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Volume 17 - No. 22 • 3 Sections – 22 Pages
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DATELINE Fil-Am candidates in Northern California feature in June 5 Primary FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
AS the California Primary Election on June 5, 2018 nears, there are a few Filipino-Americans candidates featured in the ballots in Northern California. The most recognizable is current California State Assemblymember Rob Bonta of District 18 (www.a18,asmdc.org), who is running for reelection. Among the cities in District 18 are Alameda, Oakland and San Leandro. Bonta, the first Filipino-American to ever get elected to the State Assembly in 2012, currently is the chair of the Assembly’s Asian Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus, and serves on the Appropriations, Communications and
JUNE 1-7, 2018
Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY
DFA chief: We’re not blaming Aquino for losing control of areas in West PH Sea on the recent developments in the WPS, Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano called out Cayetano for repeatFOREIGN Affairs Secretary Alan edly “blaming� former President Peter Cayetano on Wednesday, Benigno Aquino III, citing the May 30, insisted that they are not country lost control over the Bajo blaming the Aquino administra- de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) tion for losing control over some in the WPS. of the Philippine-claimed areas in Cayetano also cited Aquino’s the West Philippine Sea (WPS). previous statement comparing At a Congressional briefing by Beijing’s actions in the WPS to the National Task Force for the Nazi Germany’s demands for West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) Czech territory in the 1930s, by PATRICIA LOURDES Philstar.com
VIRAY
which he said worsen the rift in the diplomatic relationship between the Philippines and China. “Kasi parang binabalik natin lagi kay President Aquino. I also disagree with Aquino calling Chinese Nazis but ang nangyayari sa atin palagi kino-compare natin,� Alejano said. “What I’m asking is now, not the past admin, kasi kayo ang
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PH Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano
Philstar.com photo
Philippines to build 5 lighthouses US to continue operations in Spratly Islands in disputed sea despite u PAGE A3
China’s dissent – Pentagon
WASHINGTON will continue to conduct freedom of navigation operations (FONOPs) and confront China’s increasing militarization in the South China Sea, U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said. Mattis noted that the U.S. has always been transparent on its operations in the contested waters and that there’s only “one country� that has expressed opposition against the FONOPs. “On the FONOPs, they’re freedom of navigation operations. And you’ll notice there’s only one country that seems to take active steps to rebuff them or state their resentment of them,� Mattis told reporters aboard a U.S. military plane. The Pentagon chief further noted that
MANILA — The government is building five lighthouses in the South China Sea features occupied by the Philippines to ensure the safety of transiting ships and to improve the living conditions of Filipinos in the area, an official said on Wednesday, May 30. National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said lighthouses are being constructed in Pag-asa, Parola, Likas, Patag and Kota, islets that are part of the Spratly Islands. “We are upgrading facilities for the comfort of our people,� Esperon said during the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum in Manila. “Lighthouses are now being constructed features held by the Philippines to ensure safety of navigation, along our responsibility under the UNCLOS (United
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DESTROYED VEHICLES. President Rodrigo Duterte discusses matters with Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Isidro LapeĂąa during the destruction of over 120 smuggled luxury motor vehicles and motorcycles at the BOC Port Area in Manila on Wednesday, May 30. Also in the photo are Sec. Bong Go of the OfďŹ ce of the Special Assistant to the President, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III and Department of Interior and Local Government OfďŹ ce-in-Charge Eduardo AĂąo. MalacaĂąang photo by Karl Norman Alonzo
PNP chief: Human rights DOT chief: Tulfo’s ‘Bitag’ important in drug war hasn’t given P60-M back by RITCHEL
MENDIOLA AJPress
Janet Lim-Napoles
Philstar.com photo
Palace backs dropping of Napoles as witness by CATHERINE
S. VALENTE ManilaTimes.net
“We support the DoJ secretary’s decision and agree that [Napoles] is not [the] least guilty MALACAĂ‘ANG supported the [and] whose testimony is not indecision made by the Depart- dispensable and can be testified ment of Justice (DoJ) on Friday, upon by other witnesses,â€? Roque May 25, to terminate business- said. woman Janet Lim-Napoles’ proNapoles has been “provisionvisional admission to its Witness ally coveredâ€? by the program Protection Program (WPP). since February 27, when VitaliaIn a text message on the same no Aguirre 2nd still headed the day, Palace spokesman Harry department. Roque Jr. agreed with Justice Such coverage was set to lapse Secretary Menardo Guevarra on May 26. that Napoles cannot claim to be Guevarra on Friday disclosed the least guilty in a multibillion- that a formal letter has been sent peso scam that used lawmakers’ to Napoles, through her counsel, pork barrel funds. u PAGE A2
ACCORDING to Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Director General Oscar Albayalde, human rights are paramount in the police’s campaign against drugs. He also insisted that the police force is not lacking in training on human rights awareness in their operations. “The rules of engagement are paramount in every police operation, and respect for human rights is one of them,� he said. This is why police operatives are instructed to conduct outright investigations into cases that are perceived as unjustly executed or were done without due process, Albayalde added.
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by RITCHEL
MENDIOLA AJPress
current Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said. THE P60 million paid by the “It has not been returned,� Department of Tourism (DOT) for Puyat said regarding the promise advertisements on Ben Tulfo’s of Ben Tulfo’s company, Bitag — brother of resigned Tour- Media Unlimited Inc., to return ism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo the money. — show on government channel When asked if she had followed PTV-4 has yet to be returned, u PAGE A4
PNP Chief Director General Oscar Albayalde Inquirer.net photo
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JUNE 1-7, 2018 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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From the Front Page
PNP chief: Human rights important... PAGE A1 t The police chief also asserted that the safety of police operatives is equally important — specifically, situations that are too dangerous during police operations. A featured guest in the premier episode of the talk show “The Chiefs” that airs at 8:30 p.m. on One News Cignal TV 8 and 250 (HD), Albayalde talked about police safety and protection. “What happens on the ground if there is danger on the part of the operatives is something that we cannot control,” he told “The Chiefs” hosts Amy Pamintuan, Ed Lingao and Roby Alampay. Albayalde also talked about how PNP does not condone any misconduct. “There have been 608 cases of violations of human rights involving policemen and this is a good indication that we are not tolerating any wrongdoing,” he said. Lawmen who committed infractions are being filed with administrative and criminal charges, and the PNP is intensifying measures
to prevent police officers from committing abuses when implementing the anti-drug campaign. “Before we used the shotgun approach, anti-illegal drug operations now are limited to identified drug personalities,” he said. The PNP would continue with what has been started in the war on drugs, Albayalde said, because “it has been a good one, especially in the improved tokhang and buybust procedures.” Presidential Communications Operations Office chief Secretary Martin Andanar, meanwhile, presented the updated and consolidated figures in the campaign against drugs on Tuesday, May 29. A total of 4,279 drug personalities were reportedly killed in the police’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs, and at least P20 billion worth of illegal drugs was seized from July 1, 2016 to May 15, 2018. 192 clandestine shabu laboratories were also dismantled. #RealNumberPH is the con-
solidated figure in the accomplishment against illegal drugs, according to Andanar. “These are real numbers that we need to know, all else are either false, misinformation or fake,” Andanar said. Through #RealNumbersPH, the PNP is taking intervention to rehabilitate drug surrenderees, as stated by National Capital Regional Police Office chief Director Camilo Cascolan. About 1.2 million drug personalities have surrendered as of last count. PNP will continue the intensified campaign against illegal drugs, Deputy Director General Ramon Apolinario, deputy chief for administration confirmed. “We know there are more challenges to come, but we assure you that the PNP will never give up until peace and order is achieved. As the president said, we won’t stop until the last drug trafficker, drug pusher, drug lord and user surrender or are put behind bars,” Apolinario said. n
APPOINTMENT CONFIRMED. Commission on Appointments (CA) Chairman and Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III congratulates Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief-of-Staff General Carlito Galvez, Jr. after his ad-interim appointment was confirmed on Wednesday, May 30. Galvez served as commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) based in Zamboaga City, the military command mainly responsible for areas addressing threats from local armed groups in the Zamboanga Peninsula, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. Senate photo by Cesar Tomambo
DFA chief: We’re not blaming... PAGE A1 t nakaupo eh,” he added. Cayetano gave assurances they are not blaming anyone and that they are “just stating the facts.” “We’re not blaming the past admin. Some critics are just making it appear na iba ang situation ngayon. We’re just saying that we inherited it from the past admin,” Cayetano said. “For example the Scarborough, we controlled Scarborough until 2011 nung nagkaroon ng misfire ‘yung Aquino admin,” he added. “We are just simply stating the fact na nawala ito during his (Aquino’s) time,” he continued. Earlier in the briefing, Cayetano said when President Rodrigo Duterte assumed office in 2016, they were “trying to improve a bad situation inherited from the
past administration.” “Did we mess up? No, we inherited a bad situation and we’re trying to make good of a bad situation here,” Cayetano said. “When Duterte came in like in a company you have to stop the bleeding first. We talked to China, we drew lines. They asked us not to build in uninhabited land; not to extract resources unilaterally. We told them do not build in Scarborough, don’t touch Ayungin, don’t stop resupply of troops, do not extract oil unilaterally,” he added. Cayetano also said they have filed “maybe 50 to 100” diplomatic protests against China since 2016 but they opted not to be “loud about it.” “We’ve been filing diplomatic protests. But the critics want us to announce it loudly and to con-
front China each and every time through the media. That is not conducive to the ongoing talks,” he said. “It’s critics who want na everyday nasa news at Facebook. We’re taking diplomatic actions… Kung gusto natin contest siraang plaka, lugi kami because we have a job to do,” he added. For Cayetano, a diplomatic protest has “no specific form,” as long as “the content” is there. “When the president tells a president that is mine… that’s a protest, when we file a note verbale, if we list down concerns, that’s a protest. When I go up to you and say, ‘Cong. pasensya ka na I disagree with you,’ that’s a protest… If I get the microphone and say China hindi tama ginagawa nyo that’s also a form of protest,” the official explained. n
Philippines to build 5 lighthouses...
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Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) to provide navigational safety for all international vessels transiting the West Philippine Sea,” he added. Esperon said the construction of lighthouses, which costs about P10 million, is part of the government’s effort to upgrade Philippine-claimed features in the West Philippine Sea. The government is also upgrading port and airstrip facilities in Pagasa island, the largest of the nine features controlled by the Philippines in the Spratly Islands. “This is necessary for trade, the preservation of the livelihood
of the fisherfolk, and the timely delivery of basic necessities of the community in the municipality of Pag-asa,” the national security adviser said. “It is but natural (to carry out upgrades) because we have a fishing community there,” he added. Esperon said the upgrade and repair of the runway on Pag-asa, which China calls Thitu island, would allow the government to send supplies to troops stationed in the area. China claims historic rights over about 90 percent of the South China Sea including Spratly Islands while the Philippines,
Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have overlapping claims. While China has been aggressively building new structures, including military facilities, in disputed areas, planned improvements in Philippine-held features were delayed to avoid tensions. Earlier this month, think tank Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative reported that the Philippines has started the repairs on Pag-asa island, which is inhabited by about 100 Filipinos. Upgrades were also observed on Lawak Island, Panata Island and Rizal Reef. (Alexis Romero/Philstar. com)
Palace backs dropping... PAGE A1 t stating that her provisional coverage under the WPP is terminated effective May 25. Napoles had requested to be admitted to the program, citing alleged threats to her personal security and specifically requested protection by way of transfer from her place of detention at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City. Guevarra explained that Napoles’ application for full WPP coverage has been rendered moot and academic after all three divisions of the Sandiganbayan rejected her motions for transfer to a DoJ safehouse from
Camp Bagong Diwa, where she is held on plunder charges. The charges stemmed from the P10-billion scam, which involved lawmakers’ discretionary funds being funneled to nonexistent projects by bogus nongovernment organizations that Napoles owned. “As there has been no further claim of threat to her personal security inside Camp Bagong Diwa, the Secretary of Justice has found no reason to extend Mrs. Napoles’ provisional coverage under the [WPP],” he said in a statement. Napoles’ coverage was good only for 90 days, according to
Guevarra. Under Republic Act (RA) 6981 or the Witness Protection Act, before a person is admitted into the WPP, he or she shall execute a sworn statement describing in detail the manner in which the offense was committed and his or her participation. Among the requirements of the law for a WPP applicant to qualify as state witness is that he or she must be the least guilty of the alleged crime committed. Aguirre had granted Napoles’ provisional admission to the WPP after she executed an affidavit that provided more details
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From the Front Page
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Fil-Am candidates in Northern... PAGE A1 t Conveyance, Governmental Organization, Revenue & Taxation, and Health Committees. He is also currently the Assistant Majority Leader. According to votersedge.com, some of Bonta’s top priorities include ensuring children and parents have access to high quality, affordable early childhood education; increasing affordable access to healthcare to ensure universal health coverage; and maintaining a strong economy and job growth. Among the most recent bills authored or co-authored and introduced by Assemblymember Bonta include AB 3 (raising the age to purchase long guns such as rifles and shotguns from 18 to 21), AB 2220 (expand scholarship and academic protections to thousands of college athletes across California), AB 3001 (offering a multi-pronged strategy to knock down regulatory barriers and align the state’s building and energy codes with California’s ambitious greenhouse gas reduction goals), AB 1871 (require charter schools to provide each needy student with one nutritionally adequate meal each school day), AB 1927 (allows people fearing suicide to voluntarily and confidentially submit their names to California’s background check system to prevent themselves from purchasing a gun), and AB 1793 (creates a simpler and expedited pathway for Californians to turn the page and make a fresh start by having certain criminal convictions for cannabis-related offenses removed or reduced from their records). In the Peninsula area, Republican Cristina Osmeña (www. osmenaforcongress.com) is challenging for the U.S. House of Representatives District 14 post currently occupied by Congresswoman Jackie Speier, who is running for reelection. Cities in District 14 include Burlingame, Daly City, Colma, Foster City, Half Moon Bay, Pacifica, Redwood City, San Bruno, San Carlos, San Mateo and South San Francisco. A solar industry executive, Osmeña, whose family opposed and fled the Philippines under the Marcos dictatorship, is a UCBerkeley graduate where she majored in English. Prior to her current position, Osmeña was Vice President of Corporate Development of SunPreme. Before that, she was involved with foundation activities at SunEdision. Among the issues cited by Osmeña in her campaign website include the need to increase housing density and multi-family housing units in the Bay Area, the need to defend the Second Amendment (preserving the people’s right to bear arms), appropriate funding for K-12 public education and schools in San Mateo County, protecting women’s rights (including equal pay for women), encouraging the viability of careers for women in science and engineering, and taking the federal government to task when it comes to fiscal responsibility. Osmeña writes a weekly column for a local newspaper, and
is a board member of the Philippine American Press Club-USA, inc. She is also a published author. Also in the San Mateo County area, Christina Laskowski (www. laskowskiforassembly.com) is one of three candidates challenging for the State Assembly District 22 seat currently held by Kevin Mullin, who is seeking reelection. Laskowski currently works as a Change Management consultant. Prior to this, she was involved for 16 years in boutique investment banking. Laskowski, who is Republican, grew up for most of her life in the Bay Area where she attended Mercy High School in Burlingame, and the University of San Francisco. According to her campaign website, Laskowski embraced the opportunity to more formally serve the public due to her observation that there is growing inequity in the Bay Area that continues to widen at the expense of underrepresented taxpayers. Among Laskowski’s current community involvements are board member for nonprofit FYLPRO, member of advisory board of SFAsia (San Francisco Office of Economic Development), volunteer project manager of The Hinabi Project (Philippine American Writers & Artists), mentor to UC Berkeley’s FASTER program and Google Launchpad, and as an advisor to the Bataan Legacy Historical Society. According to Wikipedia, due to the passage of Proposition 14 (known as the Top Two Primaries Act) in the June 2010 state elections, California’s primary elections for a particular office were consolidated into an election with one ballot that would be identical to all voters, regardless of their party preferences. The two candidates with the most votes in the primary election would then be the only candidates who would run in the general election, regardless of their party affiliation. While write-in candidates are allowed Only statewide offices, as well as those for U.S. Senators and Members of Congress, are affected by Proposition 14. Voters participating in the June 5 primary elections will have the opportunity to decide who will battle in the November 2018 general elections for top positions in the state government, including Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, Controller, Treasurer, Attorney General and Insurance Commissioner, as well as for members of the California State Legislature, U.S. Senate and U.S. Congress. There are also five state-wide propositions vying for a Yes or No vote from voters: Prop 68 (authorizes bonds funding parks, natural resources protection, climate adaptation, water quality supply and flood protection), Prop 69 (requires that certain new transportation revenues be used for transportation purposes), Prop 70 (requires legislative supermajority vote approving use of capand-trade reserve fund), Prop 71 (sets effective date for ballot measures), and Prop 72 (permits
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 1-7, 2018
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legislature to exclude newly constructed rain-capture systems from property tax reassessment requirement). Individual counties and cities (regional) have their own measures up for a Yes or No vote also in the ballots in the June 5 primary elections. Interestingly, for Bay Area residents there is a special election in San Francisco, also taking place on June 5, for the mayoral post vacated by the sudden passing of former Mayor Ed Lee. Mark Farrell is serving as interim mayor until the special elections are held and a new winner is proclaimed to take over the rest of Lee’s term. There are eight candidates seeking to become Mayor of San Francisco, namely former Supervisor Angela Alioto, Michelle Bravo, Supervisor London breed, Richie Greenberg, Supervisor Jane Kim, former State Senator Mark Leno, Amy Farah Weiss BINONDO INFERNO. Firemen try to control the fire that started at the Land Management Bureau building in Binondo, Manila. The blaze that and Ellen Lee Zhou. (Joseph Per- lasted 12 hours and reached the highest alarm also destroyed the Juan Luna building that houses the administrative offices of the National Archives of the Philippines, the Bank of the Philippine Islands building and the Moraga Mansion. ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma alta/AJPress)
US to continue operations in disputed sea... PAGE A1 t Washington is not hiding its operations in the South China Sea as it has always been announced through public affairs statements. Mattis reiterated that Chinese President Xi Jinping has reneged on his promise not to militarize the Spratly Islands. “We have seen—the last month, they have done exactly that, moving weaponry in that was never there before,” Mattis said. Beijing has deployed new missile systems and jamming
equipment on its “big three” islands in the Spratlys. The Chinese Air Force also recently landed a nuclear-capable bomber aircraft on its outpost in the Paracel Islands. Washington will continue to confront nations behaving out of step with international law, Mattis said, referring to Beijing. “That’s the way we do business in the world. But we are also going to confront what we believe is out of step with international law, out of step with international tribunals that
have spoken on the issue, and part of this is we maintain a very transparent military activity out in the Pacific,” the Pentagon chief said. Mattis stressed that U.S. partners and allies are “very open” with Washington’s FONOPs in the region. “So, when they do things that are opaque to the rest of us, then we cannot cooperate in areas that we would otherwise cooperate in,” he said. Last week, the Pentagon withdrew its invitation for China to
participate in the 2018 Rim of the Pacific Exercises, the world’s largest multinational naval exercise. The Pentagon said that the decision to disinvite China was an “initial response” to the latter’s militarization of the South China Sea. “We have strong evidence that China has deployed antiship missiles, surface-to-air missile systems, and electronic jammers to contested features in the Spratly Islands region of the South China Sea,” the Pentagon said in a statement. (Patricia Lourdes Viray/Philstar. com)
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JUNE 1-7, 2018 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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Canepa: Casting ballot for June 5 primary should not be confusing ‘Voter’s Choice Act’ historic move to increase voter turnout
REAL NUMBERS. National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Chief Director Camilo Pancratius Cascolan; Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Director Derrick Arnold Carreon; Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque Jr.; Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar; House Dangerous Drugs Committee Chairman Representative Robert Ace Barbers; Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Isidro Lapeña; Philippine National Police (PNP) Deputy Director General Ramon Apolinario and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Civil Military Operations J-7 MGen. Rene Glen Paje pose after the presentation of RealNumbers PH Year 2 in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Tuesday, May 29. RealNumbers PH is the government’s report on the anti-illegal drugs campaign launched in May 2017. PNA photo by Joey Razon
DOT chief: Tulfo’s ‘Bitag’ hasn’t given P60-M... PAGE A1 t
up on the return of the funds, Puyat answered, “They said they would. But I will check again. They might have returned it today (Tuesday, May 29).” However, Ramon Tulfo, the eldest of the Tulfo brothers, said that lawyer Ferdinand Topacio was not speaking on behalf of the Tulfos
when Topacio promised that Ben would return the money. “When Topacio said the Tulfo brothers, in a family meeting, had decided to return the P60 million, the guy was talking for himself,” Ramon Tulfo said. Wanda Teo-Tulfo resigned as Tourism secretary after the Commission on Audit raised a
red flag over the P60 million payment made by the DOT for advertisements on “Kilos Pronto (Fast Action),” a public service show produced by Bitag Media and hosted by Ben and another Tulfo, Erwin. Puyat was designated by President Rodrigo Duterte as Teo’s replacement on May 8. n
REDWOOD CITY – San Mateo County Supervisor David J. Canepa reminds residents they can cast their ballots at a variety of voting centers leading up to the June 5 primary. Currently, nine voting centers are open in the county including at Daly City Hall. Starting Saturday, June 2, an additional 30 voting centers will open throughout the county. With the demise of local neighborhood polling centers, voters are urged to mail in their ballots or cast them at a voting center.
“San Mateo County is at the forefront in all of California as far as increasing voter turnout goes. While the trend to vote by mail has steadily increased over the years, voters still want and need options if we want to increase participation,” Canepa said. San Mateo and Yolo counties were the first in the state to conduct all-mail ballot elections under the Voter’s Choice Act. The program was so successful, it is now being extended throughout the state. “The Voter’s Choice Act ush-
ers in increased opportunities to cast ballots, boosts the resources available to voters with disabilities and leverages technologies to allow a voter to access their own individual ballot at all 39 voting centers,” Canepa said. “Some may be confused initially by the loss of neighborhood polling places but I’m confident those who want to vote and participate will have every option to.” Voters can cast their ballot by mail, drop it off at a voting center or fill it out at the vote center by paper or electronically. n
Health care looms large in race for California’s top cop ATTORNEY General Xavier Becerra uses a well-worn refrain to describe his role as the state’s chief law enforcement officer: to defend California’s values. “If that translates into fighting Donald Trump, then so be it,” he said in a recent interview. Becerra has been one of the leading voices in California’s charge against the federal government, filing more than 30 lawsuits on health care and other issues since taking office in January of last year. For example, Becerra, 60, succeeded in temporarily blocking the federal government from denying access to birth control nationwide, and he is leading 15 states plus the District of Columbia in a legal battle to defend the Affordable Care Act. Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown appointed Becerra attorney general after predecessor Kamala Harris was elected to the U.S. Senate. Now, Becerra is taking his chances with voters, running against Democratic Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones, retired judge Steven Bailey and private attorney Eric Early. Bailey and Early are both Republicans. If Becerra — a former congressman representing Los Angeles — wins, his resistance against President Donald Trump is likely to continue. It’s not surprising the Democratic candidates “would step in against the federal government on health care and other issues,” because they see opposing Trump as “good politics,” said Walter Zelman, chairman of the public health department at California State University-Los Angeles. Jones said he agrees on the need to challenge some recent federal policies but believes Becerra is focusing too narrowly on that. “There’s much more to the job of attorney general than just suing the Trump administration,” said Jones, 56, pointing to health care fraud and other legal targets. Still, the two Democrats are aligned on many health care policies, including and the concept of a single-payer system, in which the state would set the rules and pay for the coverage of all California residents. Jones said if he were elected attorney general, he would continue to fight fraud in the health care industry and protect consumers, and would focus on ensuring that insurance markets are competitive. The two Republican candidates oppose both a single-payer health system and the Affordable Care Act — and they criticize Becerra’s tactics. Early, 59, said he would go through every lawsuit Becerra has filed to figure
out which ones to dismiss. And Bailey, 66, said “just because a tweet comes out of Washington, it doesn’t require a lawsuit to be filed the next day.” Early promotes a more aggressive strategy on mental health and opioid addiction. Bailey, who has argued there is too much government regulation in health care, said the costs of insurance are still unaffordable for many people. The attorney general is the state’s leading law enforcement official. The scope of the job focuses heavily on public safety but also addresses civil rights, consumer fraud and environmental protections, among other issues. The health care duties of the job include investigating MediCal fraud and elder abuse, reviewing proposed sales ofnonprofit hospitals and administering an index of child abuse cases. Becerra has definitely elevated the importance of health care as an issue for the office — and Jones, with his insurance background, could push that further, said Dan Schnur, a Republican political strategist who teaches at the University of Southern California and the University of California-Berkeley. For most of California’s history, the attorney general has focused almost exclusively on criminal justice, but that has changed as recent attorneys general have taken on a broader range of issues, he added. Although there have been no major public polls on the race, Becerra starts with a significant advantage as the incumbent, Schnur said. “There is no shortage of complaints that Becerra’s critics can level, but so far it doesn’t appear that any have risen to the level to turn him out of office,” he said. Becerra also enjoys the advantage of an “ideal platform” to take on Trump, Schnur said. Since assuming office, Becerra has sued Sutter Health for alleged anticompetitive practices, arguing that the massive hospital system is overcharging consumers and driving up costs. He also has formed a strike force to take on other health care battles in the state. He recently led 19 states and the District of Columbia in opposing a proposal by the Trump administration to change how federal family planning dollars are allocated. “We will stand up to any and all attacks on women’s reproductive rights,” Becerra said at a press conference. Becerra refuted criticism from his opponents that he has focused too heavily on resisting the Trump administration, pointing to his work on environmental health, sex trafficking,gang vio-
lence and other issues. Each candidate shared his health care priorities in interviews with California Healthline. Jones said that “as attorney general, I’ll have even broader authority to make sure that mergers … and other market practices are not anticompetitive.” As insurance commissioner, he has argued against certain proposed health care mergers, including one between Aetna and Humana that was later called off. And he has investigated insurance companies and arrested hundreds of people for fraud. Jones said he would work to get guns out of the hands of those who should not possess them. He also said he would focus on expanding rehabilitation programs for people coming out of jails and prisons, and would work harder to enforce a law on mental health parity to protect patients from discrimination by insurers. The law generally requires health insurers to provide the same level of benefits for mental and substance use treatment as they do for medical care. Bailey, a longtime criminal and administrative law attorney before he served as a Superior Court judge in El Dorado County, said his “goal is to free the marketplace to be able to function so that consumers have as much choice as possible.” Bailey said California’s current system reduces those choices, and that Obamacare has driven up health costs. Many people are priced out of the market unless they are wealthy, he said. Early, a managing partner at a Los Angeles-based law firm, Early Sullivan Wright Gizer & McRae, said he would do a “deep dive” into the legal issues of mental illness, prescription drug abuse and homelessness. To do so, he said, he would bring together experts and others in the field to figure out how best to deal with people who have severe mental health and addiction problems. One possibility, Early said, might be to involuntarily commit those with severe mental illness more frequently, so they can get the care they need. That could help slow the rise of homelessness and the increase in the number of mentally ill people in state prisons, he said. Early also said he would take more aggressive steps against the pharmaceutical industry, which he called “one of the causes of where we are with the opioid epidemic.” (Anna Gorman/Kaiser Health News) This story was produced by Kaiser Health News, an editorially independent program of the Kaiser Family Foundation.
Ancajas retains IBF title by outboxing Sultan and controlling the fight most of the night. Ancajas’s tactical approach to the fight made the FRESNO, CA – Jerwin Ancajas skirmish dull and the mostly retained his IBF world super fly- Mexican crowd of about 8,000 weight title by outboxing man- became listless and booed both datory challenger Jonas Sultan fighters in many rounds and in the first all-Filipino world title many of the fans head to the fight in 93 years at the Save Mart exit early. Center here Saturday night, May Sultan, tried as he might, 26. (Sunday morning, May 27, in could find way to penetrate AnManila). Ancajas got the nod of cajas’s solid stance. Here and judges Wayne Hedgepeth, Jona- there, Sultan lands a looping than Davis and Daniel Sandoval left but Ancajas took them well. with scores of 119-109, 119-109 The action heated up in the and 117-111. last four rounds as Sultan tried Sultan has been exposed to force the issue and to make for his lack of skill while An- the fight into a street fight but cajas was content in sniping Ancajas, with his highly supeby Dong
Secuya Philboxing.com
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rior skill, caught Sultan many times coming in. In the last round, Sultan gave his all but got a lump in his forehead in return courtesy of Ancajas’s head and body combinations. Sultan may have failed his chance of a lifetime as his skill level was not up to it while Ancajas will continue his journey to probably become the Philippines’ new face of boxing. If anything, Sultan showed his toughness as he broke Ancajas’s knockout streak to four. Ancajas improves his record to 30 wins, 1 loss and 1 draw with 20 knockouts while Sultan dropped to 14-4-3, 9 KOs. n
Palace backs dropping...
on the misuse of the Priority Development Assistance Funds (PDAFs) or pork barrel funds last February 27. The DoJ, however, did not release her affidavit in line with the confidentiality rule under RA 6981. Lawyer Stephen David, counsel for Napoles, earlier said his client was open to becoming a state witness in the new PDAF cases being investigated by the DoJ.
Napoles’s controversial admission to the WPP, through provisional, was reportedly among the reasons why Aguirre was sacked by President Rodrigo Duterte. Aguirre explained though that his decision to place Napoles under the WPP was anchored on a valid ground, not on any alleged compromise. “To be fair to Mrs. Napoles, she has a [valid]ground,” he said, adding that Napoles’ life was in danger.
“Mrs. Napoles is very much afraid for her life. That is why she wanted to be taken out of the Taguig detention center,” he said. According to Aguirre, it is right to allow Napoles to testify and spill the beans on the scam. “I have to clarify that there is no compromise in putting Mrs. Napoles under the WPP. All [she]wants is to be released immediately to the custody of the WPP, which I declined,” he said. n
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New DOT chief gets CA nod
of the Department of Tourism. It was humbling as it was heartwarming having been entrusted with a huge responsibility. It is a great role to lead a vibrant industry that promotes the image of the country and supports economic growth,” Puyat said during the hearing. Prior to her appointment, Puyat was DA’s undersecretary for administration, agribusiness and marketing, and regional engagement. Puyat also used to be DA’s undersecretary for special concerns during the Aquino administration. The new DOT chief has served CONFIRMED. The Commission on Appointments (CA) recommended to the plenary the confirmation three presidents as she was also of the position of Tourism Secretary Bernadette Fatima Romulo-Puyat (left). She was endorsed a consultant with the Presidential to the plenary by the CA Committee on Tourism and Economic Development, replacing Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo after she resigned due to a PhP 60-million advertisement deal with PTV-4. Also Management Staff during the Arin the photo is her father, former Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Alberto Romulo royo administration. Puyat is also the daughter of (center) held at the Senate in Pasay City on Tuesday, May 29. PNA photo by Avito Dalan former senator and Foreign AfWith no objections, Puyat’s fairs Secretary Alberto Romulo. by ROSETTE ADEL appointment was affirmed by the She replaced Wanda Tulfo-Teo, Philstar.com CA for just six minutes. who resigned little more than a FLAG DAY. Philippine flags fly high in front of the monument of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal Park in Manila on Sunday, May 27, President Rodrigo Duterte week after the Commission on ahead of the national flag days from May 28 to June 12. During this period, Philippine flags are displayed in commemoration of the struggles MANILA — The Commission PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan on Appointments on Tuesday, appointed Puyat as the tourism Appointments questioned state- and sacrifices of Filipino heroes who fought for the country’s independence. May 29, confirmed the appoint- chief on May 8. She was sworn run People’s Television Network Inc.’s payment of P60 million to a ment of former agriculture un- into office last May 14. “Last May 14, I took my oath media company owned by Teo’s dersecretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat as the new head of the before President Rodrigo Roa brother Ben Tulfo for airing DOT Duterte as Secretary-designate ads. ■ Department of Tourism.
Dengvaxia toll hits 57 – PAO by MARY
GLEEFER F. JALEA
ManilaTimes.net
THE Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) on Monday, May 28, claimed that the number of people who died after being inoculated with the Dengvaxia antidengue vaccine has risen to 57. “We already have 57 and many pending cases for autopsy scheduled for this week until next week,” PAO forensic expert Dr. Erwin Erfe told The Manila Times in a text message. According to Erfe, at least four cases from Cebu and Albay were slated for forensic examination this week. “We will provide further details about the victims after we have performed the examination,” he said. PAO said that 54 of the 57 victims were children. In addition, Quezon City police officer Vi- physician Kendrick Gotoc have cente Arugay, Camp Crame util- died. Thirteen-year-old Marlon Jay ity worker John Rey Pintor and
Duterte election shows all signs of global populist wave, expert says by AUDREY
MORALLO Philstar.com
MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte’s rise to power shows all the indicators of a global populist movement that bypasses traditional political parties and sees leaders speaking directly to people and tapping into their fears and hopes, a professor at the London School of Economics said. In a paper presented at a Southeast Asia Forum at the London School of Economics, James Putzel said that although the president’s fate is unclear, Duterte’s rise to power as part of the worldwide populist wave will leave an “indelible imprint” on the country’s political future. “The techniques of populist politics are probably here to stay,” Putzel said. According to Putzel, all the indicators of this new way of Lorenzo was the 54th child ex- doing politics can be witnessed amined by PAO, after he died of in Duterte’s improbable victory during the 2016 presidential PAGE A6 elections.
He said that just like in other countries, Duterte presented himself as an outsider who would root out the country’s traditional politicians and would bring a fresh approach to governance from Mindanao. The chief executive’s campaign was also able to mobilize social media as never before seen in the Philippines to propel him to victory, he said. This intelligent campaign on social media allowed Duterte to reach critical voting groups such as urban voters and overseas Filipino workers who were the key to his election win, according to the LSE professor. The revolution in technology, Putzel said, also enabled populist leaders such as Duterte to directly reach the populace and ignore traditional political groups. Duterte was also successful in undermining established political parties, traditional media and scientific knowledge, he opined. Putzel said that Duterte was successful in manipulating in-
formation and using “alternative facts” to reinforce his actions. “Fifth, Duterte won the presidency by appealing to people’s fears of the rising drug trade and widespread addiction among the youth, especially in the cities,” Putzel said. The former Davao City mayor also successfully appealed to deeply-rooted patriarchy in the country through his overt use of misogynous discourse. The president has been criticized for his comments demeaning women, and recently he said that some jobs were not appropriate for them as they could wilt under pressure. Duterte also transcended traditional ideological left-right divides, as seen in his appointments to his cabinet of people from different ideological perspectives. “Duterte’s populist politics is obliterating classic political divides as he appeals to the ‘lowest common denominator’ to win and maintain power,” Putzel said. ■
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Robredo: Marcos lying about Comelec rule on shading threshold by Audrey
MorAllo Philstar.com
MEMORIAL DAY. A U.S. serviceman walks past tombs of soldiers at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in Taguig City on the eve of Memorial Day on Sunday, May 27. The U.S. Embassy in Manila was closed on Mondau, May 28, 2018 in observance of Memorial Day. Manilatimes.net photo by Roger Rañada
Dengvaxia toll hits... PAGE A5 t heart failure on May 15. PAO chief Persida Acosta said Lorenzo received his first Dengvaxia shot on April 26, 2016, and another on October 26, 2017. Erfe said brain hemorrhage and enlarged organs were found in an autopsy sought by the boy’s parents last week. The PAO forensic team led by Erfe and supervised by Acosta had said that children inoculated with the anti-dengue vaccine showed clinical symptoms of headache, abdominal pain, fever, vomiting and diarrhea.
Forensic examination found brain edema and/or hemorrhage, internal organ hemorrhage, and edema or enlargement of internal organs, among others. During the preliminary investigation on the Dengvaxia case on May 24, PAO submitted to prosecutors a document that it claimed was evidence of French pharmaceutical company Sanofi Pasteur’s admission to the dangers of the vaccine. Health Secretary Francisco Duque and current and former health officials are facing charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, torture resulting in
the death of any person and torture committed against children and violation of Republic Act 9745 of the Anti-Torture Act of 2009. The Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption and Vanguard of the Philippine Constitution Inc. filed charges at the Department of Justice against former president Benigno Aquino 3rd, former health secretary Janette Garin and former budget secretary Florencio Abad for their alleged involvement in the purchase of P3.5 billion worth of Dengvaxia and the implementation of a massive vaccination program under which more than 800,000 school children were inoculated with the anti-dengue vaccine. n
MANILA — Former Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is lying when he said that the Commission on Elections did not adopt the 25-percent threshold in the automated counting of ballots during the 2016 elections, Vice President Leni Robredo said. Robredo said that Comelec records show that the threshold used for 2016 was 25 percent while the 50-percent threshold was used in the 2010 polls. “He is lying... because records will show. In fact, the Comelec resolution on this was attached to our pleading,” she said when asked to react to Marcos’ comment that the 25-percent threshold was not backed by any resolution. On Monday, May 28, Marcos, the son and namesake of the late dictator, filed an opposition before the Supreme Court, which sits as the Presidential Electoral Tribunal, to Robredo’s pleading asking the body to reconsider its decision to adopt the 50-percent threshold. Marcos stressed that there was “no categorical declaration in the Comelec Resolution No. 160600 that the 25 percent shading threshold was adopted by the Comelec En Banc in determining the valid votes during the judicial recount and revision of ballots in an election protest.” Romulo Macalintal, the vice president’s lead election lawyer, said that the counting of ballots shaded at least 25 percent was already confirmed by the body in its en banc resolution dated Sept.
Vice President Leni Robredo led her staff in renovating the classrooms of Wawa Elementary School in Navotas City for the annual Brigada Eskwela program of the Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday, May 29. Photo from the Office of the Vice Preisdent
6, 2016 which adopted the recommendation of Commissioner Luie Guia. Marcos supporters on social media have pointed out that the resolution was issued months after the May 2016 polls. Macalintal warned that adopting the 50-percent threshold would result in the disenfranchisement of both Robredo’s and Marcos’ supporters, a view also shared by the vice president. “The two of us should be the ones complaining because we will both be affected. Some of the votes of our supporters will not be considered because of technicality. It’s surprising that he did not want to know the real sentiments of the people,” Robredo said in Filipino. She stressed that what was important was to know the choice of the Filipino voters, who should not be disenfranchised because of Marcos’ desire to return to pow-
er. “You cannot twist legalities, you cannot twist facts just to get what you want,” Robredo said. Marcos is alleging that votecounting machines used during the 2016 elections were rigged to favor Robredo, who was the official candidate of the then ruling Liberal Party. The vice president, who is the current chairperson of the party, has denied all allegations of irregularity. Marcos needs to substantially recover votes in the three pilot provinces he chose for the manual recount for the PET to proceed to the rest of the areas where he alleged cheating happened. Without this substantial recovery, his protest will be junked. When asked if she is confident of her victory, Robredo said, “Very confident, very confident because there was no cheating that happened.” n
‘PH prioritizing territorial defense’ by deMpsey
reyes ManilaTimes.net
THE Philippines is prioritizing the security of its territories, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said on Monday, amid China’s militarization of disputed reefs in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). In his speech during the commemoration of the National Flag Day in Malolos, Bulacan, Lorenzana said addressing the issue of China’s provocative actions would require unity among Filipinos. “Territorial defense is still our main priority that will effectively secure the integrity and sovereignty of our country,” he added. Lorenzana said the country was facing several problems such as terrorism, climate change and destruction of the environment, poverty, corruption, transnational crimes and cybercrimes and encroachment of territories. “We will also be on alert for those groups who are aiming to ruin our democracy and peace.
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We will not let the idealism of anger to prosper, hence, we will put a stop on this to maintain peace and security,” he stressed. Lorenzana’s remarks came after reports from the US-based think tank Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI) and several media outlets showed Chinese construction work in the areas owned by the Philippines within the disputed territories, including Subi (Zamora) reef, Mischief (Panganiban) reef and Fiery Cross (Kagitingan) reef. The Defense chief, as well as the military, were tight-lipped over the issue or deferring the matter to the Department of Foreign Affairs. Over the weekend, AMTI also released a double-feature study revealing that Manila had begun its reconstruction of the collapsed runway on Pag-asa (Thitu) Island. Lorenzana did not make any comment nor confirmation regarding the developments in the island. (Kalayaan Island Group). n
Pres. Duterte’s firing spree to continue until all corrupt out’ by Alexis
roMero Philstar.com
PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte will not stop firing officials until there are no more corrupt personnel in government, Malacañang announced Tuesday, May 29, after the Chief Executive dismissed the government corporate counsel over a questionable legal opinion. Duterte on Monday, May 27, fired Government Corporate Counsel Rudolf Philip Jurado for issuing a legal opinion that allowed the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone to issue franchises outside Aurora province. The president said Jurado gave himself an authority similar to state-run gaming regulator Philippine Amusement and Gaming
Corp. (PAGCOR) Presidential spokesman Harry Roque Jr. said Duterte would continue to be in firing mode until the government is cleansed of corruption. “It won’t stop until the government runs out of corrupt personnel, even if it means firing everyone because that is the promise of the president,” Roque said. “But he believes that while he is firing a lot of people because of corruption, many others want to serve the country,” Roque added. Despite claims that there is double standard in Duterte’s crackdown on corruption, Roque gave the President’s effort a score of nine out of 10. “The campaign against corruption is really effective,” the president’s spokesman said. n
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COPS JOIN BRIGADA ESKWELA. Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel in the City of Dasmarinas, Cavite join the first day of Brigada Eskwela 2018 at the San Miguel Elementary School in Brgy. San Miguel 2, Dasmarinas on Monday, May 28. The Department of Education (DepEd) mobilizes thousands of parents, alumni, civic groups, local businesses, non-government organizations, teachers, students, and other stakeholders yearly to do repairs, maintenance work, and clean-up of public elementary and secondary schools. This year’s theme is “Pagkakaisa para sa Handa, Ligtas at Matatag na Paaralan Tungo sa Magandang Kinabukasan”. PNA photo by Gil Calinga
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JUNE 1-7, 2018 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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OPINION
Decongestion
FEATURES
CABLE cars are fun, they provide great views, and they don’t get stuck in traffic. The public can only wish that Arthur Tugade could finally push through with his plan, first disclosed when he assumed his post as secretary of transportation, to install a cable car service in the country. If the plan pushes through, the pilot area, of course, will be trafficchoked Metro Manila. Tugade has cited the example of Bolivia, which is using cable cars to ease traffic gridlocks. He reiterated his proposal the other day, adding that he wanted cable car fares to be competitive with those of public utility vehicles. The Japan International Cooperation Agency, which has conducted studies on the impact of traffic jams in Metro Manila, reports that road congestion is causing P3.5 billion in lost economic opportunities every day. The figure has been revised from the previous estimate of P2.4 billion, calculated in terms of lost productivity, higher fuel consumption and logistics costs, among others. Commuters in Metro Manila can spend up to six hours a day traveling between their home and their workplace or school. The Metro Rail Transit 3 is an unmitigated disaster. The inadequacy of the mass transport system is the overriding reason for the refusal of car owners to leave their vehicles at
home. It is also the reason for the surge in ownership of motorcycles, which aggravate road congestion as well as air and noise pollution. People in the country’s densely populated cities will welcome any measure that will ease traffic jams. The Metro Manila subway project is finally underway. Numerous proposals have been made to decongest the mega city. For the long term, mass transport modernization and infrastructure improvement are critical. For the short-term, the government must compel bus and jeepney owners to end the boundary system and strictly implement regular schedules for picking up and unloading passengers at designated stops. The delivery and collection of shipments at the Port of Manila can use fine-tuning. The Pasig River ferry service is underutilized. Where there is no more space to build new roads, certain parts of gated subdivisions can be opened for free public use. Authorities can work on these measures while proposals such as cable car services are being pursued. (Philstar.com)
Editorial
Philstar.com photo
Congratulations, Class of 2018: Honoring community colleges
MY DAUGHTER Katrina just gradu- The Fil-Am ated with an Associate’s degree in politi- Perspective cal science from San Mateo Community College here in California, and will be transferring to Cali- GEL SANTOS-RELOS fornia State University in the fall to continue pursuing a bachelor’s degree. This was a choice she made as she wanted to be personally invested in her education and her career in life. She was a working student as she pursued her Associates Degree, and was grateful for the free boarding and lodging and car she got from us, her parents, after graduating high school. Her rationale for her decision was that she wanted to take advantage of the relatively lower cost of education in community colleges and state colleges without having to be burdened with paying for the astronomical cost of attendance in private colleges in private colleges and universities, the tuition fee of which can go up to as much as six figures at least for four years in college. This choice would spare her from paying for her student loans for at least 10 years. For Katrina, it was a choice from many options available to her with
parents willing and able to help her in pursuing higher education. Her experience in going to community college, though had been a defining moment for her, being vice president of their student government and college ambassador. Because of her direct interaction with students, she has shifted her career path from international relations to policies in education to help struggling and economically disadvantaged students to benefit from the equalizing power education brings to people. For Katrina, going to a community college first was just one of her choices. For many, if not most Americans, it was the only choice. For some, going to one would forever be just a dream because minimum wages lag behind the escalating cost of living and education. These marginalized sectors of our society had no choice but to find one, two, if not three jobs to support themselves and their families — hope could they find the time and resources to pay for college? On May 25, 2018 — my husband and I were humbled by what we witnessed during the graduation ceremony. You see the whole family there, beaming with pride because,
for many of them, their student was the first ever in the family to have an associate’s degree. Most of the other family members were lucky to finish high school. Then there were those who looked like they were the parents or the grandparents, when in fact they were the graduating students. The wrinkles in their faces would tell a lot about how the decades of struggles and being “OP” (Out of Place” ) did not daunt them from pursuing their dream to get a higher education. There were also those young mothers who went up the stage with their babies with them and you could see the pride and the joy in their faces for achieving the seemingly insurmountable challenge of raising small kids, working and going to college. Their smiles and tears of joy radiated the hope that they feel that they could now offer the kids that walk with them on stage with opportunities better than what they had because they now have the competitive edge of an associate’s degree. There were also people of different races coming from different countries of the world, donning their ”national outfit” or symbols with pride, excited to gratefully give back to their adoptive country that is the United States of America — the nation that immigrants built.
I hope President Donald Trump and his education secretary could attend these graduation ceremonies so they could understand the importance community colleges in building a stronger, more prosperous better America. In this way, they could fully support these community colleges instead of cutting funding and subsidies for them. This will help them truly get to know the true core of the heart of America — which is beating, pounding deep inside these people young and old, working so hard to fulfill the American dream. As the government website states: “COMMUNITY COLLEGES offer two-year programs leading to the Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree. These colleges also have technical and vocational programs with close links to secondary/high schools, community groups, and employers in the local community. You can find large community colleges with multiple campuses in an urban/suburban setting or small campuses in a rural setting. Undergraduate students studying at community colleges can earn academic credit towards a bachelor’s degree. Earning academic credit at a community college, which is usually less expensive, can help lower the overall cost of a bachelor’s degree. Community colleges may also have a
more flexible admissions process. Community colleges and 4-year colleges and universities often develop special agreements for the transfer of credits and degrees between the institutions. In this “2+2 process,” you can earn a bachelor’s degree with two years of community college, followed by two years of university study. Community colleges often lead the United States in educating students in cutting-edge fields such as biomedical technology, biotechnology, robotics, laser optics, internet and computer technologies, and geographic information systems. The small size of classes at community colleges can be highly beneficial for international students as they adjust to the pace of U.S. academic life and practice their English-language skills. Community colleges offer a variety of support services and cross-cultural programs, including tutoring, advising, career planning, study skills, and counseling—many designed specifically for international students.” CONGRATULATIONS, Class of 2018. The best is yet to come! *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos
What if Sereno or Robredo declared like Joan of Arc: ‘I have nothing more to say’ Opinion
YEN MAKABENTA I DIGRESS in this column with a note on the story and words of Joan of Arc, even though my ostensible subject are the cases of Maria Lourdes Sereno and Maria Leonor Robredo, the two highest-ranking female officials of our republic. The two narratives naturally link together as a study in contrast. Joan’s story has the simplicity of finality and closure. The stories of the two Marias simply go on and on, like broken records. It has struck me while watching the Sereno and Robredo melodramas, that they may be handling their respective crisis strictly on the advice of their lawyers, instead of drawing on deeper reserves of character. I discuss this alongside Joan’s story to underscore a point. It is said that in moments of extreme urgency, character is sharply revealed. The human quality that is brought into view comes from more profound depths than those qualities in-
forming the personality that is visible by everyday light. They evoke the mystery of the human being that the great tragic dramatists evoke. Joan of Arc’s last words In the case of Joan of Arc, the events of her trial did not just befall her, she shaped them. It so happens that I have lately been reading the fascinating and gripping account of Joan’s trial and inquisition. What stands out in her story are her firmness of character and her triumph in the end in spite of her being burned at the stake. Joan’s imprisonment, trial and inquisition transpired over a period of weeks and months. She was examined and reexamined endlessly by her inquisitors. In prison, she was not allowed to hear mass and was denied the sacraments. When you combine this with her success in leading French troops in battle, you get a sense of a full-bodied person, a figure of greatness. In the face of heavy questioning, although she was only 19, she maintained a consistency of character throughout; she did not fall for the traps laid by her inquisitors; and she held firm to her visionary experiences. On the final day of her or-
deal, Joan told her inquisitors: “If I were at the place of execution, and I saw the fire lighted, and the faggots catching and the executioner ready to build up the fire, and if I were in the fire, even so I would say nothing else, and I would maintain what I have said at this trial until death. “I have nothing more to say.” The simple but powerful words sealed her fate and closed the inquisition. Joan was burned at the stake on May 30, 1431, which means that tomorrow is her death anniversary. Joan’s death was followed by the expulsion of the English from France and the unification of France, two events that were largely the result of the impetus Joan gave to French national feeling. In 1450, Charles VII held a revision of Joan’s trial; and in 1555 there was another revision which formally pronounced her innocent of the charge for which she was condemned. She was beatified in 1909 and canonized in 1920. Can the ladies shut up? Relating now Joan’s story to the two Marias, I wonder what kind of closure would ensue if Sereno and Robredo were
capable of Joan’s finality and pithiness in their statements. Suppose VP Robredo were to say in reply or comment on the talk about an alleged affair with her LP party handler Rep. Bolet Banal, “I have nothing more to say.” What will the media, the gossipmongers and the detractors have left to run with? In all likelihood, nothing, unless there is substance to the affair. Suppose ex-CJ Sereno were to say, “I have nothing more to say,” regarding the quo warranto case and her disputed qualifications for the position of chief justice. The media, the critics and the detractors will have nothing more to chew on, no one to laugh at. These scenarios could transpire, but I strongly doubt whether the Sereno and Robredo camps, and their common financiers will allow them to shut up. This is unlikely because their entire value to the opposition rests on keeping the idea of fighting the Duterte administration going? All funding will stop the moment they clam up? Average needs representation too It is striking that both Sereno and Robredo assiduously avoid being interviewed by serious
journalists. Although they appear incessantly on TV, they stick to interviewers who throw softball questions at them. Their images are constantly flitting on the screen, yet the public hears nothing substantive or meaningful coming out of their mouths. Democracy, judicial independence, faith and other platitudes pour out freely from their statements and press releases, but I have yet to see one statement or speech from either Sereno or Robredo that is coherent. It is perhaps unfair to set their careers alongside the formidable figure of Joan of Arc. Long after her death, Joan of Arc held inexhaustible fascination for writers and scholars, who produced such works as: George Bernard Shaw, Saint Joan; Jean Anouilh, The Lark; Mark Twain, Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc; C.W. Lightbody, The Judgments of Joan; and P.B Barrett, The Retrial of Joan of Arc. What will happen to the two Marias after their present time of`fame and celebrity? There may be no interest whatever in Sereno and Robredo once they leave public office. Their leaving appears to be more interesting than their
occupation of public office. Paradoxically, it makes sense for Sereno and Robredo to cling tenaciously to their posts, because they have nothing else to look forward to, no careers to return to. Sereno should seriously think about running for the Senate in the 2019 elections. Her gift for gab seems to be tailor-made for life as a politician. She will have enviable name recall when she runs for office, although her shortcomings will also be wellremembered. In the case of VP Robredo, everything hangs on her prevailing in the VP election recount in competition with former senator Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos. Although Robredo is nominally the chairman of the Liberal Party, she does not appear to have the tools or the wit to lead a political party, let alone one down in the dumps. There are many gifted and brainy women in our country, but why are our two highestranking female officials not representative of our best and brightest women? A wit has said that mediocrities also have a right to representation in a democracy. Which is more representative, the Senate or the House in Congress? (ManilaTimes.net)
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.
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BUSINESSJ& COMMUNITY ournal
New USCIS policy: Students will accrue unlawful presence sooner U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently issued a policy memorandum changing how the agency will calculate unlawful presence for foreign students and exchange visitors. “Unlawful presence” is a legal term of art which describes time spent in the U.S. after a noncitizen’s period of authorized stay expires or any presence in the U.S. without being admitted or paroled. Aimed at reducing the number of overstays in the U.S., this new policy will directly impact noncitizens in academic (F-1), vocational (M-1), and exchange visitor (J-1) status, as well as their dependent spouses and children. Under this new policy, which will be effective August 9, 2018, unlawful presence will be calculated in a way that will essentially result in these noncitizens accruing unlawful presence at an earlier point in time. The accrual of unlawful presence may severely impact one’s immigration status in the U.S. In short, noncitizens who accrue more than 180 days of unlawful presence and who subsequently depart the U.S. are subject to a three-year bar from reentry. Similarly, individuals who accrue one year or more of unlawful presence are subject to a tenyear bar should they depart the U.S. Further, those who accrue more than one year of unlawful presence, whether in a single stay or in the aggregate, and who then reenter or attempt to reenter the U.S. without being admitted or paroled are permanently inadmissible. These bars may prevent a noncitizen from reentering the U.S. as either a temporary nonimmigrant or as an immigrant. As such, even if a noncitizen becomes eligible for a green card and departs the U.S. for consular processing of an immigrant visa, he or she may be barred from reentry due to unlawful presence. Under current policy, F, J, and M nonimmigrants are typically authorized to remain in the U.S.
Your Immigration Solution Atty. BrittAny MilliAsseAu And nAncy Miller for “duration of status” rather than to a certain date like other nonimmigrant categories. Their authorized period of stay ends when they fail to maintain their status or engage in activity that is inconsistent with their current status. Currently, individuals in F, J, and M status do not automatically begin accruing unlawful presence after a status violation or failure to maintain status, but rather only after the occurrence of a certain event, including a formal finding by USCIS that a nonimmigrant status violation occurred or after an immigration judge orders the noncitizen removed from the U.S. Under the new policy, individuals in F, J, and M status who failed to maintain their status before August 9, 2018, will start accruing unlawful presence on August 9, 2018 unless they had already started accruing unlawful presence on the earliest of any of the following dates: 1) the day after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) denied a request for an immigration benefit if DHS made a formal finding that the individual violated his or her nonimmigrant status while adjudicating a request for another immigration benefit, 2) the day after I-94 expiration, or 3) the day after an immigration judge ordered the noncitizen excluded, deported, or removed from the U.S. Further, F, J, or M nonimmigrants who fail to maintain status on or after August 9, 2018, will start accruing unlawful presence on the earliest of any of the following: 1) the day after he or she no longer pursues the course of study or the authorized activity, or engages in unauthorized ac-
tivity, 2) the day after completing the course of study or program, including any authorized practical training plus any authorized grace period, 3) the day after the I-94 expires, or 4) the day after an immigration judge orders him or her excluded, deported, or removed from the U.S. Not only does this policy change impact F-1, J-1, and M1 nonimmigrants, but it also impacts their nonimmigrant dependent spouses or children who are admitted contingent on the principal remaining in a period of authorized stay. In essence, an individual in dependent status may begin accruing unlawful presence merely due to their family member’s status violation. It should be noted that children under 18 years old do not accrue unlawful presence. If you are currently in or considering F, J, or M status, it is important to speak with a knowledgeable immigration attorney to see how this upcoming policy change may impact you. In addition, if you have ever failed to maintain your F, J, or M status, or have engaged in any activity that is inconsistent with your status (e.g. worked without authorization), you should consult an experienced immigration attorney regarding how that will impact your ability to legally reside in the United States. ***
New law a boon for foreign investments President Rodrigo Duterte signs the Republic Act 11033 ‘Converting the Davao Oriental State College of Science and Technology into a State University’ and Republic Act 11032 or ‘Ease of Doing Business Act’ during the ceremonial enactment at Malacañan Palace on Monday, May 28. Joining the President are Senate President Vicente Sotto III and House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez. Photo by Robinson Ninal JR./Presidential Photo by richMond
Mercurio Philstar.com
FOREIGN investments are expected to further pick up following the signing into law of a measure that would make doing business easier by promoting efficient government services. American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines executive director Ebb Hinchliffe said the new law on ease of doing business would encourage and entice more foreign firms to invest and locate in the country.
“It is also very positive for companies already here as they expand,” Hinchliffe said. “We hope that with this landmark legislation, more foreign companies will be encouraged to explore the many opportunities in the Philippines and more foreign investments will make their way into the Philippines to pave the way for economic opportunities for all,” European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines president Guenter Taus said. Foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows reached a record
high $10.05 billion in 2017. This year, FDI may reach a new record high of about $12 billion, according to the National Economic and Development Authority. “We also hope that the enactment of this law will improve the ranking of the Philippines in the World Bank Doing Business report, and provide for a more business-friendly and competitive environment. This is a step in the right direction in making the Philippines more competi-
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Philippines to raise $2 B from foreign borrowings
Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced by Mary Grace Padin Philstar.com immigration firms in the United States with offices in Pasadena, San Francisco, THE Philippine government Las Vegas, Manila and China. plans to raise about $2 billion Telephone: (800) 795-8009 more this year through the sale E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com of offshore commercial bonds, website: www.rreeves.com including samurai and global *** bonds, according to the Bureau The analysis and suggestions offered of the Treasury (BTr). In an interview, Deputy Treain this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are surer Sharon Almanza said the not a substitute for the personalized government has already issued representation that is essential to $2.2 billion in offshore commercial securities out of the $4.2 bilevery case. lion set in the 2018 borrowing (Advertising Supplement) program.
These refer to the $2 billion global bonds issued last January at a coupon rate of three percent, and the $200 million panda bonds or renminbi-denominated securities sold at five percent interest rate last March. The remaining $2 billion, Almanza said, has yet to be issued and would be split between samurai bonds or yen-denominated securities and U.S. dollar denominated global bonds. “For the commercial (bonds,) (there is) a total of $4.2 billion. We already raised $2.2 billion, so the remaining is $2 billion. But
In an interview, Deputy Treasurer Sharon Almanza said the government has already issued $2.2 billion in offshore commercial securities out of the $4.2 billion set in the 2018 borrowing program Philstar file photo
then it’s split between the samurai and dollar bonds,” she said.
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Community Journal
JUNE 1-7, 2018 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
California divorce
The CTV Files atty. lilli B. BaCuli SOMETIMES, divorce happens. The following seeks to address or clarify some common misconceptions about divorce. “What if my husband/wife does not want to sign the divorce?” or “My husband/wife does not want to sign the divorce papers, what can I do.” California is a no-fault divorce state. A party filing for divorce does not need the consent of the other in order to file a Petition for Dissolution (Divorce) or, in some instances, to get a judgment of divorce. Perhaps the confusion lies in the part where the other party (your soon-to-be ex-spouse) needs to be served with process. In proceeding in an action for divorce, there are procedural requirements dictated by law that must be followed to ensure that the other party has notice of the action (that is, that s/he is being brought to court for an action of
divorce) and that s/he is given time to respond. However, there is no requirement for the other party to respond. There is no requirement that s/he sign any document at all. All that needs to happen is that s/he is properly served with process according to the rules. “What? I have to share my retirement earnings? This is mine, I worked hard for it!” Generally, all of your assets prior the marriage is just your own separate property. However, California is a community property state and so once you get married, all property acquired during marriage is community property. And if anything out of the community property is used towards separate property, the community might turn out to have a claim on part(s) of separate property. Separate property are “all property acquired before marriage; all gifts, bequests, devise, or descents. All property acquired or exchanged with traceable separate property; and all property acquired after separation.” “S/he is the one who left our family. I shouldn’t have to pay support.” Again, California is a
no-fault divorce state. There is no assignment of blame or fault; fault does not factor in the equation in the issue of support. Some of the factors that the Court will look at to determine whether there is basis for support, and if so, in what amount, are – length of marriage, age of parties, if there are minor children in the marriage, income of both parties. “I’m smart enough to handle my own divorce. Why do I need an attorney?” You don’t need an attorney. There is no requirement that you must have an attorney. However, in cases involving issues such as domestic violence, custody disputes, child support, spousal support, and division of community property assets it would be wise to seek advice from a licensed and experienced attorney so as not to waste your time and money, not to mention the court’s time and resources, especially when you have to keep going back to court because of incomplete or missing documents that could have been addressed from the very beginning by a competent and knowledgeable attorney.
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Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette aDeva Maglaya SO here you are in the late afternoon of your life. Sundown is on the horizon. The end game is in sight. You know it isn’t a matter of if but when. You’re still upright on two legs, although your knees are starting to buckle. You aren’t looking forward to walking on 3 legs with the help of a cane or a walker. At least, not just yet …… In the quiet of the early morning hours of days before the coming winter season of your life, you wonder if there is yet one glorious summer time, a glimmer of hope in reprising one’s life unencumbered by the structures and strictures of past choices, right or wrong. There is a part of you that longs for some kind of reprieve to break away and create a life that fills your soul with gladness, so light, so ethereal as the flutter of butterfly wings — that all the hurts, pains, heartaches, and sense of brokenness that have weighed you down and held you hostage for so long a time suddenly went up in smoke, went pouf and VOILA, disappear as though by magic. A few of your contemporaries have passed and you wonder if you still have what it takes to stay the course you have chosen until the end game. You question if there is time enough to do all those things you wish you did when you could. There’s that long bucket list burning a hole in your back pocket. Why call it a bucket list? Kicking the bucket means “to die” from where the phrase “bucket list” comes from. There are many explanations but the one that seems to make sense is that of a method of dying, either by execution or by suicide. A person stands on a bucket, with a noose around his neck to cause death by hanging from a beam
Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS
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WHILE cardiovascular mortality rates the past decades have gone down, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) has remained the leading causer of death in the United States. Several clinical studies have shown that there is a strong association between dietary patterns and the incidence of CVD, and that people eating predominantly plant-based foods have lower rates of heart disease compared to those on animalbased foods. This does not even include the beneficial anti-cancer effect of plant-based foods and the higher risk for cancer of meat-eaters. What is a plant-based diet? The definition varies as there are different forms: 1. Vegetables, fruits, cereal, yogurt, beans, fish, and poultry; 2. Elimination of refined sugars, white flour, and animal oils; 3. Minimal animal products; 4. Seafood, with and without, dairy; 5. Eggs and dairy; 6. No animal products at all (vegan), just ‘plants.’ But the common among them is absence of red meat. The major concern and rationale here is that red meat consumption is linked to cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Those diets, some with multivitamin supplements, have been proven safe and healthy, practiced for centuries in Asia and rural Europe. Is eating minimal red meat safe? While eating red meat only once a week is obviously not a plant-based diet, it could be safe among some people, depending on their genetic make-up, metabolism, and lifestyle, especially those who do regimented exercise daily. Since science
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The bucket list (First of a series)
“What goes on four legs in the morning, two in the afternoonand three in the evening?” asked the Sphinx. “Man” Oedipus answered after some thought. –Riddle of the Sphinx by the final act of an executioner kicking the bucket or by kicking it himself. I am pretty sure that is NOT a scenario most people would choose. But we now refer to the bucket list as your TO DO LIST before the end. You groan, perhaps not because of the thought of dying itself, but because there is just too many in your bucket list, so little time, low levels of personal energy and scant resources. SIGH… There’s also this thing called Legacy – a big word but it only means ‘What do you leave behind?’ Those anointed by grace to live large will have streets and schools named after them, marble statues on a town square or etched on the side of a mountain like Mount Rushmore. But for ordinary people, great memories frozen in still photos and videos and some intangible influence beyond death would be enough. Perhaps a few tears will be shed. There will be sadness for some time. There will be cloudy days as though nature feels the pain of separation, yours and theirs. You pray those you left behind can move on and live purposeful lives pleasing to God. Life goes on. Most women can be calm, cool and collected accepting the notion of goodbyes more readily than men. It seems nature has blessed women with the internal fortitude and strength to be able to plan for the final event with remarkable equanimity. As for men, well, not so much…… The idea of mortality is not something that most men are comfortable with. Don’t
fret. It is in their DNA. There are exceptions of course. Men’s strength is expressed in other ways no less than women, like nature intended it. The solution is always the same when one is overwhelmed and paralyzed. With too many items in one’s bucket list, pare it down to bite sizes. Make a molehill out of a mountain. Size it down as David did when he slew Goliath. Cull out non-essentials ruthlessly, the fluff as we call them, and PRIORITIZE. Since life itself holds no guarantees on how long we are to live, SIMPLIFY and do a triage of sorts. Do the most important things first, the one that is near and dear to your heart. Then when there is time left over, you can still choose to do the trivial stuff on your bucket list just for the heck of it. OR simply delete the rest of the list. With still a smidgen of time left, sit back and savor doing nothing. You’ve earned the right to this bit of luxury. For now, select a handful of those things in your bucket list that have the highest chance of coming to fruition given your time frame. In tech speak, this means before your life’s energy goes into ‘low batt mode’ and life has run out of sockets to plug into. Next week: An idea for The Bucket List … *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com
Plant-based diet
still does not know who among us (based on our genes) could safely smoke, eat red meat ad libitum, drink alcohol daily, or not exercise at all, and still not get sick; the prudent health strategy is to minimize or eliminate red meat and high carbohydrate diets, and concentrate on proteins. This might sound against what we learned in the kindergarten and beyond, but clinical evidence today shows the adverse effects of eating carbohydrates (rice, bread, sweets, etc.) and saturated fats (red meats), especially processed meats. All soft drinks are toxic to our body, especially to children. Someday, science would be able to categorize us humans, based on our genetic composition as to who could eat, drink, or use what, and “are immune to their bad (unhealthy) effects, and who would develop major diseases (cardiovascular, metabolic, Alzheimer’s, or cancer) doing the same. That future would be most welcome. What are the clinical evidences? “Randomized controlled trials and epidemiological studies indicate that plant-based diets, particularly vegan diets, are associated with significant improvement in CVD events, lowering risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension and decreasing symptomatic and scintigraphic myocardial ischemia and coronary artery disease, as published recently in the Journal American College of Cardiology. Any other studies supporting plant-based diet? The data above are supported by many recent landmark reports, including Song et al.’s large prospective cohort study of U.S. Nurses and other health professionals, which shows “higher intake of animal protein (including processed red meat, unprocessed red meat, dairy, poultry, and eggs) was positively associ-
ated with mortality, whereas the inverse was true for high intake of plant protein. In another recent meta-analysis, Kwok et al. found similar results with vegetarians experiencing a 29 percent lower risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality relative to nonvegetarians. These findings suggest the importance of protein source and support recommendations to increase plant protein intake, which in turn calls for education of physicians, patients, and the public about the largely unrecognized protein content of plants (e.g., peanuts and beef having the same protein content, 26 g per 100 g).” What are some actual clinical proofs? Here are some actual reports from the medical literature that are mind-opening and truly convincing: “The 16-week randomized controlled trial showed that participants who ate a diet of vegetables, grains, legumes, and fruits significantly improved their overall metabolic condition, say Hana Kahleova, MD, PhD, of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine in Washington, DC, and colleagues. “Our study suggests the potential of a lowfat plant-based diet in diabetes prevention, addressing both core pathophysiologic mechanisms — insulin resistance and diminished beta-cell function — at the same time. The prevalence of diabetes is 46 percent to 74 percent lower in people who eat a plant-based diet compared with meat lovers in the general population. “Diets rich in plant- vs animalbased monounsaturated fatty acids show significantly lower rates of total and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality, particularly when the plant-based fatty acids replace other notoriously unhealthy fats, including saturated or trans fats, as well as refined
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New law a boon for foreign... PAGE CJ1 t
tive, especially against its regional neighbors,” Taus said. “Having the public sector respond to private sectors request for license and permits quicker can only be a good thing for business,” Hinchliffe noted. President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, May 28, signed Republic Act 11032 or the Ease of Doing Business Act of 2018 in hopes of correcting bureaucratic red tape that continues to hound government institutions. Under the EODB/Efficient Government Act, the Department of Trade and Industry explained that businesses can expect streamlined processes, reduced processing times from all government agencies, including government-owned and controlled corporations.
Government agencies shall be made to comply with the prescribed processing time: three working days for simple transactions, seven working days for complex transactions and 20 working days for highly technical transactions. Local government units are mandated to set up Business One Stop Shop to facilitate business permits application. The law also provides that barangay clearances and permits must be issued at the city or municipality to speed up transactions. Apart from streamlining, the law also provides for the creation of a Central Business Portal that will receive and capture application data on business-related transactions, while Philippine Business Databank shall provide
LGUs and national government agencies access to information to verify validity and existence of businesses. “We realized that for the EODB reforms to be fully implemented and integrated, a whole-of-government approach was necessary. Thus in full support of the president’s vision, Congress enacted a law that will make doing business in the Philippines easier and more importantly, create a more efficient government,” Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said. The law will be implemented by the Anti-Red Tape Authority, an agency under the Office of the President that will monitor compliance of agencies, and implement and oversee national policy on anti-red tape and ease of doing business. n
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DNA testing to establish family relationships
Immigration Corner ATTY. MICHAEL GURFINKEL, ESQ IN the Philippines, establishing family relationships can sometimes be extremely complex. A child may be born and then “given” to a relative, such as a childless aunt. A simulated birth certificate is bought on Recto Street and then recorded, making the aunt the biological mother. In other cases, a child is born out of wedlock, but the mother does not want to disclose the identity of the father (who may be married to someone else), and so lists the father as “unknown.” Years pass, and perhaps the true biological family member wants to file a petition for the child, but the birth certificate and family relationships are so messed up, that it could be hard to unravel, especially if the birth certificate lists someone else or “unknown” as a parent. One possible solution is DNA testing, whether it is between a parent and child or even be-
tween siblings. There are several requirements in connection with DNA testing, such as: • The test should be performed by a lab/testing facility approved by DHS or the Embassy. • USCIS and the Embassy cannot “require” a person to undergo DNA testing; they can only “suggest” the person to do so. • The Embassy and/or USCIS may consider what other documentation may exist to prove identity, or whether no such documentation exists. • The DNA results need to show at least a 90% or higher probability of the claimed relationship. Several other requirements must be met in connection with DNA testing to show family relationships. However, if you have a case where the claimed relationship is in doubt because of lack of documentation, or simulated birth certificates were filed, you should consult with an immigration attorney who can evaluate the situation, whether it is for petitioning a family mem-
ber or perhaps a parent wanting to transmit U.S. citizenship to a child. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and re-enactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw and Twitter @GurfinkelLaw Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 1-7, 2018
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Philippines to raise $2 B from foreign... PAGE CJ1 t Earlier, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez said the government is eyeing a second sale tranche of global bonds by late third quarter or early fourth quarter this year. Dominguez said the sale is in anticipation of the U.S. Federal Reserve’s policy moves, such as further increases in US interest rates. The finance chief said proceeds of the sale would be used to finance the government’s programs, particularly its infrastructure initiative and to manage the liabilities and maturing debt of
the government. National Treasurer Rosalia De Leon said the BTr is conducting the groundwork for a planned samurai bond issuance. De Leon said the BTr would work with five Japanese banks for the fund raising activity. These include Daiwa Securities Group, Nomura Holdings Inc, Mizuho Bank Ltd., Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp., and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group. The Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) had earlier raised the share of foreign loans in the country’s to-
Calendar of Events across
tal borrowing mix. From the previously approved level of 74:26 – in favor of domestic sources – the borrowing mix was adjusted to 65:35, allowing for more foreign debt. This translates to P640 billion in domestic borrowings and P346 billion in external credit, Almanza said. For foreign borrowings, Almanza said the government also plans to borrow $2.5 billion through official development assistance from the country’s development partners and multilateral institutions. ■
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 JUNE 2
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/effectively-market-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. SHE TRIED TO COMPLY, BUT HER CASE WAS DENIED… A MOTHER’S DESPAIR AND AN ATTORNEY’S RESCUE ON AN ENCORE EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY!” Rowena and Mike came to the U.S. in 2010 to build a better life. Rowena was sponsored as a teacher. As she was filing her third extension for her H1-B visa in 2016, the shocking news hit her. She was denied! Then her adjustment (green card) application was denied because, according to the USCIS, she worked a mere 14 days without the necessary DHS authorization. Three lawyers tried handling her case, to no avail, and her family was urging her to “give up” and return to the Philippines. She finally decided to consult with “the attorney of last hope,” Atty. Michael J. Gurfinkel, in a last-ditch effort to be able to provide a better life for her children. Watch how Atty. Gurfinkel was able to solve the problem in a record 43 days, turning a disastrous denial into green cards for the entire family, on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC. (Advertising Supplement)
Business News US Bank recognizes young artists in San Francisco during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month MAY is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This year, we celebrated the occasion in San Francisco with an integrated marketing campaign, including sponsorship of the Asian Pacific Fund’s “Growing Up Asian in America” art contest. Community Development Regional Manager Michelle Brega served as a judge for the contest and presented the awards on May 5, 2018, on behalf of U.S. Bank. “It meant a lot that we made the commitment,” she says. “I’m thrilled the bank sponsored the event. “I was misty-eyed the entire ceremony as I juggled both the themes of the day and the emotions that it evoked,” she continues. “The youth voices were moving, powerful and optimistic. They spoke on complex themes
and shared deeply personal stories. One of the contest winners, Emma Li, was moved by the gender inequities she sees in the world, from kids’ movies to Congress. Her artwork, titled “Women of the Future,” symbolized her hope for what’s to come. “We still have a long way to go for women to reach parity with men, even in the US,” Emma said in her acceptance speech. “It is reflected even in popular kids’ movies! In The Smurfs, male smurfs outnumber the girl 100 to 1. At school, I discovered that women have a much lower average salary than men. There has been no woman president, and less than one-fourth of the US congress are women! In addition, in US universities, only 24 percent of full professors are women.
“I have a dream that someday there will be a female president, a woman astronaut on Mars, more women winning Nobel prizes and all people of all genders having equal opportunities,” she continued. “Finally, the glass ceiling will be shattered!” The winners inspired Michelle and reminded her of her own childhood, growing up Asian in Maryland. “I did not feel as confident or supported as these children do today. I am overjoyed that they’ll carry their communities into the future with such passion and optimism, and hope all of us will support all of our youth in their commitment to make community possible.” See more of the winning entries at http://asianpacificfund. org/what-we-do/awards/growing-up-asian-in-america/2018winning-entries/. ■
Spring into savings with four ways to reduce cooling costs ahead of summer SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.— Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) wants customers with air conditioners to know they can cool their home for less as temperatures heat up. Today, PG&E shares four simple ways for customers to save energy and reduce cooling costs. “This spring and summer, we want to help our customers manage their energy costs and save money. Customers can utilize our tips, tools, and programs to uncover savings through these hotter months,” said Vincent Davis, senior director of customer energy solutions at PG&E. 1. Raise the thermostat when at home and turn it up when leaving: Customers can save on annual cooling costs for each degree the temperature is increased in their home during the hot summer months. Set the thermostat to 78 degrees when at home, health permitting. Turn it up to 85 degrees when not at home. 2. Check air filters once a month: Heating and cooling consume the most energy in the average home — up to 50 percent of total home energy use. Dirty filters cause your system to work harder to keep the area cool, wasting energy and money.
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.
Money Smart for Small Business course in El Monte, CA Join this introductory two-day business course designed for new business owners, selfemployed 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) 4731605. 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
3. Consider purchasing a smart thermostat for your home: Through PG&E’s Smart Thermostat Rebate, customers receive a $50 rebate on the purchase of new smart thermostat to help save on home heating and cooling costs. Visit PG&E’s Marketplace to compare and shop for qualifying ENERGY STAR® models. 4. Maintain your air conditioner: Customers can lower their monthly energy bill by keeping air conditioning equipment working at top efficiency. PG&E’s AC Quality Care Program offers a free AC assessment ahead of summer and list of available ACrelated rebates. To take advantage of additional
programs, tools, and savings opportunities, PG&E recommends customers: • Go to pge.com and sign up for a free online account. Signing up to access an online account is critical to customers’ understanding their energy use. When logged in, customers can also, review energy use and costs, compare bills, and more. • Find a rate plan that works best for their home at pge.com/ ratechoices. Customers can analyze their energy usage and find the lowest cost or most convenient rate plan, based on their electric use history. PG&E customers can also explore new time-of-use rates to determine
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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
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JUNE 1-7, 2018 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
DOF: Drop in competitiveness ranking both wake-up call and false alarm
The Philippines fell nine notches to the 50th spot out of 63 economies tracked in this year’s World Competitiveness Ranking published by Switzerland-based business school International Institute for Management Development. Philstar file photo by Ian
nIcolas cIgaral Philstar.com
WHILE the sharp drop in the Philippine economy’s global competitiveness was a “wake-up call” for policymakers, the country assessment was not backed by actual data, the Department of Finance claimed Tuesday, May 29. The Philippines fell nine notches to 50th spot out of 63 economies tracked in this year’s World Competitiveness Ranking published by Switzerland-based business school International Institute for Management Development. The IMD said the Philippines experienced the most significant decline in Asia, dragged down by “worsening” tourism, employment and public finances, as well as concerns about the country’s education system. Commenting on the latest competitiveness ranking, Finance Undersecretary Gil Beltran said the ratings methodology employed by IMD “mechanically ranks cold numbers without understanding the dynamics of the economy.” Beltran, who is also the DOF’s chief economist, said the dip was still a wake-up call, “notwithstanding its being a false alarm in some respects.” Citing government data, the Finance official said the unemployment rate dropped to 5.3 percent last January while international tourist arrivals to the Philippines rose by 16.1 percent to 1.4 million visitors during the first two months of the year.
EMPLOYMENT
He said IMD’s findings about the Philippines’ supposed worsening public finance were “simply laughable” and “reflect[ed] gross research incompetence.” “If the state of our public finance was really deteriorating, credit rating agencies would have taken notice and have downgraded us accordingly,” Beltran remarked. “But no, we’re still investment grade!” Across sub-factors, the country’s ranking crashed in terms of economic performance, government efficiency, business efficiency and infrastructure. Arturo Bris, director of the IMD World Competitiveness Center, had reportedly said that compared to other Asian countries, the Philippines lacks appeal for foreign investors despite the nation’s booming economy. Bris also said that tourism may have suffered from “exchange rate instability and… the political environment.” “The Philippines’ investments seem to be driven by the public sector. The public sector is not very efficient,” the IMD executive was quoted as saying in a report by BusinessWorld. “So when we rely on public financing, the government becomes a weak spot, because corruption has an overall effect.” ‘Textbook economics’ But according to Beltran, the IMD, which has published the rankings every year since 1989, failed to distinguish between short-term adjustments and long-term prospects and has mistaken the former for “loss in competitiveness.”
Saying the Philippines’ 2017 current account surplus lifted the country to the 31st spot, Beltran stressed that the IMD’s “use” of the current account as a measure of competitiveness was like “the misguided mercantilist thinking that the greater the surplus, the better it is for the economy.” “In the first place, it really makes no sense to rank economies based on the size of their current account balances relative to GDP (gross domestic product) if the objective is to assess competitiveness,” Beltran said. “The depreciation in the currency was also noted and was associated with more instability. But textbook economics teaches that a country’s competitiveness improves as its currency depreciates!” he added. A widening trade gap has brought the nation’s current account position from a surplus to a deficit, which is expected to further swell and weaken the peso. For this year, the central bank expects a current account deficit of $700 million, accounting for 0.2 percent of GDP. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez earlier expressed disbelief over IMD’s latest competitiveness rankings, explaining that the Philippines’ growth rates and reforms “have been faster.” “Lower on economic growth? Infrastructure growth? Business efficiencies? But we have one of the fastest growth in the world. Faster than most peers. And infrastructure improvements done on some and continuing,” Lopez said in reaction to the report. n
EMPLOYMENT
SERVICES
Price, quality of Grab worsened
Antitrust body says new players will hardly challenge firm’s market influence by roy
stephen c. canIvel Inquirer.net
THE price and quality of Grab Philippines’ services have worsened after it acquired its only rival in the market, that not even the entry of new players could challenge the company’s influence, the competition watchdog said. The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) monitored the market before and after Uber ended its Philippine operations in April, following Grab’s regional acquisition of Uber in March. This is according to PCC’s statement of concerns, which was published on Monday, May 28. The statement is part of PCC’s ongoing review of the deal, wherein the watchdog could approve, block or allow the transaction while imposing conditions to address anticompetitive concerns. However, even in the absence of a verdict, the statement of concerns issued by PCC’s Mergers and Acquisitions Office (MAO) hinted that the market had already become problematic after the deal. After Uber left the market last month, Grab imposed higher fares and more frequent surgepricing “despite an increase in the supply of Grab drivers,” PCC
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said, noting Grab now has a 93percent hold of the market after Uber drivers switched apps. The antitrust body based the post-acquisition price increase on more than 27,000 booking requests and 1,100 rides surveyed before and after Uber’s exit on April 16. PCC said the surveys gathered information on the actual prices, service and booking conditions of Grab and its potential competitors. The deal has “resulted and will likely continue to result in substantial lessening of competition in the relevant market,” PCC said. Moreover, PCC found out that transport network companies (TNCs) such as Grab cater to a captive market, “an overwhelming majority” of whom would still choose to book a ride despite price increases. Amid pressure to allow more players in the market, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has so far accredited five TNCs. PCC, however, said that historical data showed that it would require “a significant amount of time and cost” to grow their operations that would be enough to contest Grab. “During such period, Grab will not be constrained by any com-
petitor, allowing it to exercise its market power in the relevant market. Therefore, the [MAO] finds that new entrants in the relevant market are not likely to exert sufficient competitive pressure on Grab,” PCC said. The parties involved have 10 days to comment on the statement of concerns. A representative from PCC said that Grab and Uber received their copies last May 23. In April, PCC tried to keep Grab from flexing its muscles in the market unchecked by imposing some interim measures. However, this became more difficult after the LTFRB stepped in. Prior to the release of its statement of concerns, PCC imposed interim measures on Grab and Uber to keep the findings of the review accurate, which included the resumption of independent and separate operations for the time being. Scheduled to end its services on April 8, Uber agreed to extend the availability of its app to April 15 given the ongoing PCC review. However, following the release of PCC’s interim measures, LTFRB slapped Uber with a ceaseand-desist order, requiring the firm to stop its operations on April 15. n
Plant-based diet
carbohydrates. “In the study of more than 63,000 women in the Nurses’ Health Study and nearly 30,000 men in the Health Professionals Follow-Up, an average of 22 years of follow-up showed that a higher intake of monounsaturated fatty acids from plants was associated with a 16 percent lower risk for death from any cause. A higher intake of monounsaturated fatty acids from animals was meanwhile associated with a 21 percent higher risk for death from any cause. “In overweight adults with no history of diabetes, a low-fat, plant-based vegan diet can reduce visceral fat and significantly improve both pancreatic betacell function and insulin resistance, potentially decreasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, according to researchers.” What is the societal cost-benefit from this diet? The benefit to society in general of a healthier diet imple-
mented by the people at large is a massive reduction of disease and healthcare-related expenditures, such as for medical consultation, medications, hospitalization, rehabilitation, especially for high blood pressure, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, chronic kidney diseases, stroke, heart failure, and heart attack, which is the case currently almost 60 percent of Medicare beneficiaries. Example: if plant-based diet is adopted, the incidence of hypertension would be reduced to 25 percent of the present rate and save about 30 percent (billions of dollars) of the Medicare budget and reduced sick calls and man power deficit in the work force, besides avoidance of personal and family health problems. So, what is the healthy strategy? Turning off the faucet of unhealthy foods that are poison to our body to prevent diseases and maximize longevity makes more sense than mopping up the floor later of major illnesses and pre-
SERVICES
mature deaths. A rational and practical approach is to eat mostly plant foods and push ourselves away from the dining table less than full, as our mothers and grandmothers (with wisdom and foresight, before the informational age of the internet and the world wide web) have been telling us for centuries. ***
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. For more data, visit philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com (Advertising Supplement)
(650) 689-5160 • http://www.asianjournal.com
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 1-7, 2018
New app allows Oakland community to file complaints against Oakland police
THE City of Oakland and the Community Police Review Agency (CRPA) have launched a new app that allows the public to file complaints against the Oakland Police Department online from any computer, tablet, or mobile device with internet access. The app is located in the complaint portal of the CPRA, https://apps. oaklandca.gov/CPR... and is a case management system that will also improve internal tracking, investigation, and data collection of complaints. The system revolutionizes the work of the CPRA and makes it easier than ever for the public to hold the officers accountable. This is part of the City of Oakland’s new OAKAPPS, which offers the residents of Oakland secure and private online access to participating City programs and services. The new app delivers three components: 1. Allows the public unprecedented ability to file and track complaints of police misconduct online via phone, tablet or computer. 2. Provides a case management infrastructure so intake and investigatory staff have a centralized location to build and store electronic case files, and supervisors can track the progress of investigations as well as staff workloads and workflow. 3. Provides back-office functionality to perform advanced analytics on data related to investigations, allowing CPRA staff to track patterns of complaints and
investigatory details, and to create the flexibility to change the functionality of the system as the needs of the CRPA change. The public-facing portion of the new app is designed to make it easy for members of the Oakland community to file complaints of police misconduct and track the progress of investigations into those complaints. Through the “File a Complaint” function of the app, the public will be able to file complaints either under their names or anonymously, or a representative can file on behalf of an individual with a complaint who is unable to file the complaint themselves. Members of the public can attach evidence that they may have to support their complaint directly to their online complaint and this evidence will be logged directly into the CPRA case file. The single sign-on system allows registered users to file multiple complaints, track all their complaints, upload additional documents and evidence into their case file, access many documents associated with their case file, and correspond with the investigator assigned to their case through a complaint dashboard. The app helps the City of Oakland to better manage the collected data through a robust case management system. Complaints are automatically logged into the system and form the basis for electronic case files that centralize information and allow investigators and supervisors to track all aspects of CPRA inves-
tigations. The app provides back-office functionality to perform advanced analytics on data related to investigations and to track patterns of complaints and investigatory details. The internal system tracks investigations from complaint through the entirety of the CPRA investigation, including any outcomes that may occur after the CPRA investigation is complete, including disciplinary actions and policy and training recommendations. The system allows for the centralized electronic collection and storage of evidence related to specific cases including police reports, video and photographic documentation, police body-worn camera footage, witness statements, and interviews. In addition, the new system includes back-office functionality that allows supervisors to generate detailed statistical reports on all aspects of the Agency’s work, track these statistics in real time, and perform analyses of trends and patterns in complaints of officer misconduct. The back office includes numerous flexible report-generating tools based on the information stored in the database. The new public-facing app and case management system were developed over the past five months by a team of City staff from the Oakland Information Technology Department, CPRA (formerly CPRB) and outside vendor DoITLean. The project was completed on time and $100,000 under the $410,000 budget. n
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Reports of aggressive animals at Martinez temporary dog park THE City of Martinez has recently received reports of aggressive animals at the Temporary Dog Park. In accordance with the Martinez Municipal Code Chapter 8.24.210 – Designated Dog Park Facility Regulations, and Contra Costa County Code Article 416-4.402 – Animals at Large, owners/handlers are legally responsible for their dogs at all times, including effective control and behavior. Aggressive dogs must be immediately removed by the owner/handler. Additionally, in the event of an aggressive dog incident, park users are encouraged to immediately call Contra Costa County Animal Control Services at (925) 335-8300 to file a complaint. Dog owners/handlers are reminded to be respectful of others and follow the rules for use of the park, or risk citation and/or loss of privileges at the facility. This park facility is for the enjoyment of all users. Below are some recommendations on what to do in the event of an aggressive dog incident: • Separate the dogs in altercation. • Exchange contact information, dog licenses and vaccination history with other owner and any witnesses to incident.
• Take dog to a veterinarian, even if it seems they are not injured, to rule out any unknown injuries. • Contact Animal Control as soon as possible to file a complaint and document the incident. • If it is clear one dog was the aggressor and caused the fight, that owner is responsible to cover any liabilities and costs associated with the injured parties including veterinarian bills and/or damages. • Be aware that your dog may require rehab work from an animal behaviorist if you find them acting differently after the attack. Overall, Animal Control serves
recommends to use “common sense” when entering public spaces with your pet. Be aware of your dog’s and other dogs’ behavior and intervene to prevent an incident from happening. Always be attentive to your surroundings and be your pet’s advocate for their safety and wellbeing. As always, In the event of illegal activity and non-life-threatening emergencies, please call the Martinez Police Department Dispatch at (925) 372-3440. The City will be installing additional signage at the park in the near future to reinforce public awareness of conditions for use and what to do in the event of violations. n
Spring into savings with four... PAGE CJ3 t
what works for their home. • Avoid bill surprises with Energy Alerts and Budget Billing. Customers who need help balancing their budget and avoiding bill surprises can sign up for the free Bill Forecast Alerts at pge. com/energyalerts to be alerted by text, phone or email if their monthly bill amount is project-
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ed to exceed the amount they specified. Customers who wish to receive a more consistent and predictable monthly bill based on their average annual usage can sign up for Budget Billing at pge. com/budgetbilling. • Take a free Home Energy Checkup at pge.com/myenergyuse. This simple web-based assessment allows customers
to find out how much of their household’s energy goes to heating, hot water, appliances, and lighting. Customers will receive a personalized list of ways to reduce energy and lower their bill. It’s free, easy and takes only five minutes to complete. For more tips on how to save this summer, visit pge.com/summer. n
California divorce
Not all divorce cases are the same. It is important to be properly informed about your rights and responsibilities under California law in divorce proceedings. The wrong advice or information can and will hurt you, and waste your time and money. Consult a licensed and experienced family law attorney to help you navigate
through your divorce.
*** Atty. Lilli Berbano Baculi is an associate attorney with Chua Tinsay & Vega, A Professional Legal Corporation (CTV) - a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento and Philippines. The information presented in this article is for general information only and is not, nor intended to be,
formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorney-client relationship. Call or e-mail CTV for an in-person or phone consultation to discuss your particular situation and/or how their services may be retained at (619) 955-6277; (415) 4958088; (916) 449-3923; lbaculi@ctvattys. com. For general information visit www. chuatinsayvega.com. (Advertising Supplement)
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JUNE 1-7, 2018 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
Friday, June 1, 2018
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cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - June 1, 2018
Concept artist Anthony Francisco on the Filipino influences in ‘Black Panther’ & his contributions to the Marvel Cinematic Universe by Christina M. Oriel / AJPress Since its release over three months ago, “Black Panther” has broken a handful of records, including achieving its status as the third highest-grossing film in the United States. For those who have yet to see it or want to do so for the nth time, the Marvel blockbuster has released its DVD and Blu-Ray a few weeks ago. A lot has been written about the success of the film, as well as its historic representation of minority actors and characters. in addition to the influences of African heritage throughout “Black Panther,” the uniform for the Dora Milaje (Wakanda’s all-female special forces) was partially inspired by the ifugao tribe in the Philippines. That’s thanks to FilipinoAmerican Anthony Francisco, senior visual development artist on Marvel Studio’s Visual Development team. “i’m just glad that everyone likes it and no one is taking exclusive ownership of the movie. i feel like it’s for everyone. i feel a sense of pride that i was able to use a lot of influences and put it into one really badass iconic costume that still reflects African culture,” Francisco told Asian Journal. The designer, who was working on “Avengers: infinity War” at the time, was brought on board for “Black Panther” back in summer 2016, even before the script was finished. “The process usually starts from the comic book reference source material, which we try to keep close to,” he narrated. “That’s the key thing that makes us successful. Then when director Ryan coogler was signed on, the head of [Marvel’s] Visual Development, Ryan Meinerding, talked to
coogler and then relayed the vision to me like the description of how it should look or a reference material of what direction i should go in.” Francisco scoured through material to find textures and patterns he liked to influence his sketches. The process overall, he estimated, took somewhere around two months — the bulk of the labor involved research. “As a concept artist, the most important thing in design is to research. The more things you know, the more things you could remix into your design and know what’s been done and make sure you know how to blend different influences,” he said. During some instances, he had the chance to directly talk to coogler to get a better understanding of the latter’s vision. Using coogler’s notes and what was referred to as the “Wakanda Bible,” Francisco then proceeded to drawing and rendering in Photoshop. “i do those sketches first to problem solve the way the costume patterns would be or the silhouettes and the cuts before undertaking a big rendering in Photoshop so i could be more efficient with my time. i decide to keep my sketchbook open and then i start painting in photoshop and just blocking out the figure. Starting off with a naked body first, i try to build it as if you’re wearing clothing. i put a layer of an undershirt and on top of that, more clothing and armor. So when i turn off and on the layers, i could mix and match sometimes. it’s just easier to pretend that i’m dressing up something,” he described his method. After the outfits were illustrated, they were then material-
“Black Panther,” which became the third highest-grossing film in U.S. history, came out on DVD and Blu-Ray a few weeks ago. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios
The outfits for the Dora Milaje in “Black Panther” were illustrated by Francisco, using African and Filipino influences, among others.
ized by costume designer Ruth carter. “For Marvel’s Visual Development, our purpose is to design the heroes and villains of the Marvel cinematic Universe (McU) and from there, our designs go to the costume designer who makes them come to life and translate them for the big screen. it’s a tough job but we try to make sure our designs translate well,” he said. “Ruth carter did an amazing job of making the designs come to life. We had like four costumes done before she got on board but the rest of the other designs, it was all her.” The final sketches for the Dora Milaje, he said, were “75 percent African [primarily the ndebele, Dinka and Maasai tribes], 10 percent samurai Japanese armor, 5 percent Filipino, 5 percent native American and 5 percent Medieval armor — spin those tribal ideas and make it futuristic modern armor…but push it [to be] even more high-tech.” Those are all evident from the beading and patterns on the outfits to the long rings around the women’s necks to the splittoed shoes they wear. “i think my favorite moment is when they’re going to pick up nakia (played by Lupita nyong’o) and it just shows a lot of Okoye’s (Danai Gurira) character and then right away, you see she’s not your typical traditional warrior. She’s still funny, she’s smart, and just like a really good role model. But maybe i’m biased because i’m looking at the costume that i did on her. it just looks so good. When Lupita wore her costume, my design, that was awesome too. Someday, hopefully, i could meet them because i don’t think that they know that i designed their costumes. i would love to give them a print of my images. That’d be cool,” he said. As for the Filipino influences, Francisco said he grew up seeing tribal decor at relatives’ homes. Those elements stood out to him enough that they made their way to designs for “Black Panther,” like the tabard on Okoye’s armor inspired by a table runner and the gold rings on the side of her uniform from anting-anting (good luck amulets). Following the release of “Black Panther,” Francisco has done several interviews about how his Filipino heritage was a part of the outfits. “My dad read one of my interviews and he told me, ‘Maybe the reason why you remember that is because the ifugao people would come from their mountains and perform from house to house in cubao. They’d be dancing in front of us in bahag (loincloth) clothing…’ All the while i thought it was just based off what i’ve learned from school, which is also true ‘cause we learned about a bunch of other indigenous Filipino tribes,” he said. With the DVD of “Black Panther” out already, Francisco hopes more audiences will see it. “You’ll see the awesomeness of the movie and you’ll see the behind-the-scenes stuff,” he said. “even if people aren’t into the comic books, Marvel’s movies are so popular because they get the right writers and directors, the ones who put a lot of emotion into their films and
Fil-Am Anthony Francisco, senior visual development artist on Marvel Studio’s Visual Development team.
AJPress photo by Noel Ty
Francisco’s rendering of Loki in “Thor: Ragnarok”
The character of Okoye in “Black Panther” Illustrations by Anthony Francisco
universal stories i guess that everyone could relate to. But that’s also the testament to the Marvel characters in the comic books. Marvel characters always have a flaw, which makes them more relatable to people.” Behind the artist Francisco, who recalls drawing Marvel and Dc characters at an early age, briefly studied art at the University of Santo Tomas, before he and his family immigrated to Los Angeles around the age of 17. He was pushed toward studying physical therapy, but a counselor noticed that he already had some art credits. He said his parents weren’t too opposed to him pursuing a career in the field. He started with the idea of becoming a comic book artist because it was “the boom of animation” when he came to the United States. “i tried to do that and i took some classes, but i had to draw a lot of drawings to make them move and i thought that was too difficult,” Francisco shared. “But i was still going to push for it, it’s just that your arm starts to hurt and some people would give me tips like, ‘Maybe that’s not what you should be doing. You seem more like a designer.’ So, that’s like the first thing i did, creature design for special effects. And that’s where my door into the entertainment industry happened.” His first job in the industry was at Amalgamated Dynamics incorporated (ADi), an Academy Award-winning character effects studio founded by Alec Gillis and Tom Woodruff, which gave him the opportunity to design on a spec script. excited about making double compared to his minimum wage job, Francisco realized that one could make money by drawing. He left for a year to continue formal training at Associates in Art in Van nuys, california, before he returned to the company full-time. “A teacher once told me, ‘Do what you love and the money will come.’ That’s helped me with my nearly two-decade
Teenage Groot, who appears in “Avengers: Infinity War”
career to be truthful to yourself and do what you really want to do,” he said. Bubble Boy (2001), starring Jake Gyllenhaal, was the first film he worked on. “i did the bubble,” Francisco shared. “And when you watch the DVD, the special features has my artwork in it.” His portfolio followed with “Men in Black ii,” “The Passion of the christ” and the 2002 “Spider-Man” film. “i turn everything more in a positive way like if, for example, i did not get the design, instead of thinking of, ‘Oh, i’m a terrible artist. i didn’t get it.’ i think of it as ‘now i know that’s not the direction’ so i help out. And i learned that from ADi and Alec Gillis, he’s the one who told me that. if you get good feedback on 80 percent of your design, it’s good enough to build off of so you don’t have to be so critical of yourself all the time,” he said. The Fil-Am designer eventually moved to Marvel Studios after he was brought on by a friend, charlie Wen, who was then the co-head of Visual Development. “He brought me on to the team and i think from there, the producers and directors responded to my work even though i would say i’m not as good. i mean, i wasn’t as good as i am now when i first got in. So it’s kind of lucky that it really shows design is very important in how good you render and also how you come up with ideas,” he said. now going on his sixth year, he has much to be proud of, as he has been involved in many of the studio’s biggest projects. One character, in particular, is the tree-like creature Baby Groot, whom Francisco drew for “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” and then transformed into a teenage version (voiced by Vin Diesel) in “Avengers: infinity War.” The latter movie, which came out in theaters on April 27, is considered the highestgrossing film worldwide for 2018 thus far. “i developed him from when he was in the pot to when he had legs to dance and finally teen Groot. i did many various ages he could be in. i am not sure how old he is in the movie but i was designing him to be 14-16 years old,” he said, add-
ing that his young children were inspirations for the character. Other movies he’s worked on are “Thor: Ragnarok” (Loki), “Ant-Man,” “Doctor Strange,” and “The chronicles of Riddick.” “What else am i proud of? i’m proud of working with this amazing team. They all look out for each other and make sure people get the right credit. i think Marvel Studios is very good with that,” he said of the studio’s team of five visual development artists. As for what’s next for Francisco, he says some of his work can be seen in “Ant-Man and the Wasp” coming out this summer, and “captain Marvel” — the first solo female superhero movie in the McU — and a sequel to “Avengers: infinity War,” both releasing in 2019. With having to constantly create professionally, he said it’s important to keep the mind active. “i like to do landscape painting just to relax my mind and sketching. i sketch a lot. Or write down sentences and words that sound interesting. Also, looking at art, classical art or newer art. But i really like rhythm a lot and portraiture. A lot of anime, i like to watch anime on netflix. it’s a good source of reference and comic books too,” he said. He also gets ideas while spending time with his two kids, an 11-year-old son and 9-yearold daughter, both of whom are Jiu-Jitsu world champions. For budding artists, Francisco says visualizing your goal and practicing every day are some of his top pieces of advice. “Visualizing the goal that you want and trying your best to work hard to get to that goal. Working hard is a given, right? Work hard, do your best. But some people really do their best but they don’t get anywhere yet, not yet, but eventually, you’ll break that barrier and you’ll get to where you need to go. So don’t give up on yourself. Artists tend to be very sensitive people,” he said. “Practice every day and don’t worry about comparing yourself with other artists. You know just use them as inspiration but focus on yourself toward getting better. Don’t complain about situations you can’t control.”
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Dingdong, Anne reunite in Juan Felipe Restrepo scores big, a not-a-love-story movie Actor-model winning best in acting awards in Hollywood The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – June 1, 2018
by Christina
alpad ManilaTimes.net
wHIlE working together is nothing new for Anne Curtis and dingdong dantes, being paired opposite each other is definitely a first for both boxoffice stars. Curtis and dantes first met in the teen-oriented TV show, “T.G.I.S”—she at 14 and he at 18—but they were given different partners at that time. Curtis was with Chubi del Rosario while dantes was with Antoinette Taus. Hence, the latest Viva Films movie “Sid And Aya: Not A love Story” marks the Princess of All Media and the 49th Box office Entertainment Awards’ Film Actor of the year’s firstever screen pairing, much to the delight of their huge following. “when we first worked together 20 years ago, sobrang bata pa ako nun and support roles lang ako palagi. Hindi ko ever naisip na magkakatambal kami. In that sense, this teamup is 20 years in the making,” Curtis recalled during the movie’s media conference. “Anne was very familiar in the set. when she joined us in the show, she came from the big movie ‘Magic Kingdom’ and she also happens to be the youngest in the set, so she easily stood out. Yung familiarity in working with each other, I believe ay hindi nawala,” dantes, meanwhile, shared. The 33-year-old actress then added that while they have never played as couples before, their stint in “T.G.I.S” helped them have a right footing in Sid And Aya. “I guess it helped na nagkakatrabaho na kami 20 years ago kasi sobrang kumportable, hindi na kami nagkakailangan sa set ngayon,” Curtis noted. As such, both actors agree that the story of Sid And Aya could not be more perfect as their first project together. In the story, dante plays
By Monet
Lu
Hollywood, CA - In living his American dream, Hollywood actor-model Juan Felipe Restrepo is continuously setting goals for his international career. Back in his country of Colombia, he was involved in a popular theatre group named “la Maleta Roja.” This led him to performing in numerous plays inside and outside Colombia and Ecuador via the touring group, International Theater Festival. After moving to los Angeles and graduating from the prestigious American Academy of dramatic Arts (AAdA), he was immediately signed by a After first working together in the ’90s TV show ‘T.G.I.S,’ box-office stars Dingdong Dantes Dantes and Anne manager and an agent. Curtis star opposite each other in ‘Sid and Aya: Not A Love Story’. Photo courtesy of Viva Films In less than a year, ReEven the movie’s actors Sid, an insomniac, while Curtis strepo’s major achievements guaranteed that the story of portrays the role of Aya, the include receiving several Sid And Aya is a refreshing mysterious woman Sid meets awards in acting, and writing one for the audience to catch. a screenplay. “The Prodigal and asks to spend time with “Napakaganda po ng him as he battles those long, (Hijo Prodigo),” a short film material na the moment I read he wrote based on the true sleepless and empty nights. it, I was challenged to find a Based on the trailer reevents he witnessed from one way to tackle the character leased by Viva Films, Curtis of his close friends. The film is and I know, dingdong felt the and dantes displayed such about a closeted gay teenager same. The characters kasi, strong chemistry. who came out to a conservahindi sila yung tulad ng mga But as dantes’ character tive latino family, and shows nakasanayan natin na lumalaSid tells the audience, “Hindi what many latino teenagers go bas sa pelikula,” Curtis noted, through after they come out of naman lahat ng may ‘I love taking pride in their unique you,’ ay love story na, eh.” the closet to their traditional characters. Hence, the film’s tagline parents. “Maraming interpretaabout it not being a love story The film gave him the 2018 tions with the great script became an intriguing topic for Best young Actor Award at Film that direct Irene was able to the audience. Freeway’s 2018 los Angeles create. She has the interpreta- Actors Award. It also won him To this, director and writer tion, us actors have different Irene Villamor (“Camp Sawi” two awards at Festigious Interinterpretation and even in the national Film Festival: 2017 Best and “Meet Me In St. Gallen”), process of editing, the editors Actor at and the Best lGBT who worked out the story could have had a different for four years, noted, “Dapat Festival Award. The film also interpretation of the story. panoorin kung bakit siya hindi won him 2018 lA Shorts both Sobrang naging collaborative Silver Awards Best Actor and love story kahit na tungkol ito effort siya kaya, depending on Best drama, as well as the 2018 sa mga taong naghahanap ng how you look at it, puwedeng April Best Actor Award at Top pagmamahal. It’ll be a giveiba-iba rin ang makuha ng away if I tell you why but I am Shorts Film Festival. sure you’ll be delighted to find audience sa pelikulang ito,” This past year he had dantes ended. out once you see the movie.” booked 48 different projects
Juan Felipe Restrepo starred and wrote the script of the award-winning film “Hijo Prodigo” (Prodigal Son), which continues to receive awards from different award-giving bodies.
from indie features, commercials, web series, shorts, music videos, working mainly as leads, with one where he was excited about most was the privilege of working with Mexican actor danny Trejo. There is no stopping this young Hispanic actor/model living his dreams in Hollywood and his becoming popular in the Asian market as he had just been hand-picked by two popular Filipino couture designers to model in a fashion show slated on June 2. Get to know more about his other skills on his website: www.JuanFelipeRestrepo.com. *** 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
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 shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary
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celebrityworld The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - June 1, 2018
celebrity world By Ferdie Villar
DonalD John Trump, the 45th and current president of the United States, will be celebrating his 72nd birthday on Thursday, June 14. Prior to entering politics, he was a businessman and TV personality. Trump was born and raised in Queens, new York City and earned an Economics degree from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He then took charge of the Trump organization, the real estate and construction firm founded by his paternal grandmother, which he ran for over four decades until 2017. During his real estate career, Trump built, renovated, and managed numerous office towers, hotels, casinos and golf courses. Besides real estate, he started several side ven-
tures and has licensed the use of his name for the branding of various products and properties. He owned Miss USa and Miss Universe pageants from 1996 to 2015, and he hosted the nBC reality show, “The apprentice,” from 2004 to 2015. His calculated net worth as of 2017 is $3.5 billion, making him the 544th richest person in the world. another celebrity celebrating his birthday this June is actor John lloyd Cruz. one of the most successful movie actors in Philippine showbiz, John lloyd will turn 35 on Sunday, June 24, which is also the feast of St. John the Baptist. other June birthday celebrants are: June 1 - Club Royale
Former senator Ramon Magsaysay Jr. will celebrate his birthday on Tuesday, June 5. Magsaysay is shown with his close friend, beauty impresario Ferdie Villar in this photo taken during his last visit here in the Bay Area.
US President Donald Trump celebrates 72nd birthday on June 14
Club Royale board member Loyda Viray David will celebrate her birthday on Friday, June 1.
board member loyda Viray David; June 2 - Manila’s First lady, Dr. loi Ejercito; June 3 - Christin “Tin Tin” Garcia; June 4 - Queen of Kundiman Sylvia la Torre, and former actress Pacita arana; June 5 - Former senator Ramon Magsaysay Jr., and choreographer anna Feliciano of “Wowowin”; June 8 - Former Mr. United nations World Scott ancheta, and Hercules student leader Michael Cabrera; June 11 - Former Mrs. United nations international Estela Bijar; June 12 - Sexy actres Rufa Mae Quinto; June 13 - Daly City businessman lambert Paniza, and columnist Julie Yap Daza; June 14 - The late senator Miriam Defensor Santiago; June 15 - Philippine news owner and publisher Francis Espiritu;
Multi-award winning actor John Lloyd Cruz will be celebrating his 35th birthday on Sunday, June 24.
U.S. President Donald John Trump heads the list of prominent personalities celebrating their birthdays this month of June. The president will be 72 years old on Thursday, June 14.
Colma community leader Aida Viray will celebrate her birthday on Friday, June 22.
June 19 - Fiesta Filipina Cuisine in las Vegas owner Ernie Guevarra; June 20 - Ballroom dancing king louie Rubio; June 21 - actress andie Eigenmann, and former Miss RP Former Mr. United Nations World Scott Anceta Filipino student leader from Hercules Michael Diaz Tourism and Miss Philippines of San Jose will celebrate his birthday on Friday, Cabrera will celebrate his birthday on Friday, June 8. June 8. runner-up Krystal ann Dizon Grant; June 24 - Burlingame busi- and; June 22 - Colma community ness executive Mightor Garcia; June 30 - Bank executive leader aida Viray; Bernie de Barrio. June 26 - Singer/dancer June 23 - Former ilocos Sur Gab Valenciano, and former To all celebrants, a very governor luis “Chavit” Singson; First Gentleman Mike arroyo, happy birthday!
Wil Dasovich on inspiring people online by Iza IglesIas ManilaTimes.net
FiliPino-aMERiCan Wil Dasovich is prominently known as a housemate in the reality television show “Pinoy Big Brother: lucky 7” in 2016, but prior to that, he has endeared himself to Filipinos with his fluent Tagalog and quirky use of gay lingo in his video blogs, or commonly known as vlogs, shared in popular video-sharing website YouTube. Despite big chances of making it to show business, he decided to continue on inspiring Filipinos around the world through his never-ending adventure from country to country as he experiences different cultures and lives. His videos are also well-known for his high energy, wild antics, fitness, food and motivational talks. “after ‘PBB’, i’m back to my normal living. i’ve been
doing YouTube even before [i got to] the show, at that time i already have a few thousand subscribers. Entering the ‘PBB’ house was like a break from the YouTube world. i was in the house for three months and then after that, i went straight back to YouTube and pick up where i left off,” Dasovich said during the press conference of YouTube FanFest at the World Trade Center. “a lot of people thought i wanted to be an artist but i never planned that. Before going inside, i said that the whole point for me was to show to television everything that goes on YouTube because at that time, vlogging was still not known for most of the people here in the Philippines. and so after “PBB”, i got a lot of my other housemates to do vlogging and they also became content creators. a year after that, vlogging become very mainstream and normal type of thing here. That was the point, para mapansin yung vlogging community,” he explained. Today, the 26-year-old continues to make videos about his daily life on his vlog “Wil’s World” where he was able to share his recent battle in fighting colon cancer. He refused to let his diagnosis last year slow him down, and chose to continue to daily record his treatment and recovery as a way to stay positive, encourage fellow cancer patients and keep his audience close. Beside him throughout his entire cancer story and road to recovery is his buddy—now girlfriend—model and cosplayer alodia Gosiengfiao whom he also met through YouTube and award shows. Wil Dasovich
Inquirer.net photo
“it was weird because he was the healthiest person i know—he exercises, he eats well. He is also the person who always convinces me to eat healthier because i love sweets. i don’t really exercise that much because i do a lot of things,” Gosiengfiao shared. “of course, things happen. i just give all my support because what’s also important was the amount of time i should spend with him. You work and come back lang naman eh. after everything, after overcoming the challenge, that’s when we can go back to normal,” she further noted. indeed, Dasovich’s perseverance and positivity touched the hearts of audiences around the world, and because of this, his subscribers skyrocketed to one million in a few months—a milestone that he thought was a few years away. and just in april, Dasovich was named Vlogger of the Year by the 10th Shorty awards, an award-giving body for social media which honors “the best of social media by recognizing the influencers, brands, and organizations on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, instagram, Snapchat, Musically and more.” “it’s surreal. Parang di ako makapaniwala hanggang ngayon pero masaya ako. i never thought i would win an international award in new York City along with the top creators. it was definitely crazy,” he enthused. Finally, Dasovich added that he continues to seek medical advice amid his revelation of being cancer-free in February. “it’s a continuous battle. it’s something you have to deal with throughout the years which is a misconception that a lot of people kind of forget. all of us have challenges in life but what is more important is how you react to the challenges you face. That will really define you, your character and how you go on and succeed,” he ended.
entertainment The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - June 1, 2018
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Angelica Panganiban on her journey so far: I’m happy by Alfred
BAyle ManilaTimes.net
KalayaanSF preps for 120th anniversary of Philippine Independence June 12, 2018 will be the 120th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day and KalayaanSF, a Bay Area organization partnered with the Philippine Consulate General of San Francisco and other community and non-profit groups, is hard at work preparing exciting events for this celebration. In keeping with the spirit of Kalayaan, a Filipino word meaning “freedom,� Philippine Consul General Henry S. Bensurto Jr. explained that the significance of these efforts is in “empowering the generations of Filipinos abroad by igniting a deeper interest in their culture and his-
tory, fostering a deeper sense of identity, and strengthening and expanding connections with one another.� Piano concert by Maestro Raul Sunico, KalayaanSF Festival, community heroes, JR and Jaya highlight KalayaanSF June celebrations Two special events are in the offing to celebrate this occasion in June. The first is a piano concert by world-renowned Filipino pianist, Raul Sunico which will be held on Saturday, June 9, at the beautiful and historic Marines Memorial Theater at 609 Sutter Street, a stone’s throw from union Square. This black-tie affair
will bring together concert aficionados, City and State officials, consular representatives from various nations, and a cross section of guests from the Bay Area Filipino-American community. A formal reception will follow at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center where guests will be treated to Filipino gourmet food, and the traditional formal dance, Rigodon de Honor, which will be performed by community leaders and dignitaries. The second event is the annual KalayaanSF Festival which will be held on Saturday, June 16 starting from 12 noon up to 8PM at San Francisco’s union Square. The public is invited to this all-day event to experience the best of Filipino culture. As in previous KalayaanSF Festivals, thousands of revelers are expected to come and experience the event’s signature ‘street’ performances on all corners of the Square, where traditional and modern dances, martial arts, visual arts, and musical performances are delivered up close, and often interactively, with attendees. There will be a Marketplace Pavilion with vendors offering Philippine-themed and Philippine made merchandise, while various exhibitors, from corporate sponsors to non-
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)
profits will be present to reach out to the public. To complete a truly Filipino experience food booths offering authentic Filipino cuisine will be available for all to savor. Highlight of the whole day Festival is an early evening, free pop-concert produced by ABSCBn/TFC (the Filipino Channel) featuring Filipino-American platinum recording artist, Jay R, and the Philippines’ soul diva, Jaya. They will be performing at the union Square’s main stage. Kalayaan Hero awards Along with the festivities is a time to honor both known and un-heralded heroes in the community. each year, a small group of hand-picked community heroes are introduced to the public in a formal ceremony, allowing awardees and the community to know and interact with each other. KalayaanSF seeks to provide inspiration by honoring and presenting the accomplishments of these select individuals who have exemplified the highest ideals in the fields of sports, politics, arts, business, and community service. KalayaanSF Mission Conrad ‘Radi’ Calalang, chairman of KalayaanSF remarked, “As the largest Asian American
Oct 19, 2018 (Fri) Day 2 – 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 +&$%1 in Tiberias. Dinner and overnight (D). Beach Holy Eucharist Oct 20, 2018 (Sat) Day 3 – Tiberias/ Meggido/ Nazareth/ Cana/ Mt Tabor We will have short stop in Meggido and the Plains of We will have short stop in Meggido and the Plains of Armageddon, known in Hebrew as Meggido, a giant fortress and City built by King Solomon.
+ 1%" "4 "01 *"+1 ,,( ,# "3") 1&,+Çž &1 &0 /"#"//"! 0 1%" 0&1"0 ,# 1%" ČŠĆœ + ) 11)"Č‹Ç˝ /,* 1%"/"Çž 4" 4&)) ,+1&+2" ,2/ !/&3" &+1, Nazareth, where we will have Mass in the Church of the Annunciation ,the Cave of the Annunciation and and visit Joseph’s Work0%,- +! %"+ 4" 4&)) *,3" ,+ 1, + ,# )&)""Çž 4%"/" 2/ ,/! -"/#,/*"! &0 Ćœ /01 *&/ )"Çż % +$&+$ 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 $2/ 1&,+Ç˝ Ćž "/4 /!Çž 4" will head to Tiberias. Dinner and overnight in Tiberias. (B/D). Oct 21, 2018 (Sun) Day 4 – Tiberias/Mount Beatitude/ Multiplication / Primacy/ Capernum/Boat Ride “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heavenâ€? Early AM departures to Mt. Beatitude Drive up to Mount Beatitudes, visit the site of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus preached to the people., Eucharistic Celebration . "+',6 0 "+& , 1 /&!" /,00 1%" " ,# )&)"" 1, -"/+ 2*Çž %,*" ,# 2/ ,/! !2/&+$ %&0 *&+&01/6Ç˝ Ćž "/ 3&0&1&+$ 1%" 6+ $,$2" where he taught, proceed to Tabgha, the site of the miracle of the ), 3"0 +! Ćœ 0%"0Ç˝ %"+ 1, 1%" %2/ % /&* 6 ,# 1 "1"/0Ç˝ Č› Çž Čœ Oct 22, 2018 (Mon) Day 5 – Magdala 2)) ! 6 /"1/" 1Çž , 20 4&)) + )2!" -/,$/ *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 it’s the %,*" ,# /6 $! )"+"ǽȋ %" )&3"! %"/" +! 0%" *"1 "020 %"/" and she continued with Him. Yes, it’s that place The most important discovery in Magdala has been a synagogue dating back to the 1&*" ,# "020Ç˝ ,/!&+$ 1, / % ",),$&010Çž &1ȉ0 1%" Ćœ /01 ,+" !&0 ,3Č’ "/"! &+ 1%" )&)""Ç˝ Oct 23, 2018 (Tues) Day 6 – Jordan Valley/ Jericho/ Bethany/ Jerusalem Mass at the Church in Bethany Ćž "/ /" (# 01Çž 4" %" ! 1, "/& %,Çž 1%" ,)!"01 &+% &1"! &16 &+ 1%" 4,/)!Ç˝ &"4 1%" ,2+1 ,# "*-1 1&,+Çž 4%"/" "020 0-"+1 ǙǕ days fasting in the desert. We will visit the ancient ruins of the wall. We will continue to Bethany and will have mass to celebrate Holy 2 % /&01 1 1%" %2/ % ,# 1Ç˝ 7 /20Ç˝ %"+ 4" 4&)) 3&0&1 1%" -Č’ 1&0* ) 0&1" &+ &3"/ ,/! +Ç˝ -,+ //&3 ) &+ ,2+1 ,-20 *" +&+$ Mount of the Watchmen/Sentinels, is a mountain in northeast Je/20 )"*Ç˝ +',6 1%" Ćœ /01 3&"4 ,# "/20 )"*Ç˝ Ćž "/ 1%" ! 6ȉ0 1,2/Çž 4" will check in at our hotel in Jerusalem (B/D) Oct 24, 2018 (Wed) Day 7 – Jerusalem (Old City)/ Via Dolorosa/ Mount Zion Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher “And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place ,# 0(2))Çž 4%& % &0 ))"! &+ 1%" " /"4 ,)$,1% ǽȋ Č› ,%+ Ç–ÇžÇżÇ–ÇœČœ We will enter the Old City of Jerusalem and will follow the Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross) and say the Station of the Cross to the holiest shrine in Christendom, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, 3&0&1 ,)$,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%" *" ,# &+$0Čœ +! 1%" / % ,# 1%" ČŠ " ,*,Č‹Ç˝ Dinner/Overnight
Oct 25, 2018 (Thurs) Day 8 – Jerusalem Mass at the Holy Eucharist Church of St Peter in Gallicantu ČŠ %" ,/! " *" Ć? "0% +! !4")1 *,+$ 20ǽǽǽȋ 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%" ! 6ȉ0 1,2/Çž we will return to our hotel for dinner and overnight. Jerusalem (B, D) Oct 26, 2018 (Fri) Day 9 – 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 %&)!ǽȋ 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 țȊ ,! 4"-1Č‹Čœ 0 + 12 /6Ç˝ "51Çž 4"ȉ)) 4 )( 1%" )* 2+! 6 , ! 1, 1%" /!"+ ,# "1%0"* +"Çž +! 3&0&1 1%" , ( ,# $,+6 +! 1%" %2/ % ,# )) 1&,+0Ç˝ + 1%" Ćž "/+,,+Çž 4"ȉ)) !/&3" to Bethlehem, a city whose name is recognized around the world. Ćž "/ ")" / 1&+$ 00 1 1%" %2/ % ,# 1&3&16Çž 4" 4&)) 0"" 1%" +$"/Č€ 3&0&1 1%" %2/ % ,# 1Ç˝ 1%"/&+"Çž 1%" /,11, ,# 1Ç˝ "/,*" +! 1%" %"-%"/!0ȉ &")!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 – 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 Herod’s fortress and the Jew’s last 01/,+$%,)! $ &+01 1%" ,* +Ç˝ "12/+ 1, "/20 )"* #,/ !&++"/ and Overnight (B, D) Oct 28, 2018,(Sun) Day 11 – 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&)) $, 1, 1%" -1&0* ) &1" 1 "1% +6Çž 4%& % ,-" ,%+ 2)
3&0&1"! &+ Ç—Ç•Ç•Ç•Ç˝ %"+Çž &1ȉ0 ,+ 1, ,2+1 " ,Çž 4%"/" ,0"0 3&"4"! 1%" /,*&0"! +!Ç˝ 2/ +"51 01,- 4&)) " 1%" %2/ % ,# 1Ç˝ ",/$" &+ ! 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 – Aqaba/Petra Mass at Stella Maris Church – 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 – Aqaba/ Jerusalem We Cross the Jordanian Border to return to Jerusalem. Dinner/ Overnight Oct 31, 2018 (Wed) Day 14 – Jerusalem /Yad Vashem Museum/ TLV/ LAX Ćž "/ /" (# 01Çž 4" 4&)) 3&0&1 1%" ! 0%"* 20"2*Çž&0 0/ ")ȉ0 ,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? &$%1 ( 1, 1%" Ćž "/ !&++"/ 4&)) " 1/ +0#"//"! 1, 1%" &/-,/1 #,/ ǖǿǕǕ * )&$%1 ,3 ǖǞǗǕǖÇ? Č› %2/0! 6Čœ
where she received Best Actress nominations in the Film Academy of the Philippines, FAMAS Awards and enPReSS Golden Screen Awards. She also gained praise for her role in “A Love Story�. As a comedienne, Panganiban has been famous for her funny catchphrases and one-liners, earning her the nickname “hugot queen.� Some of her funniest lines appear in the book “Para Kay ex� by Beau Ang, for which she wrote the foreword. She’s currently one of the regulars of the gag show “Banana Split�. Panganiban received Best Actress honors from the 2014 Cinema One Originals Film Festival and the 13th Gawad Tanglaw Awards, for her role in “That Thing Called Tadhana�, which was also a major commercial and critical success. A sequel for the film has been hinted at by Panganiban and co-star JM de Guzman.
population in California, and one of the largest minority groups in the country, we’re very large in number but tend to keep a much lower profile relative to others. We’d like to help bring Filipino-Americans out in the forefront, not just to have them appreciated for their culture and achievements, but to inspire them
to continue making a positive impact on the community.� For more information on these and other KalayaanSF events in the month of June, or for inquiries on sponsorship, volunteer and vendor opportunities, please visit www.KalayaanSF.com, Facebook.com/KalayaanSF, or email info@KalayaanSF.com
Angelica Panganiban
Inquirer.net photo
Pilgrimage to Some of ITALY’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 – 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
ACTReSS Angelica Panganiban has been reminiscing about her past twenty-five years in the entertainment industry. Panganiban shared her thoughts through an Instagram post dated May 26. The photo she posted was taken at the Lakawon Island Resorts & Spa, Cadiz City, negros Occidental, during a shoot. She wrote on the caption, “Dalawampu’t limang taon na ko sa industriya. Akala mo, kapag ganun ka na katagal, madami ka ng natutunan. napundar. napatunayan. Pero, eto ako. Alam ko, eto pa lang ako. Masaya ko. Kahit eto pa lang ako. eto pinaniniwalaan ko. At sapat sakin to. Ayoko ng sobra. Dun ako sa sapat. Kaya masaya ako.(I’ve been in the industry for twenty-five years. You’d think, working that long, you’ve already learned a lot. Achieved a lot. Proved a lot. But here I am. I know this is still all I am. I’m happy. Even if I’ve only gone this far. I believe in this. And this is enough for me. I don’t want too much. I’m for what’s enough. That’s why I’m happy.)� She also shared a snapshot with friend John Pratts while they were at a resort in Bacolod City. Panganiban captioned the photo with, “My source of positivity.� Panganiban’s post did not hint on what project she is currently working on, but her Instagram Stories showed Pratts and Ryan Bang may be involved. Panganiban got her first regular show at the age of six when she joined the cast of the children’s variety show “Ang TV�. As she grew up, she took on more mature roles, such as her role in “Santa Santita�
Day 1 – 12 Nov 2018 – (Mon) Day 2 – 13Nov 2018 – (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 – 14 Nov 2018 (Wed) – 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 – 15 Nov 2018 (Thurs) – 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"/ȉ0 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"ȉ0 2+'201 ,+Č’ demnation.
Č› Çž Čœ Day 5 – 16 Nov 2018 (Fri)–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 ǖǞǖǛ 2+Č’ 1&) %&0 !" 1% ,+ Ǘǘ "-1"* "/Çž ǖǞǛÇ?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&+$Çž 0"" %&0 /,,*Çž %&0 ,+#"00&,+ ) ,5 +! 1%" /2 &Ćœ 5 that gave him his supernatural Crucifying stigmata, Cel" / 1" ,)6 2 % /&01 Č› ,1") / + / !&0, Čœ
+ &,3 ++& ,1,+!, (BB,D) Day 6 – 17 Nov 2018 (Sat) – SAN GIOVANNI ROTONDO This Morning we visit the new and Modern Basilica of St Padre Pio, See his uncorrupt body .Celebrate Holy Eucharist Spend some time meditating in this awesomeBasilica.
Č› ,1") / + / !&0,Čœ Day 7–18 Nov2018 – (Sun) – San Giovanni Rotondo / Lanciano /Loreto Ç˝ " //&3" 1 + & +,Çž # *,20 #,/ 1%" &/ )" ,# the Eucharist. Near the Piazza Plebiscito, the Miracle is inside the Sanctuary of the Eucharistic Miracle. The mira)" 1,,( -) " !2/&+$ 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˝ &+ " ǖǗǞǙ 1%" %,)6 %,*" % 0 ""+ ), 1"! &+0&!" 1%" 0&)& ,# ,/"1,Ç˝ ")" / 1" ,)6 2 % /&01 &+ + & +, DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN Assisi Day 8 –19 Nov 2018 – ( 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&,+ &+ ǖǗǕǛǿ ČŠ ,Çž / + &0Çž +! /" 2&)! *6 %,20"Çž 4%& % 0 6,2 0"" &0 # ))&+$ &+1, /2&+ǽȋ " 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,,( -) " &+ ǖǗǙǕǽ %" 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 – 20 Nov 2018 – (Tues) – 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%" ǖǘ1% "+12/6Çž &1 &0 1/" 02/" %"01 ,# 1%" "+ &0Č’ sance art and dedicated to St Catherine of Siena. You will learn about the city’s history while admiring it’s cathedrals, Museum, and libraries .Also you will admire the famous piazza del Campo, one of Europe’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,ȉ0 ")) ,4"/Çž 1%" -1&01"/6 ,# 1Ç˝ ,%+ the Baptist. "01 ,# 1%" ! 6 #/"" Č› Çž Čœ Day 10 – 21 Nov 2018 (Wed) – Florence / Rome " 3" ),/"+ " /,2+! Ç— //&3"! ,*" )*,01 !&++"/ time (BB.D) Day 11 – 22 Nov 2018 (Thurs) – Rome / USA End of our wonderful Pilgrimage .
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