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NOVEMBER 8-14, 2018
T H E F I L I P I N O –A M E R I C A N C O M M U N I T Y N E W S PA P E R
Volume 29 - No. 42 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages
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Rep. and Senator-elect Jacky Rep. Dina Titus gets re-elected Susie Lee wins District 3 seat Rosen to District 1
Democrats win Nevada’s top seats during 2018 midterm elections by CHRISTINA
M. ORIEL
AJPress
Steven Horsford succeeds in Governor-elect Steve Sisolak Incoming Attorney General Aaron Ford District 4 AJPress photos by Robert Macabagdal
USA
DATELINE A rundown on how Fil-Am candidates fared in the midterm elections FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
As the 2018 midterm elections took place on Tuesday, November 6, a number of things quickly became apparent as the counts came in. For one, voter turnout soared above previous years, especially among young voters and women. When it came to the candidates, a record breaking number of 116 women won in their respective races which included 42 being women of color. Looking at the battle for congress, Republicans retained the Senate, while Democrats
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Fil-Am pipe bomb suspect held without bail in NY
Suspect Cesar Sayoc made first appearance in Manhattan federal court after court hearing in Florida
AS results from the midterm election trickle in, several races around the country have made history, including in Nevada, which saw several top seats turn blue and will now be represented by two female Senators for the first time. Rep. Jacky Rosen took 50.8 percent of the vote for Nevada’s Senate seat, defeating incumbent Sen. Dean Heller, who received 45.4 percent, according to the Associated Press. Considered one of the contentious races in
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Plans to form task force to curb illegal drug trade by AJPRESS PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Tuesday, November 6, revealed that a move to intensify the anti-drug campaigns especially on illegal drug trade is on the works as a task force is about to be issued. “What we have is the moving forward to eradicate illegal drug trade, activate a national anti-illegal drug task force,” the president said during his lecture to the cabinet members at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room. Duterte amplified the need for a monitoring system in all entryways in the country. He said that the problem lies in the accessible docks wherein drugs could be shipped from anywhere to inside the country. “Iyan ang problema (That is the problem). There is trouble outside the pantalan (ports) because ang pantalan mismo nagpapapasok (the ports would freely let
WELCOME HOME. President Rodrigo Duterte embraces an emotional Jennifer Dalquez as the latter met with him at the Malacañang Palace on Tuesday, November 6. Dalquez returned to the Philippines after she was acquitted of murder charges and saved from death row in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Malacañang photos by Rolando Mailo
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DILG, PNP supports extension Duterte denies military takeover of BOC AJP of martial law in Mindanao by
PNP Chief Oscar Albayalde
DILG Secretary Eduardo Año Inquirer.net photos
no designation, there was no appointment, and there was never an PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo instruction for them to take over by AJPRESS Duterte on Tuesday, November 6, the functions of the employees,” personally denied that he ordered Duterte said as reported by The DEPARTMENT of Interior and Local Government the Armed Forces of the Philippines Philippine Daily Inquirer. (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Año on Tuesday, November (AFP) to take over the functions of Duterte explained that his inten6, expressed his approval of the extension of martial law Bureau of Customs (BOC) during tion was for the AFP to merely to in Mindanao as he noted that the residents under it were his lecture to the Cabinet Mem- assist BOC personnel as he had in favor. bers at the Aguinaldo State Dining placed heads of offices and sec“Based on the feedback of the people of Mindanao, I Room. tions within the bureau on floating would rather opt for another extension,” he told reporters “When I called in the Army, status. in a chance interview as reported by The Manila Times. the Bureau of Customs, there was u PAGE A2 Año justified his approval on the third extension of the military rule by claiming that no abuse by the police nor the military transpired or was ever recorded during the implementation of martial law in Mindanao. “For all law-abiding citizens, they don’t really feel the martial law but for the lawless elements, for the private
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Manny Pacquiao scores a knockout at Oxford by JOAQUIN
HENSON Philstar.com
Sen. Manny Pacquiao delivered an inspiring speech before the Oxford Union, the university’s prestigious debating society, then spoke in a one-on-one interview on stage at a packed auditorium on the school campus on Monday, November 5. Photo from Instagram/@jinkeepacquiao
to like each other, then we started to love each other.” Rosen, a former computer programmer and synagogue president, has represented the Silver State’s 3rd congressional district since 2017 and immediately joined the Senate race, tying her opponent to Trump and slamming the senator’s attempts to repeal the Affordable Care Act. “Plenty of people had their doubts that this victory would be ours tonight. But this is the story of this election cycle. Women stepping
Duterte intensifies illegal drug campaign
A FEDERAL judge on Tuesday, Nov. 6 has ordered the man suspected of sending more than a dozen explosives to high-profile Democrats to be held without bail in his first appearance in New York federal court. Cesar Sayoc, Jr., who is half-Filipino and half-Italian, was transported from Florida to New York on Monday and made a brief appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert Lehrburger.
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the country and one of the most expensive in state history, Heller was the only Republican up for reelection in a state Hillary Clinton won in 2016. In weeks leading up to the election, President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, and Trump’s daughter and senior advisor Ivanka Trump campaigned for Heller. “We weren’t friends. I didn’t like him and he didn’t like me,” Trump said of his initial relationship with Heller. “And as we fought and fought and fought, believe it or not, we started to respect each other, then we started
WORLD BOXING ASSOCIATION (WBO) welterweight champion Sen. Manny Pacquiao delivered an inspiring speech before the Oxford Union, the university’s prestigious debating society, then spoke from the heart in a one-on-one interview on stage at a packed auditorium on the school campus late Monday afternoon. Pacquiao was invited to join the ranks of several distinguished speakers in the past by Oxford Union president Stephen Horvath and society secretary Tom Brown. The Union was established in 1823 and has welcomed a wide range of guest
speakers including Sir Winston Churchill, Robert Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, Mother Teresa, Benazir Bhutto, Albert Einstein and Margaret Thatcher. From the sporting world, among the past visitors were George Foreman, David Haye, Vitali Klitschko, Chris Eubank, Boris Becker, Diego Maradona and Roger Bannister. It appeared that Pacquiao scored a knockout in his visit to the English university, coming across as a sincere and humble person with no pretenses and a genuine desire to uplift humanity. Curiously, the only qualified comments on Pacquiao’s visit came from the university’s
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From The FronT Page
A rundown on how Fil-Am candidates fared... PAGE A1 won control of the House. While a number of races have yet to be determined, results have come in for the nation’s Fil-Am candidates which included six who ran for Congress. Here’s a rundown on how the candidates did. Fil-Ams take losses in Congress, as Ortiz-Jones fights on in very close race Of the 435 seats that were up for
grabs in the House of Representatives, six were being eyed by Fil-Am candidates TJ Cox (CA-21), Christina Osmeña (CA-14), Kenneth Mejia (CA-34), Gina Ortiz-Jones (TX-23), Jennifer Mijares-Zimmerman (FL01), and Bobby Scott (VA-03). Cox, who received an endorsement by former U.S. President Barack Obama, ran to represent California’s 21st Congressional District, which covers much of Central
Filipina-American Jennifer Zimmerman ran as the Democratic candidate for Florida’s 1st congressional district and faced incumbent Rep. Matt Gaetz.
COURT APPEARANCE. Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima, under heavy guard, arrives at the designated Court of the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City on Tuesday, November 6 to attend the resumption of hearing on the trumped-up drug charges filed before the Muntinlupa RTC Branch 206. The hearing lasted about nine minutes only after Judge Lorna Navarro-Domingo presented an Order announcing that she is inhibiting herself from hearing the case. Senate photo
Democrats win Nevada’s top... Filipina-American Jennifer Zimmerman is the Democratic candidate for Florida’s 1st congressional district and faced incumbent Rep. Matt Gaetz.
California’s San Joaquin Valley, but was narrowly defeated by Republican incumbent David Valadao (54 percent to 46 percent). Vying for a congressional seat in California’s 14th Congressional District which covers most of San Mateo County, was Republican Cristina Osmeña whose greatgrandfather, Sergio Osmeña, was the second president of the Philippines. Running against Democrat Jackie Speier, Osmeña ended up with the lesser votes with 23.6 percent compared to Speier’s 76.4 percent. Also running in California was 27-year-old Los Angeles resident Kenneth Mejia who ran under the Green Party in hopes of representing California’s 34th Congressional District which includes Chinatown and Downtown Los Angeles. Tuesday’s vote revealed Rep. Jimmy Gomez of the Democratic Party to have won his reelection by taking 74.2 percent of the votes compared to Mejia’s 25.8 percent. (Rae Ann Varona and Joseph Peralta/AJPress)
PAGE A1 up to lead to take back our country, and to take back the agenda in Washington,” Rosen said in her victory speech on Tuesday night. The freshman congresswoman now joins Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto in the Senate. The election also marked another feat in the state’s history with its first female-majority Congressional delegation. Other top spots down went to the Democrats as well. For the first time in two decades, Nevada will have a Democratic governor as Clark County Commission Chair Steve Sisolak garnered 49.5 percent of the vote, beating Republican attorney general Adam Laxalt. “Right here in Nevada, we can set the standard for what bet-
ter, more compassionate, more decent politics can look like in this country,” Sisolak said in his speech. “And right here in Nevada, we’re going to prove that we won’t be divided by partisan politics in Washington. We won’t be divided by north or south, rural or urban.” Other Democratic gains include Kate Marshall for lieutenant governor, Aaron Ford for attorney general, Zach Conine for treasurer, and Catherine Byrne for controller. Republicans Barbara Cegavske retained the secretary of state seat. For House races, Democrats Rep. Dina Titus (District 1), Susie Lee (District 3) and Steven Horsford (District 4) claimed victory. Overall voter turnout was 62.1
(969,655 voters) percent statewide, according to the Nevada Secretary of State’s numbers on Wednesday. As the fastest-growing minority group in Nevada, Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) comprise about 10 percent of Nevada’s electorate. Last month, Democratic candidates held campaign events with the Filipino-American community in Clark County, such as a kamayan feast and canvassing at Seafood City. “The growing political engagement in Southern Nevada’s AAPI community is impressive,” Sisolak previously told the Asian Journal. Similar to 2016, several reports stated that the AAPI population would be the swing vote for many of the state’s races. n
Duterte denies military takeover... PAGE A1
“Ang ginawa ko (what I did) is just really to order them on floating status. But that was a particular order directed for chiefs of offices and section chiefs. Iyong mga assistant nila ang magtatrabaho (Their assistants will work on it),” Duterte stressed. Earlier, in his speech during the thanksgiving party of former Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano in Davao City, Duterte announced that the military would monitor the bureau while all of its employees were on floating status. “It will be a takeover of the Armed Forces in the matter of operating, in the meantime, while we are sorting out how to effectively meet the challenges of corruption in this country,” he said. Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo clarified that the members of the military will be deployed in the BOC only to “make their presence felt.” Panelo likened the situation to the act of putting a security guard on duty to ensure that the rules would be followed. “Initially they would be there making their presence felt and they will assist. The mere pres-
Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero officially assumes as Customs commissioner. Photo courtesy of BOC
ence of these people there would do something right, hopefully, will intimidate those corrupt people there. [Also, it will be] to assist them,” Panelo said as reported by The Manila Times. The presidential spokesperson further noted that the BOC is exhibiting a state of lawlessness that deems a military intervention necessary in accordance with the Constitution. “Now the lawless violence would
certainly refer to what is happening in BOC. There is a state of lawlessness there. If you can bring in hundreds of kilos of drugs, there must be some grave wrong in that area. And there is state of lawlessness there, it violates the law, it violates the Constitution,” Panelo said. Duterte’s directive was heavily criticized by lawmakers who claimed that it was unconstitutional and contrary to the state policy of civilian supremacy. n
Duterte intensifies illegal... PAGE A1 them in),” Duterte said. The president also posits the other hazardous and illegal materials that could be shipped inside the country if the government fails to resolve such a situation. “Ang ating pantalan is a big gap (Our port is a big gap). Not only am I worried about drugs but it is really so big as to accommodate all dangerous things — chemicals and all,” he noted as reported by the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO). “It could ship a bomb there, TNT, and for all you know, nobody really cares or because he does not know or because there
is somebody bribing him to have the cargo just slip by. We’d never know how much corruption and to what extent would be the dimension of the danger of this country,” he added. Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Bureau of Customs (BOC), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and other agencies of the government are ordered to aid in the said task force. “It can provide a necessary personal compliment to carry out the directive of the president to the Bureau of Customs to block the flow of illegal drugs in this country,” Duterte said.
The president also answered the critics who said that his move to militarize Customs was unconstitutional. He explained how it was within legal basis since he did not designate anyone on a specific position. “Now, sabi nila na (they say that) it violates the constitution and the operative words there are the prohibition of appointment or designation. When I called in the Army to help the Bureau of Customs, there was no designation, there was no appointment, and there was never an instruction for them to take over the functions of the employee,” the president explained. n
President Rodrigo Duterte presides over the 31st Cabinet Meeting at the Malacañang Palace on Tuesday, November 6. Malacañang photo by Rolando Mailo
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Feds cracking down on DMV employees Trump imposes quota on asylum claims at the border giving out fake licenses and permits by KLARIZE
MEDENILLA AJPress
by RAE
ANN VARONA
AJPress
While the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has had criminal cases fi led against it before, federal authorities have most recently been putting a heavier focus cracking down on its workers caught issuing fraudulent driver’s licenses and permits. Federal officials say that investigators from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security have also been joining in on the work of undercover agents. Cases on the department notoriously known for long lines have shown up in the last number of years, but the numbers saw a stark uptick last year with at least 20 more cases having been filed by prosecutors since. In June of this year, a federal jury found a former Salinas DMV employee, Robert Turchin, guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit bribery and identity fraud, and three counts of identity fraud. “This prosecution of a California state employee for bribery resulting in grave danger to public safety is very troubling,”
said U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott during the trial. “It is alarming to think that unqualified persons were licensed to operate big rigs and buses on our public roadways. We will continue to do everything we can to root out public corruption at any level, and hold those in positions of trust accountable for their greed.” A month later, Sarah Laray Sandoval, a former West Sacramento DMV employee, was sentenced to three years and three months in prison after she plead guilty to three counts of bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. Along with her co-defendant Anthony Zamarron, authorities said their schemes resulted in a loss over $77,000, and involved over 100 victims. The Sacramento Bee reported of one of defendant from a case last year being the daughter of a DMV deputy chief of investigations and enforcement. Kari Scattaglia and Lisa Terraciano—both former DMV employees in the Los Angeles area— pleaded guilty last November to charges regarding their role in allowing numerous California
driver’s license applicants to pay their way out of taking written and behind-the-wheel exams, according to federal court documents. Scattaglia was a licensing registration examiner and manager in Arleta and Granada Hills, while Terraciano worked as a motor vehicle representative in Winnetka. Court documents showed Scattaglia as being responsible for issuing at least 68 fake licenses and permits. “The DMV Investigations Division conducts a thorough investigation of every complaint filed and takes action when an employee is found to be committing workplace fraud,” reads a statement obtained by Redding’s local ABC 7 station KRCR. Armando Botello of the DMV’s Office of Public Affairs continued, “These employees are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and works closely with U.S. Attorney offices statewide. The DMV is responsible for initiating the cases involving all 40 DMV employees, brokers, driver school owners/operators that have been referred to the federal Eastern District since 2011.” ■
Manny Pacquiao scores a knockout... PAGE A1 Philippine society. The English newspaper Daily Mail said in an on-line report, that the Philippine society issued a statement that Pacquiao’s appearance on campus was no validation of some of his political views. English sports media picked up quotes from Pacquiao who was asked about his boxing career after delivering his speech. Pacquiao said he’s booked to face Adrien Broner in January and the rematch with Floyd Mayweather, Jr. is a possibility for the future. “There is a big possibility because Floyd is coming back to boxing,” said Pacquiao, quoted by Sky Sports. “He’s fighting in December and I’m fighting in January. So a big possibility that next year, we will discuss a rematch. My thinking is to have a rematch and make (it) clear … who will win because in the last fight we had, it wasn’t clear who won because he didn’t throw a lot of punches and he won (the deci-
sion). I had a shoulder injury but this time, if this rematch happens, there will be no excuses, no alibis.” In his speech, Pacquiao admitted being intimidated in following in the footsteps of previous Union speakers. But he dared to stand before his audience “armed with just the equivalent of a sixth form education, an undisguised respect for what your group and your university represent and a pretty fair left hook … if this give-and-take were a tale of the tape, I would be a respectful underdog but be careful, I’m not that easy to floor.” Pacquiao related how he emerged from a life of poverty to become a world boxing champion and legislator. He called it a lesson in what can be achieved if you ignore the odds against you, if you are determined and never quit. “In crafting effective laws, there is no better guide than the pulse of the masses,” he said. “I may not have financial acuity. I
may not be historically fluent. I may not even be socially adept. But I am philosophically rooted in my personal adversities which morally bind me to the general struggle of our people. I am a fighter not just because it is my profession. I was a fighter long before I first set foot in a boxing ring. All my life, I have fought to live. Every single day in my youth, I fought for survival.” Pacquiao said his life story is the best illustration that miracles happen and dreams come true. “Being poor does not mean one must die poor,” he said. “Hard work and persistence will set you free from the shackles of poverty. But it is faith that will take you to the very top. Never lose faith in what you can do as a human being. Believe in the loyalty of family and believe in the Almighty.” He ended his speech with a challenge to the Union, saying “you, with your education, determination and faith, you can change the world.” ■
On Thursday, Nov. 1, President Donald Trump doubled down on his iron fist immigration proposals by announcing plans to call for new limits on asylum requests at the U.S.-Mexico border. In the same week that he announced his plans to eviscerate birthright citizenship, the president gave a speech from the White House announcing that he would sign an executive order “next week” designed to restrict asylum rules amid the yearly trek of Central American migrants heading to the border to flee violence and abuse in their native countries. In Thursday’s address from the White House, the president meandered on about the perceived national security risks that come with welcoming the thousands of asylum-seekers at the border, mirroring much of the immigration rhetoric he’s touted since his presidential campaign. Generally, the U.S. recognizes the right of asylum pursuant to international and federal law which grants asylum to people who justifiably fears persecution in their home country on the grounds of race, religion, nationality, political opinion (i.e. opposition to a political party) or particular social group. Applicants for asylum must also reason that the government is either involved in said persecution or unable to control the persecution of a private entity. Every year a caravan of Central American migrants — most of whom are women and children are from Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador — travel through Mexico en route to the U.S. border, traveling in thousands for protection; migrants are often kidnapped by drug and human traffickers on their journeys to the U.S. As of press time, the migrant caravan continues to press on toward the border and have crossed through the southern Mexican state of Chiapas. It’s unclear how the administration plans to carry out the forthcoming executive order on, but it has already dispatched U.S. troops to the border to buttress border patrol. On Friday, Nov. 2, the president backtracked from a suggestion that the more than 5,000 troops would be allowed to fire freely on migrants who throw rocks at them but said that rock-
President Donald Trump delivers remarks on immigration on Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018, in the Roosevelt Room of the White House. White House photo by Joyce N. Boghosian
throwers would be arrested. “They won’t have to fire. What I don’t want is I don’t want these people throwing rocks,” the president told reporters outside the White House. “If they do that with us, they’re going to be arrested for a long time.” On Thursday, Trump suggested that he would authorize the use of military force on caravaners if they throw rocks at them as some did at the Mexican military and police force when they reached Mexico. Trump said that he hopes that the administration won’t resort to military action, but said if migrants attack that “we’re not going to put up with that. If they want to throw rocks at our military, our military fights back.” His reasoning behind the possible use of firearms on caravaners by the military is “because there’s not much difference when you get hit in the face with a rock,” later adding, “When they throw rocks like they did at the Mexico military and police, I say [to the military], consider it a rifle.” Per the regulations of the Defense Department, “deadly force is justified only when there is a reasonable belief that the subject of such force poses an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm to a person.” Pentagon spokesman Lt. Col. Jamie Davis said after Trump’s remarks that the military “will not discuss hypothetical situations or specific measures” and emphasized that the military forces “are in support of” the Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection. Thursday’s address comes at the heels of his controversial announcement of ending birthright citizenship by way of, once again, executive order, a proposal panned by Democrats and Republicans alike.
As previously reported by the Asian Journal, House Speaker Paul Ryan refuted the president’s claim that he can end birthright citizenship (wherein a U.S.-born child of undocumented parents is automatically a U.S. citizen) by saying Trump “obviously” doesn’t have the power to end a law supported by the Constitution. Both announcements — which, unlike most of the president’s statements, sparked outrage — occurred days before the historic midterm election where the Republican-majority Congress could flip blue, which has been a thesis for Democrats since the 2016 election. Many interpreted these announcements as a last-ditch effort to pander to GOP voters who respond well to fearmongering and consider immigration to be an important issue. (Polling data from RealClearPolitics, which aggregated multiple results from prominent pollsters, said that Democrat candidates running for all offices are averaging a 7.5point lead against Republican candidates.) This week, the president tweeted a campaign ad that featured an undocumented Mexican immigrant who murdered two California sheriff’s deputies in 2014 and laughed about it in court, to which the ad states, “Democrats let him into our country.” Democrats and Republicans alike lambasted the ad for demonizing immigrants by exploiting the stereotype that all undocumented immigrants of color are violent. “It’s all about revving up the base, using fear to stimulate people to come out at the polls,” Sen. Bob Corker (R-Tennessee), who has voted with Trump on a number of issues, told The Tennessean on Thursday after Trump’s White House address. ■
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Respect rights of foreigners, PH gov’t told by Janvic
mateo Philstar.com
Photo from Instagram/@donairenonito
Donaire rules WBA bantamweight by Josef
Ramos ManilaTimes.net
NONITO “The Filipino Flash” Donaire Jr. forced Ryan Burnett to retire in the fifth round after suffering a back injury on Saturday, November 3, and snatched the World Boxing Association (WBA) bantamweight title via technical knockout (TKO). The victory of Donaire Jr. in the quarterfinals of the World Boxing Super Series (WBSS) at the SSE Hydro in Glasgow, Scotland also brought him to the semifinals where he will face reigning World Boxing Organization (WBO) bantamweight titleholder Zolani Tete of South Africa in a unification fight in 2019. Burnett, 26, connected with a lot of combinations in the first two rounds, but Donaire Jr. re-
gained his rhythm, as he hit his opponent with accurate punches until the early part of the fourth round, before the 26-year-old Irish fighter threw a right hand punch that hurt his back with less than a minute left. Despite being hurt, Burnett survived the fourth round. Referee Howard Foster stopped the fight before the start of the fifth round and declared Donaire Jr. as the winner by TKO. “A win is a win and it wasn’t the way I would like to win, but I give it to (Ryan) Burnett. He was an amazing fighter,” said Donaire Jr. during a post fight interview, which WBSS posted on social media. “He (Burnett) was fast, strong and caught me with some good punches,” he added. “I came into this fight as the bigger guy and my coaches snapped me out of it and
2017 to 5.92 from January to September 2018. He also noted that no human rights violations nor abuses happened during the imposition of martial law. “There’s no oppression there. There is no curtailing of freedom, nothing,” Albayalde said. A week ago, the Executive Committee of the National Security Council was taking into account whether to extend or lift the implemented martial law in Mindanao. “Taking into account the lingering terrorist and communist threats, the [Executive Committee of the National Security Council] committed to put into study the possible lifting or further extension of martial law,” Palace spokesperson Salvador Panelo said.
told me to box.” At 35-year-old, Donaire (39-5 win-loss record with 25 knockouts) said that age was “nothing but a number” and boasted, “I still have that speed.” Paramedics attended to Burnett’s injuries as he was carried out of the ring. Donaire, a former four-division world champion, also expressed concern for the fallen boxer as he went to his corner after the bout. Burnett suffered his first defeat and now carried a 19-1 win-loss record with nine knockouts. Donaire joins the Elite circle of by Rae ann vaRona Filipino world boxing champions AJPress headed by WBA welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao, InterTHE trial over the issue of whethnational Boxing Federation super er people will be asked about their flyweight titleholder Jerwin Ancajas and WBO minimum weight citizenship in the upcoming 2020 census began Monday, November champion Vic Saludar. n 5, at a federal court in New York City. Advocates pushing for an accurate count maintained that the question will turn out a “systematAfter the siege of Marawi City ic undercount” of immigrants who brought by the Maute terrorist may refrain from responding out group, Philippine President Ro- of fear data would be used against drigo Duterte decided to place them. The addition of the citizenship the entire Mindanao island group under martial law. Initially, it was a question was announced last 60-day period of military rule that March by U.S. Commerce Secrewas further extended until Dec. tary Wilbur Ross, who in an eight31, 2017. It was then extended to page memo said that the question another year to police the threats on citizenship would help adminisof extremist terrorist groups in ter the Voting Rights Act (VRA) of 1965 which is supposed to prevent Mindanao. Duterte earlier claimed that the voter discrimination against of miimplementation of the military rule norities. The question though, has not in the island lessened criminality” in the region. However, there were been included in the decennial accounts that prove otherwise, census since the VRA was passed such as the deadly bomb attacks into law, or in the past 70 years in that occurred in Isulan in Sultan total. The Trump administration has Kudarat and Lamitan City, Basiadded that the Constitution allows lan. n the government to decide how the census should be conducted, thus making the question addition lawful.
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rights conventions it has accepted in the interest of upholding the dignity of all,” De Guia said in her statement on Monday. She previously said that there should be a “balance between protecting the human rights of all and the interest of the nation.” CHR chairman Chito Gascon earlier said they would review the immigration guidelines banning foreigners from taking part in protests to determine if such restriction violates their freedom to peacefully assemble. n
DAYS after the departure of Australian missionary Patricia Fox, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is reiterating its call on the government to respect the rights of all people, including foreigners. CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia on Monday, November 5, also expressed gratitude to Fox, who left last weekend following the expiration of her temporary visitor visa. “As a fellow human rights defender, we recognize with gratitude the dedication of Sister Patricia Fox to the human rights cause in the Philippines, especially for our farmers, laborers and the urban poor,” said De Guia. “Founded on the universality of human rights, being a foreign national did not prevent her from dedicating almost three decades of her life addressing, within her means, an array of injustices and violations against the rights of the most vulnerable and marginalized in our country,” she added. The Duterte administration had moved for the nun’s deportation, claiming she has violated restric- CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia on Monday, November 5, also expressed gratitude to tions on foreign nationals from Fox, who left last weekend following the expiration of her temporary visitor visa. Philstar.com photo by Boy Santos participating in political events.
Trial begins over citizenship question on 2020 Census
DILG, PNP supports extension of... PAGE A1 armed groups, for the terrorists, they are all scared of the martial law,” Año said. Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Oscar Albayalde also supported the extension of military rule in the entire area, claiming that it would be better especially with the midterm elections coming up. “If ever that they will ask for the agency’s position, we will support the extension especially with the incoming elections. It’s better,” Albayalde said. The police chief stated that the peace and order in Mindanao had improved. Figures showed that the average monthly crime incident in Mindanao decreased from 8.79 in
Fox was accused of taking part in a rally supporting laborers in Davao City. The CHR said the move to deport Fox violated her right to due process, noting that the Bureau of Immigration arbitrarily forfeited Fox’s missionary visa last April after she was invited and taken into custody without proper charges. “The commission continues to remind the government of its human rights obligations to all persons in the country, Filipino or otherwise, in line with the human
Advocates against the question—including the states of New York, Illinois, Iowa, and Virginia; and cities like New York and Philadelphia—maintained that the question would discourage a significant amount of people from participating in the census, thus making it possible for certain communities to be misrepresented. “These well-documented risks of adding a person-by-person citizenship demand to the decennial census are heightened in the current political climate because of President Trump’s anti-immigrant rhetoric and this Administration’s pattern of policies and actions that target immigrant communities,” wrote the lawsuit plaintiffs. Duke University political scientist Dr. Sunshine Hillygus on Monday, testified for the advocates by saying that the citizenship question “will lead to systematic undercount of Hispanic and non-citizen households” which is an issue advocates for an accurate count have already been addressing. “A citizenship question is going to make conducting the census a heck of a lot more difficult,” said Dr. Hillygus. The decennial count not only looks for population changes and other information about who
makes up the United States—citizens and non-citizens alike—but more importantly, uses the derived data to address the nation’s needs like determining how seats in Congress are set, and how funding allocations for certain programs are made. Over $600 billion is allocated through federal programs based on census data. Among the many programs dependent on the census are those regarding education, assistance for veterans, hospitals, and transportation. Dr. Hillygus referred to recent reports showing how the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement tactics have led some eligible immigrants from participating in social programs. She also pointed to a recent Pew Research Center report that showed a majority of Latinos reporting fear that they, or a family member of close friend could be deported. The trial commenced Monday after the U.S. Supreme Court last Friday, declined the Trump administration’s requests to postpone it. The case which is led by New York Attorney General Barbara Underwood and is to be decided by federal Judge Jesse Furman, will most likely be appealed to the Supreme Court. n
Gymnast Carlos Yulo makes history for PH by Romy
maRiñas ManilaTimes.net
ships in Doha, Qatar, when he won the bronze medal in the men’s floor exercises, becomFILIPINO gymnast Carlos Yulo ing the first Filipino and the first made history on Friday at the Southeast Asian athlete to make World Gymnastics Champion- it to the podium in any individual apparatus in the 48 editions of the biennial tournament, which was livestreamed on the channel of the Federation Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) or the International Gymnastics Federation. Yulo tallied 14.600 points to rank third behind Artur Dalaloyan of Russia (14.900 points) and Kenzo Shirai of Japan (14.866 points) in the nine-man field. The 18-year-old Filipino gymnast, who trains in Japan under a Japanese coach, seemed a little nervous as he was about to end his routine at the Aspire Dome in Qatari capital, glancing at the scoreboard and apparently calculating the score he had to make to seal his date with history. But his performance seemed already a winner for Shirai, who Carlos Edriel Yulo Philstar.com photo by Joey Mendoza applauded at the sidelines as his
bedimpled Filipino rival — the shortest among the nine competitors — nailed his landing. Yulo’s finish visibly broke the heart of the American Yul Moldauer, who was running third and up for the bronze medal before the Filipino tumbled and bounced on the floor in his first stint as a senior gymnast. The medalists and Moldauer (14.566 points) were followed by Artem Dolgopyat (Israel, also 14.566 points), Nikita Nagornyy (Russia, 14.500 points), Samuel Mikulak (United States, 14.233 points), Kazuma Kaya (Japan, 14.100 points) and Ahmet Onder (Turkey, 13.833 points). Yulo’s showing in Doha must have made up for his forgettable appearance at the Jakarta and Palembang Asian Games in Indonesia last August and September. He reportedly is eyeing the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo where he could possibly rewrite local and Southeast Asian gymnastics history. n
Fil-Am pipe bomb suspect held... PAGE A1 Assistant U.S. Attorney Jane Kim referred to Sayoc as “a serious risk of danger to the public and a flight risk.” Sayoc wore a navy blue prison uniform over a beige T-shirt and conferred with his assigned counsel, public defender Sarah Jane Baumgartel. He did not wear handcuffs or shackles and answered, “yes, sir” to Lehrburger’s routine questions. The defense did not challenge the federal government’s denial of bail. Prior to his transport to New York, he appeared before a federal judge in Florida on Monday, Oct. 29. The 56-year-old faces five criminal counts: interstate transport of explosives, mailing of explosives, threats against former presidents, making threatening interstate communications and assault of current or former government officials. He allegedly mailed at least 15 pipe bombs to known critics of President Donald Trump, including high profile Democrats like Barack Obama and Bill and Hillary Clinton as well as news organizations like CNN and prominent
Democrat donor George Soros. After he was identified, it was revealed that Sayoc was a regular attendee of Trump rallies. A Twitter account believed to be run by Sayoc expressed allegiance to Trump as well as harassment towards other accounts who criticized the president. On the day he was arrested, federal officials uncovered a van allegedly belonging to Sayoc that was adorned with pro-Trump stickers and posters as well as incendiary messages towards Clinton, Obama, CNN and other parties Trump has repeatedly attacked. If convicted, he’ll serve up to 48 years in prison. As previously reported by the Asian Journal, Sayoc had compiled a list of about 100 targets and had prepared the list before he was first arrested on Friday, Oct. 26. Federal officials have not publicly released the names on the list but have been privately contacting those listed. In addition to Obama, Clinton and Soros, Sayoc had allegedly mailed pipe bombs to former Vice President Joe Biden; former Attorney General Eric Holder;
Cesar Sayoc Jr., the suspect who mailed the bombs to various Democratic officials last week. Photo courtesy of the Broward County Sheriff
Democratic Sens. Cory Booker of New Jersey and Kamala Harris of California; Rep. Maxine Waters of California and actor Robert DeNiro. None of the explosives that were mailed detonated and did not injure anybody, according to officials. Sayoc has been ordered to return to court next Monday, Nov. 12. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)
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Day 2 - Paris, France at the Eiffel Tower grounds with the group
Day 4 - Nevers, France At St. Gildard convent with Perla Sagge, Jocelyn Ahmed, Lulu Tolentino, Rose Day 5 - Avila, Spain. The group with St. John of the Cross statue. Gardoce, Viv Noche, Zeny Gardoce, Tess Perez, Al Noche, Roger Oriel
Day 5 - In Avila, Spain. photo taken in front of St Teresa of Avila church with the ladiies. The church was built on the house in which Day 5 - Waiting to board our bus in Nevers, France with Roger Oriel, Coree Bersamina, Day 5 - Avila, Spain In front of St. Teresa of Avila church with the St. Teresa of Avila was born. Perla Sagge,Jocelyn Ahmed, Lulu Tolentino, Kathy, Rose Gardoce,Zeny Gardoce, Viv gentlemen Noche, Noelia Wass, Al Noche, Tess Perez, Emmie, Louie Nafarete Palacpac
Day 5 - at St. Teresa of Avila church and convent with the group and Rev. John
Day 5 - St. Teresa of Avila church and convent with the pilgrims, our guide Cristina and with our Spiritual Director, Rev. John Duy Nguyen
Day 6- Party-Le-Monia, France.l The group in front of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Day 8- Lourdes, France . In front of the Basilica of Notre Dame. Toured the Romanesque basilica and saw the Chapel of Apparition. Father John officiated our daily Mass at the Chapel of Visitation.
Day 8 - Lourdes, France . The group in front of the Basilica of Notre Dame
Day 9 - Zaragoza, Spain At the Plaza with our Tour director Lourdes Alo, Al and Viv Day 10 - Avila, Spain with Louie Nafarete, Rose Gardoce, Viv Noche, Zeny Gardoce, Lulu Day 11 - Salamanca, Spain- the altar of the Salamanca Cathedral. Noche Tolentino, Rev. John and Al Noche
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NOVEMBER 8-14, 2018 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL
OPINION
Unsustainable
FEATURES
DESPITE appeals from environment groups, truckloads of trash were collected from the different cemeteries in Metro Manila as the holidays for remembering the dead ended on Friday, November 2. Garbage, however, litters the National Capital Region even on ordinary days, clogging drainage, aggravating flooding, and providing breeding grounds for disease-causing mosquitoes and vermin. The piles of garbage are just among the indicators of the unsustainable state of Metro Manila. In the 2018 Sustainable Cities Index, which is drawn up by Arcadis NV, an Amsterdam-based global design and consultancy firm for natural and built assets, Manila ranked 95th out of 100 mega cities worldwide, and 21st out of 23 Asian cities included in the list. The latest index, released this week, ranked cities based on three factors: people, which includes quality of life and social sustainability; planet, which covers pollution and sanitation; and profit, which is measured in terms of productivity based on economic growth, innovation and infrastructure. The Philippines ranked 93rd in the people sub-index, 91st in the planet and 98th in the profit pillar. London was ranked as the world’s most sustainable city. Swedish capital Stockholm followed; Scotland’s capital Edinburgh came in third. In
Asia, city-state Singapore was rated the most sustainable. It also placed fourth globally, ahead of Austrian capital Vienna. Hong Kong and Seoul also ranked high among Asian cities. The Arcadis report, however, categorized Manila as one of the “evolutionary cities” where there are “opportunities” for improving sustainability. These are cities that change rapidly as new circumstances arise, according to the report. Although Metro Manila remains mired in urban blight, there have been positive developments recently, such as the rehabilitation of the Pasig River — a successful program that has received international recognition. Energy and water efficiency together with other sustainable elements are being designed into new property developments. Manila may rank low in the sustainability index, but there is hope for dramatic improvements. (Philstar.com)
Editorial
The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS NOVEMBER 6, 2018 will be recorded in political history as the day of the most consequential midterm elections of our time. As of press time, we now know that a record number of Americans voted in the polls, sent in, and dropped off their ballots ahead of time, to make their voices heard two years since President Donald Trump took office. As The Filipino Channel’s daily newscast “Balitang America” reported, the stakes couldn’t be higher, with 35 Senate seats, 435 House seats, and 36 gubernatorial seats up for grabs. This election will also determine if the Republican Party will keep the majority in the Senate and the House of the Legislative branch of the U.S. government, especially after the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh as Justice of the Supreme Court, tilting the balance of power leaning conservative.
A majority of Americans say America is headed in the wrong direction and voted for Democrats to win back the House The winner of the gubernatorial races will have consequences in future elections, especially the redistricting of states. All these have a lot to do with the concern about the balance of power and the need for the checks and balance to function as it should as mandated by the Constitution to protect the integrity of our democracy. Democrats needed to win 23 seats to win back the majority in the House. The U.S. Senate has 51 Republicans and 49 Democrats. To win back the Senate majority, all incumbent Senate Democrats needed to win and flip two more. Republicans also had control of most governorships all over the nation, holding 33 to the Democrats’ 16 seats. NEWSFLASH: Democrats took back the majority in the House of Representatives, winning even in districts won by Trump in 2016. As expected, Republicans kept the leadership in the Senate, even
Opinion
YEN MAKABENTA IT startled me to read in the papers some weeks back that the chairman of the Presidential Anti-Crime Commission (PACC) had called for resignation of the Secretary of Finance, Carlos Dominguez, because of his alleged silence on the scandal and controversy wracking the Bureau of Customs (BoC). It was an astonishing display of effrontery by an office that we normally do not hear about very much, and was created by executive order only a year ago. And the missile was directed against a Cabinet official who is nominally the second most important member of the president’s Cabinet. For perfectly good reason, the Palace simply brushed aside the resignation call. And no further mention of the matter would probably have been made — but for my present curiosity about the matter. I want to use this incident to write a few words about the President’s Cabinet, its role, and the relative ranking of its members. This matters now because the President is currently on a hiring spree, and he means to hire re-
Philstar.com photo
expanding the majority by adding two more states in their column. Ahead of the midterm elections, RealClearPolitics released findings that may indicate how the election may change the political landscape in America. RealClearPolitics is a political news and polling aggregator that looks into the results from major polls of all political colors — conservative, liberal, centrist, etc. For the period October 14 to November 3, 2018, just within a little more than two weeks before the November 6 Midterm Elections, RealClearPolitics reported that a majority of Americans — 54.3 percent — feel the country is headed in the wrong direction. Only 39.5 percent believe the United States is going in the right direction. President Donald Trump’s closing message in his campaign trail: a vote a Republican is a vote for Trump. Contrary to requests of the Republican Party leaders,
including House Speaker Paul Ryan, for Trump to focus on the economic gains in the past two years under Republican control, Trump chose immigration as his closing argument because he said “it works” to push Republicans to vote. Trump has been criticized for fabricating a border crisis, painting a picture of “invasion” of America by more than 3,500 asylum seekers from Central America — men, women, children — walking through Mexico to try the legal recourse of applying for asylum in the United States to flee from violence and hunger in their countries. Trump sent 15,000 active duty troops to the border, a move responded to by military officials with obedience to the commander-in-chief even though they expressed there is no imminent border crisis and that the U.S. military would not have anything to do anything with asylum seek-
ers at the border. The president also doubled down in the use of scare tactics and vilification of asylum seekers saying they are criminals, drug peddlers, gang members, and are infiltrated with terrorist Middle Eastern without offering solid proof. He is using the same scare and hate tactics that catapulted him to the presidency in 2016, blaming the Democrats and the free press alongside the asylum seekers and immigrants. On the other hand, the Democrats’ closing argument focused on delivering health care coverage, protecting those with a preexisting condition — issue #1 for voters which has been the subject of the GOP’s obsession to repeal in almost 10 years. The Democrats also campaigned on repealing the permanent tax breaks Trump and his Republican cohorts have given to the richest of the rich Americans and Corporations, give more tax
breaks to the middle class, and protect social services including education, Social Security and Medicare. They also vowed to fight for higher wages, and better benefits for all workers; protections for consumers and the environment; equality for all, ending discrimination against people regardless of their race, gender, who they choose to love, and continued to campaign on passing a comprehensive immigration reform to strengthen America. DID YOU VOTE? We know now that Trump does not control both chambers of Congress. How will this help steer the country in the right direction?. *** 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.TheFilAmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook. com/Gel.Santos.Relos
The role of the Cabinet and who matters there
tired military officers to positions in the Cabinet, all if he can. There is word that another general will soon become the secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). And there is also talk that Sen. Gregorio Honasan will be named secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), because he will soon be termed out of the Senate. The President also has a penchant of giving freely cabinet rank to some of his new appointees. Role of the Cabinet The fact of the matter is that Cabinet members are not all alike. Some are more equal than the others. The Constitution places executive authority in the President alone. The Cabinet is not formally recognized by the Charter. There is only passing mention that the vice president may be appointed as a member of the Cabinet. Then follows a section on presidential appointments to the executive branch of the government. The Cabinet has no constitutional identity as a collective decision-making body. The notion of collective leadership — which is typically
found among Cabinet members in parliamentary systems — is incompatible with constitutional reality in a presidential system. The president is not first among equals; he is the person in charge. Cabinet members are presidential appointees, serving at the president’s pleasure. The president is not obliged to consult them as a group or act according to their preferences. Cabinet’s political significance This is not to say that the Cabinet has no political significance. Cabinet members are the principal spokespersons for administration policy. They are also the top political executives expected to provide direction for the fulfillment of the government’s commitments. There is a hierarchy of importance in the Cabinet. The secretary of foreign affairs is the highest-ranking member of the presidential Cabinet. He is also fourth in the line of succession to the presidency behind the vice president, the speaker of the House and Senate president. After the foreign affairs secretary, the secretary of finance comes next in the line. Then comes the secretary of defense. Irony of resignation call The resignation call of the
PACC, because of its extravagance and lack of substance, had the effect of focusing public attention on the importance of Dominguez’s work in the Duterte administration. The so-called watchdog group that made the call did not present a persuasive case for Secretary Dominguez’s departure, be it in terms of 1) his direct or 2) command responsibility for the mess at Customs and the inexcusable entry through the bureau of billions of pesos worth of illegal drugs. The watchdog’s main criticism of Dominguez is that he chose to be silent about the troubling developments at Customs, and has offered no ideas on how the problematic situation can be resolved. Wait a minute. There seems to be a sensible reason for the secretary’s reticence, because the President has already taken a direct hand in addressing the Customs mess, and he has even gone as far as ordering the military to take over the bureau and effect a system-wide cleanup. There is room for argument on whether a military takeover is the correct solution to the problem. Indeed, I foresee litigation at the Supreme Court on whether the President’s move is constitutional or within his au-
thority as head of the Executive branch. National attention is better focused now on solutions that will truly avail and lead directly to the process of building a better and more responsible customs bureaucracy. It makes no sense for the nation to be distracted now by a debate over the merits or demerits of Secretary Dominguez’s stewardship of the Finance department. The public and the media should rather take guidance from certain supervening realities about our economic and fiscal situation today, such as: 1. The country is enjoying today a hard-earned record for exemplary economic performance, including the highest or second-highest GDP growth in Asia. And this is due in no small part to steady and effective performance by our Finance department. 2. The Bureau of Customs is the second biggest and most important revenue–generating arm of the government, second only to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). It has recently been recording higher revenue collections that are vital for the government’s fiscal position. 3. The Finance department under Dominguez is spearhead-
ing the passage of a highly important and consequential tax reform package through the Congress. The nation needs him to be in place as one of the principal architects of this reform measure. 4. Finally, the administration of President Duterte has launched the most ambitious infrastructure modernization program ever attempted in the country, which will literally require billions, if not trillions, of dollars to finance. The program is so far-reaching the Philippines will be a new and supermodern country by the time it is completed. This will surely not happen without a competent and effective finance secretary, who enjoys the confidence and trust of international financial institutions and lenders. Marcos and his Finance secretary It is striking that during the time of President Marcos, he accorded the highest importance to his Finance secretary, Cesar Virata. Indeed, when we switched to parliamentary government under the 1973 Constitution, he chose Virata as his prime minister and virtual successor. That may have set off the epic conspiracies and dissensions that eventually toppled his presidency. (ManilaTimes.net)
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.
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Dateline PhiliPPines
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Inflation flat at 6.7% by AJPress According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Tuesday, november 6, the unchanged inflation print for the month — despite the growth of consumer goods’ prices remaining elevated in october — proves their assessment that price growth will start going down in the coming months. BSP governor nestor A. Espenilla Jr. said the print supports their view that inflation pressures are finally moderating, following the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) announcement of an unchanged 6.7 percent inflation rate in october. “it’s a significant deceleration, although the headline figure remains elevated. Second-round effects are also muted so far,” Espenilla said. “That augurs well for a return to inflation target by 2019,” he added. Backing up BSP’s assessment was ing Bank Manila senior economist nicholas Mapa who said that the 6.7 percent print in october “validates the earlier expectation that inflation was close to or had peaked for the year and is now expected to taper off slowly going into the year-end.” “Measures undertaken by the government to address supply chain bottlenecks appear to have found their way to tag prices, alleviating some pressure on food prices but inflation remains sticky given supply constraints,” he said. “We hope nonmonetary-policy measures will continue to be de-
ployed to help limit price gains ahead of the christmas season. on risks to the upside, oil prices remain elevated despite trending lower in recent weeks while second-round effects are scheduled for november with minimum wages adjusted in the metropolis and transport fares increased,” he added. However, other analysts warned of second-round inflation risks since the wage and fare hikes, as well as Typhoon rosita’s impact, were not factored into the october inflation estimates. Emilio S. neri Jr., lead economist of the Bank of the Philippine islands (BPi), said, “The 6.7-percent october inflation means the fourth quarter, not the third quarter, is the likely peak for quarterly inflation in 2018, as both november and december are likely to remain above 6-percent.” Food supply stability According to economic managers, more attention should be given to ensuring the stability of food supply, particularly rice, as it remains to be the major contributor to inflation. “To compensate for the lost harvest in typhoon-affected areas, rice imports should be closely monitored to ensure that their arrival is timely and sufficient,” their joint statement read. They also urged the department of Agriculture to speed up distribution of seed buffer stocks for rice, corn and other buffer stocks in disaster-hit areas in time for the november-January planting season. Their call to congress to pass the amendments to the Agricultural Tariffication Act that would help lower rice prices by as much
as P7 per kilogram was also reiterated. “Setting our sights on longer horizons, more should be done to ensure price stability of food products. The government needs to pay closer attention to the agriculture and fisheries sector to significantly increase productivity and to be more competitive and resilient to weather-related and man-made shocks,” economic managers said. ‘Gov’t on the right track’ Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the duterte administration’s actions have helped steady the rate of inflation in october that fell within the forecast of the BSP. According to him, duterte is apparently on the right track in mapping out efforts to reduce the prices of goods in the market. At a regular press briefing in Malacañang yesterday, he said, “i think so, considering the directives of the president supplying us with food and other measures undertaken by the department of Finance (doF) as well as Agriculture and Trade, i think that contributes (to the steady prices of basic goods).” duterte also revamped the nFA to allow entry of imported rice, which economic managers earlier saw as a main contributor to the high monthly inflation, as reported by The Philippine Star. Panelo is hopeful that the prices of commodities will remain steady in the run up to the christmas season. “Hopefully – it depends on global conditions. of course, the government hopes that it will not go up and, hopefully, it should go down,” he said. n
PAROL MAKER. A hard-working grandmother makes more “parol” to meet orders and earn extra income for the coming Christmas season at the Plaza Quezon in Las Piñas City on Sunday, November 4. PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan
CAAP clarifies issue on OFW terminal fee, travel tax refunds by AJPress clAriFicATion on the issue regarding labor Secretary Silvestre Bello’s call for the agency to return the terminal fees and travel taxes collected from overseas Filipino workers (oFWs) has been made by the civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (cAAP). Bello had reportedly sent letters to cAAP to reiterate his request to refund some P500 million worth of terminal fees and travel taxes collected from the oFWs since 2015. The law states that migrant workers and oFWs registered with the Philippine overseas Employment Administration (PoEA) are exempt from paying travel tax and airport fee.
cAAP spokesperson Eric Apolonio told the Philippine news Agency (PnA) on Tuesday, november 6, that the agency is not the only entity responsible for collecting the said fees from oFWs, since cAAP operates only seven international airports. “Among the seven international airports that cAAP manages, it is only via the davao international Airport, where the oFWs pass through. This airport does not charge terminal fees for oFWs,” Apolonio said. The six other airports are in general Santos, Puerto Princesa, iloilo, Zamboanga, Kalibo, and laoag. Apolonio noted that these airports are being used mostly by tourists, and not by the oFWs.
According to him, the bulk of what Bello was requesting to be refunded is not under cAAP’s jurisdiction. “Majority of the oFWs use the airports in Manila (nAiA), cebu, and clark. These other airports have their own mandates,” he said. Apolonio also said that travel tax is normally included in the ticket — this is how the airline would know if the passenger is an oFW or not when he or she books the ticket. He said cAAP could not comment on the issue regarding travel taxes collected from the oFWs. “The Tourism infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TiEZA) collects travel taxes,” he said. n
Palace vows to run after execs in Dengvaxia mess Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange seen to ease metro traffic woes
by Ralph VillanueVa ManilaTmes.net
MAlAcAñAng on Tuesday, november 6, said appropriate charges would be slapped on those responsible for the mass vaccination involving the anti-dengue vaccine dengvaxia. This came a day after the Public Attorney’s office (PAo) said it was studying upgrading the dengvaxia complaints from reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide to murder. it also came a week after 10 new dengvaxia complaints were filed before the department of Justice (doJ) against Health Secretary Francisco duque iii, his predecessor Janette garin and several others in connection with dengvaxia-related deaths. in a statement, Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo said the Executive branch had “taken forceful action” on the issue. “Appropriate charges will be lodged and pursued against government officials and private individuals found responsible by the doJ for this failed health program for children,” Panelo said. He added that the doJ was expected to come up with a resolution before november ends. “The President [rodrigo duterte] is monitoring the issues surrounding the anti-dengue vaccine called dengvaxia. He hears all the calls for justice of families of children whose deaths are reportedly caused by the said vaccine,” the spokesman said. PAo chief Persida rueda-Acosta, on Tuesday, assisted family members of 10 alleged victims of the vaccine in filing 10 counts of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, torture, and violations of the consumer Protection Act (republic Act 7394), particularly provisions on “defective products” and “mislabeled products,” against duque, garin, other health officials, and officials and personnel of vaccine manufacturer Sanofi Pasteur and distributor Zuellig Pharma. The implementation of the dengvaxia mass vaccination affected 800,000 school children. Earlier this year, the Volunteers
by alexis
RomeRo Philstar.com
PAO Chief Persida Acosta assists relatives of Dengvaxia victims during the filing of additional charges against Health officials at the Department of Justice in Manila on Monday, November 5. ManilaTimes.net photo by DJ Diosina
Against crime and corruption and Vanguard of the Philippine constitution inc. filed charges at the doJ against garin, former president Benigno Aquino 3rd and former Budget secretary Florencio Abad for their alleged involvement in the purchase of P3.5 billion worth of dengvaxia. They were charged with technical malversation for conspiring to unlawfully effect the release of savings from the fiscal year 2015 Mutual Benefit Personnel Fund and use the same to augment the anti-dengue immunization program, as well as multiple homicide and physical injuries through negligence under the revised Penal code. FDA accepts application The United States Food and drug Administration (FdA) meanwhile has accepted a Biologics license Application for Sanofi Pasteur’s dengue vaccine, a statement from Sanofi sent to media said. According to the statement, the dengue vaccine candidate has been granted priority review by the U.S. FdA as it would represent the first and only medical prevention tool against dengue, including severe dengue, which is considered an unmet medical need. The U.S. FdA set a Prescription drug User Fee Act action date of May 1, 2019. dengue is endemic in the U.S. territories of Puerto rico and the
improve coverage and internet speeds. China Telecom floated in December 2017 in december 2017, Presidential communications operations office Secretary Martin Andanar said that china Telecom would be the third telco. “The chinese government has selected a company that will invest in the telco (industry) of our country. it is china Telecom, the largest telecommunications company in china,” Andanar said then over dzBB. later that month, he clarified that other foreign firms are welcome to bid. “This is not limited to china. This is open to all telcos or investors around the world. Whoever can provide the best offer, the
lay down the physical foundations of a more progressive and prosperous nation so that our countrymen will enjoy at the very least not a rich life, not even a bar lower than that, but at least – most of them are poor – but we can assure them of a comfortable, just a comfortable life,” duterte said. Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade had assured duterte that the project is free of corruption, according to the chief Executive. He revealed that somebody offered to donate campaign funds to him in 2016 but he refused to accept them. “Tales can be weaved around a certain contract or the winning contractor... i did not accept their offer. i said, ‘it’s oK, maybe, with a shoestring budget, i can make it.’ Just to clarify everything. So, i am impressed, i am proud that they were able to build a good structure. And it will serve the Filipino and that is what’s very important to me,” the President said. it was not clear, however, if duterte was referring to MWM Terminals when he was talking about the party that offered to donate money to his campaign. n
U.S. Virgin islands. in 2010, Puerto rico experienced the largest outbreak when more than 12,000 cases were confirmed. incidence remained high in subsequent years, particularly in 2012 and 2013. dengue represents a health and economic burden in Puerto rico with total annual associated costs reaching an estimated $160.2 million, the statement added. “Sanofi is committed to reducing the global burden of dengue,” said david greenberg, regional Medical Head north America, Sanofi Pasteur. “The vaccine has been evaluated in studies involving more than 40,000 people from 15 countries around the world with up to six years of follow-up data from large-scale investigations that included Puerto rico as a study site.” People can get dengue up to four times and dengue is unique in that the second infection tends to be worse than the first. The statement said prevention of re-infection with another dengue serotype can help to reduce the individual risk of severe dengue, as well as the overall healthcare costs associated with hospitalization due to dengue. Dubbed as the country’s first “landport,” PITX is a flagship project under the transportation department in partnership with MWM Terminals The European commission Inc., a subsidiary of engineering and infrastructure conglomerate Megawide. Philstar.com photo is expected to grant marketing authorization for dengvaxia in december 2018, the statement said. n sible for the protection, preservaMAnilA — Ten senators are try’s cultural traditions.” Under the proposed measure, tion, regulation, development, pushing to reorganize the national commission for culture and the the following agencies will be at- management, dissemination and Arts (nccA) into an independent tached to the department: promotion of the cultural, hismost viable offer, the most juicy department of culture. - cultural center of the Philip- torical and artistic heritage and offer will be the third player of the resources, with their physical and Sen. Francis Escudero, chair of pines telecommunication industry of the the Senate committee on educa- national Museum of the Phil- social contexts and environments, Philippines,” he said. are understood as together contion, arts and culture, sponsored ippines in January, lawyer Harry roque, Senate Bill 1528 or the “depart- national Historical commis- stituting pertaining to Philippine presidential spokesman at the ment of culture Act” which is now sion of the Philippines culture for purposes of this Act,” time, said that china offered to on second reading. - national library of the Philip- the bill read. invest in the Philippine telco Sens. Sonny Angara, Bam Aqui- pines The department will be headed industry during a bilateral meet- no, nancy Binay, JV Ejercito, Sher- national Archives of the Phil- by a secretary with at least three ing between President rodrigo win gatchalian, risa Hontiveros, ippines undersecretaries and at least five duterte and chinese Premier li loren legarda, Joel Villanueva and - Komisyon ng Wikang Filipino assistant secretaries, together Keqiang. - intramuros Administration Migs Zubiri co-authored the bill. with the personnel in immediate “Because it was offered and ac- national Parks development offices. “The passage of this bill will cepted, we will honor our word,” further nurture and preserve our committee According to Escudero, the roque said then. - nayong Filipino Foundation Filipino heritage by enhancing initial funding for the depart“But as i said, if for any reason, the agency’s mandate and giving - Film development council of ment of culture, should the bill china Telecoms or any company it more authority in implementing the Philippines become a law, would come from nominated by the chinese govern- the programs that will promote the - national Book development the current year’s budget for the ment finds the 60-40 requirement importance of the Philippine arts Board nccA. Subsequent budgetary apin the constitution to be unaccept- and culture,” Escudero said. - design center of the Philip- propriations, which will be not less able, then of course, that will give The proposed department of pines than P2 billion, will be included in us now the option to offer it to culture would be mandated to “The department with its at- the next years. (Patricia Lourdes other companies.” (Philstar.com) “promote and develop the coun- tached agencies shall be respon- Viray/Philstar.com)
Udenna-China Telecom named provisional third telco
MAnilA — Mislacom—the consortium of Udenna corp. and china Telecom—has been declared the provisional third telco of the Philippines. Earlier Wednesday, november 7, two other bidders were disqualified by a national Telecommunications commission selection committee for failing to meet requirements to participate. SEAr Telecom—a consortium by chavit Singson company lcS and Tier1— and Philippine Telegraph and Telephone corporation (PT&T) can still appeal the disqualification. The entry of the final three bidders — out of an original 10 groups who bought bid documents — comes two years after President rodrigo duterte said he would open up the Philippines to a third telco player in order to
MAnilA — President rodrigo duterte on Monday, november 5 led the inauguration of the Parañaque integrated Terminal Exchange (PiTX), as he expressed hope that the project would ease traffic woes in Metro Manila. duterte said the project – the first integrated and multi-modal terminal in southwest Metro Manila, is one of the intermodal terminals to be developed by the government in cooperation with the private sector. dubbed as the country’s first “landport,” PiTX is a flagship project under the transportation department in partnership with MWM Terminals inc., a subsidiary of engineering and infrastructure conglomerate Megawide. “This will offer passengers a safer, state-of-the-art and convenient terminal experience that will hopefully contribute to addressing traffic congestion in Metro Manila,” the President said. “This will help ease traffic by limiting provincial buses plying Metro Manila roads, specifically along roxas Boulevard and
the EdSA-Taft Avenue area,” he added. The terminal will also serve as a transfer point between the provincial buses from cavite, western Batangas and other in-city modes of transportation, according to the chief Executive. duterte asked the department of Transportation and MWM Terminals to implement the necessary measures to ensure that all vehicles that will use PiTX are roadworthy, have proper documents and are compliant with environmental laws. “With the Build Build Build program in full swing, i assure our people that the government is exerting all efforts to construct the necessary infrastructure that would sustain our country’s continued development,” the President said. The PiTX has a maximum daily capacity of 100,000 passengers and has departure and arrival bays for buses, jeepneys and taxis. it will also implement a bus reservation and online booking system and provide passengers with multiple modes of transport in one easy-to-navigate facility. “Together, let us work hard to
Senators back creation of Department of Culture
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Journal All set for the filming of PH’s first historical sports drama Regine Velasquez opens up about miscarriage, depression by edMund
SilveStre Philstar.com
by Jan
Milo Severo
Philstar.com
KAPAMILYA singer Regine Velasquez said she was not expecting anymore to become a mother after she suffered miscarriage in 2010. In an interview with Korina Sanchez on “Rated K,” the “Asia’s Songbird” recalled a period in her life when she was so down. “Actually, hindi na nga namin ineexpect na we will be given one. Actually before him, I had a miscarriage. Noong time kasi na ‘yon when I got pregnant, parang hindi ako ready, tapos noong nawala parang ‘O my gosh.’ I felt really bad,” she said of her miscarriage.
But she and husband Ogie Alcasid are very thankful to God after receiving their son Nathan. “Soon after that, God gifted us this little boy. That’s why his name is Nathaniel James. Nathaniel means gift of God,” she said. Regine revealed that she suffered miscarriage during the late night talk show “Tonight with Arnold Clavio” in 2016. The singer also admitted that due to the miscarriage, she suffered depression for a while. Following her controversial transfer from GMA to ABS-CBN, the singer has recently announced on Instagram that she is to become a part of new Kapamilya reality TV Regine Velasquez series, “Idol Philippines.” Photo from Instagram/@reginevelasquez
Piolo Pascual focuses on self-love by MJ
Piolo Pascual
Marfori/ManilaTimes.net
“1936: The Islanders in Berlin” will pay tribute to the Filipino hoopsters who placed fifth overall at the 11th Summer Olympics. Up to this day, it’s the highest finish of any Asian team in Olympic basketball history. The little-known saga of the Philippine basketball team that endured historical injustice at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin, Germany, is the subject of the Philippines’ first historical sports feature film which will start rolling anytime now. Veteran sports anchor and writer Bill Velasco, who is the film’s co-producer and writer, said that the movie “1936: The Islanders in Berlin” will pay tribute to the Filipino hoopsters who placed fifth overall at the 11th Summer Olympics. “It is up to this day the highest finish of any Asian team in Olympic basketball history,” he stressed. Award-winning indie filmmaker and writer Arlyn dela Cruz-Bernal will direct and co-produce under her Blank Pages Productions. The Filipino squad — called The Islanders from what was then known as the Philippine islands before it became a Republic — was the darling of the German media as well as adoring blonde girls, who sent them scented love letters mainly due to their exotic
(Left) The Islanders competing at the 1936 Olympics. (Right) Poster for the film to be directed by Arlyn dela Cruz-Bernal. Philstar.com photos
looks and agility when basketball was played outdoor on a dirt court and without shot clock. “What we wanted to do was to somehow honor this team and bring to light the historical injustice committed against them,” said Bill, who is venturing into feature film after producing documentaries for international cable networks since 2010. “It’s well-documented that the Olympic basketball rules were changed when the Philippines was winning and while the tournament was going on,” Bill pointed out in a detailed account based on extensive research and recorded interviews, including one with the late Sen. Ambrosio Padilla who, at
WHILE everyone is swooning and snooping around who our favorite showbiz heartthrob is dating, Piolo Pascual reveals to the Manila Times that he’s actually busy doing things for himself. Gone are the days when Piolo pressures himself to be with someone because now, he is just busy with no one but himself. He no longer entertains queries about the last woman he was linked with, which was Shaina Magdayao. “A lot has been said already. Puro he said she said and it’s better to clear things and kung kami na lang nag-uusap hindi yung sa iba namin naririnig kung anong sinabi namin. Right now I’m single and very happy being single,” he said. The actor is busy with his son Iñigo Pascual, who he carefully moulds to be a very responsible young personality, “I am so proud of him and how he chooses his projects but, of course, I am [always] here to guide him in life.” Besides this, Papa P as we all love to call him, is now open to talk about politics and even use his celebrity influence to educate people about what the real deal is in our country and what the fans should actually care about, but was firm to say that he does not need to run for a post to do so. “Yes, lagi ako nililigawan pero I don’t need that because I am already heard in my platform which is to be this celebrity with a voice. So if I’m going to influence it would be through my production The Philippine Olympic Basketball Team to the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin. ABS-CBN photo house Spring Films,” he averred.
26, served as team captain. “There was really no opportunity for people to raise hell about it because the war broke out and there were no Olympic games in 1940 and 1944, so it got forgotten,” Bill explained. “What Filipinos remember now was Caloy Loyzaga’s era which was already the 1950s.” The rules of basketball were totally different when it made its debut in the Berlin Olympics, Bill noted. “At the time, you had the jumpball after every made basket so the game was so slow and boring,” he said. “And because of that rule, everybody had to be the same height. The height limit was set at 6’3 and everybody complied.” However, Germany, under Adolf Hitler, allowed the Americans to violate the rules as a political accommodation to avoid a boycott by the U.S. over the banning of Jewish and black athletes, according to Bill. They let the U.S. double the number of its players and let four athletes over 6’3 in height to play; the tallest was 6’8. “This made everyone else an underdog,” Bill said. “On the third day, organizers declared a change in format that whoever lost from that point would be eliminated. As luck would have it, the Islanders’ next opponent was the U.S. And PAGE B2
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The Lei Company: Community building and cultural preservation through entrepreneurship by AJPress A LEI or a flower garland is more than something you wear around your neck, as it is a message of welcome, congratulations, love, sympathy and many more. Used around the world, the earliest record of flower garlands being sold in Egypt were shortly before the birth of Christ. However, the proliferation of leis in the United States is due partly to the colonization of Hawai’i and the appropriation of lei through Tiki culture. Filipino-American Tiffany Rose Na’puti Lacsado saw an opportunity
The School Houz Carnation Lei.
not only to continue the preservation and evolution of the lei, but also to get people in the community to uplift the quality of their lives economically. “I had a long career in public health. I worked in HIV/AIDS prevention education and then later as a certified lactation educator with the Marin County Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program,” said Lacsado in an e-mail interview with the Asian Journal. “At some point I had an ‘aha!’ moment where I realized that the biggest barrier to health for all of my clients across the spectrum was their inability to participate in the economy. For different reasons their job prospects were slim to nil or as in the case of my WIC they worked in an environment and under circumstances that hindered their ability to make healthy choices. When I left public health I knew that I wanted to be a job creator but I didn’t know how to do that so I enrolled in an MBA program at Meridian University. Meridian University MBA program was a school that really wanted to shift business in a way that was non-extractive and regenerative to the universe, the planet and all of its inhabitants.” Lacsado was also struck by the statistic compiled by the National Coalition of Asian Pacific American Community Development that showed that during the recession, Pasifika-Melanesian, Micronesian
Tiffany Rose Na’puti Lacsado, CEO and Founder of The Lei Company Cooperative.
and Polynesian poverty increased 60 percent. “I became really curious as to why that was and it sent me into a rabbit hole of research of looking at poverty, community wealth and understanding what builds community wealth in which entrepreneurship is key,” she shared. In June 2017, Lacsado founded The Lei Company (TLC) Cooperative, Inc., a California worker-owned corporation based in Oakland. By June 2018 she was selling her products across the continental United States and wanted to expand the marketing, sales and distribution capacity of her cooperative, develop products for the death care and wedding industries, and start to cultivate her commercial lei garden. However, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations were cumbersome and advertising was strictly prohibited under a private equity offering, but she was able to meet her investment need through Title III of the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act. This allowed her to publicly advertise that she was seeking investment and could receive investment in smaller amounts from unaccredited investors. Prior to the Title III’s implementation in 2016, private businesses were only able to accept investment from accredited investors. So she turned to regulation crowdfunding’s newest platform – Crowdfund Mainstreet to craft her new securities offering and launch a Direct Public Offering via an investment crowdfunding campaign. Her cooperative’s investment crowdfunding campaign along with four other women led businesses and the platform itself went live on August 24, 2018 in front 300+ audience who attended the Crowdfund Mainstreet launch party held at the Oakland Impact Hub. “Every business needs funding to operate however The Lei Company Coop launched a direct public offering via the Crowdfund Mainstreet platform in hopes that others who have enjoyed lei and used lei as a universal expression of love could become part of our story as investors and share in our success. “In addition to the economic, cultural, social and environmental
The Lei Company Cooperative with Crowdfund Mainstreet Founders.
impacts that we are choosing to make, the corner stone of our business model and the way that we intend to scale is to become the national brand for school districts – public, private and charter schools, colleges and universities, as well as becoming the preferred brand in the wedding and funeral industries,” Lacsado shared. Leis have also been made popular as in the case of graduations, by the tastemakers that are the Pasifika community and others who have migrated from all across the Oceania to continental United States. According to the Pacific Community formerly known as the Secretariat of the Pacific, Pasifika indigenous arts represent a wealth of traditions, from ancient practices to contemporary cultural expressions that are produced by indigenous peoples of the Oceania. Handicrafts where lei-making reside include visual arts, fashion, music and dance are amongst the genres popularly exported or cultivated by indigenous Pasifika peoples in the United States. Lacsado said, “It just made logical sense to me that the economic benefits of the lei as we know it in the United States should return to the communities whose culture it comes from. The graduation retail industry generated $5.7B in 2017 and although there are no statistics on how much of that number is from lei sales, from anecdotal evidence we know that millions of dollars in lei transactions occur in the marketplace and in the unsanctioned-black market.” Lacsado also added that they “wanted to disrupt the industry
Photo by Leilua Malieitulua
The Pinay Pride Solidarity Lei is a unique way to show homage to the Philippine flag.
by creating business ownership opportunities that had low barriers to entry. “The Lei Company is a cooperative corporation because cooperativism does not isolate but encourages and affirms the communal, collaborative and reciprocal values that the Pasifika community holds dear which are values that are very similar in the Filipino community.
Cooperativism also provides the scaffolding that allows for members to build their capacity in business development and administration, skills that members can bring with them when they decide their time as a coop member is complete.” Of course, TLC goes more than economics, as the company cares about the cultural preservation and PAGE B3
Benjamin Alves brushes off excitement on Quezon role by MJ
Marfori ManilaTimes.net
Benjamin Alves
BENJAMIN Alves is slated for bigger things to come for his career but he does not want to get too excited about it. After blockbusters “Heneral Luna” and “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral,” he is set to headline the trilogy finale as former President Manuel L. Quezon which he already played in the previous film. Although that is already set in stone as far as the production is concerned, Benjamin does not want to keep his hopes up. “I don’t want to get too excited because three years namin binuo itong Goyo, and we want to enjoy this first, but yes, that is in the horizon… in time,” he told the Manila Times. The archives of information and encounters of people with Manuel Quezon is far richer in depth compared to the first two instalments of the hero trilogy. As early as now, Benjamin is already doing his homework. “Inaral ko na talaga. I want to imbibe his character. Marami na rin ako nakausap and what is good is that totoong tao namin ipapakita si Manuel Quezon. The good and the bad. The reality of how he was,” he revealed. “May vision na si Jerrold and the TBA production about Manuel Quezon. I’m excited for what they have in store but again, all I can do as an actor is prepare for reading materials and fight the good fight via Manuel Quezon,” Alves added. We are all looking forward to it! Until next week! Ta-ta!
GMA photo
All set for the filming of PH’s first historical...
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with numerous jumpball situations, the Philippines was knocked out…yet they competed with total sportsmanship and set records that still stand today.” Bill said casting for the film has been completed following a grueling audition. Signed up were character actors, aspiring actors and athletes who have knowledge in basketball, he said. He revealed that one actor being considered for a major part is Jhong Hilario to play Padilla’s co-team captain, Jacinto Ciria Cruz, the Islanders’ best player who later became a World War II guerilla and was beheaded by the Japanese in 1944. “Jhong and Jacinto have the same built, same height, color and everything…but Jhong is too busy with TV projects (Ang Probinsyano, It’s Showtime!) and as Makati City councilor,” Bill said, adding that he has already talked to the actor-host. Bill said the 1936 Olympics has over 4,000 hours of footage commissioned by Hitler himself and which can be used for the film since they are now public domain. The biggest challenge, he said, is the set design, of which “everything has to be
Bill during a recent audition he conducted for the historical sports film.
recreated.” “We found a supplier of 1930s cars in Kamuning, and we found locations like the Court of Appeals complex in Baguio City that looked like Germany in the 1930s,” Bill said. “Finding the ball is the hard part because they don’t manufacture them anymore wherein the leather was hand stitched and the inside inflatable part was separate from the skin of the ball.” Bill added that one of the film’s highlights is the unimaginable travel of the squad to Europe at
Philstar.com photo
a time when there was no commercial flight yet. They spent three weeks on a ship to get to Paris — enduring seasickness, boredom and lack of rice — and another week crammed into tiny compartments on a train to Berlin. Bill said he has sought the help of the Philippine Olympic Committee and the Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas to make representations to the International Olympic Committee and FIBA to honor the Islanders, all of whom are already gone now.
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Maureen Wroblewitz adds sizzle to ‘Eat Bulaga’ Regal finds a new diva in Jessy Mendiola by Arlo
Custodio ManilaTimes.net
MODEL Maureen Wroblewitz struts her way from the ramp and photoshoots to noontime television as the newest addition to “Eat Bulaga.” The first Philippine representative to win “Asia’s Next Top Model (ASNTM)” in its six years of running, Wroblewitz disclosed that she had to decline offers from two competing networks when she decided to join the daily noontime show. She said the driving force behind her decision was the longtime dream of her 82-year-old maternal grandmother, Iluminada Pojas, to see her regularly in the longest-running variety show in the country. The half-Filipina, half-German debuted in the September 24 episode and was introduced as “Sis Madam”or “Sissy” in Ryzza Mae’s Dizon segment. Since then, the 20-year-old dabbles in different portions of the show. “I’ve known the show since I was little and I know that it is being watched by millions worldwide. As a matter of fact, my grandmother religiously watches it. It’s her longtime wish to see me regularly on television and me joining ‘Eat Bulaga’ is, in a way, fulfilling that wish. At the same time, I want to try something new, venture into an unknown territory — live television. And what better way to do that than to be part of the longest and most successful program in the country,” she said. “Eat Bulaga” Senior Vice President for Creatives and Operations Jeny Ferre said that she and the management were impressed by the model’s determination, passion and fighting spirit. And that the show likes to give opportunities to young people who dare to dream, just like Maureen. “She’s a natural and has so much potential. When you talk to her, she has that charm and you’ll really feel that she’s here to prove something of herself. We like that attitude. She’s eager to show what she can do and at the same time is very open to new ideas,” she said. Admittedly, Maureen said she has a long way to go and is still getting used to working on a live television show and in front of a big audience. But she is looking forward to meeting everyone in “Eat Bulaga” and to learn from
by riCky
CAlderon ManilaTimes.net
REGAL Films Ad-Prom (advertising and promotions) people swear Jessy Mendiola fits to be called a diva — not the true meaning which is a famous female opera or pop singer but the modern meaning of “a self-important woman who is temperamental and difficult to please.” Roving Eye learned that the first time the Ad-Prom people came to the shoot, they requested Jessy (who was resting in her van) if she can grant their request for a pictorial since the set-up for was ready. Jessy reportedly said, “Bababa ako. Kukunan ninyo ako ng picture tapos babalik ako sa sasakyan para maghintay na naman na matapos yung set-up. Ayoko, wala
Jolina says missing Judy Ann’s wedding her big regret by Alfred
BAyle Inquirer.net
Maureen Wroblewitz sashays from the ramp to the ‘Eat Bulaga’ Dabarkads stage.
her co-hosts. “I still get nervous and I admire people who work live on television because it’s not easy. I just try to calm myself down and get help from the people who have always been there for me. It’s scarier but it is fun. I actually enjoy it.” As for the negative comments she’s getting for her lack of television experience or her poor Filipino speaking skills, the model said she’d rather focus on the positives rather than the negatives. “People always ask me if I get affected. Of course I get affected, I’d be lying if I say I didn’t. But I learned how to handle it and I think it is normal, sometimes I even laugh at the comments. I read it but I don’t really focus on them. I’ve already anticipated that I’ll have bashers even after winning ASNTM. If you decide to be in the public eye, not everyone is going to like you.” Maureen added that nowadays, bashers rarely get on her nerves as she grew a thicker skin after joining the model search. She recalled that early on the competition, when she started opening up to her co-models, some said negative things behind her back while others accused her
As ‘Sis Madam’ to ‘Boss Madam’ Ryzza Mae Dizon (left).
GMA photos
know how to work with natural materials. We also exist to not only return the economic benefit of lei to the Pasifika community but we also exist preserve and evolve the art lei-making.” TLC looks into the future with plans on offering licensing and/or franchising opportunities. Admitting that it is a grand vision that involves a substantial amount of money to become a reality, Lascado
One of The Lei Company’s top sellers and most laborious leis is the Dolla Dolla Bill, an origami lei made completely of $1 bills.
JOLINA Magdangal and Judy Ann Santos had a chance to look back at their long friendship during which the momshie host admitted to greatly regretting missing Santos’ wedding. The two close friends were able to look back to the fears they had experienced together in a special episode of “Magandang Buhay” on Nov. 5 to celebrate host Magdangal’s birthday, as reported by Push. Santos appeared on the show as a surprise guest. As the actresses reminisced about their younger days in the showbiz industry,
to be unworthy of her spot in the model search. “Some things happened off camera. Two weeks in, they were talking about me, they’re judging me. I was struggling because I never had that feeling growing up because I was never bullied in school. There are girls who are more experienced than me but they were eliminated and that just didn’t bode well with others. They always ask, ‘why are you still here?’” The bullying, Maureen said, motivated her to perform better. She wanted to prove not just to her co-models, but also to herself that she can win the competition. “It’s very rare that you see short models in the runway but I used that to challenge myself to do better and to prove to everyone that even though I’m not the tallest girl, I can do things my way. I just took that as a motivation and I will never let that bring me down.” Asked for advice for people who are having a hard time fitting in, the model who lost her mother at the young age of 11, said it is better to surround yourself with people who are close and dear to you. “You just have to focus on the positive things. What I like to do Jolina Magdangal and Judy Ann Santos Photo from Instagram/@mariajolina_ig is I focus on the good things, especially those that will uplift my spirit. At the end of the day, you count on people who care.” Right now, Maureen is grateful for this once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of the longest-running noontime variety program in the country. She said she’ll try to make everyone, especially her fans, proud. “After ASNTM, I’ve been traveling around. For once, I’ll be in one place for a long time and I think that is great. I’m excited to explore more my roots and meet people along the way. I also hope that they, the viewers, will also get to know more about me now that I am part of this big family,” she said.
The Lei Company: Community building... PAGE B2 evolution of lei and other weaving and textile arts. “Our research within the confines of the Bay Area showed that second and third generations of the Pasifika community born in the United States did not know how to make botanical lei with flowers and leaves,” Lacsado shared. “Everyone we surveyed knew how to make candy and other non-perishable lei but they didn’t
sa schedule ko ang promo shoot na yan.” The crew could only sigh. Jessy also had another “emo moment,” this time concerning her fans who visit her on the set. She reportedly instructed her make-up-artist that in case a fan (or anybody for that matter) would like to have a picture with her, the makeup artist should come to her and say she needs a retouch. The makeup artist would allegedly literally drag Jessy away from the fan (or fans) just to prevent them from having a picture with her. Doesn’t Jessy realize that being nice to the crew and fans is part of her job as artista? Maybe she Jessy Mendiola may learn a thing or two from can a learn a thing or two from her her ‘future mother-in-law’ on how to deal with “future mother-in-law” who truly fans and production crew. ManilaTimes.net photo is the Star For All Seasons.
believes that it is time for TLC to exist because of the feedbacks they have received from schools about lei sales during graduation being unregulated. “A company like ours limits harm and liability to schools because we go through their procurement process and meet their standards of excellence. In 2017 we became the approved lei vendors for the Oakland Unified School District and to service all 127 schools in addition to smaller charter and private schools, our web store and our branded Amazon store requires quite a bit of overlay of cash. On Amazon our sales are primarily from our money lei which also requires cash to make the product. Our claim to fame is that we were the first company to essentially sell money to consumers on the Amazon platform,” explained Lacsado. Although of mixed heritage (Filipina and Chamorro) and that TLC is a Pasifika-Melanasian, Micronesian and Polynesian women’s workerowned lei-making cooperative, Lacsado believes that the community should see it as another example of a “purpose-driven company spearheaded by a Filipina-American that is mabait, matalino at masipag.’” “What is also important to note is that the Fil-Am community are huge consumers of lei. Fil-Am buy lei for various occasions throughout the year, not just at graduation time and we hope that when choosing a company to purchase their lei, that they would purchase from us and help support our economic, cultural, social and environmental aims,” she said. *To view or order their products visit www.theleicompany and on Amazon.com. For investment opportunity log on to www.crowdfundmainstreet. com.
Magdangal revealed how she had once greatly regretted missing Santos’ wedding when she was married to her husband, Ryan Agoncillo, in 2009. She thought that if she had attended, then this one gap in their friendship would never have happened. “Sana nung time na ‘yon ay binitiwan ko kung ano ang dapat kong ginawa at nagpunta ako roon,” said Magdangal. The momshie host was quickly reassured by Santos that it was all water under the bridge.
Santos explained, “Alam mo actually hindi ko na nga naiisip ‘yon after nating mag-usap. Nung tinanong nga ako kung nagkaroon ba tayo ng tampuhan, wala akong masagot kasi nawala na siya sa akin.” Magdangal cited the reason why she missed the wedding was due to a tight schedule. The two actresses were previously part of the 90s teen series “Gimik.” Momshie Jolens celebrates her 40th birthday on Tuesday, November 6.
EntErtainmEnt
B November 8-14, 2018 • LAS veGAS ASIAN JoUrNAL
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Donny & Kisses on doing ‘Meteor Garden’ by Jan
Milo Severo Philstar.com
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KAPAMILYA love team DonKiss, composed of Donny Pangilinan and Kisses Delavin, would be delighted to portray the roles of Dao Ming Si and Shan Cai if ABS-CBN should be the one to do a local version of “Meteor Garden.” In separate interviews with Philstar.com, the “Playhouse” stars said they are ready to take part, if there will be an opportunity, in the “Asianovela” series. “I would love to be Shan Cai kasi stable na ‘yan e. ‘Pag Shan Cai alam mong palaban na babae, cute, so I’m such a fan even though I haven’t seen the whole ‘Meteor Garden’,” Kisses said. “I think na if ever I play the role, I would really give my best kasi it’s such a great role. Everybody in the industry, I think, wants that role,” she added. She also said that her onscreen partner, Donny, is fit to do the role of the young millionaire bad boy Dao Ming Si. “Yes, I think bagay kay Donny ‘yung Dao Ming Si na role,” she said. Kisses is also wondering if the “Meteor Garden” characters would still retain their Chinese names in the Filipino version.
Kisses Delavin and Donny Pangilinan
ABS-CBN photo
For his part, Donny said he is willing to portray the role if the offer comes. “Wow. Hindi ko pa po alam e. Siguro ‘pag dumating na ‘yung offer,” he said. Although not a fan of “Meteor Garden,” Donny said Kisses is fit
for the role of Shan Cai: “Kahit sino kaya ni Kisses yan!” he assured. According to an online poll by Philstar.com, Donny and Kisses are among netizens’ top choices to star in the Filipino version of “Meteor Garden.”
What’s stopping Zanjoe and Maja from taking friendship to the next level by Dolly
anne CarvaJal Inquirer.net
If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, email us the details (title, description, time & date, location, etc.) at info@asianjournalinc.com. And for consideration in our print calendar, please send submissions at least three weeks before the date of the event. To be included in our online calendar/ e-newsletter, please allow at least two to three weeks' notice. The Asian Journal would be delighted to list your event in our Calendar of Events. Zanjoe Marudo and Maja Salavador Photo from Instagram/@iammajasalvador
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SOMETIMES, friendship is better than love. Lovers come and go, but friends remain. So, it’s quite tricky to fall for a best friend. Romance could ruin the friendship when Cupid plays tricks on a couple. Maja Salvador and Zanjoe Marudo’s movie, “To Love Some Buddy,” tackles what it’s like when two friends get the urge to merge. They make quite an interesting onscreen pair since Zanjoe’s ex (Bea Alonzo) and Maja’s ex (Gerald Anderson) are officially a couple. Is crossing the demarcation line between friendship and love worth the risk? Or is it better to stay friends to avoid complications that intimacy brings? Platonic or erotic? Let the story of Julius (Zanjoe) and Faith (Maja) help your heart decide. Here’s my chat with Zanjoe: Would you fall for a best friend? Never say never. I would rather not preempt the situation. It would be nice and exciting, though. What makes a girl best friend material and wife material? Best friend: Supports you in everything you want to
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Your Immigration Solution ATTY. BEN LOVEMAN PRESIDENT Trump announced that his administration is preparing an executive order to end birthright citizenship. This announcement was met with outrage and skepticism from his critics, who argue that the move would be both unconstitutional and un-American. Critics also suggest that the announcement is another example of President Trump trying to motivate Republican voters ahead of next week’s crucial midterm elections. In support of the announcement, President Trump claimed that “we’re the only country in the world where a person comes in and has a baby, and the baby is essentially a citizen of the United States for 85 years, with all of those benefits.” In fact, at least 30 other countries, including Canada and Mexico, have birthright citizenship. Despite near consensus on the illegality of unilaterally ending birthright citizenship, Vice-President Mike Pence said that the Constitution is not clear on the issue and that the language of the Constitution leaves open the possibility that only persons born in the U.S. to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents should automatically become citizens. At issue with the proposed policy is the language of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, which states, “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.” The language has long been universally interpreted to mean that any person born in the U.S. is automatically a U.S. citizen. Any proposed executive action would apparently seek to under-
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond MONETTE ADEVA MAGLAYA IT is November. And we are coming full circle. Again. A circle is perhaps the perfect geometric structure there is. Although some would claim the triangle or a square to be better structures because of their stable nature, the circle and all its derivatives — the orb, the sphere, the globe and every structure on earth and in the universe with a core, circumference and radii emanating from the core — can teach and even help us to understand much about nature, human life, its cycles and seasons, and ultimately, ourselves and perhaps, our place in all these. From the micro to the macro levels, every creative urge in every level —in both the intellectual and the physical realms— begins as a thought and if tenaciously pursued and fleshed out by one’s strength of will and purpose, proceeds from concept to completion as a circle. Even in the mundane reality of living an ordinary life from day to day, circles and cycles mark the patterns of our lives. Note nature’s seasons and cycles of birth and death, of sleep and wakefulness, of sunrise and sunset, of the waxing and waning of the moon and of the quarter million year rotation of the solar system around the core of our home galaxy, the
Health@Heart PHILIP S. CHUA, MD, FACS, FPCS A SCARY polio-like disease, which peaked every other year since 2014 and has stumped health officials all over the United States, is causing widespread concerns, especially among parents, in this country. Here’s a report from the CDC: “U.S. health officials are investigating an outbreak of a mysterious, polio-like disease that causes weakness in one or more limbs. The rare disease — acute flaccid myelitis, or AFM — has sickened 62 people, mostly children, in 22 states so far this year and is suspected in 65 more cases, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced October 16, 2018.” “Starting with an outbreak of 120 cases that brought the disease to national attention in 2014, close to 400 cases have been confirmed in the United States. So far, the CDC has been unable to figure out what’s causing the outbreaks. “This is a mystery,” Nancy Messonnier, director of the CDC’s National Center for Immunization and
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President Trump proposes ending birthright citizenship mine the amendment process by offering a different interpretation of the words of the 14th Amendment so as to not require any change to the Constitution. The Constitution is not subject to revision or reversal through executive action, instead requiring a 2/3rd majority vote in both houses of Congress and then ratified by 3/4th of state legislatures. However, some supporters of this proposed change argue that the language of current Amendment should be read as including only children of lawful residents or U.S citizens, though they do not cite any authority for this position. Human Rights advocates argue that eliminating birthright citizenship would create a permanent sub-class of children born in the United States. The executive director of Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, Kristen Clarke, roundly criticized the proposal stating, “The letter and spirit of the Fourteenth Amendment places those born in this country on equal footing, and an executive order that strips away citizenship would create a permanent group of second-class citizens and invite litigation.” Many legal experts suggest that it is unlikely that President Trump’s proposal could be successfully carried out, despite his party controlling both Houses of Congress and being in control of the U.S Supreme Court. However, recent events, including the election of President Trump, have shown that almost anything is possible and that the President’s proposal cannot simply be ignored. In the end, the proposal to end birthright citizenship my never actually be implemented. Perhaps, as some political pundits have suggested, this really is just a way to increase voter turnout for
the Republican party in a midterm election where Republican control of Congress is at jeopardy. While the legality and seriousness of the proposal is in question, it should serve as a reminder to everyone that we need to make our voices heard through the upcoming election. For non-U.S. citizens, who are obviously not eligible to vote next week, it is a reminder of the importance of U.S. citizenship. While your election efforts in 2018 may be limited to helping friends or family get to the polls or encouraging them to vote, it is also important to seriously consider applying to become a naturalized U.S. citizen. If you have been a lawful permanent resident for the required number of years, have good moral character, etc., now is the time stop being a green card holder and start being a U.S. citizen. The proposal to end birthright citizenship may not directly affect you, though it is likely to affect someone you know. Consult a knowledgeable and experienced immigration attorney today to discuss how and when this change may take effect, as well as the possibility of becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen. *** REEVES IMMIGRATION LAW GROUP is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration fi rms in the United States with offi ces in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Manila and China. For more Information please call (800) 7958009 or visit www.rreeves.com. Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case. (Advertising Supplement)
Circles, cycles and the season of our lives “To everything – turn, turn, turn. There is a season – turn, turn, turn And a time to every purpose under heaven.” –A song by The Byrds (based on the Book of Ecclesiastes) Milky Way and in the grandest of levels, the movement of a nearly infinite number of galaxies in the universe, the edge of which only the Creator knows. On the minutest level, the astounding movement of electrons around a nucleus and the wondrous flow of the human bloodstream from and to the heart are cyclical. As science has found out, blockages, either man-made or natural to the flow or movement in the processes existing in nature at all levels, can create anomalies, abnormalities and mutations, resulting in pain and illnesses in the human body and if uncorrected, result in diseases, debilitation and ultimately, DEATH. This presents a strong argument for regular exercise and physical movement, which pumps the smooth circulation of blood flow down to the tiniest capillaries in our eyes and strengthens the muscles of the heart. Nature moves in cycles. While the earth’s atmospheric cloak
adheres to the surface because of the gravitational pull of the earth’s mass, the hydrologic or water cycle will continue to maintain our seas and give us rain to sustain all planetary life — that is, for the time being —unless something unforeseen and catastrophic upsets and upends this delicate homeostaticlike balance. In a way, the life of our living, breathing planet is reflective of human life itself. “Life,” according to Einstein, “is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” And on that point, we are finding out Einstein is absolutely right. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com. To read past articles, click on the link Online: http://issuu.com/ asianjournaldigitaledition” http://issuu. com/asianjournaldigitaledition or you can do searches in the least invasive search engine duckduckgo or bing or yahoo even before agenda-driven google.
Polio-like mystery Respiratory Diseases in Atlanta, said during a news briefing. ‘We haven’t solved it yet’. Although the disease is frightening, fewer than one in a million people in the United States get AFM every year, based on CDC data collected since 2014.” What is AFM? Acute flaccid myelitis is a disease that afflicts the spinal cord, causing weakness of the arm or leg and loss of muscle tone. There could also be headache, neck pain, difficulty in speaking, swallowing or breathing. Respiratory failure is also part of the symptom complex in some cases. Affected children often start having a fever and respiratory problem and suddenly have weakness or paralysis of their limbs. Ninety percent of the cases this year were 18 and younger. This can worsen so fast that it is prudent to seek medical care immediately. What is the cause AFM? The U.S. CDC presently has no answer as to what is causing this rare mysterious polio-like entity. Between 2014 and 2016, the study on the 149 confirmed cases did not yield any causal agent. “Infections with viruses such as West Nile Virus, adenovirus, poliovirus and non-polio enteroviruses have led
to symptoms that match those of AFM. However, testing has shown that the U.S. cases since 2014 have not been caused by poliovirus,” reported the CDC. How was poliomyelitis eradicated? The first clinical description of Polio was made by British physician Michael Underwood in 1789. In 1840, Jacob Heine reported his studies that showed the involvement of the spinal cord. The first outbreak of polio in the United States was in Vermont, in 1894, with 132 cases. On March 26, 1953, Jonas Salk, an American researcher, announced his discovery of a vaccine against the crippling disease polio. The Salk vaccine was first used in 1955. Then came the oral polio vaccine developed by Albert Sabin in 1961. By 1979, thanks to the vaccines, poliomyelitis has been completely eliminated in the United States. Polio is also on the verge of being eradicated worldwide, except in Northern Nigeria and the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. What is the treatment for AFM? Since the etiology (cause) has not yet been determined, there is no cure for AFM at this time. PAGE B6
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2nd annual Cinematografo International Film Festival in San Francisco The second annual Cinematografo International Film Festival will be held from November 8 to 11 in San Francisco. The Cinematografo International Film Festival is the premier event for Filipinos abroad to tell their stories and the platform to bring these films to the world stage. The festival is an annual celebration of film and culture, highlighted by Cinematografo Originals – a co-production initiative to help filmmakers realize their stories on the big screen. On its second year, the festival’s theme is “Breaking Down Walls,” which refers not only to divisions along global political lines but also aims to empower storytellers in breaking through barriers in film and story whether in terms of subject matter, representation and cultural limitations. For more information, please visit https://cinematografofilmfestival.com/.
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FASGI presents FAIR art exhibit in Los Angeles FASGI is pleased to announce FAIR – FASGI Artists Impressions & Reflections – an art exhibit to be held from October 9, 2018 to November 9, 2018 at the FASGI Bayanihan Center (135 N. Park View St., Los Angeles, CA 90026). FAIR is presented as part of FASGI’s Arts Incubator Program. FAIR will showcase five internationally-acclaimed artists who will unveil new and original artworks: Rafael Maniago, Cesar Devera, Johnny Otilano, Mat Relox, and Tiinz Taruc. FASGI’s Arts Incubator Program was created in 2016 to promote and uplift Filipino and Filipino American arts and culture. The program’s mission is to: (1) help Filipino American artists to be properly recognized and given economic opportunities for advancement; (2) enable Filipino Americans to get in touch with their culture; and (3) to educate mainstream America on Philippine/American art. The program currently includes a permanent gallery, special exhibits, portraiture, parol-making, and an artist-in-residence program. Art workshops, instruction, and live projects are currently being planned for commencement in 2019.
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JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles features Sou Fujimoto: Futures of the Future exhibition JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles is pleased to announce the upcoming SOU FUJIMOTO: FUTURES OF THE FUTURE exhibition, taking place Oct. 27 - Dec. 12, 2018 at JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles, located at Hollywood & Highland. Named the Wall Street Journal’s Architecture Innovator of The Year in 2014, Fujimoto has designed public and private buildings around the world since establishing his atelier in 2000. This exhibition is a showcase of over 100 models and largescale photographs of past and current projects by the celebrated Japanese architect. Fujimoto addresses many opposite concepts, including the recurring theme the “primitive future.” This apparent contradiction refers to the primordial, intuitive moments that reconnect us with our own humanity, and open us up to new possibilities. His designs often feature juxtapositions of outside and inside, nature and urbanity, objects and spaces, public and private. And, his work considers the macro and micro: when does an object become a space? Exhibition dates from Oct. 27 to Dec. 12 are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, except Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Closed Thanksgiving Day 11/22). JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles is located at 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028 (inside Hollywood & Highland). Admission is free. For more information, please call (800) 516-0565 or visit https://www.japanhouse.jp/losangeles/events/.
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Art exhibit inspired by Filipino food movement in Santa Ana, CA In “Super Sarap” — from November 3 to December 15 at Gallery 6/67 — three artists Mik Gaspay, Jeanne Jalandoni, and O.M. France Viana revisit commonplace objects and food within Filipino cooking. Through sculpture and photography, the artists elicit personal and collective memories and offer cultural connections that go beyond the Philippine diaspora. The exhibition title, “Super Sarap,” fuses both English and Tagalog together, to hold multiple meanings. It can convey something that is extremely delicious, an expression of excitement and affirmation. Artists in “Super Sarap” play with these definitions and mutate symbols, making them both strange and familiar, challenging the expectations of cultural norms. It is guest curated by Patricia Cariño Valdez, an independent curator based in Oakland, CA. In addition to the exhibit, there will be two art and culinary events: an intimate four-course gourmet dinner prepared by acclaimed Orange County Chefs, Ross Pangilinan of Mix Mix Kitchen Bar on November 15 and Chef Ryan Garlitos of Irenia Restaurant on December 9 combined with an exhibition walk-through. The opening reception for Super Sarap will be on Saturday, November 3 from 6 to 9 p.m. Gallery 6/67 is located at 404 West 4th St., Suite K (2nd floor), Santa Ana, CA 92701. Gallery visits are by appointment. For more information about the exhibit and related events, visit https://www. gallery667.com.
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PUPAA-USA Inc. to host dinner/dance and installation of officers in Glendale, CA The Polytechnic University of the Philippines Alumni Association-USA, Inc., (PUPAA-USA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, will hold its installation of officers and board members on Saturday, November 10, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. at the Pacific Community Center (501 S. Pacific Avenue, Glendale, CA 91204). This will be a dinner and dance and membership night, holiday celebration. The net proceeds from this fundraising event will go to the PUPAA Scholarship Fund. This is a great opportunity to get together with former classmates, colleagues, friends, families and supporters. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn and get inspired of what PUPAA, USA Inc. has done and contributed to our Alma Mater and what it can offer for you! The Officers and Board Members to be installed are: Chairman of the Board, Dr. Oscar Jornacion, Vice Chairman of the Board, Dr. Henry Divina; President, Monette Santillan-Rivera; Executive Vice President, Vee Cristobal; Vice President-Job Placement, Honeylette Deleon; Vice President-Finance, Jun Mapoy; Vice President-Public Relations, Rosemarie Mejia; Vice Presidents-Membership, Evangeline Codilla and Sandra Dollano; Vice President-Ways and Means, Aimee Sarmiento; Secretary, Marissa Palanca; Treasurer and Accountant, Dr. Gerry Fernando; Auditor, Linda Santos; and Assistant Public Relations Officers, Connie Acosta and Virginia Herbito. For other related questions, please contact Monette Santillan-Rivera at (818) 970-8317, Sandra Dollano at (213) 570-3179 and Vangie Codilla at (818) 468-3386.
LA Department of Public Works to host recycling event for used oil and filters in Alhambra, CA Attention all Alhambra residents — Free Oil Filter & Motor Oil Recycling Event! Everyone is invited to bring in their used motor oil and used oil filters. All those who recycle their used oil filter will receive one FREE new Oil Filter. Recycling motor oil and filters helps save our environment and keeps our water clean. So don’t miss out – we’re making it easier for you to keep your car running smoothly and efficiently. It will be held on Saturday, November 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at O’Reilly Auto Parts (800 E. Valley Blvd. Alhambra, CA 91801).
Cecile Licad performs at Basilica benefit in San Francisco In San Francisco, Cecile will be performing live at the Centennial Piano Fundraising Concert for the Mission Dolores Basilica on Saturday, Nov. 10 at 7p.m. Mission Dolores Basilica Church will be celebrating its 100th Anniversary of completion in December 2018. As part of the celebration it is the Basilica’s goal to purchase a Steinway concert piano worthy of the its reputation and to support our ongoing concert series, as well as the worship life of the Parish. The Basilica Church, built between 1913 and 1918, features outstanding acoustics that have made it a premier performing arts destination for numerous Bay Area and international concerts artists and ensembles. Its existing piano needs replacement due to years of heavy use for worship services and concerts. For Tickets, visit: https://www.cityboxoffice.com/ordertickets.asp?p=10336&src =eventperformances. Cecile Licad is one of the youngest musicians to receive the prestigious Leventritt Gold Medal. Cecile displays her daring musical instinct and superb training with every performance. As an orchestral soloist, this legendary master pianist boasts a repertoire spanning centuries of classical music. She has performed with the world’s most prestigious orchestras throughout four decades. More recently, Cecile received critical acclaim for her volume Anthology of American Piano Music album. She continues touring North America, Europe and Asia. Released this month of November, “American Landscapes” is Volume 3 of the highly acclaimed three-volumne Anthology of American Piano Music recorded by Cecile. Works by Aaron Copland, Anthony Philip Heirich, Percy Grainger, William Mason, Edward MacDowell, Arthur Farwell, Leo Ornstein, William Grant and Arthur Farwell are featured in Cecile’s latest CD. To purchase Cecile’s CD, contact St. Paul Alumnae USA at spmausa@gmail.com.
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B November 8-14, 2018 • LAS veGAS ASIAN JoUrNAL
Zsa Zsa Padilla remembers Dolphy through a treasured watch by Alfred
BAyle Inquirer.net
ZSA ZSA Padilla was hit by a wave of sentimentality when a treasured watch she once gave to Dolphy came back from the repair shop. Padilla updated her Instagram account on Nov. 5 with a snapshot of the watch she and Dolphy “shared,� along with a long caption which told its story. The watch was apparently a gift Padilla gave to Dolphy several years ago. However, oddly enough, whenever the King of Comedy would wear the watch it would never tell the correct time. Having little patience for such trivial things, the watch ended up
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appeared to suit her tastes more than Dolphy’s anyway. Eventually Padilla just asked for the watch back and Dolphy just smiled at her. She and Dolphy apparently also had similar wrist sizes, so there was no need to adjust the strap. Padilla wrote that she had nearly forgotten about the watch after she had left it at a shop for repairs. A text from the repair shop reminded her of where the watch had been. Dolphy and Padilla had been in Zsa Zsa Padilla a domestic partnership for more Photo from Instagram/@zsazsapadilla than 20 years before the King of Comedy passed away on July 10, getting little use. It was around this time that 2012. His death was mourned by Padilla started borrowing the the entire showbiz industry and watch. She claimed the design by Dolphy’s many fans.
Polio-like mystery
Management basically consists of treating the symptoms and physical or occupational therapy for limb weakness. A few patients who had AFM recovered for no clear reason, but most did not. This illness, believed to be viral in nature, commonly occurs in the late summer and autumn. Investigations are ongoing to discover the cause of this dreaded illness, reminiscent of the polio epidemic of 1916, when it occurred each summer in various cities of the USA. The worst was in 1949, where 2,720 died, and 42,173 cases were also noted in UK and Canada. US-CDC recommends seeking medical consultation at the very first suspicious symptom/sign of AFM. *** Anti-Cancer: Exercise and Veggies Women who don’t smoke, and who eat vegetable-rich diet and exercise daily cut their cancer risk by 30 percent, reported the World Cancer research Fund International and the American Institute for Cancer Research. The studies also recommend the following habits to prevent chronic diseases: abstinence from tobacco; moderation in alcohol intake, better yet abstinence; limiting red meat, fat and salt; not gaining more than 11 pounds after age 18; exercising daily; eating omega-3 rich fishes three times a week, and five or more portions of vegetables, nuts, and fruits daily. Eating salads loaded with meat or eggs or dressings with a lot of fats defeats the
purpose. Salad with olive oil and vinegar is preferred. Veggies combined And talking about vegetables, a combination of broccoli and mushrooms have been found to have a more powerful cancerfighting properties than when eaten alone. Studies suggest that certain nutrients, when combined, become more effective anti-cancer agents. Selenium (found in mushrooms, nuts, sunflower seeds) and Sulforaphane (broccoli, watercress and cabbage) are two such nutrients. Ginger has two anti-cancer compounds in it: 6-gingerol and 6-paradol. These substances help inhibit cell transformations that could lead to the formation of cancer. The higher concentration of these ingredients are found in fresh ginger. The fresher, the better. Fasting is out, #NoRice is in Fasting is the wrong way to start, or even “punctuate,� your dieting schedule. Fasting has no place at all in controlling weight or quality of nutrition for our body. The temporary weight loss resulting from fasting is thru water loss (dehydration). The best way to maintain your weight is to burn the calories your take in daily (Example: If you take in 2000 calories, you should exercise off 2000 calories that day). It is a matter of intake and output, an obvious common sense approach. If one is overweight and wants to lose weight, then the calories burned should be higher than the calories ingested, until the goal is
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OPM greats pay tribute to Rico J by dolly
Anne CArvAjAl Inquirer.net
IN a business full of copycats, Rico J. Puno was an original. Nobody sounded and grooved like Coriks (his pet name) did. The Total Entertainer’s raspy voice, unique style and naughtiness set him apart. Rico J’s timeless hits comprise the soundtrack of our lives. OPM could very well stand for “Original Puno Music� because his songs reverberate in our hearts. My fondest memory of Mr. Macho Gwapito is his ribbing me about an ex of mine every time we see each other. I shot back: “I have moved on from that controversial chapter of my love life. It seems you are the one who has not moved on from it.� We both had a good laugh. Rico J’s son, Rox, is a friend of mine. Just like his dad, he is a great performer. During one of Rox’s gigs, he called up his dad so I could chat with Coriks. Thank you for the music and the laughter, Rico J. “May Bukas Pa� ang OPM because of the incredible legacy you left behind. OPM greats pay tribute to Rico J NOEL CABANGON. Rico J made me laugh so hard that I almost couldn’t breathe. Bentangbenta sa akin ang mga green jokes niya. Never a boring moment with him at the dressing room while waiting for your turn. I will never forget how down-to-earth he was and how he loved to tell stories about his struggles. Spindle was where I first met him in the ’80s, where I had some of my gigs. His life is an inspiration. I never thought I’d meet an OPM legend like him. JIM PAREDES. I have many memories of Rico J. He was a
reached‌and at that point, the maintenance intake and output formula should prevail. Those who want to gain weight to reach the ideal weight, obviously, should have more intake than output of calories. Minimizing rice, white or brown, or better yet eliminating rice from our diet, greatly helps, not only in weight control and reducing or preventing belly bulge, but in our general health, metabolic and cardiovascular. Today, #NoRice is in. Helping, religion, improve longevity A recent report of a 5-year study among older people revealed that those in the habit of praying and helping others, providing support, love and care to friends or family were 60 percent less likely to die, compared to “unhelpfulâ€? people. This includes running errands, assisting in house chores, childcare, etc. It suggests that having a purpose in life, having religion, and serving our fellowmen are healthy for the body, not only for the soul. This, of course, is not limited to the PAGE B4 older people only. *** do, even if it’s stupid. Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Wife: You will just feel it when Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and she’s the one you want to spend chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 forever with. No basis. at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he What’s stopping you and Maja holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, from taking your friendship to the is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of next level? the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine Maja and I are just starting to College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley build a beautiful friendship. It’s too Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the early to be thinking of romance. We chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a will just let nature take its course. 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United What do you find hard to unStates. Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com derstand about women?
Rico J. Puno
Inquirer.net photo
funny guy who was great to have around. He always had a joke to share. We did a few concerts together. One that stands out was when we were all still young. Must have been at least 30 years ago, probably more. We were attending an OPM afternoon party. There were musical instruments there. I picked up the guitar. Ric Segreto picked up the bass. Martin Nievera and Rico J volunteered as singers. We sang our hearts out that afternoon. WENCY CORNEJO. Coriks and I were part of a Valentine show two years ago. He didn’t show up for rehearsals. He was three hours late for the call time on the day of the show, and when he finally showed up, he wanted a key change to one of his songs (not an easy thing to do, considering he did not attend rehearsals). Definitely a male diva. We all were just waiting for him to implode during the show, but like the consummate artist that he was, he delivered a flawless performance and stole the night from right under all the other performers’ noses. The music industry definitely lost a genius with his passing.
HAJJI ALEJANDRO. Rico J was one of my closest friends. We started in the business at the same time in the mid-’70s. I’ve always enjoyed his company because he was such a fun person to be with. He led a colorful life, which explained his never-ending, exciting, funny stories just about everything under the sun. There’s no idle moment when you’re with him. He was passionate about everything he did, be it singing, politics, playing golf or his recent love for interior designing. Even before becoming a public servant, he touched the lives of so many people in the most positive way. That’s why everyone I know has a good story to tell about Coriks. I believe, even at 65, he had lived a full life. His songs and memory will live forever in our hearts. CHAD BORJA. In the ’90s, we had a TV guesting at Metropolitan Theater, along with Ariel Rivera and Hajji Alejandro. Our production number was one that we had prerecorded, which meant that the actual show would be lip-synched. Rico J was notorious for not attending rehearsals or blockings, because he liked everything to be spontaneous and unscripted. During our segment, I was signaling to him that his part was coming, but it was too late because by the time he brought the mic to his mouth, the track was already playing someone else’s voice. Right after our number, Rico J told our director, Al Quinn, “Direk, sa susunod huwag mo akong isama sa mga ito ha, kasi hindi ako marunong mag-lip-synch.� He somehow turned the situation to make it seem like it was our fault, and not his. That’s how humorous he was.
What’s stopping Zanjoe and Maja from... Mood swings. But, what the heck, men still go crazy for women. Would you take an ex back? Haven’t done it. Maybe or maybe not. It will depend on a lot of factors like why we broke up and our willingness to correct our past mistakes. Are you open to the idea of working with your ex, Bea, and her boyfriend, Gerald? I’m fine with it. As long as the story is good and the role I will portray is one that I can
give justice to. What will it take for a girl to pin you down? She must be smart, fun to be with and [be able to] cook well. If your life story would be made into a movie, what would the title be? “World War Z� Whose death impacted you the most? Fernando Poe Jr. and Marlon Brando. I have always wanted to meet them.
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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEmbER 8-14, 2018
B
B8 NOVEMBER 8-14, 2018 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL
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Located in Montemaria, home to the ninth largest monument in the World—the shrine to Mother Mary,Tower of Peace.
A world-class township development located in Montemaria, Batangas City, the Philippines.
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THE TOTAL LAND AREA OF THE MONTEMARIA DEVELOPMENT IS APPROXIMATELY 130 HECTARES WHICH INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING TOWNSHIP* PROJECTS: 01 Condominiums, hotels, and resorts 02 Commercial developments such as a shopping center which includes restaurants and cafes 03 Golf Course and Water Park 04 Spa and Wellness Centers 05 Marina and Fisherman’s Wharf 06 Housing, residential subdivision, and retirement village 6XEMHFW WR ƓQDO GHYHORSPHQW SODQ TOTAL LAND AREA 2.1 Hectares
INVESTMENT HIGHLIGHTS
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DATE OF COMPLETION Second Quarter of 2020 TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS PHASE 1 866 Units BUILDING 1 164 units
BUILDING 2 Clubhouse
Lombard By The Bay is a joint venture development project between 3UHPLHU $VLD 3DFLĆ“F 5HDO (VWDWH DQG Development Corp.and Omnicor ,QGXVWULDO (VWDWH 5HDOW\ &HQWHU ,QF
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