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MAY 9-15, 2019
T H E F I L I P I N O –A M E R I C A N C O M M U N I T Y N E W S PA P E R
Volume 30 - No. 19 • 16 Pages
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DATELINE PH, US plan bigger joint army exercises in 2020 FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
THE armies of the Philippines and United States are planning to stage bigger joint exercises next year with the presence of more American troops. The military drills will involve the brigade combat teams or mobile maneuver force of the Philippine Army and U.S. Army Pacific Command (USARPAC). A brigade is usually composed of around 1,500 soldiers. “There is a proposed concept to expand the Salaknib through the participation of more troops from the USARPAC. Under the proposed expansion, they shall send a whole brigade composed of about 1,700 troops for Salaknib 2020,” Army public affairs chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said Wednesday, May 8. “As part of the Mutual Defense Treaty, this is a way to prepare for large-scale conflict should it happen,” he added. Salaknib is an annual, bilateral exercise between the Philippine Army and USARPAC aimed at enhancing the interoperability in conventional warfare and counterterrorism operations. Held since 2015 in the Philippines, the Salaknib is a preparation for the annual largescale exercise Balikatan. The USARPAC sent less than 1,000 troops for the exercises carried out early this year,
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Measures for Filipino workers highlighted at 100th anniversary of International Labor Organization THE Philippines has highlighted initiatives that ensure decent work and social protection of Filipino workers during the 100th anniversary celebration of the International Labor Organization (ILO). In addressing the emerging challenges in the future of work, chargé d’ affaires and deputy permanent representative to the UN Kira Christianne Azucena said the country focuses on promoting decent work while protecting the rights and welfare of Filipino workers at home and overseas. During the event, held recently in New York, Azucena enumerated measures to showcase these initiatives. These include the Green Jobs Act of 2016, which provides incentives to enterprises generating green jobs; the Telecommuting Act, which allows an employee to work from home or other alternative workplace through the
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‘Plot vs Duterte may include assassination’ by CATHERINE
VALENTE ManilaTimes.net
THE destabilization plot against President Rodrigo Duterte might include a plan to assassinate the Chief Executive, an official of Dakilang Lahi Foundation said on Tuesday, May 7. Anthony Castelo, former Quezon City councilor and now president of the Dakilang Lahi Foundation, called on Filipinos to pray for Duterte’s safety amid an “assassination” threat against the president. “I strongly believe that there’s a serious ‘Oust Duterte’ plot now in full swing that may include the assassination of the president as an option,” Castelo said in a statement.
“We must pray for the safety of the president and protection of our country,” he added. Castelo’s statement came weeks after Malacañang released a matrix that linked several journalists to a supposed ouster plot against Duterte. The groups tagged in the alleged plot denied the allegations. Castelo, one of the Philippines’ music icons, said “history tells us that the most appropriate time for perpetrators to execute a plan to unseat a president in office, is when people are divided right around a national election period.” “We’ve seen this happen during the time of president [Ferdinand]Marcos in 1986 and president [Jo-
seph] Estrada in 2001 — where a planned assassination of both presidents were indeed an option, it just did not materialize,” he added. He said the so-called “Oust Duterte” plot “was hatched early on and has been in motion since the president’s first day in office in 2016.” “However, for this plot to succeed, it must have public support and military backing,” he pointed out. This, he added, was unlikely since the President’s popularity rating remained high and he was a “darling” of the military. Castelo warned that those behind the “grand destabilization plot” might, in a desperate move, “opt
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Peter Joemel Advincula, the man who surfaced and claimed to be “Bikoy” in the “Ang Totoong Narco-list” videos that linked several relatives of President Duterte to the illegal drug trade in the country. Philstar.com photo
Senate cancels hearing on Bikoy’s allegations by NATHALIE
ROBLES
AJPress
THE scheduled Senate investigation on Friday, May 10, regarding the allegations presented by Bikoy, the hooded figure in the “Ang Totoong Narcolist” videos THANKSGIVING DINNER. President Rodrigo Duterte and his long-time partner Cielito “Honeylet” Avanceña strike the President’s signature will no longer push through. pose with the guests during a dinner hosted by the president at the Malacañang Palace on Tuesday, May 7. Many of the stars who attended In a Twitter post on Wednesday, May 8, Senate Com- either backed Duterte’s campaign or have been spotted in political sorties alongside senatorial candidate Bong Go, Duterte’s former
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presidential assistant.
Malacañang photo by Valerie Escalera
West PH Sea faces new problem — garbage Marine scientists explains how our activities is the biggest threat on ecosystems by RITCHEL
MENDIOLA AJPress
THE sight of plastic waste and other floating garbage greeted a team of young marine scientists when they sailed the Kalayaan Island Group in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) to study its biodiversity. Led by the University of the Philippines’ Marine Science InDuring a recent marine science expedition, researchers from the University of the Philippines found plastic bottles, sachets, cigarette packs and stitute (UP MSI), the 74-member fluorescent lamps, among other garbage, on sandbars in the Kalayaan “Protect WPS” expedition, or Predicting Responses between Workers arrange ballot boxes before they are distributed to designated polling precincts for Island Group, areas in the South China Sea claimed by Manila. the elections on Monday, May 13. Philstar.com photo by Edd Gumban
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Photos courtesy of UP Marine Science Institute
DOLE to inspect Chinese-owned firms Comelec ready for May 13 elections by RITCHEL
by HELEN
Chinese workers walk past posters showing images of home as they begin the day’s work on the China-funded Binondo-Intramuros Bridge in Manila. Inquirer.net photo by Joan Bondoc
MENDIOLA AJPress
FLORES, MAYEN JAYMALIN Philstar.com
MANILA — The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) will check if Chinese firms in the country are complying with labor laws. Labor Assistant Secretary Benjo Benavidez made the commitment in response to reports that some Chinese-owned firms and establishments in the country cater exclusively to Chinese nationals and are openly barring Filipinos. “We will look into the employment side,” Benavidez said, noting that ensuring consumer protection is beyond DOLE’s authority. Labor groups were demand-
ing the hiring of more Filipino workers for China-funded construction projects. “Jobs in the construction industry should increase given the massive amount of investment we are pouring into it. But how many workers actually benefited from these jobs? How many of them are Filipinos workers and how many are Chinese? And more importantly, how decent are these jobs generated?” Nagkaisa labor coalition Sonny Matula said. He said possibly only a few Filipino workers are benefitting from jobs generated by Chinese-
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THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Tuesday, May 7, began its final testing and sealing (FTS) of the 85,000 vote counting machines (VCMs). This will determine if the VCMs can count the votes accurately as well as if the results will be transmitted to the canvassing centers from the polling precincts. “We are ready,” said James Jimenez, spokesman for the Comelec. “The delivery of election materials is almost 100 percent complete.” Members of the media were toured by the Comelec around the PICC-The Forum facility, where the national canvassing of ballots will be held. The Comelec expects to an-
nounce the winners in the local elections within 24 to 36 hours after voting closes at the polling precincts. For the proclamation of the Magic 12 in the senatorial race, meanwhile, the target is within two weeks after the elections. Both the Comelec and Philippine National Police (PNP) are hopeful that the midterm polls will have peace and order. According to Jimenez, fewer areas are considered poll hotspots. Less than 550 areas fall under Category Red, which is the highest stage among the hotspots, due to the presence of armed groups and history of election-related violence. “I think this is important because at the start of the year or even before the election period,
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From The FronT Page
‘Plot vs Duterte may include...
PAGE 1 to use their last card — to assassinate the president.� Sought for comment, Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo urged Castelo to show evidence to prove his claims. The Palace official said the supposed plan to kill Duterte was nothing new since it was public knowledge that the Chief Execu-
tive had made many enemies. Panelo said the Presidential Security Group (PSG) was doing its job to keep the president safe. “The PSG knows its job. Another thing, alam mo (you know) this president couldn’t care less whether you assassinate him. ‘Yun nga ang kagandahan sa Presidenteng ito, e, (That’s what’s
really good about the President, he’s a) daredevil. He dares everyone, ‘e ‘di patayin niyo kung gusto niyo, basta (you can kill me if you want, but) I’ll work, that’s my mandate,’� he added. It was not the first time that the possibility of an assassination plot against Duterte was raised. In his previous speeches, the president himself bared the alleged assassination plot by the United States’ Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) against him. In April 2018, Duterte said the CIA “should be blamed� if he gets killed. The president, in October 2017, also claimed he received reports that the CIA was planning to kill him. The allegations of Duterte has repeatedly been denied by the U.S. n
PH, US plan...
PAGE 1 while the Philippines sent around 1,500 soldiers. The Philippine Army is looking at its rapid deployment force, the 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT), to participate in next year’s Salaknib. “It’s a complete force. It has infantry, artillery, armor, signal, aviation. It’s complete and across the board‌ We hope to learn from the Americans how they structure their brigade command team and we can learn from their best practices. We want to adopt that because for long, we’ve been infantry-based only,â€? Zagala said. The 1st Brigade Combat Team was activated in late 2018 and is based at Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija. Another brigade combat team will be activated this year. The proposed larger exercise was one of the topics discussed by Army chief Lt. Gen. Macairog Alberto and USARPAC deputy chief Maj. Gen. John Johnson’s meeting last Monday, May 6, at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. “This is all about making us more ready, and whatever challenges the future might hold. We are committed to this region, the design of [Salaknib 2020] exercise is purposeful in demonstrating that commitment,â€? Johnson was quoted as saying. (Inquirer. net)
TEACHERS’ HOTLINE. Members of the Quezon City Public School Teachers Association and Alliance of Concerned Teachers-National Capital Region launch election hotlines in Quezon City on Sunday, May 5, for teachers working during the poll day. ManilaTimes.net photo by Rudy Martinez
Senate cancels hearing on Bikoy’s... PAGE 1 mittee on Public Order Senator Panfilo Lacson announced the cancellation of the said Senate hearing noting “enough of this nonsense.� Bikoy, who was recently identified as Peter Joemel Advincula, claimed in his videos that drug money was funneled into the bank accounts of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s son and former Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte. “We are now recalling the letter of invitation sent to Advincula. Notices will be sent out for the cancellation of the committee hearing on Friday. The problem with asking Bikoy who are the people behind him is if we will believe him,� Lacson said. In the videos that circulated online, Advincula claimed that the president’s son-in-law Atty. Manases Carpio and former Special Assistant to the President (SAP) and senatorial candidate Christopher Go were also involved in illegal drug activities. Sotto: Bikoy is not credible Senate President Vicente Tito Sotto III revealed before the media that Advincula reached out in his office back in 2016 to link former president Benigno “Noynoy� Aquino III, former Interior Secretary Mar Roxas and former Justice Secretary Leila de Lima to a
purported drug syndicate. “Doon sa sinumpaang salaysay niya (Advincula) nung 2016, meron siyang tinatawag na mga patron. Ito yung mga bigshot. Ito yung nasa ibabaw ng drug syndicate according to his description in his affidavit (In Advincula’s sworn statement in 2016, he said that there were patrons. These are the bigshot individuals. These are the people at the top of the drug syndicates according to his description in his affidavit),� Sotto said as reported by The Philippine Daily Inquirer. “Dun sa mga patron na sinasabi, sa listahan, may mga codecode pa siya (Those patrons, in the list, they have codes) former President Benigno Aquino, former DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government) Secretary Mar Roxas, former DOJ (Department of Justice) Secretary Leila de Lima,� he added. Sotto said that Advincula consulted his staff member Hutch Altavaz who documented the entire thing with a sworn affidavit. Altavaz and Sotto said that there are similarities in the 2016 sworn affidavit and the one submitted before the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP). “We pieced this together already. [May] affidavit na ginawa ni Peter Joemel Advincula. Dito sa sinumpaang salaysay niya.
Makikita ninyo yung pagkahawig doon sa Bikoy series at saka doon sa statement niya dun sa IBP (We pieced this together already. There is an affidavit made by Peter Joemel Advincula. Here in the sworn statement, you can see the resemblance with the Bikoy series and the sworn statement he submitted to the IBP),� the Senate president said. The IBP, on one hand, rejected the request for free legal assistance of Advincula. DOJ: Advincula may be charged with sedition The Department of Justice may include Peter Joemel Advincula in the inciting to sedition complaint against Rodel Jayme, the supposed website administrator of metrobalita, whom the National Bureau of Investigation took into custody last week. “The NBI is waiting for Advincula/Bikoy to show up and submit his complaint with supporting evidence against the persons he implicated in the illegal drug trade,� Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra told reporters. “Should he fail to do so, the DOJ will consider his possible inclusion in Rodel Jayme’s inciting to sedition case or indictment for other criminal charges after proper investigation,� he added as reported by The Philippine Star. n
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DOLE to inspect Chinese-owned... PAGE 1
funded infrastructure projects. Meanwhile, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOr) said it would not let Chinese workers take jobs away from Filipinos. in a statement, PAGCOr said that “together with its partner agencies,” it would come out with a circular that “will ensure that the Chinese workers in the Philippines will not take away the employment opportunities of Filipinos in their own country.” the state gaming regulator issued the statement in response to Vice President Leni robredo’s recent pronouncement that the government should not allow
Chinese nationals to work in the Philippines in offshore gambling firms that are banned in their country. the agency also clarified that unlike in China, online gambling is allowed in the Philippines but only for offshore-based players from countries where online gaming is allowed. “Considering that a considerable number of offshore gaming players are Chinese-speaking but based in countries other than China, many offshore gaming firms operating in the Philippines hire Chinese-speaking customer service providers to cater to the unique needs of their clientele,” PAGCOr said.
Dateline USa
use of telecommunication and/or computer technologies; and the Occupational safety Health Law, which mandates employers’ strict compliance with workplace safety standards. the measures, Azucena said,
include the expanded Maternity Leave law, which grants working mothers in both government and private sector 105 days of paid maternity leave credits, seven days of which are transferable to fathers, and an additional 15 days paid leave to single mothers, and
the Handbook for OFWs Act of 2018, which requires the Philippine Overseas employment Administration to publish and distribute handbooks containing their rights and responsibilities to overseas Filipino workers. (Pia Lee-Brago/Philstar.com)
West PH Sea faces new problem... PAGE 1
Ocean transport and ecological Connectivity of threatened ecosystems in WPs, left Manila on April 22 with the aim of looking at the “connectivity” of the ecosystems in the WPs and its impact on Luzon and Palawan province. Plastic bottles, cigarette packs, discarded fishing equipment, rubber slippers and even fluorescent lamps were among the pollutants that the researchers saw floating in the waters. the labels from the bottles revealed that they had come from the Philippines, Vietnam and China. “those are things that you wouldn’t expect to be there,” deo Florence Onda, the team’s chief scientist, said. “We have such a rich biodiversity in the area, but you also have this problem, this threat that accumulates over time,” he added. Aside from the open sea, the man-made wastes were also found on several sandbars in nearby reefs. they had amassed into a mound of garbage in the middle of a sandbar on Kota (Loaita) island. “For a place [as far away] as that, we wouldn’t expect anything like this,” said Kevin Labrador, a graduate student who
volunteered to join the expedition. Based on the researchers’ calculations, it would take over a day for a boat from the nearest city to reach the islet. the information about the distance and travel time gave them an idea how much and how far the man-made wastes are covering parts of the country’s exclusive economic zone (eeZ). “We were really taken aback,” Labrador added. the team collected at least five crates of trash from the area for research and concluded that the garbage had been on the water for a long time based on the dried biofilms that surrounded them. Onda added that the garbage is not only a danger to marine mammals like whales and dolphins, but to ecosystems as well since it could carry pathogenic invasive species that could affect the local biodiversity of where they might settle. “it really indicates that the problem is transboundary,” he said. “even if it’s already far away, our activities still impact these ecosystems,” Onda added. Wilfred John santiañez, an assistant professor of UP Msi who
“PAGCOr upholds strict adherence by licensed operators and accredited service providers to whatever laws which may be applicable to them.” in a recent interview in Palawan, robredo said allowing Chinese workers to do in the Philippines what is illegal in their country is a “big insult” to Filipinos. “there were residents of Palawan who informed me that these Chinese started with online gaming activities in the province. My question is, did they come here because this (online gaming) is prohibited in their country? then why are we allowing TRASHY BUSINESS. Heavy equipment is used to unload freight boxes containing trash from Canada at a sanitary landfill of Metro Clark Waste Management Corp. (MCWMC) in Capas, Tarlac province. MCWMC file photo them?” she said. n
Measures for Filipino workers highlighted at... PAGE 1
LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • mAy 9-15, 2019
was also with the team during its two-week expedition, also noted that the reefs in the Kalayaan island Group had suffered from other threats as well. According to the team’s observations, the craters at certain reefs indicated cyanide fishing. there were also some pounded corals. Bleached corals near Pagasa (thitu) island, meanwhile, were the result of the warming ocean waters, worsened by climate change. Onda said continuous human activity, like China’s island-building, could have an impact on the fragile reefs and the ecosystem in the WPs. “You cannot exclude these activities, but we still do not know at this point its direct influence and its extent,” he said. the chief scientist expects the results of their study would have significant contribution to effective management of marine environment especially since the government is eyeing the Kalayaan island Group as the next marine protected area. “it would be difficult to protect and craft policy and management plans if we don’t know what is in there and what we are protecting and managing,” Onda said. n
O Canada: Duterte sets May15 deadline to take trash back President rodrigo duterte gave Canada until May 15 to ship out the garbage it illegally shipped to the Philippines around five years ago, Malacañang said tuesday, May 7. Presidential spokesperson salvador Panelo said if Canada fails to comply with the deadline, the government will be shipping out and throwing the trash on Canada’s beaches. “they were given—the president gave May 15 as the deadline. if they cannot get that, then we will be shipping them out
and throw them to the shores or beach of Canada,” Panelo said in a Palace briefing. the issue was tackled during the Cabinet meeting in Malacañang on Monday night, May 6, where the Foreign Affairs department said the Canadian government vowed to shoulder all the expenses in shipping out the tons of garbage, Panelo said. Last month, duterte lashed out at Canada, even threatening to declare war against the north American country if it would not take back its trash.
“Awayin natin ang Canada (Let’s start a fight with Canada). i will declare war against them. Kaya man natin ‘yan sila. isauli ko talaga ‘yan. ikarga mo ‘yan doon sa ano sa barko (We can take them down. I will really return [the trash]. Load it all on a ship), load it — the containers to a ship and advice Cana — and i will advise Canada that your garbage is on the way. Prepare a grand reception. eat it if you want to,” the president said. (Darryl John Esguerra/Inquirer. net)
Australian writer apologizes for insulting Filipino food by Jan
Milo Severo Philstar.com
An Australian writer based in Jakarta, indonesia drew flak online from Filipinos after she said that Filipino food is “bland” and “worst” in southeast Asia. Feminist activist Kate Walton commented: “Filipino food is definitely worst in the region” on Cornell University professor tom Pepinsky’s tweet about the ranking of southeast Asian food. tom also ranked the Philippines in the bottom of his list, while Vietnamese, Laos, Malaysian and singaporean top the list. “Lol Filipino twitter saw my reply to @tomPepinsky about Filipino food and now they’re mad. sorry Filipino food is bland. i’ll choose spicy food over it any day,” Kate tweeted after Filipinos bashed her. though Kate apologized for her “wrong choice of words” in
Photo screengrabbed from Twitter.com
her tweet, she said she will not delete her tweet. “dear Filipinos: i apologise for offending you. My comment was about food preferences and poorly-phrased. What i meant was that Filipino food is my least favourite in the region. i apologise for my bad wording,” Kate
said. “i’m not going to delete the main tweets because then i’ll be accused of hiding. i won’t be engaging any more on this topic, though. i’ve apologised and there’s not much else i can do. Cheers,” she added in another tweet. n
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Filipino ‘Alaskeros’ featured in Hong Kong
ka dates back to 1788, according to local media, when crew from merchant ships came to trade furs with the natives. Eventually, whaling ships brought still more Philippine crew. Many settled and married women of the Aleut, Eskimo and Tlingit tribes,� the article said. “In the early 1900s, almost 1,000 Filipinos — mostly single men — came to work in Alaska’s commercial fishing industry, a sector that remains the state’s largest private-sector employer. They toiled in fish canneries, where they were often the lowest-paid workers and endured impoverished conditions,� it added. Gabriel Garcia, Filipino-American associate professor of public health at the University of Alaska Anchorage, explained that Filipinos came to Alaska to seek opportunity for a better life. He stressed that Filipinos then fought racism in Alaska when they “were not allowed to interact with whites – especially white Photo courtesy of Kababayan Weekly women.� n
immigrant minority in Alaska. “They have settled in the state Philstar.com since the late 1700s, many interHONG KONG-based South marrying with local Native AlasChina Morning Post has featured kans, creating dishes such as beaFilipinos living in Alaska called ver adobo and salmon lumpia,� “Alaskeros.� part of the article read. The article said that the coldest According to the article, FiliU.S. state has been home to Filipi- pinos arrived in Alaska on 1788 nos for more than 200 years and from merchant ships that came to currently, there are about 30,000 trade furs. Filipinos who make up the largest “The arrival of Filipinos to Alasby Jan
Milo Severo
Filipinos in Alaska also known as “Alaskeros.�
Unicef sounds alarm on decline of PH’s measles immunization coverage by Katrina
Hallare Inquirer.net
THE United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) has expressed alarm over the decline of the country’s measles immunization coverage. In a statement to celebrate World Immunization Week, Unicef said the Philippines’ measles immunization coverage declined “in an alarming rate,� with a record of less than 70 percent, which is far below the required 95 percent. The coverage was 88 percent in 2013 and 73 percent in 2017, Unicef added. The UN agency said the decline in the immunization coverage leaves 2.9 million Filipino children vulnerable to diseases such as measles, rubella, and polio. “Public hesitancy, vaccine stock-outs, the lack of aptly trained health workers and accessibility of hard-to-reach areas put many children susceptible to diseases,� the statement read. “This leads to more outbreaks and put more children at risk of getting sick from life-threatening diseases.� “Every child has the right to the best possible health care and ac-
A health worker administers vaccines as part of the Department of Health-organized immunization program to celebrate the World Immunization Week 2019 at Ama Dome, Baseco compound in Tondo, Manila. Celebrated every last week of April, World Immunization Week aims to promote the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against preventable diseases. PNA photo by Oliver Marquez
cess to disease protection through timely vaccination. Vaccines are the safest and most effective way of saving lives,� Unicef Representative Julia Rees said. While Unicef recognizes that Republic Act 10152 or the“Mandatory Infants and Children Health Immunization Act� makes immunization free at health centers and government hospitals for children up to five years old, the organization said that it “advocates that the unfin-
ished business of immunization is every child’s right and everyone’s business.� “Unicef has been relentless in saving children’s lives through immunization against preventable childhood diseases,� the statement read. “The UN Children’s agency has helped the Philippine government eradicate polio and maternal and neonatal tetanus, proving that vaccines work and are safe and effective.� n
10-M TREES CHALLENGE. Senate President Vicente Sotto III (2nd right) leads the tree planting ceremony during the launching of the Luntiang Pilipinas partylist’s “10 million trees challenge� at the Calamba City Hall on Monday, May 6. Also in photo are Kathryna, wife of re-electionist Senator Aquilino “Koko� Pimentel III, Sen. Juan Edgardo “Sonny� Angara, Maria Lourdes Binay, Camille Villar representing her mother Sen. Cynthia Villar, and Luntian nominee Michael Ubac. PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan
Comelec ready for May... PAGE 1 many people have been killed. But in recent days, election-related violence decreased,â€? he noted. PNP spokesman Col. Bernard Banac said they expect the peace and order situation in the run up to the polls would continue until Election Day. During a forum at the Comelec, he said: “The PNP along with the Armed Forces of the Philippines is on full alert. So we are not taking any chances.â€? “We assure the public that the PNP will remain apolitical and impartial as we are mandated to protect the will of the electorate toward honest, orderly and peaceful elections,â€? he added. As stated by the The Philippine Star, some 149,830 policemen and 98,000 soldiers will be working together to keep all polling places and other areas of concern safe before, during and even after election day on May 13. PNP chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde, for his part, assured the whole PNP is on full alert status. “We are already on full alert and as of this time, we have partial deployment in the different hubs,â€? he said after the send-off ceremony held in Camp Aguinaldo. The ceremonial deployment was spearheaded by the Comelec, represented by Commissioners Luie Tito Guia and Al ParreĂąo. It was participated by 809 personnel and 28 military
vehicles, 778 personnel and 23 police vehicles, and representatives from other stakeholders like DepEd and Department of Health (DOH). “The send-off ceremony is a fitting testimony of our firm aspiration for a peaceful and successful conduct of the national and local elections next week. This also signifies that we are all prepared and ready to be deployed in the different areas where our services and assistance are very much needed,� said AFP chief Gen. Benjamin General Madrigal. According to Albayalde, more than 36,000 polling centers nationwide will be guarded with at least two uniformed police officers especially in hotspots or critical areas in Mindanao where quick reaction teams will be on standby. “For polling centers we’ll be probably deploying around 100,000 of our personnel, that includes the police assistance desks,� Albayalde said. “As of this time, we see no threat whatsoever but of course we don’t want to put our guard down, and especially so in Mindanao,� he added. Albayalde allowed policemen to use their cellphones for workrelated matters such as sending updates on the status of the conduct of elections in their respective areas while they are on duty during election day. Other measures launched PNP also launched its National Election Monitoring Action Cen-
ter (NEMAC) on Tuesday. This will allow real-time monitoring of polling centers nationwide. Albayalde said about 60 police personnel will run the center, which will remain active a few days after the elections. “This will give us real-time situation on what is happening on the ground, as well as the delivery of VCMs to different polling centers,� he said. “If we want to know what’s the situation in polling centers, we will just click the specific polling center and then we will know who the person deployed in that center is,� he added. The NEMAC will also inform police officers whether voting had started or ended at polling centers and if ballot boxes have been delivered to proper offices. The Comelec, meanwhile, announced there are procedures in place should an earthquake happen, as well as whether a failure of elections should be declared in the affected area. “The policy is being studied now on whether or not to declare a failure of elections. Of course, what is a strong earthquake? We have a lot of common sense (to know this),� Jimenez said during a press briefing. “The safest bet here is to either suspend or declare failure of elections. That decision is still being made,� he added. Jimenez also said the Comelec is prepared to secure the VCMs and other election paraphernalia during an earthquake. n
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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • mAy 9-15, 2019
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Dateline PThehiliPPines ‘Estrada’ edge: May polls set stage for JV, Jinggoy clash
Palace vows to create more jobs through more foreign investments by Nestor
Corrales Inquirer.net
MANILA — The government assured the public its commitment to create more jobs by attracting more foreign investments in the Philippines, Malacaùang said on Wednesday, May 8. Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo issued the statement after the recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) showed a decline in joblessness rate in the Philippines in the first quarter of 2019.
“The Palace welcomes the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showing a continuous drop in adult joblessness at 19.7% in March 2019, from 21.1% in December 2018 and 22% in September 2018. The same polling firm indicates that the labor force grew to an estimated 47.6 million Filipinos,� Panelo said in a statement. The Palace official touted Republic Act No. 11261, or the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act signed by Duterte, “which aims
to expand accessibility of first time jobseekers to government services and ultimately, to employment.� “These, among others, show how the President considers labor as one of the engines that will propel further the country’s growth and development,� he said. “We remain committed in creating jobs by attracting more foreign investments and promoting good governance as we look forward to welcoming more Filipinos in the workforce,� he added. n
Olympic medalist Hidilyn Diaz shocked over inclusion in oust-Duterte matrix by Mark
GioNGCo Inquirer.net
MANILA—Filipino Olympian Hidilyn Diaz on Wednesday, May 8, was shocked over her inclusion in the matrices that illustrate a plot to oust President Rodrigo Duterte. The bemedalled weightlifter was among the latest names revealed by MalacaĂąang to be involved in the matrix. In a post on Twitter, Diaz laughed off her alleged participation in the ouster plot. “Kaya nga! Dami ko pang goals sa life and Pinas para sumali sa ganyan bagay. Nashock lang ako nalink ako sa ganyan (I have other goals in life and for the Philippines to join such things. I’m shocked that I’m linked to that),â€? said Diaz in a reply to one of her followers who questioned her inclusion in the matrix. The 28-year-old Diaz, who ended the country’s medal drought
Diaz, who is also a member of the Philippine Air Force, stressed her focus is solely on her weightlifting career which is on the rise. “Gusto ko lang pong sabihin nasa rank 5 po ako for First 6 months ng Olympic Qualifying, ipagdasal niyo na sana makapagrank 1-5 ako sa next olympic qualifying. Marami pa po akong lalaruin kailangan ko magfocus, maniwala kay God na eto ang dream niya para sakin (I just want to say that I’m in rank 5 for the first 6 months of the Olympic qualifying, please pray that I can rank 1-5 for the next Olympic qualifying. I still have a lot to do so I need to focus and believe for that this is Hidilyn Diaz Inquirer.net photo his dream for me).� in the Olympics after winning Diaz wasn’t the only sports silver in weightlifting in the 2016 personality dragged into the diaSummer Games in Rio de Janeiro, gram with volleyball star turned Brazil, currently has a lot on her TV personality Gretchen Ho also plate with the coming Southeast included. Asian Games in November and Ho also denied her involvement the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. in the matrices. n
Party-list lawmaker sounds alarm on OFWs with HIV by Jess
Diaz Philstar.com
MANILA — The lone representative of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Congress called the government’s attention to the rising number of OFWs infected with the deadly human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). A total of 88 OFWs were newly diagnosed as HIV-positive in February, up 22 percent from 72 in the same month in 2018, Rep. John Bertiz of party-list group ACTS-OFW said. He said the February cases brought to 6,433 the cumulative number of OFWs found with HIV “since the government began passive surveillance of the virus in 1984.� Of the 6,433 OFWs, 5,553 or 86 percent were male, with the median age of 32 years, and 880 were female with an average rage
of 34 years, he said. Bertiz added that of the male victims, 2,328 were found infected via sexual contact with men, while 1,674 had sex with both males and females. HIV causes AIDS, or acquired immune deficiency syndrome, which destroys the human body’s natural ability to fight off all kinds of infection, he said. Though the condition still does not have any known cure, antiretroviral therapy has been known to slow down the virus, he said. Bertiz urged the Department of Labor and Employment to deliver “highly improved support� to the growing number of OFWs living with HIV, as mandated by the new AIDS Prevention and Control Law that took effect earlier this year. He said the law “obligates the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, together with other agencies, to develop a program
to provide stigma-free comprehensive reintegration, care and support for OFWs with HIV.� “Under the law, economic, social and medical support is to be extended to all OFWs, regardless of employment status and stage in the migration process,� he said. It also requires all overseasbound Filipino workers as well as Philippine government staff for foreign posting to undergo a seminar on the causes, manner of prevention and impact of HIV and AIDS, prior to certification for deployment or assignment, Bertiz said. “The preventive education seminar is to be provided for free and at no cost to OFWs or to the staff concerned,� he added. He also urged health and labor officials to monitor OFWs with HIV who are returning home to their families so they would not spread the virus. n
Court allows De Lima to vote in 2019 midterm polls by kristiNe Joy
Philstar.com
PataG
MANILA — The Muntinlupa court handling the government’s drug case against Sen. Leila de Lima has allowed her to vote in the 2019 midterm elections. Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Branch 205 allowed De Lima to exercise her right to vote on Monday, May 6, granted that she would do so from noon to 2:00 in the afternoon—including travel time—and that she would not give interviews to the media before and after she casts her vote. Presiding Judge Liezel Aquiatan also ordered that De Lima would bear all expenses for her transport from the Philippine National Police Custodial Center in Camp Crame to her polling precinct at Santa Rita School, ParaĂąaque City. “Security procedures must be observed to ensure a safe and secured voting process for her by coordinating with the police and
military in the area where she will cast her vote,� the two-page order dated April 30 read. De Lima filed her motion before the court after the Commission on Elections rejected her request to establishing a special polling place in her detention. The poll body instead suggested that De Lima still exercise her right to vote through the “escorted detainee voting system,� by seeking the courts. The prosecution did not oppose De Lima’s plea, but submitted conditions such as limiting the voting time to two to three hours, including travel time, and restrict media interviews. The court granted De Lima’s motion stressing that “it is the policy of the State to ensure that all qualified voters, including persons deprived of liberty found in jails, prisons and other detention facilities are provided with access to exercise their right to suffrage.� Muntinlupa RTC Branch 256,
by iaN
NiColas CiGaral Philstar.com
MANILA — Re-electionist Sen. JV Ejercito, who touts his “clean track record,� will go against his half-brother Jinggoy Estrada, who is moving to repair a political career beset by graft and plunder charges. As the May elections drew near, politics brought their sibling rivalry to the fore once again, and both plan to capitalize on the power of the “Estrada� brand to win a seat in the Senate. While the two landed on pollster Pulse Asia’s latest list of 14 candidates who have the potential to win in the Senate race, Jinggoy got a higher statistical ranking of 10th-14th place. JV settled on the edge of the winner’s circle, with a statistical ranking of 10th-16th place. In terms of voters’ awareness, Jinggoy got a slightly higher score of 99% than his brother’s 98%. JV previously acknowledged that Jinggoy enjoys the edge of using “Estrada� — the hugely popular name of a political dynasty in San Juan City where their father, disgraced former president and reelectionist Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada, was mayor five decades ago. The senior Estrada was born Jose Marcelo Ejercito Sr., but adopted the name “Joseph ‘Erap’ Estrada� as an actor and later as a politician. “It’s a brand name,� said JV, whose legal name is Jose Victor Gomez Ejercito. But this time, JV made sure that voters would know he, too, is an Estrada when he filed his certificate of candidacy last year. He will use the name “Ejercito Estrada JV (NPC)� on the ballot and “JV Estrada� as a campaign nickname. During the 2013 senatorial race, JV ran under the United Nationalist Alliance and also used “Estrada� after the name change boosted his ranking in pre-election surveys. “The Estrada surname, an established political brand, is important for JV and Jinggoy for the purpose of gaining votes through name recall and association with their popular father,� Dennis Coronacion, political science professor at the University of Santo Tomas, said in an interview.
JV previously admitted he has problems with name recall and acknowledged that Jinggoy enjoys the edge of using “Estrada� — the hugely popular name of a political dynasty in San Juan City where their father, former president and reelectionist Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada, was mayor five decades ago. Philstar.com photo by Michael Varcas
Twelve of the 24 Senate seats, as well as all lower house seats and all elected posts of local government units are up for grabs on May 13. ‘The Good One’ vs ‘Ang Tunay na Estrada’ JV is the son of the Estrada patriarch with San Juan Mayor Guia Gomez. Jinggoy, on the other hand, is the former president’s son with ex-Sen. Loi Ejercito. Jinggoy was an action star before he first ran and won as mayor of San Juan City. He followed the footsteps of his father who started his career in show business and even used his dad’s “Estrada� monicker. Jinggoy was detained for three years over his alleged involvement in the multimillion-peso Priority Development Assistance Fund scam, also called the pork barrel scam. He is out on bail. In 2014, JV signed a Senate committee report against his halfbrother and former Sens. Juan Ponce Enrile and Bong Revilla over the alleged misuse of congressional funds. The half-brothers have been at odds both within the family and in the political arena, and their feud seems to reflect in their respective campaign ads for the midterm elections. JV calls himself “the good one� in his 30-second ad campaign, which focuses on his “notable� bills, particularly measures creating the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and a Universal Health Care system. Meanwhile, the Estrada patriarch appeared at the end of
Jinggoy’s ad campaign and endorsed his son. “Estradang tunay (a true Estrada),� the 82-year-old politician said. JV earlier hoped that only one of them would gun for a Senate seat this year. Jinggoy, however, said their father has no problem with having both sons running for public office. ‘Confusion’ Ahead of the COC filing for this year’s poll, the Commission on Elections in October last year warned JV that while he could use “Estrada� in his reelection bid, he could find himself facing a petition to declare him as a nuisance candidate. “He can give his name as an alias, as a nickname, but that does not stop anyone from filing a case against him,� Comelec spokesman James Jimenez previously said. For UST’s Coronacion, JV might have made a bad decision in choosing to use the popular surname of his father to run in an election where he would clash with another Estrada heir whose name is tainted with allegations of corruption. “Actually, there might be a confusion among the voters if both of them would use the Estrada surname since they wouldn’t be able to distinguish who between the two Estradas was involved in plunder,� Coronacion said. “Given this situation, I think it would work out well for JV to stick with his decision of not using the Estrada surname to avoid the likelihood of being mistaken by the voters as the Estrada who was accused of committing plunder,� he added. n
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Sen. Leila de Lima
Philstar.com photo
where De Lima is also facing a charge, earlier granted her furlough and allowed her to vote. De Lima has been detained at the PNP headquarters for more than two years over the government’s case of conspiracy to commit drug trading against her. The senator has denied all accusations. n
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MAY 9-15, 2019 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL
OPINION
A writ for the marine environment
FEATURES
THE Supreme Court has had a mixed record in its orders related to protecting the environment. In April 2012, it issued a writ of kalikasan, stopping a multibillion-peso project to reclaim Manila Bay. The area covered by the special order has since been declared as a protected wetland — the last of its kind in Metro Manila. It is now a thriving marine ecopark and bird sanctuary along the Las Piñas-Parañaque coastline. On the other hand, it took a decade before the government enforced a Supreme Court order for several agencies to clean up Manila Bay. This could be because the SC order was seen as an encroachment upon the powers and functions of the executive agencies led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority. Following the cleanup of Boracay, however, President Duterte turned his attention to Manila Bay and ordered the agencies to finally implement the SC order, in line with his policy of eliminating marine pollution. The cleanup is a work in progress. Now the SC has issued another writ, directing the government to protect the marine environment in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal, Panganiban (Mischief) Reef off Palawan and Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal off Zambales in the West Philippine Sea. Will the national government comply with the SC order this time? The three areas happen to be covered by the
petition filed by the Philippine government before the United Nationsbacked Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, which sought a definition of the country’s maritime entitlements in the South China Sea. China had ignored the deliberations of the arbitral court. In 2016, the court awarded the Philippines sovereign rights over Panganiban, Ayungin and Recto (Reed) Bank. The ruling declared Panatag a common fishing area over which no country has controlling rights. It also invalidated Beijing’s nine-dash-line claim over nearly the entire South China Sea. The latest SC order was issued in response to a petition filed by fisherfolk from Palawan and Zambales, amid reports that groups of Chinese believed to be maritime militias were harvesting endangered giant clams in Panatag. The SC order gives the national government a legal basis to send teams to protect the marine environment in the three areas. With the goodwill generated by President Duterte
Editorial
The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS THE U.S. CONSTITUTION mandates that there are three coequal branches of government — the executive, legislature and the judiciary — all tasked to provide checks and balance on each other to make sure that not one person, nor institution will abuse its power and put democracy at risk. It is the same spirit of the law that has kept the norms and practices that since Watergate have emerged within the Executive branch with Richard Nixon abusing the power and public trust vested in his position as president. The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which operates under the DOJ, is supposed to be the top law enforcement agency of the government tasked to uphold the law and enforce justice for ALL Americans, and not just to a privileged powerful few, including the President of the United States of America. This spirit of the law is especially true if the person being investigated for alleged abuse of power, corrupt intent in defiance of the rule of law is the president of the United States, who has sworn to protect and defend the Constitution and the laws of the nation. This is the same spirit of the law that guides the Senate in requiring judicial independence from
Commentary
ANTONIO P. CONTRERAS FOR many, culture is a peripheral issue in conflict and diplomacy. When one speaks of cultural diplomacy, the image that quickly comes to mind is tourism and international relations. In fact, cultural diplomacy is broadly defined in the context of soft power, where a government uses culture to entice nationals from other countries to have a positive view of its people, culture and policies. This is why cultural diplomacy is predominantly focused on image-building, and on social marketing. It actively sells images and representations about a country’s people and scenes, and the overall ambience of a place that is worthy of being trusted. Broadly speaking, selling sights, sounds and tastes to a foreign audience becomes a venue for confidence-building. However, culture is not like instant noodles that you simply douse with boiling water for it to
in his policy toward Beijing, compliance with the SC order should not prove to be daunting even in Panganiban Reef, where the Chinese have built an artificial island housing a multistory structure that
looks like a military garrison. Implementing the SC writ is an opportunity to test whether the Philippine government’s rapprochement with China is bearing fruit. (Philstar.com)
Defending Trump over the Constitution: Attorney General William Barr and all of Trump’s enablers have to resign or be voted out! appointees of the president for Supreme Court Justice and other justices in the judiciary. It is also the same spirit of the law that requires from presidential appointees — especially the attorney general who heads the DOJ and the FBI director — independence from the president and from other political and personal interests in making decisions to uphold and execute the laws of the United States. President Donald Trump’s appointee to head the DOJ — Attorney General (AG) William Barr — has just proven through his words, decisions and actions, that he is serving and protecting the man who appointed him to power and not the American people. This negates what he said during his confirmation hearing before the Senate last January that serving in his post as AG “was not the same” as representing and protecting President Trump, and even pledged to make law enforcement decisions based only on facts and the law. Why did Trump appoint Barr to be AG? Because this is what he expects from his nominees — loyalty to him more than anything else. This was why the president was so mad at former AG Jess Sessions when he recused himself from overseeing the Russia investigation out of delicadeza. Trump even asked Sessions to reverse his recusal. Trump also
said had he known that Sessions would recuse himself, he should have not appointed him as AG. This turn of events lead to Deputy AG Rod Rosenstein overseeing the Russia probe, who then appointed Special Counsel Robert Mueller to head the probe in the alleged conspiracy between the Trump Campaign and Russia when Trump fired FBI James Comey with Russia in his mind, and because Comey would not give him the loyalty he was demanding from him. Trump then appointed Matt Whitaker to be acting AG, bypassing seniority ranks within the DOJ, all because of Whittaker’s public statements that a sitting president should not be indicted. Whittaker became a ‘good soldier’ for Trump and reported to him all he knew about the Russia probe. Then came Bill Barr, whom Trump appointed because of his public statements that the President could and should not be indicted for Obstruction of Justice. Trump was very happy about Barr and even said publicly that if he appointed Barr from the beginning, he would have not had to deal with the Russia “witch hunt.” Now Barr is really living up to Trump’s expectations and has been parroting Trump’s narrative in defending the man who appointed him instead of the rule of law and the Constitution, es-
pecially when he “exonerated” Trump in his summary of the much anticipated Mueller report. Barr conveniently edited out in his summary the reason why Mueller could not charge Mueller of obstruction of justice was because of a longstanding DOJ policy of not indicting a sitting president. Mueller, instead, discussed in detail 10 ways by which Trump may have obstructed justice for Congress to investigate further on within their mandate, and memorializing his findings so that Trump may be indicted when he leaves the highest office. Don’t take my word for it. Ask the people who did the investigation and made the report. Ask the people knowledgable of prosecution. Ask the people who take Barr’s advice as AG. DIDN’T Special Counsel Robert Mueller write a letter to Barr in late March complaining that a four-page memo to Congress describing the principal conclusions of the investigation into President Trump “did not fully capture the context, nature, and substance” of the Mueller investigation and his 448-page very detailed report with accompanying evidence? As the Washington Post reported, “at the time Mueller’s letter was sent to Barr on March 27, Barr had days prior announced that Mueller did not find a conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russian of-
ficials seeking to interfere in the 2016 presidential election. In his memo to Congress, Barr also said that Mueller had not reached a conclusion about whether Trump had tried to obstruct justice, but that Barr reviewed the evidence [which turned during his testimony in the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing that Barr did NOT even review the evidence] and found it insufficient to support such a charge.” “The summary letter the Department sent to Congress and released to the public late in the afternoon of March 24 did not fully capture the context, nature, and substance of this office’s work and conclusions,” Mueller wrote in his letter. “There is now public confusion about critical aspects of the results of our investigation. This threatens to undermine a central purpose for which the Department appointed the Special Counsel: to assure full public confidence in the outcome of the investigations.” DIDN’T more than 450 former federal prosecutors who worked in Republican and Democratic administrations have signed on to a statement asserting special counsel Robert S. Mueller III’s findings would have produced obstruction charges against President Trump — if not for the office he held as President of the United States? According to the Post, the
statement — signed by myriad former career government employees as well as high-profile political appointees — offers a rebuttal to Attorney General William P. Barr’s determination that the evidence Mueller uncovered was “not sufficient” to establish that Trump committed a crime. DIDN’T Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin tell House Democrats he will not turn over Trump’s tax returns despite their legal request, because AG Barr told him not to? What about Trump’s objection to Mueller testifying before Congress? Or Trump’s objection to former White Counsel Dan McGahn who testified before Mueller that Trump asked him to fire Mueller and to lie testifying before? Or Trump’s brazen move to order his staff and officials to ignore Congress’ subpoenas? Barr sure knows this is against the principle of checks and balances mandated by the Constitution. WILLIAM BARR NEEDS TO RESIGN. And the American people need to vote out of office Trump’s enablers in Congress. And must I add, the president himself has to go? *** 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
Culture, conflict, diplomacy and the West Philippine Sea
be cooked. It is a complex array of symbols, images, representations and meaning systems that are built over long periods of time. And the way citizens of a country would image other countries is largely a function of history and of how that other country has presented itself in their worldviews and imaginations. It is in this context that one needs to understand the way ordinary people look at the issue of the West Philippine Sea in the context of how the ordinary Filipino looks at China and the United States. Conversely, it is important to understand how the Philippines is likewise perceived by the ordinary citizens of these countries. In an SWS survey released in March, the United States was the most trusted country by Filipinos with a net trust rating of +60. Other countries that received positive net trust ratings were Japan with a +34 and Australia with a +31. On the other hand, China obtained a net trust rating of -7 percent, which is actually an improvement from its -16 percent rating in September of last year. It
should be pointed out that China obtained a positive net trust rating only in 9 out of the 45 times similar surveys were taken since 1994. The worst rating was a -46 percent obtained in September of 2015. It is easy to understand how the ordinary Filipino would have a positive attitude towards the United States. This would be deeply rooted on the colonial mental constructs which ordinary Pinoys would hold towards anything American, from its popular culture to its government policies. What is interesting, however, is the fact that despite the absence of any adverse colonial encounter with China as an occupying force, and while Chinese influences are as solidly embedded in the habitus and cultural landscapes of Filipinos, from food to popular culture, China as a country remains not worthy of trust by ordinary Filipinos, even perhaps by those that bear Chinese surnames or have Chinese ancestry. In the absence of a systematic scientific study of this phenomenon, one can only offer several educated guesses to
explain this cognitive dissonance. It is certainly perplexing that tens of thousands of Filipinos died at the hands of American and Japanese occupying forces in separate periods in our history, and none did so in a Chinese invasion, and yet decades after, Filipinos trust the U.S. and Japan more than China. Historically, one can possibly attribute this mistrust to how China has been associated with communism, and that the red scare became so deeply embedded in the collective psyche of the Filipino people. It is ironic that the anti-communist attitude that became the foundation of an antiChina sentiment festers among ordinary people, many of whom are also pro-Duterte supporters. Meanwhile, the left-leaning opposition groups, most of whom adhere to Maoist doctrines, have also lately expressed an anti-China stance, thereby diminishing the potency for sustaining the use of ideology as a basis for explaining the culture of mistrust prevailing among ordinary Filipinos. If at all, China is no longer imaged, at
least by the intellectual elites and activists, as a communist country, but simply as an authoritarian, capitalist superpower. However, the stereotype that it is still governed by the kind of communism that scared Filipinos during the Cold War remains strong among ordinary Filipinos. Foreign development assistance has become the means by which former occupying forces like the U.S. and Japan have repaid their historical debts to the country, through massive inflows of loans and grants. China has embarked on this too, with its own Belt and Road Initiative. However, what is interesting is that in an age where the image of a colonial power invading other countries has become a thing of the past, China is now painted by its critics — and with good reason citing the case of Sri Lanka — as one that is showing an aggressive stance in using debt trap diplomacy to acquire territory from other countries. It has been propagated in popular Chinese media that the Philippines is the one seen as stealing
land from China. For many ordinary Chinese nationals, it would not be farfetched to assume that they regard the Philippines is a mere province of China. On the other hand, the popular cultural representation of China among ordinary Filipinos is seen no longer in pancit or siopao, or Chow King, or in Ongpin, or in the rich Taipans, but as an invading force now actually swarming the seas around Pag-Asa, or as illegal Chinese workers now crowding out not only work opportunities but also the real estate space available for Filipinos. Filipinos trust the U.S. and Japan, even if they invaded us, simply because they are no longer invading us now. In fact, we are the ones physically migrating into their territories. If there is any future in building confidence between the Philippines and China, then it must seriously consider affecting cultural transformations in the manner each country is imaged in the ordinary and everyday lives of people in the other country. (ManilaTimes.net)
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.
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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • mAy 9-15, 2019
Incumbent Metro Manila officials lead survey by JanviC
Mateo Philstar.com
MANILA — Voters appear to prefer re-electionists or incumbent mayors in most cities in Metro Manila, according to a recent survey conducted by a private group called RP-Mission and Development Foundation Inc. The survey, conducted from April 27 to May 1, showed some candidates pulling away from their opponents days before the midterm polls. In Quezon City, 60 percent of the respondents said they would vote for Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, who solidified her lead ELECTION SECURITY. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Benjamin Madrigal Jr. (left) and Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Oscar Albayalde jointly sign the Joint Letter Directive (JLD) 01-2019 during the National Joint Security Coordinating against Rep. Vincent Crisologo Center meeting at the Tejeros Hall of the AFP Commissioned Officers Club, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. The JLD, with the concurrence with 32 percent and former lawof Commission on Elections Chairman Sheriff Abas, stipulates the delegation of specific tasks and other coordinating instructions for the maker Ismael Mathay III with four percent in the mayoralty units and troops of the AFP and PNP to ensure peaceful, orderly, and secure national and local elections this coming May 13, 2019. Photo by SN1 Donald H Viluan PN / PAOAFP race. Re-electionist Makati Mayor Mar-len Abigail Binay obtained 64 percent, almost double the 34 percent obtained by her brother, former mayor Junjun Binay. by Catherine Modesto In Pasig, re-electionist MayManilaTimes.net
Be a state witness, Napeñas urged on SAF 44 case RELATIVES of some of the police commandos killed in Mamasapano, Maguindanao four years ago urged Getulio Napeñas, former commander of the Special Action Force (SAF), to be a state witness in the case filed against him, former president Benigno Aquino III and former police chief Alan Purisima. “Sir, please be a hero like your men. Do not be a coward. Have courage. Your men are to be pitied. You know what they did to them. My son’s body was chopped up. Please, have pity on us, mothers. We feel like the SAF 44 had been abandoned,” Telly Sumbilla, mother of Police Officer(PO) 3 John Lloyd Sumbilla, said. Sumbilla was among the 44 SAF troopers who died on Jan. 25, 2015 in Tukanalipao, Mamasapano during a police operation aimed to capture Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli Abdhir, alias Marwan. Marwan died in the operation along with 18 members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and five civilians. In July 2017, the Office of the Ombudsman found probable cause to charge Aquino, Purisima and Napeñas with graft and usurpation of authority under Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code. A police investigation of the Mamasapano clash showed that
or Roberto “Bobby” Eusebio took the lead with 66 percent, against the 33 percent obtained by councilor Vico Sotto. Also leading were re-electionist mayors Rex Gatchalian of Valenzuela (95 percent), Edwin Olivarez of Parañaque (62 percent), Lenlen Oreta of Malabon (65 percent), Carmelita Abalos of Mandaluyong (97 percent), Oscar Malapitan of Caloocan (93 percent), Jaime Fresnedi of Muntinlupa (57 percent), Imelda Aguilar of Las Piñas (94 percent), Marcelino Teodoro of Marikina (93 percent) and Miguel Ponce III of Pateros (73 percent). The case is different in Manila, where former president and re-electionist Mayor Joseph Estrada is trailing behind former vice mayor Isko Moreno. Moreno obtained 50 percent, followed by Estrada with 33 percent and former mayor Alfredo Lim with 15 percent. In San Juan where the top post is to be vacated by Mayor Guia Gomez, former vice mayor Francis Zamora is slightly ahead
with 53 percent against incumbent Vice Mayor Janella Estrada with 47 percent. In Taguig, Lino Cayetano – a former lawmaker and brotherin-law of outgoing Mayor Lani Cayetano – is leading with 67 percent against Rep. Arnel Cerafica with 30 percent. Incumbent lawmakers who are seeking to replace relatives as mayors also lead in the survey. Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco, who is running for the seat to be vacated by his brother threeterm Mayor John Rey Tiangco, is leading with 76 percent against councilor Dan Israel Ang with 20 percent. Pasay Rep. Imelda Calixto Rubiano, who is also running to replace her brother Mayor Antonino Calixto, is leading with 74 percent against Chet Cuneta, son of former mayor Pablo Cuneta, with 15 percent. The non-commissioned survey had 8,000 registered voters in Metro Manila as respondents. n
Go again denies drug allegations by deMpsey
reyes ManilaTimes.net
The SAF 44 painting that Aquino didn’t want to see. A widow of one of them, Roselle Nacino, with their baby in her arms, looks pensively at the image of her husband, Nicky, in sniper camouflage. (The genius of this piece is the haunting beauty with which each of the 44 troopers was portrayed exactly as they looked in real life on to the canvas based only on their file photographs). ManilaTimes.net photo
Sabihin mo po ang buong katotohanan. Wala pa rin po kaming nakakamit na hustisya (We need you. Please tell the whole truth. We have not gotten justice),” Nacino added. “Magsalita ka na (Please speak up), you are our only hope,” said Julie Danao, mother of PO2 Walner Danao. The families of some of the commandos, with the help of the Volunteer Against Crime and Corruption filed 44 counts of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide before the Supreme Court, citing the respondents’ “inexcusable lack of precaution.” The complaint was accepted by the high court’s First Division on Feb. 26, 2019. n
the operation tagged “Oplan Exodus” was poorly planned. Felicitas Nacino, mother of another SAF 44 member, PO2 Nicky Nacino Jr., believes that Napeñas could help them get the justice they deserve. “Unang una palang po, tinanong kita bakit di ka nagsalita, ilang hearing na po ang nangyari sa atin sa Senado. Sagot mo po sa akin, ‘Nanay sabi po nila, ‘wag na akong magsalita (I asked you why you did not say anything during the Senate hearings that we attended. And your response was, ‘Mother, they told me to stop talking),” Nacino said. She urged Napeñas to speak out and tell the truth. “Kailangan po namin ikaw.
LUNGSOD NG LAS VEGAS MUNISIPAL NA PANGKALAHATANG HALALAN
FORMER special assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go again denied allegations of ties to illegal drug syndicates after a man claiming to have personal knowledge of payoffs surfaced on Monday, May 6. Peter Joemel Advincula, who revealed himself as the hooded “Bikoy” in a series of online videos accusing Go and members of President Rodrigo Duterte’s family of pocketing drug money, claimed he wanted to testify and sought help from a lawyers’ group. Go, who is seeking a Senate seat, said Advincula — who had accused him and former Davao City vice mayor Paolo “Pulong” Duterte of having tattoos signifying syndicate membership — shouldn’t have gone to the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, but instead had himself admitted to a mental facility. “For me, he should have gone to a mental hospital. He should go there first,” the Senate aspirant said in a statement. “May sinabi siya noon na kapag ipinakita ko ang aking likod ay titigil na siya. Hinubad ko na at ipinakita ang aking
Christopher Lawrence ‘Bong’ Go bares his back for the second time to prove that he has no tattoo as claimed by “Bikoy.” ManilaTimes.net photo
likod, wala kayong nakitang tattoo (He previously said he would stop if I showed my back. I already showed my back and you did not see a tattoo),” Go added. The “Ang Totoong Narcolist” videos sought to portray Duterte’s war against drugs as a sham, but Go said it was “black propaganda.” “Gaya ng ipinangako namin ni
Pangulong Duterte, ipagpapatuloy namin ang kampanya laban sa iligal na droga, korapsyon at kriminalidad (Like what President Duterte and I promised, we will continue the war against illegal drugs, corruption and criminality),” he added. “We are being painted black here… demolition jobs are common during the election season,” Go said. n
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ANG ABISO NA ITO AY NAGBIBIGAY NANG KAALAMAN NA Ang lungsod ng Las Vegas Munisipal na Pangkalahatang Halalan ay gaganapin sa Martes, Ika-11 ng Hunyo, 2019 sa mga sumusunod na tanggapan:
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KONSEHO NG LUNGSOD PUROK 1
KONSEHO NG LUNGSOD PUROK 3
Brian Knudsen
Melissa Clary
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Robin Munier
Olivia Diaz
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AT ANG ABISO NA ITO AY NAGBIBIGAY DIN NANG KAALAMAN na ang Lungsod ng Las Vegas na Espesyal na Halalan ay gaganapin at kasama sa Pangkalahatang Halalan sa Martes, Ika-11 ng Hunyo, 2019 para sa sumusunod na tanggapan : KONSEHO NG LUNGSOD PUROK 2 Patsy Brown
Richard Plaster
Bruce Feher
Victoria Seaman
Hilarie Grey
Michael “Mikey” Tomko
Derrick S. Penney
Valerie Weber
KOREO/MANLILIBAN NA BALOTANG KAHILINGAN NA MGA TARHETA ay maaaring makuha sa Lalawigan ng Clark /Kagawaran ng Halalan, online sa sumusunod na website www.clarkcountyNV.gov/vote/TAG Lahat ng mga kahilingan para sa koreo/manliliban na balota para sa Pangunahing Halalan ay dapat matanggap sa Lalawigan ng Clark Kagawaran ng Halalan, 965 Trade Drive, Ste. A, N. Las Vegas, Nevada 89303, sa 5:00 n.h. sa Martes, Ika-4 ng Hunyo, 2019. SA KARAGDAGAN, ANG PANGKALAHATAN AT ESPESYAL NA HALALAN na naka takda sa Martes, Ika- 11 ng Hunyo , 2019 ay gaganapin sa pamamaraan na ibinigay sa pamamagitan ng batas sa halalan ng Estado ng Nevada at ang Lungsod ng Las Vegas. Mga Sentro nang Botohan ay magbubukas sa 7 n.u. hanggang 7 n.g. sa mga sumusunod na lugar: Albertsons – 1650 North Buffalo Drive Bonanza High School – 6665 Del Rey Avenue Las Vegas City Hall – 495 South Main Street Doolittle Community Center – 1950 J Street East Las Vegas Community Center – 250 North Eastern Avenue Meadows Mall – 4300 Meadows Lane Sahara West Library – 9600 West Sahara Avenue Veterans Memorial – 101 North Pavilion Center Drive William K. Moore Elementary – 491 North Lamb Boulevard Kung ikaw ay nakarehistro upang bumoto sa loob ng hagganan ng lungsod ng Boulder City, Las Vegas, o North Las Vegas, ikaw ay maaaring bumoto bago sa Araw ng Halalan sa kahit na saa’ng lugar ng maagang botohan na iyong napili. Hindi ka na kinakailanga’ng magpunta sa lugar na sinasakupan ng iyong lungsod. Sa halip, maaari ka nang pumili ng lugar na pinaka malapit sa iyo. Upang hanapin ang pinaka malapit na lugar para sa iyo sa araw ng maagang pagboto, maaaring pumunta sa www.ClarkCountyNV.gov/vote/TAG para sa isang interaktibong pakikipagugnayan, na gumagana sa pamamagitan ng pag gamit ng mobile na kasangkapan upang makita ang mga mapa ng mga Sentro nang Botohan.
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may 9-15, 2019 • LaS VEGaS aSIaN JOURNaL
NOTICE OF MUNICIPAL GENERAL ELECTION CITY OF BOULDER CITY, STATE OF NEVADA ON TUESDAY, June 11, 2019
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ARGUMENT FOR PASSAGE
If you had a chance to refinance your mortgage and save thousands of dollars in interest, you would do it in a heartbeat. Approving this ballot question will allow the City to do the same thing, except Boulder City NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Municipal General Election will be held on Tuesday, residents could save millions of dollars, not thousands. That’s why the only logical vote on this measure June 11, 2019, at which election there will be submitted to the duly qualified electors, is “yes.” properly registered of Boulder City, the following candidates for the office of: Nearly a decade ago, Boulder City residents passed a ballot question requiring voter approval before the City could incur debts of more than $1 million. It was a step taken consistent with residents’ desire Mayor: to actively participate in managing their community. However, in this case, there were unintended consequences that are costly to residents. Bond interest rates go up and down, and borrowing terms Kiernan McManus change. Based upon their analysis of the 2010 code, the City’s bond attorneys have determined that debt Rod Woodbury refinancing is legally viewed the same as new borrowing, even though refinancing at a lower interest rate doesn’t add to the debt but actually reduces it. For that reason, the City needs voters to exempt debt Council member: reduction activities like bond refinancing from the code. James Howard Adams In the past, opponents of this common-sense measure proposed just asking a different attorney and Claudia M. Bridges hoping for a different answer; that’s an idea that won’t fix anything. The same holds true for opponents’ Peggy Leavitt suggestion that the City create a ballot question every single time it wants to refinance a bond. Financial Rich Shuman markets move too quickly, and cost-saving opportunities evaporate faster than a drop of water on the NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that at said Municipal General Election, there will also be submitted to duly hood of a hot car. The only solution to this serious, costly problem is to clarify the law. qualified electors, properly registered of Boulder City, four ballot questions as follows: To be absolutely clear, voting “yes” on this measure will not erode residents’ ability to limit new spending, but rather could save Boulder City residents millions of dollars over the life of these bonds. With significant BALLOT QUESTION NUM. 1 investments by the City in new electrical, water and sewer infrastructure during the past decade, voters Shall the City of Boulder City expend funds from the Capital Improvement Fund, as they become available, can’t afford to pay banks millions of dollars in extra interest because of unclear language in municipal not to exceed Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000) towards the design and construction of a new aquatics code. Vote “yes” to save money. facility in order to reduce the bond obligation? Submitted by the Ballot Question Committee as provided for in NRS 295.217 Yes . . . . . . . . . . [ ] REBUTTAL TO ARGUMENT FOR PASSAGE No . . . . . . . . . . [ ] EXPLANATION
Voters made their voice clear when this question failed at the 2018 November Election. Yes, financial markets move quickly and cost savings evaporate, but voters have indicated they prefer to decide when Section 143 of the Boulder City Charter requires that “all expenditures from the Capital Improvement refinancing is appropriate, even if it means losing out on interest savings. And although refinancing does Fund must be approved by a simple majority of the votes cast by the registered voters of the City on not add to the principal debt, it is considered “new” debt. a proposition placed before them in a special election or general Municipal election or general State Any change to the Code which was implemented by initiative petition should be initiated by those election.” who voted in favor of this amendment. It should be changed or modified in the same manner it was A “YES” vote would allow the City to use funds from the Capital Improvement Fund, as they become implemented. available, in the amount of Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000) towards the design and construction of a Submitted by the City Clerk as provided for in NRS 295.217 new aquatics facility in order to reduce the bond obligation. A “NO” vote would not allow the City to expend funds from the Capital Improvement Fund towards the design and construction of a new aquatics facility in order to reduce the bond obligation.
ARGUMENT AGAINST PASSAGE
This ballot question is based on the opinion of the City’s bond attorneys who state they are unable to render a validity opinion in order for the City to refinance existing debt due to limitations contained within Section 2-7-2 of the Boulder City Code. The City has the option to seek a validity opinion from a different The Capital Improvement Fund (CIF) is used to fund capital projects such as restoration, maintenance, bond counsel. and construction of city facilities, fire and police vehicles, etc. Using Capital Improvement Funds to help fund a new aquatic facility to replace the current pool, which is failing, would be an appropriate use of The Code which limits the City’s ability to incur debt of one million dollars ($1,000,000) without voter the Capital Improvement Fund. The City’s CIF is funded through the proceeds of leases (20% of lease approval was implemented by initiative petition. Any changes or modifications to this portion of the Code revenues) and land sales (98% of proceeds). Currently, the CIF balance, with all planned expenditures should be implemented in the same manner. accounted for is $9.9 million. If approved, the use of up to $5 million from the CIF will help to bring down the bond obligation of a new aquatic facility, bringing the requested $40 million bond down to a $35 Submitted by the City Clerk as provided for in NRS 295.217 million bond. This will have a positive effect on the amount of interest paid and the amount of property taxes used to secure the bond for the project. The $5 million will be put toward design and construction, REBUTTAL TO ARGUMENT AGAINST PASSAGE and will be deducted in 2020, leaving a remaining fund balance of over $6 million. Even with all planned CIF expenditures and the funding of a new aquatic facility, the CIF is projected to return to $9.8 million Bond counselors are licensed attorneys with a high level of training and a very specific area of expertise. within one year. By 2024, the CIF balance is projected at $17.1 million assuming the construction of a Their role is to represent a municipal bondholder’s interest—in this case, the City of Boulder City—to new aquatic facility and all other planned expenditures. A new aquatic center would enhance the beauty ensure that its actions are consistent with statutory requirements. Because bonds represent the “full and use of Broadbent Park, while providing health and fitness benefits across all generations of our faith and credit” of the issuer, these attorneys conduct rigorous due diligence to ensure that the bond community. issuance is correct, complete and properly structured. This level of investigation requires a thorough understanding of all related legal and financial issues, including Boulder City Code. To suggest that the Submitted by Ballot Question Committee as provided for in NRS 295.217 City can simply seek another opinion, like you might do for a car repair, dramatically undervalues their level of expertise and is simply an attempt to hamper the City’s efforts to save you money. REBUTTAL TO ARGUMENT FOR PASSAGE As for the limitation on expenditures without voter approval, this measure would not diminish residents’ A new pool is a capital project, and the Capital Improvement Fund is an appropriate use for funding ability to oversee City spending, as was the intent, as refinancing bonds does not create new debt but a capital project. However, if voters do not approve the issuance of general obligation bonds for rather reduces the cost of existing bonds. Rejecting this common-sense measure is like cutting off your constructing the aquatic facility, it is not appropriate to spend $5 million on design costs for a pool that nose to spite your face. The only reasonable vote is to approve this ballot question. may not ever be built. The City has an estimate of all potential costs of the new aquatic facility. Using Submitted by the Ballot Question Committee as provided for in NRS 295.217 Capital Improvement Fund money for design costs in order to determine the exact costs is not fiscally responsible. If the bond question fails, $5 million has been wasted, and the community is left without an FISCAL NOTE aquatic center and with $5 million less in the Capital Improvement Fund. This question should only be passed when and if the citizens support the issuance of general obligation bonds to construct the facility. This Ballot Question does not propose (i) a new tax, fee or expense, or (ii) the increase of an existing Submitted by the City Clerk as provided for in NRS 295.217 tax, fee or expense. Depending on market conditions, a “yes” vote could result in interest rate savings without the approval of the electors of Boulder City should the City and its agencies and enterprises incur refunding debt obligations to refinance existing debt obligations as authorized by the Ballot Question; ARGUMENT AGAINST PASSAGE however, the anticipated financial effect of a “yes” vote cannot be determined at this time. The anticipated Vote “NO” on Question No. 1. This question is a companion question to Question No. 3 which requests financial effect of a “no” vote would prohibit interest rate savings with respect to existing debt obligations voter approval for the issuance of general obligation bonds for a new aquatic center. If the pool question of the City and its agencies and enterprises without the approval of the electors of Boulder City. fails and this question passes, the City has the authority to use up to $5 million towards the design of BALLOT QUESTION NUM. 3 a pool which may never be built. Furthermore, using the Capital Improvement Fund for design costs only is not an appropriate use and is not a capital expense. Rather than use money from the Capital Improvement Fund for any design costs, it should first be determined if voters approve the bond issue for Shall the City of Boulder City be authorized to issue up to $40,000,000 of general obligation bonds for the aquatic center. Spending $5 million on a project prior to getting voter approval for that same project the purpose of acquiring, constructing, improving and equipping recreational projects as defined in NRS 268.710, including an aquatic center? The bonds are expected to require a property tax levy for 30 is not fiscally responsible. years. The bonds are estimated to result in an increase in the property taxes that the owner of a new Submitted by the City Clerk as provided for in NRS 295.217 $100,000 home will pay, which will average $126.00 per year. If this question is approved by the voters, any property tax levied to pay the bonds will be outside of the caps on a taxpayer’s liability for property (ad valorem) taxes established by the legislators in the 2005 session. REBUTTAL TO ARGUMENT AGAINST PASSAGE ARGUMENT FOR PASSAGE
A “Yes” vote would allow the City to apply $5 million from the Capital Improvement Fund, decreasing the interest bearing principle of the project. Should the $40 million bond fail, and Question No. 1 pass, the $5 million could be used by the City for design costs of a new facility which could save the City money in future inflation costs and expedite construction when approved. This would be a decision made by our City Council members. The $5 million could also remain designated in the Capital Improvement Fund for future application toward design and construction of a new aquatic facility. Should the $40 million bond issue fail, the condition of our current facility ensures a future bond proposal in 2020, as our current facility is failing. It is becoming increasingly difficult, both physically and financially, to maintain and is at risk of being permanently closed. Closing our current facility would be a tremendous loss to our community as generations of citizens depend upon it for both recreation and fitness. A closed facility at Broadbent Park, in the heart of our school zone, would not only be an eyesore, but a liability.
Yes . . . . . . . . . . [ ] No . . . . . . . . . . [ ] EXPLANATION
A “yes” vote would permit the City Council of Boulder City, Nevada, to issue up to $40,000,000 of general obligation bonds. The proceeds of the bonds are to be used for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, improving and equipping recreational projects, including an aquatic center. The proposed question does not add to, change, or repeal any existing laws. If the question is approved by the voters, the question will create, generate and increase public revenue. The property tax rate to be levied to repay the bonds is expected to be $0.36 per $100 of assessed valuation during the 30 year term of the bonds. If this question is approved by the voters, any property tax levied as authorized by this question will be outside Submitted by the Ballot Question Committee as provided for in NRS 295.217 of the caps on a taxpayer’s liability for property (ad valorem) taxes established by the 2005 Nevada Legislature. FISCAL NOTE A “NO” vote would not allow the City to issue up to $40,000,000 of general obligation bonds for these This will impact the Capital Improvement Fund in the amount of not more than $5,000,000 and then only purposes at this time. if funds are available within the Capital Improvement Fund. This question does not require an expense ARGUMENT FOR PASSAGE that will require the levy or imposition of a new tax or fee of the increase of an existing tax or fee. BALLOT QUESTION NUM. 2
A new aquatic facility is important to our city as a quality of life enhancement, directly affecting the health and well-being of the citizens of our city. Our current very aged facility has reached the end of its life, Shall the Boulder City Code be amended to provide that Boulder City and its agencies and enterprises with thousands of dollars being spent each year, above and beyond normal maintenance costs, to keep it functional. Additionally, it fails to meet Southern Nevada Health District and Nevada Administrative may refinance existing debt obligations, as determined by the City Council? codes. Any bond for a project such as the proposed facility, must cover the entire expense. The City will Yes . . . . . . . . . . [ ] only issue the bonds it needs to cover the final cost of the proposed facility. An increase in property taxes No . . . . . . . . . . [ ] will be used as collateral to secure the bond, however, City Council has pledged, through Resolution No. 6907, to exhaust all available funding opportunities before considering raising property taxes. Any EXPLANATION funding acquired would lower the needed amount of the bond to complete the project. THE BOULDER CITY LIMITATION ON DEBT OBLIGATION ORDINANCE which was initiated by petition on Any bonds purchased will be set to be paid off in 30 years, however, the City has an option to pay the November 9, 2010, provides in Section 2-7-2 of the Boulder City Code as follows: bonds off early, saving interest costs and passing those savings on to tax payers. Keeping in mind that the Council is resolved to exhaust all outside funding that can be acquired, the worst case scenario would LIMITATION ON CITY DEBT OBLIGATION: be the City uses 30 years to pay off $40 million in bonds (the life of the bond issue), it would cost $79 The City and its agencies and enterprises shall not incur any new debt obligations of one million dollars million ($40 million principle and $39 million interest assuming a 5% interest rate). ($1,000,000) or more, as defined under Nevada Revised Statutes 350.0045 to Nevada Revised Statues 350.0075 inclusive, without the approval of the electors of Boulder City in a general or special election. Proposals to renovate the current facility in lieu of building a new facility falls short of understanding the true scope and requirements to do so. A major renovation would require nearly, if not all, of the facility (Ord. 1423, 11-9-2010, eff. 11-9-2010). to be dug up in its entirety and rebuilt in order to meet required codes. Additionally, the air support Because of the limitations contained within Section 2-7-2 of the Boulder City Code, the City’s bond structure currently used does not meet health and administrative codes. A building would be required counsel is unable to render a validity opinion in connection with refunding obligations of one million to continue year round use. With the creation of a new aquatic facility, the current facility would be dollars ($1,000,000) or more incurred by the City and its agencies and enterprises to refinance existing completely eliminated and that area turned into green park space keeping the beauty and aesthetics of the neighborhood. debt obligations without the approval of the electors of Boulder City. The City Council of Boulder City is requesting, through this Ballot Question, approval from the electors The need for a new aquatic facility is paramount. It would serve citizens of all ages from infant to senior. of Boulder City of an amendment to the Boulder City Code to provide that Boulder City and its agencies The proposed design allows for a wide range of aquatic programing, BCHS and BCH Swim Teams use, a and enterprises may refinance existing debt obligations without the approval of the electors of Boulder relocation of the Boulder City Fitness Center, and more. City for the purpose of reducing interest costs or effecting other economies or modifying or eliminating Submitted by the Ballot Question Committee as provided for in NRS 295.217 restrictive contractual limitations concerning the existing debt obligations, as determined by the City Council. Currently, approval from the electors of Boulder City of the refinancing of debt obligations is limited to a general or special election which limits the ability of the City and its agencies and enterprises REBUTTAL TO ARGUMENT FOR PASSAGE to react to favorable market conditions in real time. The current pool is operational and can be repaired as needed when equipment fails. The Southern A “YES” vote would allow for the Boulder City Code to be amended to provide that Boulder City and its Nevada Health District requires that any major construction at the swimming pool complex would agencies and enterprises may refinance existing debt obligations, as determined by the City Council. automatically require an update to meet current health district and building codes. However, replacement of like systems as they fail would not require the City to upgrade the facility to the current code standards A “NO” vote would not allow the Boulder City Code to be amended to allow for the refinancing of existing as the current pool is grandfathered into the codes used when the pool was built. debt obligations as determined by the City Council.
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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • MAy 9-15, 2019
Equipment to furnish offices and other rooms within the proposed facility could be purchased with about economic development, only one designated access route would be necessary between our General Fund revenues as opposed to using general obligation bonds. business corridor and recreation areas. Question 4 was conceived by a minority group of residents who want the convenience of operating OHVs directly from their driveways, so they are not inconvenienced by The need for a new pool is not a new idea. Issuing $40 million of general obligation bonds to cover every having to trailer their OHVs to recreation areas. possible expense rather than offering a mix of Capital Improvement Fund money, General Fund money, and other acquired funding sources is taking the risk these funding sources may not be utilized. Bordering neighborhoods along the desert are already being impacted by the noise and dust generated by OHVs. Allowing OHV operation on our city streets will not benefit anyone but OHV users, and there Submitted by the City Clerk as provided for in NRS 295.217 is no evidence this will bring better control or regulation of OHV recreation. Turning Boulder City into a destination for OHV tourism will not make our community better or safer. ARGUMENT AGAINST PASSAGE Submitted by the Ballot Question Committee as provided for in NRS 295.217 There is no question a new pool is needed. And the majority of citizens surveyed (73%) expressed support of a new aquatic facility. But when they were surveyed, they did not know the estimated cost ARGUMENT AGAINST PASSAGE would be $40 million. Although the City Council has formally expressed it would actively seek other funding sources prior to implementing a property tax increase, there is no guarantee property taxes Question 4 asks voters if they support the use of off highway vehicles (OHVs) on City streets. NRS would not be raised. Besides funding from the Capital Improvement Fund (CIF) proposed in Question No. 490.060 defines an “Off-highway vehicle” as any motor vehicle that is designed primarily for off-highway 1 and if the question passes, what other sources have been identified? Some of the costs of the aquatic and all-terrain use. NRS 490.100 allows a City or County to designate any portion of a highway within center should be paid from the City’s General Fund Capital budget rather than bonding for all expenses. the city or county as permissible for the operation of off-highway vehicles for the purpose of allowing Debt is expensive and should be used for needs that will outlive the debt itself. off-highway vehicles to reach a private or public area that is open for use by off-highway vehicles. The City or County may also allow for minors under the age of 16 to operate an OHV under the direct visual In addition, the question states $40 million of general obligation bonds would be for the purpose of supervision of a person who is at least 18 years in age. acquiring, constructing, improving and equipping recreational projects as defined in NRS 268.710. These recreational projects are defined in NRS as parks, playgrounds, swimming pools, golf courses, tennis Recent revisions to NRS 490 were intended for lower-population rural communities, distant from urban courts, squash courts, other courts, ball fields, other athletic fields, tracks, racecourses, playgrounds, areas, to allow OHV access via designated paved roads. stadiums, fieldhouses, rinks, gymnasiums, appurtenant shower, locker and other bathhouse facilities, amusement halls, dance halls, auditoriums, arenas, theaters, concert halls, museums, exposition Proponents of Question 4 have proposed plans to attract hundreds of OHVs to Boulder City to access buildings, aviaries, aquariums, zoological gardens, biological gardens and vivariums, and structures, services (restaurants, gas stations, etc.) and then return to the desert areas for recreation via City streets. fixtures, furnishings and equipment therefor. If OHV’s are allowed to operate on City streets, it will lead to increased traffic, noise, and dust in our neighborhoods. Opponents of Question 4 believe the negative impacts will destroy Boulder City’s charm. Citizens want to know exactly what they are voting for and how much it will cost. More work needs to be done in order to provide an accurate and detailed bond request that citizens can support. OHV activity on the desert area trails around Boulder City already negatively impacts air quality, particularly when OHVs operate in areas known to contain asbestos in the soil. Submitted by the City Clerk as provided for in NRS 295.217 The Boulder City Police Department has a history of not providing effective enforcement of existing OHV ordinances. OHVs, other than “large all-terrain vehicles” (seating for 4 or more), will not be required REBUTTAL TO ARGUMENT AGAINST PASSAGE to display a license plate that can be used to identify those disobeying traffic laws making enforcement NRS 268.710 clearly states what types of projects the bond funds can be used for and this project more difficult. Persons under the age 16, without a driver’s license issued by the DMV, may also be complies. We have been told exactly what the bond monies will be used for as shown in the architectural allowed to operate an “off-highway” vehicles without a driver’s license so long as they can be seen by an drawings and plans as published, including, swim pools, locker rooms, exercise rooms, staff and meeting adult, and that adult is not required to themselves have a driver’s license. rooms, locker/toilet/shower rooms, as well as two replacement tennis courts. The aquatic and fitness facility information as to content has been made available. The design is based on the survey results Our Boulder City neighborhoods are already beset by the noise and dust generated by OHVs, and which state what was most desired. discourteous OHV operators that drive OHVs in areas already prohibited from operation of such vehicles. Time, inflation, and unavoidable contingencies make it impossible to give an exact cost of any project The presence of OHVs on our city streets will detract from the atmosphere and town character that such as this. Estimates to safely cover these issues are included in the $40 million cost. attracts people to visit or reside in Boulder City. A yes vote for the $40 million bond, should this issue pass, is a visible commitment of the City’s intent Submitted by the Ballot Question Committee as provided for in NRS 295.217 to plan and construct an aquatic facility. Once financially committed, the City can then seek and accept donations, grants, and other outside funding which are not available without this commitment to the REBUTTAL TO ARGUMENT AGAINST PASSAGE project. These outside funding sources as well as internal financial management (possible solar energy revenue, Capital Improvement Fund, Capital Fund General budget) would reduce the amount of bonds By voting YES, you are supporting the use of OHVs on designated routes which could provide convenience needed and may have little, if any effect on property taxes. and economic benefits for residents and businesses. Current concerns could be addressed through enforceable laws to keep our roads safe. Submitted by the Ballot Question Committee as provided for in NRS 295.217 There is no statement of intent in current NRS 490. Discretion is given to cities and counties, allowing them to be more restrictive regarding the operation of OHVs including age, license requirements, and ADDITIONAL INFORMATION restricting OHV use to designated routes and roads. The purpose of the proposed bonds is to acquire, construct, improve and equip recreational projects of the City, including an aquatic center. Dust is not a factor because Question No. 4 only relates to operation of OHVs on paved city streets. Having minimal access leading to the trails via paved roads reduces dust around our homes. It opens the possibility for OHV operators to park trailers away from downtown while still allowing local shopping, FISCAL NOTE eating, and fueling. If assessed value of property in the City decreases or if the growth of assessed value of property in the City does not increase as projected, approval of the question could require a property tax rate within NRS 490.082 requires all OHVs be registered through the Department of Motor Vehicles and display a the City greater than the property tax rate which has been projected by the City as needed to repay the sticker as prescribed by the Commission on Off-Highway Vehicles. bonds. The Boulder City Police Department was recently awarded grant money to promote responsible offThe maximum term of the bonds is 30 years, and the City Council expects that the bonds will have highway recreation including trail and facility studies, planning, mapping, signing, and enforcement. a 30 year term with an anticipated interest rate of 5.0%. The maximum aggregate principal amount of the bonds is $40,000,000 plus total interest costs in the anticipated amount of $39,254,630. The Vote YES on 4! Passage allows discussion of OHV operation only on designated routes under controlled annual operation, maintenance and repair costs of the new facilities are estimated to be $650,000 conditions minimizing impact, dust, noise, and bringing revenue to our local businesses. which is greater than the current annual operation, maintenance and repair costs of the existing facility of $540,000. These operation, maintenance and repair costs are expected to be paid from the City’s Submitted by the Ballot Question Committee as provided for in NRS 295.217 general operating budget and are not expected to affect the tax rate. If this question is approved by the voters, any property tax levied as authorized by this question will be outside of the caps on a FISCAL NOTE taxpayer’s liability for property (ad valorem) taxes established by the 2005 Nevada Legislature. There are no requirements relating to the bond proposal which are imposed pursuant to a court order or federal This question may require an expense that will require the levy or imposition of a new tax or fee or the or state statute. increase of an existing tax or fee. BALLOT QUESTION NUM. 4 This question is advisory only: Do you support the operation of Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) on City Streets pursuant to NRS 490.100? Yes . . . . . . . . . . [ ] No . . . . . . . . . . [ ] EXPLANATION The City Council of Boulder City is asking, through this Advisory Ballot Question, if the voters would support the operation of Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) on City Streets pursuant to NRS 490.100. This is an Advisory Question only and the result of the voting on this question does not place any legal requirement on the City of Boulder City, any member of the Boulder City Council, or any officer of the City of Boulder City.
DIGEST NRS 295.230.2(a)(I)(II) A. Summary of Existing Laws Related to the Measure Proposed by the Question: 1. Boulder City Code, Title 7, Chapter 5, Public Land Use a. Section 7. Prohibited Conduct in Public Parks B. Summary of how the measure proposed by the question: 1. Adds to Existing Laws – This ballot measure may add to existing laws, it will potentially amend existing laws by amending Prohibited Conduct in Public Parks found in Title 7, Chapter 5, Section 7 of the Boulder City Code. 2. Changes Existing Laws – This ballot measure potentially changes existing laws by amending the Boulder City Code. 3. Repeals Existing Laws – This ballot measure may repeal an existing law by removing Title 7, Chapter 5, Section 7 from the Boulder City Municipal Code.
FINANCIAL EFFECT A “YES” vote would indicate support for the operation of Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) on City Streets pursuant to NRS 490.100. This question may require the proposal of a bond, tax, fee or other expense. The funding source for this possible code amendment is not currently identified. A “NO” vote would indicate no support for the operation of Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) on City Streets pursuant to NRS 490.100. FURTHER, the Municipal General Election on Tuesday, June 11, 2019, will be conducted in the manner as provided by the election laws of the State of Nevada and the City of Boulder City. Voters may vote at Because an advisory question does not place any legal requirement on the City of Boulder City, any any Election Day Vote Center. You no longer have to go to a Vote Center within Boulder City. For other member of the Boulder City Council, or any officer of the City of Boulder City, the success of an advisory Election Day Vote Center locations, a link to an interactive, mobile device enable Vote Center map can be question does not mandate action or automatically codify the question being asked. Additional formal found at www.ClarkCountyNV.gov/vote. steps must be taken by the City Council to codify the will of the electorate in the event that the Advisory Question is successful. Boulder City Election Day Vote Centers are at the following locations. Polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. ARGUMENT FOR PASSAGE Question #4 is strictly an advisory question asking voters if they support the use of Off Highway Vehicles Boulder City Recreation Center (OHV’s) on city streets. Question #4 only pertains to the use of OHV’s on designated city streets, NOT 900 Arizona Street to be confused with the use of OHV’s in the desert area throughout Nevada, which is already legal per Boulder City, Nevada Nevada Revised Statute. Martha P. King Elementary Nevada has the highest percentage of public lands of any state (85%). It is estimated that for every mile 888 S. Adams Boulevard of paved road, there are at least 10 miles of unpaved road or trail within Nevada. Surrounding states have seen a very positive economic impact from OHV recreation; $4.25 billion annually to Arizona’s Boulder City, Nevada economy, $1.8 billion annually to Colorado’s economy, and $58.5 million to Utah’s economy in 2017 Aides for handicapped persons and persons 65 years of age or older will be available at each vote center. directly through the Paiute Trails which is a single trail system within the state of Utah that is only open Those hearing impaired persons who desire voting information may call the T.D.D. telephone at 711 (TTY\ TDD) For visually impaired voters, audio voting is available during the early voting period at City Hall and 4-6 months per year due to weather conditions. on Election Day at any vote center. OHV users make up 28.1% of the population in the Western U.S., 23.9% of the population of Nevada. Over half of OHV users are over age 43. Colorado experiences individuals taking an average of 17 OHV Absent ballot request cards are available at the Boulder City City Clerk’s Office for said General Election, trips annually, with typical spending between $446 (from Colorado residents) and $2,352 (non-Colorado and all written requests for absent ballots must be received at the Clark County Election Department no residents) on each trip including food, fuel, and lodging. later than June 4, 2019 at 5:00 p.m. Some of the benefits of allowing OHV’s on city streets would be the availability of grant money for maps, signage, education/enforcement of laws, improved family-friendly recreation and quality of life in Boulder City, access to Nevada’s existing trail system through designated access points, and a positive economic impact by making Boulder City a destination for tourism. Increased tourism generates greater business income and tax revenues which in turn helps reduce the potential need to increase taxes to the public. Any concerns regarding OHV use on City streets could be addressed with the implementation of a proactive ordinance.
You may vote an any early voting site of your choice. To find sites outside of Boulder City, go to www. ClarkCountyNV.gov/vote for a link to an interactive, mobile device enables early voting site map. Early voting in Boulder City will be conducted in the Boulder City Council Chambers, 401 California Avenue as follows: Wednesday & Thursday
May 29 & 30, 2019
OHV users would be required to comply with all laws and regulations pertaining to any potential future Friday & Saturday May 31 & June 1, 2019 approved ordinances. Other Nevada communities have already adopted effective legislation regarding the use of OHV’s on City streets. Boulder City could simply adopt those same regulations preventing the need to re-invent the wheel. This also allows Boulder City to create its own legislation rather than the Dated this 24th day of April 2019. state legislators deciding for us. Vote yes on Question #4. Help build a stronger economy! Potential for better controls and regulation! Increased family recreation! /s/Lorene Krumm_____________ Submitted by the Ballot Question Committee as provided for in NRS 295.217 Lorene Krumm, City Clerk City of Boulder City, Nevada REBUTTAL TO ARGUMENT FOR PASSAGE The argument in favor of Question 4 provides statistics about OHV use, which apply to public lands in rural areas of western states. Boulder City is an urbanized community adjacent to a major metropolitan LVRJ May 8 and 15, 2019 area, and should not be compared to rural Nevada. At 28%, OHV users comprise a minority of the El Tiempo, May 8 and 15, 2019 population. Proponents of Question 4 openly advocate legalizing OHVs on all City streets, which seems LV Asian Journal, May 9 and 16, 2019 unnecessary for their economic goals. Opponents of Question 4 believe that if the OHV initiative is truly
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May 9-15, 2019 • LaS VEGaS aSIaN JOURNaL
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VEGAS&STYLE Journal
3 Fil-Ams receive 2019 Tony nominations by AJPress THREE Filipino Americans are among the artists and creatives who received nominations for this year’s 73rd annual Tony Awards. Broadway star Eva Noblezada is nominated for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical for her role as Eurydice in “Hadestown.” This is Noblezada’s second Tony Award nomination after she was also nominated in 2017 for her lead
Filipino dance group VPeepz
Photo courtesy of NBC
VPeepz finishes 4th in US ‘World of Dance’ by KriSSy
aguilar Inquirer.net
Clint Ramos and Lea Salonga worked together on “Once On This Island.” Photo from Instagram/@clintramos
role as Kim in “Miss Saigon.” “Can’t believe it. Wow. We don’t make art for recognition. We do it because it heals us. And I represent myself, but more so the magical humans I fall in love with every night. Thank you,” Noblezada wrote in a tweet on Tuesday, following the announcement. Filipino American set designer Robert Brill is co-nominated along with Peter Nigrini for Best Scenic Design of a Musical for their work on “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations.” In 2004, Brill received his first Tony nomination for his set design in “Assassins.” It was followed in 2009 for his work in “Guys and Dolls.” Filipino American costume designer Clint Ramos also received his third Tony nomination for Best Costume Design of a Play for his work on “Torch Song.” Ramos won the prestigious Eva Noblezada Photo from Instagram/@livevamaria award in 2016 for “Eclipsed,”
Robert Brill Photo from broadwayworld.com
which featured Academy Award winning actress Lupita Nyong’o. He was once again hailed for costume design on “Once On This Island” in 2019. The awarding ceremony will take place on June 9 at the Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Actor James Corden will host the 73rd Tony Awards.
FILIPINO dance group VPeepz finished in fourth place in the American competition “World of Dance.” The group received an average score of 93.7 with their dance routine of Macklemore and Ryan Lewis’ “Can’t Hold Us.” “The synchronicity, the intricacy. You had stepping in there. You had locking in there. There were so many styles, the energy was off the charts. Well done guys. Amazing final routine. Great job,” judge Derek Hough said after the group’s performance.
Judge Ne-Yo, on the other hand, pointed out the group’s fast moves, saying “The V in VPeepz stands for very fast-moving group.” “You guys should be proud. You guys swept your division and now you’re up against the adults,” judge Jennifer Lopez said. VPeepz was named as the Junior Team Division Champions last week which paved the way for them to be among the competition’s finalists. In a Facebook post on Monday, the group said it was an honor to represent the country in the competition and expressed thanks to those who have sup-
ported them in the journey. “SURREAL. To make it to the World Final of World of Dance is such a huge opportunity to showcase our brand of dance and Filipino talent. It’s an honor to go up against the best dancers at the highest level of competition,” the group wrote. “We thank all our supporters for staying with us all throughout this journey,” it added. “IT’S A DREAM COME TRUE. Moving forward to greater things ahead.” Meanwhile, Indian dance crew The Kings won the competition with a perfect score of 100 and took home the prize money of one million dollars.
Filipino, Chinese heroes face off at sea by Janvic
Mateo Philstar.com
IN what could be a reference to the ongoing territorial dispute between the Philippines and China, Marvel’s new Filipina superhero will have a tense encounter with a Chinese counterpart in the upcoming comic book series “War of the Realms.” Filmmaker and comic book writer Greg Pak yesterday shared a teaser for Marvel’s “War of the Realms: Agents of Atlas #1” that is expected to be released next week. It featured Filipina superhero Pearl Pangan, also known as Wave, who investigates “something wrong” in the waters in the north Pacific. She encounters Chinese superhero Lei Ling, also known as Aero, who confronts her with being outside her territory in the Philippine sea. Wave retorts, saying the area is not part of Chinese waters. A tremor interrupts the confrontation, with Aero saying she went to the area to investigate a disturbance in the wind. An unidentified character, who appears from the sea, later attacks the two superheroes after Wave tries to part the waters to investigate further. Other characters also featured in the teasers released by Pak, include Cindy Moon (Silk), Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel), Kung-Fu Master Shang Chi, Amadeus Cho (Brawn) and Atlas leader Jimmy Woo. War of the Realms: Agents of Atlas #1 is slated to be released on May 8. Filipino Twitter users were
Preview panels from Marvel Comics’ “War of the Realms: New Agents of Atlas #1” shows Filipina superhero Wave facing off with Chinese heroine Aero after a disturbance in waters being disputed by their homelands. Photo courtesy of Marvel Comics
among those who had the most number of posts about “Avengers: Endgame,” which has become the most tweeted movie in history. Twitter said the Philippines was in third spot among countries that tweeted the most about Avengers: Endgame, following the United States and Brazil. Completing the top 10 were Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Indonesia and France. The social media platform said
Avengers: Endgame, the 22nd installment in the Marvel cinematic universe, became the most tweeted movie ever with more than 50 million tweets this year, Half of those were posted in the past week after the worldwide release of the movie. Among characters, Twitter said villain Thanos was the most tweeted, followed by Thor, Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk, Loki, Spiderman, Black Widow, Groot and Nebula.
Gerald Anderson credits Kim Chiu for career success by Jan
Milo Severo Philstar.com
FROM a teen “Pinoy Big Brother” housemate to matinee idol, Kapamilya actor Gerald Anderson has now come a long way in his career. Apart from hard work, he credited long-time love team partner Kim Chiu for helping him reach where he is now. In a recent press conference for his new movie “Between Maybes” with Kapamilya actress Julia Barretto, Gerald said he would not have achieved anything if not for his love team with Kim. “Kung hindi rin lang dahil sa love team, I wouldn’t be here. Ganon lang talaga ‘yung totoo. Dahil din sa love team namin ni Kim, doon ako nagkaroon ng confidence na to explore and doon din ako na-inlove sa craft ko,” Gerald said. “I would say I’m very blessed and grateful. Siyempre it took a lot of hard work also para umabot din kung sa ano man ‘yung narating ko,” he added. After being paired in blockbuster movies with different partners such as Pia Wurtzbach, Arci
Gerald Anderson and Kim Chiu used to be called “Kimerald” as a love team. ABS-CBN photos
Munoz, Sarah Geronimo, and Bea Alonzo, Gerald is now paired with Julia for Black Sheep’s upcoming movie directed by Jason Paul Laxamana. Gerald said he is excited and feeling refreshed to be paired with Julia. “Na-excite ako. Lagi naman akong naee-excite pag may bagong leading lady na makakasama. Iba ‘yung combination, it’s very refreshing, iba naman
‘yung dynamics mo and siyempre it’s a challenge kasi kailangan kahit wala kayong pinagsamahang projects, kailangan magkaroon kayo ng chemistry,” Gerald said. In the movie, Gerald plays Louie Puyat, who has been living his life in Saga, Japan until Hazel Ilagan (Julia) arrived and shook his silent life. They develop a functional relationship, wherein Louie checks on Hazel during her vacation.
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Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond MONETTE ADEVA MAGLAYA HOW about a double scoop of stories about the kindness of the human heart? The first story is that of Lou Xiaoying. Lou is one remarkable Chinese woman who is a beacon of light, a ray of hope and a surge of warmth in a world that is sometimes overpowered by the forces of darkness. Her story needs to be retold over and over again in light of the fact that recently in the state of New York, it has become legal (yet utterly amoral and starkly depraved) to terminate the life of the unborn at full term. A few states are following suit. Yet other states are enacting preemptive laws to prevent such evil becoming law. May God have mercy on all of those evil lawmakers in New York and other states as they get their comeuppance. I wrote about Lou a few years back to shine a light on the life of a woman, who despite humble circumstances, managed to save the lives of babies salvaged from the trash heap, apparently discarded by women in compliance with China’s then draconian onechild policy to curb its population growth. She lived in the rural countryside in Eastern Zhejiang province. Picture her home as it was then. It is a humble hovel, its small yard littered with debris and recyclables. A little boy of 7 plays in the yard. Lou lived in that home with her husband Lin until he preceded her in death more than 20 years ago. When I first wrote about Lou in 2012, she was 88 years old and lay languishing of kidney failure in a hospital. Despite pain and impending death, Lou looks beautiful in repose. Her eyes sparkle with joy. A calm peacefulness is etched in her face. Lou and her husband made a living scavenging the village trash for recyclables. It was a
Health@Heart PHILIP S. CHUA, MD, FACS, FPCS THE old cliché that health is wealth is timeless, always pertinent and relevant and a scientific truth many of us have taken for granted…until we later discover (sometimes too late) that, indeed, health is truly wealth. Steve Wynn, 77, with a net worth of $3 billion, owns six 5-star casinos in Las Vegas and one in Macau. He is “going blind” from his incurable retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative disease of the eyes. He would surely be happy to give away one or two of his casinos (Bellagio, Mirage, Treasure Island, Wynn, Encore, Wynn Macau) to any one who could cure his illness and bring back his health. There are other countless rich and famous who would have gladly paid millions to get a cure for their cancers or other deadly diseases, which had prematurely ended their life and stopped them from earning more. Yes, indeed, health is wealth, a personal commodity we cannot afford to lose, a treasure we must protect and nurture with care. Below are some queries from our readers I have collected and grouped together by topics with my reply: Do we really have bacteria in our hands? Unwashed hands have about 3,200 bacteria from 150 different species. Yes, that’s no typo: 3,200. Surprised! Among them are Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Staphylococcus wameri, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staph aureus, and Enterobacter cloacae, S. hominis, coryneform bacteria, and the fungus Pityrosporum Malassezia, etc. How dirty is money? Money is definitely dirty and I am not figuratively talking about plundered money by amoral politicians or drug blood money. Coins and paper money have tons of germs, like those found in human hands, plus E.coli (from toilet users who do not wash their hands). Money goes around millions of times from person to person in the same city, other cities or States, or even countries. And not all persons are hygienic. There are over 100 strains of bacteria on dollar bills circulating around. Two of them are Propronibacterium acnes (acne-causing bacterium) and Streptococcus oralis found in the mouth. In some paper bills traces of cocaine are found on about 80 percent of them in some major cities, and also traces of amphetamines, heroin, morphine, and
COMMUNITY JOURNAL
LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 9-15, 2019
Making a difference Calendar of Events across Two stories of kindness to warm the heart
tough, backbreaking way of life trudging through the streets and sifting through other people’s often filthy and smelly discards. Over the years, they picked up 30 abandoned babies from the trash heap. Of the 30 foundlings they saved, the couple kept 4 babies to raise themselves and the rest, they gave away to friends and relatives. They have one biological child, a woman, who is now past 50 years old. When Lou was 82 and already a widow, she saved one more baby from the trash. She said, “Even though I was already getting old I could not simply ignore the baby and leave him to die in the trash. He looked so sweet and so needy. I had to take him home with me … My older children all help look after Zhang Qilin … I named him after the Chinese word for rare and precious.” Lou’s story is riveting for its simple, unquestioning reverence for life despite living in stark poverty. She didn’t start out wanting to rescue foundlings but in 1982, her heart was touched when she found the first child, a baby girl, who was lying helpless and abandoned amongst the trash. “Watching her grow and become stronger gave us such happiness and I realized I had a real love of caring for children … These children need love and care. They are all precious human lives. I do not understand how people can leave such a vulnerable baby on the streets. I realized if we had strength enough to collect garbage how could we not recycle something as important as human lives?” Since 1978, the Chinese communist government has enforced, with few exceptions, its one-child policy. Families were prevented from having more than one child under pain of penalty. Those who abide by the rule are given bonuses and incentives. Boys are preferred in Chinese culture so that couples who want a son feel
compelled to throw away infant girls. It is claimed that the policy prevented the birth of 400 million babies. It seems that presently, China may have relaxed that social engineering policy for the time being, perhaps realizing the inadvertent negative effects on their society and culture over the long term. Lou’s life story bears resemblance to the story of the little boy and the jellyfish that is doing its rounds in the internet these days. There was once a little boy walking on the beach. He noticed that as the tide receded, there were thousands of jellyfish being washed up and lay stranded helpless on the shore. He picked them up one by one and began tossing each jellyfish back into the water, into the sea where they can survive and live. A man also walking along the shore watched the boy in utter disbelief. To him, the boy was trying to do the impossible. Shaking his head, the man approached the boy and asked, “Hey, kid, what do you think you’re doing? You can never make a difference. There are thousands of jellyfish. You’ll only save a few of them.” The boy looked at him, shrugged his shoulders and went back to throwing one more jellyfish back to the water, and told him, “Made a difference to that one …” Each precious human life saved certainly made a difference to that one life. If the Lord gives us just one chance to make a small difference everyday in someone’s life, by all means take it. The world becomes an infinitely better place with every quiet act of kindness that we take. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com
Is health really wealth? peoples’ DNA. How often should we wash our hands? The rule of thumb is at least 8 times a day: Before and after each meal (6), after using the bathroom (at least twice). Added to this are hand washing following activities such as cooking, gardening, house cleaning (indoor and outdoor). Touching handrails, door knobs, other surfaces in public areas also contaminate our hands. If you are washing your hands less than 8 times a day, then you are allowing those 3,200 germs to thrive and contaminate food you eat with your bare hands. Surgeons scrub their hand for no less than 10 minutes by the clock, using germicidal soap solution, followed by alcohol wash, to prevent infection in their patients. Are hand sanitizers better than soap and water? No. Hand washing with regular soap and water even for 10 seconds is much better. The idea is to reduce the “dose” (number of bacteria) in the hands to allow our own immune system to fight the remaining few bugs. This is the same principle in surgical scrubs. After 10 minute scrub, surgeons hands could still have a few remaining bacteria. Hence, the added alcohol wash and use of sterile gloves. If hand washing in public places is not possible, hand sanitizers are acceptable temporary substitutes. Remember, these solutions are harsh drying agents. Use of skin lotion helps. Can measles be transmitted by hands? The main mode of transmission of the measles virus is by droplet (particles of virus floating in the air from patient’s breath inhaled by others) but this virus could also thrive on surfaces (tables, chair, spoons, etc) and records show that the examining room could still be infectious two hours after the measles patient has left. If you touch any surface with infected droplets, and touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, you could get infected yourself if you are not vaccinated, and spread the virus to other people by contact also. By the way, the MMR (Measles-Mumps-Rubella, or German Measles) vaccines are protective for at least 20 years, but others get lifetime immunity from them. If in doubt, get tested for antibody, to find out if you are still immune. If not, re-vaccination is recommended, because measles could have deadly complications. How much bacteria are in our mouth? Yes, all orifices and our entire body have germs. As long as our protective skin and mucosa
(shiny lining membrane of the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, etc) and skin are intact, no bacteria can get in and cause infection. Those who do oral hygiene have about 1,000 to 100,000 bacteria on EACH tooth, and those who do not, have between 100 million to one billion on EACH tooth. More than 700 varying strains of germs have been detected in human mouth. At any given moment, there are between 34 to 200 species of germs in our mouth. Most are harmless and are beneficial bacteria which act as probiotics to help in the digestion. Others cause tooth and gum diseases. What causes bad breath? Bad breath or halitosis comes from sulfur gas, which is produced when bacteria in the mouth act on protein that is in saliva and in the decaying foods (especially meats). The Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs) are resistant to many mouth washes, except to Stabilized Chlorine Dioxide which comes in various brand names here and abroad, and which are effective, in together with brushing and flossing at least 3 times a day. Some mouth rinse solutions only mask the odor but Stabilized Chlorine Dioxide actually neutralizes VSCs and garlic breath, etc. Brushing alone is not enough; food stuck between the teeth, especially meat, rot over time. The halitosis, if neglected, could be so severe as to smell like decaying dead animals. Gross, indeed. How many times should we brush our teeth? Brushing (meticulously) and dental flossing after each meal including snacks, followed by a mouth rinse that contains Stabilized Chlorine Dioxide, plus regular dental check-up at least every 6 months, provide good oro-dental health. Dental and gum diseases increase the risk for cardiovascular illnesses, which include heart attack and stroke. Any inflammation in the body is bad for overall health. These two habits (hand-washing and comprehensive oral hygiene) are wise investments that yield great dividends. Health is a priceless wealth. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com
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America
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35th annual Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival The 35th Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival will be presented May 2 - May 10, 2019 at select cinemas in the Los Angeles area. A key highlight of the annual Asian Pacific American Heritage Month activities, the Festival is produced by Visual Communications, the nation’s premier Asian Pacific American media arts center, and enjoys broad support from cinema artists and audiences alike. For more information and the schedule, please visit https://festival.vcmedia.org/2019/.
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Sagalas at Santacruzan in Los Angeles The Filipino Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles will hold its Archdiocesan SANTACRUZAN on Saturday, May 11 at 2:45 p.m. at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels (555 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012). Parishes and civic organizations are invited to join the celebration. Hermana mayores and Hermana menores, sagalas, angels and estrellas will all be in their best attire as they processed towards the altar, honoring our Blessed Virgin Mary. This year’s theme is: “Holy Mary, Handmaid of the Lord, Our Perfect Model In Doing the Will of God.” You are invited to witness one of the most joyful cultural traditions in the Philippines. Come and be with us to celebrate the Crowning of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A Reception/ Dinner-Dance will follow after the Eucharistic celebration at Embassy Suites by Hilton/ 800 N. Central Avenue, Glendale, CA 91203. For more information, please call Patty Santiago (818) 362-4864 / E-mail: piesan@hotmail.com or Arnel Bailon (818) 362-4864.
M AY 1 7-1 9
Santa Maria Ilocos Sur 12th Global Reunion in Honolulu, Hawaii The Santa Maria Ilocos Sur Global Association (SMISGA) and the Santa Marians of Hawaii are sponsoring the Santa Maria Ilocos Sur 12th Global Reunion in Honolulu, Hawaii from May 17-19, 2019. The festivities will start with a meet and greet on May 17 at 5 p.m. at the Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom to be followed by a gala night on May 18 at 5 p.m. at the Dole Cannery Pomaikai Ballroom. A picnic is also scheduled at Ala Moana Beach Park’s Magic Island on Sunday, May 19 starting at 10 a.m. The ticket to attend all the events is $130.00 per person. Due to limited space, reservations must be made not later than March 31, 2019. Hats and t-shirts will also be on sale for $20. For further information, call Nena Empleo at (808) 384-0394, Carlito Soria at (808) 487-3370, Alex Pena at (702) 373-9522 or Orlino Baldonado at (865) 789-8324. Leave a message if there’s no answer. Additional information is also on SMISGA.com and Facebook @ SMISGA19FB. Proceeds from the events will be for various projects in Santa Maria Ilocos Sur and in Hawaii. Donations are tax deductible since SMISGA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization approved by the Internal Revenue Service.
M AY 1 8
Free oil filter & motor oil recycling event in East Los Angeles ATTENTION ALL EAST LA RESIDENTS – Everyone is invited to bring in their used motor oil and used oil filters in exchange for a free new oil filter on Saturday, May 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It will be held at O’Reilly Auto Parts (722 S. Atlantic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90022). Recycling motor oil and filters helps save our environment and keeps our water clean. So, don’t miss out – we’re making it easier for you to keep your car running smoothly and efficiently.
M AY 25
Marist School Marikina to celebrate 55th anniversary in Buena Park, CA Marist Alumni Abroad, coordinated by Arthur ‘Jojo’ P. Armada ‘77, invites alumni, family and friends, and the public who are interested, to the 55th anniversary grand reunion of the Marist School Marikina, to be held on Saturday, May 25, at the Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel (7675 Crescent Ave., Buena Park, CA 90620). The event’s theme is “Celebrating Our Marist Life...The Legacy Continues,” hosted by Marist Alumni Abroad. Dinner and dance: 6 pm to 11 pm; donation: $55/pax (per person). Contact person is overall chair Jojo P. Armada at (626) 216-3529 or email: armadaarthur@yahoo.com.
JUNE 1
7th Historic Filipinotown Kalayaan Parade and Festival in LA The 7th Historic Filipinotown Kalayaan Parade and Festival Committee (7KPFC) announced that it will holding the 7th Kalayaan Parade in Los Angeles on Saturday, June 1, 2019 in commemoration of the 121st PH Independence Day on June 12, 1898. This will be the 7th Kalayaan Parade and Festival in Historic Filipinotown, as the first was held in 2013 in cooperation with the PH Consulate General in Los Angeles. This is the only Independence Day parade and Festival in Los Angeles and is held every year in Historic Filipinotown. For more information, please call Freddie at (818) 220-2075 or email at jfavusa8@gmail.com.
Kalayaan Incorporated’s annual Philippine Independence Day gala in LA Kalayaan Incorporated invites the community to its celebration of the 121st Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence on Saturday, June 1, 2019, at the Los Angeles Airport Marriott Hotel (5855 W. Century Blvd. Los Angeles, CA). Kalayaan is extremely proud to have Honorable Risa Hontiveros, an incumbent senator who assumed office on June 30, 2016, as the grand gala’s guest of honor and speaker. For tickets to the Gala Night, please contact Annie Cuevas-Lim, Kalayaan President at (213) 447-7078. For more information, contact KI PROs Violet Mislang at vmislang@gmail.com or Lady Hope Robillos at lhopepr@yahoo.com.
Diva2Diva concert in Arcadia, CA The JIR Foundation enthusiastically presents Diva2Diva on Saturday, June 1 at 6:30 p.m. at Arcadia Performing Arts Center (188 Campus Drive, Arcadia, California 91007). The concert will feature Kuh Ledesma, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Mitch Valdes and Nanette Inventor. Ticket prices are $145, $100, $75, $60 and $50. Call or text (818) 726-6333 or (818) 612-4500 or visit ladiva2. eventbrite.com.
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The Ibaan Association USA-Canada gala dinner in LA The Ibaan Association USA-Canada will hold its 32nd Annual Gala Dinner & Dance July 20, 2019 from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. at the Hilton Los Angeles / Universal City - Ballroom A at 555 Universal Hollywood Drive, Universal City, California 91608. For reservations call Monica Benitez at (323) 697-3731 / email: monica_benitez03@yahoo.com or Irene May Villafranca at (323) 423-2299 / email: imay02@ yahoo.com. Tickets are $85 for Adults and $40 for Children (3 to 10 years old). Please make checks payable to: Ibaan Association USA-Canada and mail to: Merly Pagunsan at 5025 Heintz St. Baldwin Park, CA 91706. For sponsorship information on our 2019 Souvenir Program please contact President Noli Reyes at homesbynoli@gmail.com or call (818) 458-7888. Please RSVP by April 12, 2019.
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40th annual Philippine Nurses Association of America National Convention in Atlanta, GA The Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA) will have its 40th annual national convention from July 24 to 28 at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, GA, hosted by the PNA-GA chapter. More information and details TBA. To learn about the PNA-GA, please visit: https://pnaga.wildapricot.org/.
AU G U ST 1 - 9
University of the Philippines Nursing Alumni Association International Convention & Alaskan Cruise The University of the Philippines Nursing Alumni Association International, Inc. (UPNAAI) will have its 40th convention on a cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas. The theme will be “In the New Millennium - UPNAAI at 40: Evolving and Emerging Nursing Roles.” On Aug. 1. it will be UPNAAI Volunteers Service Day in Seattle, then 2-9 will be a cruise from Seattle, Juneau, Skagway, Endicott Arm & Dawes, Victoria, and back to Seattle. Convention Fee $100 for Alumni in addition to cruise pricing. No convention charge for friends and family members. Contact Hours will be provided for the educational conference. For more information/to register and view cruise rates, please visit https://www.upnaai.com/.
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Travel, Trade & Consumer Expo in Carson, CA The second annual Travel, Trade & Consumer Expo is back on Saturday, August 3 and Sunday, August 4 at the SouthBay Pavilion in Carson, CA. The two-day event is Southern California’s largest B2B expo showcasing tourism, trade, and investment opportunities in the USA and Philippines. It will feature networking opportunities for business-to-business, business-to-government, and business-to-consumer. The event is powered by the Asian Journal and Balikbayan Magazine. For more information, please visit https://traveltradeconsumer.com/.
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
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† Nicomedes sarmieNto aguila City of Las Vegas June 2019 Senior Special Events
“Anything is Possible!” that is what nicomedes Sarmiento Aguila believed about life. Kind, selfless and willing to give of himself and his talent to others. he was a creative man, a perpetual inventor, who seemed to be able to find a solution to any difficulty confronting him. he knew how to create something from nothing and with “Macgyver” like imagination, precision and execution. nicomedes Sarmiento Aguila was born on September 4th, 1937 to parents Bruno and Maria Aguila in San Jose, Batangas Philippines. he attended Saint Joseph Academy high School in San Jose, Batangas and later earned a Degree in Doctor of Dental Medicine and Surgery from the University of the East, Manila. in 1942, his father volunteered to serve in the United States Armed Forces of the Far East and was sent to Corregidor island where he would ultimately lose his life defending against the ensuing invasion of the Japanese. this tragedy would thrust the then six year old boy into being both a father and brother to his two younger siblings, Macario and Melchor Aguila. he grew up in rural Barangay Lapu-Lapu, San Jose Batangas and helped his mother raise his brothers under the most difficult of circumstances often doing without. inquisitive about the world around him, he had a love of the outdoors and nature. Joining the Boy Scouts afforded him the opportunity to learn about fishing, camping, planting trees and creating things out of wood which he would use and enjoy throughout his life. Academically, he excelled in literature and sciences. he was inspired by his high School English teacher, Miss Luna to read the greats and often would be heard quoting the works of “george Elliott,” author of “Silas Marner.” his love of Science, Medicine and helping others was fostered by his lifelong mentor and friend Dr. Leonardo A. Ona. he would marry Rosita Deguia Abraham, a Midwife, while working as the Provincial health Officer for the Province of Batangas. they would travel together to the most rural of locations and help provide much
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needed health Care, Medicines and Supplies as well as participate in aid work during natural disasters. he was affectionately known as simply “Doc nick.” Wherever he went, he helped and cared for people. Migrating to the United States in 1970, like many others he saw opportunity and was willing to start over again. the relationships that he had built in the Philippines transcended into the US as well, providing the support needed to navigate this new world. Shortly after the birth of his son Richard, mother and child had to return to the Philippines due to his fatherin-law taking ill. While supporting his family he would endure bouts of loneliness and was even hospitalized due to a car accident that almost took his life. Although inequality and discrimination were commonplace, he broke barriers and focused on his knowledge and skills rather than the work environment. While working at the University of the Pacific, School of Dentistry in San Francisco, CA his innovation and work ethic were finally recognized, and he was offered a position as an instructor. this opportunity would lead to practicing once again as a Dentist and finding a new home in Sacramento, California. the year 1979 saw the blessing of the birth of his daughter Rowena and there first home at 1347 Bell Street. he worked tirelessly to make sure that his family had everything. Every day of his life he made it a point to be there for his family. through him his family saw the importance of building friendships, serving the community and giving to others. he was a proud member the international Lions Club and was always available to serve in whatever capacity was needed. truly he inspired others to give and to be kind wherever he went.
he retired in 2005 after 35 years in the United States and moved back to the Philippines. he often dreamt of practicing in the Philippines once again and at the young at heart age of 65 he was back in his element and taking care of a whole new generation of patients that greeted him every day with lines out the door of his clinic. he was honored by the Philippine Dental Association on his accomplishments and was often asked to be a guest speaker at there Conventions. truly he was the definition making the “impossible Dream,” Possible! in 2014, while on a Dental Mission for the Philippine Air Force, he had an accident which caused a subdural hematoma. When blood was needed for the operation, the Wing Commander of Villamor Air Base sent a truck of airman to the hospital to donate. three brain surgeries later and many months of physical therapy, he was back to practicing his craft. he was given an honorary commission as Captain in the Philippine Air Force Reserve for his dedication and service to his community. no matter where he was or what he was doing, his number one priority was always his family. Ready to drop everything to help in any way possible. no sacrifice was too great. the many friendships and bonds that he made has created a Legacy of Love, Selflessness, Kindness and giving to others, that will live on in everyone who’s life he touched. god truly blessed us with an Angel on earth and we are all thankful for every moment he was in our lives. he will be missed beyond comprehension and no words can truly describe the void we all feel. We are only consoled by the fact that he is again in the presence of god, his parents and brothers in heaven watching over each of us. We will always imagine you on the banks of the Sacramento River in Freeport where you were the happiest, in your spot looking out on the water, waiting for the striped bass to bite while sharing with us your stories. he is survived by his loving wife, children and grandchildren.
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Las Vegas residents invited to celebrations, luncheons and activities at city centers
thE city of Las Vegas active adult and senior centers offer exercise, fitness, craft, arts, dance, music and computer classes; cards; games; discussion and social groups; luncheons; sports; and special events Monday through Friday to residents age 50 and better. Many of these activities contribute to wellness and a healthy lifestyle. A listing of classes and activities is published in the Beyond the neon Leisure guide, available online at www. lasvegasParksandRec.com and in the centers. All activities are subject to change. Most activities require $10 annual membership in city of Las Vegas Active Adult/Senior Citizen Programs, available at all senior and active adult centers. Active adults ages 50+ can subscribe here to receive a monthly email about upcoming events and activities, or text LV SEniORS to 468-311. Las Vegas Community Healing Garden Day Trip (ages 50+) Wednesday, June 5, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Cost: $5 for transportation.
garden admission is free. Doolittle Senior Center, 1930 n. J St., 702-229-6125. the garden features a wall of remembrance, a grove of trees, shrubs, flowers, walkways of pavers and benches. Bring money for lunch. Space is limited! Advance registration required; call 702229-6125 for information and registration. Stick to Your Ribs Breakfast (ages 50+) Friday, June 7, 9:30 a.m. Cost: $5. Advance registration required by June 5. Lieburn Senior Center; 6230 garwood Ave., 702-229-1600. Enjoy delicious biscuits and gravy with coffee, juice and fruit. Call 702-229-1600 for information and registration. Oscar the grouch Luncheon (ages 50+) Friday, June 7, 11:30 a.m. Cost: $5 per person. Derfelt Senior Center in Lorenzi Park, 3343 W. Washington Ave., 702-229-6601. Enjoy this “Oscar the grouch” themed luncheon. Advance reg-
istration required. Call 702-2296601 for information and registration. Crafter Corner-Clay Pot Wind Chimes (ages 50+) tuesday, June 11, 1 to 3 p.m. Cost: $6 per person; must have city of Las Vegas senior programs membership. East Las Vegas Community Center, 250 n. Eastern Ave., 702229-1515. Make your own wind chimes with the versatile clay pot! All supplies included. Registration is open until full or June 11. Call 702-229-1515 for registration and information. Happy Father’s Day & Juneteenth Celebration (ages 50+) thursday, June 13, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost: $7. Advance registration required by June 10. Doolittle Senior Center, 1930 n. J St., 702-229-6125. take time out to show appreciation for fathers. Enjoy an afternoon of good food and great fun. Call 702-229-6125 for information PAGE 14
City of Las Vegas June 2019 Cultural Arts Calendar of Events SUMMER Class Registration available through June 22 for sixweek session June 12-July 27. the city of Las Vegas offers fine arts classes at several locations that are designed to mold the next generation of artists in a guided, dynamic and studio-style program tailored to the needs of each student. these openenrollment classes encourage exploration while creating the opportunity for each student to experience a diverse performing and visual arts education. Classes are available for all ages and levels of experience in dance, music, theatre, visual and cultural arts. to register, or for more information, visit online or call 702-229-ARtS (2787). Charleston Heights Arts Center Class Registration (ages 6-adult) Charleston heights Arts Center, 800 S. Brush St. Courses offered include Adult Drama and improvisation, Visual Arts, Music theory, group guitar and private lessons in piano/voice/ guitar by appointment. West Las Vegas Arts Center
Class Registration (ages 2-adult) West Las Vegas Arts Center, 947 W. Lake Mead Blvd. Classes offered include African Dance, African Drum, Ballet, Street Funk, hip-hop, Audio Recording/Engineering, Kemetic yoga and Chess. Rainbow Company Youth Theatre’s Season Celebration Party (all ages) Saturday, June 1, 3 p.m. Free and open to the public. Charleston heights Arts Center, 800 S. Brush St. Join us for a celebration of Rainbow Company youth theatre’s season as we say goodbye to the 2018-2019 and ring in the new 2019-2020 season. Refreshments will be provided. For information, visit www.ArtsLasVegas.org or call 702-229-ARtS (2787). Ethnic Express international Folk Dancing (ages 8+) Wednesdays, June 5, 12, 19 and 26; 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. Cost: $4 per person per week at the door. Charleston heights Arts Center, 800 S. Brush St., 702-229-ARtS (2787).
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have an evening of fun learning international dance styles, including Arabic, Armenian, Bulgarian, Chinese, greek, israeli, Macedonian, Russian, Serbian and turkish folk dances. no need to bring a partner. Dances co-presented with the city of Las Vegas. For more information, call 702-732-4871 or go online to www.ethnicexpresslasvegas.org. DjangoVegas! Jazz Festival (all ages) Saturday, June 15, 4 to 10 p.m. tickets: $25 (plus tax/fees). historic Fifth Street School, 401 S. Fourth St. this annual celebration of the music of Django Reinhardt and other gypsy jazz musicians past and present features hot Club of Las Vegas, the Lost Fingers, and jazz sensation Cyrille Aimee, who the new york times calls “a rising star in the galaxy of jazz singers.” Local musicians will jam 4-6 p.m.; this session will be open to anyone who wishes to jam with other jazz lovers. the performance starts at 6 p.m.; refreshments will be availPAGE 14
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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • MAy 9-15, 2019
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Best of both worlds: Single Fil-Ams moms on managing family and business By Christina M. Oriel / AJPress IT is often said that running your own business is like raising another child. Entrepreneurship is already a massive undertaking, and for some mothers, there’s an extra layer of being a single parent on top of all these responsibilities. Juggling multiple roles, however, hasn’t detracted this group of mompreneurs from recognizing their expertise and creating brands, while running their households and attending to their children’s needs. “Being a single mom is not a handicap. In fact, that status comes with an inbuilt capacity for business success. Operating on a budget; Multitasking; Delegation; Management; and Problem-solving are both general skills for a successful mother and a successful entrepreneur,” writes success coach Toby Nwazor in the Huffington Post. In time for Mother’s Day this weekend, the Asian Journal spoke to three Filipina Americans about how they simultaneously manage these 24/7 roles as business owners and single parents. Play on your strengths For Caroline Kostiuk, who has gained a sizable following with photos of her cake decorations and family table spreads under online persona Caroline Adobo, baking has been a life-long hobby. What started off as baking birthday cakes for close family and friends turned into people placing orders. She now has a full-fledged enterprise where she makes custom cakes for any occasion and does special pop-up events. “My husband, who passed away 20 months ago, was always very supportive of my cake baking ventures and he was the first to cheer me on, especially when I would have cake pop-ups and events,” Kostiuk said. “Now that I am a solo parent, I learn every day about myself: my capabilities and strengths, knowing your limits or when to ask for help. I think that’s essential for being an entrepreneur.” Charina Vergara can recall when her entrepreneurial drive kicked in at an early age — from selling snacks to classmates to making her first million at 23 as an account executive for a travel agency. When she separated from her husband and moved to the U.S. with her two daughters in tow, she worked in sales and marketing for a media company and then a grocery chain, before being let go last summer. This moment led Vergara to make a transition as a real estate agent and then venture on her to open Titas of Manila restaurant in West Covina, California earlier this year. “After I was laid off, from July to December of last year, I just relaxed and took a much-needed break because I had been working since I was 17…Then I started baking and cooking for fun, which included developing a recipe for crinkles I was really proud of,” Vergara said. “At the same time, I was going back to real estate because I am a licensed realtor and was asked to find a tenant to occupy this vacant space in West Covina, even for a short period…Long story short, my sister told me to get it, which was around December 29 and we
closed the deal on December 31. I publicly posted that I took over the restaurant in January. We are in an exciting time wherein the Filipino food movement is gaining traction.” Own your single mom status While Fiona Hilario was a human resources specialist at the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, she and her siblings thought of starting a side venture centered around body waxing services Charina Vergara (middle) with her daughters Missy using natural products, which and Isabella working at their Filipino street food stand Charina Vergara recently opened Tita’s of Manila, a Filipino became known as Lay Bare. at 626 Night Market. comfort food restaurant in West Covina, California. Caroline Kostiuk and her sons Luri, Andre and Evan Today, Lay Bare has 50 comDaily check-ins are simple ways cake flavor combinations. It usuHilario added that motherAt Kostiuk’s household, spendpany-owned and 74 franchised locations across the Philippines. ing time together, especially dur- daughter activities at least once to keep constantly up-to-date with ally starts out as their birthday cake and becomes part of my Hilario and her 16-year-old daugh- ing dinnertime, has been a central a week and having open commu- her daughters, Vergara said. “Every chance I get, I always cake menu.” ter Noelle moved to Southern part of her family. Her sons are nication have helped strengthen For Hilario, her daughter Noelle California in 2012, where Hilario now 19, 17 and 15 years old and their relationship as her daughter say ‘I love you’ to my kids. I get my strength from my girls. They fuel was still a toddler during the early operates one location in Studio have grown up with an emphasis has gotten older. “We’re inseparable and have me and keep me going because days of Lay Bare and would have City and is overall president and on being independent and cona great relationship…[because] everything I’m doing right now is to tag along while she handed out managing member of the fran- tributing to the household. “They knew from an early age my daughter and I have spent for them,” Vergara said. fliers and promoted the business. chising side of the business. “America is a great place to live Now that Noelle is 16, Hilario Hilario, who had her daughter that there are rules set at home: so much time together. With her at 28, said that being a single school and piano practice before being an only child and me as a so you have to make the most out has entrusted her daughter with administrative and assistant work mom shouldn’t be an obstacle video games, chores like washing single parent, we kind of grew up of what you have here.” Make kids involved in busi- for the Studio City salon. to success. “One of the reasons dishes and taking out trash that together. We have an open rela“I feel that she’s a very reliable I moved to the U.S. was because every family members contribute tionship and she tells me anything. ness The three mompreneurs shared assistant and she gets what I mean there was still a stigma around to,” she said. “We also make I’m lucky that she enjoys being being a single parent back home sure to have our meals together with me. I’m not a strict parent that their children have naturally the first time I say it because she’s in the Philippines,” she said. without outside distractions every and would rather lead by example. gravitated and voluntarily take had the exposure since she was “People here admire single moth- single day. I think that helps us I tell her the consequences of part in their businesses after little,” Hilario said. “She’s very active and actually her goal after ers instead of being looked down connect as a family. When I have actions but I leave her to make school or during school breaks. Kostiuk’s three sons help out college is to be able to take over on and treated like second-class longer work hours, we plan to her own decisions. I’m not a hecitizens. The first step is getting have at least one meal together licopter parent and won’t hover by “preparing baking equipment, and bring Lay Bare to greater out of that thinking that single like breakfast before I head to over her. I know that she’s very measuring ingredients and most heights by branching out of the of all they come up with great responsible and mature.” work or a late dinner after.” moms are at a disadvantage.” PAGE 14 She added, “I actually feel that if I were married, I wouldn’t have been an entrepreneur and would have probably prioritized being a stay-at-home parent. Being by myself made me more ambitious to achieve something greater to make sure my daughter surpasses everything I have done myself.” Vergara who recently came back to working for herself said that it’s easy to dwell in the ‘what ifs’ and the past. “I was already enjoying entrepreneurial life, but it was a setback because my marriage failed,” she said. “But at the end of the day, I believe it was not a failure — it was actually a set-up for a comeback. I have come full circle after 12 years.” “People ask why I don’t date. I’m in love with my kids and my family. I know what I want and I have goals and I am trying to really live up to my dreams,” she added. Take charge of your schedule and put a system in place For Hilario, prioritizing and dividing tasks is key to running things as smooth as possible. “Our business is very simple and doesn’t really require a lot of thinking. It’s more customer service and I can delegate most of the tasks,” she said. “There would be weeks where I would go without a single day off but I think now it’s a matter of proper planning.” Vergara shared, “Every day starts with bringing my daughter to school and going to the restaurant once rush hour settles down. When you work here, time is really fast and we have a slow period in the early afternoon from 2 to 4 p.m. and that’s when I do my realtor stuff. I used to work on my computer when I got home but now I don’t. I shut down everything…and that’s when I get to chat with my daughter about our day. I’m also more conscious about getting seven to eight hours of sleep daily.” Focus on family relationships
Fiona Hilario, president and managing member of Lay Bare Franchising — a waxing salon that originated in the Philippines — and her daughter Noelle.
Caroline Kostiuk, popularly known as Caroline Adobo Cakes, makes made-to-order cakes, such as halo-halo tres leches and ube flan.
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City of Las Vegas June 2019 Senior Special Events Liza Soberano’s advice for the next Darna: ‘Give heart and soul’ PAGE 12
and registration. Luau Luncheon (ages 50+) Thursday, June 13, 11:30 a.m. Cost: $6 per person; must have senior programs membership. East Las Vegas Community Center, 250 N. Eastern Ave., 702229-1515. Enjoy an authentic Hawaiian lunch with fun and entertainment. Advance registration required by June 11; call 702-229-1515 for information and reservations. Bingo (ages 50+) Wednesday, June 19, 10 a.m. Cost: $5 per person. Advance registration required. Derfelt Senior Center in Lorenzi Park, 3343 W. Washington Ave., 702-229-6601. Enjoy a light lunch after Bingo! Call 702-229-6601 for information and registration. Red, White and Blue Luncheon (ages 50+) Wednesday, June 19, 11:30
a.m. Cost: $8 per person. Advance registration required. Centennial Hills Active Adult Center, 6601 N. Buffalo Drive, 702-229-1702. Call 702-229-1702 for information and registration. 16th Annual Senior Idol Showcase (all ages) Thursday, June 20, 3 p.m. Tickets: $5 per person. Charleston Heights Arts Center, 800 S. Brush St. Enjoy a variety show by amateur and professional performers ages 50+. Showcase tickets sell out every year for the single performance at the Charleston Heights Arts Center. Tickets are on sale at all city of Las Vegas senior centers until sold out. For more information, contact Alice Jarvis at 702-229-6453. Taco Bar Luncheon (ages 50+) Friday, June 21, 11:30 a.m.
Cost: $6. Lieburn Senior Center; 6230 Garwood Ave., 702-229-1600. Enjoy a taco bar with all the fixin’s, dessert, juice and coffee. Call 702-229-1600 for information and registration. Registration required by June 19. Mt. Charleston Day Trip (ages 50+) Thursday, June 27, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: $7 per person; must have city of Las Vegas senior programs membership. East Las Vegas Community Center, 250 N. Eastern Ave., 702229-1515. Travel to Mt. Charleston to explore and enjoy a day out of the heat. Bring a lunch for a picnic along the way. Call 702229-1515 for registration and information. Registration is open until full or June 11. Call 702229-1515 for registration and information.
Best of both worlds: Single Fil-Ams moms... PAGE 13 United States and the Philippines. She’s very excited about running the business.” Similar to her own upbringing, Vergara instilled early on that her daughters would have to work if they wanted to buy something. “Being a single mom, the No. 1 hurdle is the financial aspect. I’ve trained them that you have to earn your keep,” she said. Last summer, when she had a Filipino street food-inspired stall at 626 Night Market, she employed her daughters, now 19 and 12 years old, to handle the sales and was surprised to observe their work ethic and appreciation for putting in the effort toward their financial goals. Allow yourself to take a break There’s constant talk about how to achieve this idea of work-life balance, which many entrepreneurs have their own definitions of. While it may not be feasible to take frequent vacations, finding ways to reset and have some solo time on a daily basis is important as running both a company and household can take its toll. “I try to make time for myself any chance I get! May it be a simple matcha latte at a cafe or enjoying a treat with my sons. Also, cake-making for me is very therapeutic: the measuring and
mixing put me in a calm zone while the decorating part lets me be more creative. So being around cakes in a way is time for myself,” Kostiuk said. Recognize your support system The three mompreneurs acknowledge that it takes a village to raise a family on top of the demands of the business. Fortunately, other family members, whether their own mothers or sisters, have helped these moms along the way. “When we first moved to the U.S., we lived with my sister so that was a big plus and up to now, my sister helps out with picking my daughter up. Her school doubled up as a daycare so I had the opportunity to leave her until 6 p.m,” Hilario said. “But once she turned 13 and it was legal to leave her, I started leaving her at home so that worked out for us and that taught her how to become very independent and responsible. That’s what we’ve done for the past seven years.” “Vergara credits her mom, sister and brother-in-law for stepping into the responsibilities as well. My brother-in-law is retired and I owe half of it to him because he stood up as a physically present father to my kids. He is there emotionally and physically by driving and picking them up from
AS the search continues for the next Darna, Liza Soberano left a message for the one who will get the title of the iconic superheroine. In a Facebook post by Soberano’s talent manager Ogie Diaz last Saturday, May 4, the comedian relayed Soberano’s message for the next Darna, saying she has “moved on” after withdrawing from the project due to health complications. “Ang sabi ni Liza sa akin, ‘Kung new face yan, Tito Ogs, galingan niya talaga, dahil sobrang [ang laking] opportunity ng Darna sa kanya,” Diaz said. The “Dolce Amor” actress supposedly advised the next Darna to “give her heart and soul to the project,” including training and
acting. She also emphasized the importance of being humble, saying, “And I know for sure, this movie will make her. Wag lang ikalaki ng ulo niya because hindi siya nag-start from bottom. Big break agad. Kaya remain humble. Diaz also voiced his opinion on the next Darna, saying it would be better if she is a new face as it would be “fresh and exciting.” He also revealed that a number of actresses wanted to play the role, including Julia Barretto and certain actresses with the initials “K” and “M,” who he did not name. The comedian also joined the conversation about celebrity politicians, saying, “Ang dami na masyado.” (Casey Eridio/Inquirer. Liza Soberano net) Photo from Instagram/@lizasoberano
Is Pia Wurtzbach going to play Darna or Valentina?
FOLLOWING reports that Pia Wurtzbach is willing to audition and give everything to bag the school,” she noted. “My mom highly sought after Darna role, prepares meals for my daughter the actress-beauty queen admitted Missy still. All the support that that she was unable to audition for I could ever think of, they are it when auditions were opened to within reach. That is why I am the public last weekend in ABSthriving and flourishing because CBN. “No, I didn’t audition because my wings are fully spread. I know I can always count on their support I was traveling when I found out that they were doing the auditions, financially as well.” Best advice for other single but we’ll see what happens,” Miss moms and mompreneurs “Best advice I’ve received as a parent is to focus on the positive, relax and take it one day at a time. PAGE 12 I find that also applies to having a able for purchase. Parking will be business,” Kostiuk said. For Hilario, she said, “What I’ve available in the garage between learned is that being a single mom Third and Fourth streets at Clark strengthens your ‘why.’ Your why Avenue. For tickets and informahas to be bigger than your fears. tion, visit www.ArtsLasVegas.org First focus on your kids and find a or call 702-229-ARTS (2787). USA Ballroom Dance (ages passion that you think will change the world and everything will flow 13+) Saturday, June 15, 7 to 10:30 in from there.” Vergara shared that “Keep p.m. Dance lesson at 7:30 p.m. Cost: $5 for members, $10 for praying, pray unceasingly…and with all your heart. We may not non-members at the door. Charleston Heights Arts Center, have a partner or a husband but God is with us. He is directing all 800 S. Brush St., 702-229-ARTS our ways. Every good gift comes (2787).The dance is co-presented from Him. Make Him first place by the city of Las Vegas and USA Dance Las Vegas Chapter #4038, and you will go places.” “If they have it in their heart, it a local chapter of the national nonis only a matter of time before they profit volunteer organization dedican achieve it. Just be patient—try cated to the promotion of ballroom and try and try. Never be afraid to dancing. For more information, fail because you learn more from call 702-260-0772 or go online to your failures. Always put passion, www.usadancelasvegas.com. 16th Annual Senior Idol Showexcitement, fun and love to it,” she case (all ages) added. Thursday, June 20, 3 p.m. Tickets: $5 per person. Charleston Heights Arts Center, 800 S. Brush St., 702-229-ARTS (2787). Enjoy a variety show by amateur and professional performers ages 50+. Showcase tickets sell out every year for the single performance at the Charleston Heights Arts Center. Tickets are on sale at all city of Las Vegas senior centers until sold out. For more information, call 702-2296454. The Poets’ Corner (ages 17+) Hosted by LaBlaque. Friday, June 21, 7:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. West Las Vegas Arts Center, 947 W. Lake Mead Blvd. Founded at the West Las Vegas Arts Center in 1997, The Poets’ Corner premiered as the first established poetry program in Las Vegas. This monthly forum event, hosted by LaBlaque Williams, is for established poets and open-mic participants and features the best local talent. Due to potential subject matter, we strongly advise participants be age 17 or older. For information, visit www.ArtsLasVegas.org or call 702-229-ARTS (2787). New Exhibitions The Wide View Co-presented with Opportunity Village. June 6-Aug. 31, hours noon-5 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays. Exhibition Reception: Thursday, June 6, 5 to 7 p.m. Free and open to the public. Mayor’s Gallery, Historic Fifth Street School, 401 S. Fourth St. This exhibition will display visual work in different media created in different settings by a majority of female artists participating in classes and workshops at Opportunity Village’s fine arts program. As the title suggests, the concept of this show focuses on the wide (as opposite to narrow) view of how artists in the program contemplate the natural world, from observation to imagination and abstraction. Observe how these viewing angles are nonlinear or hierarchic, and multifaceted, layered across, non-vertically. The exhibition’s positive and progressive message is that cultural barriers can be overcome. The focus is on ability, rather than on barrier-building disability, for program participants at Opportunity Village. A sense of artistic freedom can be discovered in three multi-media showcases, varying from the grand scheme of things to the specific. The exhibition is a survey spanning works from 2012-2019. For information, visit www.ArtsLasVegas.org or call 702-229-ARTS (2787).
Universe 2015 told the press. Although unable to audition last weekend, Pia professed she still wants to audition for the role. “I feel that this is everybody’s dream role and I feel that everybody would jump at the opportunity to try for Darna so, why not?” When Philstar.com asked Pia to give a sample to shout “Darna,” the beauty queen laughingly declined.
“No! Next time na lang!” she avowed. But besides Darna, is Pia willing to trade her Cream Silk-conditioned locks for Valentina’s snakes? “Whatever that they decide to give me, you know, and whatever they see me fit, I’ll take it!” For now, the beauty queen is busy shooting a dark comedy film with Vhong Navarro. (Philstar. com)
City of Las Vegas June 2019 Cultural Arts Calendar of Events Remnant Featuring the photography of Jason Tannen. June 26-Sept. 28, hours Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Artist Reception: Wednesday, June 26, 5 to 7 p.m. Free and open to the public. Charleston Heights Arts Center, 800 S. Brush St. Jason Tannen is a photographer, gallery curator, and educator. Since 1978, his photography has explored the urban landscape, integrating photography with video, installation, and time-based digital media. Tannen has exhibited his photographs and video projects widely, in the United States and internationally. This exhibition explores the urban environment and his interest in tracing urban erosion and obsolescence, as seen in storefront displays and the topography of signs, symbols and human representation. For information, visit www.ArtsLasVegas.org or call 702-229-ARTS (2787). Closing Exhibitions Salon des Refusés Through June 22, hours Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m.6 p.m. Free and open to the public. Charleston Heights Arts Center Gallery, 800 S. Brush St. Enjoy this exhibition by artists age 50 and better of artworks that were submitted for Celebrating Life! 2019 but not selected for the main exhibition. For information, visit www.ArtsLasVegas.org or call 702-229-ARTS (2787). Hearts4Vegas Touring Exhibition Through June 17, hours Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Friday, weekends and holidays. Free and open to the public. Development Services Center, 333 N. Rancho Drive, 702-2296251. A traveling exhibition of items sent to the city from all over the world expressing love, support and healing for everyone in Las Vegas affected by the tragic events of Oct. 1. For information, visit www.ArtsLasVegas.org or call 702-229-ARTS (2787). Current Exhibitions Overcast: A Multi-Media Art Exhibition Featuring the artwork of Brett Bolton. May 10-Aug. 9, hours TuesdayFriday, 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Free and open to the public. Charleston Heights Arts Center Lobby, 800 S. Brush St. Overcast is a multi-media interactive projection installation in which participants create generative landscapes of life by spreading projected rainfall onto a dry and barren desert valley. This project explores the endless possibilities that human influence can have to transform our desert valley once given the much needed (and often scarce) supply of water needed to produce and sustain life. For information, visit www. ArtsLasVegas.org or call 702-229ARTS (2787). Celebrating Life! 2019 Exhibition Through July 13; hours Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Free and open to the public. Charleston Heights Arts Center Ballroom, 800 S. Brush St. Enjoy this exhibition of artwork selected for the 2019 exhibition by juror Ted Decker. For information, visit www.ArtsLasVegas.org or call 702-229-ARTS (2787). “Exploring the Twisted Nature of All Things… Fiber” Exhibition
Through July 11; hours 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; closed Fridays, weekends and holidays. Free and open to the public. City Hall Chamber Gallery, 495 S. Main St., second floor This exhibition celebrates fiber arts and demonstrates the aesthetic and conceptual qualities of using various fiber media in making art. Fiber arts is currently a popular medium and allows artists to explore and present contemporary concepts related to our culture and society in a texturally subtle way. The artwork created for this exhibition communicates that any material can be used to make art that is extremely thoughtful and filled with excitement. The exhibit features the artwork of Margaret Abramshe (St. George, Utah), Megan Berner (Reno, Nevada), Alison Bessesdotter (Scotch Plains, New Jersey), Judy Book (Prescott, Arizona), Shannon Conley (Moore, Oklahoma), Rosanne Giacomini (Las Vegas, Nevada), Holly Lay (Las Vegas, Nevada), Ginny Mateen (Las Vegas, Nevada), Yasmine Redding (Las Vegas, Nevada), Donna Rice (Bend, Oregon), Janett Rice (Las Vegas, Nevada), Aldema Ridge (Las Vegas, Nevada), Gail Seidner (Las Vegas, Nevada), and Patty Swygert (Earlysville, Virginia). For information, visit www.ArtsLasVegas.org or call 702-229-ARTS (2787). Reverence for the Irrelevant Exhibition Through Aug. 1; hours 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; closed Fridays, weekends and holidays. Free and open to the public. City Hall Grand Gallery, 495 S. Main St., first floor. This exhibition displays the beauty in irrelevant objects by reconfiguring them into sculptural art. For information, visit www. ArtsLasVegas.org or call 702-229ARTS (2787). Windows on First: “There Is Nothing I Can Do Without You” Featuring the Artwork of Shan Michael Evans. Through Oct. 1, available to view at all times. Open to the public on First Street; no admission fee. Las Vegas City Hall, Windows on First, 495 S. Main St., along First Street. This living and evolving public art exhibition features themes of dependency, growth, change and circumstance experienced by the Las Vegas Valley and the world around us. For information, visit www.ArtsLasVegas.org or call 702-229-ARTS (2787). First Street Art Trail Aerial Gallery Banner Artwork Exhibition Through March 2, 2020. Vinyl banners are available to view at all times on First Street from Bridger to Boulder avenues. The Aerial Gallery along the First Street Art Trail is the newest rendition of this long-running banner artwork program. Artworks by Natalie Delgado, Shan Michael Evans, Chase McCurdy, Austine Wood Comarow, Diane Bush, Jeff Fulmer, Brian Martinez and Joseph Watson are featured on light poles spanning eight blocks from Bridger to Boulder avenues. Other artworks along the trail include the Windows on First temporary public art installations, Mary Hill’s “Cycled Musings” bike racks, and Jesse Smigel’s “Snowball in Vegas” cat sculpture. Visitors are invited to bike and walk the trail to explore and discover. For information, visit www.ArtsLasVegas.org or call 702-229-ARTS (2787).
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May 9-15, 2019 • LaS VEGaS aSIaN JOURNaL
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