NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
T H E F I L I P I N O A M E R I CA N C O M M U N I T Y N E WS PA P E R
Volume 18 - No. 7 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages
F E BR U A RY 1 5 - 2 1 , 2 0 1 9
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United Nations special rapporteur DATELINE USA Fil-Am federal workers on Ressa’s arrest: Simply intolerable reflect on longest gov’t FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
shutdown ahead of a possible second closure Trump ‘extremely unhappy’ with current deal FILIPINO-American Ted Aquino has been an air traffic controller at John Wayne Airport in Irvine, California for more than 20 years. After emigrating from Manila, Philippines to Tustin, California, a lengthy job search got him this gig, which he said he enjoys. “I’ve always loved airplanes, and wanted to be a pilot originally, but I figured air traffic controllers also have an important job, so I got it and have been happy for the last 20 or so years,� Aquino told the Asian Journal in a recent phone interview. He’s been happy with it, that is, until recently. Aquino was one of the thousands of “non-essential� federal workers who worked
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AFP chief welcomes US support THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday, February 12, welcomed the United States’ quarterly report that showed $61.9 million in support of the intelligence operations of the Philippine military. “Talks on the matter (of U.S. intelligence aid) are still on the higher level and the AFP is yet to be directly involved,� AFP chief Benjamin Madrigal Jr. told reporters at Camp Aguinaldo. “Of course any assistance, most especially in terms of technology or added training is a welcome activity,� he added.
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by CAMILLE
DIOLA Philstar.com
A TOP United Nations’ (UN) human rights expert condemned the arrest of journalist Maria Ressa on Wednesday, February 13, hours after investigative agents served a warrant in the newsroom of online media organization Rappler. Speaking out on Twitter, Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression David Kaye said the arrest of the Rappler CEO is a “very serious escalation� of recent events perceived as threats to the free press in the Philippines. Kaye, a law professor, also called Ressa’s arrest a
“harassment of media inconsistent with the Philippines’ obligations to promote and protect freedom of expression.� “Maria Ressa is one the great global journalist/ entrepreneurs and an advocate for and friend to free press everywhere,� Kaye wrote in a followup tweet. “The fact that she is spending the night in jail is simply intolerable,� he added. Ressa was taken to the National Bureau of Investigation headquarters in Manila after being served the warrant past 5 p.m. when courts were already closing and could no longer process bail. She was arrested over a cyberlibel case arising
from an article Rappler published in 2012 and updated in 2014 when a new law against cybercrime was already enacted. The case, however, is among several charges recently filed against the news website perceived to be critical of the Duterte administration. Ressa’s camp said that a night court refused to accept the settlement of bail for the libel charge, forcing the journalist to spend the night in detention. Kaye’s statement, meanwhile, is the latest of expressions of alarm coming from bodies attached to the United Nations. PAGE A2
Historian: ‘Maharlika’ does not mean ‘noble’ by
RITCHEL MENDIOLA AJPress
A FILIPINO historian on Wednesday, February 13, said that the understanding of “Maharlika� as nobility is a common misconception due to mistranslated historical texts. This was after President Rodrigo Duterte proposed the idea of replacing the name of the Philippines with this term. “Actually, tama si Marcos. Panahon ni Marcos, tama talaga si Marcos. Gusto niya palitan [ng] Maharlika, the Republic of Maharlika because Maharlika is a Malay word and it means more of a concept of serenity and peace (Actually, Marcos is right. This was during the time of Marcos, he is really right. He wanted to change the name to Maharlika, the Republic of Maharlika because Maharlika is a Malay word and it means more of a concept of serenity and peace),� said Duterte in front of an audience of mostly Muslim Filipinos in
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PROMISING MINDANAO. President Rodrigo Duterte raises his ďŹ st while delivering his speech at the ceremonial distribution of CertiďŹ cates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) to the Agrarian Reform BeneďŹ ciaries (ARBs) of Maguindanao at the Buluan Municipal Gymnasium on Monday, February 11. Addressing more than 700 attendees, Duterte urged them to make good use of the agricultural lands as he promised a more progressing Maguindanao. MalacaĂąang photo by Albert Alcain
Tropicales named as new Panelo: Ressa’s arrest ‘nothing to Tourism AttachĂŠ for PDOTSF do with freedom of expression’
MARIE Soleil P. Tropicales has been appointed as the new Tourism Director/AttachĂŠ for the San Francisco office of the Philippine Department of Tourism. Director Tropicales assumed her post last January 22, 2019. Director Tropicales took over the SF post from Purificacion Suanding Molintas, who was tourism director for the last four years. Director Tropicales holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management from the University of Santo Tomas (UST), where she was also the recipient of the
Quezon Leadership Award. Upon her completion of her Master’s in Business Administration from the UST Graduate School where she graduated cum laude, Director Tropicales joined The Discovery Leisure Company, Inc. as part of the pre-opening team for the Misibis Bay Resort and Hotel Venezia in Bicol. She also worked with the team of Discovery Suites in Manila and Discovery Shores Boracay. In addition to being in the sales and marketing industry for more than a decade, the UST alumna also had a brief stint in the academe as a part-
Palace: Duterte allowed to endorse election bets
to engage in partisan activities. Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said that while the AS the 90-day campaign period Article XXII Section 261 (i) known for senatorial and party-list candi- as the Prohibited Acts of the Omdates started on Tuesday, Febru- nibus Election Code prohibits ary 12, MalacaĂąang informed the public officers and employees public that it is lawful for Philip- from endorsing, the provision pine President Rodrigo Duterte u PAGE A3
by AJPRESS
by RYAN
MACASERO Philstar.com
Marie Soleil P. Tropicales as the new Tourism Director/AttachĂŠ for the San Francisco ofďŹ ce of the Philippine Department of Tourism.
time teacher at the Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management of Far Eastern University (FEU).
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site Rappler at around 5 p.m. While international organizations have raised concerns over THE arrest of Rappler CEO and the number of cases piling up Executive Editor Maria Ressa has against Rappler, the Palace reiternothing to do with freedom of ex- ates its position that the cases are pression, presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Wednesday evening, February 13. “This has nothing to do with freedom of expression or the press. Regardless of who commits any crime he or she will be charged in accordance with the law,� Panelo said in an interview with the ABS-CBN News Channel. Agents of the National Bureau of Investigation served the warrant at the headquarters of news !.$2%7 " 3().
not about freedom of expression. “She commits a crime and the court finds probable cause, which is why she is being charged,� the spokesperson and president’s
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FEBRUARY 15-21, 2019 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
From the Front Page
United Nation special rapporteur...
PAGE A1 Last month, three special rapporteurs released a joint statement raising concern over moves to have the online news outlet’s license revoked. “As a matter of human rights law, there is no basis to block it from operating. Rappler and
other independent outlets need particular protection because of the essential role they play in ensuring robust public debate,” said Kaye, along with fellow experts Agnes Callamard and Michael Forst. Callamard is the UN expert on extrajudicial killings while Forst
is the special rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders. The Philippines’ Department of Justice, meanwhile, denied that Ressa’s arrest was an act of suppression of the press, arguing that it was simply procedural. n
Fil-Am federal workers reflect on...
BALLOT PRINTING BEGINS. A foreign consultant supervises the printing of official ballots to be used in the May 13 mid-term elections at the National Printing Office in Quezon City. The Commission on Elections targets to print a total of 63,662,481 ballots for the upcoming polls. PNA photo by Oliver Marquez
AFP chief welcomes US support PAGE A1 According to Glenn Fine, principal deputy inspector general of the U.S. State Department, the Philippine military still needs “extensive support” when it comes to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance because of its “limited capability” to gather information on a target. “This quarter, the Department
of Defense (DoD) continued to provide assistance to the AFP in its fight against Islamic State of Iraq and Syria-Philippines (ISISPH) and other violent extremist organizations,” Fine said. The ISIS-PH might remain fragmented and degraded, but it still poses a security threat with an estimated 300 to 550 fighters active in the southern Philippines.
Fine’s DoD report, which was based on recommendations from the Indo-Pacific Command in the last quarter of 2018, was only submitted to the U.S. Congress last week due to the longest government shutdown. The AFP is currently depending on the U.S. and other traditional allies for its defense and military requirements. n
Historian: ‘Maharlika’ does not... PAGE A1 Maguindanao. But according to Dr. Rolando Borrinaga, a historian from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, “Maharlika” actually means “free man.” He told radio DZMM that the members of the maharlika do not participate in politics, unlike the datu class of rulers. He also added that maharlikas are different from the Visayas’ timawa, or free people. The Philippines was named after Spain’s King Philip II in the 16th century when the country was still colonized by the Spanish. Ruy Lopez de Villalobos, a Span-
ish explorer, coined the name “Las Islas Filipinas” for the archipelago. In 1978, then-Batasang Pambansa member Eddie Ilarde proposed the Philippines’ name be changed to Maharlika through Parliamentary Bill 195. U.S. Army investigators said the term was also used by former president Ferdinand Marcos when he faked his military records during the World War II. At that time, the late dictator claimed to have commanded a group of guerrillas known as the “Maharlika Unit.” However, a 1986 New York Times report revealed that Marcos’ petition re-
questing recognition of the unit between 1945 and 1948 were denied. The U.S. Army rejected Marcos’ requests, calling his claims “distorted, exaggerated, fraudulent, contradictory and absurd.” It was concluded by army investigators that Maharlika was a fictitious creation and that ‘’no such unit ever existed’’ as a guerrilla organization during the war.” Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo, for his part, clarified that Duterte would not actively push Congress to change the name. “It’s not the style of the president,” he said. “He floats [the] idea and someone gets it.” n
PAGE A1 without pay during President Donald Trump’s 5-week government shutdown, the longest shutdown in American history. As previously reported by the Asian Journal, the shutdown was the result of an impasse over Trump’s demand for $5.7 billion of federal dollars allocated for his long-awaited U.S.-Mexico border wall. Democrats have repeatedly declined the request, which led to Trump’s refusal to sign the spending package, which didn’t include said border wall funds. “I have kids who need to be fed and taken care of, [so] I really can’t afford being a pawn in this whole [expletive] situation,” Aquino said, venting out his financial grievances over the phone. “And I know I’m not the only one.” Aquino is right in that the 5week shutdown that began on Dec. 22, 2018 to Jan. 25, 2019 resulted in 800,000 federal workers being furloughed or working without pay. The government reopened when Trump agreed to a stopgap bill that temporarily opened the government until this Friday, Feb. 15. Ahead of the bill’s expiration date, Trump on Tuesday, Feb. 12 said that he is “extremely unhappy” with the bipartisan deal that congressional lawmakers offered to avoid another shutdown. That bill lacked the $5.7 billion for the wall, and only included funding for a southern border fence. “I am extremely unhappy with what the Democrats have given us,” the president told reporters.“It’s sad. They’re doing the country no favors. They’re hurting our country very badly. But we certainly don’t want to see a shutdown.” Trump doubts that there would be a second shutdown, but preemptively placed the blame on Democrats if it comes to that. “And I accepted the first one,
and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished because people learned during that shutdown all about the problems coming in from the southern border,” Trump added. “I accept it — I’ve always accepted it. But this one, I would never accept it if it happens, but I don’t think it’s going to happen. But this would be totally on the Democrats.” But Trump indicating he is “proud” of what was accomplished sugarcoats the frantic upheaval that plagued the federal workforce. Amid the partisan battle in Washington over spending packages and border walls, the economic well-being of individual employees was at stake, Aquino remarked. “It’s not a game, it’s our lives here, and that time was really hard because I would go into work unsure if I would get paid for my work that day, which, I admit, did mentally affect me most days [during the shutdown],” Aquino said. Aquino also emphasizes the public safety concerns of “playing” with the jobs of air traffic controllers. Aquino said that the typical process to become an air traffic controller involves years of training before being certified for the job. “There are no rest days on the job. You have to be on guard since you’re overseeing as many as 30 planes at a time. There’s no room to slip up, but when you’re worrying about if you can’t pay your rent on time, naturally it affects your overall well being,” Aquino explained. Air travel is a uniquely, almost totally federally-operated system that hinges so much on safety, and that safety hinges upon its hundreds of thousands of workers. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) under the Dept. of Homeland Security is responsible for the security of travelers in the U.S. that was cre-
ated after the September 11 terrorist attacks. Dolores Harden, a FilipinaAmerican TSA worker at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, saw the irony in the 35day shutdown’s furloughing of “actually essential security employees” because of the border wall. “As TSA agents, it’s our job to protect the American people and thwart any terrorism threats. I was with some of my coworkers the other day, and we were laughing about the government shutdown over a wall — which is purportedly supposed to protect us from drug dealers coming into the country —actually caused already employed protectors of terrorism and harm to miss our pay,” Harden told the Asian Journal in a recent phone interview on Wednesday, February 6. Harden was one of the 55,000 TSA workers who were expected to work without pay. TSA workers are categorically labeled — and perhaps, truly are — essential federal employees. She was also one of the thousands of TSA agents who missed work during the shutdown. When asked if she missed work in protest of the shutdown (as some “essential” federal workers did), she declined and said that it was for “economic reasons.” But she did imply that the overall tension at work during the shutdown was palpable. Harden said that she felt resentment towards the government for “such a willy-nilly decision that impacted a lot of us negatively.” “I’m not trying to be partisan here when I say that what happened, and what might happen next week was not right. I don’t think it’s partisan to say we don’t need a wall. We need federal workers with jobs [that] are solely to protect the American people to be respected,” Harden said. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress) n
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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 15-21 , 2019
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PG&E Submits 2019 Wildfire Safety Plan, with additional safety precautions and significantly expanded public safety power shutoff program SAN FRANCISCO — As part of its ongoing commitment to reducing wildfire risk, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) submitted on Thursday, February 7, its 2019 Wildfire Safety Plan to the California Public Utilities Commission. The safety plan marks an expansion of enhanced and additional safety precautions PG&E began implementing in 2017 and 2018 to address the growing threat of extreme weather and wildfires across its service area. Given the continued and growing threat of extreme weather and wildfires, and as an additional precautionary measure, PG&E’s plan includes expanding and enhancing its Community Wildfire Safety Program to further reduce wildfire risks and help keep customers and the communities it serves safe. Ongoing and expanded efforts include further enhancing vegetation management around power lines, conducting enhanced safety inspections of electric infrastructure in high fire-threat areas, and a hardening of our electric system. Also included in the 2019 plan, PG&E announced additional and enhanced safety precautions including the expansion of PG&E’s Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) program to include all electric lines that pass through high fire-threat areas - both transmission and distribution. While customers in high firethreat areas are more likely to be affected, any of PG&E’s more than 5 million electric customers could have their power shut off for safety only as a last resort when forecasted fire danger conditions warrant. “We know how much our customers rely on electric service. Proactively turning off power is a highly complex issue with significant public safety risks on both sides - all of which need to be carefully considered and addressed,” said Michael Lewis, Electric Operations senior vice president. “We understand and appreciate that turning off the power affects first responders
and the operation of critical facilities, communications systems and much more. We will only turn off power for public safety and only as a last resort to keep our customers and communities safe.” To be clear, the decision to initiate a PSPS is informed by local forecasts, so PG&E is not indicating that it would ever turn off power to all customers at once. Instead, due to the complexity of the electric grid, and the weblike connection between transmission lines, distribution lines and substations, there is a possibility that some customers outside a high-risk fire threat area, could have their power turned off based on the need to turn off a specific high-voltage circuit. The expanded program includes timely notification to customers of potential PSPS events. The program will now include 25,200 distribution circuit miles, up from 7,100 last year, and about 5,500 circuit miles of transmission lines including 500 kV, up from 373 circuit miles of transmission lines at 70 kV and below, across elevated and extreme-fire risk areas, designated by the CPUC High Fire Threat District map adopted in January 2018. PG&E’s 2019 Wildfire Safety Plan describes forecasted work and investments in 2019 to help further reduce the potential for wildfire ignitions associated with its electrical equipment in high fire-threat areas. It also reflects the unique size and geography of PG&E’s 70,000-square-mile service area of which more than half is located in extreme or elevated fire-threat areas. “Our state is faced with an extended and more dangerous wildfire season that demands urgent action and coordination. While California’s energy companies have a critical responsibility and role to play in reducing wildfire risk, we must all work together to keep our communities safe,” said Sumeet Singh, vice president of the Community Wildfire Safety Program. “The wildfire
PAGE A1 simply excludes the president. “The president even asked – called upon the members of the cabinet to strictly follow the rules on the prohibition on government employees, officials not to campaign for or against any political candidate, exempting himself, because the provision says he is exempted from it,” Panelo said as reported by The Philippine Star. The Code, otherwise known as the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Resolution No. 9115, stated that “the following shall be guilty of an election offense.” Under the “intervention of public officers and employees,” the provision exempts those “holding political offices” from getting an election sanction. “Any officer or employee in the civil service, except those holding political offices; any officer, employee, or member of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), or any police force, special forces, home defense forces, barangay self-defense units and all other para-military units that now exist or which may hereafter be organized who, directly or indirectly, intervenes in any election campaign or engages in any partisan political activity, except to vote or to preserve public order, if he is a peace officer,” the provision stated. Such law is confirmed by COMELEC Spokesperson James Jimenez during his interview with Cignal TV’s One News segment, “The Chiefs”. He admitted that while this rule clearly exempts politicians in office, there are still gray areas in its implementation. Panelo clarified that despite Duterte’s liberty to campaign for those he deemed worthy of the public seat, “it will be just verbal endorsement” from the president. He promised that the executive office will not use taxpayers’ money in any of the campaigns. There are three senato-
rial candidates that are closely linked with Duterte and are part of his “inner circle.” Among those in the inner circle are his long-time aide Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Christopher “Bong” Go, former Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, and former political adviser Francis Tolentino. Panelo also denied that the upcoming May elections would serve as a referendum on the Duterte presidency. The spokesperson noted that he does not “think the president believes in his magical so-called power to endorse. What he’s giving the people is ‘these are the people that I personally feel are capable of being in the Senate.” The presidential legal counsel emphasized that a win from the opposition side would not denote a repudiation of the Duterte presidency. Instead, he said that it simply signifies a mandate from the people to cooperate with the administration. “Now, as far as I am concerned and I think the President will agree with me that the—even the winning of an opposition candidate doesn’t mean a repudiation of the administration,” Panelo said as reported by The Philippine Daily Inquirer. “It only means that when opposition candidates win, it is an expression of the electorate telling them that we’re putting you there to cooperate with this administration because we believe in this presidency and not you to destabilize it,” he added. Panelo also urged all local and national candidates for the midterm elections to practice clean, fair and honest practices before, during and after the campaign period by abiding with the rules and regulation of the election commission. “Every government, every administration – always appeals to all the candidates to strictly observe the elections laws... We have to have clean, honest, fair, credible elections,” Panelo said. n
Palace: Duterte allowed...
Tropicales named as new... PAGE A1 In 2014, Director Tropicales joined the Philippine Department of Tourism where she was assigned to the Route Development Division of the Market Development Group. A year earlier, she had passed the Competency Based Assessment Program of the PDOT and joined the pool of Tourism Attachés. She handled the hosting of the Routes Asia 2016 in Manila, considered the biggest aviation event in Asia. Director Tropicales has par-
ticipated in various aviation and trade events in China, Singapore, South Korea, Australia, Spain and South Africa, and also presented her paper, “Air Route Development in the Philippines: Prospects for Improving the Tourism Industry,” at the 15th APacCHRIE Conference 2017 in Bali, Indonesia. She has been instrumental in strengthening and growing the direct air connections of the Philippines from tourist source markets of the country.n
safety actions and programs described in our 2019 plan address the company’s unique and diverse service area and provide our regulators, customers and communities with transparency of our unwavering efforts to help further reduce the risk of wildfire and improve public safety.” California faces an increasing threat from catastrophic wildfires, extreme weather and higher temperatures, and recent state and federal climate assessments warn the threat is only growing. Multiple factors contribute to wildfire risk across PG&E’s service area. These include vast tree mortality following a historic five-year drought. Fire season is now extended due to prolonged periods of high temperatures, extreme dryness, tinder-dry grass and record-high winds increasing the number of wildfires and making them more dangerous. The 2019 plan addresses an array of wildfire risk factors through new and ongoing measures. Among the safety steps and actions include: • Installing nearly 600 new, high-definition cameras, made available to CAL FIRE and local fire officials, in high fire-threat areas by 2022, increasing coverage across high fire-risk areas to more than 90 percent; • Adding approximately 1,300 additional new weather stations by 2022, at a density of one sta-
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FREE HEALTH SERVICES. Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center (CGHMC) vice chairman of the board Jameson Dy (standing, in checkered polo) and CGHMC deputy administrator Cheche Javier (partly hidden) talk to patients availing of health services during the CGHMC’s conduct of free dental and medical mission in Barangay Sto. Niño, Poblacion, Muntinlupa City on Sunday, February 10. The CGHMC is owned and operated by the Philippine-Chinese Charitable Association Inc. PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan
Panelo: Ressa’s arrest ‘nothing to do with... PAGE A1 chief legal adviser said. “The charge is fact-based and the DOJ prosecutors gave her all the opportunities to defend herself and it found out there is probable cause and even the court agrees with it.” Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 45 Presiding Judge Rainela Estacio-Montesa ordered law enforcement agencies to serve a warrant against Ressa in an order dated February 12 over a cyberlibel case filed by state prosecutors. Responding to comments over the timing of the warrant, served at 5 p.m. after courts are already closed, Panelo said that the only prohibition with warrants is that they can’t be served on a week-
end. “What’s the complaint?” he said. The warrant of arrest emanated from a complaint filed by businessman Wilfredo Keng over an article that was first published in May 2012. He sought the NBI on October 2017 — five years since the story was published — claiming that Rappler did not observe “ethical standards of journalism” when it published the story. He wanted Rappler, Ressa and the reporter to be held accountable under the cyberlibel law. NBI Cybercrime Division head agent Manuel Eduarte asserted in an interview last January 2018: “Even if it was posted in 2012, but still can be seen at the
time the complaint was filed or the time of the effectivity of the Cybercrime Law (it is still covered).” An international press group in a statement today said the Duterte administration was using the “law as a weapon to silence Rappler’s reporting.” Panelo has denied the administration has been making efforts to silence press freedom since last year. In December, after Ressa was named among several of Time Magazine’s Person of the Year, he said that as far as Malacañang is concerned and “obviously since there are still critics attacking… criticizing the administration, the freedom of expression in this country is a robust one.” n
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FEBRUARY 15-21, 2019 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
Governor Newsom announces draw down of California National Guard on Southern Border National Guard personnel will be redeployed to support CAL FIRE in fire prevention work and to tackle transnational criminal organizations, which are the root cause of many asylum claims
FULL DEVOTION. Devotees flock to touch, see and pray to the incorruptible heart of St. Camillus de Lellis, the patron saint of the sick and the founder of the Order of Clerks Regular Ministers to the Sick, at the Our Lady of the Peace and Good Voyage Cathedral in Antipolo City on Sunday, February 10. ManilaTimes.net photo by Roy Martinezo
PG&E Submits 2019 Wildfire Safety Plan... PAGE A3 tion roughly every 20 circuit miles in high fire-risk areas; • Conducting enhanced safety inspections of electric infrastructure in high-fire threat areas, including approximately 725,000 electric towers and poles across more than 5,500 transmission line miles and 25,200 distribution line miles; • Further enhancing vegetation management efforts across high-fire risk areas (25,000 miles of lines) to address vegetation that poses higher potential for wildfire risk, including clearing overhanging branches directly above and around power lines; • Continuing to disable automatic reclosing in high fire-threat areas during wildfire season and periods of high fire-risk and upgrading more reclosers and circuit breakers in high fire-threat areas with remote control capabilities; • Installing stronger and more resilient poles and covered power lines, including targeted undergrounding, starting in areas with the highest fire risk, ultimately upgrading and strengthening approximately 7,100 miles over the next 10 years; and • Partnering with additional communities in high fire-threat areas to create new resilience zones that can power central
community resources during a Public Safety Power Shutoff. The safety plan builds on PG&E’s comprehensive Community Wildfire Safety Program, launched in March 2018. PG&E has completed or is implementing these important safety enhancements and investments to help keep our customers and communities safe. Some of the actions taken include: • Established a new 24/7 Wildfire Safety Operations Center to monitor wildfire risks in real-time and coordinate prevention and response efforts; • Expanded its network of PG&E weather stations to enhance weather forecasting and modeling and better predict where wildfire danger could occur, with more than 200 new weather stations installed to date; • Installed new high-definition cameras in high fire-threat areas in Napa, Marin and Sonoma counties to improve real-time monitoring across high fire-risk areas; • Enhanced vegetation management practices to meet and exceed new state vegetation and fire safety standards that require greater clearances between trees and power lines across 25,200 miles of distribution line in high fire-threat areas; • Developed a new program
to proactively turn off power for safety, only as a last resort, when extreme fire danger conditions are forecasted (Public Safety Power Shutoff), and coordinated efforts with public safety authorities and other community partners; • Disabled automatic reclosing of circuit breakers and reclosers on power lines in high fire-threat areas during the 2018 wildfire season, and expanded automation of over 400 reclosing devices; • Initiated construction on a pilot resilience zone project in Angwin (Napa County), which includes infrastructure upgrades that enables the company to provide electricity to central community resources if power lines need to be turned off for safety due to high wildfire threats; and • Held over 450 meetings with state and local community leaders and emergency response partners around wildfire safety and preparedness. Open and transparent public process PG&E’s 2019 Wildfire Safety Plan is subject to open and transparent public review and annual approval by the CPUC. PG&E strongly supports and encourages its customers and communities to provide feedback and participate in this important public process. n
SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom on Monday, February 11, announced that he has signed a General Order rescinding previous authorization for California National Guard operations at the U.S.-Mexico border that allowed California National Guard personnel to perform duties traditionally undertaken by the federal government there. “The border ‘emergency’ is a manufactured crisis. And California will not be part of this political theater. Which is why I have given the National Guard a new mission. They will refocus on the real threats facing our state,” said Newsom. “This is our answer to the White House: No more division, xenophobia or nativism.” Currently, approximately 360 members of the California National Guard are deployed at the U.S.-Mexico border. These National Guard personnel were deployed at the request of the White House to provide support for the federal government in border operations. Last week, President Donald
Governor Gavin Newsom
Trump announced he will be deploying 3,750 U.S. military personnel to the U.S.-Mexico border. Newsom’s order cites this development as yet more reason for California to reprioritize its National Guard deployment. Newsom’s order redeploys these personnel to focus on the
actual threats facing the State of California. It does so by: • Authorizing 110 personnel to prepare for the upcoming fire season by supporting CAL FIRE in fire prevention and fire suppression efforts; • Authorizing the expansion of the California National Guard’s statewide Counterdrug Task Force by at least 150 personnel; and • Authorizing 100 personnel to conduct counter narcotics search and seizure operations targeting transnational criminal organization around ports of entry. The guard will begin making preparations to carry out the order immediately and draw down by March 31, 2019. The Governor today also sent a letter to Acting U.S. Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan requesting financial support from the federal government to expand the California National Guard’s statewide Counterdrug Task Force, starting with – but not limited to – redeploying 150 personnel from the border. n
OSG clueless on $3 million sale of Marcos paintings by ElizabEth marcElo Philstar.com
THE Office of the SolicitorGeneral (OSG) has admitted that it was not aware of the sale of three of about 200 artworks owned by the Marcos family during an auction in New York City in November last year. The paintings – an 1881 work by French impressionist Claude Monet titled “L’église à Vétheuil,” an 1897 work by British landscape artist Alfred Sisley titled “Langland Bay” and a 1946 work by French painter Albert Marquet titled “Le Cypres de Djenan Sidi Said,” which is also known as the “Algerian View” – commanded more than $3 million. All three were subject of a pending civil forfeiture case before the anti-graft court Sandiganbayan. Monet’s work was sold for $2.6 million, Sisley’s for $900,000 and Marquet’s for about $90,000. In a manifestation filed before the court’s Special First Division on Jan. 25 and obtained by reporters Monday, February 11, the OSG, which represents the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) in the
The paintings – an 1881 work by French impressionist Claude Monet titled “L’église à Vétheuil,” an 1897 work by British landscape artist Alfred Sisley titled “Langland Bay” and a 1946 work by French painter Albert Marquet titled “Le Cypres de Djenan Sidi Said,” which is also known as the “Algerian View” – commanded more than $3 million. Philstar.com file photo
case, confirmed that the three paintings were already sold. “The OSG had no prior knowledge of the sale and the details thereof or of the supposed court
order. While the undersigned has requested the PCGG for the details, the documentation/written information is still forthcoming,” the OSG’s manifestation read. n
Philippines, US launch new maritime training facility in Bulacan by FrancEs
mangosing Inquirer.net
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and United States on Monday, February 11, launched a new maritime training facility in Balagtas, Bulacan. The P39-million project, which was funded by the U.S. government, is expected to boost the Philippine Coast Guard’s capacity to train its workforce and sustain its equipment. “This project is a milestone in our effort to enhance PCG operations. It is one of the important missions in addressing the training requirements of the organization. This endeavor has provided the foundation [for future training] while improving our personnel learning culture,” PCG commandant Admiral Elson Hermogino was quoted as saying. The new facility consists of a classroom, barracks, and an out-
Inquirer.net file photo
board motor maintenance lab. It was built under a local contract managed by the US Naval Facilities Engineering Command. Also present at the launch were U.S. Embassy in the Philippines deputy chief of mission John C.
Law, deputy director of the Joint Interagency Task Force-West Earl Hampton; and Commodore Jose William U. Isaga, commander of PCG Weapons, Communications, Electronics and Information System Service.n
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DATELINE PHILIPPINES
Creation of department of OFWs pushed by BERNADETTE
TAMAYO Manilatimes.net
SEN. Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III on Monday, February 11, raised the need to create an agency that would solely promote the welfare and focus on the concerns of over 10 million overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). The senator stressed that the creation of a department for OFWs was one of the campaign promises of President Rodrigo Duterte. He reiterated his call for the immediate creation of a Department of Overseas Filipino Workers (DoFW), saying the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) cannot fully attend to the needs of OFWs. “Both these government agencies are already understaffed to meet the growing number and demands of our OFWs. A dedicat-
ed executive department for our foreign workers is the solution,” Pimentel said. “For instance, OWWA has already complained in 2018 that it has just 420 staff worldwide, 300 locally and 120 abroad, addressing the concerns of 10 million OFWs.” Pimentel filed on May 10, 2017 Senate Bill 1445 creating the DoFW. “We urgently need this OFW department. Deployment of workers abroad is not a temporary phenomenon,” he said. The senator cited reports that the Philippines stands to lose about $1.5 billion worth of remittances due to the projected 10 to 15 percent decrease in the deployment of OFWs to the Middle East. “That’s a big number, considering Saudi Arabia is the most preferred country of destination among OFWs at 25.4 percent, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA),” Pimentel said.
Last year, OWWA repatriated around 3,000 workers. The deployment of Filipino workers also declined by 10 percent because of the instability of crude oil prices. “The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has lowered the growth targets for both personal and cash remittances to 3 percent instead of 4 percent for 2019. We need a more proactive stance to stem this decline,” the senator said. “We need a national level policy, implemented by a separate government department, that squarely addresses key employment trends and developments abroad because these have direct economic consequences back home,” he said. “When foreign countries freeze hiring of skilled and unskilled workers, or when maritime agencies rationalize the hiring of our seafarers, the economic consequences are direct and immediately felt.” he added. ■
‘I really like the Philippines’: Chinese student sorry for ‘taho’ tantrum
MANILA — The 23-year-old Chinese student arrested for throwing her soybean drink or “taho” at a police officer implementing the liquid ban at an MRT-3 station expressed remorse Monday, February 11, over her actions. Jiale Zhang, who is studying fashion design in the country, said she was just in a bad mood last Saturday morning, February 9, when the incident happened. “I’m really in bad mood and I was not able to control my emotion. I really admit the mistake I made and I feel so regretful,” a teary Zhang said in an interview with GMA News. She was asked by PO1 William Cristobal to finish her “taho” or choose other transportation options as a ban on liquids is being implemented on Philippine train lines amid stricter security following the deadly Jolo cathedral bombing last January 27. Zhang, who has been living in the Philippines for over six years, appealed for a second chance. “I’m really really sorry. And I really ask if it’s possible to have another chance for me,” she said. “I really like the Philippines that’s why I stay here. I like peo-
Eco groups urge Trudeau to finally resolve issue of trash dumped in Philippines by GAEA
KATREENA Philstar.com
CABICO
MANILA — Local and international organizations called on Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to take action on the long-standing issue of tons of garbage illegally brought into the Philippines from Canada. Environmental group EcoWaste Coalition sent letters to Trudeau and Canadian Environment Minister Catherine McKenna on January 30, urging them to resolve the dumping scandal involving 103 containers of mixed garbage. Copies of the letters were given to reporters on Tuesday, February 12. In a letter addressed to Trudeau, EcoWaste Coalition National Coordinator Aileen Lucero dumping Canada’s trash in the Philippines is immoral and illegal. “The scandal has dragged on for five years without resolution despite promises from the Canadian government to address the
Manilatimes.net
ple here. I really love Filipinos.” Meanwhile, Zhang’s legal counsel, lawyer Sandra Respall, addressed criticisms hurled at her client online. “This was a very minor omission which just went viral,” Respall said referring to the photo of the incident that gained attention online. “It’s a case where somebody got emotional over an incident,” she added. Zhang is detained at the Man-
daluyong police headquarters for disobedience to a person in authority, direct assault and unjust vexation. Mandaluyong City police chief Senior Supt. Moises Villaceran Jr. said they would recommend to the Bureau of Immigration to declare Zhang as an “undesirable alien” and deport her. Foreign Affairs Secretary Teddy Locsin, however, argued against deportation on Sunday, a day afPAGE A7
In this file photo, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addresses journalists at the ASEAN media center in Pasay City, Philippines on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017. Philstar.com file photo
problem, including public statements made by yourself as prime minister,” Lucero said. She appealed to the Canadian government to provide a definite date on when it will take back the garbage “so that this protracted
deal can finally be promptly ended.” The 103 shipping containers—which contained household trash, used adult diapers and electronic waste—arrived in the PAGE A7
“This law will help prevent the further spread of HIV-AIDS among Filipinos, especially among the vulnerable groups,” Eriguel said. Department of Health (DoH) data showed that HIV and AIDS cases in the Philippines rose to 11,103 in 2017 from 9,264 cases in 2016. Under RA 11166, the PNAC will promote and adopt a range of measures and interventions to prevent or control the spread of HIV among the general population, especially among the key populations and vulnerable communities. The law will promote the rights, welfare and participation of people living with HIV and the affected children, young people, families and partners of people living with HIV. It would also prohibit mass media from identifying persons with HIV or AIDS, Eriguel said. She noted that an important provision of the law makes health services for HIV-AIDS available
to minors. The provision allows persons aged 15 to 17 years to undergo HIV testing even without the consent of their parent or guardian. She said this would prevent the spread of the epidemic among young Filipinos and remove the stigma on people living with HIV or AIDS. The law also contains provisions penalizing discrimination against people living with HIV or AIDS in employment, school enrollment, travel, housing, public office, credit and insurance, hospitals and health institutions, and burial services. Violators of the law will face imprisonment of 1 year to 10 years and may be fined P50,000 to P500,000. The law authorizes the DoH to establish a program to provide free and accessible treatment and medication to all persons living with HIV and AIDS. It also establishes an annual budget to implement the provisions of the law. ■
New law to boost HIV, AIDS prevention – La Union lawmaker by GLEE JALEA
In this Feb. 9, 2019 photo, cops talk to Chinese design student Jiale Zhang after she was arrested for throwing “taho” at a cop. Philstar.com photo by Boy Santos
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A MEASURE signed into law in December last year would strengthen the country’s policy on Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), a lawmaker said on Monday, February 11. Republic Act (RA) 11166 or the “Philippine HIV and AIDS Act,” which was signed by President Rodrigo Duterte in December 2018, will expand access to HIVprevention strategies nationwide. The new law repealed RA 9504 or the Philippine AIDS Prevention and Control Act of 1998. It will strengthen and reconstitute the Philippine National AIDS Council (PNAC) with full budgetary support. The measure was co-authored by La Union 2nd District Rep. Sandra Eriguel and consolidated into a substitute bill under the House health committee.
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EBRUARY 15-21, 2019 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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OPINION
FEATURES
Fair and peaceful campaign THERE they go… candidates for the Senate and party-list groups are officially off and running this week. For many voters, the official start of the campaign period may be confusing. Since the end of the period for filing certificates of candidacy, several of those who filed have been displaying billboards and tarpaulins and pitching their virtues on multimedia. A Supreme Court ruling on a provision of the automated election law, however, effectively declared that there is no such thing as premature campaigning. So the emasculated Commission on Elections can begin regulating campaigning only starting today for national candidates, and on March 29 for those seeking local positions. Since there are thousands of candidates, the Comelec is inevitably swamped. Now the poll body also sees the need to regulate the use of social media for campaigning and the deployment of trolls for character assassination of
rivals. This effort can achieve a measure of success only with the help of groups and individuals who want candidates to compete fairly. It is said that all is fair in love, war and politics. The way a candidate carries out an election campaign, however, is usually an accurate gauge of the quality of service he or she will render in case of victory. The campaign supporters and financing can indicate a candidate’s vulnerability to sweetheart deals and corruption. The worst candidate is the one who uses armed violence for political ends. Election violence thwarts the people’s will and weakens democracy. Everyone can contribute to preventing violence during the campaign period. Violence need not be a permanent fixture in every election season in this country. (Philstar.com)
Editorial
The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS
Philstar.com photo
Dear America: Lest we forget, this was how democracy and decency looked like before Trump Think about it: Impoverishment of the elderly because of medical expenses was a common and often accepted occurrence. Opponents of the Medicare program that saved the elderly from that cruel fate called it “socialized medicine.” Remember that slander if there’s a sustained revival of silly red-baiting today. Not five decades ago, much of the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth — our own Great Lakes — were closed to swimming and fishing and other recreational pursuits because of chemical and bacteriological contamination from untreated industrial and wastewater disposal. Today, the Great Lakes are so hospitable to marine life that one of our biggest challenges is controlling the invasive species that have made them their new home. We regularly used and consumed foods, drugs, chemicals and other things (cigarettes) that were legal, promoted and actively harmful. Hazardous wastes were dumped on empty plots in the dead of night. There were few if any restrictions on industrial emissions. We had only
the barest scientific knowledge of the long-term consequences of any of this. And there was a great stain on America, in the form of our legacy of racial discrimination. There were good people of all colors who banded together, risking and even losing their lives to erase the legal and other barriers that held Americans down. In their time, they were often demonized and targeted, much like other vulnerable men and women today. Please note: All of these challenges were addressed by Congress. Maybe not as fast as we wanted, or as perfectly as hoped. The work is certainly not finished. But we’ve made progress — and in every case, from the passage of Medicare through the passage of civil rights, we did it with the support of Democrats and Republicans who considered themselves first and foremost to be Americans. I’m immensely proud, and eternally grateful, for having had the opportunity to play a part in all of these efforts during my service in Congress. And it’s simply not possible for me to
adequately repay the love that my friends, neighbors and family have given me and shown me during my public service and retirement. But I would be remiss in not acknowledging the forgiveness and sweetness of the woman who has essentially supported me for almost 40 years: my wife, Deborah. And it is a source of great satisfaction to know that she is among the largest group of women to have ever served in the Congress (as she busily recruits more). In my life and career, I have often heard it said that so-andso has real power — as in, “the powerful Wile E. Coyote, chairman of the Capture the Road Runner Committee.” It’s an expression that has always grated on me. In democratic government, elected officials do not have power. They hold power — in trust for the people who elected them. If they misuse or abuse that public trust, it is quite properly revoked (the quicker the better). I never forgot the people who gave me the privilege of representing them. It was a lesson learned at home from my fa-
“DEMOCRACY is the government of the people, for the people, by the people” is an old adage that we have associated with the very democratic principles that have been guiding the United States of America toward a more perfect union. Abraham Lincoln went further in his Gettysburg Address to say that “The government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth,” but the toxic climate of division, hate and fear during the age of Trump has made many of us wonder how we, the people, have allowed the very principles of democracy seem to be elusive, with the government seem to be moving toward serving the “governors” instead of the governed. It has not always been this way. Lest we forget about what has propelled the United States of America become the greater and most powerful union in the world, John D. Dingell — the longest-serving member of Congress in American history — dictated these reflections to his wife, Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.), at their home in Dearborn, on Feb.
7, the day he died. John Dingell, a Michigan Democrat who served in the U.S. House from 1955 to 2015, left us with “My Last Words for America”. May this help us discern the truth that is in our heart: “One of the advantages to knowing that your demise is imminent, and that reports of it will not be greatly exaggerated, is that you have a few moments to compose some parting thoughts. In our modern political age, the presidential bully pulpit seems dedicated to sowing division and denigrating, often in the most irrelevant and infantile personal terms, the political opposition. And much as I have found Twitter to be a useful means of expression, some occasions merit more than 280 characters. My personal and political character was formed in a different era that was kinder, if not necessarily gentler. We observed modicums of respect even as we fought, often bitterly and savagely, over issues that were literally life and death to a degree that — fortunately – we see much less of today.
PeaceMaker
Rebuilding new roads to peace, security and human development
FORMER SPEAKER JOSE C. DE VENECIA, JR. (PART 1 of 3) (Remarks of former Philippine speaker Jose de Venecia founding chairman, International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP); co-chairman, International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP); chairman emeritus, Universal Peace Federation (UPF); Special Envoy of the President to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and for Intercultural Dialogue at the UPF World Summit 2019 “Peace, Security and Human Development” Seoul, Republic of Korea; February 711, 2019) Excellencies, friends, ladies and gentlemen, Let me express our greetings to Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, Co-Founder of Universal Peace Federation (UPF) and Founder of the celebrated Sunhak Peace Prize; and the outstanding UPF President Dr. Thomas Walsh. Let us congratulate Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon for deepening and enlarging the late Reverend Sun
Myung Moon’s sustained commitment and tireless efforts in promoting peace, reconciliation and unity, interfaith dialogue, the strengthening of marriage and family, and many other heart-warming initiatives in Asia and in the global community. The life and legacy of Reverend Moon and Madame Moon, especially in advancing the cause of peace in our troubled world, have continuously elicited praise and support in the United Nations family, in the continents, with admirers and dedicated Universal Peace Federation (UPF) and International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP) members in Asia, Europe, North and South America, Africa and Australia. Mother Moon’s leadership and the UPF initiative in establishing the IAPP—earlier launched and inaugurated in more than 80 countries, attended by more than 3,000 parliamentarians—today mobilizes parliamentarians not only in Asia but throughout the world to a dedicated, single-minded agenda and purpose: the achievement of peace—peace
among nations, peace among peoples, and peace in the hearts of men. For we must focus today on the need for peace in Northeast Asia, most specifically in our immediate environs in the Korean Peninsula and in the South and East China Seas, and onward to South Asia and on the Middle East areas and the danger zones of the Persian-Arab Gulf. A crucial juncture in history Excellencies, friends: We meet at a critical time. Two contrary impulses pull at every new state in the developing world. The first is the elite impulse to centralize political power, the better to achieve economic development and social modernization. The other impulse stems from ethnic nationalism—as people forcibly put together by colonialist powers seek to rally round some icon symbol of unique group identity. Democracy’s rise and fall The post war wave of emancipation had produced a generation of fledgling liberal democracies in the new countries of Africa and Asia.
But parliamentary institutions have not always worked as advertised. Political democracy at times has proved unequal to the complex problems of societies characterized by great inequality and hierarchical traditions and capitalism. Less than a century after independence, most of these fledgling democratic societies set up so grandiosely had reverted to authoritarian regime of various intensities. Indeed, there have been instances that transition from democracy to authoritarianism has become so common that the Harvard professor, Samuel Huntington, seems to justify an “authoritarian transition” for Meiji Japan, Ataturk’s Turkey, Lee Kuan Yew’s Singapore, Park Chung Hee’s South Korea, and Chiang Ching Kuo’s Taiwan, all of which were forced to march to modernization to wealth and power. None of the successor state has escaped this authoritarian transition. Only some regions have been relatively lucky. But, they, too, are feeling the tensions of separatist extremism and religious terrorism. The China challenge
Meanwhile, China offers herself as a model of the new “mixed economy” under state direction and control. And the Chinese model has strong credentials. In the late 1970s, China’s economy had been smaller than Italy’s and just about the same size as Canada’s. It surpassed Germany as the largest exporter in 2009, and overtook Japan as the second-largest economy in 2010. Now only the U.S. is ahead in GNP terms—and even that may change by 2025. During the Cold War, the communist bloc challenge led by the Soviet Union, is at bottom military. Now China, on its own, is challenging the West in its own field, that of the economy. The Beijing model—free market guided by state control—has resulted in an unprecedented growth for China and in some respects appears to be superior to the western model. Consequently, China sees itself as rising in economic, military and diplomatic power. This phenomenon is transforming the world order: the center of global gravity shifting from the Atlantic to the Pacific.
ther and mother, and one I have tried to impart to the people I’ve served with and employed over the years. As I prepare to leave this all behind, I now leave you in control of the greatest nation of mankind and pray God gives you the wisdom to understand the responsibility you hold in your hands. May God bless you all, and may God bless America.” REST IN PEACE, Rep. John Dingell. Thank you for your service. Thank you for your legacy. Thank you for believing America can still rise above the challenges we now face. Dear America: the power to rise above the challenges we now face is with us, we, the people. Let us reclaim that power and decency and leave a better America for our children, grandchildren and the generations more to come. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www. facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos
Promoting peace and reconciliation Excellencies, friends: In the light of the many difficult, intractable political, territorial, religious, separatist, ideological, and ethnic conflicts in Asia and in various parts of the world, we, in the Universal Peace Federation (UPF), the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP), and the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), the members of parliament, political leaders, civil society, and religious leaders must contribute our share in promoting peace and reconciliation, peaceful settlement of disputes, sustainable human development; and in fighting poverty, disease, and climate change and environmental degradation. While we are deeply aware of the historical and cultural roots of many of those conflicts—and the enmity and bitter divisions that have grown between rivals—we cannot turn away from the pursuit of peace because the alternative, which is conflict and war, would be immeasurably costly and make all of us losers. (To be continued next week)
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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Court orders release of cop witness in Jee Ick Joo slay case
Philstar.com file photo by Kristine Joi
Philstar.com
Patag
MANILA — A Pampanga court has ordered the release of SPO4 Roy Villegas, one of the accused in the kidnap-slay of Korean businessman Jee Ick Joo, from police custody after he gave his testimony as state witness. Angeles City, Pampanga Regional Trial Court Branch 56 granted Villegas’ motion to be released from the Philippine National Police’s restrictive custody. “Based on the proceedings held in these cases, it appears that witness Villegas already finished his testimony thus it can be concluded that he already fulfilled his duty as state witness,”
the two-page order read. The same court in January 2018 dismissed the charge against Villegas saying that the cop’s testimony could qualify as direct evidence in the case, thus turning him into a state witness. Accused Ricky Sta. Isabel and Jerry Omlang asked the Court of Appeals to oppose the court’s use of Villegas’ testimony. They also opposed Villegas’ appeal to be released from custody, pending their petition before the appellate court. Villegas, in his affidavit, pointed to Sta. Isabel as the one who strangled Jee to his death. This killing happened inside the police headquarters in Quezon City and prompted a pause in the government’s campaign against
illegal drugs. Angeles City Judge Irin Zenaida Buan asserted that the pendency of the CA plea os Sta. Isabel and Omlang “will not interrupt the course of the main case,” except when a temporary restraining order has been issued. “In view of this injunction, the Court may rule on the motion of witness Villegas notwithstanding the pending petition with the Honorable Court of Appeals,” the order read. DOJ charged Dumlao, Sta. Isabel and Omlang with the complex crime of kidnapping for ransom with homicide in January 2017. Dumlao, Sta. Isabel and Omlang are currently detained at Angeles City jail. n
Philippines falls in talent competitiveness index MANILA — The Philippines ranked lower in a 2019 talent competitiveness report. Nonetheless, the Southeast Asian nation led the group of lower-middle-income countries in terms of talent edge. Results of the 125-nation Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2019 — published by INSEAD business school, the Adecco Group and Tata Communications — showed the Philippines scored 40.94 out of 100, placing the country at the 58th spot. In 2018, the country ranked 54th out of 119 nations tracked by the report.
The report defines “talent competitiveness” as the set of policies and practices that enable a country to develop, attract and empower the human capital that contributes to productivity and prosperity. “The Philippines has a good pool of Global Knowledge Skills (34th), scoring quite well in both High-Level Skills (37th) and Talent Impact (30th),” the report said. “It is also relatively adept in growing talent (41st), where its strengths in Lifelong Learning (27th) and Access to Growth Opportunities (42nd) offset a
sub-standard Formal Education (85th),” it added. “More discouragingly, the country’s weak Sustainability (88th) and Lifestyle (91st) subpillars result in a low ability to Retain (92nd) talent,” it continued. This year’s Global Talent Competitiveness Index rankings was dominated by Switzerland, which scored 81.82 out of 100, followed by Singapore, the United States, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Luxembourg. Yemen placed on the bottom of the list. (Ian Nicolas Cigaral/ Philstar.com) n
A
‘I really like the Philippines’ Chinese student..
enough in us to study here,” LocPAGE A5 ter the incident happened. sin said in a tweet. “...Charge her. But deport? Meanwhile, Vice President She’s a student who believes Leni Robredo said the incident is
a wake-up call as she raised her concern on the “special treatment” afforded to China by the Duterte government. n
Nations summit in Manila that his country is committed to solving the garbage dumping issue. “I am committed to him (President Rodrigo Duterte) as much as I am committing to you that Canada is working hard to resolve the issue,” he said. “It is now theoretically possible to take it back,” he added, saying legal impediments on the return of the garbage had been resolved. But two years later after his statement, the Canadian garbage is still languishing in the Philippine soil. Trash dumping in the Philippines Lucero of EcoWaste Coalition noted the “stark contrast” between Canada and South Korea on resolving trash-dumping issue. “In contrast to Canada’s apparent disinterest in resolving the issue, South Korea has acted to address illegal waste shipments to the Philippines,” she said. The first batch of garbage illegally brought into the Philippines finally arrived in South Korea last February 4—around seven months after the waste shipments arrived at a port in Mindanao. EcoWaste Coalition earlier called on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources
to ban plastic waste importation “to safeguard human health and the environment.” The Philippines is one of the most plastic polluting countries along with its fellow Asian nations China, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam. In 2018, China closed its doors to plastic waste imports from overseas. Vietnam followed, temporarily banning plastic waste imports after the surge in trash shipment caused by China’s ban. Two months later, Malaysia permanently stopped the issuance of import permits for plastic wastes. An article on The Conversation stressed those living in the global north has responsibility for the plastic crisis in the global south. “The export of waste from the global north to the global south has been controversial for more than 30 years. The United Nations Development Programme argued in 1989 that this perpetuates inequality and supports the movement of waste across borders,” the article said. It cited news reports on how Canada, the United States, United Kingdom and Australia diverted much of their waste to Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam flowing China’s ban on imported waste. n
Eco groups urge Trudeau to finally resolve...
PAGE A5 country’s ports between 2013 and 2014. EcoWaste Coalition said the shipment violated the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal, which says that “the state of export shall ensure that the waste in question are taken back by the exporter or the generator or, if necessary, by itself into the state of export.” The local environmental group also called on Canada to ratify the Basel Ban amendment. The amendment prohibits the export of hazardous waste for any reason from a list of developed countries to developing countries. Canada is one of the eligible countries that have not supported the amendment. Int’l, Canadian groups to Trudeau: Heed EcoWaste’s call International and Canadian environmental, health and human rights organizations backed the latest bid of EcoWaste Coalition to get the garbage returned to its source. In a letter sent to Trudeau last February 11, the groups urged the prime minister to ensure the expeditious return of the wastes dumped in the Philippines and ratify the Basel Ban amendment. “We applauded your earlier statements that Canada is back as a responsible global citizen and intends to provide strong, positive leadership at the United Nations, particularly on environmental issue,” the groups said. They added: “The Basel Convention is an important UN Convention to uphold environmental responsibility and environmental justice. We call on you to demonstrate commitment to the Convention and fulfil the actions requested by the EcoWaste Coalition of the Philippines.” Among the signatories were Greenpeace Canada, Basel Action Network, Toronto Environment Alliance, European Society for Environmental and Occupational Medicine, ToxicsWatch Alliance of India. Trudeau in 2017: Canada committed to cleaning up garbage dumping issue Trudeau said during the 2017 Association of Southeast Asian
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FEBRUARY 15-21, 2019 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 15, 2019
Managing a business and marriage: How 3 Fil-Am couples make it work by
Christina M. Oriel / AJPress
IT’S Valentine’s Day this week and you can expect couples posting on social media about how they’re spending the day, their “love story,” and what they enjoy about one another. Among the relationship dynamics that exist, there is a rare crop of couples who have added another level by working and running a business together. The National Federation of Independent Business reveals that 43 percent of small businesses are family businesses; of that number, 53 percent of managers say a spouse shares day-to-day management duties. Continuing a series by the Asian Journal, in this issue we speak to three couples on the lessons and challenges that come with successfully balancing business and family. Valerie and Zach Fishbain — Los Angeles When Valerie (“Val”) and Zach Fishbain gave away 150 jars of homemade peanut butter — using a Vitamix Valerie received as a bridal shower gift — as their wedding favors in 2013, little did they know that it was a sign of another union they would enter. The peanut butter was a resounding hit that friends would put in special orders, which soon led to the couple acquiring a business license and starting a venture together called Spread the Love based in Los Angeles. “This opportunity presented itself and as an entrepreneur, it was so exciting because it was the chance to build a business quite literally as old as our family,” Zach says. “This business, although we didn’t know it at
the time, started the same day our marriage did.” Nearly six years later (and with two young daughters in tow), Spread the Love’s handcrafted, all-natural, vegan and gluten-free products can be found in over 100 stores across the United States and is an Amazon Best Seller for the peanut butter category. The brand has expanded its offerings from the initial ‘naked’ organic peanut butter to unsalted and crunchy varieties, as well as almond butter and raspberry and marionberry artisanal jams. Delegate and outsource tasks Spread the Love started as a side venture for the couple, with Val working as a social worker for LA County’s Department of Children and Family Services and Zach running a translation and multilingual content creation agency. They would spend their free time concocting peanut butter to sell at weekly farmers’ markets like the one at Melrose Place every Sunday, which “was our test and laboratory, essentially what validated that we had a good product,” Zach shares. The manual process that went into making each jar from their home kitchen took a toll, especially when Valerie was pregnant with their second daughter, so she suggested outsourcing to a facility. “I cried and said, ‘I’m done making peanut butter and doing the farmers market.’ This was heavy work,” she recalls. “We got smart with how we marketed our products so we ended up moving out of our
Val and Zach Fishbain of Spread the Love, which handcrafts all-natural, vegan and gluten-free spreads like peanut and almond butters. Contributed photo
kitchen and into a co-packing facility in Central Valley where our time and effort could be spent growing the business and not necessarily roasting and grinding the peanuts. That’s something we were able to outsource,” Zach says. From the farmers’ markets, Spread the Love made its way onto the shelves of local markets and secured large food service accounts in Los Angeles and nationally, such as Erewhon where they produced buckets of the peanut butter to be used in the market’s ice cream and smoothies, and Porto’s Bakery. Being parents with a business has also led them to seek some help with child care as well. Val notes how her mom is “a very big part of our family and business because she allows Zach and me to really focus on work by helping out with the kids.” Recognize each other’s strengths and set boundaries Val handles most of the branding, marketing and partnerships for the business, while Zach manages the operations, sales and logistics. “I wouldn’t say we stay in each other’s lanes because we’re a small company so there’s overlap but Val and her thought leadership when it comes to brand management will override any decision I may make when it comes to that,” Zach says. “When it comes to production or which shipping carrier to use, some of the less glamorous stuff, that’s on me.” Unlike couples who work separately and can see off-duty hours as time to decompress, it can be easy for entrepreneurial couples to transfer the work to the household. However, the Fishbains agree that a line has to be drawn. “You have to have limits and boundaries…It’s a challenge, but at the same time, it’s a gift because we like being with each other and get to communicate a lot about the family and the business. You have to make it work,” Val shares. They moved to an outside office space last year to delineate that physical boundary between home and work. Having a weekly date is also important to remember they’re a married couple foremost. “Every Thursday night Val
Be careful with your heart
Tips on how to show some TLC for your physical heart by nathalie rObles AJPress
FEBRUARY marks the month when Valentine’s Day is celebrated. Tokens of affection — candies, chocolates, flowers and pieces of jewelry — are often seen sprouting around, with lovers exchanging sweet gifts with each other. Specifically commemorated on the 14th day of the month, Valentine’s is often associated with romance, love and matters involving the heart. The heart is often the metaphor for affection and romance. The organ is the star every month of February, being the default decoration in the celebration of love. More often than not, its figurative representation overpowers its literal one which holds so much meaning in the human body. The heart in its entirety stands out in human anatomy, having more tasks than some of the other organs combined. The heart works as a pump that allows your blood to stream all over your body bringing with it oxygen and nutrients while leaving carbon dioxide and waste products. Along with blood and blood vessels, it makes up the human circulatory system also known as the body’s transport system. That is why taking care of one’s heart should also be of utmost importance. Cardiovascular or heart diseases remain the leading global cause of death with more than 17.9 million deaths each year. That number is expected to rise to more than 23.6 million by 2030. In the U.S. alone, heart
disease is responsible for one in every four deaths; about 735,000 Americans are expected to have a heart attack this year. It is also one of the main causes of death, second only to cancer, for Asian or Pacific Islanders. High blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Other medical conditions and lifestyle choices can also put people at a higher risk for heart disease, including: diabetes, overweight and obesity, poor diet, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol use. However, statistics reveal that about 80 percent of cardiovascular diseases may be preventable with education and prevention. February is American Heart Health Month — which is meant to raise awareness on the dangers of heart disease and what can be done to reduce the risks. Here are some tips to help maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle: Schedule an annual check up and consultation Be familiar with the overall status of your body by scheduling an appointment with your doctor to have your blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels checked. Ask your doctor to help you reach or maintain a healthy weight with consideration to any past and recent medical conditions. Be sure to follow your healthcare professional’s recommendations, including taking prescribed medications as directed. Maintain the prescribed
healthy weight Follow the prescribed healthy weight based on the doctor’s prescription. Excess weight increases your risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. To achieve steady, painless weight loss, follow a lifestyle of a balanced diet and exercise. Each day, if you eat 200-300 calories less than you would normally consume, and exercise at least 30 minutes on most or all days of the week, you’ll get closer to your goal and be able to achieve weight loss that’s steady and painless. Exercise regularly Physical inactivity increases the likelihood of obesity and other medical complications. It is advisable to step, march or jog in place for at least 15 minutes on a daily basis. Increase your activity in increments — like five minutes each week — until you get a minimum of 30 minutes most days of the week. Your physician can help you create a specific exercise regimen that is right for your specific needs. Always hydrate and eat healthy Studies reveal that up to 60 percent of the human body is composed of water. It is a must to take a water bottle with you wherever you go. Consistent rehydration will also help flush out toxins that can be deemed as harmful not only for the heart but for other organs as well. More than keeping one’s body hydrated, the bottle’s weight will also help strengthen one’s arms. Keeping a healthy diet is not just about the consumption of nutritious food nor the avoidance Continued on Page SF6
and I have a date night. Whether we’re at each other’s throats or not, it’s something that’s sacred to us. It’s what allows us to unwind, recharge, reflect and we let any tensions melt. We’re having a good dinner, a bottle of wine, or whatever it is…it’s something we need to do. It really helps us survive as a team and married couple,” Zach says. Be authentic As any successful company can attest to, a strong and authentic brand story establishes a connection with the audience. The Fishbains’ wedding story is the reason why Spread the Love exists — it shows a human element to the brand and customers can trust that they’re talking to actual people. “I came here to the United States when I was 15 so we’re a minority, woman-owned business,” Valerie says of her story as an immigrant from the Philippines. “It’s part of our narrative that we’re very proud of.” Adds Zach, “Our daughters are growing up in a multicultural, multilingual household. They’re seeing mom and dad work hard — they know what Spread the Love is, they ask for it every day and it’s pretty cool as our business, family and lives grow. It’s all very intertwined in a good way.” Align on business plans and goals Going on six years in business, Spread the Love has gotten creative with engaging with its audience, whether it’s partnering with social media influencers who share how they incorporate the products into their daily lives or doing in-person events where potential customers can sample the brand. They are now at the point where they can give back to their community — ‘spreading it forward,’ as the Fishbains say. They teamed up with People Assisting The Homeless (PATH) and held a fundraiser for the organization last year. The couple is conscious when it comes to introducing new products as they don’t want to “spread too thin,” but they can agree that in the coming years, they envision developing more offerings and fortifying Spread the Love as a go-to health brand. “We listen to our audience before we introduce other prod-
In this photo taken by Jersey Journal photographer Reena Sibayan on June 26, 2015, Marisse Panlilio and Cosette Malig celebrate the Supreme Court decision legalizing marriage equality across the 50 states. Contributed photo
Mia McLeod and Len Mercado of McLeod & Associates, a real estate and mortgage company in Walnut, California. Contributed photo
ucts and that’s what we stand for now. We don’t try to be a gourmet company, but we try to be a company that is fueling healthy lifestyles — a company that’s focused on nutrition, quality flavor...something that people can have confidence in, knowing that what they’re feeding themselves and their families is something that is made with integrity and that’s very healthy,” Zach says. Adds Val, “We see ourselves definitely as a leader in the natural food and condiments space. It’s not just peanut butter and almond butter. But we want to do other spreadables, like cream cheese, honey or hummus. We see ourselves getting into more lines of products.” Marisse Panlilio and Cosette Malig — New Jersey Marisse Panlilio and Cosette Malig first met in the Philippines, but reconnected in New Jersey. They have now been together for 29 years and married for three. Over the years, the couple has delved in various entrepreneurial ventures from health care to apparel. But today, they juggle three: MPEntertainment, an events company; MP Grafx, a printing and graphics service; and Popsie’s Mobile Food Concession, a Filipino cuisine pop-up/food truck. “It’s [about] feeding each other’s strengths and correcting one’s weakness and flaws. Patience is the key,” Marisse says. Designate roles Marisse shares that with the three ventures, they have clear roles and responsibilities for each. For MPEntertainment, she trained Cosette on how to
handle the equipment and connect wires and cables because outside contractors wouldn’t take extra care of the expensive equipment. MPGrafx is “pretty much my turf,” Marisse says, but Cosette occasionally helps with t-shirt production and finishing touches on signs and graphics. Cosette is in charge of the front end of Popsie’s, but the two prepare the food together. “She does play an important role in my business,” Marisse says. “There are times when nerves cannot be avoided, but at the end of the day, we realize that it is a day’s worth of work.” Seek advice and feedback Marisse sees Cosette as her “extra eyes and ears” especially when there’s a business decision to be made. “She tells me like it is when she does not feel right or good about a project, an individual, [or] money matters,” Marisse says. Having that sounding board has been proven useful because Marisse is quick to say ‘yes’ on projects or purchases. Cosette “gives me her input on why she thinks it is ok or not. We argue, yes,” Marisse says. “I have invested thousands of dollars in all my businesses from buying a $35,000 printer in cash to countless light and sound equipment for my production company. With my new business, I listen to her input first before I make the move.” Keep it transparent “If we were not meant to be, we would have parted ways a long time ago,” Marisse says. “Twenty-nine years is a testament that love does endure the test of time.” The couple says Continued on Page SF6
Party for one: How singles celebrate Valentine’s Day by ritChel MendiOla AJPress
THE most romantic day of the year is here once again, and the telltale signs are everywhere. An increase in flower sightings — especially red roses — and decorations that range from sweet to overbearing, and love songs being played make sure that you don’t miss out on the holiday. It’s Valentine’s Day, the one day where public displays of affection are celebrated all over the world. For cynics, it’s an occasion invented to produce consumerist desires. But for everyone else, it’s an opportunity to celebrate love through sweet gestures, endearing gifts, or romantic dinners. It’s easy to feel alone during this particular day though, especially if you’re flying solo. The romantic festivities for Valentine’s Day tend to cater more to couples, after all. Because of that, singles find different ways to get through the day. Work first Valentine’s Day happens to fall on a Thursday this year, which means it’s just another workday for Narlyn Balidoy, a junior research consultant for a BPO company. “Work is always busy, so I don’t have time to celebrate Valentine’s Day,” she said, adding that she doesn’t have plans to do anything after work hours either. “I work in a business district; it’ll just be a hassle to brave through the thick crowd. Being single, her feelings to-
ward Valentine’s Day are mostly neutral. A lot of times people feel the need to seek company on this day, but Narlyn said she’s fine on her own. “Even with couples around, I really don’t feel compelled to get a date. I don’t want to wallow in a pity party. I chose to be independent — and I like it,” she said. Figuring it out For Patricia Benito, plans for Valentine’s Day aren’t concrete yet. Currently, she’s in an “it’s complicated” relationship — that weird limbo between being more than friends but less than lovers. “I’d like to think I have plans, but he hasn’t really asked yet,” she said. She admitted that, in the past, Valentine’s Day wasn’t special for her. “I didn’t care that people were being very public with their displays of affection,” she said. “But now it’s different. The day is approaching and I still don’t know if I should get him something because we’re not exactly dating.” For singles who are not totally “single,” Valentine’s Day is like walking a tightrope between expecting something to happen and not wanting to expect that something will happen. Benito, at least, has a backup plan in mind for herself. “I’d probably go to a Valentine’s Day gig for singles and just party,” she shared. “There are a lot of people during Valentine’s Day but it’s nice because even if you’re alone, you won’t feel alone,” she
added. Self-love All types of love are celebrated during Valentine’s Day, and that includes self-love. For Chester Padilla, who experienced a breakup months ago, that’s exactly what he has in mind for the occasion. It’s a completely different experience, celebrating Valentine’s Day alone when you had someone to celebrate it with in the past. Sometimes, the day becomes a bitter, if not cruel, a reminder that your heart isn’t what it used to be anymore. “I get a little nostalgic, and there’s always that twinge whenever I see other couples,” Padilla admitted. “But you learn everything happens for a reason,” he continued. “And acceptance is key. This year, I just want to spend Valentine’s Day with myself.” Other ways to celebrate the day could be to host a dinner party with your fellow single friends, splurge for yourself with a decadent meal complete with dessert or a treatment like a massage, have a movie marathon with films that make you feel good, or unplug from technology and stay off social media. In the end, there are many ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day, whether you’re in a relationship or single — what matters is that you don’t let the weight of the day pull you down. Valentine’s Day is just one day, after all; come February 15, it’ll be a thing of the past.
Another brick in the invisible wall: Overcoming USCIS processing delays immigrate to the United States. The “invisible wall” is the result of polices and practices that have been implemented by USCIS over the last two years with the apparent goal of slowing and reducing legal immigration to the U.S. Some of Atty. Eric r. WElsh these policies include: (1) USCIS’ THE border wall, Donald rescission of longstanding guidTrump’s as-yet unrealized pasance that directed its adjudicasion project, has consumed tors to give deference to prior the political discourse for the applications for extension of past two years. Trump’s wall status of employment-based may or may not ever happen, cases involving the same posibut if it does, it is likely to have tion with the same employer, little effect on the flow of illegal forcing USCIS to reexamine border crossings (which have matters that were previously asalready been steadily declining sessed; (2) overhaul of refugee over the last decade). However, adjudications, bringing many the wall would likely provide an applications to a virtual standincredible market opportunity still; (3) implementing a new for entrepreneurial smugglers in-person interview requirement and traffickers. It would also for all employment-based apstand as an indelible symbol, in plications; and, (4) dramatically the same way that the Statue increasing the number of cases of Liberty once did, although that will be referred to immigrawith a very different message. tion court for removal (deportaIn place of “Give me your tired, tion), including new directives your poor, your huddled masses to issue notices to appear in yearning to breathe free,” it almost all denied applications, would tell the world: “Gated and new measures subjectCommunity—Keep Out.” ing students and visitors with The debate around Trump’s even minor status violations to border wall have largely deportation. obscured the construction of These and other policies another wall against legal imresult in extreme delays and migration that has been taking denials in cases that in the shape since Trump took office. recent past would have swiftly This “invisible wall” is being been approved. AILA recombuilt not with brick and mortar, mends strengthened Congresbut with policy memoranda and sional oversight and heightened internal directives that result USCIS transparency, and this is in dramatic reductions in legal certainly important, considerimmigration and crisis-level ing that USCIS is an executive delays in otherwise meritorious agency controlled by a man applications. A recent analysis who campaigned on a promise by the American Immigration to build walls and reduce immiLawyer’s Association (AILA) gration. Our immigration laws shows that while case receipts grant considerable discretion have leveled or declined, the to the agencies adjudicating backlog of cases awaiting deci- benefits and relief, and many sions by U.S. Citizenship and Im- relief applications are based migration Services (USCIS) has on equitable standards like nearly doubled in the last two “hardship” and “humanitarian years, resulting in dramatically interest” that are subject to slower case processing times interpretive caprice. In the last compared to only a few years two years, for example, USCIS ago. The delays force employhas narrowly interpreted the ers to scale down or seek less meaning of words like “specialty talented workers, and discouroccupation” to make it dramatiage students and others from cally more difficult for foreign seeking to study, work, and workers to qualify for temporary
Your Immigration Solution
visas. Facing such daunting obstacles, a vulnerable and unempowered foreigner may find herself on the outside of this “invisible wall,” losing hope of ever finding a door. Fortunately, the federal courts still provide certain avenues to challenge the immigration service. A person facing agonizing delays far exceeding “standard processing timelines” may consider filing for mandamus relief in district court (i.e., an order from a judge compelling the agency to do its job). A person who receives an adverse decision based on unfair or unwarranted conclusions may have a case for declaratory relief (i.e., a finding by a judge that the agency misapplied the law or failed to correctly analyze the facts or provide basic constitutional safeguards). Even before going to federal court, an applicant may make multiple inquires to seek action on their case (although these options are becoming more and more limited). The “invisible wall” is, in many ways, more frustrating and impossible to scale than the proposed border wall. It is designed to extinguish hope and reduce immigration by frustrating and confounding lawful applicants. For that reason, the best weapons against it are persistence, fortitude, and zealous advocacy by an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney. *** REEVES IMMIGRATION LAW GROUP 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) 795- 8009 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)
entertainment SF A star is born: Fil-Am R&B sensation H.E.R. wins 2 Grammys The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 15, 2019
by Klarize Medenilla AJPress
RISING R&B star H.E.R. had a successful night at the 61st GRAMMY Awards on Sunday, Feb. 10, nabbing two golden gramophones: Best R&B Album for her EP “H.E.R” and Best R&B Performance for “Best Part” with Daniel Caesar. “So first thing I wanna say is this is unbelievable and second, it’s not even an album. It’s an EP!” the 21-year-old artist said in her acceptance speech after winning Best R&B Album. “I’m speechless right now. I’m holding back tears,” the first-time nominee and winner said. H.E.R. was also nominated for Album of the Year (for compilation album, “H.E.R”), Best New Artist, and Best R&B Song (for “Focus”). Wearing her signature dark sunglasses paired with a vibrant fluorescent yellow ensemble, the half-Filipina and half-Black Bay Area native (real name Gabriella “Gabi” Wilson) seemed at home on the Grammy stage. She also took to the stage as a performer, delivering a soulful rendition of “Hard Place” from her nowaward-winning EP. As previously reported in the Asian Journal, the talented H.E.R. (which stands for Having Everything Revealed) has had a busy last few months and is on track to become a mainstay in R&B. In April, she will perform both Sundays of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and is currently working on a debut album. “It feels like I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be,” H.E.R. told the Recording Academy. “It’s so easy to question your art, even to question what you’re doing, to question the path that you’re on. But this is such confirmation to me.
RISING R&B star H.E.R. had a successful night at the 61st GRAMMY Awards on Sunday, Feb. 10, nabbing two golden gramophones: Best R&B Album for her EP “H.E.R” and Best R&B Performance for “Best Part” with Daniel Caesar. Photo from Instagram/@hermusicoffical
It just feels amazing. It feels like I found my objective and I’m fulfilling it. I’m so blessed.” Fil-Am record producer !llmind also nabs Grammy H.E.R. wasn’t the only Fil-Am to win a Grammy on Sunday. Filipino-American record producer and songwriter !llmind (real name Ramon Ibanga, Jr.) won Best Urban Contemporary Album for his work on Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s collaboration album “Every-
thing is Love.” “Woke up to my first Grammy win,” the Brooklynbased producer wrote in an Instagram post. “I’m just so thankful for all the people in my life who truly believe in me. To me, this doesn’t make me better than anyone else. All it does is prove that when you never EVER give up on something you truly feel in your heart, things will eventually manifest.”
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The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 15, 2019
celebrity world
Romance and love this Valentine’s Day: Showbiz couples still going strong
By Ferdie Villar LOVE is in the air more than usual this month of February. Valentine’s Day is special for a lot of people, and so the public tends to inquire into their favorite stars’ personal lives. Maybe because there are so many showbiz couples have fallen out of love, in spite of how long they’ve been together. Here are a few showbiz couples giving us a glimpse into their relationships: Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo Admittedly, Daniel Padilla shared that it’s always a challenge to find time dates with his reel and real life leading lady, Kathryn Bernardo. As one of the most in demand celebrities in the country, the public can easily spot them. But DJ (the actor’s nickname) admitted that one of his memorable dates with Kathryn was the first ones they had. “Siguro yung mga una naming date ni Kathryn. Siyempre yun yung time na kilig ka pa eh (laughs). Konting ano, oh my God. Ganun pa rin naman pero iba yung bago. Iba yun. Alam mo ang pag-ibig masaya pag bago pa (laughs),” he shared. “Pagka medyo mahaba na nandun na yung mga problema pero at the same time andun din yung paraan kung paano maaayos. Yun yung masaya dun, yung adventure ng relationship. Yung malagpasan yung mga problema niyo, mas lalo kayong magiging tight at mamahalin ang isa’t isa,” he explained. Melai Cantiveros and Jason Francisco Romance blossomed for the now married Melai Cantiveros and Jason Franciso when they became housemates in “Pinoy
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Big Brother: Double Up” in 2009. Because the show was seen nationwide, the public — especially Melai’s parents — became witness to how their relationship started. However, a lot of viewers were also not in favor of Jason for her. During the Valentine’s Day special episode of “Magandang Buhay,” the host-comedienne shared that she really fought for her love for Jason. “Actually ipinaglaban ko talaga si Jason. Lalo na ‘yung time namin sa ‘PBB’ na marami talaga ang humuhusga,” she stated. The couple met on Pinoy Big Brother: Double Up in 2009. She also revealed that her parents had second thoughts about Jason before so she also remained firm for their love for each other during that time. Melai and Jason tied the knot in December 2013. They welcomed their first child in April 2014. Melai gave birth to their second child in April 2017. James Reid and Nadine Lustre The reel and real life love team of James Reid and Nadine Lustre celebrated their third year together last Monday, February 11, by spending a few days at a private resort in Batangas. In an Instagram post, the actress shared a photo of James with the simple anniversary message, “ilyssm @james [heart emojis]” I love you so, so much. The couple finally admitted to the public about their relationship at their “JaDine In Love” concert last February 20, 2016. *** The Philippine entertainment industry is in mourning
because of the passing of singer-actress Armida SiguionReyna last Monday, February 11 at the age of 88. According to a close family friend, Tita Midz — as people fondly call her — died due to colon cancer. Aside from being an actress, Tita Midz was also the host of the multi-awarded musical show “Aawitan Kita,” which ran for 34 years. She also served as Actor Daniel Padilla admits that going on a date with girlfriend Kathryn chairman of the Movie and Tel- Bernardo is always a challenge. evision Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) from 1998 to 2001 under former president Joseph Estrada. She is the half-sister of former Senator Juan Ponce Enrile. Her son is respected director Carlos Siguion-Reyna (who is married to actress, writer, director and former MTRCB member Bibeth Orteza). Our condolences to the family.
Singer-actress and a pillar in Philippine showbiz Armida Siguion-Reyna passed away last Monday, February 11.
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Comedienne and “Magandang Buhay” co-host Melai Cantiveros recently shared that she fought for her love for Jason Francisco.
Reel and real love team Nadine Lustre and James Reid celebrated their third anniversary last February 11 by spending time at a private resort in Batangas.
Multi-awarded actor Paulo Avelino is one of the leading actors in the teleserye “The General’s Daughter.”
Actress Janice de Belen is part of the cast of the newest teleserye on ABS-CBN/ The Filipino Channel, “The General’s Daughter.”
Talented actor Zoren Legaspi is proving his talent once again in the recent Valentine’s Day episode of “Magpakailanman.”
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The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 15, 2019
CAREGIVER PETITION ALLOWS ISAAC TO BE REUNITED WITH HIS CHILDREN IN THE U.S. AS GREEN CARD HOLDERS. Driven by the desire to improve his life for his children’s sake, Isaac (left) jumped ship when his ship docked at Los Angeles in 2007. Fortunately, he found an employer who was willing to petition him as a caregiver. The employer’s petition was approved, but Isaac still had to wait several more years before his priority date was current and he was eligible for a green card. All that time, Isaac could not return to the Philippines due to his immigration status. But he still made that sacrifice, knowing it was the right way to do. For him, it was better to wait, if everything was done properly and legally. Isaac knew he was in capable hands under the Law Offices of Michael J. Gurfinkel, who helped obtain green cards for Isaac and his two young sons. Watch this happy family reunion on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday at 6:15 p.m. (PST) on TFC. (Advertising Supplement)
Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ
Can I remarry my first spouse and petition her?
marriage to the U.S. citizen was real or fixed, meaning you married the U.S. citizen only to get a green card. DEAR Atty. Gurfinkel: Therefore, you might have to I divorced my Filipina make a clear and convincing spouse and married a U.S. presentation about the bona citizen who petitioned me for fides of your marriage to the a green card. Unfortunately, American, even though you things did not work out, and I divorced the U.S. citizen. I just are petitioning your spouse. Let’s be honest: many recently took my oath of U.S. times, a couple is truly in love, citizenship. but agree they will divorce My first wife and I have and one of them will marry rekindled our love and are a citizen in a fixed marriage, thinking about getting remarried. She is out of status, and I solely for a green card. Somewould like to petition her. Do times they continue living together (or even have children you think I will encounter any together) while supposedly problems or issues if I marry married and in love with their and petition my first wife? second (US citizen) spouse. Very truly yours, After getting the green card, JT or even U.S. citizenship, they Dear JT: divorce the US citizen and There is nothing wrong or remarry their first spouse. illegal about a person re-marIn your case, if you remarry rying and petitioning their and petition your first spouse, first spouse. However, USCIS although the interview and will likely be concerned or inquiry is supposed to be suspicious on whether your
about the married couple, you will likely be questioned extensively about your marriage to the U.S. citizen. If it truly was for love and you lived together with the U.S. citizen spouse, and truly fell out of love, then it may be worth pursuing a petition of your first wife. If the marriage to the American was fixed, you should not pursue the case, because you were not eligible for your own green card based on the fixed marriage, and USCIS could uncover the fraud and try to put you in removal proceedings or denaturalize you, if they believe your green card was fraudulently obtained. That is why if you are pursuing a petition of a first wife, after having married and obtained a green card through a U.S. citizen, I would strongly recommend you consult with Continued on Page SF6
SF6
people & events
The CTV Files
The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 15, 2019
Calendar of Events across
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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 F E B R UA RY 1 6
Domestic Violence Prevention Symposium in San Fernando, CA The Valley Care Community Consortium partners with the Lions Clubs International/District 4-L3 to host the inaugural Domestic Violence Prevention Symposium to be held on Saturday, February 16, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the San Fernando Regional Recreation Park (208 Park Avenue, San Fernando, CA). Admission is free, open to the public and registration is strongly encouraged. For more information or to register for the event, please contact the Valley Care Community Care Consortium (VCCC) at (818) 904-5566 or email at healthy@valleyccc.org.
F E B R UA RY 2 0
FACCGLA hosts Music and Merlot in Sherman Oaks Join us for evening of Wine & Cheese to unwind after a busy day on Wednesday, February 20 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. as we enjoy the music of jazz guitarist Ric Ickard. Get to know the members of the the Filipino American Chamber of Greater Los Angeles (FACCGLA), and get a chance to tell us about your business or profession. We love to meet new people to share our plans for the year, with some time for a Q & A and inspirational talks from Asian Business owners. We will announce a special perk for our members AND you can be one of the first to get hold of the FilAm Entrepreneurship Magazine. Register at www.faccgla.org. Venue is BFG Room, 2nd floor, 5121 Van Nuys Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403.
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
Senior Care Business Talk AMI LOW GAN A Senior Care Home is also known as board and care, residential care facility for the elderly (RCFE) and assisted living facility. It is a place where non-medical care is provided to residents 60 years old and over, assisting them with their activities of daily living (ADL). As a consultant, the most frequent question asked is the profitability of a senior care home business. Many are interested to venture into this growing industry, and understanding the market is key to your success in this business. The United States has projected a significant growth in the 65 & older population between 2012 and 2050. The estimated 43.1 million is projected to double to 83.7 million by 2050 according to the U.S. Census. The increase was largely attributed to baby boomers who started to enter 65 years old age group in 2011. Baby Boomers are currently the second largest living generation in the United States. In the U.S. alone, elder care is projected to be worth an approximately $400 billion industry by 2018 as reported by the Freedonia Group. The growth of this market has resulted in the strong demand for elderly care services
Senior Care Home business 101
which includes the Senior Care Home business. If you’re interested in operating a senior care home facility, the first step is to get an RCFE Orientation One Certificate acquired online with the Department of Social Services at the www.ccld. ca.gov. Attending the 40-hour RCFE Administrator class is also recommended. This class covers the state regulatory requirements for operating a facility. Once you have the location of the facility, the next step is to apply for licensure with the Department of Social Services Community Licensing Department. The license application comprises of Section A, which involves filing out licensing forms provided by the State, and Section B which will be your program design similar to your business plan. For more information, you may contact Gan Consulting at (707) 853-6691. Here are the number of licensed Residential Care Facilities for the elderly in major cities in Northern California: There are 60 facilities in Vallejo, 35 facilities in Fairfield, 22 facilities in Vacaville, 6 facilities in Benicia, 5 facilities in American Canyon, 26 facilities in Napa, 66 facilities in San Francisco, 20 facilities in Daly City, 39 facilities in South San Francisco, 34 facilities in San
Bruno, 13 facilities in Millbrae, 74 facilities in San Mateo, 87 facilities in Concord, 25 facilities in Pleasant Hill, 79 facilities in Walnut Creek, 22 facilities in Alamo, 14 facilities in Danville, 21 facilities in San Ramon, 8 facilities in Dublin, 19 facilities in Pleasanton, 34 facilities in Livermore, 36 facilities in Fremont, 19 facilities in San Leandro, 30 facilities in Union City, 33 facilities in Oakland, 10 facilities in San Pablo, 6 in Milpitas, 8 facilities in Mountain View, 4 facilities in Saratoga, 8 facilities in Morgan Hill, 14 facilities in Santa Clara, 3 facilities in Cupertino, 10 facilities in Palo Alto, 26 facilities in Sunnyvale, and 166 facilities in San Jose. *** Ami Low is a senior care home consultant for Gan Consulting and assists with State licensing applications. She is also a Senior Care Home Realtor specializing in the buying and selling of senior care home facilities. She took Marketing Management in De La Salle University and executive MBA in University of California Los Angeles. For more information, you may reach her at (707) 853-6691 and (925) 964-7700 or ami@amiglow.com.
*** Disclaimer: The information provided in this column are opinions and data information were taken from the U.S. Census, CCLD website and Freedonia Group. Readers are advised to do their own research on the accuracy of data provided. Further, the information provided does not constitute a client-consultant relationship.
Can I remarry my first spouse...
From Page SF5 an immigration attorney, who can evaluate your case, and help prepare and document your case, including the marriage to the U.S. citizen. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bars of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an ac-
tive member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different and results may depend on the facts of the particular case. The information and opinions contained herein (including testimonials, “Success Stories”, endorsements and re-enactments) are of a general nature, and are not intended to apply to any particular case, and do not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client rela-
tionship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw and Twitter @GurfinkelLaw Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: 1-866-487-3465 (866) – GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)
Be careful with your heart...
From Page SF2 of junk food. It is equally important to know how to cut off your supply of salty, fatty, cholesterolrich and diabetes-inducing food. Fruits and veggies, low-fat or fat-free dairy products and whole grains are the most common alternatives to help reduce the risk of cardiovascular and heart diseases. Quit smoking Habitual cigarette and tobacco use is harmful to any organs in the human body. Even inhalation of secondhand smoke can cause lung cancer so it is important to refrain from smoking. If one has
started smoking, it is essential to gradually quit the habit by cutting off its consumption slowly to avoid withdrawals. In line with the said tips and precautions, the United States government has also designated an event to remind Americans to focus on their hearts and encourage them to get their families, friends and communities involved. Aptly placed in the month of February in 1964, the American Heart Month is commemorated to remind the people that cardiovascular diseases know no borders. The biggest part of living
healthy comes down to simply making healthy choices. While you can’t change things like age and family history, the good news is that even modest changes to your diet and lifestyle can improve your heart health and lower your risk by as much as 80 percent. As Proverbs 4:23 said, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” What the said scripture meant remains a mystery. However, guarding your heart could save you from getting hurt — figuratively and literally.
Playing the waiting game: Processing delays at USCIS
Currently, according to the article, I-751 Petitions proceed as follows: (i) 89 days CASE example: I-751 before expiration of the apapplications. In her article plicant’s conditional permanent entitled “Agency Delays Enact residency card – Applicant files the Administration’s ImmigraForm I-751 with USCIS; (ii) 2 tion Agenda” Sandra Feist months later, filing fee checks examines the processing delays are cashed and receipt notice is currently plaguing one particuissued by USCIS; (iii) 2 years latlar application: the Removal er, based on client experiences, of Conditions on Permanent Approval notice or interview Residence. She begins with a notice arrives in the mail. brief history of how the “conProcessing times for other ditional permanent resident related applications. Similar status” came about: “In 1986, delays are happening across as part of President Reagan’s the board. For example, a famcomprehensive, bipartisan imily-based Adjustment of Status migration reform bill, Congress application which used to take enacted the current framework approximately 4 – 6 months is for marriage-based permanent now estimated to be around 17 residence to require a two-year – 35.5 months in district offices interim green card. At the twolike San Francisco, California. year mark, these green card As well, Naturalization applicaholders are required to file Peti- tions are currently estimated tions for Removal of Conditions at 10 – 19.5 months. Further, on Permanent Residence with Employment Authorization USCIS. Applicants must wait documents are now estimated until the 90-day window before at about 4 – 6 months, when it the two-year anniversary of their used to be 90 days. green card approval to file their Tips on how to best ride I-751 petition before the expira- out the delays. Plan and cretion date on that card. Other ate a timeline. Work with your than immigrant investors, this is attorney to plan out the 90-day the only instance in immigration filing window. Moreover, comlaw where a timeline for filing a municate with your attorney petition with USCIS is specifiany planned travels to and from cally limited to a 90-day filing the United States or changes window.” in employment where the Current processing times: status of your lawful permanent ATTY. LILLI BERBANO BACULI, ESQ
residence may arise. Your attorney will be able to guide you so that you have the proper documentation when traveling, as well as proper documentation to show a prospective employer. Consult with a licensed and experienced immigration attorney before filing. Individuals must proceed with caution when filing for any application with USCIS. Just because it is easier now to file for an application does not mean that you should, without sound counsel of an experienced immigration attorney. We urge individuals to pause and take the time to consult with a licensed and experienced immigration attorney before submitting any application with USCIS. *** Atty. Lilli Berbano Baculi is an associate attorney with Chua Tinsay & Vega, A Professional Legal Corporation (CTV) - a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento and Philippines. The information presented in this article is for general information only and is not, nor intended to be, formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorney-client relationship. Call or e-mail CTV for an in-person or phone consultation to discuss your particular situation and/or how their services may be retained at (619) 955-6277; (415) 495-8088; (916) 449-3923; lbaculi@ctvattys.com; www.chuatinsayvega.com. (Advertising Supplement)
Managing a business and marriage...
From Page SF2 having no secrets and adopting and rescuing pets (“great pacifiers” that they treat as their own children) have contributed to the longevity of their relationship. Spend time out outside of work, but also give each other space When they’re not mounting events, the couple likes to go watch movies, eat out and have a routine where they destress and spend time together outside of a professional setting. They also make sure to give each other space, like Marisse going out to run errands alone, while Cosette stays at home to catch up on her favorite TV shows. Mia McLeod and Leonard Mercado — Walnut, CA When Mia McLeod and Leonard “Len” Mercado met over a decade ago, it was “instant chemistry.” The couple can thank Mia’s mom for playing matchmaker after she introduced Len to Mia because they were both real estate brokers. In 2004, Mia established McLeod & Associates, a real estate and mortgage company in Walnut, California, at the age of 22 and was recognized as a 30 under 30 honoree by Realtor Magazine at 25. “I was in the thick of my career and I was super driven in building my own business. The chemistry was so strong but I almost didn’t want to see it in a way because I wanted to stay focused on my business,” Mia recalls her initial interactions with Len. “But when it’s really meant to be, there’s nothing you can do.” Len joined Mia’s team as a broker in 2008, but their relationship was professional and platonic. In fact, he would see her leave work at the end of the day and head to dinner dates. Set a professional working environment When Mia and Len started dating, they kept it professional and private that their colleagues, for the most part, did not sense there was a romance brewing between the two. Mia says she was discreet about the relationship until she was “comfortable” enough to share it with her team. When she was ready, she called a meeting and told them because she “knew we would move into the next stage where engagement and all of that would come.” Mia and Len got engaged in 2014 and were married the year after. Len, who started out as a broker associate at the firm, is now also a partner. “Even to this day as husband and wife, we are still professional and keep that same environment,” Mia says. Though, don’t expect their office atmosphere to be stiff and uptight. Len, who is known for his playful humor, says that being in business together is serious, but that doesn’t mean “you should take yourself so
seriously.” “He has grit, perseverance, strength, and a caring and loving spirit, while I’m more of a feeler and have a strong intuition. Bringing those two spirits together has worked well for us,” Mia shares, adding that the way that they communicate with each other and their team is without much of a filter, but “we just say how we feel in a caring way. What you see is what you get.” Len also says that they are intentional and think about whether their responses would add value to a situation, especially on sensitive topics because “sometimes proving a point doesn’t serve anyone.” Seek mentors and have a conflict resolution plan Over the years, Mia began to understand the importance of personal and leadership development and has since extended those opportunities to her team members through access to coaches, trainings, and a monthly book club for example. She and Len have mentors for their work and personal lives, such as coaches, role models in their industry, or other couples in the community. When brainstorming or having to make crucial decisions, Len says they turn to one of their trusted advisers for guidance or they take on the mindset of these people and think about how they would handle the scenario. “We also ask, ‘Are we looking at it in alignment with our core values and purpose?’” he adds. They have found that their values and mindsets are so aligned that even if a team member asks them a question separately, they will usually have the same answer. One of the questions they frequently get asked is, ‘do you both ever fight?’ to which they laugh at because they “are not super humans,” Mia says. Though they do have small ‘fights’ — which “people find refreshing and relieving to hear” — they choose their battles and remember that the end goal is to find a solution. “Conflict happens but it doesn’t feel like it happens. I hate to sound like it’s all rainbows and unicorns because it’s not. The truth is, when you dig deeper and when you understand that your goals, purpose and dreams are the same and you respect each other, for us at least, it’s really hard to get into heated conflict and discussions,” Mia says. “It doesn’t really happen on the business side, it’s more of asking questions: Are we missing something by not looking at it this way? Do we need to bring in a coach to help us find clarity in this particular decision? It’s more that so it never becomes what you think of as an argument or conflict.” Cherish the time together and be each other’s champions The couple warns that working together is not for every
couple, but they don’t take it for granted that they spend almost 24/7 with one another. Faith is a core value for them so they pray daily and carve out time for church on Sundays. On most days, they carpool to the office and have lunch together which allows them to catch up and talk about a multitude of things beyond work too. “These are special things that are not typical in today’s environment because both husband and wife are working,” Mia says. “When we talk to our other friends, couples and even clients, we realize what a blessing it is because a lot of these people…don’t really get to see their significant other because they’re so busy in their individual careers,” Len says. “So for another relationship if I was working elsewhere and in a totally different frame of mind, I could see how that could cause some friction. If you’re not growing together, you’re growing apart.” The couple also shares that one of their recipes to success is having that support system, whether it’s understanding that they need to shut off work or finding opportunities to boost their business. Each year, Mia has a handful of speaking engagements and workshops, “which makes me proud as her husband and partner,” Len says. “Why wouldn’t you want to be with a boss lady and…do everything you could to support your partner? I know Mia is very supportive of me,” he adds. “Mia gets invited to all these engagements and I want to see more of them because she has so much substance to share. If I could support that, would that make me insecure? Absolutely not.” Define a purpose statement Mia and Len advise that couples who want to be in a venture together must have a guiding principle to remind them why they’re in this business. Though selling homes is what McLeod & Associates does, at its heart they are focused on the difference they make in people’s lives and what kind of legacy they want to leave — that is something they want to impart on their one-year-old son Leon as well. “The purpose statement, how you decide you want to live your life and the impact you want to make, needs to be so clear. In a marriage, what kind of life do you want to live together? You really have to put time and effort into that statement because when challenges do come up — because they will — that will be your foundation and you can always go back and build on that,” Mia says. “If you’re coming together for a business or a project, you need to understand why and the purpose behind that and make sure you are 100 percent aligned there.”
entertainment
SF
The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 15, 2019
Armida Siguion-Reyna passes away at 88 by Ricky Lo Philstar.com
THE entertainment industry is mourning the passing of Armida Siguion-Reyna at 3 on Monday, February 11 at the ICU of a Makati hospital. She turned 88 on Nov. 4. As of Tuesday, February 12, members of the family were not available for comment on what caused the death of the feisty head of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) during the Estrada administration and a strong defender of the industry that she loved so much. Fondly known as Tita Midz, she left an impressive body of tri-media work – in television, theater and film. Her well-loved and enduring TV show “Aawitan Kita� is considered a national treasure as Tita Midz also was.
Armida Siguion-Reyna
Armida Ponce Enrile SiguionReyna was the daughter of Spanish lawyer-politician Alfonso Ponce Enrile, and the sister of artist Irma Potenciano and halfsister of former senator Juan Ponce Enrile. In the world of opera, she performed lead roles in “Lucia de Lammermoor,� “Rigoletto,� “La Traviata,� “I Pagliacci,� “The
Merry Widowâ€? and “Ang Mestizaâ€? (a zarzuela). In television, aside from “Aawitan Kitaâ€? where she sang kundiman and harana among other Filipino classics, she also hosted “Cooking Atbpâ€? and “Let’s Talk Moviesâ€?, one of the early showbiz-oriented talk shows with Mario Bautista as co-host. She recorded two “Aawitan Kitaâ€? albums for Villar Records and Dyna Records, and another album titled “Sa Lungkot at Saya‌ Aawitan Kitaâ€? (Viva Records). She put up two companies, Pera Films and Reyna Films, that produced films directed by her son, Carlitos Siguion Reyna (married to actress-scriptwriter Bibeth Orteza), among them “Laruang Apoyâ€? and “Bilanggong Birhen.â€? As of press time, the family hasn’t announced where the wake and when the interment will be.
Enrique, Liza admit two-year relationship on TV show by Jan MiLo SeveRo Philstar.com
LOVE team Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano have officially confirmed that they are already in a relationship. During the Lie Detector Test segment of “Gandang Gabi Vice,� host Vice Ganda asked Enrique if he and Liza are already a couple. Enrique answered “Yes,� which drew cheers from the audience. Liza later admitted that she and Enrique have been in a relationship for more than two years and that they celebrate their anniversary in October. Last March 2018, during the press conference of their show “Bagani,� Liza slipped that she and Enrique are in a relationship. Press conference host MJ Felipe asked the cast if all
Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano
the “Bagani� main characters are already taken, which Liza replied with “O.� She later then tried to pull back her answer “Oo� with “Oh no.� To make it clear, MJ repeated his question, and this time, Enrique answered a firm and loud “Yes!� In an exclusive interview with The Star’s Ricky Lo published recently, the veteran
ABS-CBN photo
journalist asked Enrique, “Are you and Liza alone or together?� which he answered, “Yes, we are.� When asked if “On-screen or off-screen?� the young actor replied, “On screen and off screen. I wanna say that we are together.� The couple’s Valentine movie “Alone/Together� started showing in cinemas nationwide last February 13.
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The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 15, 2019