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Palace: No reason yet to lift martial law in Mindanao by Jhoanna

Ballaran Inquirer.net

there is no need yet to lift martial law in mindanao, malacañang said Wednesday, may 23, a year after Islamic state-inspired fighters stormed marawi City. Presidential spokesperson harry roque said as long as martial law is needed in the region, the declaration will not be lifted. “Wala pong gusto na magkaroon ng (Nobody wants) martial law beyond the necessity of

having martial law. so the Palace would like to assure the public the moment the need for martial law ceases, it will be lifted,” roque said in a video statement. “But certainly one year after the siege, the time to lift martial law is not yet here. so it will be lifted as long as there is no need for martial law,” he added. roque, however, did not give a timeline or conditions that would prompt the lifting of the declaration. the spokesperson issued the statement in response to Kabataan rep. sarah elago’s call

USA

DATELINE Palace: PH renews ties with US in Hawaii meeting from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

the Philippines is not abandoning its traditional alliance with the United states, malacañang said on monday, may 21. Leading the filipino delegation was executive secretary salvador medialdea, who met U.s. Admiral harry harris Jr., chief of the U.s. Pacific Command (Pacom), in honolulu, hawaii on friday, may 18. malacañang said the meeting between Philippine officials and the United states Pacific Command (PACom) chief was meant to reassure that the Philippines has not abandoned its ties with the U.s. Apart from medialdea, foreign secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, Defense secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Interior and Local Government officer-in-charge eduardo Año, Philippine Ambassador to the United states Jose manuel romualdez and Philippine Permanent representative to the United Nations

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Supreme Court says employers can now force arbitration

A 5-4 U.s. supreme Court decision reached monday, may 21 made it so that businesses can now forbid their workers from banding together in class action lawsuits, and instead require individual arbitration. this comes despite roughly 25 million American workers not having union protections. Justice Neil Gorsuch, in writing for the conservative majority, said that the decision was determined by the 1925 federal Arbitration Act which the his supporting justices agreed trumped the National Labor relations Act (NLrA) — another federal law that opponents stood by. the NLrA makes it illegal for employers to enforce contracts that deny employees their right to collective action. Gorsuch argued that if workers were able to band together, “the virtues Congress originally saw in arbitration, its speed and simplicity and inexpensiveness, would be

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for President rodrigo Duterte to end martial law in mindanao following reports of human-rights violations in the region. on may 23 last year, a firefight started to erupt between government forces and Isis-inspired maute fighters, who tried to take over marawi City, prompting Duterte to declare martial law in the region. the attack, later on, led to a five-month-long battle, reducing the city into shambles. the Liberal Party (LP) of the Philippines on tuesday, may 22,

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RAID SIMULATION. President Rodrigo Duterte strikes his signature pose with the personnel of the Naval Special Operations Group and the Marine Special Operations Group after they conducted a raid simulation before President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during the Philippine Navy’s 120th anniversary at the Coconut Palace of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex in Roxas Boulevard, Manila on Tuesday, May 22 Joining the president are Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Carlito Galvez Jr., House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Philippine Navy Commander Vice Admiral Robert Empredad and Philippine Army Commander Lieutenant General Rolando Bautista. Malacañang photo by Rey Baniquet

A year after Marawi siege, gov’t uncertain when rehabilitation will start by audrey

Morallo Philstar.com

mANILA — A year after marawi City was decimated by a five-month battle, the government is yet to start the rehabilitation of the Islamic city, with officials eyeing the middle of next month as the start of the rebuilding process. According to felix Castro, task force Bagon marawi field office manager, it might take between 12 to 18 more months of debris clearing and “horizontal preparations” before residents will be allowed to rebuild their property in the war-ravaged city. horizontal preparations include the laying This photo taken on March 28, 2018 shows an aerial shot of a mosque amidst flattened of sewage networks, telecommunications and houses in Marawi City, in southern island of Mindanao, after five months of house-to-house electricity lines and road expansion. fighting between troops and jihadists loyal to the Islamic State group that killed nearly 1,200. Castro however admitted that the middle of

June is only a target. When asked if this is already realistic considering that it’s been a year since the siege struck, Castro said, “No, we based it on plans. Because plans are made given the situation, the data available, right?” Castro said the government has only identified a proponent for the rehabilitation, not a developer, as negotiations are still ongoing and the final plan is still being threshed out. he said that input from stakeholders will be considered in crafting the final plan, which would be subject to negotiations with the government. only after agreement has been reached will the government would conduct a swiss challenge, he said. Castro said that the process is taking this

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ManilaTimes.net photo by Merlyn Manos

PH gov’t concerned over Chinese A conversation with Sen. Cortez Masto bomber planes in South China Sea on her priorities in Washington by rae

ann Varona AJPress

the Philippines has “serious concern” over the Chinese bomber planes that landed on an island along the disputed south China sea, said the country’s presidential spokesman. he added that the Philippines’ foreign ministry had taken “appropriate diplomatic action” but did not give specifics. the statements come after the Chinese air force landed longA Chinese H-6K long range bomber flies over Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal range bombers on a south China in the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone after the UN Permanent Court of sea island for the first time last

and the importance of voting Interview by Christina

M. oriel /AJPress

It’s nearly been two years since senator Catherine Cortez masto (D-Nevada) was elected into office, making history as the first woman elected to represent Nevada and the first Latina in the senate. Back in 2016, CorArbitration trashed China’s 9-Dash Line claim. tez masto — who u PAGE A2 Screengrabbed from China’s State Council Information Office Twitter Page/Weibo.com previously served two terms as the state’s attorney general — told the Asian Journal that “it’s not my voice I’m taking to Washby ritChel Mendiola AJPress ington. It’s all of our voices to get someseNAtor Vicente sotto III bet h i n g d o n e .” s h e came the 29th senate President outlined some of the on monday, may 21, after senate key areas she would President Aquilino “Koko” Pibe taking on a fedmentel III stepped down. eral level, including Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada) sotto serves as the second AJPress file photo by Robert Maabagal family reunification, senate president of the 17th comprehensive imCongress, after 15 majority bloc migration reform, and affordable housing. senators last week agreed to In a recent interview with the Asian Journal, Cortez masto shares move for the change of senate what legislation and issues she’s prioritizing in the current senate leadership. session as well as why Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) Pimentel, who resigned on are a crucial voting bloc to pay attention to. early monday morning, may 21, SOTTO ASSUMES SENATE PRESIDENCY. Newly-elected Senate President Q: With May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, how said the “peaceful and willing Vicente “Tito” Sotto III (left) shakes the hand of former Senate President have you and your office been observing this month and partransfer of power in the senate” Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III Monday, May 21. Pimentel, who nominated Sotto ticularly how important is for Nevada and the whole nation to as his successor, said Sotto was dedicated to his work and the institution.

Sotto vows to be a ‘more vocal’ Senate chief

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Senate photo by Alex Nueva España

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may 24-30, 2018 • LaS VEGaS aSIaN JOURNaL

From The FronT Page

PH gov’t concerned over Chinese bomber... PAGE A1 week as part of what its officials said was a training exercise. Harry Roque, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s spokesman, said that the Philippines did not have independent verification on whether or not Chinese bombers were present in the South China Sea. “But we take note of the reports that appeared and we ex-

press our serious concerns anew on its impact to efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region,” Roque added during a media briefing at Malacañang Palace, Monday, May 21. “We view it with very serious concern,” he added. The Philippine’s Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it was watching the situation closely. “We are taking the appropriate

diplomatic action necessary to protect our claims and will continue to do so in the future,” the department said in a statement on the matter. The Pentagon criticized China’s move, describing it as “continued militarization” of island positions in the disputed area. “The United States remains committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Pentagon spokesman Colonel Christopher Logan told Reuters. “We have seen these same reports and China’s continued militarization of disputed features in the South China Sea only serves to raise tensions and destabilize the region,” he added. China maintained that it was part of a military routine, and told other countries not to overinterpret its moves. “We hope that relevant parties do not read too much into this,” said Lu Kang, foreign ministry spokesman of China. “The relevant exercise is just a regular exercise of the Chinese military. There is no need to over interpret it,” he said. Vietnam — also having claims to the area — added to the criticism. The recent flights “increase tensions, cause regional instabilities and are not good for maintaining a peaceful, stable and cooperative environment in the East Sea,” said Vietnam’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Le Thi Thu Hang, in a statement. The China H-6K bomber was reported to have landed on what was identified as Woody Island late last week — a location that the Washington-based Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative said would put all of South East Asia within the bomber’s range. Both the Philippines and China have for decades claimed ownership of almost all of the South China Sea. Roughly $3 trillion worth of goods is believed to pass through each year. Other countries also having claims to the area are Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Vietnam. China has already situated seven artificial islands in the region’s Spratly Islands to act as military outposts. In claiming ownership, China has said its outposts — like the recent bombers — are strictly for defense purposes.

CONFIRMATION. Senator Cynthia Villar, chair of the Constitutional commission and offices committee, and Representative Ronaldo Zamora (2nd left) preside over the deliberation on the nomination of Commission on Elections (Comelec) chairman Sheriff Manimbayan Abas (right) at the Senate on Wednesday (May 23, 2018). He was later confirmed by the Commission on Appointments on Wednesday, May 23. PNA photo by Avito Dalan

Palace: No reason yet to lift...

PAGE A1 urged the Duterte administration to lift the martial law decree imposed on Mindanao. “While the war is long over, the people of Marawi cannot start healing the wounds of the past with the continued implementation of martial law which allows warrantless arrest not only in Marawi but in the entire Mindanao,” the LP said in a statement. The party pointed out that there was “no rebellion in Mindanao that warranted the extension of the military rule.” The LP maintained that the threats of rebellion did not qualify as grounds for military rule. “Worse, rights group Amnesty International reported in November 2017 that human rights abuses were committed both by the Maute Group and some mem-

bers of the military even under the implementation of martial law which government claims would restore law and order,” the party said. The LP also said the government should “put their money where their mouth is,” urging them to focus more on providing 26,000 permanent shelters for Marawi citizens. Only 1,000 temporary shelters have been built for the affected communities so far, the party claimed. Malacañang, however, expressed satisfaction with the rehabilitation efforts toward Marawi City, saying majority of the residents were back in the war-torn city. Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque Jr. said that “the government was ahead in the provision

of temporary and permanent shelters for Marawi residents displaced by fighting between the military and local terrorists.” “The good news is, as far as the residents are concerned, 70 percent of the residents have gone back to their homes…That is under a year’s time. We are even ahead of schedule in terms of rebuilding of the communities,” he said. The government is aiming to build 6,400 temporary shelters and 2,500 permanent shelters to be given to the poorest and most conflict-affected Marawi residents. Col. Romeo Brawner Jr., deputy commander for Joint Task Force Ranao, said that “70 percent of the whole city had ‘returned to normal.’” (With reports from Ritchel Mendiola AJPress)

A year after Marawi siege, gov’t uncertain...

PAGE A1 long because they didn’t want to produce a weak plan and disregard the inputs of the affected communities. Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao Assemblyman Zia Alonto Adiong said that an open communication line between the government and the affected communities is important to ensure that people’s frustrations are not used to mount another armed rebellion. “One day in an evacuation center is already too long for someone who have lost everything. So somewhere along the line, there PAGE A4 has to be an open communication between the Task Force, the LGUs and the people,” he said. On May 23 last year, militants

from the Maute group tried to take over Marawi City and convert it to the capital of the Islamic State group’s province in Southeast Asia. The battle for the control of the city lasted for five months, destroying much of its center and displacing more than 360,000 residents from Marawi and neighboring towns. The National Economic Development Authority said that more than P50 billion will be needed to rebuild the city, a much lower figure than the estimate given by Eduardo Del Rosario, the chairman of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council. Castro said that the government would not be touching private property during the rehabilita-

tion of Marawi City as the efforts would only involve government infrastructure. He said that property of residents would be touched only during road widening but stressed that this would be done with their permission and with compensation. “We will not demolish private properties without their request. They have to inform us that they want their properties to be included in the debris clearing,” Castro said. He said that residents would be transferred in the next few months to temporary shelters and explained that residents could not yet return to the city because developers will need to clear the debris first. n

Palace: PH renews ties with US in... PAGE A1 Teodoro Locsin Jr. joined the meeting. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the two allied countries renewed their commitment to strengthen ties. “The Philippines and the United States have reaffirmed their resolve to bolster their enduring alliance anchored on common values and interest, historic ties, and the Mutual Defense Treaty, in high-level discussions in Honolulu,” the DFA said in a statement. “The Philippine delegation had a very substantive exchange with Admiral Harris on regional challenges and both sides agreed that the alliance remains consequential to the preservation of regional stability and development,” it added. The meeting came on the same day China deployed long-range bombers in the disputed South

China Sea (West Philippine Sea), but Presidential spokesman Harry Roque Jr. said the meeting was not intended to discuss the situation in the disputed region. “Well I can only surmise that the visit is intended to reassure the United States that, while we are pursuing an independent foreign policy, we have not actually – we have not abandoned our traditional ally, the United States,” Roque said in a Palace briefing. “That is probably to reassure that we value the continued friendship, and the security cooperation that we have had with the United States through the years,” he added. Since assuming the presidency, President Rodrigo Duterte has been seeking closer ties to China and Russia while unleashing several tirades against the U.S. He once threatened to sever

ties with the superpower and end joint military training for its criticisms of his war on drugs. Relations between Manila and Washington only eased when Donald Trump assumed the U.S. presidency in November 2016. When Duterte was asked if the Philippines could employ its alliance with the U.S. to address the situation in the West Philippine Sea, he answered, “In the absence of an actual attack, the Mutual Defense Treaty [between Washington and Manila] is inapplicable.” “It’s because what we need there is an actual armed attack on the Philippine territory or any of the islands. The military buildup by China cannot be the basis,” he said. Duterte has maintained a soft stance on the Philippines’ maritime dispute with China since assuming office in 2016. n

Supreme Court says employers can now... PAGE A1 short away and arbitration would wind up looking like the litigation it was mean to displace. “The policy may be debatable, but the law is clear: Congress has instructed that arbitration agreements like those before us must be enforced as written,” wrote Gorsuch. “While Congress is of course always free to amend this judgement, we see nothing suggesting it did so in the NLRA — much less that it manifested a clear intention to displace the Arbitration Act. Because we can easily read Congress’s statutes to work in harmony, that is where our duty lies,” he added. The decision consolidated three cases involving tens of thousands of nonunion employees who claimed they were being underpaid by their employers — Ernst & Young, LLP, Murphy Oil USA Inc., and Epic Systems Corporation. The employers said the arbitration contracts their employees signed prohibited the workers from going forth with any collective proceedings. Joining Gorsuch in the ruling was Chief Justice John Roberts Jr., and Justices Anthony M. Kennedy, Clarence Thomas, and Samuel Alito Jr. Writing for the four dissenters was Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg

— the oldest among her justice colleagues. Joining her were Justices Elena Kagan, Sonia Sotomayor, and Stephen Breyer. The 85-year-old described the majority opinion as being “egregiously wrong” and said it was a step back in U.S. labor rights where “yellow dog” contracts were often used to prevent workers from joining labor unions. “The end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th was a tumultuous era in the history of our Nation’s labor relations,” wrote Ginsburg. “Under economic conditions then prevailing, workers often had to accept employment on whatever terms employers dictated.” “The court today holds enforceable these arm-twisted, take-it-or-leave-it contracts — including the provisions requiring employees to litigate wage and hours claims only one-by-one,” Ginsburg continued. “Federal labor law does not countenance such isolation of employees.” The justices behind the majority vote argued that using arbitration was less expensive and less time-consuming, but opponents say the decision would be a blow to workers as tens of millions of private nonunion workers will not be able to sue collectively. Speaking to the Washington Post, president and chief executive of the National Women’s

Law Center, Fatima Goss Graves, said that employees may now be forced into an “individual, costly — and often secret — arbitration process.” “This will stack the deck in favor of the employer,” she said. To the New York Times, Gregory F. Jacob, a lawyer at O’Melveny & Meyers in Washington D.C., pointed out that arbitration clauses are already being used by employers. Jacob argued, “It does protect employers’ settled expectations and avoids placing our nation’s job providers under the threat of additional burdensome litigation drain.” According to Economic Policy Institute, nearly one in four private-sector non-union employees have been made to sign arbitration agreements that include class-action waivers. Opponents of the Monday ruling further think that the decision will most likely have a detrimental effect on the civil rights class actions regarding discrimination that have been picking up steam like the #MeToo movement, and others regarding race, religion, or gender. The decision is being considered as the most important business case of the term which began in October and will commence at the end of June. (Rae Ann Varona / AJPress)

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Dateline USa

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • mAy 24-30, 2018

A conversation with Sen. Cortez Masto on her... PAGE A1

recognize this celebration? A: It’s true what I said in my statement, Nevada is home to a vibrant and diverse AAPI community. It’s one of the fastest-growing in the country, the largest of whom are Filipinos. It’s incredible. I am excited every day when I go home — remember I was born and raised in Las Vegas — and to see that diversity and growth is fantastic. It’s important when we’re talking about and recognizing an AAPI Heritage Month because we’re not just recognizing that culture and recognizing the families but we’re recognizing the commitment and the contributions they have made to this country over centuries. Particularly in Nevada, working in our mines, building the railroads connecting the West to the rest of the country. I mean, it’s incredibly important for many people to recognize the contributions that AAPIs have given to this country and continue to recognize those commitments. Q: Given Nevada’s large immigrant population, many of whom are Asian/Filipino descent, what updates do you have from your end back in Washington that you’d like to share to share with the community who are waiting for some answers on the federal level? A: Thank you for that question. Because I meet regularly with the community in Nevada not only when I was on the campaign but now I make it a point to have regular conversations to update them with what’s going on. One of the issues they’ve always had concerns with, particularly Filipinos and the families of Filipino veterans, is family reunification. Sen. Mazie Hirono and I are continuing to fight for and support legislation to reunify those families that we made a commitment to…[and] we made a commitment to those veterans. The other area that I know that is important for many members of our community is just affordable housing. Unfortunately, in Nevada, affordable housing is the number one problem and I’ve held roundtables both in northern and southern Nevada to really focus on how we bring the two stakeholders together and address this issue at the state, local, and federal level. One of the things we’re doing at the federal level — and I’m very proud to be a part of — is we increased the low-income tax housing credit about 12.5 percent

when we passed the budget to help direct this issue. I’ve also been fighting against discrimination in affordable housing and in mortgage loans in general because I know...in minority communities and communities of color, there was a lot of discrimination. So I’ve issued the amendments and will continue to introduce legislation to fight against discrimination in lending. Q: It’s almost 10 years since the real estate crash, which you dealt with as attorney general. With Clark County’s real estate market picking up, how can we prevent another crash a decade later? A: Well, that’s the key. We don’t ever want to see that happen again. I sit on six committees — one of them is banking, housing, and urban affairs. One of the things we put in place is the DoddFrank Act to ensure that we have regulators who are doing their job because they weren’t prior to 2007. The regulators weren’t there to stop what was happening, [and] that we hold these banks accountable so they can’t engage in that predatory lending like they did... I was opposed to this, but unfortunately, in the Senate the banking committee passed S.2155, which was to roll back some of those regulations and oversight over the big banks. I disagreed with it and didn’t support it for that reason. With that said, there are community banks and credit unions in our communities who are integral parts of ensuring that we stand up to the housing crisis and we protect homeowners and keep them in their homes. I think they should be supported and I continue to support small community banks and credit unions. Q: Going back to immigration, given the rhetoric that’s been coming from the White House and other leaders, what’s your message to the immigrant population who are continuing to live in fear, may feel dehumanized, and just increasingly feel unwelcome in the country? A: Two things: My colleagues and I, in a bipartisan way, are continuing to fight for them and their families and we will continue to make them the priority and get something done. We recognize not only the contributions immigrants have made across this country, but also the economic benefits in our community. And two, it’s outrageous to me that this administration continues to want to play politics with these families and it is unconscionable

and it needs to stop. Q: With this current session, what are some of the things you’re proud of that you’ve worked on and what’s on your priority list for the rest of it? A: I’m on six committees: banking, housing, and urban affairs; energy and natural resources; commerce, science, and transportation; I sit on Indian affairs, and I also sit on the special committee on aging and the Senate rules committee. Every single one of those committees gives me the opportunity to continue to be a voice for Nevadans. That’s my proudest thing: I have the ability to be a voice to fight for Nevadans, whether it’s on health care and access to affordable health care; whether it’s fighting for Nevada as the innovative state that we have become that creates jobs and invests in our workforce and we lead the country in new technology that is evolving around the world such as drones, unmanned vehicles, and smart communities. The fact that I continue to fight to ensure that we have clean water to drink and the air that we breathe is free of pollutants and protect our public lands for outdoor use and hunting and recreation. Every single of the committees, including the committee on aging, the ability to fight to address the prescription drug crisis we have that is outrageous to me. Every single thing I’ve talked about, I have legislation that I have introduced or co-sponsored to address all of these issues. I just recently was able to sit down with Asian American and Pacific Islanders representing a diverse group of non-profits and associations. We talked about how we also continue to fight for our communities across the country, including in Nevada, when it’s addressing citizenship issues and the Census coming up, and when we’re talking about your right to vote and educating them...on how to do it. I am proud in Nevada because there are 140,000 Filipinos and Tagalog is an important language barrier to many getting out to vote. [But] some of our ballots are in Tagalog because we want to cross that barrier to make sure there is more participation. So it’s tearing down those language barriers as well. Q: As we saw in 2016, especially with your election, AAPIs came out in record numbers and continue to be swing votes in crucial elections. What’s the imPAGE A4

INDEPENDENCE DAY PREPARATION. Dozens of Philippine Flags are on display along Aguinaldo Highway in Dasmarinas, Cavite on Wednesday, May 23 in preparation for the 120th Independence Day celebration on June 12, 2018. PNA photo by Gil Calinga

Asian American advocates want stronger voter turnouts in their communities by Rae

ann VaRona AJPress

WITH a population of over 21 million, Asian Americans are growing faster than any other ethnic racial group in the United States. In California alone, the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) population size is over 6.5 million — increasing at a 52 percent growth rate. Yet, when it comes to voter turnout, experts think much more of them should be getting involved to reflect such growth. Asian Americans are expected to constitute nearly 10 percent of eligible voters by 2036. For Californians, this year is especially important as they will be able to vote for who they want as U.S. Senator, California State Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Secretary of State. These, in addition to a number of other State offices and five ballot measures. Those living in Los Angeles will also have the opportunity to vote for Superior Court, Assessor, and Sheriff seats. With the final day for voter registration and the California primary election day itself fast approaching, many Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community and advocacy groups are pushing for Asian Americans to not only register to vote, but actually head out to the polls. “Due to lower voter turnout in

primaries, AAPI communities’ votes will have a greater impact,” Stewart Kwoh, president and executive director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice LA, said at a press conference on the matter held on Thursday, May 17 at the organization’s LA headquarters. “By getting out the vote, we will show policymakers and elected officials that our voice matters and that our communities demand to be heard,” said Kwoh. In California, the number of Asian Americans who registered to vote in the state increased 11 percent between 2012 and 2016. Furthermore, Asian Americans made up over nine percent of the state’s voters during the 2016 General Election. But advocates like former California State Assemblyman Warren Furutani say that while the numbers show an improvement, they are not enough. “I think people don’t realize that the AAPI community has reached the capacity where it is no longer a minority’s minority,” said Furutani who also has served on the school board, community college board, and the state legislature. He added that the AAPI community makes up 15 percent of the state’s population, and should be using that large percentage to be a stronger part of the political process. As many Asian Americans

work to become familiar faces in media and entertainment — take the nation’s food scene, for example — many have also been working to diversify the political landscape. Such is the case for California. “If you look at businesses, or if you look at the Food Channel on television and on cable, everyone talks about Asian Food,” said Furutani. “But when it comes to politics, that’s really an area of growth for the Asian Pacific Islander community.” Among the candidates running for California governor this cycle is John Chiang, a son of Taiwanese immigrants. Running for California’s 39th Congressional District is Dr. Mai Khanh Tran who at 9 years old, immigrated from Vietnam on her own. In San Francisco, Korean American Jane Kim is running to be San Francisco’s first female Asian American mayor. These are just some of the many Asian American individuals running for offices. “So no one can complain that we don’t have candidates running for office, and these are excellent candidates,” said Furutani. Outreach efforts To encourage voter turnout, a coalition of AAPI community advocacy groups including Advancing Justice-LA have engaged in a comprehensive get out the vote and phone banking campaign to PAGE A4

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may 24-30, 2018 • LaS VEGaS aSIaN JOURNaL

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4 non-communicable diseases killing Filipinos by Sheila

cRiSoStoMo Philstar.com

ONE in three Filipinos die prematurely from four leading noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) before the age of 70. This was the warning of specialists from the United Nations Interagency Task Force on Prevention and Control of NCDs and the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Secretariat who came for a week-long mission in the Philippines. The experts said that one in three Filipinos is likely to die from cardiovascular diseases such as stroke or heart attack, diabetes, cancers and chronic respiratory diseases such as emphysema. But experts said there are many progressive initiatives to lower the burden of NCDs in the Philippines. These include the taxation of sugar-sweetened beverages and effective tobacco control measures such as placement of graphic health warnings

and the Sin Tax Law. The mission members also recognized the updated multisectoral plan to tackle NCDs in the Philippines. However, the experts pointed out that there are difficulties in raising awareness among policymakers and the public about the threats of NCDs. “To beat NCDs, we need urgent action taken at various levels of the government and engagement of all relevant stakeholders,” said Gundo Weiler, WHO representative in the Philippines. “The participation of different sectors during this joint mission clearly demonstrates that progress in NCDs prevention and control requires coordinated action by many sectors, such as finance, trade and industry, budget and management, parliamentarians, justice, education, labour and employment, agriculture, local government and others,” he added. The experts have observed that the current investments on NCDs are still focused on treat-

ment. They underscored that preventing premature deaths from NCDs will require greater investment in health promotion and protection measures. International experience shows that investments in the prevention of NCDs are amongst the most effective public health investments, providing return of $5 to $94 for each dollar allocated to measures to reduce tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol, unhealthy diets and increase physical inactivity. “Non-communicable diseases not only threatens an individual’s health, they also jeopardize the social fabric and economic development of the Philippines,” UN Philippines resident coordinator Ola Almgren said. “We commend the Philippine government on their commitment to address NCDs in the country. The UN stands ready to continue its support in the translation of this commitment into GETTING READY. Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao trains at a gym in Manila on Sunday, May 20, as he prepares for his bout with Lucas Matthysse. ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma effective action for the Filipino The two will face off in Malaysia on July 15, 2018. people,” Almgren added.n

Asian American advocates want stronger...

PAGE A3 reach the roughly 25,000 Asian voters living throughout Los Angeles County. With the help of the League of Women Voters of California Education Fund, they’ve also been distributing “Easy Voter Guides” which describe offices and the propositions in plain language with translations. The coalition also includes Korean Immigrant Workers Alliance (KIWA), Pilipino Workers Center (PWC), Filipino Migrant Center, Asian Pacific Labor Alliance, Restaurant Opportunities Center of Los Angeles, Asian Youth Center, and Asian Pacific Policy and Planning Council. Aquilina Soriano-Versoza, executive director at PWC, emphasized the importance of voting has not only having an impact on those who become elected, but on what issues get addressed. “We need the legislators to hear about the stories of our community — of how we are affected by this housing crisis, access to healthcare, immigration issues, education issues — all of these issues that impact our families and our daily lives,” Versoza told the Asian Journal. The electoral process can sometimes be confusing, and

this can be especially true for minority communities like that of Asian American groups. Challenges of getting more ideal voter turnouts for the most part revolve around education and mobilization. The PWC and the Filipino Voter Empowerment Project have been working on tools and community oriented outreach events to help encourage a larger voter turnout among the Filipino-American community which is the largest AAPI group in California with a population of 1.6 million. Their next event that will take place at the PWC on June 2 is called “Voter Empowerment powered by Halo Halo” and will feature opportunities to learn about voting basics and this cycle’s ballot initiatives while enjoying the Filipino dessert halo-halo. At KIWA, a number of immigrants are also hoping to do their part despite not yet being able to vote. “These phone bankers are not yet eligible to vote themselves — they’re immigrants and they’re aspiring to be able to vote,” said Alexandria Suh, executive director of KIWA. “But that doesn’t mean that they cannot be involved in the civic process.”

Speaking on the importance of outreach towards minority communities, Suh recalled a story of how one elderly Korean woman she had registered to vote shared that no one had ever approached her to register until then despite having been a citizen for decades. “She said to me that she wanted to vote once before she dies,” said Suh. “I really hope she votes many times before she dies, but she might not know how often those elections come around — especially the special elections.” The deadline to register to vote in this upcoming California Primary Election is Monday, May 21. Those wanting to vote via mail have until Tuesday, May 29 to request a “vote by mail” ballot. Polling places will be open on election day, Tuesday, June 5, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. “This is what this project is all about — bringing to bear our communities to create political power and have an impact on who gets elected, how policy gets made, and how it affects us and all of our communities,” said Furutani. He added, “It’s your responsibility. In my opinion, it’s an obligation.” n

Matthysse must do a Jeff Horn to beat Pacquiao by

abac coRdeRo Philstar.com

MANNY Pacquiao’s strength coach put himself in the shoes of Lucas Matthysse, and tried to figure out what the Argentine champion must do to stand a better chance inside the ring on July 15. He saw a dirty fight. “I think Matthysse will try to do what Jeff Horn did – rough him up, headbutts, elbows,” said Justin Fortune as Pacquiao wrapped up what looked like an easy day at the Elorde Gym last Saturday, May 19. Matthysse, 35, four years younger, is puncher, and the best way for him to be effective is for him to stand close to Pacquiao – and fight like Horn.

The WBA welterweight champion may pick up from where Horn left in that cold day in July in Brisbane, where Pacquiao was bullied and stripped of his crown. “If I was fighting Manny I’d try to do exactly the same thing Jeff Horn did. Rough him up and put Manny on the ropes. But we’re planning for that,” said Fortune, who flew in three days ago. “Matthysse is an aggressive fighter and he’s a puncher. And he needs to be this close to Manny,” he told The STAR. With his hands, Fortune motioned that Matthysse must be 12 inches close to Pacquiao to land his punches. “That close,” he said. Pacquiao would welcome Matthysse as close to him as pos-

sible. Other lessons were learned in the fight against the former schoolteacher from Brisbane, and one that’s as important as the others is that Pacquiao must not overtrain for this one. “To some extent, we overtrained (for Horn). Three weeks before the fight we did a ridiculous amount of rounds. And he burned himself out,” he said. Otherwise, it would have been an easy fight as the Pacquiao camp had expected. “That fight should have been done in four to five rounds. But even if we were overtrained, I think we still won the fight, and so does the rest of the world,” said the former heavyweight contender from Australia. n

‘Legal drug war’ in the Philippines elates US exec by Ritchel

Mendiola AJPress

THE United States is reportedly elated to hear reports about drug operations in the Philippines being conducted within the rule of law, a visiting State Department official said Wednesday, May 16. “That’s very good for us to hear. We’re encouraged to hear about those efforts,” Patrick Murphy, acting principal deputy assistant secretary for East Asia and the Pacific of the U.S. State Department, told reporters at a press briefing. According to Murphy, he was “glad” to hear about “Philippine

government officials discussing the anti-drug campaign conducted in accordance with the rule of law.” He also said that the U.S. understands the challenges brought by the anti-drug campaign to the Philippines at the national, international and the community level. “We want to be good partners. Of course as allies and friends we speak frankly. We speak honestly. Occasionally each country has concerns with each other and in the effort to counter narcotics here,” Murphy said. “We very much hope and we message this hope that the Phil-

ippines will continue to conduct this campaign in accordance with the rule of law and respect for human rights,” he added. Murphy said the war on illicit narcotics is “an endeavor shared by both the Philippines and the U.S.” “The Philippines has a very significant challenge. The U.S. does have as well. We’re experiencing an opioid crisis,” he added. The U.S. has shown concern over the drug-related killings in the Philippines in the past and has offered assistance in the country’s efforts toward rehabilitation as well as stopping international trafficking groups. n

A conversation with Sen. Cortez Masto on her... PAGE A3

ğ įōíľ ÀðıÃæµįPçį ŉ æĲįıÀ ØÃĉÃæîÂ ß ğÃqPç qíßßĽæÃıŎįĤÀíĽØ ÕæíŊįPdíĽĲĕ

portance for them to get out to vote on June 12 for the primary and eventually in November? A: Thank you. I would not be here if they did not come out to vote. Every vote matters. The issues that we just talked about

and that I know that they care about, by coming out to vote and supporting individuals that are going to represent your interests is going to be key. I know that, that’s why I’m here fighting and am their voice to fight for the issues they care about. Participating

in the election process and paying attention to the candidates and asking the questions is key and still important in our democracy moving forward and everyone should participate. (This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity).n

Sotto vows to be a ‘more vocal’ Senate... PAGE A1 had long been planned. He formally nominated Sotto as his successor during the Senate plenary session later in the afternoon, saying his nominee is “an institution in the Senate. He has been there and done that in his long career in the Senate.” He recognized Sotto’s performance as Senate majority leader, saying Sotto solved deadlocks on the floor and clarified difficult procedural issues. Sotto, of the Nationalist People’s Coalition, said he is “deeply humbled and sincerely grateful” for the opportunity to lead the Senate “at this critical and challenging time.” “To my colleagues and to the Filipino people, I am committed to do my very best and, with your

help, I am confident that I have in my background the template of 9 other Senate presidents that I have served,” he said. In his speech, Sotto vowed to be more “vocal” in defending the Senate and asserting its independent voice amid criticism that there were better options to lead the chamber. He also vowed to pass more laws for the benefit of Filipinos. “I hereby pledge to continue in helping in the passage of laws that will be beneficial to the country and to every Filipino and to continue as well the diligence and dedication of Sen. Koko Pimentel who has been the principal author and sponsor of many landmark laws,” he said. He also defended the Senate against criticisms saying it has

been slow in processing measures passed by the House of Representatives — a “slow chamber” as House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez put it. “Slow but sure. We are curing a lot,” he said, adding that the chamber had only 22 senators who should be judicious enough to scrutinize every bill passing through the Senate. First elected to the Senate in 1992, Sotto is the most senior member of the Senate. Sotto has led several committees, among them public services, science and technology, local governments and tourism. He has also sponsored and authored more than 100 laws, making him one of the most prolific senators. Senator Miguel Zubiri will replace Sotto as majority leader. n

PH gov’t concerned over Chinese bomber... If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, email us the details (title, description, time & date, location, etc.) at info@asianjournalinc.com. And for consideration in our print calendar, please send submissions at least three weeks before the date of the event. To be included in our online calendar/ e-newsletter, please allow at least two to three weeks' notice. The Asian Journal would be delighted to list your event in our Calendar of Events.

PAGE A2 ‘Cannot go into battle’ Duterte on Tuesday, May 22, gave his comments on the situation and said that while he wants to defend the country’s claims to the South China Sea, he is wary of worsening the situation. “I cannot afford at this time to go to war,” said Duterte at the Coconut Palace in Pasay City during the Philippine Navy’s 120th anniversary. “I cannot go into a battle which I cannot win and would only result in destruction for our armed forces. I really want to do something to assert [our rights].” He added, “In my own estimation, it would be a great loss to the nation and probably we will end up losing a war. All these things, I want to be made known to you. Whether you accept it or not, that’s the reality on the

ground.” Duterte has received much criticism for his inconsistent strategy in dealing with the dispute, starting back when he pulled out of a 2016 arbitration ruling by the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) that went in favor of the Philippines’ rights to the area. Former Philippine foreign minister Albert del Rosario, has since been urging the president and his administration to reconsider the country’s foreign policies. Speaking on the China bombers, Rosario continued his urges, adding a reminder that the Philippine Constitution “mandates our president to defend what is lawfully ours.” He further added that in 2016, a Pulse Asia survey indicated that more than 8 in 10 Filipinos agreed on asserting the rights awarded by the arbitral tribunal.

Encouraging Filipinos to help Duterte and the government, Rosario said, “Our government needs to listen to its people. Our northern neighbor needs to listen to the Filipino people. And finally, all our traditional partners and friends — who are waiting for a united voice — need to hear from us.” “Let us, therefore, respectfully convey to our President that we eagerly await his inspirational leadership by doing what is right,” he added. China’s militarization moves are said to be included in the upcoming Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM), a biannual meeting between China and Philippine officials on the maritime dispute concerns. The first BCM was held a year ago in May 2017, and the second last February. The next is slated for June. n

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • mAy 24-30, 2018

(702) 792-6678 • http://www.asianjournal.com

Karagdagang kaalaman sa Filipino (Tagalog) ay makikita rin sa website ng Lalawigan ng Clark Kagawaran ng Halalan sa: www.clarkcountynv.gov/vote. NOTICE OF EARLY VOTING FOR THE 2018 PRIMARY ELECTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that early voting for the June 12, 2018 Primary Election will begin on May 26, Saturday, and continues through June 8, Friday. Any voter registered in Clark County is eligible to vote at any early voting location. Any voter registered in Clark County is also eligible to vote by mail. Any voter wishing to vote by mail must submit a written request for a mail ballot, which must be received in the Election Department by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 5, 2018. For additional information, call the mail ballot hotline at (702) 455-6552. The early voting locations, dates, and times are listed below. All voting sites are ADA compliant. For additional information, call the Clark County Election Department at (702) 455-VOTE (8683). The TTY/TDD number is 711. Also check online at www.ClarkCountyNV.gov/vote. 2018 PRIMARY ELECTION EARLY VOTING SCHEDULE MAY 26 (SATURDAY) TO JUNE 8 (FRIDAY)

LONG-TERM EARLY VOTING SITES: MALLS BOULEVARD MALL, East Corridor near Christy Candy and Rear (EAST) Mall Entrance 3528 S. Maryland Pkwy., between E. Desert Inn Rd. and E. Twain Ave., Las Vegas MAY 26-JUNE 8 Saturday and Monday-Friday (except Mon., May 28, and Thurs.-Fri., June 7-8): 10am-7pm Sunday: 11am-6pm Monday, May 28 (Memorial Day): 10am-6pm Last Thursday-Friday, June 7-8: 10am-9pm GALLERIA AT SUNSET, Kohl’s Court, 1st Floor 1300 W. Sunset Rd. @ N. Stephanie St., Henderson MAY 26-JUNE 8 Saturday and Monday-Friday (except Mon., May 28, and Thurs.-Fri., June 7-8): 10am-7pm Sunday: 11am-6pm Monday, May 28 (Memorial Day): 10am-6pm Last Thursday-Friday, June 7-8: 10am-9pm MEADOWS MALL, Sears Court, 1st Floor 4300 Meadows Lane @ S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas MAY 26-JUNE 8 Saturday and Monday-Friday (except Mon., May 28, and Thurs.-Fri., June 7-8): 10am-7pm Sunday: 10am-6pm Monday, May 28 (Memorial Day): 10am-6pm Last Thursday-Friday, June 7-8: 10am-9pm LONG-TERM EARLY VOTING SITES: SHOPPING CENTERS ARROYO MARKET SQUARE, Event Tent in Parking Lot near The Men’s Wearhouse CC-215 @ S. Rainbow Blvd., Las Vegas MAY 26-JUNE 7 (Sat.-Thurs.): 9am-6pm JUNE 8 (Last Fri.): 9am-7pm BLUE DIAMOND CROSSING, Event Tent in Parking Lot between Target and Kohl’s Blue Diamond Rd. @ Arville St., Las Vegas MAY 26-JUNE 7 (Sat.-Thurs.): 9am-6pm JUNE 8 (Last Fri.): 9am-7pm CENTENNIAL CENTER, Event Tent in Parking Lot near Home Depot W. Tropical Pkwy. @ Centennial Center Blvd., Las Vegas MAY 26-JUNE 7 (Sat.-Thurs.): 9am-6pm JUNE 8 (Last Fri.): 9am-7pm DEER SPRINGS TOWN CENTER, Event Tent in Parking Lot near Michaels N. 5th St., South of CC-215 @ W. Dorrell Ln., North Las Vegas MAY 26-JUNE 7 (Sat.-Thurs.): 9am-6pm JUNE 8 (Last Fri.): 9am-7pm DOWNTOWN SUMMERLIN, Event Tent in Parking Lot near Dillard’s Sahara Ave. @ CC-215, Las Vegas MAY 26-JUNE 7 (Sat.-Thurs.): 9am-6pm JUNE 8 (Last Fri.): 9am-7pm THE GRAMERCY, Event Tent in Parking Lot 9265 W. Russell Rd., West of CC-215, Las Vegas MAY 26-JUNE 7 (Sat.-Thurs.): 9am-6pm JUNE 8 (Last Fri.): 9am-7pm SILVERADO RANCH PLAZA, Event Tent in Parking Lot near PetSmart Eastern Ave. @ E. Silverado Ranch Blvd., Las Vegas MAY 26-JUNE 7 (Sat.-Thurs.): 9am-6pm JUNE 8 (Last Fri.): 9am-7pm LONG-TERM EARLY VOTING SITES: PUBLIC BUILDINGS CLARK COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) Bldg., 1st Floor, Room 108 600 S. Grand Central Pkwy. @ W. Bonneville Ave., Las Vegas MAY 26-JUNE 8 Saturday-Sunday, May 26-27 and June 2-3: CLOSED Monday, May 28 (Memorial Day): CLOSED Tuesday-Friday, May 29-June 1: 8am-6pm Monday-Friday, June 4-8: 8am-6pm DR. WILLIAM U. PEARSON COMMUNITY CENTER Room C, 1625 W. Carey Ave., West of Martin Luther King Blvd., North Las Vegas MAY 26-JUNE 1 Saturday, May 26: 9am-5pm Sunday, May 27: CLOSED Monday, May 28 (Memorial Day): CLOSED Tuesday-Friday, May 29-June 1: 9am-6pm DOOLITTLE COMMUNITY CENTER Room B, 1950 J St., East of Lake Mead Blvd., Las Vegas JUNE 2-8 Saturday, June 2: 9am-5pm Sunday, June 3: CLOSED Monday-Friday, June 4-8: 9am-6pm EAST LAS VEGAS COMMUNITY CENTER 250 N. Eastern Ave. @ Stewart Ave., Las Vegas MAY 26-JUNE 8 Saturday, May 26 and June 2: 10am-6pm Sunday, May 27 and June 3: CLOSED Monday, May 28 (Memorial Day): CLOSED Tuesday-Friday, May 29-June 1: 9am-6pm Monday-Friday, June 4-8: 9am-6pm DATE / LOCATION MAY 26, SATURDAY Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Buy Low Market Cardenas Market Desert Crossing Shop. Ctr. (Trailer) Desert Vista Community Center Las Vegas Athletic Club (Trailer) Lowe’s Parking Lot (Trailer) Portofino Senior Apartments Skye Center at Skye Canyon Sun City Anthem Center

SHORT-TERM NEIGHBORHOOD EARLY VOTING SITES ADDRESS / CROSS STREETS

TIME

Ann / Simmons Charleston / Town Center College / Horizon Craig / Decatur Nellis / Vegas Valley Tropicana / Jones 1061 W. Owens Ave. / H St. 4421 E. Bonanza Rd. / Lamb Desert Inn / Decatur 10360 Sun City Blvd. / Thomas W. Ryan 1725 N. Rainbow Blvd., South of Lake Mead Blvd. 2570 E. Craig Rd. / Losee 1001 Las Palmas Entrada Ave. / S. Gibson Rd. 10111 W. Skye Canyon Park Dr. / Skye Village Rd. 2450 Hampton Rd. / Anthem Pkwy.

9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 4pm 10am - 5pm 8am - 5pm

MAY 27, SUNDAY Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Buy Low Market Cardenas Market Desert Crossing Shop. Ctr. (Trailer) Desert Vista Community Center Las Vegas Athletic Club (Trailer) Lowe’s Parking Lot (Trailer) Skye Center at Skye Canyon Sun City Anthem Center

Ann / Simmons Charleston / Town Center College / Horizon Craig / Decatur Nellis / Vegas Valley Tropicana / Jones 1061 W. Owens Ave. / H St. 4421 E. Bonanza Rd. / Lamb Desert Inn / Decatur 10360 Sun City Blvd. / Thomas W. Ryan 1725 N. Rainbow Blvd., South of Lake Mead Blvd. 2570 E. Craig Rd. / Losee 10111 W. Skye Canyon Park Dr. / Skye Village Rd. 2450 Hampton Rd. / Anthem Pkwy.

9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 8am - 5pm

MAY 28, MONDAY (Memorial Day) Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Buy Low Market Cardenas Market La Bonita Supermarket (Trailer) Las Vegas Athletic Club (Trailer) Lowe’s Parking Lot (Trailer) Sun City Aliante Community Ctr. Sun City Anthem Center Target (Trailer)

Ann / Simmons Charleston / Town Center College / Horizon Craig / Decatur Desert Inn / Pecos-McLeod Flamingo / Hualapai 1061 W. Owens Ave. / H St. 4421 E. Bonanza Rd. / Lamb 6000 W. Cheyenne Ave. / Jones 1725 N. Rainbow Blvd., South of Lake Mead Blvd. 2570 E. Craig Rd. / Losee 7390 Aliante Pkwy. / Elkhorn 2450 Hampton Rd. / Anthem Pkwy. 3550 S. Rainbow Blvd. / Spring Mountain

9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm

MAY 29, TUESDAY Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Aliante Library Boulder City, City Hall James Down Towers La Bonita Supermarket (Trailer) Lakes Lutheran Church Las Vegas Athletic Club (Trailer) Lowe’s Parking Lot (Trailer) Mountain Crest Community Ctr. Paseo Verde Library Sun City Aliante Community Ctr. Sun City MacDonald Ranch Community Ctr. Target (Trailer)

Charleston / Sloan Desert Inn / Pecos-McLeod Flamingo / Hualapai 2400 W. Deer Springs Way, West of Clayton 401 California Ave. / Arizona St. 5000 Alta Dr. / Brush St. 6000 W. Cheyenne Ave. / Jones 8200 W. Sahara Ave. / Cimarron 1725 N. Rainbow Blvd., South of Lake Mead Blvd. 2570 E. Craig Rd. / Losee 4701 N. Durango Dr., South of Lone Mountain 280 S. Green Valley Pkwy., South of Paseo Verde 7390 Aliante Pkwy. / Elkhorn 2020 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy., East of Green Valley Pkwy. 3550 S. Rainbow Blvd. / Spring Mountain

8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 11am - 7pm 7am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm

MAY 30, WEDNESDAY Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Aliante Library

Charleston / Rainbow Charleston / Sloan Desert Inn / Pecos-McLeod Flamingo / Hualapai 2400 W. Deer Springs Way, West of Clayton

8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 11am - 7pm

DATE / LOCATION

ADDRESS / CROSS STREETS

TIME

MAY 30, WEDNESDAY Boulder City, City Hall Las Vegas Athletic Club (Trailer) Lowe’s Parking Lot (Trailer) Mountain Crest Community Ctr. Paseo Verde Library Siena Social / Community Ctr. Silver Mesa Recreation Center Sun City MacDonald Ranch Community Ctr. Target (Trailer) Veterans Memorial Leisure Ctr.

401 California Ave. / Arizona St. 1725 N. Rainbow Blvd., South of Lake Mead Blvd. 2570 E. Craig Rd. / Losee 4701 N. Durango Dr., South of Lone Mountain 280 S. Green Valley Pkwy., South of Paseo Verde 10525 Siena Monte Ave., East of Town Center Dr. 4025 Allen Ln. / Alexander 2020 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy., East of Green Valley Pkwy. 3550 S. Rainbow Blvd. / Spring Mountain 101 N. Pavilion Center Dr., North of Alta

7am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm

MAY 31, THURSDAY Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Aliante Library Boulder City, City Hall Enterprise Library Green Valley Library Las Vegas Athletic Club (Trailer) Lowe’s Parking Lot (Trailer) Montara Meadows Retirement Ctr. Mountain Crest Community Ctr. Nellis Crossing Shop. Ctr. (Trailer) Silver Mesa Recreation Center Veterans Memorial Leisure Ctr. Walnut Recreation Center

Charleston / Rainbow Eastern / Warm Springs Lake Mead Pkwy. / Boulder Hwy. 2400 W. Deer Springs Way, West of Clayton 401 California Ave. / Arizona St. 25 E. Shelbourne Ave. / S. Las Vegas Blvd. 2797 N. Green Valley Pkwy. / Sunset 1725 N. Rainbow Blvd., South of Lake Mead Blvd. 2570 E. Craig Rd. / Losee 3150 E. Tropicana Ave., West of Mojave Rd. 4701 N. Durango Dr., South of Lone Mountain Nellis / Charleston 4025 Allen Ln. / Alexander 101 N. Pavilion Center Dr., North of Alta 3075 N. Walnut Rd., South of Cheyenne

8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 11am - 7pm 7am - 6pm 10am - 7pm 10am - 7pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm

JUNE 1, FRIDAY Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Alexander Library Enterprise Library Green Valley Library Las Vegas Athletic Club (Trailer) Lowe’s Parking Lot (Trailer) Moapa Valley Senior Center Nellis Crossing Shop. Ctr. (Trailer) Silver Sky Assisted Living Veterans Memorial Leisure Ctr. Vons Walnut Recreation Center

Craig / Tenaya Eastern / Warm Springs Lake Mead Pkwy. / Boulder Hwy. Village Center Cir. / Trails Center 1755 W. Alexander Rd., West of M.L. King 25 E. Shelbourne Ave. / S. Las Vegas Blvd. 2797 N. Green Valley Pkwy. / Sunset 1725 N. Rainbow Blvd., South of Lake Mead Blvd. 2570 E. Craig Rd. / Losee 325 N. Cooper St., Overton Nellis / Charleston 8220 Silver Sky Circle / Roland Wiley Rd. 101 N. Pavilion Center Dr., North of Alta Sky Pointe / Buffalo 3075 N. Walnut Rd., South of Cheyenne

9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 6pm 10am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm

JUNE 2, SATURDAY Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Alexander Library Chinatown Plaza Green Valley Library Green Valley Town Center (Trailer) Las Ventanas Retirement Community Lowe’s Parking Lot (Trailer) Nellis Crossing Shop. Ctr. (Trailer) Seafood City Sun City Mesquite Target, Boca Park (Trailer) Vons

Craig / Tenaya Flamingo / Durango Lake Mead Blvd. / Hollywood Stephanie / Horizon Ridge Village Center Cir. / Trails Center 1755 W. Alexander Rd., West of M.L. King 4215 Spring Mountain Rd. / Wynn 2797 N. Green Valley Pkwy. / Sunset 4500 E. Sunset Rd., East of Mountain Vista 10401 W. Charleston Blvd., East of Town Center Dr. 2570 E. Craig Rd. / Losee Nellis / Charleston 3890 S. Maryland Pkwy. / Katie 1350 Flat Top Mesa Dr., Mesquite 8750 W. Charleston Blvd. / Rampart Sky Pointe / Buffalo

9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 11am - 6pm 10am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm

JUNE 3, SUNDAY Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Chinatown Plaza Green Valley Town Center (Trailer) Lowe’s Parking Lot (Trailer) Mesquite Deuce 2 Building Nellis Crossing Shop. Ctr. (Trailer) Oakmont of West Las Vegas Seafood City Solera Anthem Community Ctr. Target, Boca Park (Trailer) Vons

Ann / Drexel Cheyenne / Durango Flamingo / Durango Lake Mead Blvd. / Hollywood Stephanie / Horizon Ridge Village Center Cir. / Trails Center 4215 Spring Mountain Rd. / Wynn 4500 E. Sunset Rd., East of Mountain Vista 2570 E. Craig Rd. / Losee 150 N. Yucca St., Mesquite Nellis / Charleston 3250 S. Ft. Apache Rd., North of W. Desert Inn Rd. 3890 S. Maryland Pkwy. / Katie 2401 Somersworth Dr. / Solera Sky 8750 W. Charleston Blvd. / Rampart Sky Pointe / Buffalo

9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 11am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm

JUNE 4, MONDAY Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Bob Price Recreation Center Centennial Hills YMCA Green Valley Town Center (Trailer) Heritage Park Sr. Facility Mesquite Deuce 2 Building Mountain Shadows Comm. Ctr. Nellis Crossing Shop. Ctr. (Trailer) Sahara West Library Sartini Plaza Solera Anthem Community Ctr. Target, Boca Park (Trailer) Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Whitney Recreation Center

Ann / Drexel Blue Diamond / Buffalo Cheyenne / Durango 2050 Bonnie Ln. / E. Lake Mead Blvd. 6601 N. Buffalo Dr. / Sky Pointe 4500 E. Sunset Rd., East of Mountain Vista 300 S. Racetrack Rd. / Burkholder 150 N. Yucca St., Mesquite 9107 Del Webb Blvd. / Crown Ridge Nellis / Charleston 9600 W. Sahara Ave. / Grand Canyon 900 Brush St., North of W. Charleston Blvd. 2401 Somersworth Dr. / Solera Sky 8750 W. Charleston Blvd. / Rampart 4337 N. Las Vegas Blvd. / Craig 5712 Missouri Ave., West of Boulder Hwy.

9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 7pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm

JUNE 5, TUESDAY Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Bob Price Recreation Center Centennial Hills YMCA Green Valley Town Center (Trailer) Heritage Park Sr. Facility Mesquite Deuce 2 Building Mountain Shadows Comm. Ctr. Nellis Crossing Shop. Ctr. (Trailer) Sahara West Library Sartini Plaza Solera Anthem Community Ctr. Target, Boca Park (Trailer) Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Whitney Recreation Center

9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 7pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm

JUNE 6, WEDNESDAY Albertsons Albertsons Bob Price Recreation Center Canyon Ridge Church (Trailer) Carefree Senior Living Centennial Hills YMCA Green Valley Town Center (Trailer) Henderson City Hall Laughlin Library Nellis Crossing Shop. Ctr. (Trailer) Paradise Park Community Ctr. Rainbow Library Sahara West Library SkyView YMCA Southern Highlands Mktpl. (Trailer) Vons

Blue Diamond / Buffalo Buffalo / Vegas 2050 Bonnie Ln. / E. Lake Mead Blvd. 6200 W. Lone Mountain Rd. / Jones 3250 Town Center Dr. / W. Desert Inn Rd. 6601 N. Buffalo Dr. / Sky Pointe 4500 E. Sunset Rd., East of Mountain Vista 240 S. Water St. / W. Basic Rd. 2840 S. Needles Hwy., Laughlin Nellis / Charleston 4775 S. McLeod Dr., North of Tropicana 3150 N. Buffalo Dr. / Cheyenne 9600 W. Sahara Ave. / Grand Canyon 3050 E. Centennial Pkwy. Southern Highlands Pkwy. / Cactus Horizon / Horizon Ridge

8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am – 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 7:30am - 5:30pm 10am - 7pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 7pm 10am - 7pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm

JUNE 7, THURSDAY Albertsons Albertsons Canyon Ridge Church (Trailer) Desert Breeze Community Ctr. Green Valley Town Center (Trailer) Hollywood Recreation Center Nellis Crossing Shop. Ctr. (Trailer) Paradise Park Community Ctr. Rainbow Library Silver Sky at Deer Springs Assisted Living SkyView YMCA Southern Highlands Mktpl. (Trailer) Vons Vons West Flamingo Senior Center

Buffalo / Vegas Farm / Durango 6200 W. Lone Mountain Rd. / Jones 8275 Spring Mountain Rd. / S. Cimarron Rd. 4500 E. Sunset Rd., East of Mountain Vista 1650 S. Hollywood Blvd., Between E. Sahara & E. Charleston Nellis / Charleston 4775 S. McLeod Dr., North of Tropicana 3150 N. Buffalo Dr. / Cheyenne 6741 N. Decatur Blvd. / Deer Springs Way, Bldg. 3 3050 E. Centennial Pkwy. Southern Highlands Pkwy. / Cactus Horizon / Horizon Ridge Windmill Pkwy. / Pecos 6255 W. Flamingo Rd. / Jones

8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 7pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm

JUNE 8, FRIDAY Albertsons Albertsons Canyon Ridge Church (Trailer) Desert Breeze Community Ctr. Green Valley Town Center (Trailer) Hollywood Recreation Center Horizon Pines Nellis Crossing Shop. Ctr. (Trailer) Paradise Park Community Ctr. Rainbow Library SkyView YMCA Southern Highlands Mktpl. (Trailer) Vons Vons West Flamingo Senior Center

Buffalo / Vegas Farm / Durango 6200 W. Lone Mountain Rd. / Jones 8275 Spring Mountain Rd. / S. Cimarron Rd. 4500 E. Sunset Rd., East of Mountain Vista 1650 S. Hollywood Blvd., Between E. Sahara & E. Charleston 2570 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy., South of Carnegie St. Nellis / Charleston 4775 S. McLeod Dr., North of Tropicana 3150 N. Buffalo Dr. / Cheyenne 3050 E. Centennial Pkwy. Southern Highlands Pkwy. / Cactus Horizon / Horizon Ridge Windmill Pkwy. / Pecos 6255 W. Flamingo Rd. / Jones

8am - 6pm 8am - 6pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 7pm 8am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 7pm 10am - 6pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 7pm 8am - 6pm 8am - 5pm

Dated this 8th day of May, 2018.

JOSEPH P. GLORIA Registrar of Voters Clark County, Nevada PUB: May 24, 31, & June 7, 2018 Las Vegas Asian Journal

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OpiniOn

The fighting 14

Features

In the ouster of Maria Lourdes Sereno as chief justice, the House of Representatives has all but relinquished to the executive and judicial branches its constitutional power of impeachment. At least there’s hope in the other chamber of the 17th Congress, where 14 senators have signed a resolution urging the Supreme Court to review Sereno’s ouster through a mere quo warranto petition filed by the solicitor general. The ouster was approved with uncharacteristic speed by eight of the 15 SC justices, whose common denominator was their personal dislike for Sereno. While the landmark SC decision states that it will no longer have any further action on the issue, court rules give Sereno the right to file an appeal within 15 working days. Depriving her of an appeal will be as unjust as what critics of the SC ruling describe as a virtual revision of the Constitution by eight individuals, with the change requiring no approval by the people in a nationwide referendum. While Sereno is preparing her appeal, and even when the Supreme Court was deliberating on the unprecedented petition, the House – if it wanted to assert its constitutional power of impeachment, and if its members believed there is a strong case against Sereno – should

have proceeded with the impeachment proceedings. Instead the House is sitting on the impeachment and letting the SC carry out Sereno’s beheading. There’s a microscopic minority in the House that’s making noises about impeaching the eight SC justices for culpable violation of the Constitution. But this initiative is certain to be laughed out of the House by the super majority. The mood in the Senate raises hopes that the system of checks and balances among the three branches of government might yet survive. Perhaps the SC might heed the sentiments of 14 senators: Aquilino Pimentel III, soon to lose the leader’s post in the chamber, together with President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto, Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, Juan Edgardo Angara, Paolo Benigno Aquino IV, Francis Escudero, Sherwin Gatchalian, Risa Hontiveros, Loren Legarda, Leila de Lima, Francis Pangilinan, Grace Poe and Antonio Trillanes IV. Theirs might prove to be a voice in the wilderness, but they deserve to be remembered for their stand. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

‘Five breeds of Duterte haters and why they are all equally ridiculous’ DEVOTE my enmentality wherein tire column today Commentary most Filipinos both to a very enlightin the Philippines and ening piece (with the millions of Filipithe above title) by nos who live abroad American Adam Garsupport Duterte while rie in the website his mostly non-FiliEurasia/Future. In RigobeRto tiglao pino detractors have the Asia Times webcrowned themselves site where he also neo-colonial masters contributes, Garrie is described as “a who will “save” the country from a geopolitical expert with an emphasis President that most Filipinos either on Eurasia, Director of Eurasia Future approve or support or love. and frequent guest on Digital Divides, The sanctimonious left RT’s CrossTalk and Press TV’s The DeOne of the biggest myths proffered bate.” both by liberals and the sanctimoI couldn’t have written better his de- niously alt-media far left is that Duterte scription of “Duterte haters,” especially is a “fascist.” Not only is this outright that breed he describes as “those with- slander of the Filipino people and of out a sense of humor.” One breed he Duterte himself, but it is slander of the missed though are the Clerics, who are real victims of real fascism, including aghast that Duterte doesn’t represent those in the Donbass republics who the elites they have always served, and are being slaughtered by those who in turn served by, since the birth of the have openly pledged loyalty to fascist nation. I’ll devote a future column to leaders. that breed of hypocrites. In actual fact, Duterte is a man GARRIE PIECE STARTS HERE: whose primary goal is to reduce his Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte own power and those around him. is subject to many varieties of slander Duterte’s proposals for a federal refrom all sides of international media public would reduce the power of the and from various political/ideological central government/imperial Manila groups. What all of these otherwise and give more democratic control to disparate groups have in common is local people over their own political that they universally ignore the fact future. that Duterte won a fair and democratic Duterte has further stated that if election in 2016 and remains not only anything he’d like to retire early, so incredibly popular but far more popu- long as his major reforms get implelar than most elected leaders, includ- mented. Duterte views on issues ranging the Presidents of the United States ing from taxation and labor regulations and France, as well as the German and to health and safety, the environment British heads of government. and infrastructural investment are neiIn this sense, one is witnessing a ther left nor right. They are rational perverse experiment in the colonial problem-solving policies based on the

Commentary

logical needs of a developing country with immense potential that has been held back through decades of ineffective rulers. There is simply nothing remotely extreme, let alone fascistic about this. If one is in any doubt about this, one need only examine the communist government of China which unlike the corrupt, blood-soaked and malicious Communist Party of The Philippines, is more like Duterte when it comes to finding successful solutions to real-life problems. Those without a sense of humor The other thing that binds Duterte detractors together is a total lack of any sense of humor. Duterte is not only a prolific President but an expert at trolling his opponents. He often repeats the insults he has to deal with and jokingly turns these insults into positive attributes as a rhetorical device to expose the absurdity of the original accusations. Those who do not understand this are guilty either of having no sense of humor, being objectively stupid or people from the West who can only understand an English speaker if their accent resembles that of Orson Welles or the Queen of England. Snobs are the other big group of people who are professional non-Filipino Duterte haters. To such people who have never had a family member raped, tortured, murdered and then mutilated by a monster in human form who has taken the drug commonly known as shabu, Duterte is somehow evil because they associate him with a threat to their own perverse drugfixated lifestyles. Because even in the West where drug dealing and consum-

ing is largely normalized, few people who want to be taken seriously will stand up and support drug dealing, they instead attack Duterte using longwinded criticisms that are unrelated to anything in the real world. Instead of saying what they mean, such snobs engage in a feat of pseudo-intellectual acrobatics in order to say that somehow it would be better for Filipinos to live in a country where druggies kill normal people than in a country where police officers arrest and if necessary shoot resisting offenders in order to protect normal people from criminals. To these people, the abstract concept of drugs being normal while law enforcement against drugs is somehow wrong, is at odds with the reality of those whose lives consist of something other than trips to liberal art museums and long nights of drug purchasing from the safety of their rich father’s home in New York, Berlin, Paris, London or San Francisco. The neo-colonial right Then there are the sanctimonious right-wingers who cannot accept the fact that the Philippines is no longer a country that is willing to serve America’s interests in Southeast Asia. Under Duterte, the country has engaged a radical new foreign policy designed to put the interests of the Philippines first, while maintaining an official stance of neutrality in any global conflicts that could only harm the country if the Philippines were to choose a side. This is called rational multi-polar thinking in the pursuit of win-win geopolitical outcomes. It is the wave of the future, but for many

who are stuck in the past, it amounts to a kind of treason. Duterte’s domestic opponents who speak freely about why he’s ‘killing free speech’ Finally, there are a minority of Filipinos, usually those in elite circles or extremist political circles who dislike Duterte. They are in some ways Duterte’s best friends as their very presence nullifies their only argument. They claim Duterte is shutting down free speech and yet Duterte’s opponents in the Philippines are among the loudest people you will ever come across. Thus, if you are freely speaking out against a man you accuse of ending free speech, your very actions have defeated your argument. In summary, right wingers see Duterte as a kind of Asian Che Guevara out to ‘harm America’ and left wingers see him as a king of far-right dictator simply because he is turning a lawless system into one based on normal laws, many of which long predate Duterte but have simply never been enforced by his corrupt predecessors. Then there are the snobs for whom Duterte reminds them of the fact that one needn’t be upper class in order to have morality while hammering home the message that many so-called upper- class Westerns live like pigs or even criminals who think they are above the law. Finally, there are there screaming Yellows and communists who claim they have no rights….all the while exercising their rights. Thus far, it has been impossible to identify any rational voices among Duterte’s detractors. (ManilaTimes.net)

On South China Sea: Let us help our president

cated that more than eight in ten Filipinos believe we should assert our rights as awarded by the arbitral tribunal in The albeRt del RosaRio Hague. CHINA lands bombers on However, since the incumSCS isles” was the headline that bent administration made the greeted us on Sunday, May 20. early decision to shelve the These landings took place on arbitral outcome, not only a reclaimed feature in the Para- have we lost opportunities to cel Islands, which is within our advance our position, we have neighborhood, thus bringing also found ourselves thrown Chinese militarization closer to into reverse gear, our position our backyard. fully disadvantaged. What else can we do to deWould it make a difference fend and advance our lawful if we all spoke loudly, clearly, position in the West Philippine and with one voice to fight for Sea? our national security? Should As a reminder, the Philippine we be more helpful to our govConstitution mandates that our ernment as a proud people of a president defend what is lawful- sovereign democratic nation? ly ours. Our government should Yes, for obvious reasons. also be mindful that, as early as Our government needs to lis2016, a Pulse Asia survey indi- ten to its people. Our northern

neighbor needs to listen to the Filipino people. And, finally, all our traditional partners and friends who are waiting for a united voice need to hear from us. Nearly all Filipinos, I believe, would agree that our foreign policy should be revisited. Let us say this so loudly. Is it high time for our government to assert our rightful position by utilizing the experience and diplomatic expertise of the Department of Foreign Affairs? If we believe this, let us say so. Is it high time for our government to defend our rights by relying on the skill, courage and patriotism of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, which is capable of developing a credible minimum defense posture

against any bully or aggressor, whoever that might be? If we believe this, let us say so. As we had previously said, we are opposed to war, as we should be. But if threatened by the use of force, we should be ready to inflict, at the very least, a bloody nose on any attacker who is out to harm us. For example, it is my understanding that this capacity, which may be provided by Bramos missiles that the AFP can acquire from India, would be a good starting point. With the President’s thoughtful leadership, and with the coordinated execution by the DFA and AFP under Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano and Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, respectively, we can stand together more firmly in defend-

ing what is ours and upholding the security of our people. Inquirer columnist Solita Monsod also suggests that all of us take a few minutes to write our president. I humbly suggest that we all ask him to be more proactive and assertive in defending our territory. Acting Chief Justice Antonio Carpio, a learned and patriotic advocate, believes that a diplomatic protest should be urgently filed, and that we should take our assertive and lawful stand to the doorsteps of our northern neighbor’s embassy. I fully agree with these suggestions, and trust that many others will share the sentiment. The president believes, however, that those of us who en-

deavor to speak in the spirit of being helpful are not prepared to sacrifice ourselves. We ask our leadership to have more confidence in our people. To support our President, to secure our nation and to ensure the future of all Filipinos, we need to believe that there are many of us who are prepared to make the supreme sacrifice for our country, especially when called upon. Many Filipinos want to be of help. Let us respectfully convey to our president that we eagerly await his inspirational leadership by doing what is right for our country. *** Albert del Rosario is chair of ADR Institute. He is formerly secretary of foreign affairs and ambassador of the

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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Dateline PhiliPPines

Immigration: Leave order vs Sister Patricia Fox stays by Kristine Joy

Philstar.com

Patag

MANILA — The leave order against Australian Sister Patricia Fox—who has been at the receiving end of President Rodrigo Duterte’s tirades—stays. The Bureau of Immigration denied with finality Fox’s motion for reconsideration on the cancellation of her missionary visa on Wednesday, May 23. In a statement, Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said: “This order is final and executory. We will not entertain any further Motion for Reconsideration.” Morente chairs the threemember Board of Commissioners that junked Fox’s appeal. He said that a notice was sent to the Australian missionary, through her legal counsel, “advising her of the steps needed for complying with the order to leave.” On April 25, the Immigration forfeited Fox’s missionary visa, citing her “involvement in partisan political activities.”

BI said that the board cited the photo of Fox holding a placard calling for the release of all political prisoners in the country in its decision to affirm the forfeiture of her visa. Duterte on April 19 said that he is taking full responsibility for the investigation of Fox. In his later speeches, the firebrand leader lashed out at the 71-year-old nun and said that she has a “shameful mouth.” The Australian missionary appealed the cancellation of her visa on May 3. She argued that BI Intelligence Agent Melody Penelope Gonzales “has no right to define and delimit what constitute the apostolate and missionary works of the Sisters of Our Lady Sion.” The BI said that, in its order, the board said that Fox’s claims that the forfeiture of her visa did not go through due process and her denial of her engagement in political activities “were not backed with solid evidence.” The board also stressed that Fox “acted beyond allowed ac-

tivities under her visa by working outside of Barangay Amihan in Quezon City, the place where she claimed she would render her missionary work when she applied for her visa.” A copy of the order and the resolution has not been made public as of this post. Immigration spokesperson Dana Sandoval clarified that the cancellation of Fox’s visa is separate from the ongoing deportation case against her. She added that pending a resolution on the deportation case, Fox can still return to the country as a tourist. Should she be deported, Fox— BEATING THE HEAT. To beat the heat of the summer season, kids along with their parents dip in the cool waters of a swimming pool at the Bakasyunan who spent the last 27 years in Resort and Conference Center in Tanay, Rizal. The Pilillia Wind Farm could also be seen in the background. PNA photo by Joey Razon the country doing humanitarian aid—will be placed in the blacklist and be barred from entering the country. Fox’s case earned the govbill was expected to be ratified by determined by the Implementing by llanesca Panti ernment strong criticism from Congress later in the day. Rules and Regulations. ManilaTmes.net human rights groups, who said Under the measure, the govThe collection of data on marital that the Immigration order would THe bicameral conference ernment is mandated to collect status, mobile number and email be used to harass and arrest more committee has approved the and store demographic data of address, however, is optional. foreigners critical of the Philip- proposed Philippine Identifica- citizens like: full name, sex, date “All the data that will be regpine government. n tion System (PhilSys), which of birth, blood type, address and istered under the PhilSys will be would allow the government to status as to whether a person is absolutely confidential. Likewise, collect each individual’s demo- a Filipino citizen or a resident the issuance of any information graphic data and information via alien. without consent of the registered biometrics, a lawmaker said on As for biometrics, a techno- person has penal provisions,” Wednesday, My 23. logical and scientific method of Garbin said. Rep. Alfredo Garbin of Ako Bi- authenticating identities, the bill In case of visual or physical imcol party-list, a member of the bi- authorizes the government to col- pairment that makes it impossible cameral panel, which reconciled lect photographs taken from the to capture information on biothe versions of the Senate and front, full set of fingerprints, iris metrics, the Philippine Statistics House of Representatives said the scans, among others, as may be Authority will allow exceptions. n

National ID system approved in Bicam

UST suspends all campus frats, sororities for next school year by ritchel

Mendiola AJPress

THe University of Santo Tomas (UST) has suspended its recognition of all fraternities and sororities and similar organizations in the institution for the next academic year, eight months after law student Horacio “Atio” Castillo III died from apparent hazing. UST’s school paper, The Varsitarian, tweeted a copy of the memorandum on Tuesday night, May 22, that said “the University has decided to suspend the recognition of all Fraternities, Sororities, or similar organizations effective at the start of A.Y. 2018-2019 until further notice.” Office of Student Affairs (OSA) Director Ma. Socorro Guan Hing said the decision was made based on UST’s mandate to protect its students. She also barred organizations from recruiting students to join their ranks. “All fraternities, sororities, or similar organizations are directed to cease and desist from recruiting students or engaging in any

Palace dismisses Duterte’s remarks against women as ‘mere play of words’

The 10 members of the Aegis Juris Fraternity surrendered to the NBI on March 23, barely a day after the Manila court issued a warrant for their arrest. Philstar.com photo by Miguel De Guzman

kind of activities,” Guan Hing’s memorandum read. The suspension of fraternities and sororities is “in light of the recent incident involving the hazing death of a law student and in keeping with the duty of the University to take proactive steps

to protect the students from the danger of participating in activities that will involve hazing,” as stated in the memorandum. Castillo died while undergoing initiation rites with the Aegis Jvris fraternity on September 17, 2017. n

MANILA — Malacañang on Wednesday, May 23, once again defended President Rodrigo Duterte’s recent anti-women remarks, downplaying these as “mere play of words.” “[The president’s] statement reflects his growing frustration over the continuous and non-stop tirades against his administration by the ousted chief justice and the ombudsman,” presidential spokesperson Harry Roque Jr. said in a statement. Last week, the chief executive said that he is ruling out women candidates for the next corruption buster after Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales retires

on July 26. Duterte, in the past, had hurled tirades at female government officials such as Morales, ousted Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, Vice President Leni Robredo and Sen. Leila de Lima. “The appointments of Sec. Bernadette Romulo-Puyat to the Department of Tourism, acting Sec. Virginia Orogo to the Department of Social Welfare and Development and Commissioner Socorro Inting to the Commission on elections not only demonstrate but a proof that women can occupy leadership roles in his government,” Roque said. Roque issued this statement

days after the online campaign #BabaeAko was launched. The campaign is in response to the president’s supposed misogyny and macho-fascism. The president’s mouthpiece earlier said that there is no discrimination against women in the government. Duterte is often criticized for his anti-women remarks, saying such comments encourage objectification and violence against women. His officials and supporters usually dismiss such remarks as instances of “sarcasm” or part of the president’s supposed humor. n

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EARLY VOTE: MAY 26-JUNE 8 PRIMARY ELECTION: JUNE 12 For voting locations visit www.DinaTitus.com

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VEGAS&STYLE

Journal ‘Fresh Off The Boat’, ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ and beyond: the state of Asian American representation in film and TV by Klarize Medenilla AJPress

WHEN the first trailer for the upcoming summer flick “Crazy Rich Asians” dropped on April 23, 2018, Twitter’s Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community went bananas. Based off the 2013 novel by Kevin Kwan, “Crazy Rich Asians” (out Aug. 17, 2018) stars Constance Wu (“Fresh Off The Boat”) and Malaysian-British Henry Golding (in his feature film debut) as the two leads in a romantic comedy about Singaporean social class, the confluence of marriage and love and the generational gap between Asians and Asian Americans. AAPI Twitter users praised the film for leading the charge for cinematic diversity and potentially proving that majority-Asian films can be box office hits. On the same day that the trailer was released, a select few were invited to a special screening of the film and many tweeted the reactions afterward. Rebecca Sun of The Hollywood Reporter nicely summed up the reaction and the film’s significance in one tweet: “Lots of weeping in the theater and smeared eyeliner afterward,”

she wrote. “Crazy Rich Asians is a love letter to Westernized Asians who live in a world that has heretofore largely ignored them.” Sun’s tweet perfectly summarizes the state of AAPI film and television representation and the opportunities this film could potentially open up for Asian artists in the entertainment industry at large: it’s the first non-martial arts film backed by a major studio (Warner Bros.) to feature an allAsian cast telling a cultural story that Asian Americans will likely resonate with. AAPIs in Hollywood have come a long way from blatant whitewashing, fetishism and various egregious stereotypes to the refreshingly vibrant “Crazy Rich Asians” (which also stars Fil-Am actor Nico Santos of NBC’s “Superstore” and Filipina entertainer Kris Aquino). However, the current state of Asian and Asian American representation in the stories we see on film and television are far from where they ought to be, according to filmmakers, actors and other industry leaders. In an age where diversity in entertainment is the hot issue of the moment, Asians continue to be slighted in the conversation to include non-white individuals on

The cast of “Crazy Rich Asians” poses with Filipino-American actor Dante Basco.

From left: Jasmine Curtis and Daniel Padilla help build lights for Marawi. Philstar.com photos

Daniel Padilla, Jasmine Curtis help Marawi rehab efforts

WHEN war fell on Marawi, the city was not the only thing left ravaged. Close to 400,000 Filipinos were displaced from their homes by the five-month siege that lasted from May to October 2017. Fleeing to safety, they abandoned their property, their sources of livelihood. Marawi suffered more than P17 billion in damaged infrastructure, private properties and

economic activities during the course of the war. Many were on the brink of hopelessness, not knowing how to rebuild from the ashes. Evacuees struggled in temporary shelters and refugee sites with no electricity. The darkness around the city did not just make the situation difficult and unsafe, but also gave perpetuated fear among PAGE B3

In the footsteps of The Rock The movie poster for “Crazy Rich Asians,” which will be released on August 17, 2018. Poster courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

and off screen. A 2016 diversity study from USC Annenberg provided an even more stark contrast and found that, in

Chinese-American actress and event hostess Kelly Hu at the first annual Lunar New Year Soiree hosted by Lexus on Thursday, March 1. AJPress file photos by Noel Ty

a survey of more than 800 films from 2007 to 2015, Asian actors only had 3.9 percent of speaking roles in films compared to the 73.7 percent white actors received. In 2014 alone, only 1.4 percent of lead characters in studio films were Asian. The television landscape (which features programs set in heavily diverse cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York City), perhaps, shows the most egregious neglect of actors of color. A multiuniversity study released found that white actors continue to dominate series regular roles; nearly 70 percent of series regulars are white while 4.3 percent are AAPI. In 53 percent of shows set in LA and 70 percent set in New York City, there are no AAPI series regulars. The barometer for AAPIs in television jumped in 2014 when Taiwanese-American restaurateur PAGE B4

by ricKy lo Philstar.com

LIKE Dwayne (ex-The Rock) Johnson, Fil-Am mixed martial arts champion Brandon Vera is crossing over from the ring to showbiz. “I am following the path that he has laid down,” Brandon confessed. “I love what he’s doing. He’s a good role model. He has successfully crossed over from fighting to acting. He showed sportsmen that it could be done. A lot of pro-wrestlers have started doing what he has done. Initially, people doubted if he could act. He has proven them wrong. He has become such a good actor that he can make you cry.” Funfare talked to Brandon, the reigning One Championship World Champion, before the signing of the agreement between producers Dondon Monteverde’s Reality Entertainment and the Sunson Group Limited of Hong Kong for the production of a

Brandon Vera

Philstar.com photo

movie (with the working title The Wind Breezes On) which will pit Brandon with Hong Kong action star Dennis To (Ip Man, Bodyguards and Assassins, Ip Man 2 and The Legend is Born). To be directed by Chinese/British national Sean Yim, the movie will start shooting in November, PAGE B3

Features

B may 24-30, 2018 • LaS VEGaS aSIaN JOURNaL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678

Asian Community Development Council’s open house and API Heritage Month Celebration Las Vegas, Nevada — To celebrate the asian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the asian Community Development Council (aCDC), held an open house on saturday, May 12 from 10am - 12pm at the asian Community Center at 2610 s Jones Blvd, suite 3, Las Vegas, NV 89146.

“We are excited for this unique opportunity to showcase our work and highlight our coalition partner organizations here in Las Vegas.” said Vida Lin, President & Founder of aCDC. “It’s also a great time for our communities to come together and celebrate the asian and Pacific Islanders

Heritage Month to celebrate our diversity within the community.” The event’s highlights included Taiko Drum performances, appearances from elected officials, and recognition of coalition partners. The open house also featured the introduction the leadership of aCDC and the New Board Chair - Carolene Layugan, the Director of Responsible gaming Program

Director and Property engagement at Caesars entertainment. Board members that were present during the event include: Carolene Layugan, Lisa song sutton, Lyzel Krebs, Peter and Joanie Lung, Michael Hoshue, and Pauline Lee. “Caesars entertainment seeks to support vibrant, diverse, and healthy communities in which we operate. aCDC is not only a great collaborator in celebrating the asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month but also a great resource and leader for the communities.” stated Carolene Layugan on her new role as the board chair. The open house introduced aCDC’s various programs and promoted the coalition partners that are also serving the fast-growing and vibrant asian and Pacific Islander americans (aPIas) communities. The coalition partners’ work ranges from civic engagement such as voter registration, immigration workshop, youth development, and health education. scholarship grants were given to: Brian Dang, Kenny Pham, and Michael Le. among the coalition partners order that were recognized on saturday’s Open House are: • asian Pacific Islanders Nursing association (aaPINa) • Columbian association of Las Vegas (COLaVe)

SOUTHBAY PAVILION MALL 20700 South Avalon Boulevard Carson, California 90746

AJPress photos by Robert Macabagdal

• Japan america society of Nevada (JasN) • Korean association of Las Vegas (KaLV) • Leaders in Training (LIT) • National Federation of Filipino american associations (NaFFaa) • OCa Las Vegas • Rising asian Pacific americans Coalition for Diversity (RaPaCD) • seek Jesus First Ministries The event was free and open to the public. established in 2014, the mission of the asian Community Development Council (aCDC), a 501c3 non-profit organization, is to improve the general well-being and education of the asian & Pacific Islander and other ethnic communities in Nevada. The aCDC will promote, foster, champion and advocate for asian americans and Pacific Islanders in the greater Nevada community. For more information, please visit www.acdcnv. org.

AUGUST 4-5, 2018 www.TRAVELTRADECONSUMER.com ATTENDEES & INDUSTRY EXHIBITORS 01 Business-to-Business

02 Business-to-Government

03 Business-to-Customer

Meet, connect, and collaborate with industry partners and streamline your business results.

Connect with leaders in the public and private sector from across the US region and Philippines.

Whether you're shopping for new and amazing products or a vendor looking to promote your product, this event is designed for you.

04 Filipino-Americans in Southern California

05 American Mainstream in Los Angeles County

06 American Mainstream in Orange County

TOURISM SECTOR

TRADE & INVESTMENT

SPONSOR INDUSTRIES

01 Travel Destinations 02 Medical Tourism 03 Gaming & Entertainment 04 Retirement 05 Education

01 Agricultural 02 Real Estate 03 Franchising 04 Small Business Opportunities 05 Financial Management

01 Government Ministries 02 American Businesses 03 Philippine Businesses

PROUDLY PRESENTED BY

IN COLLABORATION WITH

Barbie Forteza returns to primetime with new rom-com aWaRD-winning young actress Barbie Forteza returns to primetime as she spreads good vibes and kilig via gMa Network’s latest offering “Inday Will always Love You” beginning this week. Produced by gMa News and Public affairs, the newest romcom series puts the Queen City of the south in the spotlight as it showcases the unique beauty and rich culture of Cebu making it one of the top destinations for international and local tourism. “Inday Will always Love You” will also paint the stories of Cebuanos and of the Filipino family as seen through the eyes of the Manileña girl Happylou Magtibay, played by Forteza. a bubbly and optimistic girl, Inday Happylou is a lechon store assistant whose life makes a topsy-turvy turn when she makes a career move away from Manila in search for her father in Cebu. sharing her excitement over her upcoming primetime series, Forteza shared that “Inday Will always Love You” is the perfect project for her after the success of her last series “Meant To Be.” “Wala akong maisip na iba pang-comeback na show kasi talagang binigyan ito ng effort. Teasers pa lang, kita n’yo na agad yung visuals, yung story relatable talaga. and natutuwa ako kasi kapag nagpu-post ako ng teasers, yung mga Cebuano ang nagku-comment kasi andun sila mismo. Sobrang excited sila. Nakakatuwa kasi parang nilibot namin sila sa Cebu,” the actress proudly shared.

Barbie is Happylou Magtibay

GMA photo

Joining Forteza in spreading kilig are Derrick Monasterio who in the series plays Patrick, a rich Cebuano bachelor and Juancho Trivino who breathes life to her good friend, ernest. The show also marks the return to the small screen of the much-loved DerBie love team after their successful team-up in “The Half sisters.” adding color to Happylou’s journey of love and family drama are some of the country’s veteran actors led by Ricky Davao, Manilyn Reynes, Nova Villa, gladys Reyes, and Tina Paner. at the helm of this new series are directors Monti Parungao and Rember gelera with head writers Zig Dulay and Nathan arciaga. (ManilaTimes.net)

EntErtainmEnt

(702) 792-6678 â€˘ http://www.asianjournal.com

Bea Alonzo starts again by Raymond

ang

Philstar.com

YEs, itâ€™s complicated with Gerald Anderson. Bea Alonzo opens up to The Star. if youâ€™ve done enough celebrity interviews, you know there are only two ways stars address controversy â€” either they talk about it head on, dangling juicy tidbits to reporters hungry for clickbait, or they ignore it entirely, acting as if no one in the world is wondering about that baby bump or the messy divorce interviewing Bea Alonzo this afternoon comes with a few handicaps: (1) sheâ€™s done numerous interviews to promote her new movie, the Ruel Bayanidrama â€œKasalâ€?, (2) sheâ€™s managed to survive several high-profile interviews without having to address the elephant in the room, (3) the elephant in the room is the are-they-or-arenâ€™t-they breakup rumors with her boyfriend of two years, Gerald Anderson, (4) the only time sheâ€™s addressed the issue was in a short interview with ABs-CBn news, where she could get away with a succinct â€œtechnically single,â€? and (5) i know Bea personally â€” i might even be brave enough to say weâ€™re friends. Do i really want to be the person who grills Bea Alonzo, the so-called new Queen of Movies, this generationâ€™s beloved Basha, a stubbornly human-scale superstar whoâ€™s traded on simple decency rather than vampy charisma or dramatic hysteria to get where she is â€” and outside of that, a smart, simple 30-year-old whoâ€™s somehow let me into her personal circle just because of a few good conversations â€” about her recent heartbreak? i battle with myself throughout our interview, until halfway through, she answers a question about why she decided to do Kasal, and how it fits within the â€œBea Alonzoâ€? box, with an answer about something else entirely. â€œNaka-relate ako sa role na Lia [in â€˜Kasalâ€™] because all my life, iâ€™ve always strived for a normal life, to conform,â€? she begins. â€œUnang una, sa itsura ko, i was the only mestiza in school. â€˜Yung nanay ko, hindi siya mestiza. â€˜Yung kapatid ko, hindi siya mestizo. Tapos i came from a broken family. Buong buhay ko, ang gusto ko lang, maging ordinary, maging normal.â€? â€œso in terms of my boxâ€Ś Hindi lang siya professional. i learned

Bea Alonzo

Philstar.com photo by Regine David

so much about life through Lia. Forgiveness, true happiness, loving a person no matter what, loving a very, very imperfect person, and choosing love above all the mistakes that that person did â€” ang daming anoâ€Ś. Para rin siyang personal emotional journey. so parang sumabay nga siya eh, ang gandaâ€Śâ€? she puts on a brave smile then laughs. The last time Bea was on the cover of Supreme, it was in July 2016, she was promoting the Dan Villegas rom-com â€œHow to Be Yoursâ€?, and she was on the cover with Gerald Anderson, her co-star in the movie. Reflecting on a time in 2010 when she and Gerald embarked on a doomed, short-lived romance, she said, â€œit feels weird to be able to talk about this now. Back then i was forbidden to even look at him.â€? â€œHow to Be Yoursâ€? proved the spark that rekindled their romance and by all accounts, theyâ€™ve been together since then. The only sign that there was trouble in paradise came in March this year, when Bea unfollowed both Gerald and his â€œMy Perfect Youâ€? co-star Pia Wurtzbach. The couple was eventually said to have patched things up, and Anderson cleared Wurtzbachâ€™s name amid the rumors that she was involved in the conflict. â€œWhatâ€™s the difference between being single where you are now, and being single where you were at 27?â€? i ask her. â€œ O b v i o u s l y, n g a y o n n a kaka-pressure kasi iâ€™m already 30. Parang habang lahat ng tao nagpapakasal, nakikipag break ako.â€? she allows herself to laugh at the irony and then demures. â€œNabigla ako when they asked [if weâ€™re still together] kasi i didnâ€™t expect that they would

askâ€Ś Okay, i shouldâ€™ve expected that they would ask. i was stupid not to expect that. Everybodyâ€™s talking about it â€” wow, feeling ko naman relevant ako,â€? she laughs but what she said was true. â€œi guess there are people who are talking about it since the whole instagram thing.â€? â€œAng hirap kasi niya ipaliwanag and i feel like at 30, dapat nga â€˜di ko na pinapaliwanagâ€Ś,â€? she continues. â€œWeâ€™re talking. Pinagdadaanan namin siya ng sabay. Feeling ko, itâ€™s not that final. i donâ€™t know where itâ€™s going to go, if itâ€™s going to be a final breakup orâ€Ś you know? i donâ€™t really know. Ang hirap rin niya i-label na, â€˜single na ako,â€™ at, â€˜Wala na kamiâ€™ habang nag uusap pa kami at tinatrabaho pa, baka meron pangâ€Śâ€? she lets that last statement linger. she knows how it looks. Even without details, followers of local entertainment have assumed certain details about the situation, how he must have done her wrong, how theyâ€™re working things out because sheâ€™s giving him another chance. â€œiâ€™m happy for those people na ang dali nila mag [decide]. May finality agad sa decisions nila. Thatâ€™s not who i am and maybe iâ€™m flawed, but thatâ€™s fine with me,â€? she says. â€œi donâ€™t want regrets in the end.â€? â€œi think itâ€™s brave of you to be honest about that,â€? i tell her. â€œAt 30, i think i should be honest about that,â€? she shoots back, laughing. *** The marketing for â€œKasalâ€? will have you believe that itâ€™s another film about a love triangle and a wedding. Truth be told, â€œKasalâ€? is more interesting than that. itâ€™s PAGE B6

FOOTSTEPS OF JESUS Madaba,Mt Nebo,Petra,Aqaba,Jordan

(Tiberias, Ceasarea, Haifa, Meggido,Magdala, Nazareth, Cana, Mt Carmel, Capernaum, Mt Beatitude, Jericho, Bethany, Mt.Tabor, Mount Zion, Mt. of Olives, Old & New Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Qumran, Masada Dead Sea,Allenby Bridge, Madaba, Mt Nebo Petra, Aqaba Jordan)

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL â€˘ mAy 24-30, 2018

PAL round trip giveaway at South Bay Trade Exhibit AsiAn Journalâ€™s highly anticipated Travel, Trade and Consumer Exhibit is set to stir the Filipino-American community. People who register in person on August 4 and 5 at south Bay Pavilion shall have the chance to win a round trip ticket to Manila, courtesy of Philippine Airlines, one of the main exhibitors. This exciting and generous offer, which will include 3 days and 2 nights in a hotel in Manila is one of the highlights of the most awaited events this year. To be held at the south Bay Pavilion Mall, Philippine products and businesses shall be showcased for two days, that summer weekend in August. People shall have a chance to discover and rediscover Philip-

Oct 19, 2018 (Fri) Day 2 â€“ Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv/ Tiberias Ćž "/ 4" )" / **&$/ 1&,+ +! 201,*0Çž 4" 4&)) *""1 ,2/ ), ) $2&!"Çž 4%, 4&)) " 4&1% 20 !2/&+$ ,2/ 01 6 &+ ,)6 +!Ç˝ "+',6 1%" - +,/ *& 3&"4 ,# 1%" "!&1"// +" +Ç˝ " 4&)) 0-"+! ,2/ Ćœ /01 +&$%1 in Tiberias. Dinner and overnight (D). Beach Holy Eucharist Oct 20, 2018 (Sat) Day 3 â€“ Tiberias/ Meggido/ Nazareth/ Cana/ Mt Tabor We will have short stop in Meggido and the Plains of We will have short stop in Meggido and the Plains of Armageddon, known in Hebrew as Meggido, a giant fortress and City built by King Solomon.

+ 1%" "4 "01 *"+1 ,,( ,# "3") 1&,+Çž &1 &0 /"#"//"! 0 1%" 0&1"0 ,# 1%" ČŠĆœ + ) 11)"Č‹Ç˝ /,* 1%"/"Çž 4" 4&)) ,+1&+2" ,2/ !/&3" &+1, Nazareth, where we will have Mass in the Church of the Annunciation ,the Cave of the Annunciation and and visit Josephâ€™s Work0%,- +! %"+ 4" 4&)) *,3" ,+ 1, + ,# )&)""Çž 4%"/" 2/ ,/! -"/#,/*"! &0 Ćœ /01 *&/ )"Çż % +$&+$ 4 1"/ &+1, 4&+" 1 1%" 4"!Č’ ding feast. We will invite couples to Bless their marriage vows,Con1&+2" 1, ,2+1 ,/ Çž0&1" ,# "020 / +0Ćœ $2/ 1&,+Ç˝ Ćž "/4 /!Çž 4" will head to Tiberias. Dinner and overnight in Tiberias. (B/D). Oct 21, 2018 (Sun) Day 4 â€“ Tiberias/Mount Beatitude/ Multiplication / Primacy/ Capernum/Boat Ride â€œBlessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heavenâ€? Early AM departures to Mt. Beatitude Drive up to Mount Beatitudes, visit the site of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus preached to the people., Eucharistic Celebration . "+',6 0 "+& , 1 /&!" /,00 1%" " ,# )&)"" 1, -"/+ 2*Çž %,*" ,# 2/ ,/! !2/&+$ %&0 *&+&01/6Ç˝ Ćž "/ 3&0&1&+$ 1%" 6+ $,$2" where he taught, proceed to Tabgha, the site of the miracle of the ), 3"0 +! Ćœ 0%"0Ç˝ %"+ 1, 1%" %2/ % /&* 6 ,# 1 "1"/0Ç˝ Č› Çž Čœ Oct 22, 2018 (Mon) Day 5 â€“ Magdala 2)) ! 6 /"1/" 1Çž , 20 4&)) + )2!" -/,$/ *0 0"! ,+ 1%" %&01,/&Č’ ) +! ")&$&,20 3 )2" ,# 1%" $! ) 0&1"0 More info coming up as we get closer to the dates Çž 0/ ") Č” Ç—Ç•Ç•Çž &0 ,3"/&"0 #/,* +"4 / % ",),$& ) !&$ are creating excitement in the area where Jesus began his ministry. The village is called Magdala (Migdal in Hebrew), and itâ€™s the %,*" ,# /6 $! )"+"Ç˝Č‹ %" )&3"! %"/" +! 0%" *"1 "020 %"/" and she continued with Him. Yes, itâ€™s that place The most important discovery in Magdala has been a synagogue dating back to the 1&*" ,# "020Ç˝ ,/!&+$ 1, / % ",),$&010Çž &1Č‰0 1%" Ćœ /01 ,+" !&0 ,3Č’ "/"! &+ 1%" )&)""Ç˝ Oct 23, 2018 (Tues) Day 6 â€“ Jordan Valley/ Jericho/ Bethany/ Jerusalem Mass at the Church in Bethany Ćž "/ /" (# 01Çž 4" %" ! 1, "/& %,Çž 1%" ,)!"01 &+% &1"! &16 &+ 1%" 4,/)!Ç˝ &"4 1%" ,2+1 ,# "*-1 1&,+Çž 4%"/" "020 0-"+1 Ç™Ç• days fasting in the desert. We will visit the ancient ruins of the wall. We will continue to Bethany and will have mass to celebrate Holy 2 % /&01 1 1%" %2/ % ,# 1Ç˝ 7 /20Ç˝ %"+ 4" 4&)) 3&0&1 1%" -Č’ 1&0* ) 0&1" &+ &3"/ ,/! +Ç˝ -,+ //&3 ) &+ ,2+1 ,-20 *" +&+$ Mount of the Watchmen/Sentinels, is a mountain in northeast Je/20 )"*Ç˝ +',6 1%" Ćœ /01 3&"4 ,# "/20 )"*Ç˝ Ćž "/ 1%" ! 6Č‰0 1,2/Çž 4" will check in at our hotel in Jerusalem (B/D) Oct 24, 2018 (Wed) Day 7 â€“ Jerusalem (Old City)/ Via Dolorosa/ Mount Zion Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher â€œAnd he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place ,# 0(2))Çž 4%& % &0 ))"! &+ 1%" " /"4 ,)$,1% Ç˝Č‹ Č› ,%+ Ç–ÇžÇżÇ–ÇœČœ We will enter the Old City of Jerusalem and will follow the Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross) and say the Station of the Cross to the holiest shrine in Christendom, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, 3&0&1 ,)$,1% +! 1%" ,* ,# 2/ ,/!Ç˝ Ćž "/ * 00Çž 4" /"12/+ 1, the hotel for breakfast. Ćž "/ /" (# 01Çž 4" 4&)) "+1"/ 1%" )! &16Çž 0&+$ %6*+ &+ 1%" Church of St. Anne and view the Pool of Bethesda. Then we will 3&0&1 1%" % -") ,# ) $")) 1&,+Çž &1%,01/ 1,0 Č›4%"/" 1%" 0,)!&"/0 -) 6"! 1%" *" ,# &+$0Čœ +! 1%" / % ,# 1%" ČŠ " ,*,Č‹Ç˝ Dinner/Overnight

Oct 25, 2018 (Thurs) Day 8 â€“ Jerusalem Mass at the Holy Eucharist Church of St Peter in Gallicantu ČŠ %" ,/! " *" Ć? "0% +! !4")1 *,+$ 20Ç˝Ç˝Ç˝Č‹ Č› ,%+ Ç–ÇżÇ–Ç™Čœ " 4&)) 4 )( 1, 3&"4 1%" ,*" ,# 1%" , ( #/,* 1%" ,210&!"Çž +! visit the Western Wall,( Wailing Wall ) the only part of the Herodian Temple still standing and the most sacred place in the world for "40Ç˝ %"+Çž 4" 4&)) !/&3" 1, 1Ç˝ &,+Çž 1, 3&0&1 1%" --"/ ,,*Çž /"Č’ 3"/"! 0 1%" 0&1" ,# 1%" 01 2--"/Çž 1%"+ 02/3"6 1%" ,/*&1&,+ "6Çž +! 1%" %2/ % ,# 1Ç˝ "1"/ &+ ))& +12Çž %" 0&1" 4%"/" "1"/ !"+&"! "020 1%/"" 1&*"0Ç˝ Ćž "/ 1%" ! 6Č‰0 1,2/Çž we will return to our hotel for dinner and overnight. Jerusalem (B, D) Oct 26, 2018 (Fri) Day 9 â€“ Mount of Olives/ Gethsemane/ Bethlehem/ Jerusalem (New City)/ Ein Karem Mass at the Church of Nativity ČŠ *,2+1 &+ ,# ,!Çž /" "&3" *"Çž *,1%"/Çž 4&1% *6 %&)!Ç˝Č‹ Č› /,1,Č’ "3 +$")&2* ,# *"0 Ç—Ç—ÇżÇ˜Čœ " 4&)) //&3" 1 1%" ,2+1 ,# )&3"0Çž 1, "+',6 +,1%"/ 3&"4 ,# "/2Č’ salem, visit the Chapel of Ascension, Pater Noster Church and the ,*&+20 )"3&1 Č›ČŠ ,! 4"-1Č‹Čœ 0 + 12 /6Ç˝ "51Çž 4"Č‰)) 4 )( 1%" )* 2+! 6 , ! 1, 1%" /!"+ ,# "1%0"* +"Çž +! 3&0&1 1%" , ( ,# $,+6 +! 1%" %2/ % ,# )) 1&,+0Ç˝ + 1%" Ćž "/+,,+Çž 4"Č‰)) !/&3" to Bethlehem, a city whose name is recognized around the world. Ćž "/ ")" / 1&+$ 00 1 1%" %2/ % ,# 1&3&16Çž 4" 4&)) 0"" 1%" +$"/Č€ 3&0&1 1%" %2/ % ,# 1Ç˝ 1%"/&+"Çž 1%" /,11, ,# 1Ç˝ "/,*" +! 1%" %"-%"/!0Č‰ &")!0Ç˝ Then we will return to Jerusalem (New City), to view the Temple Model to see how it looked during the time of Jesus. Here, we will gain a better understanding between the old and new cities of "/20 )"*Ç˝ - +"51 &0 1/&- 1, &+ /"*Çž &/1%-) " ,# 1Ç˝ ,%+ the Baptist, to see the Visitation Church, where Mary proclaimed %"/ # *,20 ČŠ $+&Ćœ 1Č‹Ç˝ " 4&)) "+! ,2/ ! 6 6 /"12/+&+$ 1, ,2/ Hotel. (B/D) Oct 27, 2018 (Sat) Day 10 â€“ Jerusalem/ Dead Sea/ Qumran/ Masada Mass at the Church of all Nations Ćž "/ /" (# 01Çž 4" 4&)) ")" / 1" * 00 1 1%" %2/ % ,# )) 1&,+0 and then we will drive to Dead Sea, the lowest spot on earth. Visit Qumran; see the caves where the Dead Sea scrolls were discovered. Continue to Masada, visit Herodâ€™s fortress and the Jewâ€™s last 01/,+$%,)! $ &+01 1%" ,* +Ç˝ "12/+ 1, "/20 )"* #,/ !&++"/ and Overnight (B, D) Oct 28, 2018,(Sun) Day 11 â€“ Jerusalem/ Allenby Bridge/ Madaba /Jordan/ Mt. Nebo/ Aqaba Mass at Mount Nebo On this day, we head to Allenby Bridge and cross into Jordan. We 4&)) $, 1, 1%" -1&0* ) &1" 1 "1% +6Çž 4%& % ,-" ,%+ 2)

3&0&1"! &+ Ç—Ç•Ç•Ç•Ç˝ %"+Çž &1Č‰0 ,+ 1, ,2+1 " ,Çž 4%"/" ,0"0 3&"4"! 1%" /,*&0"! +!Ç˝ 2/ +"51 01,- 4&)) " 1%" %2/ % ,# 1Ç˝ ",/$" &+ ! Çž 4%& % %,010 1%" # *,20 *,0 & * - ,# 1%" ,)6 +!Ç˝ Then we will drive down to Aqaba. Overnight in Aqaba (B/D). Mov"+-& ( "0,/1 Ç” "0&!"+ "Ç˝ Oct 29, 2018 (Mon) Day 12 â€“ Aqaba/Petra Mass at Stella Maris Church â€“ Aqaba Ćž "/ /" (# 01Çž 4" 4&)) ',2/+"6 1%/,2$% 1%" &.Çž 2+1&) 4" $"1 ,2/ Ćœ /01 $)&*-0" ,# 1%" % 7+"% Č› /" 02/6ČœÇ˝ %"+ 4&)) 4" 4 )( !,4+ 1, visit the Temple and view the many caves all around the Theater. At the end of the tour, we will drive back to Aqaba for overnight and !&++"/ Č› ČĄ ČœÇ˝ ,3"+-& ( "0,/1 Ç” "0&!"+ " Oct 30, 2018 (Tues) Day 13 â€“ Aqaba/ Jerusalem We Cross the Jordanian Border to return to Jerusalem. Dinner/ Overnight Oct 31, 2018 (Wed) Day 14 â€“ Jerusalem /Yad Vashem Museum/ TLV/ LAX Ćž "/ /" (# 01Çž 4" 4&)) 3&0&1 1%" ! 0%"* 20"2*Çž&0 0/ ")Č‰0 ,Ć› & & ) *"*,/& ) 1, 1%" 3& 1&*0 ,# 1%" ,), 201Ç˝ 1 &0 !"!& 1"! to preserving the memory of the dead; honoring Jews who fought $ &+01 1%"&/ 7& ,--/"00,/0 +! "+1&)"0 4%, 0")Ć? "00)6 &!"! Jews in need; and researching the phenomenon of the Holocaust in particular and genocide in general, with the aim of avoiding 02 % "3"+10 &+ 1%" #212/"Ç˝ Ćž "/ 1%" "01"/+ ))Çž ! 0%"* &0 1%" 0" ,+!Č’*,01Č’3&0&1"! 0/ ")& 1,2/&01 0&1"Ç˝ "12/+ 1, 1%" %,1") #,/ )2+ % +! /") 5 1&,+ &+ -/"- / 1&,+ #,/ ,2/ /"12/+ Ć? &$%1 ( 1, 1%" Ćž "/ !&++"/ 4&)) " 1/ +0#"//"! 1, 1%" &/-,/1 #,/ Ç–ÇżÇ•Ç• * )&$%1 ,3 Ç–ÇžÇ—Ç•Ç–Ç? Č› %2/0! 6Čœ

pine-made items, and the chance to explore travel deals through the exhibitors. Filipino food and delicacies will be available in a pop-up area across the main entrance. Entertainment at the Main stage and business presentations in the B2B area are geared towards inspiring and promoting trade and business in the FilipinoAmerican community. To join the raffle, just sign up in person during 11-8pm on August 4, saturday and 10-2pm on August 5, sunday. Only one entry per person, and you must have a working email address. Drawing will be held during the 3-5pm block at the Main stage Area. south Bay Pavilion is located at 20700 s Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90746. (Advertisng Supplement)

Daniel Padilla, Jasmine Curtis help Marawi... PAGE B1 evacuees who were unsure of what the next days would bring. in september 2017, PepsiCo and Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines inc. in partnership with Myshelter Foundationâ€™s Liter of Light went to work to provide the community with sustainable sources of light. To get more hands into the

project, the team also engaged their brand ambassadors Daniel Padilla, Jasmine Curtis-smith, national University volleyball player Jaja santiago, and Magic 89.9 radio jocks Tin Gamboa (DJ suzy), Anthony James Bueno (Tony Toni), and Eric Virata (slick Rick) to help build solar gasera lights in October 2017 for delivery to Marawi. Each â€œgaseraâ€? light is made of LED

bulbs wired to miniature solar panels using a copper board. it houses rechargeable batteries similar to those found in computers. To date, the team with the help of Marawi community leaders have distributed 1,000 solar gasera lamps and installed 200 street lights in the city and the temporary shelters. (Philstar. com)

In the footsteps of The Rock PAGE B1 70 percent in the Philippines and 30 percent in Hong Kong. itâ€™s the story of two fathers whose worlds collide when Ko (Dennis), a former bodyguard from Hong Kong, and Brandon, an undercover cop from Manila, team up â€œin a hunt for vengeance and salvation.â€? it will be released early next year in both countries. The Wind Breezes On is actually Brandonâ€™s third movie, following Buy Bust (with Anne Curtis, directed by Erik Matti), showing in August, and Hawa (director and leading lady not yet revealed) which starts shooting next month. in Buy Bust, Brandon plays a PDEA agent and in Hawa, a survivor of the apocalypse trying to protect his family after the spread of a deadly virus. â€œMy role in Buy Bust as an agent is not good and not bad,â€? explained Brandon whose body, like that of The Rock, is decorated with tattoos. â€œitâ€™s a movie that

is anti-drugs, anti-corruption, anti-everything. itâ€™s an amazing, intriguing movie that you have to watch twice. Hawa is some kind of a zombie apocalypse, with the script written two years ago.â€? Asked how different acting was from fighting, Brandon broke into a wide smile. â€œ Yo u k n o w,â€? h e s a i d , â€œi trained for my movie like i trained for a fight. i got hurt on the set more than i was in the ring. A lot of action was happening on the set and you donâ€™t have any control of it. i felt different from the start of the shoot to the end. i was nervous and uptight but soon, i got the hang of it. Toward the end, i was having a good time; i felt as if i was just hanging out with my cousins. i totally enjoyed it.â€? A permanent Philippine resident since two years ago, Brandon came to the presscon with his also Fil-Am wife, Jessica Renee Craven Vera, who was born and raised in

san Diego, California. They got married a month ago in Guam where, according to Jessica, they started dating. â€œsince i was a kid,â€? added Brandon, â€œi always wanted to live in the Philippines. iâ€™m happy that we are finally here to start our own family. itâ€™s a grinding year for me. iâ€™m shooting two movies and preparing to defend my title in late this year.â€? now that he is in showbiz, is he giving up fighting for good? â€œno way am i turning my back on fighting,â€? stressed Brandon. â€œi donâ€™t know if i can or if i will ever give up fighting. Everybody says, â€˜You will know when you are ready to retire.â€™ Weâ€™ll see. iâ€™m still enjoying everything that iâ€™m doing. i enjoy the training including the hardship of it all.â€? Of course, his mind is set on his big dream. â€œsomeday, i want to work with The Rock. Thatâ€™s my ultimate goal.â€?

Pilgrimage to Some of ITALYâ€™s Highlights and Miracles of the Eucharist Nov 12, 2018 to Nov 22,2018 Spiritual Director REV.JOEL BUGAS

OCTOBER 18 to Nov 1, 2018 SPIRITUAL CHAPLAIN: REV. ANTONIO FLORES Oct 18, 2018 (Thur) Day 1 â€“ Lax to Tel Aviv, Israel / +0Č’ 1) +1& Ć? &$%1 #/,* 1, "+ 2/&,+ +1"/+ 1&,+ ) &/-,/1Çž ") 3&3Çž 0/ ")Ç˝ Č› " )0 0"/3"! &+Č’Ć? &$%1Čœ

Day 1 â€“ 12 Nov 2018 â€“ (Mon) Day 2 â€“ 13Nov 2018 â€“ (Tues)

- USA - ROME - Rome -,+ ,2/ //&3 ) &+ ,*"Çž our Tour Escort will wel,*" 20 1, 1 )6Ç˝ ,*" &0 the heart, home and the spiritual capital of over one billion Catholics all ,3"/ 1%" 4,/)!Ç˝ Ćž "/ short panoramic orienta1&,+ ,# 1%&0 1"/+ ) &16 1, 20 ,* + 1%,)& 0Çž 4" 4&)) have our dinner and overnight rest at this great ancient City.

Č› Çž Čœ Day 3 â€“ 14 Nov 2018 (Wed) â€“ Rome / Papal Audience/ Rome

This morning before we continue with our tour, we will % 3" - ) 2!&"+ "Ç˝ %"+ Ćž "/Çž 4" 4&)) 3&0&1 1%" # Č’ *,20 ,)&0"2* +! 0"" 1%" ,/2*Çž 1%" /"3& ,2+1 &+ and the Pantheon, one of the best preserved ancient monuments in the world. Celebrate the Holy Eucharist at St Peter Basilica St Joseph Chapel .Short stop in Trevi ,2+1 &+Çž "#,/" %" !&+$ 1, ,2/ ,1")

Č› Çž Čœ Day 4 â€“ 15 Nov 2018 (Thurs) â€“ Rome / Basilicas We will visit the Vatican Museum this morning and the Sistine Chapel to admire the awesome masterpieces of Michaelangelo, +! "3"+ + &"+1 /""( +! ,Č’ man artists. the largest church &+ ,* + 1%,)& &0*Çž 1Ç˝ "1"/Č‰0 Basilica. Holy Eucharist at ST Mary ',/Çž ,)),4"! 6 3&0&1 ,# 1%" Č’ silica. We continue to visit the rest ,# 1%" * ',/ 0&)& 0 4&1%&+ 1%" 4 ))0 ,# ,*"Çž +! 1Ç˝ ,%+ 1"/Č’ an, St Paul Outside the Wall. We will also pray at the Scala Santa or the Holy Stairs. St. Helena transported the steps from Jerusalem; the same 01"-0 1% 1 %/&01 0 "+!"! 1, /" "&3" &) 1"Č‰0 2+'201 ,+Č’ demnation.

Č› Çž Čœ Day 5 â€“ 16 Nov 2018 (Fri)â€“Rome /San Giovanni Rotondo Ç—Ç•Ç–Ç? &0 1%" Ç–Ç•Ç•1% ++&3"/0 /6 ,# 1%" 01&$Č’ matization of St Pio. Church Will have Monthly Pastoral Program of Activities for the whole year . + &,3 ++& ,1,+!,Çž 1%" %,*" ,# 1 Č’ !/" &, ,# &"1/") &+ #/,* Ç—Ç? 2)6Çž Ç–ÇžÇ–Ç› 2+Č’ 1&) %&0 !" 1% ,+ Ç—Ç˜ "-1"* "/Çž Ç–ÇžÇ›Ç?Ç˝ +',6 1%" !/&3" $,&+$ 1, + &,3 ++&Çž Ćž "/ 4" check in our Hotel. We visit the Shrines of St Padre Pio of Pietralcina as well as the places associated 4&1% %&* Çž 02 % 0 1%" %/&+" ,# 2/ !6 ,# / " 1% 1 contains his tomb. Here, we spend some time meditat&+$Çž 0"" %&0 /,,*Çž %&0 ,+#"00&,+ ) ,5 +! 1%" /2 &Ćœ 5 that gave him his supernatural Crucifying stigmata, Cel" / 1" ,)6 2 % /&01 Č› ,1") / + / !&0, Čœ

+ &,3 ++& ,1,+!, (BB,D) Day 6 â€“ 17 Nov 2018 (Sat) â€“ SAN GIOVANNI ROTONDO This Morning we visit the new and Modern Basilica of St Padre Pio, See his uncorrupt body .Celebrate Holy Eucharist Spend some time meditating in this awesomeBasilica.

Č› ,1") / + / !&0,Čœ Day 7â€“18 Nov2018 â€“ (Sun) â€“ San Giovanni Rotondo / Lanciano /Loreto Ç˝ " //&3" 1 + & +,Çž # *,20 #,/ 1%" &/ )" ,# the Eucharist. Near the Piazza Plebiscito, the Miracle is inside the Sanctuary of the Eucharistic Miracle. The mira)" 1,,( -) " !2/&+$ 1%" Ç?1% "+12/6 when a Basiline monk doubted the " ) /"0"+ " ,# ,2/ ,/! &+ 1%" 2 % /&01Ç˝ " #,2+! %&*Č’ 0")# %,)!&+$ 1%" %,01 1% 1 % ! % +$"! &+1, " ) )"0% +! 1%" &+" ,+ 1%" )1 / % ! % +$"! &+1, " ) ),,!Ç˝ We continue our pilgrimage to the great Marian shrine ,# ,/"1, 1, 0"" 1%" # *,20 0 /"! %,*" ,# 1%" *,01 ,)6 *&)6Çž "020Çž /6Çž +! ,0"-%Ç˝ &+ " Ç–Ç—ÇžÇ™ 1%" %,)6 %,*" % 0 ""+ ), 1"! &+0&!" 1%" 0&)& ,# ,/"1,Ç˝ ")" / 1" ,)6 2 % /&01 &+ + & +, DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN Assisi Day 8 â€“19 Nov 2018 â€“ ( Mon) Loreto/ Assisi ,! 6 4" "5-),/" 1%" %&))1,- &/1%-) " ,# 1 / + &0 ,# 00&0&Ç˝ + 1%" /6-1 ,# 1 / + &0 0&)& )&"0 1%" 1,* ,# one of the most humble and beloved Saints of all times, 1Ç˝ / + &0 ,# 00&0&Çž ,)6 2 % /&01 1 1%" /6-1 ,# / + &0 "" 1%" 0&)& ,# 1 ) /"Çž 4&1% %"/ &+ ,//2-1 body, and the little Church of St. Damiano and its Cru&Ćœ 5 #/,* 4%& % "020 0-,(" 1, / + &0 ,21 %&0 *&0Č’ 0&,+ &+ Ç–Ç—Ç•Ç›Çż ČŠ ,Çž / + &0Çž +! /" 2&)! *6 %,20"Çž 4%& % 0 6,2 0"" &0 # ))&+$ &+1, /2&+Ç˝Č‹ " 3&0&1 1%" 0&)& ,# 1Ç˝ Mary of the Angels, located in the lower plains of Assisi, and the place where the miracle of the Eucharist of Assisi 1,,( -) " &+ Ç–Ç—Ç™Ç•Ç˝ %" 0* )) %2/ % ,# 1%" ,/7&2+ ,Č’ ) &0 &+0&!" 1%" 0&)& &10")#Ç˝ ,-" ,+,/&20

$/ +1"!

a plenary indulgence for those entering this humble %2/ % ,+ 2$201 Ç–01 +! Ç—+! "3"/6 6" /Çž 4&1% ,+#"0Č’ sion, reception of the Eucharist and no attachment to venial sins. (BB,D) Day 9 â€“ 20 Nov 2018 â€“ (Tues) â€“ Assisi / Siena / Florence We will spend half day in Siena. Begin in the old town center with a visit to the Basilica of San Domenico. Built &+ 1%" Ç–Ç˜1% "+12/6Çž &1 &0 1/" 02/" %"01 ,# 1%" "+ &0Č’ sance art and dedicated to St Catherine of Siena. You will learn about the cityâ€™s history while admiring itâ€™s cathedrals, Museum, and libraries .Also you will admire the famous piazza del Campo, one of Europeâ€™s great *"!&"3 ) 0.2 /"0Ç˝ ,+1&+2" 1, ),/"+ "Ç˝ Č› Çž Čœ " 01 /1 4&1% $2&!"! 4 )(&+$ 1,2/ ,# ),/"+ "Çž 1%&0 # 0Č’ cinating city with its Piazza, the Cathedral of Santa Maria !") &,/"Çž &,11,Č‰0 ")) ,4"/Çž 1%" -1&01"/6 ,# 1Ç˝ ,%+ the Baptist. "01 ,# 1%" ! 6 #/"" Č› Çž Čœ Day 10 â€“ 21 Nov 2018 (Wed) â€“ Florence / Rome " 3" ),/"+ " /,2+! Ç— //&3"! ,*" )*,01 !&++"/ time (BB.D) Day 11 â€“ 22 Nov 2018 (Thurs) â€“ Rome / USA End of our wonderful Pilgrimage .

Please call QTS Tour and Travel NOW at 1 (714) 288-0800 or (714) 761-6280 1095 N Main St. Suite O, Orange, CA 92867

B may 24-30, 2018 • LaS VEGaS aSIaN JOURNaL

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‘Fresh Off The Boat’, ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ and beyond... PAGE B1

Luis and Rosemarie Mendez: My ultimate hashtag #couplegoals By Monet

I used to ask myself, “Is there really somebody out there for everyone?” Then I got to know one of the most inspiring couples, Luis and Rosemarie Mendez. I met Luis and Rosemarie in the early 90s while I was doing Reflections in Hyatt Regency Hotel. Rosemarie was still single at the time. One time, she introduced me to her boyfriend (now husband) and I just knew that aside from the guy’s “model looks,” he could be “the one” for Her. True enough, they tied the knot soon after and fast forward to 2 weeks ago; she asked me to be her stylist for their 25th anniversary! The couple renewed their vows at the Little Brown Church in the Valley in studio City. Their close friends, family and relatives went to celebrate with them. so I did what any good friend – and a fan/follower of their love story – would. I asked if I could write about their journey to “happily every after,” to which she gladly obliged. “We met while both employed at The Hyatt Regency Hotel in Los Angeles. My husband and I started as co-workers then friends. We were both involved with other people when we met. As time goes by, our friendship and closeness turned romantic. We end-up going out and became a couple. We got married and we have just celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary.” Rosemarie narrated when I asked her to tell me

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again how they met. Rosemarie works as an executive director at explore Freedom services, Inc. (eFs), a social service program providing supportive living services to adult population with developmental disabilities. His husband Luis oversees Luis e. Mendez & Associates, Inc., which is a service providing money management and payee services to individuals with intellectual disabilities. He is responsible for managing finances, making sure bills are paid on a timely fashion and that funds last to cover the costs of their daily living expenses. Rosemarie describes her husband as kind and generous. “He is a hard worker and is ambitious. He is also caring, God-fearing and is a very supportive husband to me. He is always encouraging and is supportive of my goals and aspirations. He is a wonderful son to his mother, kind brother to his siblings and family. He is a great son-in-law to my mother and a great father,” Rosemarie added. Luis, on the other hand, loves Rosemarie’s sense of humor and considers her to be very har dworking, intelligent, and with a great personality to boot. Luis and Rosemarie were both immigrants. Luis hails from el salvador in Central America and migrated to The united states in the early 80’s. While Rosemarie, migrated to the u.s. shortly after working as a secretary to the late senator ernesto Maceda and his younger brother Boyie Maceda. she was a scholar at the university of the east in Manila in High school and majored in Political

eddie Huang’s memoir “Fresh Off The Boat” was picked up by ABC. While the show has been criticized for creative reasons (Huang has openly criticized the comedic direction the showrunners went), “Fresh Off The Boat” was recently renewed for a 5th season, proof that a series with a majority Asian cast can last in the age of network television decline. The year after “Fresh Off The Boat” expanded the ways in which network sitcoms can be financially solvent, Indian-American comedian Aziz Ansari and TaiwaneseAmerican writer and producer Alan Yang created the emmy and Golden Globe-winning comedy series “Master of None”, a dramatic comedy series about a struggling actor dev (Ansari) and his heterogenous group of friends. “Master of None” was met with praise from critics for bringing cinematic flair to the television front, but more profoundly, it was praised for bringing much needed ethnic, sexual and body diversity and bringing visibility to the unique second-generation Asian American experience. Ansari and Yang have stated that the need for three-dimensional portrayals of Asian Americans was a driving force in their creative direction for the show. An episode that discussed the relationship between AAPI millennials and their immigrant parents earned Ansari and Yang an emmy win for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy series in 2016. In his emmy speech, Yang made a call to action to uplift the creative Asian community: “There [are] 17 million Asian Americans in this country and there are 17 million Italian Americans in this country. They [Italian Americans] have “The Godfather”, “Goodfellas”, “Rocky” and “The sopranos”. We got Long duk dong. so we got a long way to

go. But I believe we can get there. I believe in us. It’s going to take a lot of hard work. Asian parents out there, if you can do me a favor just a couple of you: get your kids cameras instead of violins and we’ll be all good.” Changing Hollywood’s culture While there isn’t necessarily a quick fix to address the issue of cinematic AAPI representation, a two-pronged solution that places responsibility on studios and Asian filmmakers themselves to help change the culture, according to veteran Chinese-American actress Kelly Hu. “I think a lot of it has to do with the people who work behind the scenes, the producers, directors and writers creating these roles,” the Chinese-American actress shared with the Asian Journal in a recent interview. “And also for us to get out there as the Asian community, to go out there and support [other Asian artists]. When there are Asian shows being done to actually watch and go support to show that we can make a huge difference.” Changing culture doesn’t happen overnight. Arguing the financial solvency of Asian stories with studios, improving the ways in which AAPIs are represented and getting them on the screen in the first place feels like a tall order. And it is. But the avenues available to create and produce your own projects are more vast than ever. Korean-American actress and writer Vivian Bang’s career began as many budding actresses’ do: small roles in television roles and largely unseen projects. The 34-year-old actress from seoul, for the span of her nearly 20-year career, grappled with many of the woes experienced by many AAPI actors: scarcity of Asian faces on screen is real, but more insidious are the ways in which Asian faces

science at Trinity College of Quezon City in the Philippines. As with most immigrants, she considered the first few years to be the most challenging. “You are learning to navigate a new country as well as trying to find yourself in a new culture and environment. It took a great deal of determination, hard work and patience. To be in America, someone needs to be a hard worker. Takes courage and patience. I worked two jobs for 7 years to make it. I also made sure that I go back to school to make sure to be able to compete and level with in the playing field. I believe in kindness, credibility is important, being a hard worker and always being humble and keeping your feet to the ground. Always remember where you come from and the people who helped you along the way. I treat people the way I wanted to be treated. do not burn bridges,” she shared. No doubt, Luis fell in love with Rosemarie. she’s such a strong and determined woman. I asked her what could be one of the challenges they encountered as a couple and she answered: “Marrying someone with young children and an ex-wife is not easy on my part. Thankfully, I always have been independent. That helped a lot for me as I have my own life when my husband was busy being a dad to his young children. It helps to be kind and learn to share. In the early years, I have to share Luis for his time. Through God’s help and blessings, together, we were able to overcome our difficulties. “ Luis has two children from his ABC’s family sitcom “Fresh Off the Boat,” loosely inspired by the life of chef and food previous marriage; Jose (30), who personality Eddie Huang. Since its release in 2015, it became the first American TV sitcom PAGE B6 starring an Asian American family to air on primetime since 1994. Poster courtesy of ABC

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are portrayed. In an interview in March, she told the Asian Journal that she believes there’s an “unconscious bias” in the film world and American culture at large wherein there isn’t an active pursuit to shirk AAPIs in entertainment, but there is a noticeable “absence” that has largely gone unnoticed in the system. Asian actors, she said, are too often slighted and are given roles that to represent the scope of their talents. “We have so many stories to tell, and these aren’t ‘niche’ stories,” Bang said, referring to instances where studio heads are hesitant to finance Asian-specific projects for fear of being too esoteric and, potentially, financially insolvent. “These are human stories because, if you haven’t heard, we’re humans! Like, why can’t there just be a show about Asian people just living their lives in LA? We can do so much more than just playing the quirky best friend or the token Asian.” And that’s exactly what she did. she wrote, produced and stars in the upcoming film “White Rabbit”, a dramatic comedy about an LA-based Korean-American performance artist struggling to be heard as a multi-dimensional artist. she wrote “White Rabbit” out of what she calls a necessity for a story that, not only features an Asian female lead but to address the issue of invisibility of the AAPI community in the creative world. “There’s just this really deep reservoir of artists and talent coming from [the AAPI] community which hasn’t been given its rightful exposure. It’s not that we’re not there, it’s that we haven’t been given the chance to really shine, but now we live in this time where we can do that ourselves,” Bang asserted. Addressing diversity Like all issues of culture, many people question the urgency of the diversity problem. does it really matter who we see in our movies and shows? In general, the AAPI population is growing at a rapid rate. The u.s. Census Bureau found that the AAPI community is the fast-growing demographic in the united states and naturalization trends see that continuing for the next several decades. It would benefit the studios looking to turn a large profit and AAPI artists who haven’t been given their due to transform the industry to more accurately represent this new PAGE B6

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‘Say yes!’ to admitting to your mistake Your Immigration Solution Atty. NANcy Miller & ANdA c. KwoNg ARE those bells ringing? With wedding season approaching, many are keeping in mind the traditional rhyme detailing what someone should wear at his or her wedding for good luck: Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in her shoe. With the major backlogs in the American immigration system, life goes on regardless of immigration status. And many noncitizens have decided to get married after finding true love. What happens when “something borrowed” is someone else’s name when the noncitizen entered into the United States? In some cases, individuals utilized assumed names in order to obtain nonimmigrant visas to come to U.S. On rarer occasion, individuals used assumed names and consular processed to enter into the U.S. as permanent residents. Regardless of when, where, or why the noncitizen used the assumed name, if found to have been used in connection with obtaining an immigration benefit, the assumed name is considered to be fraud or material misrepresentation. Fraud is a more grave version of material misrepresentation, but both are categorized as grounds of inadmissibility, thus potentially precluding the granting of a green card and rendering that person a candidate to be removed from the U.S. Cases involving fraud or misrepresentation are serious but waivers are available for those who are applying for a green card and for those who already obtained their green card without disclosing the fraud. We will discuss the latter situation in this

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA

article. The noncitizen is typically placed in removal proceedings in front of an immigration judge (“IJ”). The IJ then has the power or jurisdiction over what happens to the case and whether the noncitizen will be ordered removed to her native country. There may be reasons why noncitizens do not or cannot return to their native countries despite genuine regrets for their unlawful actions. Some reasons include financial obligations, family members who are dependent on them, and medical problems requiring treatment that cannot be easily accessed in the home country. What can be done about this dire situation, especially in a political climate that has perpetuated fear among immigrant communities? With the help of “something old,” which is the existence of laws in place to ensure fairness, noncitizens are protected by certain types of available relief in the immigration court system. While it is intimidating for noncitizens to come forward to try to fix their prior indiscretions, the IJ has the authority and may be willing to grant a discretionary waiver for the fraud or misrepresentation to a noncitizen. To be eligible for this form of relief, the noncitizen must have a qualifying relative and have been in possession of an immigrant visa or otherwise admissible to the U.S. at the time of admission. To clarify, a qualifying relative is U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, son, or daughter. The second requirement means that the noncitizen cannot have had any other inadmissibility aside from the single instance of fraud or misrepresentation (or anything that was a direct result of that fraud) when she was admitted as a permanent resident. Aside from meeting the elements required by law, the waiver applicant must show to the IJ that she is deserving of a favorable exercise of discretion. The IJ will weigh the positive factors against the fraud or misrepresentation and any other negative factors.

The IJ will consider all aspects of the noncitizen’s life, such as presence of family members in the U.S., the presence or lack thereof of family members in the home country, duration of stay in the U.S., length of employment, property ownership and business ties, existence any medical problems, the applicant’s good moral character, the value and contributions to the community, and any other life circumstance that is specific to the applicant. Negative factors are things that show that the applicant is not deserving of relief, such as whether there is a criminal record. If there is a criminal record, the IJ will consider the severity of the crime committed, how long ago it was, and whether there was any rehabilitation. Other negative factors are the failure to file and pay any Federal income taxes, and the failure to support dependents. As such, please hold onto “something new,” which is optimism for the future. Because of the changes that each detail can make whether this relief is available, please discuss the particulars of your case with an immigration attorney. If granted, the waiver reaffirms the green card from the date of its original issuance, which means that the noncitizen may be eligible to immediately apply for naturalization. Upon taking the naturalization oath, the newly sworn-in citizen can obtain a U.S. passport, which is “something blue.” *** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration fi rms in the United States with offi ces in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Manila and China. For more Information please call (800) 7958009 or visit www.rreeves.com. Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case. (Advertising Supplement)

Angels among us “All God’s angels come to us disguised.” –James Russell Lowell

to connect to that power to take effect. If you acknowledge that you as a child of God was given a personal guardian angel from the time God conceived you in His thoughts, there should be no fear in our hearts to face even the unknown. An angelic relationship can be nurtured daily and can grow wonderfully through time until the end of human life. Who knows? In the end, we might be able to see this yet unseen godly presence, link up face to face, do a high-five, even dance a jig and thank our personal guardian angel, whether you gave him a name or not, whether he revealed his name to you or not, when we transition out to a celestial realm ourselves — finally free of ALL heavy worldly concerns and ALL constraints of time, space and gravity. Just perhaps, that light at the end of a long dark tunnel might give us a glimpse of the face of God himself. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com

Last of 4 parts (Continued from last week) AN angel is an invisible presence that must be acknowledged to become ever stronger. God sends angels to keep watch over human beings and help them in every human challenge. There is, however, the element of free will in humans. You can acknowledge the presence of angels or deny it. It is your choice ultimately. The more angels are acknowledged and become a conduit to heaven, they become a hovering, guiding reality in one’s life growing ever stronger in their influence to shape every thought, word and deed in one’s life. On the other hand, if the dark side prevails repeatedly in one’s soul that is made progressively weak by severe addictions of any kind, whether chemical, sexual or the human inclination towards pride, disobedience and evil, then the angel’s influence becomes weak. The human protectee is like a a cell phone that is not receiving signals and becomes dead on a skip zone. Only a direct divine intervention wrought by the most pow-

erful force of intercessory, unceasing prayers by one or more prayer warriors can avert the cosmic disaster of a soul lost forever to darkness, death and nothingness. There is a study of angels called angelology. In it, it is claimed that there is a hierarchy of celestial beings grouped into three spheres. According to Wikipedia, there is a First Sphere, the highest ranking of all because they are closest to God. This includes Seraphim, Cherubim and Thrones. The Second Sphere includes Dominions, Virtues and Powers. In the Third Sphere can be found Principalities, Archangels and Angels. Our personal guardian angels fall in the last group. Each human being is believed to be assigned a personal guardian angel, Christian or not. The angels that keep watch over human beings belong to the lowest order of celestial beings and they are the ones concerned with the affairs of human beings. They are holy celestial beings who are agents of God intended as a help to mere mortals. They are powerful but we ourselves need

Health@Heart

Passive smoking: More deadly

PhiliP S. ChuA, Md, FACS, FPCS What is passive smoking? Secondhand smoke is the fume that one involuntarily inhales after someone who smokes exhales it (called mainstream smoke), or the fume that goes directly to the atmosphere from the burning tobacco (cigarette, pipe or cigar) called side stream smoke. When non-smokers breathe in these smokes or fumes from other people’s cigarettes, cigars and pipes, this is involuntarily inhalation, called passive smoking, a more deadly source of lung diseases and cancers. Tobacco smoke contains about 4000 (yes, four thousand) chemicals, 200 of them known poisons. Some of them are benzenes, formaldehyde and carbon monoxide, which are released into the air by smokers. Not only is the smoker inhaling these poisons, but so is everyone around them. Is secondhand smoke really more toxic? Yes, it has been scientifically proven that secondhand smokes are more dangerous to health than firsthand smoke. The smoker, who inhales the (mainstream) smoke “filters” it so some degree before

exhaling it, but the non-smoker around him/her inhales the “pure” and more dangerous side stream smoke. Besides the tar and nicotine in secondhand smoke, there are several cancer-causing substances in secondhand smoke, and in much higher concentration than in mainstream smoke. So, the person who smokes in public, around people, is giving himself/herself a lower dose of poisons, and giving his victims (family members, friends and strangers) around him/her a higher and a more deadly dose of poison. Technically, it is criminal to “spray” harmful chemicals to the atmosphere for others to breathe in, exposing them to cancer-causing agents. Obviously, the smokers do not intentionally do this to hurt his family or other people. The smoker is simply “hooked” on this addictive habit and is simply satisfying his/her urges when he/she smokes. Does passive smoking cause cancer? Yes, most definitely. Smokers developing lung and other cancers from smoking tobacco is a scientifically proven fact. In the United States, cancer victims of smoking and family members of smokers who died from cigaretterelated illness, have sued cigarette manufacturers, and have won millions in awards. While they ve-

hemently denied before, cigarette companies today have admitted in public that tobacco causes cancers and other lung illnesses. The courts have likewise ruled in a similar fashion in favor of victims of passive smoking (as in the airline stewardess’ case). In 1986, the Surgeon General of the United States reported that involuntary (passive) smoking can cause lung cancer in healthy non-smokers. In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has now classified secondhand smoke as a known carcinogen (cancer-causing agent). Does passive smoking hurt children and infants? More so, young children and infants are more vulnerable to tobacco smokes and fumes. Pregnant mothers who smoke, pass these dangerous substances to the fetus, causing higher incidents of smaller babies, some with diminished mental acuity, or even wit retardation, most with babies that are prone to frequent respirator infections and asthmatic attacks. Studies have shown that in their first two years of life, babies whose parent(s) smoke(s) at home have higher incidence of lung diseases such as bronchitis and pneumonia than babies of non-smokers. Smokes also aggravate asthma in children and may PAGE B6

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • mAy 24-30, 2018

Calendar of Events across

America

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS m Ay 26

FACCGLA’s bowling tournament Kalayaan Incorporated, Southern California’s foremost celebrant of Philippine Independence will host the celebration of the 120th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence on June 9, at the Universal Hilton Hotel, Universal City, California. For more information, contact Erlinda Granada-Sabah at (562) 682-9576; or Malou Perez at mperez0813@ aol.com.

“Salida: Simbolo at Kultura” Leyte Dance Theater USA Tour 2018 IDance Studio presents “Salida: Simbolo at Kultura,” Leyte Dance Theater’s USA Tour on Saturday, May 26, at 6 p.m. at Marsee Auditorium, El Camino College at 1600 Crenshaw Blvd., Torrance, California. Ticket prices are at $50, $35, $25 and $20. For sponsorship and tickets call: Nonie Belarmino at (310) 357-0222, Lourdes Alvarez at (310) 351-2946, Edsel Candido at (424) 702-6604 or Garth Garcia at (209) 765-1677.

JUNE 2

Holy Trinity Church hosts 2018 Fiesta in Los Angeles Come and celebrate Holy Trinity Church’s 2018 Fiesta on Saturday, June 2 from 1 to 9 p.m. There will be lots of fun games, music and food for the entire family. The program will feature Anatalia Villaranda, Buhay Cali, HTC Choir and more. The coronation of the prince and princess of Holy Trinity Church will also take place. Holy Trinity Church is located at 3722 Boyce Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90039.

Workshop on marketing to SoCal’s Fil-Am community in Long Beach Calling business owners, importers, and corporate product buyers! Come learn how to market to the fastest-growing community in Southern California on Saturday, June 2 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 4700 Airport Plaza Dr. Rickenbacker Hall, Long Beach, CA 90815. E.C Ferrer CHB, Inc. has scheduled a special presentation & orientation on international trade & marketing geared toward Fil-Am importers, exhibitors, small businesses and major corporation interested in marketing to the fastest growing Filipino-American market in Southern California. This event is a prelude to the highly anticipated Trade, Tourism & Consumer Roadshow taking place at the Southbay Pavilion in Carson, California on August 4 & 5, 2018 produced by the Asian Journal, with the cooperation of the Philippine Department of Trade & Tourism. We will transparently discuss with potential exhibitors what needs to be done and what to expect in exhibiting their respective products and how the add on feature of product sourcing will come into play. E.C Ferrer CHB, Inc. is the senior organizer of the upcoming Trade event at the SouthBay Pavillion on August 4-5 2018. (Must be an importer, corporate product buyer and business owner to attend on Saturday). To register for free, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/effectivelymarket-to-the-fastest-growing-community-in-southern-california-tickets-45453666139?. Call Ferdinand at (909) 851-1493 or email at ferdinand@ecferrer.com for any further information.

Filipino Voter Empowerment Project seminar in Los Angeles The June 5th Primary Election is right around the corner — do you have questions before you go to the polls? Join the Filipino Voter Empowerment Project (fvep.org) on Saturday, June 2nd, 10am at the Pilipino Workers Center (153 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026) for a seminar on your rights as a voter and how you can make a difference in the electoral process! In addition to voting rights, we’ll also have a brief presentation on financial literacy, courtesy of our friends at Banc of California..

Bayan Masaya in LA’s Historic Filipinotown All are invited to the 120th Philippine Independence Day celebration on June 2, 12-5 p.m. at SIPA, 3200 W. Temple St., Los Angeles. Dubbed as BAYAN MASAYA (short for Bayanihan sa Araw na Makasaysayan) the event will be a health, cultural and community resources fair in Historic Filipinotown (HiFi), the cultural heart of Filipinos throughout Los Angeles. Gift cards will be raffled off for those who will participate in the educational health workshops on HepatitisB, Mental Health, etc. Door prizes and give-aways will also be available to lucky winners. Collaborating organizations include Asian Pacific Health Care Venture, Search to Involve Pilipino Americans, Pilipino Workers Center, Filipino American Service Group, Manaois System Martial Arts, Tender Loving Care Family Caregiver Foundation, HiFi Tennis Association, and MOTHER Movement. Asian Journal serves as the media sponsor for Bayan Masaya 2018. For further information, interested individuals including vendors, exhibitors, sponsors, cultural performers and others may send an email to rosanne0517@gmail.com or mother-pearl@hotmail.com.

J U N E 2- 9

Money Smart for Small Business course in El Monte, CA Join this introductory two-day business course designed for new business owners, self-employed individuals, and aspiring entrepreneurs on Saturday, June 2 and 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will be held at Cathay Bank 9650 Flair Dr., El Monte, CA 91731. The fee is $20 (payable to API SBP). Course topics include startup planning, organizational types, risk management, credit reporting, business insurance, record keeping and more. Breakfast, lunch, and course materials will be provided by Cathay Bank. Limited seating so advance registration is required. To register, please contact Colleen Seto at smallbiz@apisbp.org or call (213) 473-1605. Please provide following info: full name, business name (if applicable), phone number, and email address.

JUNE 3

2018 Philippine Independence Day Parade in NY On Sunday, June 3, the Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. will host the annual Philippine Independence Parade with the theme, “Honoring Our Heroes, Inspiring Solidarity.” The day will begin at 7:45 a.m. with a Flag Ceremony / Thanksgiving Mass at the Philippine Center (556 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10036). From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., there will be a street fair along Madison Avenue between 25th and 26th Streets and 26th Street, from Madison Avenue to Park Avenue. Tents are pitched on both sides of the Avenue and Street divided into booths selling food and merchandise. Independence Day Parade Opening Ceremony/Ribbon Cutting will take place on Madison Avenue at 38th Street at 11:45 a.m. Before the 2018 Independence Day Parade gets on its way, parade Grand Marshal Dr. Restituto N. Estacio and Honorary Grand Marshal Ambassador Mario Lopez de Leon, Jr. will lead the parade spearhead of VIPs, guests, and marchers, marching bands, floats, open cars, others. From 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Cultural Festival Open-air Stage will be at the corner of Madison Avenue and 26th Street where celebrities, performers and talents are showcased on a continuous all afternoon show. For more information, please visit http://www.philippineindependenceday.com.

JUNE 9

City of Carson’s 120th Philippine Independence Day Celebration The City of Carson’s Annual Philippine Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 9 is the biggest event in the City of Carson with thousands of people from all over Southern California in attendance. It begins with a flag raising ceremony, followed by an ecumenical service, and a holy mass. The parade/cultural street dance participated in by different Filipino-American, City-affiliated, and school-based organizations officially open the program. This year’s featured indigenous group is the “Igorot”. Igorot dancers will thus be leading the parade. Non-stop entertainment follows with headliners from ABS-CBN-The Filipino Channel. Interactive booths, exhibits, food and non-food vendors, and a children’s area make the event ideal for families and people of all ages. For parade participation/event information/ volunteer sign up, please call (310) 952-1743; booths (310) 569-7500; sponsorship (310) 819-5108. It will be held from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Veterans Park (22400 Moneta Avenue - Carson, CA).

Kalayaan Incorporated presents Philippine Independence gala in Los Angeles Kalayaan Incorporated, Southern California’s foremost celebrant of Philippine Independence will host the celebration of the 120th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence on June 9, at the Universal Hilton Hotel, Universal City, California. For more information, contact Erlinda Granada-Sabah at (562) 682-9576; or Malou Perez at mperez0813@aol.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

Features

B may 24-30, 2018 • LaS VEGaS aSIaN JOURNaL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678

Stephen Bishop: PH is my second home Filipino designs shine at Miss Earth Philippines 2018 by Leah

C. saLterio Philstar.com

in the States.” As a singer who also writes MORE than four decades after most of his songs, Stephen starts he ignited the international music from the titles, then creates the scene with memorable, stirring melody and writes the lyrics. Like ballads, Oscar and Grammy nomi- the heart-wrenching Separate nated singer-songwriter Stephen Lives, which was written after his Bishop is still actively touring. break-up with his girlfriend. “You have no right, to ask This year, he will be seen not just in the US, but in the international me how I feel,” said a line from scene as well, the Philippines the chorus. That was exactly what he wanted to tell his partincluded. Local music fans who repeat- ner after their break-up. The edly saw Stephen onstage, still song later became the theme of have not grown tired of watching the film, White Nights, starring him perform live. This month, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Gregory Stephen will again entertain and Hines and Helen Mirren. Separate delight Filipino audiences with Lives also earned the Best Origihis well-loved and popular songs, nal Song nomination from the which have become staple of ra- Academy Awards. Stephen’s monstrous hit, It dio music stations for years. “This is my second home,” Ste- M i g h t B e Yo u , t h e t h e m e phen said of the Philippines. “It’s from Tootsie, starring Dustin easy to keep coming back here Hoffman and Jessica Lange, because the people are always so earned another Academy Award warm, sweet and nice. I love the nomination for Best Original Filipino people. They really love Song. He recorded the song, my songs and it’s a fantastic thing. but music was by Dave Grusin, I have actually more hits here than with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn

by C.

Stephen Bishop

Philstar.com photo

Bergman. Interestingly, even before Stephen started to sing, he was playing the clarinet. He adores The Beatles — “I’m a Beatle-holic,” he proudly says — and the Rolling Stones. “I started playing the clarinet at 10, when I got into an orchestra in my school. Then, I was playing I Can’t Get No Satisfaction by the (Rolling) Stones on the clarinet, but it didn’t sound so good. I couldn’t impress the girls in my school.”

‘Fresh Off The Boat’, ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ and beyond... PAGE B4 reality and to cater to a growingly ethnically assorted population, as expressed by sociologist Nancy Wang Yuen in her book “Reel Inequality: Hollywood Actors and Racism.” “‘Diversity’ and ‘brilliance’ are not mutually exclusive. Hollywood can reconceptualize racial diversity and inclusion not as a compromise, but as a goal,” she writes “Hollywood simply cannot

afford to ignore an increasingly diverse domestic audience base and growing international market. As an industry, Hollywood also risks stagnation because racially and gender diverse groups are more likely to innovate and create than groups with less diverse members.” Diversity for diversity’s sake isn’t the issue. The call for fair representation isn’t to haphazardly include more Asian bodies

in a film to fulfill a quota that film’s past could not, but it is to, rather, challenge the century-long homogeneity in Hollywood that fails to capture the reality of a growingly assorted American population. Culture is, in part, shaped by film and television which have a profound reach, and to accurately represent the AAPI community in thoughtful, constructive ways means accurately representing the world as we know it.

Luis and Rosemarie Mendez: My ultimate hashtag... PAGE B4 works with them in their family business, and Alejandra (28), who is pursuing Nursing. Their biological daughter (and the youngest) is Marylou will be 21 years old in June. Marylou is studying to be a registered Nurse Practioner. Through the years and in spite of all the challenges they face, there is nothing that they cannot overcome together. For Rosemarie, it’s kindness, respect and romance that keep them strong and united. “Kindness is very important. Saying thank you and please. Respect, being caring, compromise is a wonderful thing. Learning to be able to forgive each other. Humor is important. You need to be able to laugh at

each other’s joke. Understanding and patience are some that I can think of. Always keep the romance alive. We still go out on dates, usually on Saturdays. We go on vacations once or twice a year and bond as a family. We make sure that we are involve in our children’s lives. “My prayers are that God will continue to bless our family. I pray for my husband and for his great health and a long life so we can enjoy each other and our family through our old age.” I am certain that God will continue to bless them. I strongly believe that couples like them who love and respect one another and inspire people like me, are the ones who are most blessed.

To my favorite and hashtag #couplegoals: Keep the love alive and the passion burning. Happy 25th Anniversary. I wish you more years of blessed togetherness. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration . To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com

Mendez Legaspi Philstar.com

Miss Earth 2017 Karen Ibasco from the Philippines was at her most beautiful when she turned over her crown. She was glowing in a white bustier ballgown by Val Taguba. For the finals night, fashion designers were asked to create haute-couture gowns following the theme “Sea and Sky.” Paolo Blanco created the gown for the statuesque Silvia Celeste Cortesi, Miss Earth Philippines 2018 winner. “It’s an illusion sheer top encrusted with silver blue crystals Newly crowned Earth Philippines 2018 Silvia Celeste Cortesi in a Paolo Blanco creation (center) with beaded fringe ombré Tiffany and Miss Miss Earth 2017 Karen Ibasco (right) wearing a Val Taguba ball gown. blue to silver serpentina skirt,” Philstar.com photo by Erwin Cagades Blanco said on his work. Jearson Demavivas designed creation for Miss Philippines Fire the “Best in Long Gown” worn for the pretty half-Palestinian Jean de Jesus: “Everyone’s saying by Miss Philippines Water BerMiss Philippines Air Zahra Bianca you looked so dashing, regal and jayneth Goc-Ong Chee during classy in the galaxy blue gown preliminaries: “Keeping the Saldua. “With the need to preserve I made. I designed this gown Earth’s color, the flowy, high-slit, conservatism without compromis- not just only for details, what’s nude-base gown is made of beading modern style, this royal blue trendy, or trying to look different ed, checkered cloth appliqued in gown was created to achieve a but I focused to make (you stand lace, giving the impression of an stunning juxtaposition of daring out so you could be the best ver- empowered Filipina who calls for the love of humanity. It has and traditionalist values since the sion of yourself.)” Gerry Fernandez made a light Swarovski crystals and ostrich wearer is a practicing Muslim,” he ash-blue gown of French lace for feathers.” explained. For Chee’s final gown, Mackey “The details include a unique Miss Philippines Eco-Tourism overlay of crystal tulle cloth that Halimatu Tanador Yushawu: “It’s created a haltered, royal-blue diagonally falls off the skirt from a body-hugging silhouette with sequined gown with flowy, deone side and a crystal-detailed flowy skirt at the back. Crystals tachable tulle train. “It’s for the environment warbase of the entire gown - a com- and pearls are all over the gown, bination that emblems not only highlighted with metallic bam- rior who will protect the world’s elegance but impressive contem- boo beads fringes for a dramatic oceans by advocating for cleanliness on the shorelines,” Mackey impact.” porary style.” Bea Bianca Mackey designed enthused. Benj Leguiab IV said of his

PAGE B3

Bea Alonzo starts again

a film that asks the question whether we should love someone despite their faults and their inconsistencies. Lia’s relationship with Paulo Avelino’s Philip and past with Derek Ramsay’s Wado certainly drove the plot, but a plot point that’s as crucial — one that informs Lia’s romantic relationships but also her relationship with herself — is her lingering feelings of abandonment at the hands of her father. Depending on how you like your Filipino films, there’s an element of camp throughout “Kasal” that might distract from the plot. When the campiness is just right, you’re reminded of the classic Danny Zialcita movies from the ’80s. When it careens a little too far, it might remind you of the worst teleserye cliches. Throughout it all though, Bea Alonzo holds the dramatic center of Kasal. And whatever else may be happening onscreen, she makes the story believable — it’s right there on her face. After all, it’s somehow her story too. “Ang lapit sakin ni Lia,” she admits. “Naramdaman ko siya. Ito ‘yung imperfect me…. Nandun kasi ako sa point na kahit i-judge ako ng mga tao for my imperfections, it’s okay.” “Honestly, all these years I’ve been afraid that I’m not the likeable type. Seriously. ’Yun talaga siguro dati why I was so uncomfortable doing ‘ASAP’ or any live programs kasi dapat super likeable, center of attention… Imagine ’yung mga kasabay ko and the personalities? Anne Curtis who’s such a darling — she’s a sweetheart, she’s so likeable — Angelica [Panganiban] who’s very funny, Angel [Locsin] who makikita mo talaga ’yung kindness. I’m the type who [keeps a lot inside]. I was always afraid that they might not like me. Pero nandun ako sa point na even if they don’t, that’s fine.”

Up next for Bea is Eerie, a horror indie primed for film festivals starring Charo Santos, directed by “Birdshot” wunderkind Mikhail Red, as well as an untitled romance co-starring Aga Muhlach, directed by Paul Soriano, that will call on Bea to play something like “Jennifer Lawrence in real life.” Both are departures for the actress and after 15 years of almost nothing but carefully calibrated, surefire hits, experimentation has put fire in her belly. “I feel like I’m bolder now when it comes to choosing my projects,” she says. “I’m not in that phase na hinahanap ko pa kung what kind of an actress I am, I feel like I already know that. ’Yung objective ko now is to create a body of work that’s a mixture of everything… I’m more open to reading new scripts, na siguro independent. Nandun ako and I promised myself that — na when I turn 30, mas magiging bold ako.” That seems to be the anchor of this conversation with Bea, turning 30. It’s supposed to be the age of coming into your own, when you liberate yourself from youthful anxieties and allow yourself to come into focus. It’s certainly an interesting time for a public figure. If your 20s were spent being the hot young thing, what do you have to offer in your 30s, when you’re past the excitement of newness but not yet so tenured to inspire a monument? Toward the end of our interview, I note that history has proven the third decade an artistically fruitful time in the career of the kind of actress Bea Alonzo’s becoming. Sharon Cuneta was 30 when she did the careerdefining Madrasta. Vilma Santos came back with Relasyon right before she hit 30. She takes comfort in those examples but admits: “Siyempre merong days na, what am I doing with my life? Meron

akong ganong days — five years ago, hindi ito ’yung ginusto ko sa buhay ko,” she says, laughing. “Alam mo ’yun? Parang, ‘Nasa right path ba ako?’” There’s a scene in Kasal where Bea’s character Lia finds out that her fiancé has been lying to her all along, and is hit by the realization that all the men she’s ever loved in her life — from her father to her ex-boyfriend — have all betrayed her trust. She says shooting that scene was one of the most challenging things she’s done in a while. And for the confrontation, Direk Ruel asked for the antithesis of Bea’s usual earthy, everywoman characters. He asked for big “TV Patrol acting.” “For that specific scene, he gave me a pencil, told me to edit [the script], kahit daw di na niya i-check. Di kami nag rehearse. ’Yung lines, gusto ni Direk Ruel, hindi ko na iniisip, ’yung lumalabas lang sa’kin…. Madaming mura that they had to edit out. Ganon pala ’yun pag masyado kang galit, bigla nalang siyang lalabas, parang word vomit.” Out of her comfort zone, she was understandably nervous. “Sino ka?” she spits at Paulo’s Philip, shaking with anger. “Sobrang galit na galit ako [in that scene], ’yung right hand ko nag numb parang may pins and needles,” she says. “Sabi ko sa sarili ko, wag ka na mag-prepare, talon ka nalang.” At some point in our interview, we hug. Bea Alonzo has always been emotionally transparent — that’s been her boon as an actress and her bane as a celebrity. But talking to her, I’m reminded of a line a friend once told me about the poet Billy Collins: “Simplicity is the greatest risk because you’re understood.” “I don’t know the answers,” Bea tells me. “And it excites me.”

Passive smoking: More deadly

PAGE B5 even precipitate attacks. Parents, especially pregnant mothers, and all of us for that matter, should not smoke, but if we have too, we should do it outside our home, and away from people. Studies have shown that, even among children without asthma, acute respiratory illnesses occur two times more often to young children whose parents smoke around them as compared to those with on-smoking parents. Passive smoking by children (secondhand smoke exposure) is associated with 150,000 to 300,000 cases of bronchitis and pneumonia each year in infants and young children less than 18 months old. We should not be doing this to our children. How about secondhand smoke at the workplace? The U.S. Surgeon General’s Report of 1996 established that the simple separation of smokers and non-smokers within the same air space may reduce but NOT eliminate the risk of exposure to environmental tobacco smoke. In view of this, an increasing number of state and local laws now restrict smoking at the workplace. The idea behind this law is that the preferences and rights of both the nonsmokers and the smokers should be considered whenever possible. However, when these choices conflict, the health and the preferences of nonsmokers

should prevail and come first. More and more private companies, on their own, are also adopting policies that restrict smoking and protect nonsmokers. What are the other adverse effects of smoking? Besides the health hazards among smokers, and to those people around him who are forced to inhale secondhand smoke, tobacco smoking leads to environmental pollution. Burning tobacco causes bad odors, which cling to people’s clothes, hair, skin and even curtains, etc. In an air-conditioned room, the cooling unit demands can jump as much as 600 percent in order to control the bad odor of tobacco, which also lingers on. The bad odor is due to the burned chemical that penetrates our skin and the fabric of our clothes. The habit, which used to be so glamorous and very “in” is now “out” and considered “dirty.” It is also expensive and very offensive to nonsmokers. The prediction is that some day, smoking, in view of all these health hazards, will be tabooed, and smokers will be outcast. What can be done about secondhand smoke? Both the smokers and nonsmokers have their rights. Smokers have the right to smoke, even if smoking is bad for their health. People have the right to commit suicide. In the same token, nonsmokers have their rights also.

They have the right to protect themselves and their children from unwanted cancer-causing smokes. Someone’s enjoyment should not be tolerated to be somebody else’s endangerment. Steps that could be taken: 1. Let family, friends and co-workers know that you mind if they smoke around you; 2. Put “No Smoking” signs in your home, car or office to make people aware; 3. Support legislation to restrict smoking in public places, like workplace or restaurant, movies, busses and other public places; 4. Propose non-smoking resolutions in your social/civic organization meetings; 5. Encourage management, unions and companies where you work to establish policies to protect nonsmokers on the job; and, help promote the concept of smoke-free families in your community. After all, we have the right to say no to poisons and cancers. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com

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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL â€¢ mAy 24-30, 2018

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Located in Montemaria, home to the ninth largest monument in the Worldâ€”the shrine to Mother Mary,Tower of Peace.

A world-class township development located in Montemaria, Batangas City, the Philippines.

â€œFor your retirement, family vacation, pilgrimage, and investment...for generations.â€?

THE TOTAL LAND AREA OF THE MONTEMARIA DEVELOPMENT IS APPROXIMATELY 130 HECTARES WHICH INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING TOWNSHIP* PROJECTS: 01 Condominiums, hotels, and resorts 02 Commercial developments such as a shopping center which includes restaurants and cafes 03 Golf Course and Water Park 04 Spa and Wellness Centers 05 Marina and Fishermanâ€™s Wharf 06 Housing, residential subdivision, and retirement village 6XEMHFW WR Ć“QDO GHYHORSPHQW SODQ TOTAL LAND AREA 2.1 Hectares

INVESTMENT HIGHLIGHTS

01 Development site is adjacent to the Statue of Virgin Mary. 02 5HVRUW VHWWLQJ ZLWK PDJQLĆ“FHQW YLHZ RI WKH ED\ 03 High-quality asset with world-class exterior and interior design. 04 Designed by award winning and internationally renowned Architecture and Design Firm, ARCH HAUS ASIA. 05 Montemaria is located on top of the Batangas Bay Peninsula facing the Verde Island Passage, reputed to be the U.N. recognized â€œCenter of the Center of Marine Bio-Diversity of the World.â€?

DATE OF COMPLETION Second Quarter of 2020 TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS PHASE 1 866 Units BUILDING 1 164 units

BUILDING 2 Clubhouse

Lombard By The Bay is a joint venture development project between 3UHPLHU $VLD 3DFLĆ“F 5HDO (VWDWH DQG Development Corp.and Omnicor ,QGXVWULDO (VWDWH 5HDOW\ &HQWHU ,QF

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT SUSAN K. GROSS-NIEDERMEYER AT (480) 227-7782 SUSAN@SUSANGROSSREALTOR.COM I SUSAN.GROSS@PREMIERASIAPACIFIC.COM I LOMBARDBYTHEBAY.COM