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volume 28 - no. 47 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages
n o v e mbe r 3 0 - de c e mbe r 6 , 2 0 1 7
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Duterte dispels fears of dictatorship DATELINE USA Over 200 companies amid push for Constitutional change urge FCC to maintain from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
by Dana
SioSon AJPress
net neutrality
more than 200 businesses and organizations have signed and released a joint open letter to the federal Communications Commission (fCC) on monday, November 27, urging it to maintain net neutrality regulations. the letter comes three weeks ahead of December 14, the date during which the fCC intends to vote on rolling back current net neutrality rules. Advocates of net neutrality say doing so will remove protections that ensure a free and open internet. included in the letter’s large list of companies are Airbnb, Automattic (owner of WordPress), Codeacademy, Github, Pinterest, tumblr (despite being owned by Verizon), sonos, square, squarespace, and twitter to name a few. these companies join other giants like Amazon, Apple, facebook, and Google who have openly advocated for net neutrality. the letter was fittingly released on Cyber monday, a day the letter called a “testament to the power of the free and open internet”. it cites that $400 billion in online sales were made
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Controversial GOP tax bill on its way to Senate passage Pres. Trump eager to sign major overhaul of U.S. tax code that reduces corporate income tax rePUBliCANs in the senate on tuesday, November 28, made a significant move in furthering the passage of the major tax overhaul, a key platform for republicans this year. Along with some senators, the senate Budget Committee voted (along party lines) to pass the republicans’ $1.5 trillion tax package on tuesday. Previously, the bill’s passage seemed uncertain, but due to some last-minute deals, the bill was able to garner support from some republicans on the hill who had previously expressed concern over the bill, particularly its effect on small businesses and the overall deficit. on November 16, the house had approved a rewrite of the original bill, called house tax Cuts and Jobs Act, and is looking for approval in the senate this week. if passed in the senate, both the house and the senate will have to consolidate on a version that will pass both chambers, likely giving republicans their first legislative victory in the trump administration.
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While emphasizing the need to amend the Constitution to address corruption, Philippine President rodrigo Duterte on tuesday, November 28, allayed fears that he would become a dictator. “Do not be afraid of dictatorship. i am not aiming for it. i do not ask it and i do not like it,” Duterte said in a speech during the birthday celebration
of Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCor) president and lawyer Alfredo lim. Duterte, who has been pushing for a shift to federalism, underscored the need for a legislation that would “stop corruption” by limiting the powers of key government officials, including the chief executive’s. “i am addressing myself to Congress. let us amend the Constitution. shorten or restrict the powers of everybody, including the presidency but make a
Constitution that would mandate more accountability and responsibility of officials,” the president said. “if you can craft a law wherein i would also put my own inputs there and it would guarantee everybody or stop corruption, do not be afraid to amend the law,” he added. Under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, congressmen and local government executives are limited to serve three consecutive terms for the same public offices, while senators are
limited to two consecutive terms of six years each. A president, on the other hand, is allowed to only serve a single term of six years. While pushing for a Constitutional change, Duterte denied that he had the intention of becoming a dictator as claimed by his critics. he also reiterated his commitment to step down from his post once a new Constitution is approved.
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Poe to Duterte: Don’t step down, finish your term by Maila
ager Inquirer.net
seNAtor Grace Poe has this friendly advice to President rodrigo Duterte, who has repeatedly expressed his readiness to resign from his post: Just finish your term. this after Duterte made a remark on tuesday, Nov. 28, that he would like Poe to become president someday but the Constitution must be amended first to allow foundlings like her to run for the post. “Unang-una ako ay nagpapasalamat sa tiwala ng ating Pangulo. malaking bagay yan personally at politically at salamat sa pagpapahalaga sa mga foundlings. Pero ang ating Pangulo ang pinili ng ating mga kababayan at dapat tapusin nya ang kanyang termino. (First of all, i thank our president for his trust. it’s a big thing, personally and politically, and thank you also for putting importance on foundlings. But, the president was chosen by the people and he should finish his term),”
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Senator Grace Poe
Inquirer.net photo
BANGSAMORO ASSEMBLY. President Rodrigo Duterte does his signature pose with (from left) Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) Chairman Ghadzali Jaafar, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Central Committe Chairman Yusoph Jikiri, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque and other guests who attended the Bangsamoro Assembly held at the Old Provincial Capital in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on Monday, November 27. Malacañang photo by Albert Alcain
House vows to pass BBL by March 2018 by Dana
SioSon AJPress
A sPeCiAl session to tackle the proposed Bangsamoro Basic law (BBl) is no longer needed as the house has already given its commitment to pass the bill by march next year, according to house majority leader rodolfo fariñas. fariñas on tuesday, November 28, said house speaker Pantaleon Alvarez has already committed to pass the BBl before the 17th Congress adjourns on march 21, 2018. With Congress scheduled to go
on Christmas break from December 16, 2017 to January 14, 2018, fariñas also noted that even if the house decides to hold a special session, they “can’t compress the schedule to discuss the BBl.” earlier on monday, November 27, President rodrigo Duterte expressed intent to call a special session of Congress to tackle the BBl. “i will work very hard for it. i will ask Congress to [hold] a special session just to hear you talk about this issue. i said this is sacred. this is important and valuable. it would involve eventually,
if the people wish it, a new structure for the entire country,” Duterte said in a speech during the first Bangsamoro Assembly in sultan Kudarat, maguindanao. “if not, then let us work out a way as long as we make sure that we can give our brothers and sisters, especially the moros, an arrangement that is acceptable to them. i know you are realists,” the president added. the BBl was supposed to be the legal framework of the peace deal between the previous Aquino administration and
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Palace: PDEA still the lead agency in drug war Gadon on Sereno impeachment case:‘Boxing match’is over by Dana
SioSon AJPress
the Philippine Drug enforcement Agency (PDeA) remains in charge of leading the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign, malacañang clarified monday, November 27. in a media briefing, Palace spokesperson harry roque pointed out that the drug war “remains” with the PDeA until President rodrigo Duterte signs a document stating otherwise. But while Duterte is still “inclined” to return the drug war to the Philippine National Police (PNP), roque said the chief executive has yet to make the final decision regarding the matter. “okay. it is safe to reveal that the president, while inclined to return it to the PNP has not PDEA chief of operations David Maramba (in black shirt) looks over the filing of made up completely his mind,” roque told re- Rep. Reynaldo Umali (left), chairman of the House Committee on Justice, chats with Speaker charges against two women at the office of Assistant City Prosecutor Noel Cellona. Inquirer.net photo by Jun Mendoza
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Pantaleon Alvarez during the impeachment proceedings at the House of Representatives. ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez
for lawyer lorenzo “larry” Gadon, the “boxing match” is already over now that he has already proven his point in his allegations against Chief Justice maria lourdes sereno. A delighted Gadon on Wednesday, November 29, said he is “more than vindicated” by the testimony of supreme Court Associate Justice teresita de Castro during the house justice committee’s deliberation on his impeachment complaint against sereno. “i am very happy because i’m more than vindicated because what honorable Justice De Castro has said in her testimony confirmed everything that i have stated in my
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november 30-december 6, 2017 • LAS veGAS ASIAn JoUrnAL
From The FronT Page
Duterte dispels fears of dictatorship... PAGE A1 “In the event that Congress comes up with an anti-corruption Constitution, I will step down at the end of the year. That is a commitment, a guarantee,” Duterte said. “Make me a Constitution that would do away with a long suffering corruption-ridden country and I would be willing to just step out so you won’t be afraid that I
am just after being a dictator,” he further stressed. In the same speech, Duterte also slammed a communist group for calling him “a dictator, an executioner, [and] somebody corrupt.” Last week, exiled Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison tagged tagged Duterte as the “number one terrorist” in the country
after the collapse of peace talks between the government and communist rebels. Citing the supposed “despotic, criminal and corrupt character” of the present administration, Sison also claimed that Duterte is scheming “to set up a fascist dictatorship.” ‘Shoot armed NPA rebels’ On Wednesday, November 29, Duterte ordered the police and the military to shoot armed members of the New People’s Army (NPA). “So what will be my orders? ‘Di shoot them. Eh they will kill you anyway. So if there is an armed NPA there or terrorists, if he’s holding any firearms, shoot,” Duterte said in a speech in Sual, Pangasinan. He noted that both the military and the NPA, the armed wing of the CPP, are now on the offensive after the peace negotiations between the government and communists rebels were terminated last week. The president has accused the communists rebels of making unreasonable demands, including their what-he-described as “pure nonsense” proposal for a coalition government. Duterte also threatened to reclassify them as “terrorists,” citing their atrocities against civilians. Amid his order to shoot armed NPA members, Duterte assured troops that he is willing to defend them if they accidentally kill innocent civilians in cases of mistaken identity. He said the military and the police can justify their accidental killings of civilians if “in good faith you believe you are being followed by a killer and, by your standards as a police [officer], you believe in good faith that the guy there is going to slaughter you.” “Kung balut vendor pala ang binira mo, pasensya, tawagin mo ako at aregluhin natin (If you killed a balut vendor, sorry, call me and let’s settle it)… Those are what you would call in the law [as] mistaken identity… which is really an exempting circumstance,” said the president. He added that the officers should likewise not be afraid of being questioned by human rights groups as he told them, “Do not answer if that issue of human rights, you say, ‘Go to Duterte. It is and was his order.’” n
FOOTSTEPS OF JESUS
( Mt Carmel, Mt Beatitude, Mt.Tabor, Cana, Capernum, Nazareth, Mt. of Olives, Old & New Jerusalem, Bethlehem Qumran, Masada, Jericho )
Dec 3 to 14, 2017
President Rodrigo Duterte received last July 17 a draft of the new Bangsamoro Basic Law. Joining him were (from left) Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, Moro Islamic Liberation Front Chairman Murad Ebrahim, Bangsamoro Transition Commission Chair Ghazali Jaafar, and MILF Peace Implementing Panel Chair Mohagher Iqbal. Malacañang photo by Rolando Mailo
House vows to pass BBL by March... PAGE A1 the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). It, however, failed to get Congress’ approval amid concerns over its legality and public outcry in connection with the botched 2015 operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao that led to the deaths of 44 elite cops. Despite his push for the passage of BBL, Duterte maintained that there would only be one Republic of the Philippines. “There must be one nation for all, and one Republic of the Philippines for all of us Moro and Christians… We must have only one Philippines. I cannot bargain it away,” the president stressed.
Duterte said Congress could hold a special session for one or two days to hear BBL proponents but did not cite specific date. Article VI, Section 15 of the 1987 Constitution states that “the President may call a special session at any time.” In a statement on Tuesday, Malacañang clarified that Duterte was not rushing to have the BBL passed by the end of the year. “He only emphasized that if need be, he will call Congress for a special session. He did not intend or did not limit the time frame this year or the remaining part of December,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a media briefing. But based on Duterte’s pro-
nouncement, Roque noted it’s “very clear” that the president “has given top priority to the passage of the BBL.” “I don’t want to pressure Congress right now but I think they have received the message that this is one of the top priorities of the administration,” the Palace official said. Fariñas, for his part, expressed confidence that there would enough votes from House members to pass the measure. “I’m very confident that under the tutelage and leadership of the Speaker we can convince House members to grant the president’s wish to pass this law, and the leadership also feels that this is indeed needed,” he said. n
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our people’s votes are sacred. So, if you were voted into leadership for six years, you should finish your term.)” “Kung kelangan talaga natin magkaroon ng Charter change, sabi ko nga dapat hindi padalosdalos at siguro pagkatapos na ng kanyang termino. (If we really need a Charter change, I said that it should not be rushed and maybe do it after our president’s term),” she added. Poe said her being a foundling should not be used as a reason to change the entire Constitution.
Besides, she pointed out that no less than the Supreme Court had already ruled that foundlings like her could run for the post. “Pagdating sa mga ampon na katulad ko at mga foundlings, sa tingin ko naman malinaw na ang naging decision ng Korte Suprema. Ako’y nagpapasalamat dito na mismo na rin ang ating Pangulo ay iginagalang ito. (When it comes to adopted children like me, and foundlings, I think the decision of the Supreme Court is clear. I am thankful that even our president acknowledges it),” she said. n
Poe to Duterte: Don’t step down, finish... Poe told reporters on Wednesday, Nov. 29. The senator reminded Duterte that he was elected by Filipinos for a six-year term and that he should finish it. So when asked if the President should just drop his Charter change (Cha-Cha) initiatives so he could step down, Poe said: “Basta ako kasi naniniwala ako na sagrado ang boto ng ating mga kababayan. So kung ikaw ay itinalaga ng anim na taon, dapat talaga na tapusin mo yung termino na yun. (I believe
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Ho�� �hursda� - Go�� Frida� - Eas�e� Vigi� March 23 to April 3, 2018 Spiritual Director: Rev. Fr. Chin Van Dang
Spiritual Director: Rev. Fr. Alvin Cachola
Day 1 - March 23, 2018 (Fri) Los Angeles, California to Venice, Italy Trans-Atlantic flight from LAX to LHR connect to our flight to Venice. (Meals served in-flight)
Day 2 - March 24, 2018 (Sat) Venice, Italy 3 DEC-Day 1 - (Sun) LAX/TLV On board meals are served
After we clear Immigration & Customs, we will meet our Tour Director and driver for our transfer to our hotel, Dinner at the hotel. (Dinner) If time permits, discover the most romantic views of Venice on foot and from the comfortable seats of a gondola, spend some time gliding through the cities peaceful canals.
4 DEC-Day 2 - (Mon) - Arrive at Ben Gurion airport Tel-Aviv/Tiberias
Day 3 - March 25, 2018 (Sun) Venice, Italy
After you have finished Immigration, collect Luggage then Meet our guide and driver. Transfer to Tiberias , Dinner /overnight Gai Beach Hotel
5 DEC-Day 3 - (Tues) Cesarea /Haifa
There was a certain man in Caesarea” Drive north to the sparkling port city of Haifa, viewing Caesarea en route, the city built by Herod. In Haifa, we will ascend Mt. Carmel; home of the two prophets Elijah and Elisha, Visit the Stella Maris Church celebrate Holy Mass in the main Altar, after enjoy the panoramic view of the Mediterranean, continue to Tiberias for dinner and overnight. Gai Beach Hotel (BB,D)
6 DEC-Day 4 - (Wed) - Tiberias/ Cana/ Nazareth
Holy Eucharist at the Church of annunciation “And Mary said, Behold I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” We head to Cana of Galilee, where Our Lord performed the first miracle – changing water into wine at the wedding feast. Here, we’ll invite couples to renew their marriage vows. Continue to Nazareth, Celebrate Holy Eucharist at the Church of Annunciation, visit St Joseph workshop. We return to Gai Beach Hotel for our dinner and overnight. (BB/D)
07 Dec-Day 5 - (Thurs) Mt Tabor/Mt Beatitude/Capernum/ Sea of Galilee/Tabgha
We drive to Mount Tabor, celebrate Holy Eucharist at the church of Transfiguration, Visit Mt. of Beatitudes the site of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus preached to the people. enjoy a scenic boat ride across the Sea of Galilee to Capernaum, home of Our Lord during his ministry. After visiting the Synagogue where he taught, proceed to Tabgha, the site of the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Gai Beach Hotel for our dinner and overnight. (BB/D)
08 DEC-Day 6 - (FRI)-Jordan valley/Jericho/Bethany/Jerusalem
The greatness of Venice has always been reflected in the richness of St. Mark’s Basilica, the perfect synthesis of Venetian art and a unique blend of Byzantine, Romanesque and Gothic elements. Five Orientallooking domes crown the shadowy, mysterious interior gleaming with golden mosaics, colored marbles, precious stones and pearls, and guarded by the four gilded bronze horses that stand proudly atop the central entrance. The glittering mosaics of the interior tell the story of St. Mark and episodes from the Bible. It’s most famous treasure stands behind the altar in the sanctuary - the Pala D’Oro, a golden altar screen encrusted with jewels. Holy Mass at St. Mark’s Basilica We’ll visit theDoge’s Palace, the magnificent Venetian-Gothic building from where the leaders of the former Venetian Republic ruled until the late 18th century. Head inside and explore the grandiose public chambers that the doges lavished with fine art and ornamentation. Masterpieces by Renaissance champions. (BB, D)
Day 4 - March 26, 2018 (Mon) Venice to San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
After breakfast, we will spend the day travelling from Venice to San Giovanni Rotondo, the home of Padre Pio of Pietrelcina from 28 July, 1916 until his death on 23 September, 1968. Sit back, relax and enjoy the drive and take in the picturesque scenery along the way. We will reach our hotel in San Giovanni Rotondo in the afternoon. Will have panoramic sightseeing on the way to our hotel, (BB, D).
Day 5 - March 27, 2018 (Tues) San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
Drive the Jordan Valley to Jericho, the oldest inhabited city in the world. View the Mount of temptation, where Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the desert. Visit the ancient ruins of the wall. Drive through Wadi Welt to view St George’s Monastery. Continue to Bethany celebrate Holy Eucharist, and then visit the tomb of Lazarus. Arrive in Mount Scopus; enjoy the first view of Jerusalem. Dinner and overnight at Notre DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB,D)
We begin the day by celebrating Holy Eucharist, followed by a short film about St. Padre Pio. Done by our local guides who are very knowledgeable about the life of St. Padre Pio. We’ll start our visit with the Old Church. Here you can see his cell, his confessional box, the crucifix from which he received the stigmata, and nearly everything he owned or touched, carefully preserved and labeled. Then will visit the New Basilica, Santa Maria delle Grazie (Our Lady of Grace) dedicated to Padre Pio. (BB, D)
09 DEC-Day 7 - (Sat) - Jerusalem (old City) - Via Dolorosa
Day 6 March 28,2018 (Wed) San Giovanni Rotondo
Holy Sepulcher Church “And he bearing his cross went forth into a place of a skull, which was called in Hebrew Golgotha” Enter the old city of Jerusalem, Sing a hymn in the Church of St Anne and view the pool of Bethesda. Visit the Chapel of Flagellation, Lithostrotos, where the soldiers played the Game of Kings, and Arch of the “Ecce Homo”. Follow the Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross) to the holiest shrine in Christendom, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, visit Golgotha and the tomb of Our Lord. This afternoon drive to Mount Zion, to visit the upper room, revered as the site of the last supper. Then survey the Dormition Abbey’s, St. Peter in Gallicantu, where Peter denied Jesus three times. Dinner and overnight at NOTRE DAME Vatican Hotel (BB.D)
10 DEC-Day 8 - (SUN) - Mount of Olives/Gethesemane/Bethlehem/New City
Holy Eucharist celebration at the Church of all nations Main altar Arrive at the Mount of Olives and enjoy the beautiful view of Jerusalem. Visit the Chapel of Ascension, Pater Noster Church and the Dominus Flevit Church”God wept “& walk the Palm Sunday road to the Garden of Gethesemane and the Church of all Nations. This Afternoon drive to Bethlehem, a city whose name the whole world recognizes ,visit the Church of Nativity, the manger, Church of St Catherine, The Grotto of St Jerome, and the shepherds fields. Dinner and overnight at NOTRE DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB ,D)
11 DEC-Day 9 - ( MON) - Jerusalem/Dead Sea/Qumran/Masada
Visit the Western Wall , the only part of the Herodian temple still standing and the most sacred place in the world for Jews. We drive to Dead Sea, the lowest spot on earth. Visit Qumran; see the caves where the Dead Sea scrolls were discovered. Continue to Masada, visit Herod’s fortress and the Jew’s last stronghold against the Roman. Return to Jerusalem Overnight Notre Dame Vatican Hotel (BB,D)
12 DEC-Day10 - (TUE) Jerusalem New City
Return to the new City, Including the Temple Model to see a scale model of Jerusalem as it was during the time of Jesus. Here we will have a better understanding between old and New Jerusalem. Next to Ein Karem, birthplace of St John the Baptist, visit the Visitation church where Mary proclaimed her famous “Magnificat Overnight NOTRE DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB,D)
13 Dec-Day 11 - (WED) Jerusalem/TLV/LAX
Breakfast rest of the morning Free time early PM dinner has to check out from the hotel, around 8:30 PM flight from TLV/ LAX in the 13 Dec flight depart TLV at 1:00 Am Dec 14,2017 ( end of Service )
Holy Eucharist in the Morning in the New Basilica. Followed by Station of the Cross. Rest of day spend praying and meditating (BB, D)
Day 7 – March 29, 2018 (Thur) San Giovanni Rotondo to Siena, Italy
After breakfast, we will spend the day travelling from San Giovanni Rotondo to Siena. We will begin in the old town center with a visit to the Basilica of San Domenico. Built in the 13th century, it is a treasure chest of Renaissance art and is dedicated to St. Catherine of Siena. You’ll learn about the city’s history while admiring its cathedrals, museums, and libraries. Then admire famous Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s great medieval squares.(BB, D) Continue to Assisi overnight/Dinner
Day 8 - March 30 2018 (Fri) Assisi to Florence (Good Friday)
Celebrate Holy Eucharist in the Crypt where the tomb of the most beloved saints is located, after Mass visit the Basilica of St Francis, we’ll also visit the Basilica of St. Claire. After Lunch continue to Florence Best known for its leather goods, the best in the world Leather (BB, D) Free time in the afternoon. Dinner/Overnight
Day 9 - March 31, 2018 (Sat) Florence to Rome
2 hrs. early walking tours of Florence, before we continue to Rome We will have a guided walking tour of this fascinating city with its Piazza, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery of St. John the Baptist, Continue to Rome. Upon our arrival in Rome,Lunch break near the Vatican , followed by Guided tours of the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel. See the Largest church in Roman Catholicism, St Peter Basilica, see the Crypt of St Pope John Paul (BB, D) Transfer to the Hotel/Overnight
Day 10 April 1, 2018 (Sun ) Rome
EASTER SUNDAY MASS, VATICAN SQUARE FOLLOWED BY PAPAL BLESSING Visit the Major Basilicas like St Mary Majors. John Lateran, the Holy Stairs, St. Paul Outside the Wall, St. Peter’s in Chain, Santa Croce of Jerusalem, afternoon see Imperial Rome, and short visit to the Trevi Fountain on the way to the hotel (BB, D) Dinner in the hotel
Day 11 April 2, 2018 (Mon) Rome Free time in Rome ( BB,D)
Day 12 April 3, 2018 (Mon) Rome – USA
Transfer to the airport for our flight back to USA, End of our memorable Pilgrimage
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Apple removes games that imitate bloody war on drugs ported that the games could not be searched in its application store now. In its letter sent to Apple, ANPUD said that the games are “unacceptable.” The group said they are “disappointed as well as offended having to witness such a disgusting attempt to normalize mass murders and impunity through virtual games available in the App store.” Dela Rosa, at a chance interview at the Supreme Court, lamented that ANPUD may have had a wrong idea about the government’s drug war that only involves killings. He said: “Mali man yun na interpretation sa Tokhang. Hindi naman patayan ang Tokhang. Makikiusap lang. Kakatukin ang bahay ng person of interest, na please itigil mo ang involvement sa drugs.” (That is a wrong interpretation of Tokhang. Tokhang does not
involve killings. Police will only knock at the house of a person of interest and request the resident to stop being involved with drugs.) Dela Rosa, during the launch of the game October last year, was seen enjoying the mobile application. The endless runner game titled, “Tsip Bato Ang Bumangga Giba” allows you to catch criminals (in green masks), while avoiding obstacles like pedestrians and other vehicles. You can move the character by swiping on your phone screens. Duterte easily won over more than 16 million votes in the campaign last year with a promise to ruthless rid the country of drugs. Duterte’s campaign courted criticism from local and international human rights groups due to the more than 12,000 deaths under the continuing drug war. (Philstar.com)
Controversial GOP tax bill on its way...
year, House Speaker Paul Ryan and other key congressional Republicans marketed it as a saving grace for middle-class Americans. The current version of the tax bill being debated on the Senate floor this week would affect nearly all Americans. In general, the bill would affect families very differently depending on children. Depending on income, married couples without children would see far fewer tax cuts than those with children. Moreover, about 70 percent of these couples that take the standard deduction would see a doubling of the standard deduction but would see the elimination of the personal exemption. Meanwhile, the lowest incomeearners would benefit from the doubling of the standard deduction and the expansion of the child tax credit, which was saved by a handful of Republicans as well as Trump’s daughter Ivanka. All in all, the nonpartisan Urban Institute-Brookings Institution’s Tax Policy Center stated that through the House bill, in 2018, those that belong on the lowest 20 percent of the income spectrum would see an average tax cut of $60. The next 20 percent would receive an average cut of $310 and the next would see an average savings of $830. In ten years, these income groups would see lower and lower tax cuts. These cuts generally mirror the ones detailed in the Senate bill. The Senate is currently reviewing the bill with a vote scheduled later in the week. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)
TECHNOLOGY giant Apple has removed mobile games that imitate the Philippine officials shooting down and catching criminals from its application store. In a statement, the Asian Network of People who Use Drugs (ANPUD) announced that the following games can no longer be downloaded from the Apple app store: • Duterte knows Kung Fu: Pinoy Crime Fighter • Duterte Running Man Challenge Game • Fighting Crime 2 • Tsip Bato: Ang Bumangga Giba The said games featured President Rodrigo Duterte and Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, police chief, shooting down criminals. ANPUD said that it has not directly received a direct response from Apple or its team, but re-
PAGE A1 “I think we’re going to get it passed,” Trump said on Tuesday. ‘It’s going to have lots of adjustments before it ends, but the end result will be very, very massive — the largest in the history of our country — tax cut.” Despite previous Republican opposition from Senators Susan Collins of Maine, Bob Corker of Tennessee and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, the three key senators expressed positivity about the bill after Republican leadership promised their concerns would be addressed. Corker, who has warned that any legislation that increases federal debt would be “the greatest threat to our nation,” voted to advance the bill to the Senate floor based on a “trigger” mechanism (of which details have not been released) that would raise taxes if the U.S. economy does not generate as much revenue as expected from the tax overhaul. “I think all of us want to get across the finish line, and we are trying to make this bill one that not only serves our immediate interests as a nation but also our long-term interests,” Corker said on “Fox & Friends” on Tuesday. “Everybody is working feverishly right now to try to get to that place.” How do the House and Senate bills differ? After the House bill approved its rewrite of the original Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Senate Republicans this week are looking to approve its ver-
sion for a vote slated this week. Per the GOP’s goal to favor the middle class, both plans lower the individual income tax rate for the middle class. Both, however, utilize a slower-paced inflation measure which would cause income tax brackets to grow more slowly as well; this would result in pushing more taxpayers into higher tax brackets. Both would also decrease the tax rate for corporations from 35 percent to 20 percent. The House bill would call for a condensed bracket system from the current seven-bracket system into four (previously three before the rewrite). It would also get rid of many itemized deductions (e.g. state and local taxes, medical expenses, etc.) to make room for higher standard deductions. In accordance to Senate rules, the Senate bill eliminates the individual tax provisions that help the middle class, including the child tax credit and lower tax rates at each income bracket, as a way to avoid driving up the deficit. In comparison, the House bill would increase the deficit by $1.08 trillion in the next decade; the Senate bill would only drive it up by half, according to conservative-leaning think tank Tax Foundation. How would the tax bill affect the middle class? For years, Republican lawmakers have held that strengthening the country’s middle class as a priority. When the GOP House bill was first introduced earlier this
BONIFACIO COINS. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on Wednesday, Nov. 29 revealed the new design for P5 coin which would be released in December. The P5 New Generation Currency Coin Series features Gat Andres Bonifacio on the obverse. It would be released in silver. Bonifacio’s portrait is etched on the obverse of the coin, and bear the markings: “Andres Bonifacio,” “5-Piso” and “Republika ng Pilipinas” in bold font and in microprints and the mint mark. On the other hand, the reverse side of the coin would feature Tayabak, a Philippine endemic plant that climbs tall forest trees. The BSP logo and “Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas” are also placed in microprint. Photo courtesy of BSP
‘Social media being used to ruin democracies including Philippines’ by Audrey
MorAllo Philstar.com
THERE is an increasing worldwide pattern of social media use to aid repressive regimes and undermine democracy, a digital diplomacy expert said Wednesday, Nov. 29. Damien Spry, a digital diplomacy researcher and consultant, said things had greatly changed since the “bliss” spawned by the Arab Spring which made people see YouTube, Facebook and Twitter as vehicles that could strengthen civil society and the public sphere. “Maybe they weren’t wrong then, but things are different now. Social media has achieved pariah status. Like Saturn, the internet revolution is devouring its children,” Spry wrote in a commentary on the Interpreter, an online publication of the Lowy Institute which is an independent, nonpartisan think tank based in Sydney, Australia. Spry said that Freedom House’s latest Freedom on the Net report detailed declines in internet freedom for the past seven years. Other reports have also catalogued the breadth, variety and impact of social media manipulation in different countries including the Philippines through the use of paid and unpaid online agents and automated accounts (bots) that would post, share,
like, quote and re-post content to influence politics. In its 2017 Freedom on the Net report, Freedom House discussed how an army of social media commentators were paid to manipulate the information landscape in the Philippines to support President Rodrigo Duterte. Freedom House said that there was an increase in reports of commentators being paid to manipulate social media information from June 2016 to May 2017. “News reports citing individuals involved said the commenters, which they characterized as part of a ‘keyboard army,’ could earn at least P500 ($10) a day operating fake social media accounts supporting President Rodrigo Duterte or attacking his detractors,” Freedom House said. The report also noted that overall internet freedom in the country slightly worsened during the covered period. There were also technical attacks targeting media groups such as the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines from June last year to May, according to Freedom House. One of the bases of the Freedom House Report was an Oxford University study which found that the Duterte campaign spent around P10 million to hire trolls
who would spread propaganda material online. The study said that Duterte’s team of 400 to 500 cyber troops posted nationalistic and pro-government comments and harassed online dissenters. According to Spry, these are just some of the main tactics used in manipulating information found on the internet. He said that manipulators would feign grassroots support (astroturfing), smear opponents and disrupt online campaigns through distractions. “The use of bots greatly amplifies impact: one human user can direct hundreds of bots to automatically generate thousands of posts and comments,” he wrote. The large amount of content and interactions, Spry said, would push it to the top of the pile and would make it more likely to appear on social media feeds of others. A common tactic in countering an anti-government hashtag campaign is by promoting alternative hashtags or by posting nonsense using the critical hashtag, he noted. Spry said that some of the countries affected by this were Sudan through its “Cyber Jihadists,” the Philippines with its “keyboard army,” Turkey through its 6,000 trolls and Mexico with its 75,000 automated accounts known as ‘Peñabots.’ n
A
november 30-december 6, 2017 • LAS veGAS ASIAn JoUrnAL
Dateline USa
Uber confirms personal data of Filipino users exposed in breach by Ian
nIcolas cIgaral Philstar.com
RIDE-hailing firm Uber (Uber Systems, Inc.) has confirmed that personal information of Filipinos users were included in the reported data breach involving over 50 million users and drivers worldwide, the National Privacy Commission said on Tuesday, Nov. 28. Uber made the confirmation in a letter to the NPC on Monday,
Nov. 27. However, Uber failed to provide the commission more information about the data breach, including the actual number of Filipinos affected and the “scope of their exposure.” “Under the principle of accountability, we require personal information controllers within our jurisdiction to provide detailed information on the nature of the incident, the scope of the exposure, and the remedial measures taken,”
the NPC said in a press statement. Despite its failure to disclose more detailed information about the compromised Filipino data, Uber, according to the NPC, nonetheless declared the following: • Two individuals outside Uber inappropriately accessed user data stored on a third-party cloud-based service that Uber uses. • The two Uber employees who led the response to the data breach are no longer with Uber. • The compromised data includes the names and driver’s license of around 600,000 drivers in the United States and some personal information of 57 million Uber users around the world. The information included names, email addresses and mobile phone numbers. • The incident did not breach Uber’s corporate systems; there is no indication that trip location history, credit card numbers, bank account numbers, or dates of birth were downloaded. • Filipino data subjects are affected, but there is no indication that any Filipino driver’s licenses were downloaded. • Uber has implemented security measures to restrict access to and strengthen controls on their cloudbased storage accounts. Serious consequences Uber Chief Executive Officer Dara Khosrowshahi last week confirmed to Bloomberg U.S. that a massive data breach happened last year and that it was concealed by its former chief security officer and one of his deputies. “While we have not seen evidence of fraud or misuse tied to the incident, we are monitoring the affected accounts and have flagged them for additional fraud protection,” Khosrowshahi was quoted as saying. The NPC reminded Uber that concealment of a data breach “bears serious consequences” under the Data Privacy Act of 2012. This was despite the company’s repeated assurance that there had been no evidence of fraud or misuse tied to the incident, the NPC noted. “If so qualified, those responsible for the concealment of the breach and for the exfiltration of the data may face serious civil and criminal liability,” the privacy commission said. “The investigation continues. We are also cooperating with the data privacy authorities of Australia and the United States on this matter,” it added. n
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http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678
Statement of former Speaker Jose de Venecia during the Fujian Normal University’s 110th anniversary FUZHOU — Former Philippine Speaker Jose de Venecia said last Nov. 18 that Philippine national hero Jose Rizal, considered “Pride of the Malayan Race,” which includes the peoples of Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia, had “Fujian, Chinese roots, and if alive today would be in the forefront of seeking inter-Asian reconciliation in the South China Sea.” Here in Fuzhou, Fujian’s capital city, for the 110th Anniversary of the Fujian Normal University, with hundreds of members of Filipino-Chinese and Asian alumni in attendance, 81-year-old de Venecia, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s Special Envoy for APEC and Intercultural Dialogue, told newsmen: “With the recent decision in ASEAN to begin the drafting of the China Sea Code of Conduct, key principles would include free navigation, open skies, common trade, tourism, hopefully joint exploration and joint development of petroleum resources, to be equitably shared, and taking into account contributions to oil drilling and development costs.” De Venecia, 5-time Speaker of the Philippine House of Representatives, and former President of the Petroleum Association of the Philippines, said under Presidents Xi Jinping and Rodrigo Duterte Philippine-Chinese relations “had improved considerably and major Chinese investments are beginning to flow in the Philippines and major Filipino-Chinese entrepreneurs have established branches
Jose de Venecia Jr., Special Envoy for Intercultural Dialogue
in various cities of China.” In 2005, joining then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s state visit to China, then Speaker de Venecia proposed in Beijing a “tripartite oil seismic agreement in the South China Sea among the Philippines, China, and Vietnam which was approved by the three governments,” led to the launching of a commonly financed 3-nation seismic ship survey which he said found a “number of drillable structures in the South China Sea.” In his speech yesterday at the Fujian Normal University anniversary rites, de Venecia said the great Chinese and Asian leader Deng Hsiao Peng said at the time that “we must consider suspending the issue of sovereignty” and proceed to drill for the region’s most urgent energy require-
ments and share the fruits of oil production. He said President Duterte and Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano have been successful so far in improving the situation in the South China Sea. Earlier in the 1970s in a speech before the Philippine Jaycees, de Venecia proposed multi-national drilling in the China Sea to include China and the U.S. He now adds that the U.S. has the most advanced oil drill ships in the world and today China has the largest oil drilling vessel in the sea. In his speech followed by the Indonesian Ambassador to China, de Venecia said President Xi Jinping’s noble 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, following the pre-Marco Polo journeys across Central Asia, Eurasia, and to the Mediterranean, has now led to the Maritime Silk Road which goes all the way to Africa. De Venecia proposed a “Third Route” across the China Sea to the Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand to Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and the U.S., in a New Age of Circumnavigation and Globalization. He added the time has also come for the Latin Americans to journey across the South Pacific to trade with and invest also in Asia. He said the recent APEC and ASEAN Summits in Vietnam and Manila had further improved Philippines-China and U.S. relations. n
Palace: PDEA still the lead agency in... PAGE A1 porters in Davao City. “So I guess, until the document is signed by him, it remains with PDEA. But I will actually seek clarification from the president,” the Palace official added. Roque also noted that it is Duterte’s prerogative to appoint which agency will spearhead the operations in cracking down narcotics.
In October, Duterte ordered the PNP anew to stay out of the drug war for amid public outcry over alleged police abuses and killings of suspects, including teenagers. The PNP was ordered to instead focus on addressing crimes and maintain visibility as “a deterrent to illegal drug activities,” as well as on cleansing its ranks. Replacing the PNP, Duterte
designated PDEA as the “sole agency” in charge of his anti-narcotics campaign. But in two separate speeches last week, Duterte said PDEA may have been struggling due to the lack of manpower. To prevent the problem from worsening again, Duterte said he is “inclined to call back the police and join again in the drug war.” n
Gadon on Sereno impeachment case: ‘Boxing... PAGE A1 complaint,” Gadon told reporters. During Wednesday’s hearing, De Castro said Sereno issued Administrative Order No. 175-2012 on Nov, 27, 2012 — creating the JDO (Judiciary Decentralized Office), reopening the post of RCAO (Regional Court Administrative Office)-7 Associate Justice, and appointing Geraldine Faith Econg as its head. According to De Castro, the chief justice issued the order “without getting the approval of the Supreme Court en banc.” “She even clarified deeper into the incidents involving the creation of the RCAO and the JDO,” Gadon said of De Castro’s testimony. “She has further clarified the incident which points out to the fact that Chief Justice Sereno has indeed committed a culpable violation
of the Constitution by arrogating upon herself the powers of the Supreme Court as a collegial body,” he added. With De Castro’s attestment alone, Gadon expressed confidence that Sereno will be impeached. “In fact sinasabi ko nga, tapos na ‘yung boksing eh (I’ve been saying that the boxing match is already over)… I’ve already proven my point, with just one ground,” he said. Gadon further expressed confidence that his other allegations against Sereno would also be proven in the next hearings. Sereno’s camp has refuted De Castro’s statements by saying that “the creation of said office, its budget as well as the designation of its staff, had already been approved and delineated in earlier resolutions of the Court.”
The chief justice’s lawyer, Jojo Lacanilao, also maintained that Sereno did not falsify the administrative orders. ‘Not ruled by emotions’ During the hearing, Siquijor Rep. Ramon Rocamora asked De Castro how she felt when Sereno, who is her junior in the Supreme Court, was appointed as the chief justice. In response, De Castro she was not affected by Sereno’s appointment, noting that a person “has no right” to remain in the tribunal if he is “affected by his emotions.” “Kaya ho itong pag-appoint kay Sere- Chief Justice Sereno, ano po ang magagawa ko (So, this appointment to chief justice of Sereno, what else could I do), the president appointed her. She was nominated by the [Judicial and Bar Council], what should I do?” De Castro added. (Dana Sioson/AJPress)
Over 200 companies urge FCC to maintain... PAGE A1 in 2016 — $3.5 billion alone were from Cyber Monday. “The internet is increasingly where commerce happens,” the letter says. Under current net neutrality rules enacted by the 2015 Open Internet Order under the Obama administration, internet service providers (ISPs) — Comcast, Verizon, AT&T, Cox, Charter, etc. — are prohibited from blocking, throttling, or charging consumers to pay for “fast lane” access to certain sites. The idea of net neutrality generally describes a free and open internet where everyone gets equal access to the same content, or in the case of the Cyber Monday letter, have equal opportunity to compete for consumers. “This economic growth is possible because of the free and open internet,” the companies said. “Our current net neutrality rules support innovation and gives all businesses the opportunity to compete equally for consumers,” they added. Without the rules, the companies and supporters of net neutrality argue that ISPs would be able to put businesses into “slow lanes”, require them to pay a toll to reach customers, or even block them. “This would put small and medium-sized businesses at a disadvantage and prevent innovative ones from even getting off the ground,” said the open letter. “An internet without net neutrality protections would be the opposite of the open market, with a few powerful cable and phone companies picking winners and losers instead of consumers.” Yet despite the many urges
to keep net neutrality regulations, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai — who was appointed by Trump in 2017 and once served as an attorney for Verizon — has remained steadfast in his stance to revoke the regulations. His final draft proposal was released on Wednesday, November 22. There are a number of arguments net neutrality supporters have against Pai’s proposal, but an argument most are focusing on has to do with the reclassification of broadband internet. Whereas current net neutrality regulations classify broadband internet as a “utility”, Pai’s 210page document proposes it be reclassified as a “telecommunications service”, essentially giving ISPs more control over how their customers get access to the internet, according to his opponents. This would also put ISPs under the watch of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) rather than the FCC. The FTC would thus be in charge of making sure the companies adhere to a set of “open internet” principles. Pai said that under his proposal, the FTC “will once again be able to police ISPs, protect consumers, and promote competition, just as it did before 2015.” But critics of Pai’s proposal argue that unlike the FCC, the FTC will not be able to protect consumers and users before they become victims. They also point out that the extent to which the FTC has on policing broadband providers remains ambiguous. Pai has also repeatedly argued that the current rules have been stifling ISP companies, thus preventing them from growing. In a statement, he said that the regulations “depressed investment in building and expanding
broadband networks and deterred innovation.” He reiterated his stance in a Wall Street Journal op-ed on Tuesday in which he said, ”In the two years after the FCC’s decision, broadband network investment dropped more than 5.6 percent — the first time a decline has happened outside of a recession.” Those for net neutrality say otherwise. Back in May, pro-net neutrality advocacy group Free Press released a report that cited ISPs saying that they had not been hurt by net neutrality. “We found that not a single publicly traded U.S. ISP ever told its investors (or the SEC) that Title II negatively impacted its own investments specifically,” the report said. ISPs cited in the report include AT&T whose CEO told investors that the company would actually “deploy more fiber” in 2016, and Charter whose CEO told investors, “Title II, it didn’t really hurt us; it hasn’t hurt us.” With less than three weeks to go until voting time, advocates for net neutrality maintain that the regulations are necessary for a democratic, open, and competitive market. Just recently, Comcast — aware of public fears — told CNET that the company currently has no plans to offer fast lanes on the internet if the rollback were to happen. “Comcast hasn’t entered any paid prioritization agreements. Period,” said the company’s spokeswoman Sena Fitzmaurice in an email. “And we have not plans to do so.” The FCC will note on the new rules on Thursday, December 14. (Rae Ann Varona / AJPress)
LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEmbER 30-dEcEmbER 6, 2017
(702) 792-6678 • http://www.asianjournal.com
Dateline PhiliPPines
A
Aquino denies LP hand in destabilization plot by Dana
SioSon AJPress
PAILAW SA UP 2017. Lanterns of various shapes and sizes surrounding the Oblation statue, the iconic symbol of the University of the Philippines, brighten up the premises of its campus in Diliman, Quezon City. PNA photo by Noel D. Veloso
De Lima receives rosary from Pope Francis by Dana
SioSon AJPress
A “deeply, deeply touched� Senator leila de lima on Sunday, November 26, said she received a rosary from pope Francis. In a statement, the detained senator said the philippine National police (pNp) chaplain personally handed her the gift enclosed with a letter from the pope last Wednesday, November 22. “This gift will constantly remind me that, despite the political persecution I am experiencing right now at the hands of a vengeful president, I should keep the faith and fight tirelessly for the welfare of the Filipino people,� she said. She also described the rosary as “beautiful.� de lima, a top critic of president Rodrigo duterte, has been detained at the pNp Custodial Center in Camp Crame since February 2017 for her alleged involvement in the drug trade at the New Bilibid prison when she was Justice Secretary from 2010 to 2015. The senator said she sent the pope a letter before her 58th birthday August to ask him to pray for her and the Filipino people. Calling herself duterte’s “political prisoner,� the senator also asked the pope’s blessing to give the the “strength to continue the fight against the injustice that is happening not only to me, but to thousands of Filipinos who are victims of extrajudicial killing.�
Sen. Leila De Lima
Senate photo
“According to the Chaplain, pope Francis was able to read my letter and assured that he is praying for me,â€? de lima said. Commenting on pope Francis’ giving of a rosary to de lima, duterte on Tuesday, November 28 joked about showing the pontiff the senator’s alleged sex video. Without mentioning de lima, duterte said said in jest that he would show the pope a “videoâ€? that would prod him to step down from the papacy should he watch it. “Tapos ‘yung isa, ‘yung hambog binigyan pa ng rosary ni pope (Then one of them, the arrogant one, was even given a rosary by the Pope),â€? the president said during an anti-corruption summit in pasay City. “Si pope naman o‌ Hanapan
mo nga ako ng video ng ano, pakita ko kay pope. Baka magtingin pa si pope, baka umalis pa sa pagka-pope yan (Find me that video. Once the Pope sees it, he may leave the papacy),� he added. duterte did not elaborate on the video he was referring to, but de lima was rumored to have had a sex video with her former driver Ronnie dayan—which the senator denied. The president later clarified that he was just joking. He, however, warned that he could also use his right to freedom of expression to criticize the pope back. “That’s a joke. Aabot ng ano ‘yan (It might reach them). I am joking, pope. If you criticize me, I can criticize you ten times over,� duterte said. n
Karagdagang kaalaman sa Filipino (Tagalog) ay makikita rin sa website ng Lalawigan ng Clark Kagawaran ng Halalan sa: www.clarkcountynv.gov/vote.
STATE OF NEVADA
) ) ss: COUNTY OF CLARK ) I, JOSEPH P. GLORIA, the duly appointed Registrar of Voters of Clark County, Nevada, do hereby certify that the following State, 'LVWULFW &RXQW\ 7RZQ $GYLVRU\ %RDUG DQG 7RZQVKLS RIÂż FHV DUH WKH RIÂż FHV IRU ZKLFK FDQGLGDWHV DUH WR EH QRPLQDWHG DW WKH 3ULPDU\ Election to be held on the 12th day of June, 2018, in Clark County, Nevada. &DQGLGDWHV Âż OLQJ IRU GLVWULFW RIÂż FHV HQWLUHO\ FRQWDLQHG ZLWKLQ &ODUN &RXQW\ ZLOO Âż OH DW WKH &ODUN &RXQW\ *RYHUQPHQW &HQWHU 6RXWK *UDQG &HQWUDO 3DUNZD\ /DV 9HJDV 19 &DQGLGDWHV IRU &LW\ RI 0HVTXLWH PXQLFLSDO RIÂż FHV ZLOO Âż OH DW WKH 0HVTXLWH &LW\ +DOO &OHUNÂśV RIÂż FH (DVW 0HVTXLWH %RXOHYDUG 0HVTXLWH 19 2IÂż FHV LGHQWLÂż HG ZLWK DVWHULVNV UHSUHVHQW GLVWULFWV WKDW DUH VKDUHG ZLWK RWKHU FRXQWLHV &DQGLGDWHV IRU WKRVH RIÂż FHV ZLOO Âż OH ZLWK WKH 6HFUHWDU\ RI 6WDWH DW WKH /DV 9HJDV RU &DUVRQ &LW\ RIÂż FHV -XGLFLDO FDQGLGDWH Âż OLQJ ZLOO EH FRQGXFWHG -DQXDU\ QG WKURXJK -DQXDU\ WK 1RQ -XGLFLDO FDQGLGDWH Âż OLQJ ZLOO EH FRQGXFWHG 0DUFK WK WKURXJK 0DUFK WK FEDERAL PARTISAN OFFICES
COUNTY NON PARTISAN OFFICES
UNITED STATES SENATE
6-year term
REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS 'LVWULFWV DQG
2-year term
STATE PARTISAN OFFICES GOVERNOR LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR SECRETARY OF STATE STATE TREASURER STATE CONTROLLER ATTORNEY GENERAL STATE SENATE Districts 2, 8, 9, 10, 12, 20, and 21 STATE ASSEMBLY 'LVWULFWV WKURXJK DQG
4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 2-year term
COUNTY PARTISAN OFFICES COUNTY COMMISSIONER Districts E, F, and G CLARK COUNTY DISTRICT ATORNEY CLARK COUNTY ASSESSOR CLARK COUNTY CLERK CLARK COUNTY RECORDER CLARK COUNTY TREASURER CLARK COUNTY PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR CONSTABLE, BOULDER TOWNSHIP CONSTABLE, BUNKERVILLE TOWNSHIP CONSTABLE, GOODSPRINGS TOWNSHIP CONSTABLE, HENDERSON TOWNSHIP CONSTABLE, LAUGHLIN TOWNSHIP CONSTABLE, MESQUITE TOWNSHIP CONSTABLE, MOAPA TOWNSHIP CONSTABLE, MOAPA VALLEY TOWNSHIP CONSTABLE, NORTH LAS VEGAS TOWNSHIP CONSTABLE SEARCHLIGHT TOWNSHIP
4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term 4-year term
STATE AND DISTRICT NON PARTISAN OFFICES JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT Seats C, F, and G ',675,&7 &2857 -8'*( Departments 10, 18, and 29 REGENT, STATE UNIVERSITY Districts 1, 4, and 12
6-year term \HDU XQH[SLUHG WHUP 6-year term
TRUSTEE, CLARK COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT Districts D, F, and G
4-year term
MEMBER, MOAPA VALLEY WATER DISTRICT Logandale and Overton
4-year term
MEMBER, VIRGIN VALLEY WATER DISTRICT Mesquite, Vote for No More Than 2; and Bunkerville
4-year term
TRUSTEE, MOAPA VALLEY TV MAINTENANCE DISTRICT 9RWH IRU 1R 0RUH 7KDQ 2 Seats, 4-year term and 6HDWV \HDU XQH[SLUHG WHUP TRUSTEE, OVERTON POWER DISTRICT District 1, Overton; District 2, Logandale; District 4, Bunkerville, and District 6, Mesquite
4-year term
TOWN ADVISORY BOARD, BUNKERVILLE 6HDWV 9RWH IRU 1R 0RUH 7KDQ
2-year term
TOWN ADVISORY BOARD, LAUGHLIN 6HDWV 9RWH IRU 1R 0RUH 7KDQ
2-year term
TOWN ADVISORY BOARD, MOAPA 6HDWV 9RWH IRU 1R 0RUH 7KDQ
2-year term
TOWN ADVISORY BOARD, MOAPA VALLEY 6HDWV 9RWH IRU 1R 0RUH 7KDQ
2-year term
TOWN ADVISORY BOARD, SEARCHLIGHT 6HDWV 9RWH IRU 1R 0RUH 7KDQ
2-year term
CLARK COUNTY SHERIFF
4-year term
0(648,7( &,7< 2)),&(6 ALL NON PARTISAN) COUNCIL MEMBER, CITY OF MESQUITE Seats 1, 3, and 4
4-year term
TOWNSHIP NON PARTISAN OFFICES JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, Boulder Township 6 year term JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, Bunkerville Township 6 year term JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, Goodsprings Township 6 year term JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, Henderson Township 6 year term Department 1 JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, Las Vegas Township 6 year term 'HSDUWPHQWV DQG JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, Laughlin Township 6 year term JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, Mesquite Township 6 year term JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, Moapa Township 6 year term JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, Moapa Valley Township 6 year term JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, North Las Vegas Township 6 year term Departments 1 and 2 JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, Searchlight Township 6 year term
,1 :,71(66 :+(5(2) , KDYH KHUHXQWR VHW P\ KDQG DQG DIÂż [HG WKH &RXQW\ 6HDO DW P\ RIÂż FH LQ 1RUWK /DV 9HJDV &ODUN &RXQW\ 1HYDGD WKLV 7+ GD\ RI 1RYHPEHU
JOSEPH P. GLORIA Registrar of Voters
(Seal)
also insisted that Chief Justice maria lourdes Sereno is mentally stable when he assessed FoRmeR philippine presi- her qualifications for the post. “I didn’t see anything that dent Benigno “Noynoyâ€? Aquino on monday, November 27, dis- would have made me think twice missed allegations that the lib- [in appointing her] during my eral party (lp) is working on a interactions with her,â€? Aquino plot to destabilize the current administration. Aquino, who is also the party’s chairman emeritus, clarified that the lp is not behind any plans to oust president Rodrigo duterte after the latter mentioned that the “yellowsâ€? are among those who wanted to unseat him. “Wala kami pina-plano na ganyan (We’re not planning anything like that),â€? Aquino told reporters after the mass held at the manila memorial park in paraĂąaque City for the 85th birth anniversary of his father—Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Aquino remarked that if duterte is doing a good job, any destabilization plot against him will not succeed. “pero kung hindi tama ang mga nangyayari, hindi natutupad ang mga pinangako, hindi maintindihan ang sinasabi—yan ang nagki-create ng dissatsifaction (But if what has been happening were improper, promises were not kept, and words were unclear—these create dissatisfaction),â€? the former president added. Instead of pointing at the lp, Aquino suggested duterte to also “look at people around him.â€? lately, duterte has been issuing warnings that he might declare a revolutionary government if things have gone “out of controlâ€? and if the government is at risk of being overthrown violently amid the alleged destabilization efforts by his political enemies. Aquino, however, noted that a revolutionary government could only be established after a complete system failure that makes the government no longer able to carry out its functions. The former president also said he found no reason for duterte to declare a revolutionary government. ‘No psychological issues’ during his interview with reporters, the former president
said. He then asked, “We see her speaking in forums. Have we seen anything that should have made us nervous about how she comported herself?� Sereno reportedly failed her PAGE A7
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OpiniOn
Toothless law
Features
Before President rodrigo Duterte classifies communist rebels as terrorists and wages war against them, he should make sure his security forces are prepared to apply the law against terrorism — republic Act 9372 or the Human Security Act. RA 9372 was enacted way back in 2007, but lawmakers inserted into the measure several provisions ostensibly meant as safeguards against human rights abuses, which left little room even for honest mistakes on the part of counterterrorism forces and virtually defanged the law. The measure makes intelligence gathering transparent, allowing the person under police surveillance that must be court-approved to challenge the court order, and requiring the identification of the police officers involved, including their full names and addresses. The New People’s Army and Abu Sayyaf would be delighted to obtain such information. Failure to submit to the Court of Appeals a detailed report on the types and number of wiretapped recordings made can earn law enforcers from 10 to 12 years behind bars. The law also requires the identification of police informants. And while the provision against the use of torture is in keeping with constitutional
guarantees on human rights, counterterrorism forces may not want to be imprisoned for 12 to 20 years for using “threat, intimidation” or “mental, moral or psychological pressure” on a terror suspect. If RA 9372 had been applied in liberating Marawi from the clutches of Islamic State-inspired Maute terrorists, many members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines could end up behind bars for up to 20 years. The government did not even follow the procedure under RA 9372 for classifying the Mautes as terrorists. The government may have to go through that process if it intends to classify the Communist Party of the Philippines, the National Democratic Front, their armed wing the NPA and their front organizations as terrorist groups. President Duterte may want to take a different route in dealing with these groups. Or he may ask his congressional allies to review the law that government forces avoid enforcing. (Philstar.com)
Editorial
The Fil-Am Perspective Gel santos-relos PReSIDeNT Donald Trump has been touting that he will be giving Americans a great Christmas gift when he signs the Republican tax bill into law before the holidays. What is he talking about? Who among the American people will pop the champagne for Trump’s tax plan? Unfortunately, it will not be you and me and most hardworking Americans. It will be Trump and people like him. Don’t take my word for it. Take it from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) report that analyzed and projected the impact of the tax bill on the American people and the financial health of the nation. This is the reason why the Trump Administration continues to scramble to get enough votes even among Republicans. The way it works is pretty much how we do our family budget. We need to work so we have the income to spend. As much as possible, we live within our means to pay our bills. If we run short of money to spend, we use our credit
Peace Maker
Trump’s tax bill: Good for the richest, bad for the middle class and the US card or get a loan from the bank. We try to be frugal and only pay for essential basic needs, unless we need to invest on needs that will bring great return on investments in terms of better income, way of life and standard of living for our family members in the future. To save money, we either increase income/revenues and/ or cut on expenses. In looking at the tax bill issue, the GOP plan boasts of the biggest tax cuts in the history of America. As taxes are the sources of the nation’s income/revenue, then that means we have less money to spend for our needs. Spending more without the revenue to pay for it because of tax cuts means we add to our debt and budget deficit. Who benefits most from the tax break and who hurts most because of cuts in budget reflect what is important in this administration. Based on the CBO study, the ultra-rich — the top 1 percent — will benefit most from this tax reform bill. Who will suffer? According to the report of The Guardian based on the CBO and Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT), “starting in 2021, a year after the next election, Americans earning $10,000
to $30,000 a year or less would pay higher taxes if the bill passes thanks to plans to repeal a core element of Obama’s Affordable Care Act. The JCT also calculates that most Americans earning $75,000 or less would be paying higher taxes by 2027.” The middle class, especially those living in high-tax states, who deduct their local property, income and sales taxes from their tax due could lose out from the complete or partial repeal of the deductions. Moreover, about 13 million Americans could lose health insurance coverage over 10 years under the Senate bill. Add to these will be the social services that benefit the poor, the vulnerable and the middle class which are always the ones slashed to spend money. The Guardian further reported that based on the studies, “paying for the tax cuts is likely to mean cuts to social security and Medicare, the federal program that provides health insurance to those 65 and older.” “The House bill is also proposing to eliminate tax deductions for medical expenses that exceed 10 percent of a taxpayer’s total income. More than half of the 8.6 million people who claim
the deduction are older than 65, 49 percent had income less than $50,000, and 69 percent earned less than $75,000, according to AARP, the lobby group for older Americans, which has 38 million members.” And how will this affect the economy of the United States? Contrary to Trump’s claim that this tax bill will reduce the debt and deficit of the country, the CBO estimated that this Tax Cuts and Jobs Act would cost $1.4 trillion. With the Senate version, the trillion-dollar deficit would return by 2020, debt would exceed the size of the U.S. economy in just over a decade.” Who will celebrate if this tax bill is passed? One of the sources of our nation’s income is the estate tax. This tax bill eliminates that from the revenue column to help “people who leave a fortune of $5.49m or above to their heirs. Parents can leave $11m to their children without paying the tax. The House bill doubles that exemption until 2024 and then eliminates it entirely at a cost of $151bn to the taxpayer over the next decade.” According to The Guardian, “The cut would save the Trump family $1.15bn when he dies, ac-
cording to the Center for American Progress Action Fund.” The Guardian further reported that with thus GOP tax bill: “Gone also would be the alternative minimum tax (AMT), introduced in 1969 to prevent the rich from escaping paying their fair share of tax via tax loopholes. AMT mainly affects those earning over $500,000, according to Tax Policy Center. In 2005 the rule was responsible for $31m of the $38m Trump paid in federal taxes, according to leaked documents. Lowering taxes on passthrough businesses will also help the rich. Pass through businesses are businesses taxed at the rate of the business owner. The current proposals would cut the top rate these companies pay to 25 percent, far below the 39.6 percent highest rate of personal income tax. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities some 80 percent of the benefit of these cuts would go to those earning $1-M or more – giving them an average increase of $50,000 in 2018. A similar plan in Kansas led to a budget crisis after the state’s tax revenues plummeted and promises of increased economic
activity failed to materialize. Trump controls some 500 pass-through entities and he would save about $16m a year from the cuts, according to the New York Times. Trump’s plan would cut the corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 20 percent, the lowest point since 1939. The idea is that lower taxes will allow business leaders to increase capital investment and create more jobs. But the fact is that most US corporations pay far less than 35 percent tax already, many of the most profitable pay nothing and lower taxes have not been shown to create jobs. There is also little evidence that the current system is harming business given that both stock markets and corporate profits are at record highs while employment is at lows unseen since the turn of the millennium.” TeLL Me: How would this bill help YOU? *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www. facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos
More than ever, the need for a global anti-drugs summit
Jose C. de VeneCia, Jr. MORe than ever, perhaps the time has now come for President Rodrigo Duterte to initiate and expedite the convening of a “Global Anti-Drugs Summit” in Manila to help address the narcotics crisis in the country which is also a raging global problem. This way, we could let the Filipino people fully understand that the drug crisis at home is not just a domestic problem but indeed a deadly worldwide scourge. Parents and their families, universities, civil societies, and media all over the world would heartily welcome and support such a global gathering and agree with governments and concerned public agencies in mobilizing to defeat the deadly narcotics syndicates operating in most cities of the world. Their members and agents, at home and overseas, must be pursued and punished severely but the less guilty in their midst must also be accorded the benefit of rehabilitation. We were invited to a dinner last week organized by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Chairperson Andrea Domingo, Philippine Drug enforcement Agency (PDeA) Chairman Gen. Dionisio
Philstar.com photo
Jose de Venecia Jr., Special Envoy for Intercultural Dialogue
Santiago, Malacañan Undersecretary Dale Cabrera, Columnist and PAGCOR Director Chit Pedrosa and other officials of related agencies to consider our proposal for a Global Summit, and who unanimously agreed that the time for such a meeting is now urgent, and that they would urge the President to give the go-signal for an InterAgency Team to plan and set the date for the Summit in Manila to address the Philippine problem and work as well with anti-drug leaders and organizations in the global community. The drug crisis in Metro Manila and various parts of the country has triggered an outcry in civil society and the religious community, with widespread coverage in multi-media and accusations of occasional police abuse aired at home and abroad, inspite of Presi-
dent Duterte’s genuine anti-drugs crusade. But his determined and bona fide efforts backed by national police are at times unfortunately undermined by occasional reports of extra-judicial killings by a few but apparently unpunished policemen or by unidentified killers. On another note, at our next meeting with the Inter-Agency Group led by Andrea Domingo, we hope to inform her that we plan to invite the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), based in Seoul, with its more than 300 ruling, opposition and independent member political parties, and the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP), based in New York, representing international parliamentarians to perhaps extend their support to the Philippine initiative once it is launched. The IAPP is composed of many current and former members of parliament, from some 100 national legislative bodies in Asia, europe, Africa, the Americas and Australia. We are fortunate to be Chairman of ICAPP and Co-Chairman of IAPP, based in Washington, D.C., the latter, with former U.S. congressional leader Dan Burton as Co-Chairman. The Universal Peace Federation (UPF), based in New York City, under the leadership of its founder Madame Hak Ja Han Moon and its American President
Thomas Walsh, with UPF’s more than 100 branches worldwide, and its U.S. affiliate, Washington Times, might also be interested to join and support a genuine worldwide anti-narcotics crusade, once organized and launched. UPF has more than 30,000 members in the Philippines under its President Julius Malicdem. In our earlier column, we recalled that we met in Mexico City a few years ago with Mexico’s then newly elected President enrique Peña Nieto in our capacity then as election Observers in the presidential elections there, together with our ICAPP Secretary General Korean Chung eui-yong, with our Latin-American friend, Gustavo Carvajal Moreno, former Mexican Speaker of Parliament, who unfortunately recently passed away. The Mexican Presidentelect expressed interest then in a global summit either in Manila or Mexico City, because of the continuing flow even today of illegal drugs to the U.S. market, through his country. Indeed, at that time many realized that efforts to make trafficking more difficult in one locality—one region—or even one continent— simply shift trafficking to another venue. We were informed that the escalation of counter-narcotic campaigns in Mexico and Central America had been driving LatinAmerican traffickers to use West Africa to smuggle cocaine into
europe. In recent years, it was reported that the U.S. was already training elite counter-narcotics police in Ghana, while planning similar units in Kenya and Nigeria. We pointed out that carrying out police measures was not enough. We noted that in the emerging nations, weak states themselves had to be strengthened, and social institutions built up, to prevent trafficking groups from establishing themselves—and turning transit countries into consumer countries. We said: “Stand-alone national programs can no longer suffice. The global war on narcotic drugs as in the Philippines—cocaine, heroin and chemical amphetamines—now requires group intelligence and concerted action that only a supranational body focused on resolving the problem can supply.” We declared then as we declare today: “The war against narcotics, with its powerful private armies, is not a singular problem of Manila. Indeed, it is an inter-continental problem; it is a global problem.” Thus, our plea for a Global Summit in Manila. Indeed in Asia, we have serious problems with the large growing of poppies and opium by warlords in Afghanistan (perhaps the biggest grower); in the Golden Triangle along the banks of the Mekong River, in Laos, Thailand,
and Myanmar, and in the various transhipment points of various countries. And some of the populous migrant workers of Asia including a few Filipinos are being corrupted to serve as “drug mules”, sometimes condemned to the death penalty or serving long sentences in prison when caught, as witnessed our unfortunate countrywoman presently languishing in Indonesian prison. As in the Caribbean in the 1980’s, poor, small, vulnerable countries, officials and impoverished citizens have succumbed to and been victimized by dirty money. At our dinner meeting, we noted that already for a start, while still in the planning stage, Chairperson Domingo and Gen. Santiago and their staff already identified at least sixty (60) global leaders, active in international efforts against narcotics, who might be invited to journey to Manila for the conference, once called. It is our hope indeed that governments and civil society organizations all over the world would attend the Manila conference once approved and announced, and extend support to the Philippine Government. There will be some critics of the conference because of some of the extra-judicial killings here but we believe overall the conference will be a big-plus for President Duterte and for the Filipino people. n
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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PNP chief vows ‘full speed with caution’ in new drug war by RJ
CaRbonell ManilaTimes.net
PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief Ronald “Bato” de la Rosa vowed that the police would be in “full speed with caution” in conducting anti-drug operations, if they were brought back to the drug war. “We would be in full speed. I don’t care who would be run over, but we would be in full speed with caution,” de la Rosa said in a speech at the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame. President Rodrigo Duterte said on Wednesday he was considering returning the PNP in the driver’s seat of the government’s war against illegal drugs if drug activity and drug-related crimes worsened. “As of now, just to parry [criticisms], nilagay ko sa (I gave it to) PDEA (Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency). Whether I like it or not, I have to return that power to the police because surely it will increase the [drug-related] activity,” Duterte said in a speech before government troops. PARU-PARO’ FESTIVAL. Elementary students, in colorful butterfly costumes, join a street dancing competion during the 6th “Paru-Paro” festival 2017, held at the City Hall of Dasmarinas City in Cavite on Sunday, November 26. PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan
AFP to use Ecija rehab for barracks, training by edIth
Regalado Philstar.com
DAVAO CITY — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will convert the 10,000-bed mega drug treatment and rehabilitation center in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija into a barracks and training facility if President Duterte formally turns it over to the military. Duterte earlier said he is giving the center to the military because only a few hundred drug dependents have actually enrolled to use it to kick the habit. “If that is what the President wants, the AFP could make good use of the facility for barracks, training and other activities of the military in the area,” AFP
unemployed while others were tricycle drivers and construction workers. At least one was identified as a barangay captain. Health Undersecretary Roger Tong-an said 60 drug dependents, which comprised the third batch of patients who underwent treatment at the mega center, are set to graduate on Nov. 29, in time for the facility’s first founding anniversary. Tong-an said the dependents stayed there from four to six months to undergo rehabilitation. Former Dangerous Drugs Board chair Dionisio Santiago earlier said building the mega rehab was a mistake, pointing out that a smaller community-based rehabilitation center would have done the job.
Aquino denies LP hand in destabilization... PAGE A5 psychological exam taken during her application for chief justice in 2012 after supposedly getting a score of 4—the high-
Speaking to reporters in Davao City, Palace spokesman Harry Roque said Duterte remained “inclined” to return the government’s drug war to PNP, but had yet to make a decision. “It is safe to reveal that the President, while inclined to return it to the PNP, has not made up completely his mind,” Roque said during a news conference. “But I will actually seek clarification from the President. Let’s not pressure him, that’s a presidential prerogative,” he said. The PNP stopped anti-drug operations in January after the October 2016 killing of Korean businessman Jee Ick Joo by police officers, right inside the PNP’s Camp Crame headquarters, became public. Operations “Tokhang” and “Double Barrel” however resumed in March under a new PNP anti-illegal drugs unit. In October, the President ordered the PDEA to be the lead agency in the campaign against illegal drugs following strong criticisms on the increasing number of deaths involving drug suspects.
Gascon: Destabilization not CHR’s cup of tea by Ian
nIColas CIgaRal Philstar.com
MANILA — The Commission on Human Rights is not in the business of destabilizing the government, Rights chief Chito Gascon said Wednesday amid attacks on the constitutional body for criticizing the mounting killings in the Duterte administration’s deadly drug war. “Hindi po tayo nasa larangan ng pamumulitika. ‘Di po tayo nasa larangan ng destabilization. Tayo po ay nasa larangan ng rule of law. Tayo po ay nasa larangan ng justice,” Gascon said in a speech at a forum organized by the Constitutional Fiscal Autonomy Group. (We’re not into politics. We’re not into destabilization. We’re into rule of law. We’re into justice.) “Ang panawagan natin sa lahat ay gawin lamang ang sangayon sa batas gawin lamang ang sangayon sa ating konstitusyon,” he added. (Our plea to all is just do what’s allowed by the law and our conest of which is 1 and the lowest psychologists who performed stitution.) To note, security officials had is 5. psychological examinations on According to Lawyer Lorenzo her were supposedly terminated repeatedly said they had not moniGadon, the complainant in Sere- after she was appointed as the tored any destabilization plots against the current government. no’s impeachment case, the two chief magistrate.
spokesman Maj. Gen. Restituto Padilla told The Star. The Fort Magsaysay Military Reservation, where the mega center is located, is considered to be the largest military reservation in the Philippines and a key training facility of the Philippine Army. It is also designated as the AFP National Training Center for upgrading and training battalion sized units, producing more than 72 Army and 12 Marine battalions in just six years. The Department of Health was supposed to run the facility. Its data showed that only 663 drug dependents have so far been admitted at the center, a majority of them from the National Capital Region, Region 3 and Region 4B. It also showed that most were
De la Rosa said: “Let’s avoid the humps, bumps and barricades, so that the car won’t have scratches.” From drugs to kidnapping The PNP chief said the number of rogue policemen had gone down because of the crackdown on illegal drugs. De la Rosa cited PNP CounterIntelligence Task Force (CITF) data that showed that the number of policemen reported for criminal activities had decreased from “hundreds” to “10” a day. Internal cleansing of the police force is “working,” he said. De la Rosa said rogue policemen have shifted to kidnap-for-ransom schemes now that the drug business was “declining.” “Now that they are out of the drug business, kidnapping is now their racket,” de la Rosa said. PDEA still leading drug war On Monday, Nov. 27, Malacañang said the government’s war on drugs remained with the PDEA without an order signed by President Duterte allowing the PNP to resume a primary role in the campaign.
President Rodrigo Duterte is facing strong criticisms from human rights watchdogs for his war on drugs that has killed thousands of suspected drug traffickers in police operations. But Duterte has rejected allegations that cops are summarily executing suspected users and dealers while most Filipinos back the brutal crackdown. Duterte earlier described Gascon as a “pedophile” because of the CHR chief’s focus on the killing of teenagers in the government’s bloody war on drugs that sparked rare street protests. The firebrand leader had also accused Gascon of being a spokesman for the opposition and criticized his scrutiny of police anti-drug drive. “Ang mga naitakdang karapatang pantao ay ‘syang gagamitin natin para siguraduhin na matigil na ang extrajudicial killings, ang torture and forced disappearances at arbitrary detentions sapagkat lahat ng ito ay pinagbabawal ng ating saligang batas,” Gascon said. (We will use human rights guaranteed by the constitution to stop extrajudicial killings, torture and forced disappearances as well as arbitrary detentions
because these are prohibited under the law.) “We extend our hand of solidarity to our CFAG colleagues as well as to the other servants in government in the executive and the legislative department. Please look at us as institutions that are supposed to guarantee that our democracy will strive,” he added. Last September, the House of Representatives, which is dominated by Duterte’s allies, favored the move to slash the budget of the CHR to a thousand pesos from the Department of Budget’s proposed P678 million. The rights commission’s budget was later restored after lawmakers were criticized for their attempt to cut the body’s funding. The CHR, as a constitutional body, enjoys fiscal autonomy and cannot be defunded or be given a budget of only a peso, a way for some lawmakers to punish some government agencies. In August, Duterte said security forces should shoot CHR personnel if they are found to be obstructing justice. This was after his threat to abolish the body, a remark later dismissed as a “joke.”
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PH takes pride in Rachel Peters’ Top 10 finish by Arlo
Custodio ManilaTimes.net
Hopes were high for the philippines’ Rachel peters who advanced to the Top 10 of the 2017 Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas, Nevada on sunday, Nov. 26 Just as quickly, however, the biggest night of her life came
Miss Universe 2017 Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters
to an end when she failed to make it to the Top 5, stunning as she was in her ash blue long gown by designer Val Taguba. Crowned Miss Universe was Demi-Leigh Nel-peters from south Africa, who bested First Runner-Up Miss Colombia Laura Gonzalez, and second Runner-Up Miss Jamaica Davina Bennett. Nel-peters succeeded 2016’s winner Iris Metenaere of France, who was crowned in Manila in January. even before the pageant ended, Binibining pilipinas Charities Incorporated (BpCI) chairman stella Marquez Araneta issued the organization’s congratulatory statement on Facebook, lauding peters “for her phenomenal representation of the country in this year’s Miss Universe pageant.” “The Universe is livelier with you as a shining star. More than your poise and beauty, you are a cut above the rest with your grace and elegance that exemplifies a true woman of substance and an inspiring Filipina. We are proud
to be a part of your journey,” Araneta said. Filipino fans and supporters, touted as the most avid followers of the pageant, shared the same sentiments. New mechanics This year saw a new system in choosing the first set of finalists or the Top 16. Landing a spot were four candidates from three geographical groups, while the remaining four (regardless of geographical representation) were chosen as “wild cards.” From Africa and Asia-pacific, the finalists were Thailand, sri Lanka, Ghana and south Africa; from europe, spain, Ireland, Croatia and Great Britain, and finally from the Americas were Colombia, UsA, Brazil and Canada. peters was chosen as one of the wild cards along with Venezuela, Jamaica and China. The Top 16 then advanced to the swimsuit Competition, and the candidates were whittled down to the Top 10 with Venezuela, UsA, Canada, south Africa,
spain, Brazil, Colombia, Thailand, Jamaica, and the philippines. peters was unable to take part in any question-and-answer portion, as they were only given out to the Top 5, and again the Top 3. No clear advocacy As Filipinos began moving on from peter’s loss at the Miss Universe pageant, some observers were quick to note that as beautiful, graceful and confident the half-British-half Filipino candidate was, she seem to have paled in comparison with the winners in terms of advocacy. Nel-peters, who had been held at gunpoint and robbed, took her advocacy for self-defense among women to the pageant, while others talked about championing the deaf, mental health and HIV Awareness among other weighty issues. The 2017 Miss Universe pageant was held at The Axis, planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, the same venue where host steve Harvey fumbled in announcing pia Wurtzbach as the winner in 2015.
Filipino filmmakers Allan Ibanez, Dexter Hemedez deliver laughs and tears in ‘1st Sem’
Coming-of-age story explores complex family dynamics between a single mother and her eldest son by KlArizer
MedenillA AJPress
THe coming-of-age story has become a staple in independent cinema, beautifully and artistically told from filmmakers spanning the globe. Typically geared towards young adults, these stories explore the growth of a protagonist, pulling from often-comedic experiences that have strengthened our hero. The first feature film by philippine writer-directors Allan Ibanez and Dexter Hemedez “1st sem” tells the story of the eldest son of a widow who sets off to study at a prestigious university in Manila only to return home the next day. The son, 16-year-old Maru (played
by newcomer Darwin Yu), tells his mother, precy (Lotlot De Leon), that he felt lonely and missed his family. Angry that her son disobeyed her wishes to receive a college education, precy orders Maru to help around the house. Their relationship begins to deteriorate as they face challenges that further divide the family. The story explores the dynamic between the hard-working but crass mother and a wellmeaning, trepidatious son. “1st sem” is a modern comingof-age story, but rather than building experiences out in the world, he learns them in his own household. In the movie, Lotlot De Leon plays a struggling single parent to three siblings in the throes of PAGE B2 adulthood played by newcomers Darwin Yu, Miguel Bagtas and child actor Sebastian Vargas.
Miss Universe Philippines 2017 Rachel Peters Photos courtesy of the Miss Universe Organization
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Miss Universe 2016 thanks Filipino Filipino filmmakers Allan Ibanez, Dexter... designer for ‘amazing dress’ by C.
Mendez Legaspi Philstar.com
The glitz, the glamour and the gossip-mongering that was the coronation night of the 66th Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas, Nevada, is still the talk of the cybersphere and beyond. At the end of the evening, the 92 delegates were in their finest long gowns, anxiously waiting for the announcement of the winner. The last girls standing in Las Vegas were Davina Bennett of Jamaica (a deadringer for ‘70s badass actress Pam Grier), Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters of South Africa (who recalls 1979 winner Maritza Sayalero of Venezuela) and Laura González of Colombia (a bubblier Claudia Cardinale). After a stellar reign, Iris Mittenaere of France, who was crowned by Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach in Manila in January, was ready to crown her own successor. When the beautiful dentistry student sauntered onstage in a resplendent red gown, every fashion observer watching swooned and had one thought in mind: It can only be a Michael Cinco! It was the volume. It was the drama. It was the magnificence. The tulle gown in ombré colors sparkling with Swarovskis was unmistakably Cinco. “I got a call from Miss Universe manager esther Swan and she told me that Iris wanted to wear a couture gown from me for her final walk because she fell in love with Pia’s gown,” Cinco said over Facebook chat. “I was actually surprised because I thought she will wear a French designer because she is from Paris.” The safest assumption was that Mittenaere will wear Jean-Paul Gaultier, the French master who serves as the president of the jury that selects Miss France and who became her good friend. But she still was able to showcase her country’s preeminence in couture when she wore an immaculate column gown with sculptural shoulder detail by compatriot Stephane Rolland during her first appearance earlier in the night. The Dubai-based Cinco continued: “I had a conference call with Miss U stylist Marquis Bias and Iris. She specifically told me that she wanted ruby red for her gown. We discussed about the designs and I sent sketches to her for her to choose from.”
Miss Universe 2016 Iris Mittenaere
Photo courtesy of the Miss Universe Organization
For her final walk, Cinco disclosed, Wurtzbach chose the cobalt blue color, “because that’s the color of the gown [designed by Albert Andrada] that she wore when she won in 2015. This time, Iris wanted ruby red. It’s a different silhouette because she wanted a mermaid gown with a train from the back. It’s very different from Pia’s gown but it has the distinct Michael Cinco trademark.” Cinco admitted that has always his dream to see his couture gowns on hollywood red carpets and onstage like Miss Universe. “My all-time favorite Miss Universe is Miss Russia Oxana Fedorova, who was dethroned in 2002. She is the most beautiful,” Cinco gushed. “And I was so happy when I was contacted by the Miss Russia organization to make the evening gown of their candidate, Kseniya Alexandrova.” Alexandrova visited Cinco in Dubai a few weeks before the Miss Universe event to pick her evening gown. And what do you know, it was a similar design that Mittenaere also eventually chose. had Alexandrova worn her Cinco gown at the preliminaries, she might
PAGE B1 The film also discusses the very relatable experiences of being young and curious, and negotiating that precociousness with a demanding parent who only wants what’s best for her children. But what comes out of the woodwork is the relentless love between a mother and son who overcome pride and allow love and resilience to win. The story is charmingly funny, but deals with very serious, but common familial disputes. “I think whether you’re a Filipino or a person of a different nationality, the themes that the movie explored are universal and there’s a way you can relate to the characters and the experiences,” co-director and co-writer Ibanez told the Asian Journalafter the film’s premiere at the American Film Institute in Los Feliz. hemedez and Ibanez met in 2014 when they were both writers for soap operas on ABS-CBN. Both made short films in college and knew they would eventually want to create feature films. As writers for the teleserye “Nasaan Ka Nang Kailangan Kita,” they had gotten close, often co-writing episodes together and pondered the idea of creating a feature length film together. Somewhere in that collective brainstorming came the idea of “1st Sem.” “Our strongest asset going into filmmaking was that we had experience writing and we know how to tell the stories that are charactercentered,” Ibanez said. “That was our strength. But when it comes to creating, directing and producing a feature-length film, that’s a totally different game.” As an independent film with a very tight budget, the filmmakers faced a slew of commonly-experienced problems on set. But one of the biggest obstacles came in the form of an unnamed producer who stopped showing up to the set and
Written and directed by Allan Ibanez and Dexter Hernandez, “1st Sem” is a coming-of-age comedy-drama. Photos courtesy of Allan Ibanez and Dexter Hemedez
had stolen money from an already meager production budget. This matter lost them two very crucial filming days and delayed the pay of many of the film’s production crew and equipment. Stressed out and nervous for the film’s future, hemedez and Ibanez did everything they can to, at the very least, get the film completed. “I couldn’t get up for two months because of it. I got really depressed,” Ibanez said. “We really needed those two shooting days. We went to the bank to inquire if they would give us a loan. That’s how desperate we were in making this film.” “No matter how big the problems we really tried to finish it in the best possible way because without the finished product it will be a lot worse. Thank God there are people in the Philippines who championed our film and posted about it on social media. It’s the start, it’s the little buzz that started everything for us.” The buzz then got people talking about the film, which led to its release. Then a miracle happened. After one of their first screenings, an investor approached them after the screening to tell them he loved the film. he proceeded to pay off all their debts, which have allowed them to bring the film to the in-
have had a greater chance to move forward to the finals. “I’m just a bit upset because Miss Russia didn’t make it to the Top 16 and wasn’t able to show her gown. I told her to wear the gown in prelims because it’s so beautiful but the Russian Org wanted her to wear the gown on finals night only,” Cinco related. The MUO and the Miss Russia organization were both told by Cinco that Mittenaere and Alexandrova have chosen the same gowns. “The gowns had similar color and design but Russia’s had different crystal embroidery treatment and Iris’ had more of an ombré.” Pageant fans, who are also invariably fashion aficionados, immediately saw Cinco’s imprint on the bustier ballgown of Mittenaere. “It’s so heart-warming when I got so many messages from people asking me if I made Iris’s gown coz it’s very Michael Cinco,” the designer to royals, celebrities and oligarch’s daughters said. “I think the biggest achievement of a designer is when people recognize your style.” In an Instagram post, Iris Dexter Hemedez, Lotlot de Leon, Allan Ibanez and Darwin Yu during the closing ceremonies of thanked Michael for her “amazing the All Lights India International Film Festival where “1st Sem” won in the Best Feature Film of Debut Directors Category. dress.”
Thanksgiving Day is one of the busiest travel days of the year — whether by land or air.
ternational stage and has been noticed by many film festivals. Despite that period of chaos, the filmmakers said they feel lucky to have experienced the harsh reality of filmmaking and are working on another project together. Throughout the struggles, they remain smiling and proud of the finished product. In a way, the creation of this film was the filmmakers’ very own coming-of-age journey. “This film, in a way, was like our first semester in filmmaking,” hemedez remarked. “I feel like we grew a lot throughout this. We learned a lot and we were able to push through despite all the hardship.” Since opening last year, the “1st Sem” has enjoyed great success, screening around the world and garnering several international cinema accolades including the Grand Jury Prize at the San Diego International Kids Film Festival, Special Jury Award at Festival Angaelica and Best Debut Feature at the All Lights India International Film Festival among several others. Receiving awards for a first feature film is not uncommon, but on the international stage, it’s a totally different game, hemedez said. But in a world that’s becoming more accepting of films from a wider variety of nations, the filmmakers knew the story — “a small film with a big heart,” fans have told them — would be universally relatable. “The awards surprise us, but at the same time we knew from the beginning it was a story that is necessary to be told,” Ibanez said. “So when people approach us saying they loved the film, we are very thankful, and we’re very proud that we’re bringing a Filipino movie to these festivals. In a way, Filipino cinema is being appreciated abroad and that’s something we’re very proud and thankful for.”
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Philippine DOT invites Las Vegas Fil-Am community to ‘Bring Home a Friend’ by AJPress To continue promoting the Philippines as a must-visit travel destination, the country’s Department of Tourism (DoT) is pushing its “Bring Home a Friend” (BHAF) program that encourages Filipinos to invite foreigners to the country. The BHAF campaign was formally launched in Las Vegas by DoT-Los Angeles Tourism Attaché Richmond Jimenez at the Asian Culture Center on Satur- DOT Secretary Wanda Tulfo Teo invites Filipinos Warren Mangio, a physical therapist and day, November 25, with special to “bring home a friend.” a certified wound specialist at Sunrise guests DoT Secretary Wanda Hospital, shares his experience as a first National Geographic. Corazon Tulfo Teo, Consul Gen“All these other foreigners are responder during the Las Vegas shooting eral Adelio Cruz, travel agents, and members of the Filipino- starting to come over and just en- in October. joy the country. So it’s about time back. Go to our country’),’” Teo American community. “We know very well that holi- for us to actually do our share, try told the audience. “‘Yun po ang day season is coming up and we to rediscover your roots, so this is reason (That’s the reason) why have friends and family who are actually one good start — to join we launched this Bring Home a making it to the [Philippines],” Bring Home a Friend. Invite peo- Friend because we need you to be Jimenez said. “There are those ple over and you can get to win ambassadors of the Philippines.” Teo announced the revival of who already booked their flights awesome prizes,” he said. “Gusto namin na kayo na mismo, the BHAF program — which was from Vegas the Philippines from this time until April next year. So na kapag umuwi kayo sa Pilipinas, first launched by former Tourism we would like to have you all take nakita niyo na yung lugar natin, Secretary Mina Gabor in 1994 advantage of this opportunity be- will you come back dito sa States — this past october. BHAF details cause what’s great about this is and you could all tell your friends A video was shown at the na, ‘Ang ganda sa Pilipinas. Bumregistration is for free.” Jimenez added that now is the alik kayo. Pumunta kayo sa lugar event featuring actor Piolo Pasbest time to go to the Philippines namin. (We want you, that if you cual, wherein he showed that the given that many of the country’s go to the Philippines, and you saw program is easy to join by simislands have received accolades our country, you will come back to ply: Invite, Accept, Travel and from magazines like Conde Nast the States and tell your friends that Register! To be a sponsor, individuals Traveler, Travel and Leisure, and ‘The Philippines is beautiful. Go must be: a) 18 years old or over and, b) be either a Filipino with dual citizenship living in the Philippines or abroad as a resident or overseas worker, or a foreigner living in the Philippines permanently or temporarily for a minimum of six months before the raffle. To qualify as an invitee, individuals must: a) hold a foreign passport or dual citizenship living abroad for a minimum of six The DOT’s “Bring Home a Friend” program was launched at the Asian Culture Center in Las months before the raffle b) have Vegas on Saturday, November 25. traveled to the Philippines during a certain period of time. Prizes available to the sponsors include a condominium provided by Megaworld Corp. located in Eastwood, Libis (1st prize), a brand new Toyota Vios (2nd prize), and a P200,000 gift certificate from Duty Free Philippines (3rd prize). The sponsors’ foreign invitees can win round-trip business class plane tickets and trip packages to Palawan, Cebu and Davao — with all-expense paid stays at various resorts, such as El Nido and Pearl Farm. Guests at the presentation included Hansel and Fina Lopez, Chona and Ernie Galvez, and To register for the promotion, Asian Journal Publications Publisher and CEO Roger Oriel
Members of the Fil-Am community in Las Vegas meet DOT Assistant Secretary Frederick Alegre (far left), Consul General Adelio Cruz (second from left), and DOT Secretary Wanda Tulfo Teo (center). AJPress photos by Robert Macabagdal
Jing Hernando of Philippine Airlines, DOT-San Francisco Tourism Attaché Purificacion Molintas, DOT Assistant Secretary Frederick Alegre, DOT Secretary Wanda Tulfo Teo, Consul General Adelio Cruz, DOT-LA Tourism Attaché Richmond Jimenez, and DOT-LA Administrative Officer Fay Castro.
sponsors must log onto the official BHAF website (www.bringhomeafriend.online) and sign up for Sponsor Registration. Then, they must log in and fill out the Invite a Friend Now form which sends invites to prospective guests; sponsors may send as many invites as desired. Invitees will then receive an email and will need to fill out an application that requires uploaded photos of their passport, airline ticket and boarding pass as proof of travel. once the application and all the relevant documents are submitted, invitees will receive an email with coupon numbers. Depending on the invitee’s current residence, invitees will receive two or three raffle entries: folks from Asia and Australia/oceania will receive two entries and those that hail from Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North and South America will receive three entries.
DOT-Los Angeles Tourism Attaché Richmond Jimenez details the specifics of the DOT’s “Bring Home a Friend” program.
The BHAF promotion, which started on october 15, 2017, is valid until April 15, 2018. Prize winners will be announced shortly after the promotion ends. In addition to BHAF, Jimenez is calling on the public to participate in a photo contest with DoT
Eppie & Nestor Cruz of Sunrise Travel & Tours
billboards and posters in Los Angeles. If you take a selfie and use the hashtags #PDoTLAContest and #ItsMoreFunInthePhillipines, “you may get a chance to win a trip to the Philippines by the end of the campaign which is by January 2018,” he said. n
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Kris defends ‘Ate’ Ballsy, threatens ‘Aquino haters’
The Megastar is happy to be back on a movie set after her seven-year hiatus from showbiz.
Erstwhile ‘Bad Boy of Philippine Cinema’ is honored as ever to share the screen with his ‘Ma’am Sharon’. Photos from Star Cinema
Robin Padilla: ‘I’m here because Sharon needed me’ by Tessa
Mauricioa-arriola ManilaTimes.net
WHILE it was clear Megastar Sharon Cuneta would rather not recall her botched reunion movie with ex-husband Gabby Concepcion, she could neither hide how touched she was that an ex-boyfriend-turned-lifetime ally came to save the day. Over the weekend, Star Cinema held the grand media conference for “Unexpectedly Yours,” its latest romantic-comedy opening today, with the Mega sharing lead billing with action star Robin Padilla. Candid as ever, Robin suddenly blurted out, “Hindi ko naman talaga pelikula ito eh. Pelikula ng Sharon-Gabby ito…” And just as Sharon tried to shush the delightfully rough and rugged idol of the male masses—squealing, “We totally scrapped that project!” almost in panic—Robin, as usual, gallantly made his leading lady feel like the most important woman in the world. “Pero nakarating sa akin kailangan mo ko,” he turned to his flustered showbiz icon, calming her down almost instantaneously, and finally setting the tone for an enjoyable and animated Q&A for the rest of the sitting. “Ginagawa ko kung ‘Bad Boy 3’ at ‘Marcelo del Pilar’ para sa produksyon ko, pero tinawagan ako ni Cory Vidanes [of Star Cinema] at sinabing, ‘Kailangan ka ni Sharon,’ kaya nung sumulpot ako, ‘nun sila gumawa ng konsepto para sa amin. Ito na nga yung ‘Unexpectedly Yours’, ako lang ang makakagawa nitong role na ito—wala nang iba!” Robin completed his speech to rousing applause and laughter. The Megastar, clearly enter-
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tained too and flattered by her good friend, then could not help but lavish the magnanimous actor with just as much importance. “It’s was 1991 when we did our first movie together [the blockbuster hit, “Maging Sino Ka Man]and I think 16 since our last [t[the equally successful “Pagdating ng Panahon”]and up to now, I always, always enjoy working with Robin. Like I’ve said before, we are the other gender’s versions of each other—we have the same sense of humor, we treat other people the same way, and masaya lang talaga, so doing this movie with him was really a treat for me,” she cheerfully said. Officially marking her return to mainstream cinema after a sevenyear hiatus from show business [she] did an indie for Cinemalaya, “Ang Pamilyang Lumuluha” in August]aron clearly missed the movie set, and despite lacking sleep from shooting the night before, looked invigorated and gratified in being able to act for the cameras again. “Unexpectedly Yours is definitely in my Top 3 favorite movies that I’ve done, with our director Cathy Garcia-Molina also in my Top 3 favorite directors now,” she enthused. One of the story’s writers, Vanessa Valdez [“Se[“Seven Sunday”]hile, affirmed Sharon’s fervor for moviemaking, to the extent that she was gratefully surprised the Megastar was very willing to essay a role other showbiz icons might be hesitant to do. “I’m so happy that Ma’am Sharon was willing to star in a story about a 50-year-old menopausal woman’s adventures in dating to show the audience how it is to be in love at that age,” Valdez
elaborated. And much as the Megastar, ever the transparent darling of show business, squirmed in her seat at the mention of the word “menopausal,” she happily addressed The T-Zone’s question on how she feels about the prospect of going into the generally dreaded stage of a woman’s life. “It’s a reality we all have to face at this age,” Sharon began. “In fact two friends of mine have also gone into menopause and we always talk about it. If only we could have snow here by the time I go into mine, I’ll be OK,” she added laughing. “Kasi mainitin talaga ako, and even in the movie, we made a big show of how my character Patty is always holding one of those battery-operated fans.” After a short pause to gather her thoughts, she continued, “I live a simple life, and I especially did when I took a break from showbiz to be with my children. I missed doing this but that’s an experience that is irreplaceable, but at my age I just feel happy that I’m here again doing a movie, doing what I love all over again, so I think I’ll be OK with whatever else comes along. Menopause included.” As for Robin, who seemed simply happy to give the floor to the Megastar for her movie comeback, he sweetly said of working with Sharon anew, “Ganun pa rin ako. Hindi na ako naalis sa fan mentality ko kaya ang naiisip ko lang, ‘Wow, nahalikan ko na naman si Sharon Cuneta’.” Now what woman can say she doesn’t need to hear that even once in a while? “Unexpectedly Yours” also stars Julia Barretto and Joshua Garcia.
PSYCHIC
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QUEEN of all media Kris Aquino on Tuesday, Nov. 28, took to social media to defend her eldest sister Ballsy Aquino-Cruz after being implicated in a multibillionpeso road right-of-way scam. In a lengthy Instagram post with a photo of quote “she’s a Queen with a little bit of savage,” Kris said Ballsy is her favorite sibling. Kris narrated how she got disowned when she was pregnant with her first child Josh, and her eldest sister was the only sibling who was there with her in the hospital when she gave birth to Josh. “That’s just how she is- she has loved me unconditionally. No judgment, just a reassurance that I’d never be alone because she always believed I’d manage to right my life’s wrongs—that is FAITH,” Kris wrote. Kris then said she would “take a bullet” for Ballsy amid the allegations linking her eldest sister and brother-in-law, Eldon Cruz in a road right-of-way scam. “So this is me saying- HURT HER by spreading more unfounded lies about her & her husband and you will really push me to my very worst,” the actress-host said.
In this October 2017 file photo, Kris Aquino faces the media for an interview. Philstar.com photo by Efigenio Christopher Toledo IV
“I mean it when I say for my Ate I will take a bullet. Or worse, make the worst nightmare of all Aquino haters come true,” she added. Kris noted that her Instagram post is a “simple, clear, and real” message vouching for her family. On Monday, Nov. 27, Ballsy and Eldon were tagged in an P8.7 billion road right-of-way scam after whistleblower Roberto Catapang Jr. showed to the media a let-
ter supposedly signed by Eldon endorsing one of the projects secured through fake land titles. Ballsy and Eldon’s son, Jiggy Cruz, however defended his father and said allegation that Eldon is involved in the anomaly is “absurd and ridiculous.” He said that the letter presented by the Department of Justice at a press conference on Monday shows a fake signature. (Philstar.com)
Maria Isabel Lopez’s license revoked, fined P8K by Gaea
KaTreena Philstar.com
cabico
THE Land Transportation Office on Monday, Nov. 27, revoked the driver’s license of actress and former beauty queen Maria Isabel Lopez for using the traffic lane reserved for ASEAN delegates. Lopez, who is disqualified to apply for a driver’s license for two
Maria Isabel Lopez
Philstar.com photo
years, was ordered to surrender her driver’s license card upon the receipt of the resolution. Aside from the revocation of her driver’s license, she will also pay fines amounting to P1,000 for disregarding traffic signs, P2,000 for reckless driving and P5,000 for violation of the AntiDistracted Driving Act. The resolution stated that the violations of Lopez were “very serious and apparently very persuasive that they cannot be simply swept under the rug.” “Essentially, respondent’s violations constitute the offense of reckless driving, which is defined as an act that must be something more than a mere negligence in the operation of the motor vehicle, but a willful and wanton disregard of the consequences as what respondent manifested in the instant case,” the resolution read. The resolution also noted that Lopez endangered the lives not only of the dignitaries but the lives of other commuters, as well as herself. “Had there been a serious mis-
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hap in involving foreign guests, it would have caused an international incident,” it read. Lopez appeared before LTO Law Enforcement Service Director Francis Almora last November 16 to explain her breaching a security lane during the ASEAN Summit. She asked the agency not to single her out for using the special lane as there were also other motorists who did the same. The 55-year-old actress said she was prompted to violate the ASEAN’s traffic protocol because she needed a bladder break after having been on the road for hours. A social media post of Lopez recently became viral after she bragged that she drove on the designated ASEAN lane with her hazard lights on. She also said that she removed the divider cones for the said lanes. She then apologized but argued that she violated traffic rules because she had been made “a second-class citizen” by the designation of a special lane for the ASEAN Summit.
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For immigrants’ contributions to America: A thank you! Your Immigration Solution atty. NaNCy Miller Have you ever considered that america’s most famous icon is an immigrant? That’s right! The Statue of Liberty was “born” in France and brought to america by ship. The quintessential symbol of american liberty and freedom, Lady Liberty herself, is an “immigrant”. as the late Senator Ted Kennedy said “Immigration is the story of american History. Over the centuries, immigrants came to america from every part of the globe and made the american dream. They created a nation that is the envy of the world.” “They came to a land that offers freedom and opportunity to those willing to do their part.” and do their part, they have! Immigrants have contributed to and enriched every aspect of american life. They built our cities, our railroads and highways. They cultivated our farmlands. They fought to defend their adopted home in every
Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS (Conclusion) LaST week, we took our readers in a journey back to year 1628, almost 400 years ago, when blood circulation, as we know it today, was “discovered,” understood, and accepted by medical science for the first time. This fundamental information inspired and led to cascading advances, one after the other, in medicine as a whole, and in cardiovascular medicine and surgery in particular. One discovery enabled the invention of more sophisticated diagnostic and therapeutic measures or procedures. The cutting-edge and state-of-the-art medical and surgical procedures available to patients today were made possible and ushered in by those past proven concepts and evidencebased discoveries. The first right heart angiography in human was done in 1929 by Werner Forssmann on himself. He was derided as crazy but was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1956, which he shared with andre Cournand and Dickinson Richards, who introduced diagnostic cardiac catheterization in the early 1940s. Selective coronary angiography, which is used today worldwide to diagnose coronary artery disease (which causes
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond MoNette aDeva Maglaya (Continued from last week) HaLF a lifetime later and half a world away, I have forgotten much about the murdered american soldier. Buried in the mists of time, his story would have remained shelved, tucked away in my memory banks and promptly forgotten until I came across an account of that incident long ago on the internet. Written by virgilio Lacaba, I read a long, detailed article, perhaps a reprint, on “Strange Occurrences at the UP” and like a flood, everything came rushing back as though it happened yesterday. Weeks after the session, I remember being interviewed for an article in a then popular weekly magazine, Mr. & Ms., by Neni Santa Romana Cruz, a wellknown Filipino writer who also happened to be the elder sister of a good friend from St. Scholastica’s College, the kind and gentle Chona Santa Romana, who incidentally and sadly, I learned much later, was herself a tragic victim of murder and domestic foul play, sometime in the late eighties. I had left the country for america by then and lost touch. I do remember that during the interview for the article I have had to be careful in how the story is presented because I was living, working and studying in an academic environment, which by default should place reason and scientific explanation on everything that happens in the world. Paranormal phenomenon is an entirely different ball of wax that supposedly rational beings do not normally subscribe to, something that would raise skeptical brows. Yet I have found that life is not entirely rational, a lot of things don’t make sense and we have only begun to chip away at the great mysteries of life that lay
branch of the U.S. military. and, they even gave us Thanksgiving, the quintessential american holiday. The first recorded Thanksgiving ceremony took place on September 8, 1565 when 600 Spanish settlers landed in what is now St. augustine, Florida and immediately held a Mass of Thanksgiving for their safe delivery to the New World. The Mass was followed by a feast and celebration. a Spanish expedition party rested and conducted a mass at San elizario (near el Paso, Texas) in celebration of thanksgiving on april 30, 1598. On December 4, 1619, 38 english settlers arrived at Berkeley Hundred, which is about 20 miles north of Jamestown, virginia. The group’s charter required that the day of arrival be observed yearly as a day of thanksgiving to G-d. The modern Thanksgiving holiday is associated with a 1621 celebration at the Plymouth Plantation where the Pilgrims held a feast after a successful growing season. Sqauanto, a Native american who served as an interpreter for the english-speaking colony had taught the Pilgrims how to catch eel and grow corn. The Pilgrims set aside a day to celebrate immediately after their first
harvest. That Thanksgiving feast lasted for three days and provided enough food for 53 pilgrims and 90 Native americans. It consisted of fowl, venison, lobster, clams, berries, fruit, pumpkin, squash and turkey. Since that time, a Thanksgiving Day has been proclaimed and celebrated periodically throughout our nationhood. However, the date was not officially set as the fourth Thursday of November until 1942. Regardless of where the immigrants came from and no matter when they arrived, they shared something in common with each other and with those who come to our shores today. They all wanted a better life for themselves and their families. They were also willing to work hard to get that better life. and, they were profoundly grateful to the country that gave them the opportunity for betterment. That is all still true. It is also still true that the country that benefitted so much from the early immigrants continues to benefit from those who come to our shores today. They bring energy and skill that enrich the lives of those with whom they come in contact. They start businesses and create jobs. They provide wonderful examples of family devotion by
the sacrifices they make to unite their families here and support their loved ones back home. at RMZD, we know how important families are. We recognize how much america owes to each person who has brought a unique contribution to this country. and we continue to strive to obtain justice and fairness for them. Fairness and justice means granting lawful status to those who devote their life and energy to make and keep this country great. It is fulfilling the promise of Lady Liberty who lifts her light of liberty beside
a full-blown heart attack and save heart muscles and save lives. This has dramatically improved survival from heart attack. Angioplasty opens new horizons In 1977, the first angioplasty was performed by andreas Gruentzig, M.D., of Zurich, Switzerland, to “open up” a tight blockage in a coronary artery. This was improved on by the invention of “stent” (a tiny mesh tube of coiled spring, like car shock absorbers) to keep the angioplastied artery from re-collapsing and re-closing. The stainless steel stents were then improved on with the introduction of drug-coated stents that keep the angioplastied artery patent (open) much longer. Robotic heart surgery In May 1998, the first coronary bypass using the da vinci robot was performed with a mini-chest incision. a year later, the first totally endoscopic da vinci robotic coronary bypass surgery was accomplished with no chest incision, except for small holes, through which instruments were inserted and manipulated. With the more sophisticated da vinci robots today, cardiac surgery and other specialty surgeries are routinely performed. There are at least 21 industrial robotic firms and 11 surgical robotic companies in the United States. Robotic surgery is a standard part of the surgical residency PAGE B6
The curious case of Stephen C. Davis A ghost story
“...he was no more than a lonely soul whose young life was cut down so suddenly and so tragically one dark moonless night...” before us. I am thus convinced that quite possibly, I am just one of the multitudes the world over who believe that there are things in the universe that are far beyond the scope of reason and known science to explain and things that are far beyond human intelligence to comprehend fully. Quite plainly, there are things in this world that cannot be defined, completely understood and pegged in a nice, neat box. The curious case of this murdered american soldier reaching out from the grave is probably one of them. as a postcript decades later, Lacaba updated the account by verifying the information about Stephen Davies with the american Battle Monuments Commission (http: //www.abmc. gov/search/detailwwnew.php). Something may have been lost in the spelling and translation during the sessions, for there were two entries for Stephen Davis (there was no e though in the Davis) — one was Stephen e. Davis, a US air Force officer who was killed in Hawaii and whose remains were never recovered and a Stephen C. Davis. The latter was listed as Seaman, First Class, U.S. Navy, with Service # 3759920 and that he had entered the service in California. The approximate date of death was December 15, 1945 in Manila, Philippines. Davis earned a Purple Heart award posthumously. Just like the other Davis in Hawaii, there were no remains recovered. The name of Stephen C. Davis is in-
scribed in one of the hemicycles on the west side in the american Cemetery near Forbes Park and what used to be Fort Bonifacio, a military camp sold to private real estate developers during the nineteen nineties and now known as The Fort in Global City. There is absolutely no way to verify every minute detail of this cold murder case unless one is a tenacious private investigator with the mixed pedigree of a bloodhound and a bulldog. One thing that comes across clearly, at least to me, is that the ghost of Stephen C. Davis, whether real or conjured by hypnotic suggestion, didn’t seem to be obsessed with vengeance or justice although he did seem knowledgeable about his killer’s whereabouts. Underneath the bone-chilling poltergeist tactics his restless soul employed to reach out from beyond the grave, he was no more than a lonely soul whose young life was cut down so suddenly and so tragically one dark moonless night. Stuck in a nebulous, nether world between the living and the world beyond, nothing seemed to be as important to this murdered american soldier as being remembered. It didn’t matter even if the remembrance is by a motley crew of curious, total strangers. With a sigh of relief over the realization that the spirit was neither malevolent nor malicious, Stephen C. Davis would probably have to deal with an incensed group of total strangers who would gladly take turns putPAGE B7
*** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration fi rms in the United States with offi ces in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Manila and China. For more Information please call (800) 7958009 or visit www.rreeves.com. Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case. (Advertising Supplement)
Saint Anne Roman Catholic Church 1901 South Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, Nevada 89104
Come and celebrate with us !!!
SIMBANG GABI @ 8:30PM Dec.15(Fri) Health and Care Professional Network, Inc. Dec.16 (Sat) Sto Niño de Cebu Dec.17 (Sun) @ 5:00 PM with El Shaddai Prayer Group Dec.18 (Mon) Servants of Christ and Holy Spirit CCPC Dec.19 (Tue) Couples for Christ Dec.20 (Wed) Families of Christ Jesus Community Dec.21 (Thu) Alliance of the Two Hearts Dec.22 (Fri) Fr. Manny @ 7:00 PM with Samahan ng Mahal na Birheng Maria, Knights of Columbus, Divine Mercy and the Loved Flock Dec.23 (Sat) Sunrise Hospital Staff and Families of St. Anne School
History: cardiac surgery heart attack), was introduced by Mason Sones of the Cleveland Clinic in the 1960s. Rene Favaloro of argentina, also on the staff at the Cleveland Clinic, pioneered in the technique of coronary bypass surgery in the early 60s, which is used today with refinements. In 1962, autogenous saphenous vein grafts were used for coronary bypass by D. Sabiston. The first reported use of Internal Mammary artery (from behind the breast bone) as coronary grafts was performed by R. Goetz in 1960 using sutureless technique. Four years later, v. Kolessov did the first sutured IMa as coronary bypass grafts. IMa grafts are superior to veins grafts. It was not until the early 70s that the full impact of Forssmann discovery was realized when Marcus De Wood, M.D., of Spokane, Washington, used coronary angiography to search for blockages in the coronary artery. as late as that time, the accepted concept was that heart attacks were “merely the last gasp of a dying heart,” a gloomy and hopeless situation that could not be treated or altered or improved. His concept and research were ostracized and derided. In 1980, De Wood was able to prove by angiography his theory that virtually in every heart attack there was a clot blocking the artery. This was a revolutionary change in cardiology which has led to the modern clot-dissolving therapy to prevent
the golden door. Since 1947, each year for Thanksgiving the President of the United States has pardoned a live turkey to allow it to live out its days in peace. Surely a country that has compassion for its turkeys can show compassion for its people. With all due respect, we remind the President and First Lady and the members of Congress that they are either immigrants or descendants of immigrants and will treat the immigrant community with the respect and dignity that they received when they got here. From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!
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May our eager and joyful waiting for the coming of Our Lord Jesus in our Simbang Gabi make our cold nights warm and familial as we complete the nine days novena Mass with Christmas carols and community feast!
For more information regarding the Simbang Gabi Celebration, please contact: Fatima, Parish Secretary(702) 735-0510 Warren Mangio (702) 266-5177 Myrna Baluyut (702) 577-7043 Cris Pelayo (702) 245-6235
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Historic Filipinotown parol parade and festival in Los Angeles The Historic Filipinotown Neighborhood Council (HFNC) announced that the annual parade and festival will be on Friday, December 1 from 6:00 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event will start with the assembly of parols and vehicles at 250 N. Union St. at the Our Lady of Lorreto Catholic Church courtyard. The parade will start at 5 p.m. and will go westward from Union to Beverly, and will eventually end up at the FCC/FACLA compound at 1740 W. Temple St., Los Angeles, CA 90026. The HFNC is calling for volunteers who will serve as security, ushers, for registration and monitors for the parade. To volunteer, please call Art at (213)318-9065. For more information, please contact Cecile at (213) 503-8176.
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Pasko Na Naman in Glendale, CA The Federation of Filipino Rosary Groups will sponsor a fundraiser entitled “Pasko Na Naman 2” on Saturday, December 2 at the Glendale Civic Auditorium (1401 N. Verdugo Road, Glendale, CA 91208) starting at 4 p.m. The presentation’s theme is Salo-salo at Pagdiriwang” which means “getting together joyfully.” The show will provide a glimpse on how Filipinos celebrate Christmas in the Philippines, which will be depicted through choral singing and folk dancing. The performers are Malaya Filipino American Dance Arts, St. Lorenzo Ruiz Parish Choir, Monique Magpayo and Kurt Winterhalter. Benefactors of proceeds include but are not limited to: Channel of Charity, Filipino Priests Association of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, feeding programs and FFRG faith formation events. Come one! Come All! Feel the scents and sights of Filipino Christmas. The audience will also enjoy “merienda cena” during the intermission. Ticket donation is $45.00 per person. For souvenir ad and ticket information, please contact Tess Domingo at (909) 855-2208 or Carol Evangelista at (909) 969-3316.
Free oil filter exchange in Alhambra, CA
Attention all Alhambra residents! Free oil filter & motor oil recycling event on Saturday, December 2! 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. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at AutoZone located at 1100 W. Commonwealth Ave., Alhambra, CA 91803.
6th annual grand reunion of the UPHPEIS Alumni Association of North America in Whittier, CA Join the 6th Annual Grand Reunion of the UPHPEIS Alumni Association of North America on Saturday, December 2. UP High, UP Prep, Elementary and Integrated School alumni are welcome. The reunion will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at DoubleTree by Hilton Whittier (7320 Greenleaf Ave, Whittier, CA 90602). Tickets cost only $60 per person. Registration starts at 10:30 a.m. Come early! There will be a buffet lunch and entertainment. Seating is limited, so make your reservations now! Contacts: Alice Cabel-Ramos (aramos.us@gmail. com), Bobby Canseco (562-607-8839) or Ellery Atienza (323-497-3492). Find the association on Facebook by searching UPHPEIS Alumni Association of North America.
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Arnel Pineda in Los Angeles Arnel Pineda, the lead singer of the internationally acclaimed rock band JOURNEY, will be in Los Angeles on Sunday, December 3 at the famed Orpheum Theatre in downtown Los Angeles. The show begins at 6 p.m. VIP ticket ($200) includes CD, concert tour shirt, meet & greet. Other ticket prices are $150, $100, $75 or $50. For sponsorship and tickets, please call or text: Trini Foliente at (626) 818-7147; Cora Soriano at (213) 999-1993 or Andy Tecson at (323) 467-5096.
d Ec E m b E R 27-29
Ateneo de Naga High School Class ’67 celebrates 50th anniversary in Naga City The Ateneo de Naga University (ADNU) High School Class 1967 is celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2017 from December 27 to 29 with various activities lined up for its 153 alumni members. (ADNU is a leading Jesuit university in the Bicol region located in Naga City, Camarines Sur, Philippines). The activities include the publication of its 50thAnniversary Yearbook, a coffee table book which features the individual life stories of the class members after high school, tributes to their mentors, and various articles about school life in the 1960s. Also scheduled for the middle of the year is a golf tournament which — aside from fostering camaraderie — will essentially be a fund-raising activity for planned alumni projects such as a medical mission to a remote provincial town, scholarships, and donations for other worthy causes. This year’s reunion will be at the ADNU main campus in Naga City with various fun and commemorative activities lined up for the occasion. All batch members, wherever they are domiciled, including those residing in foreign countries, especially those in the USA and Canada, are enjoined to contribute their life story articles for the anniversary book as soon as possible, to participate in the various identified activities and outreach projects, and attend the grand homecoming in December. For coordination and for details about the events and activities, please email or call up any of the following batch members: Jojo de Jesus (email: jvdejesus6@yahoo.com; cell: 09772114750); Nilo Ezequiel (email: nilo. ezequiel0977@gmail.com; cell: 09257200926; Antonio Sibulo, MD (email: assjrmd@gmail. com).
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The anatomy of Mocha Uson’s ‘popularity’ Pia calls out PDEA, media for baring suspect’s HIV status by Gaea
By Monet
Lu
After much thought and her staggering ‘virality,’ I have decided to put into writing the curiosity that’s been building up in me regarding this entertainerturned-blogger-turned-government official Margaux ‘Mocha’ Uson. Yes, friends, it has come to this: that I dedicate a column for the purpose of analyzing what the fuss is and why this woman is gaining popularity – for contradictory reasons. I do not know Uson personally but my newsfeed is filled with news about her – some good but most of it are not-so-good, all the while leading to my ultimate question: who is Mocha Uson? As I mentioned earlier, I’ve read that she was an entertainer (she also did a few movies) who became a blogger and has about 5.4 million followers on facebook, then became a government official specifically the appointed assistant secretary of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO). Apparently, the ‘giant leap’ from her former career to her present role was met with much controversy not only because of her reputation as a former ‘sexy star’ but because of her relentless devotion to President rodrigo Duterte during his presidential campaign – which some said was the reason why she was appointed in the first place. there were also allegations that she has been spreading false information and that did not sit well with the mass majority. Another reason she is drawing flak is because of her blog, which they say, “glorifies President Duterte and sends the message that the President can do no wrong.” But before we dig deep into whether these observations are factual or not, I wanted to allocate some writing space for these information I’ve put together about Mocha Uson. Born Margaux Justiniano Uson on May 17, 1982 in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, she is known professionally as Mocha Uson or by her stage name Mocha. She is a filipino singer, dancer, model,
Mocha Uson
blogger best known as the lead vocalist of the Mocha Girls. Her mother, estrellita Uson, was a pediatrician in Dagupan. In 2010, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer but is now cancerfree after undergoing treatment. Uson first gained popularity as the leader of the Mocha Girls, an all-female dance group. they have released a couple of albums and performed in various venues throughout the Philippines, United States, Dubai, and Guam. She also had a series of online videos giving sex tips. She once stirred controversy for the ways she showed her support in causes like breast cancer awareness and the passage of the then-reproductive Health Bill. Uson started as a solo singerdancer blogger performing in bars around Metro Manila. She was popular for her sexy image & on-stage antics, which included lap dances. for a time, she served as the lead vocalist of the rock band Mocha With Spin Art. Unbeknownst to most people, Uson earned a degree in medical technology from the University of Santo tomas, she then attended medical school in the same university for two years before dropping out to pursue a career in the music industry. She attended the Mother Goose Special School System for her elementary and high school education. Uson maintained a blog which made her one of the most widely read commentators in the Philippines. She uses her blog to provide commentary and advice on sex-related issues and to host online video chats. the blog has over 20 million hits as of June 2016. During the 2016 Philippine presidential elections, Mocha’s blog posts started to focus on politics. Her facebook page,
Inquirer.net photo
MOCHA USON BLOG, contained posts actively supporting President rodrigo Duterte and his anti-drug campaign. the blog also criticizes the Philippines’ top newsgroups - ABS-CBN, GMA Network, the Philippine Daily Inquirer, and rappler which she has labeled as “Presstitutes” – a portmanteau of press and prostitute. She has also criticized Vice President Leni robredo, Senators Leila de Lima and Antonio trillanes, and the Liberal Party. One of the reasons behind Mocha’s support for Duterte, whom she believes would end criminality in the country, was the failure of justice in the assassination of her father, Judge Oscar Uson. On May 8, 2017, Uson’s fearless attack on President Duterte’s detractors and her unyielding campaign for President rodrigo Duterte paid off. the president later on appointed Uson as assistant secretary of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), handling the social media department of the PCOO. Before taking on the PCOO post, she was a board member of the Movie and television review and Classification Board (MtrCB). Her term at the censor’s board started in January 2017 and was supposed to end on September 30, 2017. Sometime in March, Mocha Uson’s twitter account got suspended. According to twitter, the common reasons for suspending an account include spam, account security is at risk or abusive tweets or behavior from the user. After the suspension, hashtag #MochaUsonIsOverParty became the top trending topic in the Philippines. She went live after to criticize supporters of the Liberal Party, who she claimed PAGE B7
ğ įōíľ ÀðıÃæµįPçį ʼn æIJįıÀ ØÃĉÃæîÂ ß ğÃqPç qíß߼æÃıŎįĤÀíĽØ ÕæíŊįPdíĽIJĕ 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.
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CabiCo
MISS Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach slammed the Philippine Drug enforcement Agency and some members of the media for disclosing the HIV status of one of the suspects in a buy-bust operation in a hotel in Bonifacio Global City, taguig. Wurtzbach, an HIV/AIDS awareness advocate, said it was unnecessary to bare the identities of the men and publicly shame them. “What has been done has not only traumatized the men that were involved; it has also worsened the HIV situation in the Philippines,” she said in her Instagram post tuesday, Nov. 28. the beauty queen added: “Because of what PDeA and the news outlet have done, some people are now associating drugs and immorality with being gay. It’s ridiculous.” Wurtzbach, who was assigned as the Goodwill Ambassador of the regional branch of the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS
last May, emphasized that being gay is not a crime and living with HIV is not a punishment. “Sa aking mga kababayan, ‘wag po tayo maging judgmental. Hindi immoral ang maging bakla, hindi dapat ituring na kaparusahan ang HIV. At lalong hindi ito biro na dapat pag-pyestahan at pagtawanan,” Wurtzbach said. She added: “to my beloved LGBt community, stay strong. We’ll win this.” Moreover, she urged the PDeA and the news outlets to “take steps to mend the situation.” PDeA, on tuesday, apologized for the disclosure of the suspect’s HIV status, saying “there was no intention to shame much less single out one person.” Wurtzbach was the latest personality to condemn the baring of one of the suspects HIV status joining Dinagat Islands rep. Kaka Bag-ao, Commission on Human rights, HIV awareness advocacy groups and netizens. Under republic Act 8504, or the Philippine AIDS Prevention and Control Act, a person’s HIV status is confidential except in
Pia Wurtzbach Photo from Instagram/@piawurtzbach
specific medical situations and if subject to a subpoena from a court. Violation of confidentiality is penalized by from six month to for years in prison as well as fines.
History: cardiac surgery
PAGE B5 training today. It is evident that the use of robots is the trend for most surgeries. the widespread use in the industrial arena is far ahead compared to that in surgery for obvious reasons. About 400,000 coronary artery bypass graft surgeries (CABG) are performed annually in the U. S. the past decade has seen about 30 percent decrease in CABG operations because of the minimally invasive option called coronary angioplasty and stenting. Around 700,000 coronary angioplasties and more than 1,700 robotic cardiac surgeries are done annually in the U.S. alone. TAVR: Hope for the rejected Another more recent advance in cardiac surgery is transcatheter Aortic Valve replacement (tAVr) or Implantation (tAVI), which was first performed by Cribier and associates on April 16, 2002. this is a much less invasive procedure to replace a severely diseased aortic valve (with no chest incision) among old, high-risk patients with other major illnesses, who were, before tAVr was developed, deemed inoperable and hopeless. the past half a century brought us life-saving knowledge and
discoveries in cardiovascular medicine and surgery. Since then, the mortality rate from coronary heart disease, among other illnesses, has coasted down in a steep plunge, from its record peak in the early 1960s. People today are healthier and live longer — thanks to all the dreamers, explorers, and brilliant minds in the various sectors of sciences and technologies. With the mindboggling advances in computers, it is apparent that the best is yet to come. No one discovery or invention could be awarded all the credit for improving the standard of care. Most of the new innovations have built upon, and improved on the ones before them. each technology – from computer science to medical science – has made possible the development of better, safer, and more effective diagnostic procedures and/or therapies. “Insanity and audacity” Many of the great minds in medicine who dared to espouse new concepts or to alter the “status quo” had faced ridicule and contempt of their peers who thought their “ideas and concepts” were inspired by “misinformation”, if not by “insanity
and stupid audacity.” However, as medical history shows, these pioneering physicians were vindicated, and humanity was the better for their vision and courage to risk their name and reputation to venture into the world of possibilities to help mankind. However, the potential positive impact on mankind of all these cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art evidencebased medicine and surgery are dependent on the wisdom, will, personal behavior, and lifestyle of the individual. Beneficial information and bountiful resources are only useful when taken advantage of and wisely utilized to the fullest for ourselves and our family. As always, our health is, to a significant degree, in our hands.
*** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com
ANDREA TURNS 18. Before the Thanksgiving holiday approached, Razely “Andrea” Alcala celebrated her happy 18th birthday at the beautiful La Onda Banquet Hall in Las Vegas November 20, 2017. She was born in Kuwait and is now a senior at Northwest Technical Academy and will be attending UNLV to pursue her college degree. In her joyful debut-bash, delicious Filipino-American food were served to her invited guests of classmates, friends, her loving grandma from Iloilo and relatives. Charming Andrea and proud dad Rhoderick Alcala danced gracefully to a sweet music. Her cotillion group-dance was well coordinated from the music-movie soundtrack of “La La Land”. Andrea’s mom and dad gave a Godly speech and wonderful advice during the night. The Alcala family with Andrea’s two younger sisters are active members of Families in Christ Jesus Community (FCJC), a family Life Ministry and are parishioners of St. Anthony’s of Padua Catholic Church in Las Vegas. Photos by Raoul Gatchalian
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Maritoni Fernandez: This cancer survivor is a fitspiration new fitness goal? I think what I’ve achieved in the gym through my regular MARITONI Fernandez is a workouts is strength and a body cancer survivor. She was diag- that kicks ass at my age. Hahaha! nosed with stage 2 breast cancer My current fitness goal is simply when she was 31 years old. She maintenance. To stay as fit as I am courageously fought and inspires today. To be able to maintain my others to do the same until now, figure without having to worry too almost 20 years after that health much about what I eat. episode. Do you have a favorite exTo her friends, gym mates, ercise? How do you keep your and followers on social media, workout routines challenging she is a fitness role model. We and fun? bumped into her in the gym and Hahahaha ... I don’t think I asked her and her long-time have a favorite exercise. I have personal trainer Carl Sabeniano the ones I find easier and the a few questions. ones I dread, but with regular The Philippine Star: What training, even the ones I dread makes Maritoni Fernandez a become easier and it’s mostly fitspiration? in the kind kasi when I’m doMaritoni fernandez: I think ing themna, I surprise myself I’m a fitness inspiration simply due to the fact na kaya naman because of my discipline. I’m 48 pala and I’m actually not dying years old and I’ve been an athlete while doing them — like the pretty much all my life. I’ve loved one-arm pushup Carl made me sports and I don’t think there’s do last week. I keep my routines any I haven’t at least tried. Some dynamic and challenging by I’ve ended up being very good making sure I have a trainer who at and others I’ve been awful at, challenges me each time. Carl but the secret is that I am open changes up my routine each time to trying any sport and trying to so I don’t get bored and my body enjoy it. is constantly challenged. The How often do you work out? change also keeps me engaged I work out at least twice a and I find that fun. week. I try for three times but the Do you follow a certain diet? minimum is twice. My workout I eat whatever I like so no, consists of mostly weights and I don’t have a strict diet plan cross training at Gold’s Gym. I as such. I don’t eat anything in have a great trainer who knows excess though. I just try to have me and my body, and keeps me a little bit of anything I like. That challenged. way, I don’t feel deprived which Are you active outside of the is what makes me overeat. Also gym? I drink my Herb-All IAM AmazI am very active. I live in a ing Barley Drink every day. That three-story house and so have the keeps me detoxified from all the stairs to thank for my stamina, but bad stuff we tend to feed our I play badminton and have played body. it for years. I’m not as active at it Any wellness wisdom you’d as I’d like to be anymore as my like to share? schedule is crazy. Wellness wisdom? Hahaha, What have you achieved in okay. I guess I might say that my the gym so far? What is your secret is simple. Eat what you like by Mylene
Mendoza-dayrit Philstar.com
Beating the Big C: Twenty years after she was diagnosed with breast cancer, actress Maritoni Fernandez is a fitspiration role model. Philstar.com photo
The curious case of Stephen... PAGE B6 ting their hands around his poltergeist neck and choking him, if they could, for scaring them half to death while using the rest rooms. The ghost simply wanted to call attention to his plight, to being stuck in limbo or trapped in a dimension that defies time and space. Scaring mortals was one heck of a way to do it. If you remember the movie “Ghost” there was one such paranormal being who was practically forced into mentoring Patrick Swayze’s character in the ways of poltergeists. The movie character is a disembodied soul trapped in one dimension. He inhabited a New York subway because he was pushed on the path of a train and died. He was stuck and could not cross over to the
other side because his time had not yet come. So he spends his time morosely bent on mischief scaring the living daylights out of subway commuters. Because his approximate death anniversary is supposedly December 15, Stephen C. Davis is again reaching out from the grave one more time from another century, so that he may be remembered and included in prayers just once more until he reaches final closure and eternal rest. Do pray for him if you can. If Stephen Davis’s story holds up, it is clear that to be forgotten as though one’s life didn’t matter is indeed tragic. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com
The anatomy of Mocha... PAGE B6
was responsible for reporting her account. Her account went back immediately in the afternoon. Why the hate The question is rhetorical for some people. For them, “who wouldn’t hate this piece of trash?” But is she really what they accuse her of? Or are we being too judgmental just because she dresses sexy? Well for some people it has more to do with her blog, which they find disconcerting because its main message is that President Duterte can do no wrong. As if to add fuel to the fire, her articles contain stories about the president being bullied and maligned for doing his job. She is quick to name names and call out government officials and the media for being “pro-Pnoy” or “Maka-dilaw.” The majority claims that Mocha Uson is the epitome of antiintellectualism. A netizen twitted: “Mocha Uson is the epitome of Pinoy anti-intellectualism. Regardless of what she does w/ her body, she invites Filipinos to disregard facts.” But more often than not, those who are against Uson are not necessarily assailing her validity as a political commentator, rather, are merely challenging her assertion that citizens should just accept
and support everything that the President says and does. Where’s the love coming from The irony here is that Filipinos actually love her for the same reasons she is criticized for. I mean, who doesn’t love a classic story of rising from the ashes or (to put it plainly), “a sexy star-turned-government official?” Uson is your classic “beenthere-done-that-and-look-at-menow.” Many believe that she represents the minority and they can identify with her being judged and bashed for being passionate and fighting for what — or who — she believes in. Well, I do not speak for any party but I am hoping that if she is fighting for a good cause, that she remains steadfast and succeed. And maybe, just maybe, we would see her beyond the sexy persona that she’s being condemned for. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration . To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com
but in moderation. Exercise regularly, doing something you enjoy so you’ll actually stick to it. Sleep at least six hours a day. Take naps in traffic. They do wonders for your well-being. Wellness is not a short-term thing. It’s a lifestyle choice so you have to look at it long term. Eat right. Exercise. Rest enough and always hydrate a lot! Nothing beats that. Lastly, my ultimate weapon and secret? Taking my Herb-All barley every day. It really does keep me healthy and the doctor away! For inquiries, you may text 0917-8103091. So, how does her PT Carl see her as a client? “She is a successful businesswoman, a hands-on mother of two, and a breast cancer survivor. The fact that she can balance all these roles with fitness is very inspiring. So far, she has achieved flatter abs, toned arms, shoulders, and glutes. We maintain her endurance for her everyday activities and she wants to maintain what we have achieved. She wants to improve her pull-up and be able to do more complex functional exercises,” Carl shared. “Kettlebell exercises are her favorite. I make her workouts challenging by doing functional multi-joint exercises and mixing two-three exercises in one movement. She has a strict diet of barley, salad, fruits, and fish. She is very diciplined when it comes to her food intake. She advocates that it’s very important to take care of your health, that diet is as important as working out, and that you should always find time to exercise,” Carl added.
LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEmbER 30-dEcEmbER 6, 2017
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‘ROMEO AND JULIET’
Marcos, Manglapus scions wed in Ilocos THE grandchildren of 1965 presidential candidates Ferdinand Marcos and Raul Manglapus — political rivals throughout the former’s strongman rule — were wedded in Ilocos Norte on Saturday, Nov. 25, an event the Marcos camp touted as the emergence of an “Ilocano Romeo and Juliet story.” Michael Ferdinand Manotoc, the second of three sons of Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos, married Carina Amelia Manglapus, daughter of Manglapus’ youngest son Francis, at the massive Spanish Michael Ferdinand Manotoc, son of Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos, and Carina Amelia Manglapus, baroque church of San Agustin in granddaughter of former senator and foreign secretary Raul Manglapus, pose for their wedding Paoay town. photo with the Paoay Church as backdrop. The pair officially got married in Makati City on Wednesday, Corazon Aquino. When Marcos their relationship and produced November 22, in a private family passed away in exile in 1989, a baby girl, Amelia Margarita, in Manglapus was among those who March 2016. ceremony. Following Ilocano culture, Sat- opposed the return of his remains In a statement, the Marcos urday was their “bales,” a tradi- to the country. Presidential Center said: “The Both shared an interest in cul- baby girl has drawn the two famitional celebration held when an Ilocano couple marry outside of ture and the arts, with Manglapus lies closer together, widening the having remained a composer and path for reconciliation of political their hometown. Marcos defeated Manglapus musical performer until he passed differences.” and Diosdado Macapagal in the away in 1999. Marcos instituted an “Neither Mike nor Cara, howbitterly contested 1965 presiden- age of cultural renaissance during ever, have expressed interest in enhis presidency. Both had also writ- tering politics. Cara has committed tial election. During Martial Law, Mangla- ten books exploring democracy to a singing career, even joining pus spent 14 years in exile in the and political revolution. the jazz band that [Manglapus] had Their grandchildren, Mike and founded, and sometimes performUnited States, where he founded the Movement for Free Philippines Cara, met over a decade later in ing with another contemporary and remained one of the leading 2014, at the wedding of Luis Mar- band,” it said. Filipino opposition figures along- cos Araneta, the son of Marcos’ Cara went to Ateneo de Manila side Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. second daughter Irene. Cara had like his grandfather, and graduated been a guest of Xandra Rocha, with a degree in creative writing. and Jose Diokno. Manglapus returned to the Luis’ wife. Mike is a lawyer, passing the bar Though an unlikely pair due to in 2014 after graduating from the Philippines after the 1986 ouster of Marcos, and was named For- the family history and the Marcos- UP College of Law. (ManilaTimes. eign Affairs secretary by President Manglapus feud, the two nurtured net)
B november 30-december 6, 2017 • LAS veGAS ASIAn JoUrnAL
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