statement declared. Their sentiments are shared by many, who are ministration lawmakers. The case for economic worried by the undue haste by which Charter Cha-cha is clear, but still murky for federalism. change for federalism is being pushed by pro-ad- Proponents of a federal system should consider
Editorial
Philstar.com photo
the points raised by the business groups and assess where they want to take the latest effort to change the Constitution. (Philstar.com)
US Indo-Pacific strategy
Babe’s Eye View BaBes Romualdez EVERy year, the executive branch of the U.S. government is supposed to submit a National Security Strategy (NSS) report to the U.S. Congress, outlining the administration’s goals, objectives, worldwide interests and policies that impact the security of their nation. Many administrations however have not been submitting these reports on time, or worse, have not made any at all. President Barack Obama for instance submitted the NSS only twice during his eight-year tenure – specifically in 2010 and 2015. Last December, the administration of President Donald Trump released its NSS report and as expected, it generated — continues to generate, actually — varied opinions and disparate comments on several issues. One of the most widely discussed however is the prominence given to the Indo-Pacific region, described in the document as
stretching from the west coast of India to the Western shores of the United States representing “the most populous and economically dynamic part of the world,” and where “a geopolitical competition between free and repressive visions of world order is taking place,” the NSS report goes. It was actually Hillary Clinton — during her stint as State Secretary — who highlighted the term “Indo-Pacific” and its importance to global trade and commerce during a speech in Hawaii in 2010. Over the years, the term “Indo-Pacific has become increasingly used in diplomatic and security circles to indicate a wider area encompassing Australia, Japan and India as a counterpoint to “Asia-Pacific” where China is perceived to be predominant. “Although the United States seeks to continue to cooperate with China, China is using economic inducements and penalties, influence operations, and implied military threats to persuade other states to heed its political and security agenda… Its efforts to build and militarize
outposts in the South China Sea endanger the free flow of trade, threaten the sovereignty of other nations, and undermine regional stability,” the report said, which also accused China of seeking to “displace the U.S. in the IndoPacific region, expand the reach of its state-driven economic model and reorder the region in its favor.” Not surprisingly, China reacted strongly, saying in a statement that, “It is completely egotistical for any nation to put its interests above the common interests of other nations and the international community. It will lead to a path of self-isolation,” adding that the U.S. is being contradictory as it says on one hand that it wants to develop a partnership with China but on the other, “takes an oppositional stance.” The fact is, U.S. allies like Australia and Japan are increasingly using the term “Indo-Pacific” in their policy papers and in discussing security strategies. As early as 2007, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe — who is advocating a “free and open Indo-Pacific” — has been urging
India to work with Japan in promoting freedom and prosperity in the “broader Asia” where linkages between the U.S., Australia and other Pacific nations would result in a vast network that would allow the free-flow of goods and people. PM Abe’s strategy calls for a “democratic security diamond” involving Japan, Australia, the US and India. Senior diplomats of these nations met in Manila last November and agreed to uphold a rules-based, free and open international order in the Indo-Pacific region. I met with Matt Pottinger, the U.S. National Security Council’s senior director for East Asia and adviser to National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster at the White House, where we briefly discussed the Indo-Pacific strategy. Malaysian Ambassador Tan Sri Zulhasnan Rafique also hosted another meeting with NSA Director Pottinger and the other ASEAN ambassadors, where the underpinnings of the U.S. strategy in Asia was discussed, along with the common challenges that nations face such as rogue regimes and
terrorism, and how nations can strengthen alliances to defeat these threats. In any case, there is no doubt that India is pleased with President Trump’s national security strategy that “welcome(s) India’s emergence as a leading global power and stronger strategic partner.” Interestingly, the first foreign trip of President Rodrigo Duterte this year will be to India for the India-ASEAN summit, underscoring the great importance that the Philippine government places on its relationship with India. In November last year, the two nations inked four agreements to boost bilateral relations most especially on defense. Last December, members of the Indian and Philippine coast guards also conducted bilateral maritime exercises in Manila Bay. Not many are aware that India reached out to the Philippines following the siege of Marawi City, offering $500,000 financial assistance to help fight the ISISaffiliated terrorist groups that attacked the city. What is doubly significant is that it was the first time India extended aid to
another nation to fight terrorists – also underscoring the growing role of the Indian government in Southeast Asia. In my view, President Duterte’s upcoming visit to India clearly demonstrates the wisdom of the president’s pragmatic foreign policy approach, proving that our self-interest is paramount in establishing warm relations with rival countries like India and China. In his message preceding the contents of the 55-page NSS report, President Trump said he envisions “a world of strong, sovereign and independent nations, each with its own cultures and dreams, striving side-byside in prosperity, freedom, and peace — throughout the upcoming year.” It is clear that if leaders uphold cooperation, respect the dignity and sovereignty of each and every nation and develop an effective mechanism to settle disputes through dialogue — this vision of peaceful coexistence might just be realized soon, not only throughout this year, but for many years to come. (Philstar.com)
Philippine foreign affairs: Who’s in charge here? FIRST, let’s get something straight. Last time we checked, Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano was in charge of foreign affairs, while Secretary Delfin Lorenzana handled national defense. So, some seasoned government watchers must have been puzzled when Secretary Lorenzana last month wanted to file a diplomatic protest over reported Chinese militarization in the Spratlys. The defense chief was doing his job monitoring Chinese construction of facilities on reclaimed land at Fiery Cross Reef, which might have military uses. But the diplomatic action over the island activities—that was up to the Department of Foreign Affairs, not the Department of National Defense. There’s more. Just last weekend, Secretary Lorenzana reportedly sided with the United States when China decried the sailing of a U.S. guided-missile destroyer near Scarborough Shoal. Now, that seemed like a DFA, not a DND matter. Asked if the Philippines was concerned about the USS Hopper sailing near the shoal, Secretary Lorenzana said: “No, for as long as they are on innocent passage. International law allows innocent passage even in territorial waters.” Not-so-innocent passage The U.S. Navy has been conducting what it calls freedom of navigation operations, or “fonops,” sailing into waters claimed by China, like the area within 12 nautical miles, or 22.22 kilometers, from Scarborough Shoal. The fonops show that Washington does not recognize Beijing’s territorial claims. So, the USS Hopper was not entirely innocent in sailing near the shoal, since it was out to challenge China’s assertion of sovereignty. But it was not defending or advancing Philippine sovereignty, since Washington does not intervene in
statements seeming to show our territorial disputes. the Philippines disputing China Hence, it was a China-U.S. mat- Commentary and supporting America. ter, plain and simple, and how the That was certainly his perPhilippines responded to it was spective a year ago, when a matter of foreign, not defense he announced a U.S. plan to policy. Now, under President build facilities on Philippine Rodrigo Duterte’s independent bases under the Enhanced Deforeign policy of maintaining fense Cooperation Agreement neutrality and cultivating good RicaRdo saludo (EDCA). Soon after, he sparked relations with all major powers, the first controversy over Chinese research at taking sides is best avoided. As news headlines declared, however, Secre- Benham Rise, now Philippine Rise. President Rodrigo Duterte had to intervene. tary Lorenzana “defended” the U.S. warship’s sailing “even in territorial waters.” Now, whose He erupted over possible U.S. nuclear weapons waters he is referring to? Since China was the brought into Philippine bases. The U.S. Embassy one objecting to the U.S. warship, most people denied it, but that stalled U.S. construction of would think Secretary Lorenzana referred to Chi- base facilities. And the President disclosed that he gave permission for Chinese research in Bennese territorial waters around the shoal. In fact, the Philippine position is that Scar- ham Rise. Now, Secretary Lorenzana is again criticizborough Shoal is our territory, and China has no right to protest sailings of any vessels around the ing China, even with burgeoning ties under shoal. Moreover, the United Nations Convention President Duterte. Would this lead to renewed on the Law of the Sea, or Unclos, does not ac- warnings about China and calls to implement the cord territorial waters to shoals and other marine EDCA? After all, Washington needs air and naval bases in the country more than ever, for possible outcrops. Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque and conflicts over Korea and Taiwan. Other prominent figures have lately called for maritime law expert Jay Batongbacal, both international law professors at the University of the a tougher stance against Beijing. Senior AssoPhilippines, asserted that the shoal was Philip- ciate Justice Antonio Carpio, who spearheaded the winning case in The Hague against China’s pine territory. Batongbacal defended the USS Hopper’s free- “nine-dash line” claim over most of the South dom of navigation, while Secretary Roque de- China Sea, recently said the government should clined to take sides: “We do not wish to be part not allow new Chinese research in Philippine Rise since Beijing won’t accept the July 2016 of a U.S.-China intramural.” ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration A US push to revive EDCA? Despite the Palace position texted to media, (PCA). Magdalo party-list Rep. Gary Alejano said that however, one leading newspaper headlined: “PH defends ‘innocent passage’ of U.S. warship near the DFA recently allowed a research ship of the Panatag.” And there may yet be more Lorenzana Chinese Academy of Sciences, but rejected a
French foundation seeking permission, supposedly in the same area. It turned out that the French research was to be in “a sensitive area” in Palawan, as Secretary Cayetano put it. Its vessel was also too small to accommodate a Filipino scientist, as required by the DFA and agreed by China. UP researchers will be on board the Chinese ship. As for the PCA ruling, Secretary Roque, a professor in international law, said that the decision is binding and valid even if Beijing rejects it. But more important, President Duterte’s reversal of his predecessor’s rabidly anti-China, pro-U.S.policy has eased tensions, and led the Chinese to halt reclamation in the Spratlys, and allow Filipino fishermen back to Scarborough Shoal—actions that even Western analysts see as compliance with The Hague decision. Now, with North Korea’s missile threats, most Filipinos would be scared to host American forces likely to be targeted by Pyongyang. But the U.S. and its supporters won’t stop trying to get the EDCA going. And the Seventh Fleet’s freedom of navigation operations could do just that. Fonops stir up Beijing and escalate tensions. And China’s People’s Daily newspaper, the country’s largest, has warned of massive military build-up if “wanton” provocations intensify. So, if Washington sends more USS Hoppers to raise the temperature, Beijing may just take the bait and deploy more ships, planes and missiles, or even impose restrictions like the air defense identification zone it declared over the East China Sea near Japan in 2013. All the more reason to keep cool heads in Asian capitals, and get the Code of Conduct between our region and Beijing done fast. (ManilaTimes. net)
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.
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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 25-31, 2018
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Philippine economy grows 6.7% in 2017 by ian
90 YEARS. National Artist Bienvenido Lumbera cuts the cake during the grand celebration of the 90th anniversary of The Varsitarian, accompanied by former editors in chief of the official student paper of the University of Santo Tomas on Saturday, January 20 at the UST campus in Manila. Editors of the university paper condemned attacks on the press during the reunion of the paper’s alumni, including National Artist F. Sionil Jose, Alice Colet-Villadolid, The Manila Times columnist Francisco Tatad, Antonio Lopez, Crispin Maslog, Charlie Agatep, Cristina Pantoja-Hidalgo, Rina Jimenez-David, the Associated Press’ Jim Gomez and poet Vim Nadera, director of the Makiling High School for the Arts. ManilaTimes.net photo
Calida asserts: Rebellion, terrorism exist in Mindanao by Kristine Joy
Philstar.com
Patag
MANILA — The Office of the Solicitor General on Wednesday asserted that martial law is still needed in Mindanao as terror remains in the southern region. Solicitor General Jose Calida told the SC that following the 9/11 attack in the United States, “states were constrained to address a new and unique crime—terrorism.” The definition of “public safety”—one of the requirements in the Constitution in declaring martial law—may be taken in the context of Republic Act 9372 or the Human Security Act of 2007, according to the government’s chief counsel. In the Philippines, Section 3 of RA 9372 defines terrorism as “any person who commits an act... sowing and creating a condition of widespread and extraordinary fear and panic among the populace.” “Since the laws on rebellion and terrorism are considered in pari materia (as legal term), the public safety requirement maybe understood in the context of what is expressly provided in Republic Act 9372, particularly the second element of the crime, i.e., the rebellion in Mindanao has not only inflicted civilian casualties, but also had the effect of sowing and creating a condition of wide-
spread and extraordinary fear and panic among the populace,” Calida said. He recalled that during the oral arguments in the SC, the military was asked to expound on the effect of martial law in their operations. Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, in particular, told Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero of the Armed Forces of the Philippines: “We have to have clear message to the people: This is what martial law does.” Citing Guerrero, Calida said that “among others, the general population expressed elation and peace of mind from the declaration of martial law.” “But the effect is obviously more than psychological as the perception of public safety heightened with increased military presence, unabated checkpoints, and undeterred offensives against rebels and terrorists,” Calida added. “The actions of the military have, in effect, addressed the widespread fear and panic among peace-loving Filipinos in Mindanao,” the solicitor general said. “Martial law as an option of the president exists precisely to address a rebellion that endangers public safety,” he also stressed. One of the petitioners challenging the factual basis of the martial law extension asked the SC to define “public safety” as a
House sees Sereno impeachment by March by Delon
Porcalla Philstar.com
MANILA — The House of Representatives may elevate the impeachment complaint lawyer Lorenzo Gadon filed against Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno to the Senate by the last week of March, Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez disclosed. “Before we go on break (for the Holy Week), we might be able to file it because we have already started (drafting) the articles of impeachment,” Alvarez said in Filipino during a press conference in Iloilo City last week. He advised Sereno not to be impatient or get frustrated as she will definitely be given her day in her preferred venue — the Senate impeachment court. “I think she wants it rushed to the Senate where she thinks she has the numbers. But for me, let us do this properly… people are watching us (on TV). Her accusers are presenting their evidence and her colleagues have spoken. This is the first time in the history of the Supreme Court,” Alvarez said. Her psychiatrist, he added, would also appear before the committee to shed light on whether or not Seren o met the minimum requirements to become chief justice. Oriental Mindoro Rep. Reynaldo Umali, chairman of the House committee on justice, earlier said the impeachment complaint is just a matter of formality following the strong belief of Alvarez that the issues raised against Sereno stand on strong and solid ground. In last week’s hearing, at least two SC officials said Sereno’s acquisition of a P5.1-million Toyota Land Cruiser might have violated the Government Procurement Reform Act. “It was already pre-determined, your honor,” Ma. Carina Cunanan, procurement head and assistant chief of SC’s administrative services, told the committee. When questioned, she conceded it was a “directive” from the Chief Justice’s camp but downplayed the infraction. “We had to ask the office of the end user what vehicle they would prefer in the event we procure a vehicle. So it was them who said Land Cruiser,” Cunanan recalled. House Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas pointed out that, under existing procurement laws, preferring a brand in biddings is strictly prohibited and that only specifications should be stated in the notices to be fair to other equally reliable brands. Although there was already an endorsement to get a Land Cruiser,
lawyer Thelma Bahia, head of the SC bids and awards committee, said they did not specify the brand and just stated the specifications when the procurement of vehicle notice was posted. “That’s how you skirt the law,” Fariñas said as Bahia confirmed that only supplier Toyota Makati showed up during the bidding. Gadon claimed he has proof that Sereno violated the procurement law. “The initiatory document, the first endorsement clearly states Toyota Land Cruiser, even the color pearl white, even the engine displacement and the amount. It’s attached in the records your honor,” he told the lawmakers. ABS party-list Rep. Eugene de Vera said that the P6-million budget the SC prepared for the purchase of vehicles was specifically meant for the purchase of a Toyota Land Cruiser. Apart from the Land Cruiser, Sereno is using another vehicle, a 2011 Hyundai Starex Gold. ‘Personal opinions’ Lawyer Jojo Lacanilao, one of Sereno’s spokespersons, downplayed the testimonies of six high court justices, saying these were not enough to impeach the chief magistrate because they are “based on purely personal opinions.” “Most of the things they have said are disagreements with the Chief Justice on how the rules of the Supreme Court would be interpreted. Some of them are complaints about management or maybe leadership style,” Lacanilao pointed out. The SC justices who testified before the House committee on justice were Teresita Leonardo-de Castro, Francis Jardeleza, Noel Tijam, Diosdado Peralta, Lucas Bersamin and Samuel Martirez. Lacanilao claimed that some incumbent justices had an axe to grind because Sereno “leapfrogged over other senior associate justices” and would serve as the high court’s chief for 18 years or until she reaches 70, the mandatory age of retirement. He was disappointed that the justices were allowing themselves to be part of a process that is threatening the independence of the judiciary as a co-equal branch of government. Despite repeated calls for her to resign, Lacanilao said the Chief Justice is staying put and would continue to fight for judicial independence even if attacks against her at the ongoing impeachment hearings in the House of Representatives have gone “below the belt.” n
requirement in declaring martial law. Members of the National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers said that public safety is the “most decisive element in the martial law powers of the President.” “The fact that our countrymen, both Christians and [Muslims], have somehow managed to go about their daily lives in Mindanao [does not mean] that there is no need for the extension of the proclamation or suspension,” Calida added. Duterte’s year-long extension of martial law in Mindanao is facing four petitions challenging its factual basis. n
nicolas cigaral Philstar.com
MANILA — The Philippine economy expanded within the government’s target in 2017, keeping the country’s position as one of the fastest growing economies in Asia despite a slowdown in the last three months of the year, the country’s statistics agency reported on Tuesday, January 23. The country’s gross domestic product — or the value of all finished goods and services produced in the country — grew 6.6 percent in the fourth quarter, decelerating from the upwardly revised 7 percent in the previous three months. The October-December GDP settled below market estimate of 6.7 percent, but nonetheless matched the growth rate recorded in the same period in 2016. The fourth quarter figure placed the country’s full-year GDP performance to 6.7 percent, slower than 2016’s 6.9 percent but still within the government’s 6.5-7.5 percent growth target range in 2017. “To me this is a good performance given the fact that it’s already normal for post-election years to witness a decline in economic growth,” Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia told a press conference. “Our decline is really very moderate,” he added. Farm output, which accounts for about a tenth of the Philippines’ GDP, grew 4 percent in 2017, a turnaround from previous year’s 1.4 percent decline. Pernia said public spending,
which grew 14.3 percent, was the main growth driver in the fourth quarter of 2017. On the other hand, the “major contributing factor” to the economic decline was the miscellaneous services sector, which includes the business process outsourcing industry, he said. “We can take this as an indication that the current market profile of the BPO sector is ripe to move into higher value-added services,” Pernia said. The industry sector expanded at a slower pace to 7.2 percent in 2017 from 2016’s 8.4 percent. Meanwhile, services sector grew 6.7 percent last year, a reversal from the 7.4 percent growth rate clocked a year ago. “With these developments, we move forward in 2018 with even stronger determination to accelerate growth,” Pernia remarked. Upward trajectory Moving forward, the country’s socioeconomic planning chief said the government is hoping to “shift to the trajectory upwards some more” this year and in the medium term. In the first quarter of 2018, Pernia said he expects domestic demand to pick up on account of improvements in household consumption as a result of the enactment of the Duterte administration’s first tax reform package, and employment opportunities to be generated by the state’s ambitious infrastructure program. He added that government consumption will likely “remain afloat” buoyed by the programmed increase in social
spending, as well as higher compensation for government workers in line with the Salary Standardization Law. On December 19, President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Act, which aims to generate revenue to fund a multi-billion dollar infrastructure program key to the government’s economic agenda. Under the TRAIN law, personal income tax rates will be adjusted to shift the burden off lower-income segments toward the “ultra-rich” while projected revenues to be foregone will be offset by higher excise levies on petroleum and automobiles, among others. The Duterte administration has set an P8.44-trillion infrastructure spending plan until 2022 to spur gross domestic product growth to 7-8 percent starting this year from a targeted 6.5-7.5 percent in 2017. The Philippines has a 7.0-8.0 percent growth target in 2018. For his part, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Nestor Espenilla said the sanguine economic growth in the fourth quarter gives the central bank “ample” room to meet its inflation target of 2-4 percent. “The strong GDP result in Q4, and in 2017 overall, confirm the underlying strength of the economy that rests on increasingly balanced foundation,” Espenilla said. “This gives BSP ample policy space to stay focused on meeting its inflation target and pursuing financial sector reforms,” he added. n
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January 25-31, 2018 • LaS VEGaS aSIan JOurnaL
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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 25-31, 2018
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Journal
Breanna in her mom Jessica’s footsteps ‘Insidious’ creator interested to cast Filipino monsters in future movies
by Ricky Lo Philstar.com
BEVERLY HILLS, California — “She will be a superstar!” It’s a Thursday, Jan. 11, and we (Star correspondent Raymond Lo and immigration lawyer Jemela Nettles) are at a suite of the monthsold Waldorf Los Angeles having cocktails while waiting for the airing of the maiden episode of the reality—”TV Making a Model.” Jessica Rodriguez is all nerves as she and husband David Bunevacz, along with children Hayca and Grant, do the rounds entertaining guests who are all excited to watch the show hosted by Yolanda Hadid, ex-wife of David Foster, a supermodel who appeared on the TV series “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.” Jessica is talking about her daughter Breanna, 14, who is among the six teeners participating in the eight-episode show airing on the Lifetime channel. Together with their moms (called “Momagers”), the aspiring models spent two months in New York for the shoot starting in March last year. “Am I a stage mom?” laughs Jessica while sipping champagne. And before she can answer, Breanna beats her to it. “Yes, she is
by MJ
MaRfoRi ManilaTimes.net
One of the six participants in the reality-TV show “Making a Model,” hosted by supermodel Yolanda Hadid, the daughter of Jessica Rodriguez and David Bunevacz is determined to make a name of her own. Photos from Instagram/@ breanna.bunevac
sometimes!” The “viewing party” was originally scheduled at the house of Backstreet Boy Kevin Richardson, a good friend of the Bunevacz, until the guest list got longer, prompting Jessica and David to move the venue to the posh Waldorf (within shouting distance to Beverly Hilton where the Golden Globes awards are usually held). Like the five other Momagers, Jessica believes that her daughter is the best. And Hadid knows the feeling. “Every girl on the planet has the dream to be a supermodel,” she was quoted in an interview. “I think (the show) is a great platform to have. We didn’t go out with all girls that are 5’9” or 5’10” like the usual model. We have a great variety of different girls and they have personality because beauty alone is not enough, as you know.” Everybody keeps quiet as the show unreels, showing the girls in their first “challenge” — conceptualizing a pictorial on the streets of the Big Apple, mentored and monitored by the Momagers. Hadid serves as a mentor to the girls during the eight-week training program that tests their modeling capabilities as well as their mother-daughter bonds. At stake is a management contract with Hadid’s company and the chance to be represented by IMG Models
in New York. “The girls couldn’t come to the show without their moms,” explained Hadid in that same interview. (Hadid’s Philippine connection includes Dr. Vicki Belo, David Foster’s friend who never fails to call on Vicki when he’s in Manila; he was one of the judges of Asia’s Got Talent). “The moms are very much a part of the show.” Says Jessica, “Yolanda taught us to let our kids fly on their own. The girls can do modeling but not travel around the world until they are 18.” Now in Grade 8 (high school), Breanna knows what she wants and that’s to be a supermodel. “I am the sum total of my parents’ best assets,” claims Breanna who migrated to the States with the family when she was five years old. “My mom is a model, a beauty queen, a singer and an actress, and my dad is an athlete. I have the best of both worlds,” adds Breanna who is also an equestrienne. “I was into horses as a girl. Now I am between modeling and horseback-riding but I am more inclined towards modeling.” Thousands from all over the States auditioned for the show but Breanna didn’t. “I posted my book, ‘Date Like a Girl and Marry Like a Woman’ (launched in 2016), on my InstaPAGE B3
THE Times got to meet the stars of “Insidious Four: The Last Key” in Hong Kong, namely Hollywood’s Scream Queen Lin Shaye and director, actor and creator Leigh Whannell to find out what’s in store for the horror genre in 2018. Whannell said that following his blockbuster “Insidious” and “Saw” franchises, he is aggressively looking for new ideas to show Hollywood. In fact, he stumbled on a few Asian monsters during the junket to the region. “I did a lot of Asian research in film class back in college and now it’s good to get exposed to the monsters in this side of the world,” he related. To help him out, The Times whipped up a picture of the Philippines’ manananggal, and guess what. Whannel’s expertise led him to figure out where such a creature would come from: “It sort of looks like a mythical forest creature
A scene from “Insidious Four: The Last Key”.
that grabs you at night.” He was vaguely right! He took the photo from us and said that he will do a character study and possibly cast our very own monster in one his future movies. Imagine? A manananggal in Hollywood? Anyway, “Insidious Four: The Last Key” goes back to the childhood of paranormal investigator Elise Reiner played by Shayne, and this time she won’t be helping
other people but herself. “It was challenging and very exhausting [role] because it was a very emotional story for Elise,” said the actress. If there is one tip she shared if you still haven’t caught the movie it’s this: “Don’t take a nap! Haha, no! You have to go through it to get through it and it’s OK to be scared because it is an emotion that everyone has that you usually have no control over.”
Julia Montes’ projectile motion
by MaRbbie
Tagabucba Philstar.com
Asintado press conference early this week. “First, ‘Asintado.’ Tapos MAY something ’yung 2018 family ko super happy na. Super for me. Sumakto siya na year for stable na. Lahat ng inaasam ko na change,” Julia Montes admits, change, nangyari na noong end of luxuriating in the calm before the 2017 entering 2018.”
Julia Montes plays Ana in the latest melodrama “Asintado.”
“Asintado” is the 22-year-old’s first project since she changed managements and moved to Cornerstone in October. The Star Magic baby of “Going Bulilit” and teeny bopper “Mara Clara” fame turned the trajectory of her career from the makings of becoming a teen queen (a title her “Mara Clara” co-star Kathryn Bernardo has) to taking the crown as the newest queen of afternoon dramas in “Doble Kara” as the titular lead where she played twins Kara and Sara. It was a daily soap, which ran with high ratings for two years. As one of the most hard-working actresses in the business, after a fantasy “Wansapanatym” episode to lighten things up, she took a break. There was a time that she was the sole breadwinner of the Hautea Philstar.com photo by Regine David PAGE B3
Features
B january 25-31, 2018 • LaS VEGaS aSIan jOurnaL
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AdAm JAcobs And Reggie de Leon:
The Fil-Am stars of Disney’s ‘Aladdin’ national tour By Christina
M. Oriel
AJPress
FOLLOWING the five-month residency of Tony Award-winning musical “Hamilton,” the Hollywood Pantages Theatre transformed into ‘a whole new world’ this January with the arrival of Disney’s “Aladdin.” Adapted from the 1992 animated classic and centuries-old folktales including “One Thousand and One Nights,” the staging of “Aladdin” takes the audience to the made-up city of Agrabah. There, you meet Aladdin (Adam Jacobs) — nicknamed a ‘street rat’ for his thievery and other maneuvers — and his three friends Babkak, Omar and Kassim (Zach Bencal, Philippe Arroyo and Mike Longo). As the story goes, Aladdin meets the Genie (played by Michael James Scott who received a lot of roars and standing ovations on opening night) who grants the former three wishes, including transforming into Prince Ali in a bid to wed Princess Jasmine (played by Courtney Reed until February 18 and Isabelle McCalla for the remainder of the run). “Aladdin” opened on Broadway in 2014 and remains a resounding hit, like many of Disney’s productions. The musical continues its first national tour this year, includ-
ing a three-month stop in Los Angeles, where it formally opened on Thursday, January 11. For the Filipino-American community in Southern California, beyond the visual overload and energetic numbers (the iconic “A Whole New World” number is as shining, shimmering splendid as anticipated), seeing Fil-Am talent take on principal roles is not to be glossed over. Fresh off opening week, the Asian Journal interviewed Jacobs (whose mother is Filipina) and Reggie De Leon (Iago) about bringing their respective characters to life and representing Fil-Ams on stage. Adam Jacobs on becoming Aladdin Jacobs, who originated the title character on Broadway for which he received a 2014 Drama Desk Award nomination for “Outstanding Actor in a Musical,” said characterizing Aladdin continues to be satisfying years and hundreds of performances later. “It’s [a] very physical…[and] very demanding role. So you have to have comedic chops, you have to be athletic, and you have to sing and dance. Do it all, right? It’s a very demanding role but because of that, it’s super rewarding,” Jacobs told the Asian Journal. “It’s the best role I’ve had in my career so far.”
The actor from Half Moon Bay, California — who previously played Simba in the national tour of Disney’s “The Lion King,” Marius in “Les Miserables,” and Sky in “Mamma Mia!” — was scouted for Aladdin back in late 2010 then went through a few rounds of auditions before he secured the role. In working with director Casey Nicholaw (who won a Tony Award for “The Book of Mormon”) and book writer Chad Beguelin, Jacobs said there was an opportunity to develop and interpret the character as his own. “The three of us went through and saw what worked and what didn’t. It’s such an amazing experience to be able to create a role because you have that opportunity to sort of make it your own and you can shape it,” he reflected. “You try something out and it doesn’t necessarily work. We went through so many different versions of lines. It’s such a cool thing to be able to take it and really hone your strengths.” In addition to “A Whole New World,” Jacobs’s favorite number includes “Proud of Your Boy,” which Aladdin sings to his mother who passed away. Of “Proud of Your Boy,” he said, “Aladdin’s saying, ‘I’m gonna make you proud,’ and fulfill that promise and to stop stealing. I sing that pretty much early in the first act
Isabelle McCalla and Adam Jacobs take on Jasmine and Aladdin in the national tour of Disney’s “Aladdin.”
Adam Jacobs as Aladdin
and it’s his whole motivation turns into the whole show. It’s a beautiful song and it’s my favorite song to sing. You have this amazing music of Alan Menken.” There’s also “Friend Like Me,” a nearly 10-minute scene alongside the Genie, which on opening night resonated with and wowed the audience. “So couple those numbers with the amazing set and the costumes. I think people are blown away by the costumes pretty much more than anything else when they come see it. They’re pretty incredible,” he said. “On one pair of pants, you have over a thousand Swarovski crystals. They didn’t skimp going from Broadway to the tour, which is great. A lot of tours scale down when they bring it on the road but not Disney — Disney can luckily afford to do it so it’s pretty nice.” Now in LA, Jacobs’s daily routine is filled with being a dad and “chasing down” his 4-year-old twin sons, then he switches to “Broadway-mode and [does] a show for 2,703 people every night.” “I have my tricks and things that I do to get into my own headspace. I have juggling balls which help me get into it. I have my stretching routine and a mini-gym set up which is just cables and weights and so I have a whole physical routine and a vocal warm-up that I do for my preshow rituals,” he described. In playing a prominent role, Jacobs is keen on talking about his Filipino heritage and being one of the leading Fil-Am talents on Broadway. “I’m very proud to be able to represent Filipino Americans on stage. There aren’t that many but I think on Broadway, you know, at least
Reggie De Leon as Iago
[when] you’ve been living in New York and working on Broadway and it’s slowly starting to become more inclusive…[and you] see more roles for Asian-Americans and it’s good and it’s what needs to happen and the theatre world always seems to be a step ahead of the TV and film world. I’m hoping that that will follow soon,” he said. His sister Arielle Jacobs (“Wicked,” “In the Heights,” and “Into the Woods”) will begin playing Princess Jasmine on Broadway this February. Aside from his breakthroughs on Broadway, Jacobs shared that one of his proudest moments was when he and Arielle did a cabaret show in San Francisco in which they sang “about our family coming to the United States” and paid tribute to their 92-year-old grandfather who is a World War II veteran. “It’s pretty cool that we were
Photos by Deen van Meer
able to share that with him and give that to him — what a joyous special moment,” he said. Reggie De Leon as comic relief Iago For De Leon, who brings Iago (Jafar’s sidekick parrot) to life with punchy, comical bursts, performing at the Pantages is a “full-circle” moment. It’s the theater where De Leon — who was born in Hollywood and grew up in Santa Fe Springs — saw his first major musical, “Phantom of the Opera.” “Now I’m here and get to be on the other side of the curtain and perform for hopefully the next generation of theater artists out there. We [have] a lot of wonderful kids coming to see the show. It’s just a very cool thing. A really, really neat experience like coming full-circle,” De Leon told the Asian Journal. De Leon caught the “acting PAGE B4
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Judy Ann Santos faces all her fears Korina Sanchez reveals diet and active lifestyle large part of ‘dramatic’ transformation by Gabbie
TaTad Philstar.com
JUDY ann Santos-agoncillo, whether in films or in her many advertisements, has always evoked the image of The Ultimate Filipina. She’s the woman you put a ring on, the woman you bring home to mom, the woman you’d like to call mom, the kumare you run to when things are dicey and a compassionate shoulder is necessary. and to sit down with her is to know that what you see is what you get for the most part, with a little bit extra. For instance, when Ms. Santosagoncillo talks about dealing with criticism, she shares instances when she regularly had to come face to face with writers who would publish the most ridiculous and unnecessary insults and lies about her. at a press conference, she ran into one particular writer who didn’t think she knew who he was and, playing dumb, asked her what she thought about others saying she was suplada and fat. She quickly and without hesitation replied, “Ah, ’yung sinulat mo?” it’s worth noting that as she tells this story, it is without any air or trace of salacious excitement, no “Look at me, i’m so wicked.” “She’s not here to cause a scene; she’s just not here to take anyone else’s sh*t. She shrugs lightly and says, “Kung matapang ka sa papel, kailangan matapang ka sa personal.” That has always been the draw when it comes to Ms. Santosagoncillo, lovingly referred to by many as Juday: that she is so real. She says that she thought she was ready for her current circuit doing promos for her new film, but finds herself coping by eating everything in sight. “Isang mall show namin, pag pasok ko ng backstage, may donut, may chicken, may cake, may dinuguan. Tinira ko silang lahat,” she says, positively tickled. “Sirang-sira ’yung diet ko, pero ang happy ko. Sabi ko, ‘Bibigay ko na nga to sayo Juday, okay lang yan. Pagkatapos ng lahat nito, tawagan mo na lahat ng coach mo.” She talks about her husband having to set her straight every so often because she can fetch every excuse in the book to avoid working out. But she says that she has designated 2018 as the year to face all her fears, and she’s started by buying a white bathing suit. She says that when she turns 40, she wants to take a photo in that bathing suit and be proud of the shape she’s in. No more fears Facing her fears includes the work she’s done on her current film, Jun robles Lana’s “ang Dalawang Mrs. reyes,” starring opposite angelica Panganiban. it’s the story of two women who find out that their husbands are having an affair with one another, and how they plan to exact revenge. “Sa pelikula na ‘to, si Lianne, ang ganda ganda ng character niya at hindi ko siya mabitawan, pero kaya ko ba siyang gawin? Si Lianne, hindi mo siya pwedeng gawin ng half-hearted ka. Kasi ‘pag nagdalawang-isip ka, liligwakin
by Niña
Korina Sanchez’s new thin and tanned look has stunned and surprised many, especially as she was made the face of a celebrity cosmetics clinic. The newscaster shared that apart from procedures that tightened and lifted her skin, she had been dieting and exercising with discipline. “There are no shortcuts to getting fit,” she said in an earlier instagram post. in an instagram post, the 53-year-old said the “dramatic” transformation involved physical activities like deep sea diving, walking and hiking. and for the tan: “i stayed under the sun a lot by choice because i like having color.” “The improvements were a process,” she explained. In her latest film, Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo stars opposite Angelica Panganiban in “Ang Dalawang Mrs. Reyes” — a story of two women who find out that their husbands are having an affair with one another. Philstar.com photo by Regine David
ka ng pelikula. Ikaw ’yung rotten tomato sa basket ng magagandang hinanda ng pelikula. if you’re not fully involved in this project, sayang ’yung pagod ng lahat ng tao kung ikaw ’yung kaisa-isang taong hindi gumawa ng trabaho ng tama,” says Ms. Santos-agoncillo. “’Yung mga pa-boobs, ’yung mga mura, hindi ko naman ginawa yan sa kahit anong pelikula nung bata pa ako! and it’s actually refreshing.” Ms. Santos-agoncillo says it took some convincing for her to take on the role, not only because it was unlike anything she’d done before, but because her having slowed down in making films to take care of her young family made her more open and vulnerable to criticism. “You can make one film after another na patse-patse lang trabaho mo, but sometimes when you take a break and just do one film at a time, mas mapapansin pa trabaho mo. So i had to really tell myself, what’s important is ginawa mo ’yung film kasi gusto mo.” She adds, “Most of my life has been dedicated to making films and teleseryes, and wala akong masyadong chance pumili ng gusto kong gawin. Pinipili ako ng trabaho at pinipilit ako ng manager ko na. ‘Gawin mo to.’ So ngayon, nasa sitwasyon ako na pipili ako ng trabaho hindi dahil pihikan ako, kundi dahil i gave so much of my life already to this business. i have three lives na binubuo, including my marriage, and kung gagawa ako ng pelikula, it should be something really worth it.” Is it worth it? She seems to be incredibly happy with her decision, and lauds the film in its handling of LGBTQia matters. “We really live in a modern world, and it’s nice to see that being bakla isn’t funny anymore. it isn’t a punchline, and it goes so much deeper than someone just
being lesbian or being gay. There are so many classifications that, to me, it gets confusing.” She stops for a bit and asks questions from others in the room as to whether someone who is transgender can be a lesbian (yes), and whether there are more lesbian sub-groups apart from butch or femme (yes). “Can you imagine, for someone who’s transgender, na feeling mo tutubuan ka ng pechay kasi alam mong babae ka, pero yung katawan mo lalaki? Gaano kahirap at gaano kasakit nun para sa isang tao? and all these classifications and groups deserve a lot of understanding and respect. i’m glad to be part of a film that’s helping to explain at least some of these things.” audiences also seem to be happy with her decision, as praise for her work in the film has been nonstop. Praise that, she admits, never gets old. “i looked up to women like Maricel, Sharon, Vilma and nora. i was blessed to grow up around actors na very professional, maayos trumato sa mga tao at kapwa artista. May sinabi si angelica na you get bits and pieces of each person that you idolize; hindi mo iniidolo yung kabuuan niya. But i can say na sa buong oras ko sa industriyang to, wala akong nakasamang unprofessional na artista. it was such a privilege to witness stars at their finest. Kaya nahimay ko sila at pinasok ko sila sa tinahak ko sa industriyang to.” “now, i get comments from young actresses like angelica saying i’m their idol and ‘#goals.’ of course, may kilig yun, hindi naman pwedeng hindi kiligin, ano ba! and it makes me think, ang layo layo na siguro ng narating ko para ako yung maging example nila. okay, i did something right.” She then smiles, pats herself on the shoulder, and with a laugh, says, “in fairness sayo, Juday.”
Breanna in her mom Jessica’s... PAGE B1 gramaccount, so i told Breanna that she should have her own iG account,” relates Jessica. “on her fifth posting, complete with a video, we got word from the production company. We were interviewed,” adding with a laugh, “and i think they liked my accent. after six months, we were informed that
Breanna was in.” Six more episodes and anything can happen. “i don’t know what’s gonna happen,” says Breanna, brimming with hope. “We can get a lot of opportunities, hopefully. Whatever happens, i will start modeling.” So how did Breanna fare on the first (and second, aired on Jan.
18) episodes? Watch “Making a Model” and see for yourselves. “all i remind Breanna is, ‘Be humble, be grounded,’ to treasure her friends and not to forget the people who are helping her,” Jessica tells us before we bid her goodbye, and good night. and, yes, good luck to Breanna!
Julia Montes’ projectile... PAGE B1 household (she was born Mara Hautea Schnittka and has a German biological father). Then some relationships in her life didn’t make it easier. at work, she would break into palpitations while taping. But she carried on, offsetting the mental and emotional workload with Krav Maga and firing lessons, beating and shooting the pain away. “i was always putting other people first. May ganun ako na personality before. Tapos na ako doon, na ako ’yung lagi there for friends and other people,” she looks back. The thought of leaving show business crossed her mind; maybe it was about time to take up that culinary venture she daydreamed about, baseball cap and sunglasses on, grocery-shopping ingredients for her latest Filipino fusion recipe, a combination of her family’s recipes and Mediterranean cuisine, her new favorite. She would check out locations and actually picture it: a casual dining restaurant? a bistro? at the same time, rumors of offers from a rival TV network would pop up, but she says these are completely unfounded. “Nasa point ako now na hindi na ako natatakot na wala akong love team. it’s not about the project. it’s about me as an actress. Alam ko basta okay ang project, i can stay for as long as i can,” she says. “Kung kaya ko pa, kung gusto pa ako ng tao, at kung willing pa ako mag work.” aBS-CBn’s Dreamscape rises
V. GuNo
Inquirer.net
to the challenge with a brief to directors onat Diaz and Lino Cayetano to create a dramatic vehicle for the actress Julia to grow into. They saw her tough side in “Doble Kara” and the public clamored for more. in “asintado,” she is ana, wrongly blamed by her sister (played by Shaina Magdayao) for killing their parents in a blaze. a love triangle (with Paulo avelino) starts the fiery series with characters all fighting for something. ana ends up murdered; Julia singles this out as one of the most challenging scenes she’s ever had to do because she ends up alive with a thirst for vengeance. as the title suggests, and as confirmed by the posters, she will be holding a gun at some point, so maybe those firing lessons will come in handy. But will ana pull the trigger? “How do you seek justice without being a purveyor of injustice? How do you slay a monster without becoming a monster yourself?” director Diaz asks, describing the character’s dilemma. Working with Julia for the first time, he recognizes the unique place from which she draws her strength to hit the target in ‘asintado.’ “This is the most challenging project Julia has ever encountered, even ‘Doble Kara’ — to play the character as believable and as sympathetic a manner as possible. off-camera, she’s a sensitive person…giving and very mindful of others. Her empathy is built-in. it’s why she can empathize with her characters
easily.” Lino, on the other hand, worked with Julia in “Mara Clara.” “i am amazed by her growth because of how talented she is and also the material that was given to her. it’s up to her to accept it or not, or how she will take the challenge, but with what’s given to her, from ‘Mara Clara’ to this, you can see where she took it.” The Julia we now see isn’t exactly that much stronger; she was just channeling all that inner strength in the wrong places. “in real life, urong-sulong ako, overthinking. Portraying ana is like telling myself, ‘You can do it. Do it, Julia!’” she admits. But what is “it”? She goes back to her new Year’s resolutions. She vows to work on her health and fitness for longevity. off-cam, Julia is practically the unofficial caterer of the asintado set, but she’s determined to legitimize it this year and make a business out of her cooking skills. “This year, i’ll say yes sa mga bagay na hindi ako open before, as long as my religion at pananaw ko as a woman, hindi masisira. Tapusin ko na ang fear, ang second thoughts,” she says of her career goals. She’s in luck; “asintado’s” storyline is bound to only get more challenging. Julia has the focus of a sharpshooter now — and the same faith to allow the elements to take hold as the bullet takes its course. She adds, as though offering us a bold assurance, “i’ll move forward.”
Her new look began turning heads even in 2017 when she graced the Vicki Belo and Hayden Kho wedding in France. in a September 2017 post, she said she abides by a ketogenic diet with the help of an app. But while she was 15 pounds lighter, the weight loss had an effect on her face. “My face was starting to tumble down,” she revealed. it was then that she turned to cosmetic procedures, giving her a fresh look despite decades on the screen. She said part of the shock factor of the billboard ad was possibly also because she showed more skin than usual and that her hair was in curls. “alam niyo na (as you know), a newscaster is always in corporate attire, balot na balot (all covered up), Korina Sanchez Photo from Instagram/@belobeauty haha!”
Gerald and Kim on moving on and being friends by Tessa
Mauricioa-arriola ManilaTimes.net
in the summer of 2017, popular actors Kim Chiu and Gerald anderson were feeling a bit jittery. They had been cast in the new aBS-CBn series “ikaw Lang ang iibigin,” which meant they would be working together again after a lengthy seven years, and more significantly a highly-publicized breakup. The Times attended the media conference announcing the show back in May last year where the exes made a genuine effort to make light of their past in front of the press, both agreeing they looked forward to giving the fans of their onscreen tandem—where their relationship had begun as well—the reunion for which they had patiently waited. Just before the weekend—eight months since successfully airing on aBS-CBn’s daytime line-up— Kim and Gerald faced the press anew, this time completely at ease with each other, excited to end the series amid high ratings. “There were many firsts for Kim and i in doing the show,” Gerald recalled. “it was our first time to be assigned to a daytime slot, and i must admit at the start, i was a little sad not be on prime time like before. i was also very nervous knowing the audience in
Gerald Anderson and Kim Chiu ABS-CBN photo
the mornings are different, but as ‘ikaw Lang ang iibign’ went on, i realized it doesn’t matter what timeslot you get so long as the show satisfies the viewers. it felt good to do something new and to entertain a new audience.” addressing the “Kimerald” [the Kim-Gerald tandem’s nickname] reunion, the “Pinoy Big Brother” discovery continued, “on working with Kim for the first time after
so long—and yes, after we broke up,” he chuckled, reading The Times’ mind, “we realized that despite everything we’ve been through—all the issues from the past—that we really love what we do, and we didn’t let any of that get in the way of working together. all we wanted was to give our best in show, for our viewers and i’m happy everything turned out really well.” in a separate conversation, Kim shared Gerald’s sentiments as she revealed, “We’ve really both matured—that’s what i realized. not just in acting but as individuals as well. We were able to set aside all the issues from before, and even during our run, and just focus on the work. So instead of feeling sad the show’s ending this coming week, i’m just thankful that it was successful and grateful for the opportunity to keep doing what i love.” indeed, 2017 was a banner year for Kim, especially in the last quarter where, besides “ikaw Lang ang iibigin,” she had her first ever solo starrer on the big screen with “The Ghost Bride” from Star Cinema. “To this day, i’m still thrilled to see myself on TV and in the cinema, and i’m looking forward to an-other year of projects this 2018,” she added.
B january 25-31, 2018 • LaS VEGaS aSIan jOurnaL
Features
Why newbie actor Joshua Garcia is considered John Lloyd Cruz 2.0 By Monet
Lu
I HAVE written about John Lloyd Cruz in my column, and while the title (above) seems deprecating to him, allow me to say that it has nothing to do with his performance nor his overall personality. John Lloyd will always be John Lloyd. This has more to do with the fact that these two actors would hold their own and have their own distinct style and persona that make each one unique. However, there is no denying that young actor Joshua Garcia has the makings of a “John Lloyd Cruz.” And while the latter is taking a hiatus from showbiz, people are really noticing how these two can be two sides of the same coin. If Joshua could learn all he could from his ‘predecessor’s’ craft and his life choices, he may actually turn out to be a 2.0 version. Joshua Garcia started out on the reality show “Pinoy Big Brother” back in 2014. Back then, he was this young, awkward 16-yearold boy from Batangas. Now 19 years old, the boy has turned into a young man and is considered one of ABS-CBN’s fast-rising male stars. He starred in three hit movies and three teleseryes. Joshua is the quintessential boy-next-door. He can play the role of a childish, hopeless romantic teenager and still pull off a serious and drama-heavy role with minimal effort. His smile can make a girl swoon but it’s his playful personality that makes him loveable to his fans and co-actors. Joshua strikes one as the guy who is still bewildered by their success, yet knows how not to waste it. I mean the guy takes his craft seriously! “Nineteen years old pa lang ako, pero sobrang sineseryoso ko ‘yong craft ko.” Joshua said in his YES! Magazine interview. “Ayaw nila ng pangit na pelikula. Kailangan talaga makipagsabayan. Pinipilit ko, ang hirap, ang galing ng mga kasama ko,” he said. His efforts do pay off as his movie “Vince & Kath & James” was an MMFF top grosser. Even though the movie’s material may not be as groundbreaking compared to its contemporaries, it became the festival’s highest grosser commending Joshua and his loveteam Julia Barreto’s acting.
EMPLOYMENT
Joshua Garcia
A year after their first movie together is a sophomore effort helmed by acclaimed rom-com director Antoinette Jadaone, Love You to the Stars and Back. He also starred in one of the top-rated MMK episodes. His latest and current teleserye, “The Good Son,” is getting even greater reviews, viewers are raving about it. The story may seem too familiar to Filipino viewers but it captures the familial aspect in the situation. In this case, it revolved around the ‘sons’ hence, the title. “The Good Son” is about a philandering husband who had two families, with one on the verge of falling apart. Victor Buenavidez (Albert Martinez), a successful businessman who toiled his way to the top is married to Olivia (Eula Valdez). They have two sons Enzo (Jerome Ponce) and Cal (Nash Aguas). The “other” family is a much meager home. Racquel (Mylene Dizon) who now has a son Obet (McCoy de Leon) with Matias (Ronnie Lazaro). Victor has a son, Jopet (Joshua Garcia) with Racquel. Things have gotten complicated as confrontations stared when Victor suddenly died. They wondered what had caused Victor’s sudden demise, or who was behind it—a fact that would turn their worlds upside down and baffle the minds of viewers. Playing Jopet’s role, Joshua’s talent shines like you’ve never seen it before. He shows depth in his acting–something that’s not easy for such a young actor but he is indeed showing some fine acting chops. And though we’re trying not to compare him to JLC
(John Lloyd Cruz), his ability to stand out with or without a leading lady is just undeniable. Speaking of leading lady, his onscreen partner Julia Barretto is a contributing factor to his success onscreen — maybe off-screen too — who knows? Their team-up is oozing with chemistry. It actually has the makings of the John Lloyd-Bea Alonzo magic. It may be too soon to tell but as far as the looks, charm, chemistry and acting skills are involved, they have what it takes. Aside from Julia Barretto, Joshua was also paired with Loisa Andalio, Kira Balinger, and Jane Oineza. And just like JLC, he pairs seamlessly with them, not outshining them or overshadowed by them — his versatility is outstanding. To Joshua Garcia, I see what people see in you — dedication. And though we see so much of JLC in you as well, we know that you can make a name for yourself. Version 2.0 or not, I hope you continue to love your craft by improving each time and make your own new and improved version. Good luck! *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration . To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com
EMPLOYMENT
http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678
Atom Araullo to appear in new travel, adventure show
NEwS reporter Atom Araullo will soon add a new show in his growing portfolio. Atom is set to launch and host AXN’s “Adventure Your way,” a weekly 30-minute travel show that aims to explore new adventures in Philippine destinations. AXN is yet to announce the airing date of the show. The show promises to be distinct by making viewers participate in its directions. Destinations will be chosen from suggestions on social media. “Each episode features Atom taking on challenging activities as he tries out the adventure of your choice without any itinerary and with only his phone and social media to guide him,” AXN’s news release read.
Araullo was a news reporter for ABS-CBN before he jumped ship and joined another television giant, GMA Network. He went on to film documen-
PAGE B2 bug” at age 20, beginning with starring in the Inland Valley Repertory Theatre’s production of “The King and I.” His resume has since spanned stage (“La Cage Aux Folles,” (“Beauty and the Beast,”) television (“Mom,” “Young & Hungry,” “Melissa & Joey,” “Modern Family”), film, and live shows at Disneyland and California Adventure (“Snow white: An Enchanting Musical,” “Frozen: Live at the Hyperion”). He was urged by friends to audition for Iago, which was being played by fellow Fil-Am Don Darryl Rivera on Broadway. “I kind of always kept my eye on [the role] because I had a number of friends tell me that whenever ‘Aladdin’ was auditioning that I need to go in because if it’s like if you were to see a picture of Don Rivera and me,” he said. “Even I have a difficult time… it’s difficult to discern who’s who. I would get a picture of him and be like, ‘That’s me! Oh wait no, that’s Don.’ So we look very similar. we also have very similar mannerisms.” De Leon recounted that in LA, he initially auditioned to be a Broadway replacement for Iago. However, a year later, he tried out again for the part in New York for the national tour and was eventually invited for a callback, which Disney flew him out for. In the span of a few days, he officially got the role. “I was just enamored with Don Darryl’s interpretation of it. And of course, growing up watching
the movie, Gilbert Gottfried left an indelible mark in my mind with the character. I love Iago. So he was a really fun character and is definitely one of my favorite characters in the movie,” he said. “So I kind of try to incorporate a little bit of both of their work and of course, bring my interpretation to it as well. So in the end, it’s sort of like a fusion: Don Darryl, Gilbert Gottfried and myself, if that makes any sense.” with daily performances from Tuesday to Friday and twice a day on Saturday and Sunday, De Leon emphasized the importance of keeping energetic and healthy to deliver strong performances. “It’s not really fair to call it work because basically I just feel like I get to play with my friends for two and a half hours. I just consider myself so blessed to be here and to be a part of this family because we really have become a family. You know when you’re on the road, you’re away from your family and so by extension, your co-workers and castmates become your family. we have a wonderful, wonderful bond,” he said. As “Aladdin” stays in Los Angeles until March, De Leon and Jacobs invite Fil-Ams to come out and enjoy the performance. “It’s cool when I go to the stage door and greet a lot of Filipino Americans who just feel happy to see somebody of Filipino descent standing up there. I always go to the stage to greet the fans, it’s just part of my routine,” Jacobs said. “I like to do that and see how the show has impacted them.”
Atom Araullo
Philstar.com photo
taries on international issues. He also launched a web series under GMA Network, “Adulting with Atom Araulo.” (Camille Diola/Philstar.com)
The Fil-Am stars of Disney’s ‘Aladdin’...
EMPLOYMENT
FOR RENT
Fil-Am Adam Jacobs as the title role of Aladdin, performing “Proud of Your Boy.” Photo by Cylla von Tiedemann
De Leon remarked that in the first week alone, he’s “had close to 100 family and friends already come and see the show.” “If you’re a fan of Disney, you grew up in the time of the movie, and you have that nostalgia feeling about it. It’s a really fun two and a half hours and that will take you away from all those troubles you might be experiencing in the world today,” De Leon said. “And to be able to see some Filipinos on stage representing is kind of a cool thing. I know I’m always so proud, whether it be theater, film or a TV show, and I see a Filipino out there because it’s challenging. It’s not easy to make a career out of this. And when somebody is able to, it’s like a victory for all of us.”
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Community Journal
H-1B cap season is just around the corner: Recent changes in H-1B adjudication you should know about before filing Your Immigration Solution Atty. BrittAny MilliASSeAu & nAnCy Miller Over the last few months there have been numerous changes in immigration law and policy. In fact, it is extremely difficult to browse through a newspaper or flip through television channels without reading or hearing at least one story about immigration. While many of the headlines have focused on topics such as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), the travel ban, immigration raids, and the end of Temporary Protected Status for thousands of individuals from war torn and disaster stricken countries, there have also been several changes in employmentbased immigration that generally have not been as extensively covered by mainstream news media. One particular employmentbased immigration program that has seen various changes within the last few months has been the H-1B program, which allows companies in the United States to temporarily employ foreign nationals in a “specialty occupation.” A “specialty occupation” is an occupation that requires theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and attainment of a bachelor’s degree. Certain positions that may qualify as specialty occupations include engineers, teachers, physicians, lawyers, and architectures. Traditionally, one of the biggest hurdles to obtaining an H-1B visa was being selected in the H-1B lottery system. The yearly number of H-1B visas allocated by Congress is 65,000, with an additional 20,000 allocated for individuals who have earned a Master’s degree or higher from a U.S. university. Typically, there are far many more H-1B petitions submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS),
which creates the need for a computer-generated random selection process, or H-1B lottery system. For example, last year USCIS received nearly 200,000 H-1B petitions during the filing period. As mentioned above, traditionally one of the most difficult parts of the H-1B application process was actually getting selected in the lottery, however as of recently, selection under the H-1B Cap is just where the process begins as adjudication of H-1B applications has become highly scrutinized. In April 2017, President Trump signed an executive order titled “Buy American and Hire American” which was aimed at creating higher wages and employment rates for U.S. workers and protecting their economic interests. The executive order specifically discussed the H-1B visa program and directed federal agencies to make sure that H-1B visas are awarded to the “most-skilled or highest-paid petition beneficiaries.” Following the implementation of this executive order, there have been widespread reports of governmental challenges to H-1B visa adjudication such as an increase in the number of requests for evidence (rFes) issued by USCIS. Certain reports show an increase of 44% as compared with last year. In addition, USCIS updated its policy guidance instructing officers to apply the same level of scrutiny to both initial H-1B petitions and requests for H-1B extensions. As a result, individuals who have been in H-1B status for many years have begun receiving complex rFes or even denials, after USCIS has already previously approved their application. Under prior policy, officers were allowed to give deference to the findings of a previously approved petition as long as certain elements were unchanged and there was no evidence of fraud, however this is no longer the case. In addition to substantive changes, USCIS also slowed down the H-1B adjudication process by suspending “premium processing” of all H-1B petitions which has resulted in lengthy adjudication times, often
placing a strain on employers and beneficiaries. recently, reports surfaced stating that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was considering new regulations that would change H-1B extension rules, limiting the ability of H-1B workers who are in the process of receiving their green cards to obtain H-1B extensions beyond the sixth-year maximum. While these rumors have been debunked, USCIS has confirmed that the “agency is considering a number of policy and regulatory changes to carry out the President’s Buy American, Hire American executive Order, including a thorough review of employment based visa programs.” As approvals of initial and extension H-1B petitions become increasingly difficult, it is now more important than ever to ensure that you are represented by knowledgeable and highly competent immigration counsel throughout the entire H-1B application process. During the first week of April, USCIS will begin accepting H-1B cap-subject petitions. As such, it is important to consult with an experienced immigration attorney as soon as possible to begin the preparation process as well as to discuss options in the event of a petition rejection or issuance of a complex rFe. It is also important to meet with an experienced immigration attorney to explore whether an H1B visa is the most suitable option for you or your company. *** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration fi rms in the United States with offi ces in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Manila and China. For more Information please call (800) 7958009 or visit www.rreeves.com. Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case. (Advertising Supplement)
The ‘Selfies’ generation idolatry on steroids Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA (Part 1 of 2) A ‘SeLFIe’ is a do-it-yourself self-portrait using a handheld digital camera or the now ubiquitous cellphone. A ‘selfie’ can be taken for laughs. But more often than not, it is for the purpose of immediate electronic posting in any one of the social networks, usually Facebook or Instagram for all to see. In our electronic world, it is a way of attracting or demanding attention, sort of saying to your world of followers or connections, “Look at me. Look at me.” The most famous ‘selfie’ is the one taken by one of 3 heads of state (USA, Denmark and the UK) during the funeral of Nelson Mandela. That ‘selfie’ created a big flap for its impropriety considering the somber occasion. It also reportedly became a source of jealousy and frosty discord in the White
Health@Heart PhiliP S. ChuA, Md, FACS, FPCS ADvANCeS in science and technology bolster progress in almost all facets of human endeavor, making most (unfortunately, not all) people more comfortable, more efficient, and productive, not to mention other benefits we derive from them as individuals and as a society. The birth of the mind-boggling computer ushered in one of the brightest inventions of man, which enabled the exponential developments and proliferation of very efficient machines, devices, and gadgets. Just like most progress, the computer age also brings with it some health, behavioral, social, and even legal consequences. Its abuse leads to electronic addiction. Much like dealing with drugs, tobacco, and alcohol, personal and societal discipline is fundamental. Of the 7 billion people on earth, 6.8 billion have mobile phones. In the United States, 92 percent have their own mobile phone. In the Philippines, there
“Vanity of vanities; All is vanity.” –Ecclesiastes House. The blonde Danish head was flanked by 2 men in that photo while Michelle Obama sat on one side of the President, looking appropriately somber and visibly unimpressed by the juvenile stunt. I have used that cellphone feature myself a few times. It is convenient not to have to impose on someone else to take a photo of yourself on your cellphone. Although I must say the results of all those close-up ‘selfie’ shots with a moon face and all the eye bags and the wrinkles magnified are strong arguments against selfies. Not to worry though, vanity will always find a way. There are telescopic, retractable sticklike gadgets you can buy that you can place your cellphone at one end that enables one to take shots of yourself farther than your arm and hand can manage. There are even apps you can use to correct that physical limitation of arm’s length. The ‘selfie’ is a telling indica-
tor of the age we live in. We cry for and demand attention from others. There are those who are falling in love with their own images, their own thoughts and their cyber persona thinking they have thousands of followers. Some even think they have become legends in their own minds. They believe the world revolves around them and that their personal happiness is paramount. Following the lead of celebrities in the sports and entertainment world, we are being led to believe that life is all about I, Me and Myself at center stage. The songs and stories in popular media all amplify and sell the story of self-love as the highest form of love. It isn’t. We have all the electronic tools for self-absorption at hand these days: camera phones, computers, tablets, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and other forms of social media and the unceasing, unrelenting PAGE B6
Electronic addicts are about 30.4 million mobile phone users in 2017. There are 84 percent of Americans who have a computer, and 73 percent of them have Internet connection. Tablets for kids are very popular today. When was the word “computer” coined? It was in 1613 when the word “computer” was first used, describing a human who performed calculations. This word lingered until the industrial revolution at the end of the 19th century developed machines whose main purpose was calculating. The first automatic computing machine was developed by Charles Babbage in 1822, but it was 15 years later when he proposed the first general mechanical computer, which was called the Analytical engine. The first electromechanical binary programmable functional computer, called Z1, was created by Konrad Zuse, a German, in his parents’ living room between 1936 and 1938. The computers then were huge, occupying an entire room, compared to today’s miniature and a lot more powerful devices. But the foundation for theories on computing and computers were originally pro-
posed by Alan Turing in 1936, called the Turing machine. The fundamentals Turing set have enabled the development of our computers of today. When was the portable computer born? Osborne I, released on April 1981, was truly the first portable computer or laptop, developed by Adam Osborne. It weighed 24.5 pounds, with a 5-inch display, 64 KB of memory, two floppy drives, and ran the CP/M 2.2 operating system, and a modem, priced at $1,795. It was in 1975 when ed roberts came up with the term “personal computer, introducing his Altair 8800, although many considered Kenbak-1, which came out in 1971 for $750 as the first personal computer. Is computer addiction real? Yes, it is. I know because I love electronics and feel the temptation. Usually it is a combination of computer (internet) addiction and cell phone (text or call) addiction. The signs and symptoms are very obvious among young and old alike, and even among toddlers. They would rather delay everything else, even their meals or sleep, in favor of computing, browsing, PAGE B6
LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 25-31, 2018
Calendar of Events across
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America
ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS JA N UA Ry 25
Immigration forum in Anaheim, CA There will be an immigration forum on Thursday, January 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Brookhurst Community Center (2271 Crescent Ave., Anaheim, CA 92801). RSVP is a MUST to attend. No registration fee required. Please contact (714) 657-7460 or admin@globallawcenters.com. The immigration forum is about employment-based immigration information regarding FAST TRACK Work Visas ( H-1B1, TN, E-3), green card by marriage, family-based immigration employment sponsorship for green card and work visas after graduation. Candidates with H-1B, TN, F-1, OPT & other visas issues are encouraged to attend for a FREE immigration consultation & immigration assistance. As you have already seen there are many changes happening in the field of immigration with regards to the new executive administration and their agenda. Global Law Centers strives to inform the immigrant community of its rights and make sure it is knowledgeable about what immigration processes might be available. The forum will also update everyone about new and recent changes which may affect immigrants and their families.
Asian American Professional Association intro session in Rosemead, CA Join the Asian American Professional Association (AAPA) introductory session on Thursday, January 25! Hear from Paul Park, Founder and CEO at American Dream Builders Now Inc. As a “Gold Miner” Paul’s mission is to search and help develop hidden potential, inspire, and motivate others to dream big. He believes “If you can dream it, you can do it. Build your dream and it will build you.” During the second half meet and interact with AAPA Mentors! Registration begins at 5:30 p.m., with the program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. It will be at Southern California Edison, GO-1 Employee Lounge at 2244 Walnut Grove Ave., Rosemead, CA. It is free and open to all professionals. To RSVP, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/aapaintroductory-session-tickets-40791228663.
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SIPA hosts Pinay Empowerment Brunch in Los Angeles Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA) will host its second Pinay Empowerment Brunch on Sunday, January 28 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It will be held at BARKADA (1253 Vine Street, Hollywood, CA). The event will feature a panel with Cher Calvin (KTLA 5 TV), Isa Fabro (Chef, Unit 120), Janelle S. Foster (BET/Viacom), and Kimmy Maniquis (California Conference for Equality & Justice). It will be moderated by Rob Asghar (author/commentator whose work has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, CNN, Forbes, etc). To purchase tickets, please visit: https://sipa.ticketsocket.com/event/PINAY-EMPOWERMENTBRUNCH-II. $30 online pre-sale/$40 general admission. Ticket includes a gourmet Pilipino brunch by Barkada.
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TFCU talks heads to UC Davis TFCU Talks will be in Davis, California on Saturday, February 3, 2018. An affiliate of ABSCBN International, TFCU Talks Davis will feature a lineup of top industry leaders to connect, inspire, and empower college students and young professionals to help them realize their full potential. TFCU Talks Davis is co-presented by Mga Kapatid (My Brothers and Sisters) - a social, political, cultural, and academic organization for the Pilipino-American community at UC Davis. The event takes place at the Wyatt Pavilion Theatre in UC Davis (Arboretum Dr, Davis, CA 95616). Speakers include Christine Gambito (comedian, YouTube personality), Sydney Loyola (trans choreographer), Rudy Corpuz Jr. (co-founder of United Playaz), and Mike Sagun (career coach). TFCU Talks Davis is an exclusive free event with limited seating - first come, first served. For all ticketing information, and to reserve your spot, please visit tfcudavis.eventbrite.com.
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Annual dinner/dance at St. Finbar School in Burbank, California You are invited to the annual dinner/dance at the Albert Hall of St. Finbar School (2120 W. Olive Ave Burbank, CA 91506) on Saturday, February 10 from 6:30 to 11:00 p.m. For tickets, please call: Marian Nobleza at (818) 562-6819.
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“Usapang Pagkain”: A monthly series exploring wellness with Filipino cuisine in Chicago, IL Community-based organization AFIRE (Alliance of Filipinos For Immigrants Rights & Empowerment) and food media and events group Filipino Kitchen will explore wellness and health with Filipino Cuisine in a monthly series, Usapang Pagkain. The event series is free and open to the community. Each event will highlight a Filipino dish or dishes, including recipes. During the weekday evening events, a light dinner of the highlighted dishes will be provided. Made possible with a grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, the purpose of the series is to explore how Filipino food can best serve our community. On Tuesday, February 20 from 6 to 8 p.m., the focus is “Healthy & Happy Hearts.” The event will take place at the Hana Center (4300 N. California Ave., Chicago, IL). Schedule and venues are subject to change, please check http://afirechicago.org and http://filipino.kitchen for the most up-to-date information.
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Immigration forum in Anaheim, CA There will be an immigration forum on Thursday, February 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Brookhurst Community Center (2271 Crescent Ave., Anaheim, CA 92801). RSVP is a MUST to attend. No registration fee required. Please contact (714) 657-7460 or admin@globallawcenters.com. The immigration forum is about employment-based immigration information regarding FAST TRACK Work Visas ( H-1B1, TN, E-3), green card by marriage, family-based immigration employment sponsorship for green card and work visas after graduation. Candidates with H-1B, TN, F-1, OPT & other visas issues are encouraged to attend for a FREE immigration consultation & immigration assistance. As you have already seen there are many changes happening in the field of immigration with regards to the new executive administration and their agenda. Global Law Centers strives to inform the immigrant community of its rights and make sure it is knowledgeable about what immigration processes might be available. The forum will also update everyone about new and recent changes which may affect immigrants and their families.
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Filipino well-being training summit in Los Angeles
This training summit aims to honor and recognize indigenous understanding of wellness and healing; reduce stigma associated with emotional and mental illness; and promote community dialogue and connectivity. It is organized by the Filipino Well Being Training Summit Committee led by the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health. It’ll be held on Saturday, February 24 at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, 555 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 at 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more info and to register, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/filipino-well-being-training-summit-registration-41880032304. NOTE: This event is free of charge to all attendees. Breakfast and lunch will be served on a limited capacity and may not be available to all attendees. Space is limited - please cancel on Eventbrite if you are unable to attend so others on the waiting list can be notified and accommodated.
City of Carson Gala Ball The City of Carson, California is marking its 50th anniversary of incorporation on Saturday, February 24 with a gala ball. It will be held at Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald Community Center at Carson (801 E. Carson Street, Carson, CA 90745) at 6 p.m. Tickets are $50 / person and $400 / table (seats 8). For more information, please call the Community Center at (310) 835-0212 or visit ci.carson.ca.us.
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Philippine American Bar Association’s 32nd installation and awards gala in Los Angeles The Philippine American Bar Association (PABA) invites you to its 32nd Installation and Awards Gala on Wednesday, March 14. This year’s Gala will feature keynote speaker California Supreme Court Justice Goodwin Liu, a menu of Filipino flavors, and special performances. During the gala, PABA also will formally unveil its new logo and website, both of which were developed by a Fil-Am-owned start-up and involve colors and designs deeply rooted in the cultural history of the Philippines. To purchase tickets or a sponsorship, please visit: https://www.z2systems.com/np/clients/paba/giftstore.jsp.
If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com
B january 25-31, 2018 • LaS VEGaS aSIan jOurnaL
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Agot Isidro ‘gender bends’ in ‘Changing Partners’ The ‘Selfies’ generation... by Jerry
Donato
Philstar.com
As Alex, Agot Isidro “gender bends” (or defies gender stereotypes) in the 2017 Cinema One Originals Film Festival entry, Changing Partners. Her character challenges the binary (male-female) notions about gender as well as those roles played by Jojit Lorenzo, Anna Luna and sandino Martin. The Dan Villegas musical film will have its mainstream theatrical release starting Jan. 31. “Alex is a cougar in a hetero relationship,” Agot laid the groundwork, so to speak, of her character who finds love in Cris, during a media call. “she is older than her partner. I also play Alex, the gay female, who is in a relationship with a younger gay female.” Don’t get (mental) cross-eyed. There’s more to it. According to Agot, the female Alex “is successful, career-driven. If that’s the case, she is not quite able to focus on love,” and, as you and I know, she meets a younger man. “she has just fallen in love — umibig lang talaga, tinamaan (lang) siya,” she added. In the name of love, lovers oftentimes are brave — and blind. “To the point that she has a bit neglected her career, she is just not bothered whatever one says,” shared Agot. “she just shrugged it off because she loves the person. Oo, nag-let go siya kumbaga. Actually, it’s a big investment for Alex kasi parang di-ne-fy niya yung sasabihin
ng mga tao, pati kasi yung may economic aspect, mas mayaman yung Alex eh. Hindi niya iniinda yung sasabihin ng tao na baka pineperahan ka lang. so, she has really invested a lot in this relationship.” so, what’s clear is Agot inhabits two personas and so Alex does. “It’s one story. Yes, I played both gay and straight,” she said. “Changing Partners,” based on the PETA musical created by Vincent de Jesus, is another welcome narrative to the growing gender discourse and its fluidity. It will engender talks to further understand the intricacies of gender — as well as relationships. Aside from the movie title, what piques one’s attention is the “game” being played on the characters’ names. There are two Alexes and two Crises. “Androgynous,” as Agot put it. The names Alex and Cris can refer to a girl or a boy, and even the name of another character, Angel. With that, “Changing Partners” presents an interesting plot — laced with twists and turns as for perspectives — that compels audiences to sit down from the beginning till the end. Whether the story is about a couple or two couples, the audience is given the liberty to find the answer and navigate the narrative that touches on gender and romantic relationships. If Rashomon presents two versions of truth, “Changing Partners” gives one reality or truth: Love is
Agot Isidro co-stars (from left) Sandino Martin, Jojit Lorenzo and Anna Luna. Philstar.com photo
love — regardless the gender of the giver and receiver of it. What were her lessons learned about love during filming “Changing Partners”? “Ang mga natutunan ko at natutunan ko rin sa totoong buhay that love is sacrifice, love is masakit but also love is masarap at sumasakit in the end,” answered Agot. “But I think it’s a reality that everyone goes through. It’s very universal. Lahat ng tao nakakadama ng ganyan.” As for those who live and love the way Alex and Cris do in the movie, Agot had this to say: “It’s
a choice. I don’t judge anyone (when we speak of) gender choice or preference. Girl na girl ako. But I have strong relations or relationships, friendships with any of the sexes or genders. I’m not judgmental when it comes (to gender preference). I don’t see any problems having friendships or good relations with all genders…Hindi natin alam ang ganyang pangyayari. Love is love. You don’t know what will hit us. Sana hindi ako i-judge later on, kung ganun ang (mang)yayari. We should be open-minded. For now, I’m a girl.”
PAGE B5 advertising messages that prick and capitalize on our vanity. Advertisers know our hot buttons and the messages they cleverly craft and send are designed to keep pressing those buttons until we succumb and buy what we are being sold. self-absorption is certainly not a new phenomenon. It is probably written in the human DNA from the beginning but is just more widespread because of the available technological platform to profess self-love. Advanced, wealthy civilizations in history have fallen for the same trap. Maybe it’s time to dredge out those stories from mythology, told and retold from the distant past, so we can better understand how to deal with this interesting yet disconcerting trend and see how too much self-absorption driven by obsession can eventually lead to despondency and unhappiness. The antidote to self-absorption, just like for many ills that plague our world today, is still the same as it was in the past — love and concern for others, interest in the well-being of someone or being involved in something bigger, higher, loftier than one’s self. The idea of sacrifice still remains the most concrete, visible form of love for another. In an age of instant gratification, sacrifice has become passé, a thing of the past. And that, perhaps, is the reason for much of the world’s troubles these days. In the end, happiness finally comes with the humble awareness and quiet appreciation of what was, what is and what is yet to come — right now, right here where we live our days and nights, just within the small circle consisting of ourselves and our loved ones, without demanding attention from others. Do remember that not everyone is rooting for you. If we think we have become stars in the firmament because of our own self-absorption, here’s a story from Greek mythology to help bring us down a notch back to terra firma with a soft, gentle thud. Long ago when enchanted creatures peopled the earth, there was a nymph called Echo. she probably rated a nine and a half on a 10 point-attractiveness scale, gorgeous, knowledgeable and perfect in every
way except for one thing — she was a chatterbox without equal. she liked to hear herself talk far too much and perhaps, with a tinge of hubris, would insist on having the last word in every conversation. Juno, the queen of the Gods, was so irked by Echo’s habit that she meted out a punishment just for her. Echo will no longer be able to talk, except for one tiny concession — she will be able to say only the last word. In the same forest where the nymphs lived, there was a young man named Narcissus who was so classically handsome and perfectly proportioned that all the nymphs oohed and ahhed and fell in love with him at first sight. Picture Michelangelo’s marble sculpture of “David” in flesh and blood. If he were real person today, he would have made the cover of People’s sexiest Man of the Year.” His fans became legion. All that adulation got into his head. He became extremely vain. No nymph was good enough for him. One day, Echo espied Narcissus while he was hunting with his peers and fell in love with him like a ton of bricks. she longed to tell him of her feelings, but in her afflicted state, she became painfully shy and simply contented herself silently watching him from a distance, shadowing Narcissus’ every move. Narcissus, however, became aware of her shadowy presence and talked her out of her hiding place. Echo could only repeat the last words of what Narcissus was saying in their conversation so she may have came out sounding like a mindless idiot, vexing the vain Narcissus. Besotted with love for the hunk however and believing Narcissus’ plea that she come out so they can be joined together, she finally overcame her crippling shyness and revealed herself. However, Narcissus felt she wasn’t good enough for him and snubbed her. He scorned her for her bold presumptuousness and repudiated her. He sent her away in the most cutting words swearing he would rather die than be with Echo. (To be continued …) *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com
Electronic addicts
PAGE B5 doing social media, or gaming, or texting or calling. They sleep and wake up with a cell phone or tablet or laptop in bed. Lo-bat drives them anxious and angry, and toddlers have been known to throw tantrums and cry. How serious is the problem? The situation is getting more and more serious around the world where these devices are available. Parents are quite aware of this addiction, saying this is a new form of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), labeling it computer/mobile phone ADD. Pediatricians and psychologists are seeing more and more adolescents and even toddlers with this problem. school performance suffers too. Those addicted to computer games have increased risk for restlessness, anxiety, depression, weight gain, and metabolic syndrome. Carpal Tunnel and vision problem is also common from computer abuse. The question of radiation is still an unsettled matter, even with the use of mobile phones. What is the social impact of this addiction? Electronic addicts keep to themselves. They are in their own private world for hours, no talking to anyone, not even to one another, much less their parents. The same goes true with toddlers, who would develop attention deficit, with their external (non-electronic) environment, poor eating habit, slower speech development, and diminished social skills. These are also found among older children and some adults. There were reports that kids had threatened to shoot their parents for cutting their computer use. Misuse or abuse of social media could also ruin privacy, invite identity theft, expose children/teenagers to dangerous situations from criminals, and potential legal dilemmas. Does this addiction affect family life? Definitely. When everybody, parents included, go separate ways at home, in their own little cocoon, their own private world, with their electronic device, and not talk to each other, or even eat or pray together, family bonding is negatively impacted. Unless wise and sober house rules are promulgated by both parents and siblings with regards to the use of electronic devices, includ-
ing computer toys, electronic addiction could destroy the family and the individual members. Imagine the children not paying attention to their parents, or grandparents, or to each other, or even to their friends in school, who are likewise addicted. When electronics is not only a part of children’s life but the only life they have, they will face a future of health, social, and psychological issues. To the addicts, the real life becomes boring, the virtual world, exciting. Are electronic devices that bad? Of course not. These wonderful devices can enable adults, children, and toddlers to expand their vision, knowledge, skills, and help fulfill their dreams with a treasury of information and data, all available in split seconds, at their fingertips. The regular use of Alexa, Cortana, siri, Google Assistant, or Google itself is not only convenient but efficient and a joy. They are enhancers, enablers, and facilitators, providing the user instant access to information, time, weather, music, restaurant or movie reservations, shopping, and hundreds of other uses. Artificial intelligence, robots included, would someday be a regular household fixture for most, if not all, homes. The Internet today allows you to journey all around the galaxy, without having to leave your home or office, saving you gasoline and airfares. And they are very entertaining too. When used for family game or entertainment, etc., electronics are good for bonding. The kitchen knife could be used to prepare meals for your loved ones, or used to hurt them or yourself. All really depends on how you intelligently and wisely you use the electronic devices you have. They are actually magical gems that even elevate the level of the happy hormones in us. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com
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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 25-31, 2018
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The day Sofia Zobel-Elizalde met prima ballerina Stella Abrera by Igan
D’Bayan Philstar.com
This was how sofia ZobelElizalde, the founder and director of steps Dance studio, met prima ballerina stella Abrera, the first Filipino-American to become a principal in the prestigious American Ballet Theater. About two years ago, steven Mitchell — a pianist who has accompanied and performed with some of the most renowned dance organizations in the U.s., and a friend of sofia in New York — told her that she should meet this ballet dancer who happens to be Filipina. he invited stella and sofia to dinner, and they really hit it off. “stella is a wonderful artist and a lovely person,” shares sofia. “she told me, ‘Let’s find a moment where i can bring a small group of dancers from ABT (American Ballet Theatre) to the Philippines to perform. it has been my dream to give back in some way to my countrymen.” Upon learning that the entire dance troupe had an engagement in hong Kong for a full-length ballet, stella called up sofia and told her, “This is our opportunity.” An
idea was hatched for a small gala, where stella and her good friends from the ballet company can perform in a more intimate setting. “An intimate Evening with stella Abrera and American Ballet stars” will be staged at the Maybank Performance Arts Theater in Bonifacio Global City from April 5 to 7 in time for the 20th anniversary of CENTEX (Center of Excellence in Public Elementary Education), which is Ayala Foundation’s flagship education program. stella Abrera — who made her Manila debut in Ballet Philippines’ 2014 production of Giselle — will be joined onstage by fellow American Ballet Theatre stars Alban Lendorf, Arron scott, Blaine hoven, Catherine hurlin, Gillian Murphy, isabella Boylston, Roman Zhurbin and Jose sebastian. “Right after my conversation with stella,” recalls sofia, “i called up Joanna Duarte and Ruel Maranan (of Ayala Foundation) and — again — i think the stars were aligned.” it so happened that CENTEX is celebrating its 20th anniversary and a fund-raiser is in the works. something synchronous: stella Abrera is known for her com-
passion for the less fortunate. she set up a small charity (steps Forward for the Philippines) to help a school that had been destroyed by super-typhoon haiyan (Yolanda). And, when she last performed in Manila, she even visited students in Guiuan in Eastern samar during breaks between rehearsals and handed out school supplies. That’s how the whole project came together, says sofia. “it just practically fell on my lap.” involved also in the project are production designer Gino Gonzales (who recently won an award for his work in Larawan) and Mia Borromeo (whom sofia describes as “someone who turns everything she touches into something beautiful…”). CENTEX provides a holistic learning experience for bright students from underprivileged families, as well as their parents and public school teachers. To date, over 1,500 students have graduated from CENTEX’s two campuses in Tondo, Manila, and Bauan, Batangas. But CENTEX goes beyond basic education; art is an essential component inside the halls of the center.
Joanna Duarte explains, “The fact that we have sofia (for dance) and Coke Bolipata (for music) is something really beneficial for the students. Put any kid — whether underprivileged or not — in an arts program and they will thrive. Dance is such a difficult endeavor, you learn about teamwork, selfconfidence, thinking on your feet, how to channel grit — all the life lessons are there.” sofia talks about a curious and charming request from stella. “When we were conceptualizing the program, i really wanted it to be stella’s show. But she said to me, ‘sofia, i want some of your students to dance.’ And i thought, oh my God, they’re going to have a heart attack when they find out they’re going to dance with these big stars. When i eventually told the kids, there was silence, mouths were hanging (laughs).” But the prima ballerina was insistent. she told sofia, “We want to show what dance training has done for these children, and if we’re raising money for CENTEX, i want people to see what the dance program has done.” The viewers are in for a treat.
Sofia Zobel-Elizalde (center) says she is working on this project for CENTEX with her dream team: (From left) Mia Borromeo, Ayala Foundation Inc. president Ruel Maranan, Ayala Foundation senior director for programs Joanna Duarte, and production designer Gino Gonzales. Philstar.com photos by Geremy Pintolo
The program boasts the classic balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet, as well as the dynamic pas de deux from Flames of Paris. The Don Quixote suite opens with six scholars who will be dancing as toreadors — six strong boys who entered CENTEX as playful tykes. Two girls will be featured in the more technically challenging Flower Duet. sofia thinks they have the makings to become professional
Stella Abrera
dancers someday. “Maybe they will even become a part of the American Ballet Theatre. My mom (Bea) and dad (Don Jaime) are very excited. They are very supportive of everything that the foundation does — but dance is really close to their hearts.”
Asian Journal Launches the 2018 Love of Country Global Ambassadors Program Starting in the USA Dare to lead, dare to inspire, dare to be great. As part of their continued mission to empower Overseas Filipinos and to promote tourism, investment, studying abroad, entrepreneurship, and retirement in the Philippines, the Asian Journal officially launches the 2018 Love of Country Global Ambassadors Program. The Love of Country Global Ambassadors Program seeks highly competitive and ambitious Filipino women and men who aim to fuel the economic growth and development of the Philippines, inspire their local Filipino communities, and thus, transform the Filipino future. The program welcomes women and men in four different age brackets to apply—that no one is too young or too old to create a positive change in the world and pursue their dreams, goals, and ambitions. Individuals selected to participate will receive prizes, invaluable professional networks and career opportunities in addition to a 14-Day all expense paid trip to the Philippines which will be filled with cultural immersion, exploration of tourist destinations, philanthropy and humanitarian work, artist, business, and leadership training, to investment insights. “In its pure essence, the Love of Country Ambassadors Program is about the sustainability and continued progression of the Overseas Filipino Community, Balikbayans, and also supporting the present and future economic health of the Philippines. Our great nation relies heavily on the support of overseas Filipinos to provide a quality of life for their loved ones back home. They pay for real estate, health insurance, a car, education, food, a smartphone, internet—you name it. But with immigration policies becoming stricter worldwide, the volatility of the global economy and geopolitics, coupled with an ageing population such as the baby-boomer generation preparing for retirement and a disconnected 2nd and 3rd generation of overseas Filipinos, we may see a profound slowdown in remittance,” said Roger Oriel, Publisher and Chief Executive Officer of Asian Journal Media Group.
“This not only supports loved ones, but drives consumption which supports many businesses and so there is a ripple effect. If consumer spending is down, think about all those jobs in the Philippines and the loved ones that those jobs support. So number 1, our program hopes to ignite, drive, and fuel foreign travel, investment, studying abroad, entrepreneurship, and retirement in the Philippines. And number 2, the opportunity to win a free trip to the Philippines is truly a gift to all Overseas Filipinos—our modern day heroes,” he continued. The Concept of the Program In an interview with Raphael John Oriel, the program’s co-founder, current Editor-in-Chief of Balikbayan Magazine, and Chief Business Development Officer of the Asian Journal Media Group said, “For several years now, one of the recurring questions that I’ve encountered from both readers and clients was how can we connect Overseas Filipinos back to the country, especially those who have already assimilated to the country they moved to or were born and raised in—that 2nd and 3rdgeneration of Filipinos. I see on my Facebook that my Filipino friends and family go travel to other Asian Countries and I’m thinking, why? How do I make them choose the Philippines instead? Why are they going to Thailand or Hawaii or wherever really instead of going to the Philippines? So for quite some time now, I’ve been studying what other countries do. So when I travelled to Israel for 3 weeks a few years ago to study and learn about their culture and tourism, I came across their program, Birthright Israel, which is an incredibly brilliant and spectacular program that truly connects and educates young Jewish people all around the World. It’s fascinating—those who participated in that program either visit Israel once a year, invested in the country, or actually moved back. But the most important thing was having an amazing sense of cultural pride after the program. After that trip, I returned to the Philippines and attended a beauty pageant—one of the more popular ones in the country. I spoke to
many of the contestants after the competition and came to learn that there is no life sustainability or career support after they participate in those programs. The women who participate in those things end up getting exploited— have no choice but to become escorts, lack college degrees so they can’t find jobs, or even end up as single mothers. It made me incredibly angry— so we designed a program to help resolve some of these pressing issues. To be clear, I’m certainly not saying that beauty pageants are evil because they’re not. I have good friends in that industry who are truly good people. And those who participate can be incredibly inspiring and can receive a livelihood after joining. But there’s a dark side to that light. Our program, despite having a coronation and gala night is not a beauty pageant—our program is a cultural pageant and educational tourism program.” The Trip To The Philippines “We are greatly looking forward to welcoming our inaugural class’ arrival in the Philippines. We’re putting together a comprehensive, exhilarating, challenging, yet fun 14-day cultural and adventure tour of the Philippines. Our goal is to create life-changing experiences and have our delegates say that they don’t want to leave or can’t wait to come back. And lastly, to encourage their friends, families, and colleagues to participate in our program. We are starting with the Filipino-American community this year, but by next year in 2019, we are looking to activate the program all throughout the World,” said Shannon Bridgman, Program Director of the 2018 Love of Country Global Ambassadors Program and former Miss Philippines Earth-Air 2016. The Asian Journal Media Group, now approaching three decades in business, is a leading Filipino multimedia agency serving the global Filipino industry. Asian Journal publishes over 7 million weekly communaity newspapers annually in the USA from California, Nevada, New York, to New Jersey. In addition to this, the Asian Journal also publishes a quarterly mag-
The Founders of Pageantry Global, Inc. and 2nd batch of participants of the Love of Country Ambassadors in different categories (Mrs. Love of Country, Miss Youth Love of Country and Miss Love of Country Ambassadors met at the office of Asian Journal Publications, Inc in Glendale, California last weekend for orientation.
(L-R) Jacqueline Albay-Yenney, Jeddah Berame, Maria Arianna Conechado, Kimberly Pearl Marquez, Nathalie Barry, Gabbie Pangan, Trinity Foliente (CEO of Pageantry Global, Inc.), Cora Aragon (President of Pageantry Global, Inc.), Ammilyn Deita, Angel Soliven, Hannah Angelica Marte
(Cultural Pageant Coordinators) Ruby Pangan, Bettie Francisco and Priscilla Marte, LOC Ambassadors Participants Jacqueline Albay-Yenney, Jeddah Berame, Maria Arianna Conechado, Kimberly Pearl Marquez, Nathalie Barry, Gabbie Pangan, Trinity Foliente (CEO of Pageantry Global, Inc.), Cora Aragon (CEO and President of Pageantry Global, Inc.) respectively and other participants Ammilyn Deita, Angel Soliven, Hannah Angelica Marte, the Parents of the candidates are Lorna Conechado, Amelia Deita and Mayette Pacis
(L-R) Hannah Angelica Marte, Maria Ariana Conechado, Angel Pacis, Kimberly Pearl Marquez, Gabbie Pangan and Nathalie Barry
azine that is distributed in 60 countries and 101 cities throughout the World in collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Tourism Promotions Board, and Department of Tourism of the Philippines. To know more about Asian Jour-
nal and the Love Of Country Global Ambassadors Program, visitAsianJournalMediaGroup. com and LoveOfCountryAmbassadors.com. The deadline for applications is March 18, 2018. To learn more about applying visit LoveOfCountryAmbassadors.com/apply.
B january 25-31, 2018 • LaS VEGaS aSIan jOurnaL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678