NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
T H E F I L I P I N O A M E R I CA N C O M M U N I T Y N E WS PA P E R
Volume 17 - No. 29 • 3 Sections – 20 Pages
AUGUST 3-9, 2018
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DATELINE Trump reaffirms possible government shutdown, calling it ‘small price to pay’ for border security FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
PRESIDENT Donald Trump made clear on Tuesday, July 31, that he’s serious about shutting down the government if Congress fails to pass new immigration and border security measures like border wall funding. Trump sounded off the likelihood of a government shutdown at least twice since the weekend, starting with a tweet on Sunday, July 29, saying that he was “willing to ‘shut down’ government if Democrats do not give us the votes for Border Security, which includes the Wall!� He doubled down on the threat on Monday, July 30, during a joint news conference with PAGE A4
How the US-Mexico border wall affects the environment
US jury indicts Napoles, kin for domestic, int’l money laundering by AJPRESS A UNITED States federal grand jury this week charged Janet LimNapoles and five of her family members for allegedly transferring around $20 million U.S. dollars to purchase real-estate properties, luxury vehicles, and business shares. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California indicted Janet Lim-Napoles; her children
Jo Christine, 34, James Christopher, 33, and Jeane Catherine, 28; her brother Reynald Lim, 52, and his wife, Ana Lim, 47, according to a release on Tuesday, July 31. They were charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering, domestic money laundering and international money laundering from September 2012 to August 2014, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. “Approximately $20 million of
those funds were diverted to money remitters in the Philippines and then wired to Southern California bank accounts where the money was used to purchase real estate, shares in two businesses, two Porsche Boxsters, and finance the living expenses of three family members residing in the United States: Jeane Napoles, Reynald Lim, and Ana Lim,� the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California said
u PAGE A2
Janet Lim-Napoles
Philstar.com photo
PH enjoying economic rights gained from arbitration — Cayetano by PATRICIA LOURDES Philstar.com
VIRAY
EFFORTS on the proposal to continue construction along the U.S. and Mexico border has without a doubt negatively impacted thousands of lives, most notably the thousands of migrant families still hoping to be reunited after being separated at the border. But the international scientific community is adding that the wall also presents alarming consequences for the environment along the divide, which is home to thousands of vulnerable populations of plants and animals. A report published Tuesday, July 24 in the journal BioScience, determined that as many as 1,077 animal species and 429 plant species
MANILA — Amid criticisms from the previous administration, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano insisted that the Philippines is implementing the sovereign rights it has gained from the arbitration award on the South China Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano Sea. Philstar.com photo The Philippines’ top diplomat, however, admitted that the Philippines is “co-controlling� with China on the disputed waterway.
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Thousands from international science community warn of wall’s consequences
Also published in LOS ANGELES, LAS VEGAS, NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY
FOR A PROGRESSIVE PHILIPPINES. President Rodrigo Duterte delivers his speech during the Joint 68th National Security Council (NSC) and 69th National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) Founding Anniversary Celebration at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on Tuesday, July 31. Also in the photo are Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and former President Fidel Ramos. Duterte urged NSC and NICA to help his administration in ensuring a more progressive country for the next generation. “Together, let us continue to make great strides as we collectively bring our country towards a safer and brighter tomorrow,â€? he said. MalacaĂąang photo by Karl Norman Alonzo
EU, UN hail Duterte’s Bangsamoro Law P500 tourist fee may replace P1,620 travel tax by HELEN
AND
FLORES PIA LEE-BRAGO Philstar.com
THE European Union and the United Nations hailed President Duterte’s enactment of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) which, according to the EU, represents an opportunity for the Filipino people to embrace peace and stability after decades of conflict, and which the UN called a “landmark achievement on the road to lasting peace in southern Philippines.� European Commission for Neighborhood Policy and EnSenate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri and Majority Floor Leader Rodolfo Farinas Sr. largement Negotiations spokes(left) hands over to Bangsamoro Transition Committee Chairman and Moro Islamic Liberation person Maja Kocijancic said the Front (MILF) vice chairman Ghazali Jaafar (2nd left) the Conference Committee Report after signing of the BOL comes after 21 the marathon hearing of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) at the Senate in Pasay City on Wednesday, July 18. PNA photo by Avito Dalan PAGE A2
No Filipino affected so far by California wildfire – DFA THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is closely monitoring the fast-spreading wildfire in Northern California that has already destroyed hundreds of structures and forced thousands to evacuate. The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco is
also checking the situation of Filipinos in Redding and surrounding areas to determine if the socalled Carr Fire has affected any Filipino in the area. Consul General Henry Bensurto reported however that they have not received any request for PAGE A3
of P1,620 for economy class and P2,700 for first class. Paragas said he wants to reTHE Tourism Infrastructure and place the P1,620 with a P500 fee Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) that will go to the Tourist Developis eyeing to replace the P1,620 ment Fund (TDF). travel tax charged to Filipinos flyLast year, Paragas said TIEZA ing to other countries with a P500 was eyeing to create a TDF to be fee for all, including foreign tourists. “What we want to do right now is revisit that (travel tax) and make a tourist development fund specifically for departure,� TIEZA chief operating officer Pocholo Paragas said over the weekend. Under Presidential Decree 1183, passengers who are leaving the country irrespective of the place where the air ticket is issued and the form or place of payment are required to pay a travel tax !.$2%7 " 3(). by CATHERINE
TALAVERA Philstar.com
used for the improvement and development of infrastructure for tourists visiting the country. He added that charging P500 will also lessen the burden on Filipinos currently paying the P1,620 travel tax. PAGE A3
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AUGUST 3-9, 2018 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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From the Front Page
EU, UN hail Duterte’s Bangsamoro... PAGE A1 years of formal talks after the first ceasefire agreement between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). “It underlines both parties’ commitment to peace and their ability to tackle a variety of complex matters through a comprehensive and inclusive law,” she said. The regional group also hailed those involved in the negotiation and adoption of the law who have undertaken important work to bring stability and well-being to the people of Mindanao. Kocijancic said the EU remains a staunch supporter of the Mindanao Peace Process and is prepared to support the implementation of the BOL in the future, in view of long-lasting peace, development and prosperity in Mindanao and for the Filipinos. UN Secretary-General António Guterres congratulated negotiators of the Philippine government and the MILF, the
Bicameral Conference Committee, the Bangsamoro Transition Commission and civil society groups for their efforts. “The United Nations will continue to support the Philippines in the implementation of the law and to help build the capacity of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority as an effective conduit for peace, democratic governance and human rights,” the UN said in a statement. ‘Important step’ Japan also welcomed the enactment of the BOL for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono said “the enactment of this law is an important step toward the establishment of the new (Bangsamoro) autonomous government in Mindanao.” “Japan sincerely commends the efforts of the government of the Philippines, the MILF and all others concerned,” Kono said. Japan strongly hopes that the transition process toward the
inauguration of the Bangsamoro will be steadily implemented, including ratification of the organic law and establishment of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority. Japan has been supporting the peace process for many years under the conviction that peace in Mindanao will contribute to regional peace and stability, as declared in the Japan-Philippines Joint Statement on Bilateral Cooperation for the Next Five Years announced in October 2017. Kono said Japan would enhance its support for the development of Mindanao in a wide range of fields, in accordance with progress in the peace proBUDGET HEARING. Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno (second right), NEDA Director General Ernesto Pernia (second left), Bangko Sentral cess. The House of Representatives Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. (right), Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez (left), and Rep. Joey Salceda interact during the budget hearing in Congress on Tuesday, July 31. ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez approved the proposed BOL, which the administration and its authors said is the key to promoting lasting peace in Mindanao. The BOL will create a new Muslim regional entity and replace the current Autonomous PAGE A1 That time, the alleged masterJanet Napoles, 54, is known as Region in Muslim Mindanao. n in a press statement. the alleged mastermind behind the mind of the PDAF scam insisted The statement added that an infamous “pork barrel scam” — an that their wealth was from leaudit in September 2012 first dis- issue involving the allocation of the gitimate sources, and added that covered the fraud before Philippine Priority Development Assistance their family co-owned a hotel near press exposed it in July 2013. Fund (PDAF). Disneyland in Los Angeles. “Napoles and her family memShe is currently detained at the Napoles’ daughter that time also bers attempted to quietly liquidate Camp Bagong Diwa detention owned a unit at the Ritz Carlton the assets in the United States, center in Taguig City and is on trial Residences in Los Angeles, with secretly repatriate most of the for five counts of plunder, graft, and an estimated value of $800,000 to resulting funds back to the Philip- other cases before the Sandigan- $9.3 million. pines and to other accounts in the bayan anti-graft court. Due to an extradition treaty U.S. and United Kingdom, and Five Philippine lawmakers alleg- signed in 1994, the accused might disburse some of the funds to Jeane edly benefitted from the scheme; be tried in a U.S. court. United Napoles, who used the money to three of whom are former Senators States Attorney Nick Hanna said finance her lifestyle and open a Juan Ponce Enrile, Bong Revilla they will work with the Philippine fashion business,” the U.S. Depart- and Jinggoy Estrada. Their cases government to extradite the defenment of Justice wrote. involved the misuse of funds by dants to the U.S. Federal prosecutors claim that transmitting them to non-existent “The efforts of the Philippine and the funds in question were ob- projects of bogus institutions and American investigators demontained through intricate bribery NGOs. strate that there are consequences and fraud scheme, resulting in the Luxurious properties, lavish to abusing the public trust and we implication of the defendants with lifestyle captured on social me- hope to deter such conduct in the domestic and international bribery dia future. To do this, we will work as well as conspiracy. In a report by ABS-CBN News, with our Philippine counterparts Court documents show that ap- social media posts of Janet Na- to secure the extradition of the proximately $12.5 million in South- poles’ daughter Jeane, spurred defendants to the United States,” ern California real estate has been an investigation by the Philippine Hanna said in a statement. seized by the U.S. Attorney’s Office Bureau of Investigation (BIR). PhoIn a separate report by Inquirer and is subject to a civil forfeiture tos from Jeane’s Instagram were on Wednesday, August 1, Philipcase pending before United States published by ABS-CBN in 2013, pine Department of Justice (DOJ) District Judge James V. Selna. which included a Porsche Cayenne Secretary Menardo Guevarra said The Federal Bureau of Investiga- and Porsche Boxster, a total cost of that the government is prepared to tion (FBI) is currently handling the over P4 million. extradite the Napoles family. case, while Assistant U.S. Attorney Apart from the cars, Jeane also “We have been collaborating Daniel O’Brien, Deputy Chief of the posted photos of herself with with the U.S. Department of JusPublic Corruption and Civil Rights luxury items such as watches, tice on these money laundering Section is prosecuting the case. purses, clothing, shoes and charges against Napoles,” GueThe information regarding the jewelry. Around that same time, varra said. name of the defense counsel and/or videos of her 21st lavish birthday He added, “We welcome this whether the Napoles family has any party at the Beverly Hills Hotel development as it paves the way for is yet to be disclosed. surfaced. The Napoles’ then- the return of the people’s money to The money transmitted to the lawyer Lorna Kapunan defended our national treasury.” U.S. over the two-year period is that the family was rich because However, Guevarra explained believed to be Philippine govern- of their businesses abroad. Ac- that the Philippines cannot exment funds originally intended to cording to Kapunan, the party tradite Napoles to the U.S. until benefit poor Filipino people. was a reward for Jeane for fin- her case in her home country is If the court deems the assets ille- ishing her course with honors at resolved. gally obtained, the U.S. Justice De- the prestigious Fashion Institute He also added that only the relapartment will work with Philippine of Design and Merchandise, a tives of Napoles who were not facofficials to have the funds returned school that carried a $30,000 ing charges in the Philippines may to the PH government. annual tuition. be extradited to the U.S. n
US jury indicts Napoles...
PH enjoying economic rights gained from... PAGE A1 “I can argue that we’re now under co-control or at least cocoordination with China and three out of four of our sovereign rights in the arbitration award are implemented now,” Cayetano told reporters on Tuesday, July 31. Hitting back at critics who have been suggesting to pursue the Aquino administration’s policy toward Beijing, Cayetano insisted that their strategy did not produce results. The Philippines, under Aquino leadership, pursued the arbitration against China, which later on resulted to a victory for the country. The arbitral tribunal ruled that Beijing violated its commitment under the United Nations Convention on the Law
of the Sea when it constructed artificial islands within Manila’s exclusive economic zone. “What did the award say? Awards says first: fisheries. Before, we were not able to fish bit now we can already fish. There’s a tentative fishing agreement,” the secretary said. The Foreign Affairs chief also noted that the Filipinos are now guaranteed safety of life at sea when there are storms as there are arrangements on the matter. The Philippines also has tentative agreements with different parties for environmental protection, according to Cayetano. “Last is oil and gas which we are, as I said, working on. We’re looking for a framework,” Cayetano said, referring to a possible joint exploration with China in
the South China Sea. “Joint development is one mechanism of cooperation by countries in areas in dispute and we will not be the first country to do it,” he added. Former President Benigno Aquino III had called on President Rodrigo Duterte to be more transparent to the public on negotiations with China, particularly on the disputed South China Sea. The former president asked when binding rules based on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea can be released. “We request that perhaps they can bare their negotiations, be more transparent with their dealings so that the public would have no concern for worry,” Aquino said over the weekend. n
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No new airline terminal assignments by Dexter
Cabalza Inquirer.net
THERE will be no transfer of airline companies to different terminals of ninoy Aquino international Airport (nAiA) for now. in a statement on Monday, July 30, the Manila international Airport Authority (MiAA) said the
reshuffling of some airline companies’ terminal assignments on Aug. 31 “would not proceed as originally envisioned.” According to the MiAA, it has deferred the implementation of the Terminal Regularization Program through a letter dated June 5 addressed to Catanduanes Rep. Cesar Sarmiento, chair of the House committee on trans-
portation. Under the program, naia Terminals 1 and 3 would be reserved for international flights while Terminals 2 and 4 would be used solely for domestic flights. The MiAA said that discussions with some airline operators “gave rise to unforeseen operational constrains that require [more] time to resolve.” n
SAP COCO LEVY BILL. Sen. Cynthia Villar, chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture and Food, said the approval by the bicameral conference committee of the reconciled version of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Act, “marks the end of the long and grueling journey of enacting a law which will make sure 3.5 million coconut farmers will greatly benefit from the P100-billion funds which are rightfully theirs.” In photo are members of the bicam panel (standing) Rep. Cecilia Chavez, Sen.Francis Pangilinan, Rep. Celso Lobregat, Rep. Arthur Yap, Rep. Edcel Lagman, Rep. Manuel Sagarbarria; (seated) Rep. Evelina Escudero, Villar, Rep. Jose Panganiban Jr., and Rep. Sharon Garin. Also in photo are Department of Agriculture officials. Senate photo
Staying away from nanny and caregiving job scams Finding a new job can be a challenge. Websites can help you find work, but scammers also use these sites to find people to rip off. do you look for work on caregiver/nanny job sites? Sometimes scammers will offer a job but say you need to buy supplies or other equipment. They pressure you to act quickly, before you have time to think. They Travelers at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1. Inquirer.net photo send you a check and tell you to deposit it and transfer money to their vendor to buy the supplies. don’t do it — scammers post fake job listings for nannies and carePAGE A1 ture arm of the department of givers, then make up elaborate give TiEZA more funds. While a law is required to esUnder the current travel tax law, Tourism, is mandated to develop, stories to get your money. The tablish the TdF, Paragas said he TiEZA is in charge of collecting the manage and supervise tourism in- positions seem real, but they’re would prefer an executive order fees, but only receives 50 percent frastructure projects in the coun- not — it’s a scam. The check will bounce. So, the money you sent first to push for this concept. of the collection, while CHEd gets try. n “What we wanted to do, prior 40 percent and nCCA receives 10 to law is if there is an EO that can percent. help us set up this frame of mind, Paragas said CHEd gets a big it will work,” Paragas said. budget annually but did not elaboin december, Paragas said he rate on nCCA’s case. already submitted a copy of a draft Asked how soon the TdF could bill for the creation of the fund to be established, Paragas said the President duterte. pending passage of Tax Reform Paragas said they are still updat- for Acceleration and inclusion ing the draft and coordinating with Package 2 is hindering the agency international partners. from doing so since it involves a lot “We’ve been dealing with the of sectors in terms of incentives. international segment, the inter“i really want to push for it, but national airlines, (other) countries; what is derailing us is the TRAin we’re trying to coordinate with 2,” Paragas said. them to finalize the best fit for the Under TRAin 2, at least 120 Philippines,” he said. special laws on investment incenMeanwhile, Paragas said under tives will be amended or repealed the proposed TdF, he is request- while lower corporate income tax ing that the allocation for the rates will be imposed. Commission on Higher Education Paragas earlier said he targets to (CHEd) and the national Commis- establish the TdF by the end of the sion for Culture and Arts (nCCA) duterte administration in 2022. from the travel tax be scrapped to The TiEZA, tourism infrastruc-
P500 tourist fee may replace P1,620...
No Filipino affected so far... PAGE A1 assistance so far from any Filipino in Redding and areas nearby. Bensurto said there are about 227 Filipinos in the city of Redding, which is being threatened by the fire that has already burned more than 344 square kilometers or 85,000 acres and destroyed 500 structures. The fire has forced the evacuation of some 38,000 people in neighborhoods on the west side of Redding, Bensurto added. initially, five persons have
been reported injured and 12 others have been listed missing. But latest reports indicated that death toll from the wildfires is now at five, including two firemen, a great-grandmother, and two children. The Consulate general has assured that it continues to monitor developments and is in touch with authorities for updates on the Carr Fire, especially on notifications about foreign nationals affected by the blaze. (Darryl John Esguerra/Inquirer.net)
is actually your own — and it’s gone. Some scammers may pressure you to send money via gift card or cash reload card. Anyone that asks you to pay with such a card is scamming you. if you’re looking for work on a caregiving site: • don’t send money to someone who says they want to hire you. don’t deposit a check and wire money back. don’t send them a gift card or cash reload card. • Search online for a potential client’s name, email address, and phone number. You might find complaints by others who’ve been scammed and find out more about the scammer’s tricks.
• if you sent money to a scammer posing as an employer, contact the company you used to send the money (bank, wire transfer service, gift card company, or cash reload card company) and tell them it was a fraudulent transaction. Ask to have the transaction reversed if possible. • if you sent money to a scammer posing as an employer, contact the company you used to send the money (bank, wire transfer service, gift card company, or cash reload card company) and tell them it was a fraudulent transaction. Ask to have the transaction reversed if possible. (By Carol Kando-Pineda, Attorney, Division of Consumer and Business Education, FTC)
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AUGUST 3-9, 2018 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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From business journalist to social entrepreneur MAD Travel co-founder Tom Graham shares journey towards social tourism platform
by Rae
ann VaRona AJPress
WHETHER it’s family, friends, pristine beaches, food, shopping, or business — people find themselves in the Philippines for a number of reasons. For former business journalist Thomas Graham, his journey to the Philippines came by way of an assignment — to report on business and investment prospects in the country. But what the British journalist instead took away were stories that would eventually lead him on a path of social entrepreneurship, co-founding social travel platform Make A Difference (MAD) Travels whose early travelers include the CEO of Microsoft. On the seventh floor office of the Philippine Department of Tourism in Los Angeles on Thursday, July 27, Graham explained to tourism heads of different countries and travel entrepreneurs, of his journey from business journalist to social entrepreneur and the lessons he picked up along
linga founder Tony Meloto whom he decided to interview. Gawad Kalinga (meaning “to give care” in Tagalog) is a Philippine-based non-profit that focuses on poverty alleviation through efforts like community building. Who better to give a different perspective on Philippine potential than Meloto, Graham thought. After a three-hour interview that went way beyond the planned time of 30 minutes, Graham said he was challenged by Meloto to “ditch the shirt and tie” he was wearing, and “go out and discover the genius of the Filipino poor.” MAD Travel co-founder Thomas Graham Graham soon after decided to AJPress photo by Rae Ann Varona quit his job, exchange his 34th floor condo in one of the Philipthe way. “I didn’t really believe in what pines’ most upscale neighborI was writing because it was very hoods, and embark on a year obvious to me the level of poverty journey living and experiencing and inequality I found in the Phil- the country through the perspecippines,” said Graham, of his ini- tive of local communities. ‘Genius of the poor’ tial report findings in the country. On his journey through over 100 “I wanted to tell a different story — a story that would really communities, Graham recalled give me hope,” he added before meeting numerous inspiring inpointing to a photo of Gawad KaPAGE A5
CONSULTATIVE MEETING. Senator Nancy Binay is joined by Department of Tourism Region VII Director Shalimar Tamano in a consultative meeting with tourism stakeholders on the state of Panglao island. Binay reiterated her position that there is a need to know the carrying capacity of an island to avoid a repeat of what happened in Boracay. Senate photo
Calif. firefighters endorse Prop. 8, say it will improve dialysis patient care, protect taxpayers Clinics’ inadequate staffing, patient care strains 911 system
LOS ANGELES – California’s largest union of firefighters endorsed a statewide ballot initiative, contending it will improve patient care for people with kidney failure, decrease pressure on the 911 emergency response system and spare taxpayers from picking up the tab for dialysis clinics that fail to invest in adequate staffing. Prop. 8, the Fair Pricing for Dialysis Act, will appear on the Nov. 6 ballot and is supported by the California Democratic Party, the California Public Employees’ Retirement System, veterans,
patients, healthcare advocates and more than 130 community organizations, labor unions and churches. “Taxpayers and our 911 emergency system are being stressed by dialysis providers that refuse to invest in safe staffing levels and patient care practices,” said Brian K. Rice, president of the California Professional Firefighters, representing more than 30,000 firefighters in the state. “Prop. 8 will correct that problem, protect patient safety and ensure taxpayers aren’t on the hook subsidizing operators that put profits ahead of
patient care and public safety.” According to the Los Angeles County Fire Department, just 20 dialysis clinics in their jurisdiction placed 2,457 emergency calls over a five-year period, with the volume increasing from an average of 20 calls per clinic in 2012 to 31 calls per facility in 2016 – and that’s a fraction of the 169 clinics in the county. Dialysis employees have reported that chronic understaffing is a contributing factor to patient emergencies and use of 911, as workers are overwhelmed on a PAGE A5
Trump reaffirms possible government...
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PAGE A1 Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, saying, “If we don’t get border security after many, many years of talk within the United States, I would have no problem doing a shutdown.” He added that the U.S. was the “laughing stock of the world,” and had the “worst immigration laws anywhere in the world.” While the initial shutdown remarks did alarm some Republican lawmakers, others also seemed confident that Trump wouldn’t shut the government down as the political risk seemed too great in light of the upcoming midterm elections. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told the Washington Post on Monday, July 30 that he was sure Congress would be able to avoid a shutdown. But Trump said Tuesday afternoon that he didn’t care about the political consequences. He tweeted, “I don’t care what the political ramifications are, our immigration laws and border security have been a complete and total disaster for decades, and there is no way that the Democrats will allow it to be fixed without a Government Shutdown.” “Border security is National Security, and National Security is the long-term viability of our Country,” Trump added in a following tweet. “A Government Shutdown is a very small price to pay for a safe and Prosperous America!” The latest shutdown threat followed a tweet he posted that referenced a Mexican National Institute of Statistics and Geography report showing an increased homicide count in Mexico for the year 2017. Bad timing, say Republicans
Trump’s shutdown threats came several days after GOP lawmakers were said to have come up with a plan to avoid a government shutdown before the November midterm elections. Trump has threatened a government shutdown over border wall funding before — in February, he said that he would “love to see a shut down if we can’t get this stuff taken care off” — but the timing of the recent comments is what lawmakers, including Republican, are most worried about. If a government shutdown were to occur, it would happen in September — close to elections where Republicans are hoping to keep a stronghold in Congress. At a meeting with Trump last Wednesday, July 25, McConnell and House Speaker Paul Ryan reached an agreement with the president that funding for the wall would not have to be reached by the end of the current financing period. McConnell also reportedly warned Trump that pursuing a fight over border wall funding could hinder Trump’s nominee Brett Kavanaugh from taking the vacant Supreme Court seat. On Tuesday, McConnell and other Senate GOP lawmakers said that they are still following their plan to approve 9 of the 12 spending bills by the end of August. “We’re trying to go through a normal appropriations process that prevents a big event at the end of the fiscal year, which has become all too common around here,” said McConnell, as quoted by the Washington Post. “Hopefully we don’t get to that position at the end of the fiscal year,” he added. Responding to Trump’s earlier shutdown threats, the New York Times quoted Republican Rep.
Tom Cole saying: “We’re going to have a challenging midterm anyways, and I don’t see how putting the attention on shutting down the government when you control the government is going to help you.” On CBS’ “Face the Nation,” Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., who serves as chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, similarly said he didn’t think the shutdown would be helpful, “so let’s try and avoid it.” Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., told NPR’s “Morning Edition” that the shutdown issue puts Republicans “in a bad position.” He dismissed Trump’s blame on Democrats and said that because Republicans hold majority in both the House and the Senate, they could pass funding for the wall if they wanted. “Many Republicans don’t want to spend $25 billion to $40 billion on a wall when they don’t have enough money for medical research, for cancer research, for rebuilding some of our water supplies in the United States,” said Leahy. Trump has yet to receive the full $25 billion he requested, but House Republicans last month in July released a spending bill that puts $5 billion towards Trump’s wall next year. Asked on Monday whether the $25 billion was a red line, Trump said he didn’t have a red line, and “always leaves room for negotiation.” “I just want great border security,” said Trump. A government shutdown usually happens when Congress is unable to pass a budget. The deadline for the next budget is September 30. (Rae Ann Varona /AJPress)
How the US-Mexico border wall affects... PAGE A1 — 66 from both groups of which are critically endangered — would be affected by the construction of new borders. Outlining the environmental harms seen over the past decade as a result of construction along the roughly 2,000-mile U.S.-Mexico border, the report further warns of the Trump administration’s plan to complete a continuous border wall by describing it as a threat to “some of the continent’s most biologically diverse regions.” “Fences and walls erected along international boundaries in the name of national security have unintended but significant consequences for biodiversity,” wrote the scientists. Co-signing the report are over 2,700 scientists (and growing) from all over the world, including from the Philippines. Over 700 additional signatures come from general supporters. Among the report’s authors are prominent biologists Paul Ehrlich and E.O. Wilson. Nature divided The authors stated that physical barriers fragment habitats and degrade landscape connectivity for animals, thus preventing them from getting access to food, water, and mates among other needs. The endangered Peninsular bighorn sheep, for example, relies on trekking between California and Mexico for water and birthing sites. For the also endangered Mexi-
can gray wolf and Sonoran pronghorn, building a wall would make it nearly impossible for them to reestablish recently declining populations. “Fragmented populations may suffer from reduced genetic diversity and face greater extinction risks,” wrote the authors. The report also cited the Real ID Act which was passed by U.S. Congress in 2005, ultimately allowing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) authority to waive any laws that get in the way of the wall’s construction. These include the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). “With these laws sidelined, wall construction proceeds without the necessary depth of environmental monitoring, mitigation, public input, and pursuit of legal remedies,” reads the report. The DHS has already issued eight waivers in all four border states of California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas since 2005. Three of the waivers were from the Trump administration in 2017 for construction in California and New Mexico. The researchers also argued that the border wall and efforts towards its completion devalue conservation investment and scientific research. “The U.S. and Mexican governments, tribes, nongovernmental organizations, and private landowners have set aside many millions of acres of protected land
and invested millions of dollars in conservation, often bi-nationally coordinated,” wrote the authors. Around 4.5 million hectares of U.S. and Mexican protected areas within 80 kilometers of borderlines are overseen for biodiversity conservation. Another 2.6 million hectares are managed for sustainable multiuse. Of the total borderland area, 18 percent are protected lands. The authors added that U.S. and Mexican scientists have also shared “distressing stories of being intimidated, harassed, and delayed by border security officers.” Rob Peters, the lead author of the study and a biologist at Defenders of Wildlife, told Earther that the sheer number of support from the international science community shows how dire the consequences of border construction are. “Given that scientists by nature and training are often hesitant about weighing in on public issues, that so many signed is strong validation of how disastrous the wall would be,” Peters told Earther. In the report, authors urged the U.S. government to recognize and prioritize the conservation of the “ecological, economic, political, and cultural value of the U.SMexico borderlands.” “National security can and must be pursued with an approach that preserves our natural heritage,” wrote the authors. (Rae Ann Varona/AJPress)
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DATELINE USA
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 3-9, 2018
For many college students, hunger can ‘Make It Hard To Focus In Class’ by MICHELLE
ANDREWS Kaiser Health News
AS students enter college this fall, many will hunger for more than knowledge. Up to half of college students report that they were either not getting enough to eat or were worried about it, according to published studies. “Food insecurity,” as it’s called, is most prevalent at community colleges, but it’s common at public and private four-year schools as well. Student activists and advocates in the education community have drawn attention to the problem in recent years, and the food pantries that have sprung up at hundreds of schools are perhaps the most visible sign. Some schools are also using the Swipe Out Hunger program, which allows students to donate their unused meal plan vouchers, or swipes, to other students to use at campus dining halls or food pantries. Rachel Sumekh, who founded the program with friends at UCLA several years ago, said they wanted to do something useful with the unused credits from the meal plans they were required to buy. The program now counts 48 schools as participants, and Sumekh said in the past year they’ve seen a “dramatic” increase in the number of colleges that are reaching out to them about getting involved. The University of CaliforniaBerkeley is part of Swipes, as the program is known. It’s one element in a multipronged effort that targets students who may need extra support to meet their basic housing, food and other needs, said Ruben Canedo, a university employee who chairs the campus’s basic needs committee. (He also co-chairs a similar committee for all 10 UC campuses.) Those “free dining passes have
given me chances to eat when I thought I wouldn’t be able to,” one student wrote to the Swipes program. “I used to go hungry and that would make it hard to focus in class or study. [The passes] really helped my studying and may have helped me get my GPA up.” Pantries and food passes are good band-aids, but more system-wide solutions are needed, advocates say. “If I’m sending my kid to college, I want more than a food pantry,” said Sara Goldrick-Rab, professor of higher education policy and sociology at Temple University in Philadelphia, who founded the Hope Center for College, Community and Justice. “I want to know that they’re addressing high food prices on campus and taking steps to ensure no student goes hungry.” Part of the disconnect may stem from a misperception about what today’s students are really like, said Katharine Broton, an assistant professor in educational policy and leadership studies at the University of Iowa who has published research on food and housing insecurity in colleges. Many of them don’t fit the profile of a “typical” student who attends a four-year institution full time and doesn’t have a job, Broton said. Rather, about 40 percent of students today are working in addition to going to school, and nearly 1 in 4 are parents. The juggling act can be hard to maintain. “Most of the students, we find, are working and receiving financial aid, but still struggling with food insecurity,” Broton said. Adding to the stress is the fact that while tuition and fees continue to rise, financial aid hasn’t kept pace. In the 2017-18 school year, after accounting for grant aid and tax benefits, full-time stu-
dents at two-year colleges had to cover $8,070 in room and board on average, while those at fouryear public institutions faced an average $14,940 in room, board, tuition and fees. Anti-hunger advocates credit students with both sounding the alarm about hunger on campus and in some cases offering ingenious solutions. Canedo said a key focus this fall will be to enroll eligible students in CalFresh, the California version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. Under federal rules, students generally must work at least 20 hours a week to qualify for SNAP, something many cannot manage. But states have flexibility to designate what counts as employment and training programs, said Elizabeth Lower-Basch, director of income and work supports at CLASP, an anti-poverty advocacy organization. In California, for example, students who participate in certain educational programs at school are eligible for CalFresh. “That’s our first line of defense,” Canedo said. “Students are being awarded about $192 per month.” For students who don’t qualify for CalFresh, the school sponsors a parallel food assistance program that also provides benefits. There’s a food pantry that offers regular cooking demonstrations. But what Canedo said he’s particularly proud of is a 15-week nutritional science course that students can take that teaches them about healthy eating, prepping food, budgeting and grocery shopping, among other things. Some of those skills can help students learn to manage their money and food to get them through their time at school without running short.
Calif. firefighters endorse Prop. 8, say it will... PAGE A4 daily basis, which makes it difficult to deliver proper patient care or infection control. Prop. 8 improves care for dialysis patients by limiting dialysis corporations’ revenues to 15 percent above the amount they spend on patient care and pushes them to invest in hiring more staff, buying new medical equipment, and
improving facilities. According to the U.S. Renal Data System, 66,000 Californians with life-threatening kidney failure get treatment in dialysis clinics. The two largest companies, DaVita and Fresenius, made $3.9 billion in profits from their U.S. dialysis operations in 2016 – with a clinic profit margin nearly five times higher than an average hos-
pital in California – while patient care suffered. Dialysis patients and caregivers report sanitation problems, including bloodstains and cockroaches in clinics. People with kidney failure often must undergo dialysis treatment three days a week at clinics to remove their blood, clean it, and put it back in their bodies. Each treatment lasts three to four hours. ■
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From business journalist to...
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dividuals looking to make change in the Philippines. These people, he shared, introduced him to the Filipino values of walang iwanan (meaning “no one gets left behind”), and bayanihan, which describes the spirit of active collaboration. Both values are what are behind the mission of Gawad Kalinga. There was the young French foreigner who after graduating from one of France’s top business schools, turned to chicken farming in the Gawad Kalinga Enchanted Farms, which Graham described as the “Silicon Valley of social entrepreneurship” in the country. There was also the young Filipino in the same farm, who now makes a living making iced tea from local ingredients despite having before lived under a bridge. Being a writer, Graham somewhat instinctively decided to chronicle his experiences and all of the people he met and put them in a book titled, “The Genius of the Poor: An Englishman’s Life Changing Journey in the Philippines.” He described the book as the “first stage” in his personal transformative experience because as he later found out, he didn’t feel like the book had done enough. Moving back to London, Graham found himself missing the Philippines and after a couple of beers one night, a friend attempted to console Graham by offering to double his donations to Oxfam. “It was a very sincere offer, but at that moment I realized I don’t just want my friends to double their subscriptions to a charity — to just give money. I wanted them to come and experience the Philippines and its communities and that spirit of bayanihan and walang iwanan for themselves,” said Graham. Hence came the idea for Make
A Difference (MAD) Travel. Making a difference through travel Launched in 2015, MAD Travel is a social tourism platform that looks to provide travelers with meaningful experiences while supporting marginalized communities in the Philippines. Thirty-percent of total tour profits go towards its partner communities like those of Gawad Kalinga and the Gawad Kalinga Enchanted Farms. Touching on the growing appeal of experience-based travel found especially among millennials, Graham said MAD Travel hopes to take travel beyond being just sustainable. “Everybody wants to be sustainable nowadays. But a lot of it seems to be around limiting the harm that we do,” said Graham. He added that being responsible just isn’t enough, especially in the Philippines where many communities remain vulnerable to not only inequality, but challenges like climate change. He gave the example of the need for reforestation, specifically in the Central Luzon province of Zambales which experienced devastation after the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo. It’s also one of the destinations of MAD Travels. The Philippines overall, he said, was over 90 percent forest some hundred years ago. Today, it’s less than ten percent. “We need to somehow transform this environment. Use tourism as an accelerator to basically replant an entire 3,000 hectare rainforest,” said Graham, adding that reforestation would mean planting about three million trees. In Yangil, San Felipe, Zambales, MAD Travel with its partnerships and travelers was able to start a small nursery in 2016. By 2017, they started to see growth in planted trees. Today, the nursery works closely with NGOs and
AJPress photos by Rae Ann Varona
other organizations, has a water pump, basic solar energy, and thriving tree yields. Aside from tree planting, travelers to Yangil learn about the culture of the indigenous Aetas through dance, food, music, archery, and herbal medicine. They also get to know the community through its people like Chief Erese, the tribal chieftain; Ate Vilma who is often the first to greet travelers; and Lolo Doyong who enjoys sitting outside the learning center with his native self-made bow and arrows. Other MAD Travels destinations include the GK Enchanted Farm in Bulacan, Metro Manila, and Maribojoc in Bohol. But all travels are customizable to fit travelers’ personal schedules. Since its launch, MAD Travel has served over 2,500 and counting travelers from both the Philippines and abroad. Its impact has meant putting over 30,000 plants back into the ground since 2016, having two indigenous partner communities from two different provinces, and an investment of roughly PHP 900,000 in community training and infrastructure development, among others. “All of this happened because tourism was the initial driver,” said Graham. “It got people in the community.” ■
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AUGUST 3-9, 2018 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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Dateline PhiliPPines Palace to lawmakers: No harm in sponsoring TRAIN 2 by Natalie
Robles
AJPress
PRESIDENTIAL spokesperson Harry Roque on Monday, July 30, told lawmakers that the second version of Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) will not impose new taxes. “TRAIN 2 is different so there is no need to be afraid,” Roque said. Roque said that senators running this upcoming election might not want to be linked in another tax law so as not to earn the public’s ire. He also explained that the reform law will only affect corporate taxes. “This tax bill is different because it does not impose new taxes. It will lower the corporate tax so we won’t have the highest corporate tax in Asia,” he added.
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque Inquirer.net photo
Roque also emphasized the importance of informing the public about the primary objectives of the tax law. “It’s correcting their misconception that we are levying new taxes. We are not, we are making it easier for corporations to operate.” Roque stated. TRAIN 2 provides a 5 percent
decrease in corporate taxes from the current 30 percent down to 25 percent. “We are reducing the tax burden on corporate tax filers,” Roque added. In a report from the Philippine Star, the Department of Finance said that TRAIN 2 will help more than 95 percent of the corporations in the country. Such corporations are said to be paying the highest corporate income tax in the region. TRAIN 2 aims to include new incentives for current businesses to further expand and later on adopt a new form of technology. It also strives to rationalize the incentives given to investors. Roque said that the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office must work with the lawmakers in PAGE A9
New Ombudsman vows speedy justice by JomaR
caNlas Manilatimes
SPEAKER Gloria Arroyo hosted a thanksgiving lunch with Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, daughter of President Rodrigo Duterte, and administration lawmakers on Monday, July 30, a week after their successful bid to capture control of the House of Representatives. Arroyo said her meeting with the Davao mayor was “very nice
and pleasant.” Deputy Speaker Fredenil Castro of Capiz, who was one of the 184 lawmakers who voted for Arroyo as speaker to replace Pantaleon Alvarez last week, revealed that Mayor Duterte was a guest of the speaker in a luncheon held at a Quezon City hotel. “She (Mayor Duterte) was invited by the speaker but she did not speak. She did not make pronouncements,” Castro told The Manila Times.
“There was luncheon of members of the House with Speaker Arroyo. Nothing was discussed other than expressing her appreciation for all those who supported her and urging everybody to start working on matters pending with the House, and there was also an announcement that we might able to elect certain officers of the House,” Castro added. The president’s daughter admires Arroyo and does not see PAGE A9
BEDLAM. Thousands of students, some accompanied by their parents, packed the registrar’s office of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City on Monday, July 30 to submit their application for the university’s College Admission Test. ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez
House Speaker Arroyo meets Davao City Mayor Duterte ‘Rainbow coalition’ celebrates a week after capturing the House by llaNesca
t. PaNti
Manilatimes
SPEAKER Gloria Arroyo hosted a thanksgiving lunch with Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, daughter of President Rodrigo Duterte, and administration lawmakers on Monday, July 30, a
Former president and now House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (right) meets Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte (left) during lunch with members of the House of Representatives at Seda Hotel in Quezon City on Monday, July 30. Photo from the Office of the House of Representatives
week after their successful bid to capture control of the House of Representatives. Arroyo said her meeting with the Davao mayor was “very nice and pleasant.” Deputy Speaker Fredenil Castro of Capiz, who was one of the 184 lawmakers who voted for Arroyo as speaker to replace Pantaleon Alvarez last week, revealed that Mayor Duterte was a guest of the speaker in a luncheon held at a Quezon City hotel. “She (Mayor Duterte) was invited by the speaker but she did not speak. She did not make pronouncements,” Castro told The Manila Times. “There was luncheon of members of the House with Speaker Arroyo. Nothing was discussed other than expressing her appreciation for all those who supported her and urging everybody to start working on matters pending with the House, and there was also an announcement that we might able to elect certain officers of the House,” Castro added.
The president’s daughter admires Arroyo and does not see eye to eye with Alvarez. Alvarez had accused Mayor Duterte of turning opposition for forming her own regional party, Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP) or Alliance for Change. She then accused Alvarez of betraying her father by bragging to people that as the speaker, he could unseat the president through impeachment. Alvarez denied making such statements. Mayor Duterte was said to have played a key role in Arroyo’s rise as speaker, with sources saying the president’s daughter burned the lines to marshal support for the former president. Subsequently, The Times ran a story, citing House sources, of PDP-Laban members mulling jumping ship to the Davao City mayor’s HNP. Castro, however, maintained that the presence of the mayor during the lunch meeting was not a discussion about people jumping ship or political parties PAGE A9
Carmen Nakpil, renowned writer, historian, dies at 96
Carmen “Chitang” Guerrero Nakpil died at 1:30 a.m., according to her daughter Gemma CruzAraneta. Photo from Facebook/National Historical Commission of the Philippines
MANILA — Celebrated historian and writer Carmen “Chitang” Guerrero Nakpil has passed away early Monday, July 30. She was 96. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines broke the news of Nakpil’s death on its Facebook page. Nakpil died at 1:30 a.m., according to her daughter beauty queen Gemma Cruz-Araneta. Nakpil was the chairman of the NHCP from 1967 to 1971. “Her works in Philippine history and culture, and her contributions to the development of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, will live on and serve as a guide for succeeding generations of Filipinos,” NCHP said. She also chaired the Cultural Committee of the Philippine Commission for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization from 1967 to 1980 and was elected to the executive board of UNESCO Paris in 1982. She was a founding member of
Writer’s Union of the Philippines, member of the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women and International Association of Historians of Asia. Nakpil, moreover, received the Rizal Pro Patria Medal for Journalism and several of National Press Club’s journalism awards including the Journalist of the Year award in 1957, among others. Nakpil has published: “Woman Enough and other essays” (1963), “A Question of Identity” (1973), “The Philippines and the Filipinos” (1977), “The Philippines” (1989), “Rice and Conspiracy” (1990), “Centennial Reader” (1998), “Whatever” (2002), “Myself, Elsewhere” (2006), “Legends and Adventures” (2007) and “Exeunt” (2008). “Myself, Elsewhere,” first in an autobiography trilogy by Nakpil, won the National Book Award in 2006. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Theresa’s College, Manila in 1942. (Philstar. com)
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More Filipinos seen to go cashless – Visa
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 3-9, 2018
BUSINESS NEwS
PH to participate in 12 international trade events
No cash? No problem
by Lisbet
K. esmaeL Manilatimes.net
THE future of the Philippines to go cashless is “good,” payments system giant Visa said, noting more Filipinos are embracing digital payments. Stuart Tomlinson, Visa country manager for the Philippines and Guam, presented in a media briefing on Thursday, July 26, its latest Visa Consumer Payment Attitudes Study which showed that 70 percent of the 500 Filipino respondents have tried to go cashless, with convenience and safety as the main factors driving this adoption. He said 71 percent of the participants are also aware of contactless payment technology, using cards or smartphones, while 69 percent wants to use the system over cash. This marks Filipinos’ shift to digital lifestyle, he said, adding
that 58 percent now prefer shops that also accept cashless payment options, not just cash. VisaNet March 2018 data also stated that more local consumers opt to purchase items using their cards. Also under the consumer payment attitudes report, Filipino online shoppers have surged from 71 percent in 2016 to 92 percent in 2017. Top categories propelling this growth include paying utility bills, fashion, travel, and beauty products. “Currently, online shopping contributes about one-fifth of total spend on Visa cards in the Philippines,” he said. Visa’s bullishness on the Philippines cashless state was also driven by the government and industry leaders’ initiatives to increase the knowledge of Filipinos about electronic payments, the official said. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipi-
by LoueLLa
DesiDerio Philstar.com
Inquirer.net photo
nas said it was targeting to increase cashless payments to 20 percent from the current 1 percent by 2020. Telco giants PLDT Inc. and Globe are also advancing digital adoption among enterprises, for an example, through quick response (QR) code system present in various merchants to allow consumers to purchase goods via their smartphones or buy loads and transfer money through mobile apps PayMaya and GCash. Visa has also boosted its presence in the country with a recent partnership with retail giant SM for cashless transaction. Under the partnership, 5, 000 contactless terminals are enabled across 59 SM Stores in 68 SM Supermalls nationwide, allowing cardholders to make contactless payments. n
IMF sees continued dollar outflows for Philippines by Lawrence
agcaoiLi Philstar.com
MULTILATERAL lender International Monetary Fund (IMF) said the Philippines would continue to spend more US dollars than what it earns amid higher importation of capital equipment and raw materials to support the growing economy. Luis Breuer, IMF mission chief to the Philippines, said the multilateral lender now expects the country’s current account deficit to hit 1.5 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) or five times wider than the previous projection of 0.3 percent of GDP. “The current account deficit is expected to rise to 1.5 percent of GDP by end-2018, reflecting increased imports of capital goods and raw materials,” Breuer said. The projected current account shortfall of the IMF is wider than the revised projection of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) of 0.9 percent of GDP or $3.1 billion. The country’s current account
Luis Breuer, IMF mission chief to the Philippines, said the multilateral lender now expects the country’s current account deficit to hit 1.5 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) or five times wider than the previous projection of 0.3 percent of GDP. Philstar.com photo consists of transactions in goods, 2016. This was the highest since services, primary income and secondary income. This account the current account shortfall measures the net transfer of real amounted to $2.87 billion or resources between the domes- 3.5 percent of GDP in 1999. The tic economy and the rest of the deficit peaked at $5 billion or 5.1 percent of GDP during the Asian world. Last year, the country spent financial crisis in 1997. Breuer said the current acmore dollars than it earned, translating to a current account count deficit of the Philippines deficit of $2.52 billion or 0.8 per- is projected to remain managecent of GDP, more than double able, financed largely by foreign the shortfall of $1.2 billion or direct investments (FDIs). 0.4 percent of GDP recorded in u PAGE A9
THE Philippines plans to participate in 12 international trade events and conduct outbound business matching missions to six countries for the rest of the year to help promote the country’s exports, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said. DTI-Export Marketing Bureau director Senen Perlada said for August, the country is looking at participating in the Automechanika trade fair in Frankfurt in Germany as well as in the Brunei Halal Showcase to promote automotive and halal food products, respectively. For the month of September, he said there are plans to participate in the China-Asean (Association of Southeast Nations) Expo to promote Philippine food, services and other consumer goods, as well as in the Maison et Objet in Paris in France for the lifestyle
and fashion sector. As for October, the Philippines is interested in the MIPCOM or the largest trade event for entertainment content being held in Cannes, France; the Korea International Furniture and Interior Fair in South Korea; the food and beverage expo FABEX in Japan; and international food exhibition SIAL in Paris. Perlada said the Philippines is also looking at the following events to be held in November: the China International Import Expo in Shanghai; computer and video games trade show G-Star in South Korea; International Furniture Fair Tokyo in Japan and the international trade fair for electronic components, systems and applications called Electronica in Munich in Germany. Aside from participating in international trade shows, the DTI through the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions, is also set to hold the
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Manila FAME in October, which would serve as the venue to source Philippine home, fashion, holiday and architectural and interior pieces. The DTI is likewise organizing outbound business matching missions to South Africa and Mozambique to promote Philippine food, services and consumer goods. An outbound business matching mission in Israel is also in the pipeline to market electronics and information technology and allied industries as well as in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait to focus on halal products. In addition, there are planned visits to Vietnam and Myanmar to promote Philippine brands for franchising. “[These are] the international promotion projects or events that we plan to undertake for the rest of the year to boost exports,” Perlada said. n
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AUGUST 3-9, 2018 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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OPINION
No one’s tool
FEATURES
HE won’t allow himself to be used as a tool for political persecution, and he will address allegations of corruption and slow justice in his office. Samuel Martires, who formally assumes his post this week as ombudsman, is making the right noises so far about his priorities. Only time will tell if he will prove true to his word. One of his predecessors, Merceditas Gutierrez, had promised to be “merciless” in her work. She ended up accused of being overly merciful toward allies of the president who appointed her, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. In March 2011, under a new administration, the House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly to impeach Gutierrez. She resigned as ombudsman 10 days before the start of her Senate impeachment trial. President Duterte and his allies also eyed the impeachment of Gutierrez’s successor, Conchita Carpio-Morales, on accusations of dispensing selective justice. Morales, however, was spared and retired as scheduled last week. Martires, who like Morales is a retired associate justice of the Supreme Court, can learn from the experiences of his predecessors. His opinions in the SC and as a Sandiganbayan justice have been
favorable to Rodrigo Duterte and the current administration as well as the Marcoses. The new ombudsman is clearly aware of doubts about his independence from the appointing power. Independence is a critical element in effectively carrying out his constitutional mandate. President Duterte, also aware of the doubts, has stressed that he could not issue orders to the ombudsman, but that he hoped Martires would “do what is right.” Doing what’s right means fighting corruption without fear or favor. What’s right is also working faster so that those facing court trial cannot secure an acquittal by citing any “inordinate delay” on the part of the ombudsman. Martires’ sound bites have been encouraging so far. His words will be put to the test every day. (Philstar.com)
Editorial
‘Medicare for All’ would save America $2 trillion over 10 years while covering everybody
The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS THE TRUTH really has a way of revealing itself, and in many times, those who intend to undermine it become instrumental in actually putting the spotlight on what the public needs to know. In this case, I am talking about the clamor of most Americans to have “Medicare for All,” pushed by former presidential candidate Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders for decades. Standing on the principle that HEALTH CARE is a RIGHT of ALL Americans, and not just
With Due Respect ARTEMIO V. PANGANIBAN BEYOND and apart from its controversial federalism proposals, the consultative committee (ConCom) nonetheless deserves credit for crafting notable reforms that can be seriously discussed and eventually adopted now or in the future, whenever constitutional amendments or revisions are at hand. Let me briefly outline some. First, in Article I of its draft constitution, the ConCom defined our “National Territory” in clearer language, unmistakably upholding our sovereignty and sovereign rights in the South China Sea, thus: “[The Philippines] has sovereignty over islands and features outside its archipelagic baselines pursuant to the laws of the Federal Republic, the law of nations, and the judgments of competent international courts or tribunals.” Moreover, our country “has sovereign rights over that maritime expanse beyond its territorial sea to the extent reserved to it by international law, as well as over its extended continental shelf, including the Philippine Rise.” And, without directly mentioning our claim over Sabah but implicitly alluding to it, the ConCom’s draft stressed that our country “likewise has sovereignty over other territories belonging to the Philippines by historic right or legal title.” This definition of our national territory should calm down even those who attack the Duterte administration for alleged timidity in asserting our arbitral maritime victory over China, and the current and previous
Philstar.com photo
a privilege for a few, Sanders’ push for universal health care has been met by strong corporate opposition who wants to continue with making money out of health care, which has caused so many American families file for bankruptcy in this richest and most powerful country that is America. Corporate giants and the people they lobby and donate campaign contributions to in both the Republican and Democratic Parties contend that America cannot afford “Medicare for All” because it will just be too costly and America can-
not afford it. One of the richest of the rich Americans who wish to undermine the growing support for “Medicare for All” are rightwing billionaires Charles and David Koch, who even funded a study conducted by George Mason University-based Mercatus Center. The results of the study that corporate America wanted to highlight was that Sen. Bernie Sanders’ (I-Vt.) widely popular “Medicare for All” plan would cost $32.6 trillion over the next decade. However, the analysis of such
report revealed something that the Koch Brothers would find to be counter to their intent of funding such a study. As Matt Bruenig of the People’s Policy Project notes— though absent or buried in much of the initial reporting— even the Koch brothers’ numbers, which Sanders says are vastly inflated, demonstrate that the “U.S. could insure 30 million more Americans and virtually eliminate out-ofpocket healthcare expenses” while saving “a whopping $2 trillion” in the process. In response to the
study, Sanders wrote: “Let me thank the Koch brothers for sponsoring a study that shows that Medicare for All would save the American people $2 trillion over a 10year period. I suspect that that is not what you intended to do, but that is what is in the study of the Mercatus Center—an organization that you significantly fund. “At a time when the United States spends far more per capita on health care than any other country on earth, almost 18 percent of our GDP, a Medicare-for-all health care system
would save the average family significant sums of money. The time is long overdue for the United States to join every other industrialized country and guarantee health care to all in a cost-effective manner.” Will you support “Medicare for ALL”? *** 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
Beyond federalism, ConCom’s notable reforms administrations’ alleged neglect in pushing for our “historic right or legal title” over Sabah. Second, in its Article II, “Declaration of Principles and State Policies,” the draft unequivocally clarifies, “The government is the protector of the people and the Federal Republic” while the “Armed Forces of the Philippines shall secure the sovereignty of the Republic and the integrity of its national territory.” The foregoing replaces the ambiguous “declaration” of the present Charter that says, “The Armed Forces of the Philippines is the protector of the people and the State.” This provision is being misused by political adventurers to justify a military coup against supposedly abusive civilian regimes. Third, Article III, the “Bill of Rights,” starts with a major amplification: “The rights under this article are demandable against the state and nonstate actors, and their enforcement shall be consistent with international standards.” This is significant because, under our prior constitutions, the Bill of Rights was traditionally demandable and enforceable only against the state and state actors. We now know that there are “nonstate actors”—like large multinational companies, international organizations, some local conglomerates and even powerful individuals—who/which can and do violate fundamental rights, especially of the poor and the weak. Fourth, recognizing our people’s right to prosperity and wellbeing, “Social and Economic Rights” as well as “Environmental and Ecological Rights” are expressly enumerated and cherished in the draft.
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED. Former Chief Justice Reynato Puno and members of the Consultative Committee present the draft federal charter to President Rodrigo Duterte in Malacañang. The president however asked the ConCom to revise the provision in the proposed constitution so that the transition president will be elected by the people. Malacañang photo
Fifth, to correct injustices in precipitate acquittals, the draft provides clear exceptions to the double jeopardy rule, “where the offended party is deprived of due process or where there is a finding of mistrial, or when the trial court acted with grave abuse of discretion …” Sixth, for the first time in our
constitutional history, the draft contains a definition of “political dynasty” and self-executing prohibitions for the members thereof from running for, or being appointed to, or for being declared ineligible for a public office. Seventh, in line with worldwide trends to propel the
economy, the draft retains the nationalistic provisions of the 1987 Charter but allows the legislature—taking into account the evolving national interest—to change the ownership percentages as well as the management and control prerogatives that can be allowed to foreigners.
Eighth, the various methods of amendment or revision are worded simply and clearly, especially the separate voting requirements in the bicameral legislative branch. There are some more wellconceived reforms, but my space is limited. I will take them up at another time. (Inquirer.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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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 3-9, 2018
A9
New Ombudsman vows speedy...
HEARING ON HOUSING IRREGULARITIES. Senator JV Ejercito, chair of the Senate Committee on Urban Planning, Housing and Resettlement, presides over a Senate inquiry looking into the alleged irregularities in the implementation of government programs on the resettlement programs for victims of disasters, Tuesday, July 31. “The presence of a mafia-like gang is not remote because wrongdoings in projects like housing will not happen without the collusion and manipulation of erring officials and cheating contractors,” Ejercito said. Senate photo by Cesar Tomambo
Palace to lawmakers: No harm in sponsoring TRAIN 2 PAGE A6 discussing the reform law so any traces of hesitancy will be eliminated. According to the report, finance officials said TRAIN 2 would simplify an overly complex corporate tax system. Its complexity imposes a large administrative burden for the government and taxpayers and gives “special treatment” to a minority of corporations that pay
6 percent to 13 percent. Senate majority leader Miguel Zubiri admitted that no senator wants to sponsor the measure since they were “traumatized” by the first version of TRAIN. The first version of TRAIN exempts individuals earning an annual taxable income of P250,000 and below from paying personal income tax. It also increased the tax exemption for 13th-month pay
and other bonuses to P90,000. However, TRAIN 1 also imposed new taxes on diesel, liquefied petroleum gas, bunker fuel for electricity generation and higher taxes on oil products. It is also criticized for the increase in commodity prices but officials dismissed those claims saying it was purely a result of a weak peso and a global oil price hike. ■
IMF sees continued dollar outflows... PAGE A7 This despite the projected lower FDI inflows of $9.2 billion set by the BSP for this year after reaching a record $10.02 billion last year. year. “Downside risks stem mainly from rising inflation, continued rapid credit growth, higher US interest rates and U.S. dollar, volatile capital flows and trade tensions,” Breuer added. The BSP expects the country’s external payments position to further bleed this year with a wider balance of payments (BOP) deficit of $1.5 billion or 0.4 percent of GDP instead of $1 billion. The BOP is the difference in total values between payments into and out of a country over a period. A deficit means more foreign exchange flows out of the
country to pay for the importation of more goods, services and capital than what flows in from exports. Latest data showed the country’s BOP deficit swelled to $3.26 billion in the first half of the year from only $706 million in the same period last year due to the widening trade deficit. The shortfall was more than double the projection of $1.5 billion for this year. For his part, BSP Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. said the country’s BOP position has been posting deficits since 2016 on account of strong foreign currency outflows, reversing previous surpluses accumulated from the large inflows due to quantitative easing since the global financial crisis. “With the normalization of U.S. monetary policy and ris-
ing global interest rates, we see significant corrections in capital flows that are affecting our BOP and exchange rate. This is compounded by uncertainties posed by the trade war and geopolitical risks,” Espenilla said. The BSP chief added the external position remains manageable as the country has sufficient liquidity buffers against global headwinds with gross international reserves (GIR) level of $77.67 billion as of end June, equivalent to 7.5 months’ worth of imports. Aside from the twin deficits in trade and current account, the peso slumped to its weakest level in 12 years piercing the 53 to $1 level this year as the U.S. Federal Reserve jacked up interest rates for the second time this year and sees two more rate hikes instead of one for the rest of the year. ■
PAGE A6 eye to eye with Alvarez. Alvarez had accused Mayor Duterte of turning opposition for forming her own regional party, Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP) or Alliance for Change. She then accused Alvarez of betraying her father by bragging to people that as the speaker, he could unseat the president through impeachment. Alvarez denied making such statements. Mayor Duterte was said to have played a key role in Arroyo’s rise as speaker, with sources saying the president’s daughter burned the lines to marshal support for the former president. Subsequently, The Times ran a story, citing House sources, of PDP-Laban members mulling jumping ship to the Davao City mayor’s HNP. Castro, however, maintained that the presence of the mayor during the lunch meeting was not a discussion about people jumping ship or political parties merging with her regional party. “She (Mayor Duterte) was there to say hello. Nothing was discussed about any coalition,” he said. Castro, however, conceded that a number of political parties, namely Nacionalista Party (NP), Nationalist People’s Coalition, National Union Party, Lakas-CMD and PDP-Laban were well-represented during Speaker Arroyo’s lunch. “As former Speaker [Jose] de Venecia used to call it, it was a
Supreme Court Associate Justice Samuel Martires greets an employee after his last flag-raising rite at the high court on Monday, July 30. ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma
rainbow coalition,” Castro added. ‘Political force’ Sen. Panfilo Lacson on Monday said the HNP regional party of Mayor Duterte has become a “political force” to reckon with. The senator made the remark on Monday as Arroyo threw a thanksgiving luncheon for Mayor Duterte, Ilocos Norte Rep. Imee Marcos, and more than 100 lawmakers who elected her speaker. “Accept it or not, Mayor Sara Duterte’s HNP has already emerged as a political force to reckon with, not only in her region but the national political scene as well,” Lacson said in a text message. “The fact that she is being talked about as the ‘architect’ behind the changing of the guard in the HoR (House of Representatives), true or not, says it all,” he added. Asked to comment on Arroyo’s election as House speaker, Lacson, once a fierce Arroyo critic, said “I still believe that no person
is beyond redemption.” “Regardless of her past ‘sins’ against the Filipino people, she may have regretted all those and make time for genuine and selfless service to the nation. Or so I hope,” he said. Arroyo became the first woman speaker of the House two years after regaining freedom from detention over corruption charges and a year after she was sacked as deputy speaker by defying Alvarez and voting against the death penalty bill for drug traffickers. After four years in detention, the Sandiganbayan on July 21, 2016 ordered Arroyo’s release from hospital arrest at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center, two days after the Supreme Court acquitted her and former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board member Benjamin Aguas of plunder over their alleged misuse of P366 million in PCSO funds from 2008 to 2010. ■
House Speaker Arroyo meets Davao City Mayor... PAGE A6 merging with her regional party. “She (Mayor Duterte) was there to say hello. Nothing was discussed about any coalition,” he said. Castro, however, conceded that a number of political parties, namely Nacionalista Party (NP), Nationalist People’s Coalition, National Union Party, LakasCMD and PDP-Laban were wellrepresented during Speaker Arroyo’s lunch. “As former Speaker [Jose] de Venecia used to call it, it was a rainbow coalition,” Castro added. ‘Political force’ Sen. Panfilo Lacson on Monday said the HNP regional party of Mayor Duterte has become a “political force” to reckon with. The senator made the remark on Monday as Arroyo threw a
thanksgiving luncheon for Mayor Duterte, Ilocos Norte Rep. Imee Marcos, and more than 100 lawmakers who elected her speaker. “Accept it or not, Mayor Sara Duterte’s HNP has already emerged as a political force to reckon with, not only in her region but the national political scene as well,” Lacson said in a text message. “The fact that she is being talked about as the ‘architect’ behind the changing of the guard in the HoR (House of Representatives), true or not, says it all,” he added. Asked to comment on Arroyo’s election as House speaker, Lacson, once a fierce Arroyo critic, said “I still believe that no person is beyond redemption.” “Regardless of her past ‘sins’ against the Filipino people, she may have regretted all those and
make time for genuine and selfless service to the nation. Or so I hope,” he said. Arroyo became the first woman speaker of the House two years after regaining freedom from detention over corruption charges and a year after she was sacked as deputy speaker by defying Alvarez and voting against the death penalty bill for drug traffickers. After four years in detention, the Sandiganbayan on July 21, 2016 ordered Arroyo’s release from hospital arrest at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center, two days after the Supreme Court acquitted her and former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board member Benjamin Aguas of plunder over their alleged misuse of P366 million in PCSO funds from 2008 to 2010. ■
A10 AUGUST 3-9, 2018
• NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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SF The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - August 3, 2018
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cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - August 3, 2018
Fil-Am Elaine Castillo’s debut novel earns rave reviews by
MoMar G. Visaya / AJPress
“[AMERICA IS NOT THE HEART is] a love story, a multi-generational family epic, and a deeply personal, lavishly painted portrait of lives in revision . . .With a sophistication rare in a first novel, Castillo recognizes a larger network of suffering—an understanding that trauma is, along with our mutual need for love, food, sex, and a coherent sense of self, one of humanity’s least exclusive clubs . . . [AMERICA IS NOT THE HEART] has an offhand vitality that startles on every page with its compassion and humor.”— Megan O’Grady, Vogue The chorus of praise for Elaine Castillo’s debut novel “America is Not the Heart” is a symphony of adoration from mainstream publications and critics such as New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Cosmopolitan, Elle and Vulture, among others. Castillo has been called “one of the most promising new voices in fiction” and her book, published by Viking Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House as “extraordinary, exquisite and evocative”. The 33-year-old Milpitas, California-based author was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. She is a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, and received her MA in creative and life writing from Goldsmiths, University of London. Her dad, from Ilocos Sur, was a surgeon before she was born and when she was growing up, she remembered him working as a security guard. Her mom, from Pangasinan, worked as a nurse. “I have one younger brother and three older half-siblings from my father’s first marriage, we’re a little mixed family. Minsan baby ako, minsan ate,” she shared in between bites of longganisa. We were at Jeepney with a big group enjoying a hearty kamayan feast. For someone who has already read the book, the kamayan dinner was most
appropriate. Castillo wrote unapologetically about Filipino language, culture and food, the one she grew up eating, particularly dinuguan, pinakbet, daing na bangus, Pinoy pork BBQ and of course the classics: pancit, lumpia, and lechon. She recalled writing about 1,000 pages for the book’s first draft. By the time it was ready for publication, it was whittled down to 400 something pages. “It was surreal and I was in denial. If you’re a writer and you’ve been writing for so long, you don’t really believe that it exists in the universe. You just know it as something that exists in your Word document,” she reminisced the moment she turned in her final draft. “I felt a kind of detachment from it – okay, this is for the readers now, there’s some alienation from it.” She said it took three years of editing, starting in 2013 when she wrote the prologue. She thought she was going to write it from another perspective but she couldn’t write from that same point of view anymore after writing about 200 pages of text. Then she shifted to a POV of someone from the NPA or New People’s Army, one that has always been at the back of her head. “We have a family member – who I never met - who is a high-ranking NPA official.
I knew I had to write from her perspective. It was a seed planted in my head. That character knows Roni and the other characters and that was when the entire world sort of opened up,” she shared. Back from PH Castillo was still giddy with excitement when we met. She was just in Manila a little over 24 hours earlier as part of her book tour where she headlined the Philippine International Literary Festival and World Book Day celebrations. She was there for about eight days. “It was absolutely life changing for me,” she admitted. Her first time was when she was kidnapped - spoiler alert – much like a character in the novel. Second time was 22 years later and obviously, she said there was some trauma about going to the Philippines. Besides, going back to the Philippines for vacation was unheard of for her and her family. “The only people I knew who regularly went back were in a middle class family or upper middle class who could afford to do it. My parents couldn’t afford to do that. I’ve never been on a vacation,” she said. This year it was totally different. “This was my first time going back as an adult, without my family, not as a daughter or cousin of somebody. It gave me a relationship with the Philippines, with Manila that I hadn’t anticipated ever really happening,” Castillo admitted. Aside from meeting new friends and starting relationships she never imagined she’d be able to make, Castillo is ecstatic to learn about the state of the literary world in the country her parents call home. “The things that I learned, the literary scenes in the regions and not just in Manila, and the kinds of comics atmosphere there; and the real, radical resistance to a regime,” she quipped. “It was deeply nourishing and revivifying in a way where I now think, when do I go back?” She mentioned buying books of the amazing writers and authors she met, among them Glenn Diaz (“The Quiet Ones”), Kristine Ong Muslim (“The Drone Outside” and
Elaine Castillo with Nicole Ponseca, owner of Jeepney and Maharlika.
“Black Arcadia”) and Emiliana Kampilan (“Dead Balagtas Tomo 1: Mga Sayaw ng Dagat at Lupa”). Memorializing Milpitas Growing up in the Bay Area, she said there were only a few Filipino-American authors that she knew of. Castillo grew up in what she describes as a very Filipino neighborhood in a very Filipino atmosphere. Her town, Milpitas in California is a majority minority and there’s a large Filipino, Vietnamese, Mexican, Taiwanese communities there, which is why she said she didn’t grow up thinking of herself as a minority. “I read quite a lot of translated works, which I realize now probably is a sub-conscious political response to a white mainstream canon. I read a lot of Filipino American writers from Jessica Hagedorn to Carlos Bulosan. That book, “America is in the Heart”, was the first time I ever read about someone from Pangasinan,” she said. Castillo had read books about the Philippines but most of them focused on Manila and the rich people who lived there. She found it hard to reconcile that with the stories of her parents about provincial life, which is why she immediately related to Bulosan’s description of rural life in his own hometown of Binalonan, Pangasinan. Asked if her novel is her response to Bulosan’s classic masterpiece, she replied, “To be honest, I didn’t actually think of the title as the grand, ambitious answer to Bulosan.” “As a Filipino, I like a pun. So whenever I read the title America is in the Heart from Bulosan, I always thought, ‘America isn’t the Heart’ just as a rhyming joke that I used to say to myself. It was never a big thing. It came from that private, personal joke,” she said. At the Asian American Writers Workshop in New York a few days later, Castillo shared the stage with poet Joseph Legaspi and author Luis Francia in a panel moderated by another author, Gina Apostol. The event was sponsored by Kundiman and PAL / Pilipinx American Library, a moveable non-lending library that celebrates Filipinx narratives. “I was a very big reader as a kid but at that point, I didn’t know I was going to be a writer. I didn’t read him (Bulosan) in class, I found him in a library and I was around 13, 14,” she shared. “We are all in some way kids of Bulosan. It was the first Filipino book I read that talked about Pangasinan and the rural poverty that my mom came out of.” Hero’s Story Loosely based on Castillo’s family history, America is Not the Heart is a fierce, heartbreaking novel that traces the promises and limitations of the American dream over three
Elaine Castillo with Elda Rotor, Vice President and Publisher for Penguin Classics about to enjoy the kamayan feast prepared by Chef Miguel Trinidad at Jeepney. Filipino food is almost on every page of her book, something that Castillo said she did not realize at first. AJPress photos by Momar G. Visaya
generations in one family. It is also a deeply affecting, modern love story about two young women struggling to forge their identities after shedding past versions of themselves. “The main character is a bisexual woman who is a former NPA rebel. For me personally, I am a bi woman myself. I would love to see more bi characters in fiction, I don’t think I see enough,” she lamented. The novel follows Geronima (“Hero”) de Vera, a Filipina doctor and communist rebel who is captured from a remote insurgency outpost by the military. After enduring isolation and torture, she is finally released from prison and her wealthy family helps her escape the country. Hero finds refuge with a favorite uncle now living in a tight-knit Filipino-American community in Milpitas, California. Slowly, Hero adjusts to her new life as an undocumented immigrant. Unable to immediately mend the bonds shattered by class difference and misunderstood vulnerabilities with her blood relatives in Milpitas, Hero finds surprising refuge in the larger Filipino
community--who welcome her with a gentle compassion and easy acceptance that she has never experienced before. The book reveals a side of the San Francisco Bay Area that is sorely lacking in representation. Castillo’s Milpitas is not the glittering techscape most often portrayed in the media; it takes place in strip mall beauty salons, church multi-purpose rooms, and Filipino restaurants. Castillo’s characters speak in English and Tagalog, Pangasinense and Ilocano. They visit emergency rooms and faith healers. They work graveyard shifts and over-mortgage their homes, supporting a rotating cast of family members in need. Castillo is at once generous and incisive in how she writes about the inequality, immigration, sexuality, multiculturalism, and power in contemporary American life. Exuberant reviews aside, “America is Not the Heart” is a great addition to the growing diaspora’s own literature since it presents not just a snapshot of Filipino immigrant life in America but also one that is rich and replete with details of Filipino culture and history.
Gretchen Barretto on being called a mistress: Richard Gomez–dad, ‘I’m the kabit who’ll live happily ever after’ husband, public servant grab of the alleged basher Frederick Dison’s (@boshie1185) Inquirer.net reply on one of her Instagram GRETCHEN Barretto’s relaStories, sharing the Instagram tionship with partner Antonio page of the said basher. She “Tonyboy” Cojuangco has had written “LLL for Loser always been an open book. This [face screaming in fear emoji]” time, the eldest of the Barretto alongside the Instagram handle clan spoke up against an online of Dison. basher who persistently sends “Kirida the dakilang her negative comments. kabit (Mistress, the great “Old news yes, I am all that concubine),” said the basher. you say I am [and] you follow “Greta, kirida, kabit (mistress, me on Instagram,” wrote Barconcubine) sounds like a retto in a post she uploaded via tongue twister.” the platform Saturday, July 28. Barretto’s fans were quick “I am who I am [and] I so [love] to express their support for it [and] you [d]ie in envy burn, the actress, applauding her for burn, burn.” her tough remarks against the “I am the kabit (concubine) basher. who will live [h]appily ever after Earlier on Saturday, Barretto [and] you will be the envious shared another screengrab who will die each time you of the comment Dison left on see me soar high,” added the one of her Instagram posts. “I actress. “Rest In Peace envious hope you could do better on [b****] I shall soar high while the social media than showing you die.” off your lifestyle Ms. Greta,” Barretto posted a screen commented the basher. “If you by Kate
and health advocate
Matriano
by arlo
Custodio
ManilaTimes.net
Gretchen Barretto
could do even better. #JUSTSAYING.” The actress retorted: “@ boshie1185 really, like bashing me is something better than what I am posting ?! I am who I am & I will do whatever pleases me Deal with it C’est la vie.” Barretto for some time
ACTOR and now Ormoc City mayor Richard Gomez was his jovial self when he met the entertainment press at the launch of his latest health advocacy at Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City early this month. Under the auspices of the Philippine Heart Association (PHA), Gomez said he acquired a total of 11 units of autoPhoto from Instagram/@juansarte mated external defribillator (AED), a life-saving device for now has apparently owned his city as part of Ormoc’s disup to the mistress tag she has aster preparation measure. He been repeatedly labeled with. added that local government Despite being together with units (LGUs) are allowed by law the business tycoon for more to purchase such items, dispelthan two decades, Cojuangco ling immediately issues that has yet to annul his marriage may arise when asked about with equestrienne Denise Yabut intervention from the CommisCojuangco. sion on Audit (COA).
The actor—known as Brown Adonis during his heyday as local cinema’s hottest property—also revealed there was not much convincing for him to give face to the advocacy campaign. “Sandwich at Zest-O lang sapat na [for talent fee],” he laughed. He said that more people must be trained on cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and with the aid of AEDs, can save lives during emergencies. Gomez himself went through CPR training and was in every phase, making him perfect example to do echo seminar-training to save more people from heart attack or stroke. SONA presence One of the questions posed Continued on Page SF6
A green card is still possible despite a fraudulent entry Your Immigration Solution DEVIN M. CONNOLLY MANY people from throughout the world are desperate to come to the United States. They genuinely believe that entering America will lead to a better life because of the employment opportunities, the education system for their children, etc. With all the benefits that the United States has to offer, the decision to migrate to the U.S. often becomes an easy one. The hard part then becomes actually getting to the U.S. For one Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza client, who we will refer to as Angela to protect her privacy, entering the U.S. proved to be ‘almost’ impossible. She was denied a tourist visa multiple times, did not have any family members of prospective employers in the U.S. that could petition her, and she was feeling hopeless in the Philippines, her native country. Angela was then advised to seek the help of a travel agent who could assist her in getting a tourist visa under an assumed name. Angela knew this was wrong. She may not have known the specific law she was violating or that she would have a lifetime bar from ever obtaining permanent resident status in the U.S. (green card) because of this fraudulent act, but she still knew that her actions were not right. But she did it anyways. She was so desperate to come to the U.S. so that she could work and support her family. She decided to take advantage of the opportunity to come to U.S. and deal with the consequences later. After years of residing in
that Angela’s husband would suffer an “extreme hardship” if her request for a waiver was denied. They prepared declarations from Angela and her husband about their close, loving relationship and about how Angela’s husband would suffer emotionally if he was separated from his wife. Attorney Connolly also presented evidence of why it was not feasible for Angela and her husband to simply both move to the Philippines. This evidence included difficulties in them finding jobs in the Philippines due to age discrimination and concerns about their safety due to extrajudicial killings. Finally, Angela’s children also provided declarations about what a wonderful mother Angela had been throughout their lives. It is true that any hardship the children would suffer upon their mother’s deportation was not a factor, but this helped to establish that Angela was a person of good moral character despite her one prior fraudulent act so many years ago. based on a petition from her Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza U.S. citizen son, who by this is now pleased to announce time had already turned 21that Angela was granted her years-old. He also explained, waiver and she is now a proud however, that Angela’s case green card holder in the U.S. did present some challenges Angela is no longer concerned because of her entry to the about being deported or U.S. under an assumed name. Attorney Connolly informed separated from her family, but Angela that she was eligible to rather is looking forward to the apply for her green card in the day when she will be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship! U.S. through a process called “adjustment of status.” While *** this would simplify the procReeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of ess since Angela could receive the oldest, largest and most experienced her green card in America and immigration firms in the United States with not be required to return to offices in Pasadena, San Francisco, Las the Philippines, she would still Vegas, Manila and China. need a waiver of her inadmisTelephone: (800) 795-8009 sibility. Attorney Connolly was E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com very honest with Angela about website: www.rreeves.com the process of applying for a *** waiver. He told her that waivThe analysis and suggestions offered in ers can be difficult, but that this column do not create a lawyer-client they can definitely be granted relationship and are not a substitute for if properly prepared. the personalized representation that is Attorney Connolly and An- essential to every case. gela began working on proving (Advertising Supplement) the U.S. without valid immigration status, Angela finally decided to do something about it. She knew that being married to a green card holder and having U.S. citizen children would help, but she also knew that her entry to the U.S. under an assumed name would complicate her case. Regardless, Angela decided that it was finally time to speak with an experienced immigration attorney so that she could legalize her status in America. Angela consulted Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza about her case. She met with Attorney Devin Connolly, a senior partner of the firm, and told him her complete immigration history. Attorney Connolly explained to Angela and her family that she was indeed eligible to apply for her green card
Attorney Connolly informed Angela that she was eligible to apply for her green card in the U.S. through a process called “adjustment of status.”
entertainment SF3 Catriona redefines the meaning of being a beauty queen The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - August 3, 2018
by ARLO
CUSTODIO
ManilaTimes.net
IT’S already the middle of the third quarter but the date and venue of the 67th edition of the Miss Universe has not been announced yet. Nevertheless, the country’s representative to the world’s most prestigious beauty pageant said she has been training since June to win the fourth crown and title for the Philippines. “I have been doing preparations since June. I’ve been training —walking my pasarela, working out, learning make-up techniques, and meeting with designers to make sure that the Filipino culture is represented 100 percent in all my outings for the pageant,” the Filipino-Australian said during her launch as guest editor of ABS-CBN Lifestyle digital content “Inspo”. Gray is known to be articulate and able to answer even the hardest questions under pressure. She has also built a reputation as a singer and do-gooder via meaningful advocacies before she became a beauty queen. What most people hardly know, however, is that she’s a good writer as well, which the network’s digital platform uncovers via Inspo. In turn, the show gives her confidence a boost as she prepares to carry the nation’s colors in international pageantry the second time around. Like a regular person She said that as a voracious reader since childhood she imbibed the unwritten dictum that “good writing is good reading” and vice versa. Inspo, abbreviated term for inspiration, fits Gray to a tee as the inaugural guest editor of the Lifestyle segment of the network with its motto, “Inspiring Stellar Stories” – helping curate the site content of style and fashion, food and dining, health and wellness, travel and leisure, pop culture, homes, technology, and “all other
inspiring and relevant stories to guide every Filipina to live her best life.” “I don’t really have [an] editorial background [but] I am a reader ever since I was very young. I find [that] I really enjoy expressing myself through literature, [and] through articles,” the 24-year-old towering beauty said. She shared the challenges and stress of working in the media especially in meeting deadlines. “That was the hardest part though. At the drop of a hat, like, it’s really a skill and I very much admire you guys for being able to meet all your deadlines,” she said. As Inspo, Gray said she wanted to change people’s perception of beauty queens – that like everyone else they, too, have interests, perceptions and even problems and not the pictureperfect that they always project to be. “I feel like a regular person [as] a beauty queen is quite un-relatable and some people might look at us and be like ‘how can we relate to you, you always look pretty in photos.’ That’s the boundary I really wanted to break [through] my articles. Just to show people that I, too, have my own ups and downs. I am [a] very simple person behind the title of being a beauty queen,” she said. Beauty queen defined “It’s a modern definition of a woman and that’s evolving,” Gray introduced her stand on transgender beauty queens, now that officially there is one candidate who will vie for the Miss Universe 2018 crown along with her and almost 100 other “true” women. “If the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) has allowed it and is saying that it’s in the name of inclusivity, then of course I’m gonna leave it up to the organization,” she qualified. In a sit-down interview with The Manila Times (and another media entity) later, Gray said that
Catriona Gray aims to win the countryʼs fourth Miss Universe crown. Photo from Instagram/@catriona_gray
thankfully Binibining Pilipinas requires a candidate to be born female. Gray said the Oxford Dictionary definition of beauty queen as “a woman judged most beautiful in a beauty contest,” is now arguable as pageants have evolved to be so much more than a quest for outer beauty in recent years. “No longer are organizations looking for the most beautiful to be ‘the face’ of their brand. Instead, an emphasis is placed on finding the ‘spokesperson.’ Timely, considering in the age of social media and legions of followers, individuals have public platforms like never before. I say it’s time for revision,” she said. “It’s not just about [physical] beauty [as prize of the genetic lottery]. It’s now shifting to what we do have control over: our wit, charm, intelligence, personality. Beauty is becoming a mindset, an attitude,” she expounded. “The selection of the new Miss Spain [Angela Ponce] as the first ever transgender to represent her country at the Miss Universe 2018 pageant is bringing gender discussion to the forefront. All of this is a sign of the inclusive future of pageantry – candidates as advocates, [which is]one of the most beautiful progressions within the pageantry.” Gray said that the advocacy she had been working the last three years now share the spotlight with her. She added that as Continued on Page SF4
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celebrityworld The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - August 3, 2018
celebrity world
Jericho Rosales feels ‘uncomfortable’ being called Asian Drama King
By Ferdie Villar
Twins Mavy and Cassy Legaspi, children of celebrity couple Zoren Legaspi and Carmina Villaroel, are now officially contract stars of GMA Artist Center. The twins signed a contract with the network talent center last July 26.
*** After the emotional post on social media last July 23, fans of actor Xian Lim are in a scramble to find out if he is okay. The post, which seemed to dwell on sadness and rejection, became a puzzle for many, including Xian’s rumored girlfriend, Kim Chiu. On Monday, July 30, during the story conference for her newest film under Regal Films entitled “One Great Love,” Kim was able to answer questions about Xian. According to the actress, she asked him, Actor Xian Lim said that he is doing okay and is “May problema ka ba? Ano facing the challenges of rejection in showbiz. ang problema mo?” Kim said the actor said that the post was just “inspiring words” for people who feel down. “Sabi ko, ‘Halika na, libre na lang kita. Huwag ka nang ano diyan...’” she said. “Pero wala naman daw [siyang problema].” In a separate interview with PEP columnist Jojo Gabinete, Xian said that in spite of all the hurdles he is facing in showbiz, he remains steadfast and undefeated. The actor said, “Ang dami pa ring doubts. Ang dami pa ring insecurities. But hindi pwedeng talikuran iyan. It’s always gonna be there.”
Matinee idol Alden Richards of GMA 7/Pinoy TV has recently recorded his first single, “I Will Be There.” He is also the lead star of GMA 7’s newest action-fantasy series, “Victor Magtanggol.”
Actress Kim Chiu recently said that rumored boyfriend Xian Lim is doing okay, in spite of the emotional post he had on his social media last week.
ACTOR Jericho Rosales has definitely shown that he is more than just a pretty face. In fact, not only is he popular in the Philippines, but he is also considered as an Asian Drama King because his teleseryes have also become a big hit in certain countries in Asia. However, in an interview with Push.com, Jericho admitted that he feels uncomfortable with the title. “...I don’t like titles. Kasi bigla na lang balang araw may papalit sa ‘yo. And I don’t like that,” the actor explained. “I’m not saying don’t call me that, kung gusto nila akong tawagin ng ganun. But I will never say, ‘Hey, I’m [the] Asian Drama King.’ Hindi ko kaya, eh. Hindi ko talaga kaya.” Jericho added that he is
very grateful to ABS-CBN, as he believes the network helped him gain international fame as a teleserye actor. “I thank ABS-CBN for the opportunity kasi don sa projects na lumalabas, di ba? I feel na meron akong great responsibility na kailangan may global appeal yung gagawin namin. So, I just focus more on that — yung palawak na palawak na market more than the title,” he said. “I get to work on projects na...siyempre iba yung feeling na nago-global yung project. I have the opportunity to work with non-Filipino actors, nonFilipino production.” Jericho is also in ABSCBN’s newest teleserye, “Halik,” alongside Sam Milby, Yen Santos and Yam Concepecion.
Actor Jericho Rosales is not only known in Philippine showbiz but also has made waves in other Asian countries because of his teleseryes. He is now known as the “Asian Drama King.”
Beautiful actress Sunshine Cruz shines again in the newest primetime show on GMA 7, “Kapag Nahati Ang Puso.”
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA WHILE appearances may deceive, more often than not, what you are is reflected on the outside. Becoming your own style icon does not mean maxing out your credit cards just to follow the latest fashion trends. Don’t do it. It’s a fool’s errand. You can never get caught up with it anyway. Fashion, like technology, will push the latest trend just to keep and grow market share. It’s all about money and profits. Who says you have to buy every season’s new fashion? Don’t let those so-called fashion Nazis dictate how you dress. First, get comfortable in your own skin. Focus on the positive features and accept and mitigate what you consider as flaws. Then find the style that suits you — something well within your means and makes you comfortable and confident while you do the things you love to do, or in many cases, have to do, on a daily basis. Experiment with the clothes you already have in your closet. Chances are, with the exception of underwear, you probably have all you
Handsome actor Zoren Legaspi, son of veteran movie actor Lito Legaspi and husband of actress Carmina Villaroel, is now back on TV via the teleserye, “Kapag Nahati Ang Puso.”
The Bucket List
Become your own style icon (9th of a series)
“... As within, so without...” —Hermes Trismegistus need. Test combinations of cut, color, texture and style. Take a photo of the combinations that work for you and make you feel good and confident. Browse through magazines and pick a few that appeal to your own sense of who you are. Stick to the time-tested classics and it is more than likely, you will hit the bullseye of being your own style icon. Dump the Hollywood look. Entertainment industry stylists push trends that are flashy, show far too much skin and wobbly, jiggly bits of flesh. Notice how they almost have the same cookie cutter look and the same frozen faces botoxed to the max? No, you don’t want to go there. Keep mixing and matching. Discard the ones you know in your gut you will never, ever use. Reclaim valued space in the closet. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. There is no fashion police to issue you a ticket. Pretty soon, you will know in your gut the look that telegraphs who you are without saying a word.
You’ve heard it before. “Dress for success! Dress to impresss!” Or that famous line: “If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit!” (Okay, I am going off tangent here.) But the point is you must regard slogans with a bit of caution. Catchy rhyming slogans are not necessarily true. Discernment is key. When you dress to impress, you will simply get stressed trying to top each ensemble you put together with the next one. Your ego becomes the driver plus your wallet is lighter. Life is just too short to obsess on this matter. The focus becomes the dress not on how your style makes you comfortable allowing you to function without having to fuss preening all day in front of a mirror. The right style projects the person quite easily, making you your own unique style icon. There may be clones of you, but no one is quite like you. God and your choices make it so. If you work for an organization, it means you have to blend your style and comply Continued on Page SF6
Catriona redefines the meaning...
From Page SF3 an only child, it would be an overwhelming experience to become an “ate” to many young girls and boys within the circle of her advocacy – “Paraiso Bright Beginnings Project” — and the young people who may be nurtured by her writings and musings as Inspo. Hence, her revised definition of beauty queen: Noun. An empowered individual who promotes her cause and/or advocacy through the platform of a pageant. Judged as the most suitable spokesperson of the organization through a criteria of beauty, confidence, performance, communicative ability, and
personality. “And I thank you!” she said. More prepared now than during Miss World Herself the country’s candidate to the Miss World pageant in 2016, ending in the Top 5, Talent Award second placer, winner in the Multimedia platform and one of five winners in the “Beauty With A Purpose” track of the contest, Gray said she agrees with the observation that she is better prepared this time for Miss U. In May, Miss World Organization executive director Steve Douglas Morley (son of chairman Julia Morley) was in Manila for
the launching of Mr. World 2018 pageant in the country. When asked by The Manila Times then his take on Gray being the country’s representative to this year’s Miss Universe, he said that he believes the alumna of their pageant is a lot more prepared this time. “That’s true. I was 22 then, now I’m 24. Suffice it to say, I have matured, having gone through a lot [of experiences], so I can say that I am much more prepared to once again banner the Philippines in the international stage,” the future fourth Filipina Miss Universe told The Manila Times.
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The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - August 3, 2018
Immigration Corner atty. MiChael GurFinkel, eSQ
A ROLLERCOASTER RIDE THAT INCLUDED RETROGRESSION OF PRIORITY DATES, AGING OUT, AND THE FATHER SUCCUMBING TO CANCER JUST BEFORE VISA ISSUANCE ON THIS SUNDAY’S “CITIZEN PINOY!” In July 2007, Raffy’s mother adjusted status in the U.S., hoping to immediately bring her husband and son, Raffy (left) to the U.S. from the Philippines. However, her priority date retrogressed (moved backwards) and the wait stretched for years. Several setbacks occurred, including further retrogression of the priority dates, Raffy aging out, and Raffy’s father being diagnosed with cancer. Unfortunately he passed away in the Philippines without seeing his American dream come true. Raffy’s mother then retained the Law Offices of Michael Gurfinkel, who took over the case from two previous attorneys, who were not taking active steps to move the case forward. Watch how leading U.S. immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel was able to convince the Embassy to reconsider Raffy’s denial, showing he qualified under the Child Status Protection Act, on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday at 6:15 p.m. (PST) on TFC. (Advertising supplement)
Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS
Oxygen, dandruff, female tampons and other facts
What causes dandruff? The cause of dandruff is WHERE does oxygen come not known in majority of cases. from? Excessive greasiness of the skin Oxygen, which makes up and hair among adolescents about 20 percent of the air has been found to initiate danwe breathe in, is an odorless, druff. The contributory factors colorless, tasteless gas, that is implicated include heredity, essential for the production of diet, hormonal imbalance, poor energy and, therefore, to life. hygiene. The existing dandruff Its main source is from living can be aggravated by stress green plants. The ambient air and emotional turmoil. A vacawe inhale is absorbed by the tion or rest may totally elimilungs that “extracts” and filters nate dandruff. Anti-dandruff oxygen, which then combines shampoos (coal tar-based or with hemoglobin (red pigment those containing selenium sulin blood cells). The resultant phide or zinc pyrithione) have oxyhemoglobin is circulated been prescribed by physicians throughout the body by the to arrest dandruff. Overzealous pumping action of the heart use of these shampoos is not to supply oxygen to the entire recommended. body. Some tissues in our body Why do breasts enlarge are more sensitive than others during pregnancy? to oxygen deprivation. The This is nature’s way of brain is super-sensitive to lack preparing the mother for of oxygen. It “dies” in about breastfeeding. The placenta 3-4 minutes after oxygen demakes a lot of estrogen, which, livery ceases (as in suffocation, in combination with the other drowning or cardiac arrest). hormones from the pituitary
(Prolactin) and other glands, cause the ducts in the breasts to grow larger and form more branches. At the same, progesterone, also secreted by the placenta, stimulates the breasts glandular tissues to enlarge. The alveoli (sacs) are lined with milk-producing cells, and the colostrum (first milk), and the subsequent milk, flows into the collecting ducts and out through the nipples. The estrogen and progesterone (secreted by the placenta) actually inhibit milk production. Immediately after delivery and expulsion of the placenta, the suppression-effect of these two hormones are gone, and milk is secreted, as the Prolactin from the Pituitary Gland stimulates milk production. Indeed, the complex (and yet simple) physiology of the human body is mind-boggling. With all the artificial organs being invented, nothing, even to date, can beat Mother Nature. What is dyslexia?
Good news: USCIS to postpone implementation of NTA memo
IN previous articles, I wrote about a recent USCIS policy memorandum (PM), where USCIS would start issuing notices to appear (NTA) if USCIS denied certain immigration benefits (such as extension of status, change of status, adjustment of status, family petition, employment – based petition, etc.) and, as a result of the denial, the person is considered “out of status.” Fortunately, on July 30, 2018, USCIS announced that it would postpone implementing (or enforcing) that PM at the present time until the “operational guidance” or instruction on how to carry out this new policy is issued. The PM had originally instructed to create or update their “operational guidance” within 30 days, and since it is still pending, the PM will not yet take effect. While this is welcome news, it still means this policy will come into effect once USCIS comes up with the guidance. If that is the case, the PM will have very serious, if not devastating, effects on people applying for various immigration benefits, where they could be placed in removal or deportation proceedings if their benefit is denied, such as: • Person on a visitor’s visa
applies for an extension, but the extension is denied after their existing status expired. • Person petitioned by elderly parent, who is earning insufficient income to satisfy the requirements of an affidavit of support, and their case is denied because they’re likely to become a “public charge.” • Person is being petitioned, but forgets to include a critical document like a birth certificate or marriage contract, and USCIS decides to deny the case without serving a request for evidence (RFE). • A couple is truly in love, but are nervous at the marital interview, give conflicting answers, and the case gets denied as a “fixed marriage.” It remains to be seen how this new PM will be put into effect once the operational guidance is issued by USCIS. However, in this era of zero-tolerance, where even merely being out of status makes a person an “enforcement priority,” even the most minor immigration violation or infraction could result in removal/deportation. Even though this new PM is not yet “officially” enforced, it’s possible that officers will already start taking a tough and strict stand when denying a case. That is why if you have any immigration issues or are ap-
plying for immigration benefits, you should seek the advice of an attorney, who can advise you of your eligibility and chances of success, especially in this new climate of enhanced immigration enforcement, where almost everyone who is not a U.S. citizen is considered an enforcement priority. *** 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
“Word blindness” is a term commonly used to describe this condition where the person, starting from childhood, ad extreme difficulty with reading and writing. About 10% of children are dyslexic, and more common among boys. Dyslexia, which may be inherited, is caused by a localized brain lesion, where there is a certain number of brain cells being “faulty,” or there is delayed or incomplete development of the brain. These children are NOT brain damaged. Usu-
ally these youngsters are not recognized as dyslexic and may be thought of as lazy, disobedient, bored, problem kids and be relegated to the background as dumb. Early detection is important for those affected to be able to benefit from special schooling and catch up in their learning skills. With early and proper training, many of them can grow up to be very successful individuals. What is “HELP” syndrome? The acronym stands for
“High Enzyme, Low Platelets,” a condition in a pregnant woman ready to deliver. The blood pressure skyrockets, the liver enzymes go up and the platelets (tissues needed for normal coagulation to prevent bleeding) drops, causing bleeding during delivery. The cause is not known. The condition could lead to severe, uncontrollable hemorrhage, and some maternal deaths have been reported from this syndrome. This is one of the Continued on Page SF7
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entertainment The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - August 3, 2018
Richard Gomez–dad, husband...
From Page SF2 by The Manila Times after the formal launch was his and wife ormoc city 4th District representative Lucy Torres’ garb for the third State of the nation Address (SonA) of President rodrigo Duterte on July 23. Goma (as he’s fondly called in the biz) said that he always has a barong on standby, and his wife can just recycle what she has as what she had done in the past. “Surprising nga ang ginawa niyang twist sa barong ko (in SonA 2016), kaya suprising din this time,” Gomez said. it turned out that the beautiful congresswoman wore an intricate lilac dress that hugged her figure while the mayor wore a simple barong. Gomez also decided to attend the SonA together with his wife this year compared to the previous two when he spent the time listening to the president and watching the proceedings on wide screen he installed in the city hall and around strategic locations in the city for his constituents. “The SonA is where the President proclaims the policies, plans and goals of the administration and it is important that we attentively listen,” he said. Juliana, a surprising jewel When talks shifted to his one and only daughter Juliana, the actor-politician even became more animated in sharing to the press snippets of his fatherhood. He related how Juliana thought she was looking at him but she was actually looking at herself in the mirror. “Funny how she thought that it was me when in fact it was her. it’s really true, magkamukha kami ni Juliana, pero magkamukha rin sila ni Lucy,” he said. Does he regret having only one child, wasting their genes, when they could have produced more beautiful children like Juliana?
The actor-politician with Philippine Heart Association and Department of Health officials at the launch of his latest health advocacy. ManilaTimes.net photo by Rene Dilan
Pistahan Parade and Festival: 25 years of “Celebrating our History and Creating our Legacy”
The largest and most exciting celebration of Filipino culture in the US returns Aug. 11 and 12 at Yerba Buena Gardens in San Francisco The happy and beautiful Gomez family, Richard with daughter Juliana and wife Lucy.
“i think about it sometimes, but Lucy and i haven’t stopped trying, we always try,” he laughed out loud, eliciting as much from the few members of the media that stayed to engage him in chat and banter. Since it’s known that his daughter brought ABS-cBn talent Marco Gallo as her prom date, Gomez said that as far as he knows, the “Pinoy Big Brother 7” teen housemate is just a friend of his unica hija. “But i won’t hinder her in case she goes into romantic relationship, baka ngayon meron na pero ayaw pa lang sabihin sa amin, sa panahon ngayon normal lang na magkaroon na ng karelasyon ang kabataan,” the “groovy” dad said. “Sa showbiz naman, it’s up to her if she wants to enter showbiz. Siyempre, nasa showbiz ako, nasa showbiz din ang mama niya, kaya it’s no wonder if she enters the business too,” he said. The infomercial dubbed
“Gadget AED.PH” shows that knowledge in cPr, accompanied by the use of the device will increase the survivality of persons experiencing heart attack and stroke by 33 percent, as medical practitioner ronald cuyco, who chairs the PHA advocacy campaign, and PHA chairman nanette rey asserted. “it is only befitting that we equip ourselves with basic knowledge in cPr and basic knowledge on how to operate an AED,” Gomez said, adding that the danger lies in the delay in the time of bringing the patient to the hospital before the emergency procedure. Just like in Japan, Singapore and other advanced economies, all stakeholders, including the Department of Health, hope that both government agencies and private institutions—like malls, airports, piers and schools—will be able to install AEDs to save more Filipino lives.
SAn FrAnciSco — in its 25th milestone year, the Pistahan Parade and Festival is expected to once again draw tens of thousands of people throughout the weekend of August 11 and 12 at San Francisco’s Yerba Buena Gardens. This year’s overarching theme is “celebrating our History and creating our Legacy,” as we look to honor the predecessors in our community whose shoulders we stand on and honor the past struggles and successes by the Filipino community. We hope to celebrate our long rich history of struggles and triumphs while also acting as innovators in setting a course for the future, exhibiting a strong voice and sense of cultural pride in our roots. organized by Filipino American Arts Exposition (FAAE), Pistahan is one of the marquee annual events in the SoMA neighborhood which has been designated “SoMA Pilipinas” – a Filipino cultural Heritage District. Taking place on Saturday, August 11 the Pistahan parade will begin with a 10 a.m. ribbon cutting ceremony at the San Francisco civic center. The parade will begin at 11 a.m. and proceed from civic center along Market Street to Yerba Buena Gardens. Among those featured at the parade will be two authentic Philippine jeepneys, San Francisco cable cars, a brigade of Star Wars stormtroopers, Philippine cultural dance groups, marching bands, a human Philippine Flag contingent consisting of Filipino American college student groups from around the Bay Area, and more. on the sports side, Golden State Warriors, San Francisco Giants and oakland Athletics Super Fans will gather to form another contingent with Stomper, the A’s mascot leading the way. Pistahan 25th Anniversary commemorative bandannas will be given away for free (while supplies last) for members of the public who come out to watch the Parade at Market and 7th Streets. This year’s Pistahan Parade’s community Grand Marshall is Daly city’s first Filipina Mayor Juslyn Manalo. Joining Manalo will be Jennifer cabalquinto, cFo of the Golden State Warriors, one of the highest ranking Filipinas in the corporate world. Pistahan’s Hermano and Hermana mayors this year are John and rebecca Delgadorottman. John is a Superintendent at Hathaway Dinwiddie, who just completed building the Salesforce Tower, the tallest building in San Francisco. re-
becca is a trailblazer in the Filipino American community, and was the first Filipina elected in a city-wide election for the SF Democratic county central committee. She recently retired from the Academy of Art University as VP of community and Government relations. Yerba Buena Gardens will offer festival goers a variety of fun and interesting activities, and world-class performances at the Main Stage. Headlining this year’s entertainment are artists traveling all the way from Manila: Martin nievera and Darren Espanto. The Festival will also include cultural dances, talented singers, and delicious Philippine cuisine. There will also be many exciting products offered from various festival vendors throughout the weekend. in addition, the festival has organized seven interactive pavilions celebrating Philippine culture, which are sure to attract the diverse tastes and interests of the public: Art, culinary, Dance, Sports, Health, innovation, and Leadership. For those looking to quench their thirst, the Pistahan Tavern will have refreshing beverages including San Miguel Beer, wines made by Filipino wineries, lambanog (Filipino moonshine) and hard frescoes. The Pistahan Parade and Festival at Yerba Buena Gardens in San Francisco continues to deliver excitement and entertainment, create memorable experiences and bonds among communities, expand horizons, and above all, inspire pride across the generations of Filipinos in the San Francisco Bay Area. “i am so proud to be a part of the Pistahan because it is a true embodiment of the Filipino bayanihan spirit,” FAAE President and Pistahan organizer Al Perez said. “The whole event is organized by an all-volunteer group of amazing, dedicated individuals who are passionate about preserving and sharing our heritage and traditions. i would like to invite everyone to come out and
The Bucket List From Page SF4 with the company dress code. Looking professional and competent is key. remember that as an employee, you are a reflection of the company you work for. if casual jeans and tees are the norm in the company or because the nature of your work requires you to be holed up all day in some obscure cubicle and does not have to face the public, then wear
them. it doesn’t mean, however, that you are required to dress down at all times. Predictability is boring. From time to time, make an effort to look really good just to make yourself feel good. Why buy clothes and let them hang by their lonesome in the closet? Believe it or not, it does your psyche good to receive compliments from time to time, particularly on down days. Do you know what is the
check out the Pistahan Parade along Market Street and celebrate our Pinoy Pride!” Open call for participation The Filipino American Arts Exposition would like to invite the public to participate in the Festival. Here are ways to get involved: 1. Be a vendor/Have a booth. Pistahan is currently looking for Philippine-inspired arts & crafts vendors and community booth exhibitors. For booth applications click to our website at www.pistahan.net. For more info, contact: Al Perez, President, Filipino American Arts Exposition, PistahanSF@gmail. com, (415) 625-EXPo (3976) 2. Sponsor the festival. Support THE premiere Bay Area Filipino event and connect with the largest Asian ethnic group in california! Maximize of our many branding and marketing opportunities. For details contact: Al Perez, PistahanSF@gmail.com, (415) 625-EXPo (3976). 3. Walk in the parade. Get your group together and show your Pinoy Pride! Prizes will be awarded to the Best Spirit, Best Dressed, Best Spectacle, Best Performance and Best overall. Pistahan founders and planning committee alumni members are invited to join the 25th anniversary reunion, be at the vanguard of the parade and carry the lead banner when the Parade begins at 11 am. To participate in the parade, fill out the form online: www.pistahan.net > Get involved > Join the Parade. 4. Volunteer. Volunteers are needed in the weeks leading up to the Pistahan, and on the day of the event. Join the dynamic Pistahan Volunteer crew, share your unique talent and skills, give something back to the community and meet lots of cool people who are passionate about promoting the best of Filipino culture. Fill out the short Volunteer Survey at www. pistahan.net > Get involved > Volunteer. (Advertising Supplement)
cherry on top of a unique style icon? it’s a killer smile. A smile that comes from your eyes is a light bulb that dispels darkness and negativity. it is essentially a sneak preview of the wellspring of goodness and love busting to get out from within you. Next week: Back to yet another idea to consider 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
Petitioning children of your spouse from a previous marriage The CTV Files Atty. Dennis ChuA, esq. A stepparent may file an immigrant petition for a stepchild even without the stepparent having to legally adopt the stepchild. However, before a stepparent may be able to file an immigrant petition for a stepchild, the stepparent–stepchild relationship should have been created before a stepchild turns 18 years old. This means that the stepparent and the biological parent of the stepchild must get married before the child turns 18 years old. If the petitioner can no longer file an immigrant petition for the stepchild because the child has turned 18 years old, the child can still be petitioned by the biological parent after she obtains his or her permanent residency status. The significance of having a U.S. citizen
stepparent file for a stepchild is so that they could avoid the visa backlogs for visa petitions filed by legal permanent residents for their minor children (2d preference category). But considering the current visa priority dates being processed under the 2d preference category, the stepchild may be able to immigrate sooner than later even if petitioned by a legal permanent resident biological parent. If the biological parent is about to get married to the U.S. citizen petitioner and the biological parent has a child who is already over 18 years of age, it might be wise to consider postponing the marriage to give the child an opportunity to enter the United States faster. Instead of marrying the biological parent, the U.S. citizen petitioner can just file a fiancé petition for the biological parent. Once the fiancé petition is approved, both the biological parent and child can be issued the corresponding K visas for them to enter the United States. Upon marriage of the U.S. citizen to the biological parent,
both parent and child can file their respective applications for adjustment of status to have their status changed from K to permanent resident status. The decision whether to file a fiancé petition or an immigrant petition is crucial especially if the child is aging out or turning 21 years of age. The decision to just get married instead of filing a fiancé petition could mean a long wait of at least eight years before the child can be able to immigrate to the United States and join the biological parent. *** Atty. Dennis E. Chua is a partner in The Law Firm of Chua Tinsay and Vega (CTV) - a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento and Manila. 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 (415) 495-8088; (619) 955-6277; (916)449-3923 Dchua@ ctvattys.com
The collectible MacCoin is first fully food-backed global currency
EMPLOYMENT
in more than 50 participating countries. More than 6.2 million MacCoins will be distributed globally in more than 50 countries while supplies last. These commemorative coins feature five unique designs, each representing a decade of the Big Mac. Each MacCoin design pulls in elements from that time in history, nodding to art, music and pop culture, while the front-side of the MacCoin celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Big Mac. The MacCoin highlights: • The ‘70s, showcasing the decade’s flower power • The ‘80s alluding to pop art
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The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - August 3, 2018
Oxygen, dandruff, female tampons...
From Page SF6 reasons why prenatal medical checkups are very important to rule out any conditions that may complicate an otherwise normal delivery. Is text messaging bad for our health? Anything in excess, even water, oxygen, talking, food, rest, etc, is bad for us. Wise and appropriate use of cellphones and their nice features, like text messaging, used appropriately, does not pose any health hazard to the user. Cell phones and text messaging are technological wonders of our times, which, when utilized properly, provide great convenience, advantage, and security for the users and their family and friends. Exceptions are the
use of cellphone while driving or doing activities that require full attention. Accidental deaths have been reported form improper use of cellphones. While on a night out, 100 percent attention on your date is a must. In this situation, the repeated use of a cell phone for calls, or frequent text messaging, could hazardous not only to user’s physical health but to the relationship. Besides, this unwelcome practice is rude and anti-social, vehemently frowned upon in polite society. Are female tampons safe? If used properly, yes, the new tampons are fairly safe. In 1978, a worldwide phenomenon called Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) was first described, with symptoms ranging
from high fever, skin rash, fall in blood pressure, severe eye infection, headaches, disorientation, joint and muscle pains, diarrhea and kidney failure. The victims were females (average age 23) having their normal menstrual period. A number of deaths from TSS has been reported. Implicated was the use of super-absorbency tampons, which acted as a culture medium for the staphylococcal infection in the vagina. The longer the tampon was left in the vagina, the greater the risk. The toxin or poison produced by the staphylococci caused the serious illness described above. Most patients recovered after appropriate treatment of intravenous fluids and antibiotContinued on Page SF9
where they live in the world, Big Mac fans recognize the two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles and onions on a sesame seed bun as the iconic burger with a flavor combination that’s just as craveable and delicious as the day it was introduced. It has become such a global icon that The Economist even used the price of the Big Mac to create the Big Mac Index, an economic tool that compares the purchasing power of different international currencies year after year. This global connectivity of the Big Mac inspired the creation of the MacCoin. “Since it was introduced at a family-owned McDonald’s restaurant 50 years ago, the Big Mac has traversed the globe and is enjoyed in cities from Shanghai to Chicago, providing delicious, feel good moments
to people all over the world,” said McDonald’s President and CEO Steve Easterbrook. “So we wanted a global celebration as unique as the burger itself. The MacCoin transcends currencies to commemorate our global iconic burger while giving customers all over the world a chance to enjoy a Big Mac on us.” “When my great-grandfather Jim Delligatti invented the Big Mac at his grill in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, he just wanted to make his local customers happy,” said Nick Delligatti, fourthgeneration McDonald’s owneroperator and great-grandson of Jim Delligatti, the inventor of the Big Mac. “August 2 would have been his100th birthday, and I believe he would be very proud knowing his humble sandwich has made such a lasting impression that people all around the
world can enjoy it wherever they find a McDonald’s.” *MacCoin has no cash value and is only redeemable for one free Big Mac at participating McDonald’s restaurants through 2018. About McDonald’s USA McDonald’s USA, LLC, serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients to more than 25 million customers every day. Nearly 90 percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by businessmen and women. Customers can now log online for free at approximately 11,500 participating Wi-Fi enabled McDonald’s U.S. restaurants. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds. com, or follow us on Twitter @ McDonalds and Facebook www. facebook.com/mcdonalds.
(Advertising Supplement)
McDonald’s unveils limited edition MacCoin to celebrate 50 years of the Big Mac
CHICAGO, Ill. — To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Big Mac, McDonald’s unveiled on Monday, July 30, the MacCoin, a limited edition global currency* backed by the internationally iconic Big Mac that fans across the world can get their hands on starting August 2 to share, collect or redeem. Beginning at lunch time on August 2, customers can receive a MacCoin with the purchase of a Big Mac at 14,000 participating restaurants across the U.S., while supplies last. Starting on August 3 through 2018, customers can redeem their MacCoin for a free Big Mac at participating McDonald’s restaurants in the U.S. and
community
• The ‘90s defined with bold, abstract shapes • The early ‘00s specifically focusing on the technology that was at the forefront of the turn of the century • The ‘10s MacCoin calling attention to the evolution of communication Additionally, the seven languages featured across the various designs represent many of the countries participating: Arabic, English, Indonesian, Mandarin, Portuguese, French and Spanish. In its 50 years, the legendary taste of the Big Mac has helped it achieve universal recognition and a lasting legacy. No matter
EMPLOYMENT
SERVICES
(Advertising supplement)
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entertainment The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - August 3, 2018
EVA certified as a SKYTRAX 5-Star Airline for third year in a row Took 5th place in World’s Top 10 Airlines and 1st place in World’s Best Airport Services
TAIPEI, Taiwan – EVA Air is upholding its high standards for safety and service and continuing its winning ways to take the top spot in “World’s Best Airport Services” of SKYTRAX’s annual World Airline Award categories. In addition, SKYTRAX recognized EVA’s ongoing commitment to quality service as one of only eleven 5-Star Airlines worldwide and ranked it among the World’s Top 10 Airlines of 2018. SKYTRAX revealed its 2018 World Airline Awards in London on Tuesday, July, 17. Travelers can learn more about EVA’s awardwinning services and book tickets at www.evaair.com. Service quality improvement has always been firmly embedded as EVA’s priority. From airport check-in to inflight service, EVA strives for perfection in every detail. As advancing technologies have created new pathways for innovation and continual improvements in the passenger experience, EVA has introduced new comforts and conveniences. For example, EVA’s official website and APP for mobile devices enable passengers to save time at the
to be recognized by travelers from around the globe. We will never lose sight of our goal for EVA to be the very best. We aim to make every journey with us a delightful, relaxing experience for every passenger.” SKYTRAX identified the world’s best airlines through analyses of an extensive global passenger satisfaction survey that featured 335 airlines in the final results. Between August 2017 and May 2018, 20.36 million travelers, representing more than 100 nationalities, responded in English, Spanish and Chinese on 49 survey topics, including airport and onboard environments. The global ratings organization describes the survey as “independent, impartial and global” and its awards program is notfor-profit. The annual World Airline Awards are among the most respected in the airline industry. After being recognized in past survey results for outstanding services and products in multiple areas, EVA is proud to bring home 2018 SKYTRAX World Airline Awards in the categories listed on the chart below: EVA is frequently 2018 Ranking honored, awarded No. 5 and recognized No.1 by organizations worldwide. AirlineRNo.2 atings ranked EVA No.2 among “World’s Top No.3 20 Safest Airlines.” TripAdvisor, the No.5 world’s largest travel No.10 site, honored EVA Air with five distincNo.3 tions, “5th place in No.7 Top-10 World’s Best No.8 Airline Award,” “Top10 Major Airlines in No.8 Asia,” “Best Business No.8
airport by selecting seats and checking in ahead of time. EVA regularly works with well-known brands to create new service items and inflight products such as Natural Benefits cold-pressed mango mixed juice, France’s PAUL pound cake and SEASON Cuisine Pâtissiartism Neige cake. Especially for Royal Laurel Class business passengers, EVA has introduced “California Blue” RIMOWA and Georg Jensen leather amenity kits for longhaul flights to and from Taipei, Taiwan. EVA collaborated with London-Based “APUJAN” to design new pajamas and make its flights even more comfortable. It also has improved and updated service items in Premium Economy Class, starting with new food and beverage menus designed by JL Design. “We are thrilled to be awarded 5-Star Airline certification for the third consecutive year,” said EVA President Clay Sun. “I’m especially grateful to the EVA staff and thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for always doing their very best to serve every passenger. It is a great honor
Award World’s Top 10 Airlines World’s Best Airport Services Best Airline Staff in Asia World’s Cleanest Aircraft Cabins Best Airlines in Asia World’s Best Airline Cabin Crew World’s Best Business class Airlines Best Business Class Comfort Amenities World’s Best Premium Economy class Airlines Best Premium Economy Class Airline Catering World’s Best Economy class Airlines Best Economy Class Airline Seats Best Economy Class Airline Catering
No.7
Continued on Page SF9
Calendar of Events across
America
ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS AU G U ST 2-1 1
SIPA presents Filipino Summer Program (Session 2) in LA Join SIPA’s Filipino Summer Program that showcases LA youth the beauty of Filipino culture and history. Every single day students will learn and gain a better understanding of different aspects of the Filipino culture and community, such as Filipino food, Pilipinx cultural dances, Filipino Martial Arts, etc. The last day of the program will be a SIPA Summer Party where the families can come join SIPA as we celebrate the end of the program with food, music, and fun! Youth ages 6-15 are eligible for the program. Those over the age of 16 can volunteer. Participants do not need to be Filipino. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are served for all students! Session 2 is from August 2-11 (excluding Sundays). Registration ends on Thursday, July 26 at 11:59 p.m. Drop-Off of children begins at 8 a.m., and pick-up ends by 6 p.m. at SIPA Office (3200 W Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026). The application and more information is at bit.ly/sipasummer18.
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University of the Philippines International Nursing and Healthcare Forum in New Jersey Join the 2nd annual University of the Philippines International Nursing and Healthcare Forum on August 3 and 4 at the Double Tree by Hilton (2117 Route 4 Eastbound / Fort Lee, NJ 07024). Soiree and welcome reception will be from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday (registration fee is $50). On Saturday, there will be a breakfast educational program from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (registration fee is $50 with CH Credits and $30 without CH Credits). The day will end with a dinner & dance from 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. (registration fee is $100). Mail your registration and payment to UPINHF c/o Iren Bobis Roldan at 26931 Fort Apache Circle, Lake Forest, CA 92630. Make checks payable to UPINHF INC. For more information, please visit www.upinhf. org.
University of the Philippines International Nursing and Healthcare Forum in New Jersey Calling all 2018 jubilarians and class coordinators! Save the date for the University of the Philippines Nursing Alumni Association’s 39th annual reunion on August 3 and 4 at the Treasure Island Hotel in Las Vegas. This year’s theme is “Confronting the modern-day challenge of bioethical and other critical health care issues. For more info/registration, please visit UPNAAI.com.
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Travel, Trade and Consumer event in Carson, CA The Travel, Trade and Consumer Exhibition will encompass the bustling SouthBay Pavilion (20700 S Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90746), and is free to the public. Presented by the Department of Tourism & the Department of Trade and Industry, the public can participate in promotions and raffles offered by the exhibitors in booths that will line the main mall. Aside from chances to win plane tickets and other exciting prizes, the Mainstage will host a variety of entertainment and interviews by TV personalities. Outdoor food booths shall be serving Philippine delicacies. A B2B area is also available for business presentations. For exhibitor inquiries, please visit www.traveltradeconsumer.com and contact info@asianjournlainc.com.
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UBSCI to celebrate 30th Anniversary The United Batanguenos of Southern California will celebrate its 30th Anniversary & Coronation Night at the DoubleTree Hotel-Whittier (7320 Greenleaf Ave. Whittier, CA) on Sunday, August 12. Music will be provided by The Midnight Motion Band. For other related questions please call Mylee Moncada (818) 322-9429; Cely Anuran (805) 630-3377; Rose Pascua (323) 382-1124 or Romy Elepano at (323) 498-9333.
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Philippine Chamber Singers-Los Angeles’ “Hibang sa Awit” at Walt Disney Concert Hall in LA Philippine Chamber Singers-Los Angeles (PCS-LA) invites you to a concert celebrating Original Pilipino Music, better known as OPM, at The Music Center’s Walt Disney Concert Hall on Friday, August 17 at 8 p.m. in “Hibang sa Awit” (Mad About Songs). “Hibang sa Awit” highlights the new modern classic Filipino music and the kundiman created by some of the most respected Filipino composers including Ryan Cayabyab, Willy Cruz, George Canseco, Ruben Federizon, and Robert Delgado to name a few. Very special friends including award winning jazz singer, Mon David; esteemed inspirational singer, Edward Granadosin; and a local/community gem, the Immaculate Heart of Mary Children’s Choir; will join PCS-LA as they infuse various musical styles into a treat for the whole family to hear. Tickets available at the box office or at www.musiccenter.org.
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LA County’s Center for Financial Empowerment hosts financial seminar The County of Los Angeles Center for Financial Empowerment (CFE), housed within the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs, is proud to celebrate the launch of BankOn Los Angeles County, a program designed to connect residents to safe and affordable financial products, regardless of their immigration status. In honor of the launch, the CFE will host Summer Saturdays, a free event series that will connect Los Angeles County residents to checking accounts and financial empowerment resources. The public is invited to attend the free events at the following CFE community partner locations: Saturday, August 18, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Barrio Action Youth and Family Center (4927 Huntington Dr. #200, Los Angeles, CA 90032). The CFE and BankOn financial institution partners will help consumers understand the benefits of banking and start the process of opening a checking account. Attendees can also learn about credit, how to save for college and get first-time home buying tips at financial education workshops while enjoying free ice cream!
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4th annual Kultura Festival: Filipino-American Food & Arts Festival in Chicago Kultura Festival, the Midwest’s premier Filipino-American food and arts event, will be held this year on Sunday, August 19 at Logan Square’s Emporium Arcade Bar (2363 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago) from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Kultura Festival is in its fourth year, and is produced by food media and events group, Filipino Kitchen. Carefully curated to appeal to those who personally identify with Filipino culture and the merely curious or uninitiated, Kultura Festival aims to highlight the best in Filipino-American food and arts in Chicago and the Midwest. Early bird tickets for general adult admission will go on sale at a discounted rate of $10 starting Monday, April 23. Only 100 discounted general admission adult tickets will be available for the Early Bird Special. Early bird tickets will be available for one week, or until supplies last. Early bird tickets to Kultura Festival for students, senior citizens, and children between six and 11 years of age will also be available for sale for $5. Children aged five or younger are admitted free at Kultura. To buy Early Bird Kultura Festival tickets, click https://ti.to/filipinokitchen/kultura2018. Stay tuned for more details on chefs, performers and all things Kultura Festival Chicago! For more information, please visit www.kulturachicago.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
San Mateo County can do more to protect residents in multiunit housing from secondhand smoke REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – Eighty-two percent of residents in San Mateo County’s multiunit households are protected from the dangers of exposure to secondhand smoke in their homes through ordinances passed in their jurisdictions. Yet it is difficult to determine their effectiveness and the impact these ordinances have made because of limited data collection and analysis. As a result, making decisions on how best to ensure compliance with the ordinances can be challenging, according to the San Mateo County Civil Grand Jury in its report, “Smoke-Free Multiunit Housing: No Ifs, Ands, or Butts.� The U.S. Surgeon General has confirmed that even occasional exposure to secondhand smoke is harmful, and that low levels of secondhand tobacco smoke lead to impairment of
the lining of the blood vessels, which, in turn, can lead to heart attacks and stroke. Approximately one in four non-smoking Americans are subjected to secondhand smoke, including more than one in three who live in rental housing. Most San Mateo County jurisdictions have limited this dangerous exposure by passing ordinances prohibiting smoking in multiunit housing. The Grand Jury investigation found that measuring the impact of these ordinances is difficult due to inadequate data collection and analysis. Moreover, many of these jurisdictions have not sufficiently educated residents about their rights and obligations under these ordinances. When their ordinances were adopted, most of these jurisdictions conducted limited public outreach to residents, and even now, many jurisdic-
tions’ online resources detailing tenants’ rights and methods of reporting smoking violations are difficult to access. “The Grand Jury recommends that San Mateo county jurisdictions with ordinances prohibiting smoking in multiunit housing do more to ensure residents know of their rights and responsibilities,� said Richard Edminster, Grand Jury Foreperson. The Grand Jury also recommends that those cities without smoking ordinances for multiunit housing hold public hearings to evaluate issues and hear residents’ views on adopting such restrictions. The full report is available on San Mateo County Court/Grand Jury website at: http://www.sanmateocourt.org/documents/grand_ jury/2017/smoke_free.pdf.
San Bruno National Night Out
THE City of San Bruno will host National Night Out on Tuesday, August 7, 2018 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. A kick-off event will be held at Grundy Park for San Bruno residents who want to participate. If you if would like to learn more about National Night Out or about initiating a neighborhood watch group in your neighborhood, please contact San Bruno Police Department Support Services Officer Sherry Campbell at (650) 616-7129 or by email at scampbell@sanbruno.ca.gov.
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The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - August 3, 2018
Working while disabled — Social Security can help WHILE it may be best known for retirement, Social Security is also here to help you get back to work if you are disabled. For millions of people, work isn’t just a source of income, it’s a vital part of who they are — it gives them purpose and pride — it’s a connection to community. If you’re getting Social Security disability benefits, we have good news for you. Social Security’s work incentives and Ticket to Work programs can help you if you’re interested in working. Special rules make it possible for people receiving Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to work and still receive monthly payments. The Ticket to Work program may help you if you’d like to work. You can receive: • Free vocational rehabilitation; • Training; • Job referrals; and • Other employment support. You can read more about working while collecting disability benefits at www.socialsecurity. gov/work. Work incentives include: • Continued cash benefits for a time while you work; • Continued Medicare or
Medicaid while you work; and • Help with education, training, and rehabilitation to start a new line of work. If you’re receiving Social Security disability benefits or SSI, let us know right away when you start or stop working, or if any other change occurs that could affect your benefits. If you returned to work, but you can’t continue working because of your medical condition, your benefits can start again — you may not have to file a new application.
You can read more about the Ticket to Work program in the publication titled “Working While Disabled: How We Can Help� at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/EN05-10095.pdf. Part of securing today and tomorrow is giving you the tools to create a fulfilling life. Getting back to work might be part of that. We’re here with a ticket to a secure tomorrow. (By Eric Phillips, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Sacramento, CA)
Oxygen, dandruff, female tampons...
From Page SF7 ics, but at a later stage lost the skin of their palms and soles, the face and even the tongue. Mortality rate for TSS is about 2 or 3 percent. Tampons should be changed 3 to 4 times a day, even if not fully stained to tional Airlines� and TripAdvisor ing and Airbus aircraft to over prevent TSS. This makes it a bit 60 international destinations awarded it top spots in five too expensive. A time-proven throughout Asia, Oceania, Eucategories in its annual Travelers’ Choice Awards for Airlines. rope and North America where safer alternative is the use of sanitary pads. gateways are Chicago, HouThe carrier was established in Does owning a pet help ston, Los Angeles, New York, 1989 as Taiwan’s first privately owned international airline. It is San Francisco, Seattle, Toronto pre-menopausal women? Yes, this is no fable. It has part of the respected Evergreen and Vancouver. Travelers can been shown that pre-menolearn more about EVA and d Group and a sister company schedule, book and buy tickets pausal women who owned a to global container-shipping pet they could communicate at www.evaair.com. leader Evergreen Line. It flies (Advertising supplement) with (like a dog or a cat), and a fleet of more than 70 Boe-
EVA certified as a SKYTRAX...
From Page SF8 Class in Asia,� “Best Premium Economy Class in Asia� and “Travelers’ Choice Economy Class in Asia.� EVA Air EVA Air is a Star Alliance member and among only 10 SKYTRAX-rated 5-Star airlines worldwide. Readers voted it one of Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best “Top 10 Interna-
people & events
who kept them company, went through this change in their life and physiology with much less pain and agony. The constant companionship and love the pets gave these suffering women provided the much needed love, sense of loyalty and security during this formidable stage in their life. For one thing, these pets do not complain and do not answer back. They give their love totally, genuinely and unconditionally. Because of these attributes, pets are considered by some people as “better than some friends and family members.�
*** 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; comments questions: scalpelpen@ gmail.com. (Advertising Supplement)
Pilgrimage to Some of ITALY’s Highlights and Miracles of the Eucharist 6SLULWXDO 'LUHFWRU 5(9 -2(/ %8*$6 ĹĄ 1RYHPEHU WR 1RYHPEHU 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 0RQ Ĺ&#x; 86$ 520( 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 7XHV Ĺ&#x; 5RPH Upon our arrival in Rome, our Tour Escort will welcome us to Italy. Rome is the heart, home and the spiritual capital of over one billion Catholics all over the world. After a short panoramic orientation of this Eternal City to us Roman Catholics, we will have our dinner and overnight rest at this great ancient City. DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN ROME (BB,D) 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY :HG Ĺ&#x; 5RPH 3DSDO $XGLHQFH 5RPH This morning before we continue with our tour, we will have a Papal Audience. Then after, we will visit the famous Coliseum and see the Forum, the Trevi Fountain 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 Fountain, before heading to our Hotel. DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN ROME (BB,D)
'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 7KXUV Ĺ&#x; 5RPH %DVLOLFDV We will visit the Vatican Museum this morning and the Sistine Chapel to admire the awesome masterpieces of Michaelangelo, and even ancient Greek and Roman artists. the largest church in Roman Catholicism, St. Peter’s Basilica. Holy Eucharist at ST Mary Major, Followed by visit of the Basilica. We continue to visit the rest of the major Basilicas within the walls of Rome, and St. John Lateran, 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 steps that Christ ascended to receive Pilate’s unjust condemnation. DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN ROME (BB,D) 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY )UL Ĺ&#x; 5RPH 6DQ *LRYDQQL 5RWRQGR 2018 is the 100th Anniversary of the stigmatization of St Pio. Church Will have Monthly Pastoral Program of Activities for the whole year. San Giovanni Rotondo, the home of St Padre Pio of Pietrelcina from 28 July, 1916 until his death on 23 September, 1968. Enjoy the drive going to San Giovanni, after we check in our Hotel. vWe visit the Shrines of St Padre Pio of Pietralcina as well as the places associated with him, such as the Shrine of Our Lady of Grace that contains his tomb. Here, we spend some time meditating, see his room, his confessional box and the cruciďŹ x that gave him his supernatural Crucifying stigmata, Celebrate Holy Eucharist (Hotel Gran Paradiso) DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN San Giovanni Rotondo (BB,D) 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 6DW Ĺ&#x; 6$1 *,29$11, 52721'2 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 awesome Basilica. DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN SAN GIOVANNI ROTONDO (Hotel Gran Paradiso)
'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 6XQ Ĺ&#x; 6DQ *LRYDQQL 5RWRQGR /DQFLDQR /RUHWR MASS AND BREAKFAST. We arrive at Lanciano, famous for the Miracle of the Eucharist. Near the Piazza Plebiscito, the Miracle is inside the Sanctuary of the Eucharistic Miracle. The miracle took place during the 8th century when a Basiline monk doubted the Real Presence of our Lord in the Eucharist. He found himself holding the host that had changed into Real Flesh and the Wine on the altar had changed into Real Blood. We continue our pilgrimage to the great Marian shrine of Loreto to see the famous sacred home of the most Holy Family, Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Since 1294 the holy home has been located inside the Basilica of Loreto. Celebrate Holy Eucharist in Lanciano. DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN Assisi. 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 0RQ Ĺ&#x; /RUHWR $VVLVL Today we explore the hilltop birthplace of St Francis of Assisi. In the Crypt of St Francis Basilica lies the tomb of one of the most humble and beloved Saints of all times, St. Francis of Assisi, Holy Eucharist at the Crypt of St. Francis See the Basilica of St Clare, with her incorrupt body, and the little Church of St. Damiano and its CruciďŹ x from which Jesus spoke to Francis about his mission in 1206: “Go, Francis, and rebuild my house, which as you see is falling into ruin.â€? We visit the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, located in the lower plains of Assisi, and the place where the miracle of the Eucharist of Assisi took place in 1240. The small Church of the Porziuncola is inside the Basilica itself. Pope Honorius III granted a plenary indulgence for those entering this humble Church on August 1st and 2nd every year, with Confession, reception of the Eucharist and no attachment to venial sins. (BB,D) 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 7XHV Ĺ&#x; $VVLVL 6LHQD )ORUHQFH We will spend half day in Siena. Begin in the old town center with a visit to the Basilica of San Domenico. Built in the 13th century, it is a treasure chest of the Renaissance art and dedicated to St Catherine of Siena. You will learn about the city’s history while admiring it’s cathedrals, Museum, and libraries .Also you will admire the famous piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s great medieval squares. Continue to Florence. (BB,D) We start with a guided walking tour of Florence, this fascinating city with its Piazza, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery of St. John the Baptist. Rest of the day free (BB,D) 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY :HG Ĺ&#x; )ORUHQFH 5RPH Leave Florence around 2PM Arrived Rome almost dinner time (BB.D) 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 7KXUV Ĺ&#x; 5RPH 86$ End of our wonderful Pilgrimage
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The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - August 3, 2018