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Volume 16 - No. 48 • 3 Sections – 22 Pages

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DATELINE Over 200 companies urge FCC to maintain net neutrality FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

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

DE C E MBE R 1 - 7 , 2 0 1 7

Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY

Duterte dispels fears of dictatorship amid push for Constitutional change by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

“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 WHILE emphasizing the need to in a speech during the birthday celamend the Constitution to address ebration of Philippine Amusement corruption, Philippine President Ro- and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) drigo Duterte on Tuesday, November president and lawyer Alfredo Lim. Duterte, who has been pushing for 28, allayed fears that he would bea shift to federalism, underscored the come a dictator.

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

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by MAILA

AGER Inquirer.net

ANTI-CORRUPTION SUMMIT. President Rodrigo Duterte, in his speech during the Anti-Corruption Summit 2017: ‘Breaking Chains of Corruption 2017’ at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on Tuesday, Nov. 28, urged Congress to limit the powers of key government ofďŹ cials, including the chief executive, when amending the Constitution. Duterte made the remarks in a speech during the birthday celebration of Atty. Alfredo Lim where the leader emphasized the need for a legislation that would “stop corruption.â€? MalacaĂąang photo by Simeon Celis

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

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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 FariĂąas. FariĂąas 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, FariĂąas also noted that even if the House decides to hold a special session, they “can’t compress the schedule to discuss the BBL.â€? 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

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PH Senate passes bill to exempt millions of Filipino from income tax by AUDREY

MORALLO Philstar.com

Tourism Assistant Secretary Frederick Alegre (2nd from left) being interviewed by the Asian Journal during his brief stay in San Francisco.

more tax relief to millions of Filipinos and funding the adminisMANILA — The Senate on tration’s ambitious infrastructure Tuesday, Nov. 28, approved on projects. Senate Bill 1592 sponsored third and final reading its version of the government’s tax re- by Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara, form package aimed at providing u PAGE A3

‘BRING HOME A FRIEND’

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Best way for overseas Filipinos to become tourism ambassadors by JOSEPH

Inquirer.net photo

Poe to Duterte: Don’t step down, finish your term

Controversial GOP tax bill on its way to Senate passage

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

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Sen. Grace poe

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Pres. Trump eager to sign major overhaul of U.S. tax code that reduces corporate income tax

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.

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(PDOT) represents one of the best ways for overseas Filipinos THE Bring Home A Friend to help their homeland. This (BHAF) promotion launched was emphasized by Assistant last October 14 by the Philip- Secretary Frederick Monsod pine Department of Tourism u PAGE A4 AJPress

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President Rodrigo Duterte (center) 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. MalacaĂąang photo by Rolando Mailo

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DECEMBER 1-7, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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FROM THE FRONT PAGE

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

Duterte dispels fears... PAGE A1 t 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. “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,

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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 nonsenseâ€? proposal for a coalition government. Duterte also threatened to reclassify them as “terrorists,â€? 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.â€? “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,â€? 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.’â€? â–

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From the Front Page

PH Senate passes bill to exempt... PAGE A1 t chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, is expected to exempt around 6.8 million workers from paying income taxes. Seventeen senators voted to approve the proposed law while only one cast a negative vote. “In the history of our country’s taxation, this is the biggest income tax relief that we can give to our workers,” Angara said. “We’re putting more money in the pockets of Filipinos. We want a fair income tax system which has become inequitable over the years,” he added. Under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Bill, the first P250,000 annual taxable income will be exempted from tax, plus the P82,000 tax exemption for 13th month pay and other bonuses. This translates into an approximate tax-free monthly income of P21,000. Based on data from the Bureau of Internal Revenue, almost all or

99 percent of the estimated 7.5 million individual income taxpayers will enjoy lower income tax rates. The proposed law will also triple to around 6.8 million the number of tax-exempt minimum wage earners, from the current 2 million. Under the proposed tax scheme, a government educator with the rank of Teacher I with a monthly income of P20,179 will already be exempted from paying taxes and have a monthly savings of P2,393. The proposed measure is aiming to impose additional taxes on fuel, some sugar-sweetened beverages (excluding milk and three-in-one coffee), automobiles and coal. Small business with annual sales of P3 million or below are still exempted from paying the value-added tax while the VAT threshold was increased to P3 million.

Over 200 companies urge FCC... PAGE A1 t to the power of the free and open internet”. It cites that $400 billion in online sales were made 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

House vows to pass BBL... PAGE A1 t 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 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 pronouncement, 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

The Senate’s version would also impose a 10-percent tax on cosmetic products and other body-enhancement procedures for aesthetic purposes. The new tax scheme is expected to generate up to P130 billion based on Department of Finance estimates which will be used to fuel the government’s massive infrastructure program. According to Pimentel, the proposed tax scheme is necessary to raise funds needed for the government’s long-term investments in infrastructure, education and health care. Based on the Senate-proposed tax reform package, 60 percent of the revenues to be generated will go to infrastructure programs, 27 percent will be channeled to social protection initiatives such as the unconditional cash transfer scheme to the poorest 10 million Filipino families and 13 percent will be used to fund the military’s modernization. n 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)

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 1-7, 2017

Controversial GOP tax bill... PAGE A1 t

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. “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 version 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

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bill was first introduced earlier this 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 income-earners 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)

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From the Front Page

DECEMBER 1-7, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

Best way for overseas... PAGE A1 t

Alegre during an interview with the Asian Journal recently while on a brief visit to San Francisco. Assistant Secretary Alegre, who is the official spokesperson for the Office of Public Affairs, Communications and Special Projects (OPACSP) of the PDOT, said that the BHAF promo “is actually a way for Filipinos to become, individually, tourism ambassadors of the country, especially now that the Department of Tourism and the Philippine government under President Rodrigo Duterte is pushing for tourism. We are aggressively reaching out all over the world, and Filipinos residing abroad and working abroad are definitely at the forefront of promoting the country.” According to Asst. Secretary Alegre, there is no better person than the Filipino himself or herself who could better promote the Philippines and carry their message of “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” to both foreigners and Filipinos who have not gone back home in a long while. And what makes it more exciting is that both the sponsors and the invitees get a chance to win prizes in the current BHAF cycle that runs from October 2017 to April 2018. The Bring Home A Friend program gives away prizes from sponsors like Megaworld, Toyota, Philippine Airlines and Duty Free Philippines. Sponsors have a chance to win the following: 1st prize, Megaworld’s Eastwood Le Grand condominium unit; 2nd prize, brand new Toyota Vios; 3rd prize, Duty Free gift certificate worth P200,000. Invitees, meanwhile, have a chance to win from the following: 1st prize – two roundtrip international business class tickets, two roundtrip domestic tickets to Palawan, 6day/ 5night stay at El Nido Hotel &

Resort; 2nd prize – two roundtrip premium economy class tickets, two roundtrip domestic tickets to Cebu, 5day/4night stay at Jpark Island Resort & Waterpark; 3rd prize – two roundtrip international economy class tickets, two roundtrip domestic tickets to Davao, 5day/4night stay at Pearl Farm Beach Resort. “Mas appropriate ngayon ang prizes,” remarked Asst. Sec. Alegre. “Noong araw kasi ang ipinangako eh bahay at lupa. Ngayon, ang millenials eh condo living, di ba? So, who is at the forefront of development of condominiums? Megaworld. [And the] Toyota [Vios], kung di mo man gamitin, puwede mo ipaUber. So we also had to think of prizes na ma-e-engganyo ang tao.” He continued: “Somebody commented why there was a need for prizes, and that shouldn’t it be incumbent on Filipinos to help. DOT Secretary Wanda Teo said, ‘Of course, everybody wants to help. But it is also nice to have a prize for their efforts made.’” The Assistant Secretary also revealed that since they launched the program in October, they have had an overwhelming and positive response. BHAF program rollouts have taken place overseas, including in some cities in the United States, London (United Kingdom), Sydney (Australia), Ottawa (Canada), and the Middle East, as well as locally in many provinces, most recently Davao and Cagayan de Oro. “We have actual events taking place in the Philippines… they do it in the mall,” Asst. Sec. Alegre related. “London was pretty strong. I was there for the launch of BHAF in London, which has about 300,000 to 350,000 Filipinos. Very strong ang naging dating ng BHAF doon kasi malamig din dun kaya tama rin yung strat-

egy ni Secretary Wanda na ilaunch [yung program] ng October to April, kasi ito yung winter season eh.” The Bring Home A Friend program will also be launched soon in Paris (France) and other Asian cities. It is expected to contribute to the PDOT goal of 7 million tourist arrivals in 2017, although a more significant contribution is expected for the PDOT’s 2018 goal. According to Alegre, “the advantage really we have is that there are so many Filipinos who reside abroad. It makes it easier to do a promo like this because of the on-the-ground presence of Filipinos abroad.” The Assistant Secretary also told the Asian Journal that Filipinos overseas can be confident that the Philippines will be able to take care of tourists visiting the Philippines due to the efforts of the government and what the country has experienced this past year starting with the Miss Universe Pageant in January and up to the ASEAN Summit in November. “We proudly declare to the whole world, ‘We are able to host an event like ASEAN for the whole year and have the world leaders there for a leaders’ summit.’ It just shows our capability to secure world leaders and their citizens when they are in our country,” Asst. Sec. Alegre, who sits on the ASEAN working group for DOT, said. He explained further: “The effort to become tourism ambassadors also starts with our local government units, our police, our military… it’s the overall view of the tourist that is important. And when you do a big hosting like ASEAN, suddenly the policeman who’s deployed suddenly realizes he has a role to pay to man that area where he’s in because dadaan yung tourist, in this case world leader. Airport personnel, this whole year of 2017, they’ve been exposed now to meeting ministers and delegates in the hundreds of thousands. Taxi and transport operators… we hear stories they [tourists] were able to take an Uber or a Grab and very good ang experience. When you see people reacting that way, the

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overall effect is that we become a tourism-friendly nation.” “The ones that sell souvenir items, they have seen in this past year of 2017, their products have moved so much kasi ang delegates when they come, they bring home souvenir items. The food industry had to make some adjustments. ‘Yung Halal… marami tayong neighbors sa ASEAN na ang requirement is Halal. Hotels had to hire, step up service kasi you’re not just hosting them in your hotel but you are representing the country. So when we go out we always say, ‘If everybody is conscious that the tourism boom is really happening, you will learn to clean your surroundings better, dress up better, learn a few languages, know how to treat the tourists when they arrive.’ And the ASEAN hosting was all forced upon us to learn it and embrace it, which is now happening. “Secretary Teo is very happy to note that Filipinos now approach her and tell her that, ‘We are going to help, we’re going to secure them, we’re going to clean our surroundings.’ When you hit 12 million tourists a year, you’re definitely going to cross paths with a tourists wherever you are in the country. So, this is like an instant training for the Filipinos, itong ASEAN Summit. It came at a good time because we see a lot of improvements. Dati kasi ang mga turista eh binibiktima. Ang turista dapat ay hindi biktima, ang turista dapat ay alagaan.” According to Alegre, they have gotten some feedback for future editions of the BHAF program, including one suggesting a competition amongst Philippine provinces as to who can bring the most tourists into the country. “We’re very much open to suggestions. It shows that people are very interested to help. We’re taking note of the comments so that when we continue to launch, we find ways to improve it. We don’t have any claims that this program is fool-proof so I am sure there will be adjustments in the years to come. The original Bring Home A Friend program lasted three or four years. So far, because of the digital age, people are engaging. We’re seeing

Tourism Assistant Secretary Frederick Alegre

reactions from areas which we did not see before,” the Assistant Secretary said. As for other projects in the PDOT pipeline, Asst. Sec. Alegre mentioned both the Ironman competition and a leg of the European Golf Tour taking place in 2018, the Philippines hosting the Southeast Asian Games in 2018, and a proposal for the country to host “The World’s Strongest Man” competition. This if course is in addition to its efforts in promoting the Philippines at both large-scale and small market events, which DOT Secretary Wanda Teo has directed her team to also concentrate on. According to Tourism Director Pura Molintas, who accompanied Asst. Sec. Alegre, the Philippines has become a member in some organizations that have given it access to more information and the opportunity to market the Philippines to different segments and areas. They have, she added, given the DOT the opportunity cater the message of the tourism department to the prospective event. “There are certain sections, like, for example, in the border of the U.S. and Canada, who enjoy an affinity for certain activities like outdoor and adventure. ‘Yung Northwestern Pacific like Colorado, Salt Lake, Idaho, Seattle, pati yung Vancouver, magkakasama sila. They work as a team. The presentors or the participants are usually the same

Poe to Duterte: Don’t step down...

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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),” Poe told reporters on Wednesday, Nov. 29. The senator reminded Duterte that he was elected by Filipinos

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people who go within that area because they have the same clients, and they’re all into outdoor adventure. And there is diving interest in Colorado,” Director Molintas said. “And then if you go the East, ‘yung Toronto, Canada has the same pattern if you go down to New York, it’s for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions). These areas are good for MICE marketing strategies kasi they are accessible to each other.” Director Molintas also cited their experience in travel and outdoor shows in Canada, specifically the French-speaking areas. “Making use of these existing travel shows gives us access across the different markets and going into the mainstream as well kasi we’re also trying to target the mainstream which we cannot just do on our own. In Canada, usually you’ll have these shows in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, Montreal. There are areas that are French-speaking so we also have to target the French-speaking. You need very specific French brochures and we usually get translators in the booth. Plus, you have to be ready with purely French brochures in that particular area, like Quebec and Montreal,” she revealed. With a busy calendar for the Department of Tourism, Asst. Sec. Alegre is clear on who he sees as the most valuable assets of the country, the Filipinos overseas, and he has this message: “Believe that the change is happening for best. The president has said that tourism should be very inclusive so we want every sector of society to benefit from this boom and in your own little way, wherever you are in the world, especially in the U.S., please help us promote. Bring Home A Friend is one of the ways you can, inyour way, do a promotion of the country. Of course the Department will not stop in going out and telling the message of the changes happening in the country. But it’s different when you’re here and you’re able to convince your friends that it’s a really beautiful place and ‘It’s More Fun in the Philippines’.” n 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 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

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 1-7, 2017

DATELINE PHILIPPINES

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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 Jus-

tice 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.” “According to the Chaplain, Pope Francis was able to read my letter and assured that he is praying for me,” 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 “video” that would prod him to step down from the papacy should he watch it. “Tapos ‘yung isa, ‘yung ham-

bog binigyan pa ng rosary ni Pope (Then one of them, the arrogant one, was even given a rosary by the Pope),” 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 pagkaPope 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,” PAILAW SA UP 2017. Lanterns of various shapes and sizes surrounding the Oblation statue, the iconic symbol of the University of the Duterte said. ■ Philippines, brighten up the premises of its campus in Diliman, Quezon City. PNA photo by Noel D. Veloso

Aquino denies LP hand in destabilization plot Senators warn Sereno subpoena by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

FORMER Philippine President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino on Monday, November 27, dismissed allegations that the Liberal Party (LP) is working on a 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 “yellows” are among those who wanted to unseat him. “Wala kami pina-plano na gan-

Former Pres. Benigno Aquino III Philstar.com photo

yan (We’re not planning anything like that),” Aquino told reporters after the mass held at the Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque 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 nagkicreate ng dissatsifaction (But if what has been happening were improper, promises were not kept, and words were unclear— these create dissatisfaction),” the former president added. Instead of pointing at the LP, Aquino suggested Duterte to also “look at people around him.” Lately, Duterte has been issuing warnings that he might declare a revolutionary government if things have gone “out of control” 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 also insisted that Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno is mentally stable when he assessed her qualifications for the post. “I didn’t see anything that would have made me think twice [in appointing her] during my interactions with her,” Aquino 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 psychological exam taken during her application for chief justice in 2012 after supposedly getting a score of 4—the highest of which is 1 and the lowest is 5. According to Lawyer Lorenzo Gadon, the complainant in Sereno’s impeachment case, the two psychologists who performed psychological examinations on her were supposedly terminated after she was appointed as the chief magistrate. ■

may lead to constitutional crisis by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

TWO senators on Monday, November 27, warned that the possible issuance of a subpoena, or subsequently, an arrest warrant, to Chief Justice Lourdes Sereno may result to a constitutional crisis. In a message, Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon urged the House justice committee to “exercise extreme caution,” saying that issuing a subpoena against the chief magistrate has “no basis” in the first place. Drilon, also a former Justice secretary, noted that the power of Congress to issue a subpoena and order the detention of a witness who refuses to obey the subpoena is available only in investigations in aid of legislation. “It is not available in an impeachment proceeding,” said Drilon. “In effect, a subpoena will compel Sereno in an impeachment complaint to testify against herself.” Earlier Oriental Mindoro Representative Reynaldo Umali, chairman of the House justice commit-

tee, threatened to have Sereno arrested if she continues to refuse to attend the ongoing impeachment hearings against her. But Drilon pointed out that a subpoena, in effect, “will compel Sereno in an impeachment complaint to testify against herself.” “I therefore urge Congressman Umali to exercise extreme caution in using the coercive powers of Congress to issue a subpoena against Sereno as there is no basis and will provoke a needless constitutional crisis,” Drilon said. He went on to say, “When the HOR conducts a hearing on an impeachment complaint, the hearing is not in aid of legislation. The Chief Justice is not being asked to testify as a resource person who can be subpoenaed to assist the HOR discharge its legislative function.” In a separate message, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero, also a former chairman of the Senate Committee on Justice, echoed Drilon’s sentiments. “It may result in a constitutional crisis if the CJ refuses to attend,” Escudero said. “But if I remember correctly,

the attendance/participation of the respondent in an impeachment case, or in any case for that matter, cannot be compelled to give evidence vs himself/herself even if he/she attends am referring to compulsion to attend and she refuses that may result to constitutional crisis,” he added. In a radio interview over the weekend, Umali said the House justice committee may be forced to issue a subpoena if there were matters that Sereno would need to be confirmed. “On the other hand, pag meron talagang mga bagay na dapat niyang testiguhan ay marahil ay mag-issue ang komite ng ika nga ay subpoena (if there are really things that need to be clarified by her, the Committee will be forced to issue a subpoena),” Umali told Super Radyo dzBB. He went on to say, “At siyempre, pag subpoena, coercive powers yan at hindi po sinunod ay maoobliga tayong mag-issue ng warrant (And of course, subpoenas have coercive powers and if she does not follow it then we will be obliged to issue a warrant).” ■

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DECEMBER 1-7, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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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. ■

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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Statement of former Speaker Jose de Venecia during the Fujian Normal University’s 110th anniversary FUZHOU — Former Philippine Speaker Jose de Venecia said today 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 interAsian 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 invest-

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. ■

Jose de Venecia Jr., Special Envoy for Intercultural Dialogue

ments are beginning to flow in the Philippines and major Filipino-Chinese entrepreneurs have established branches 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 requirements 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.

Apple removes games that imitate bloody war on drugs by KRISTINE JOY

Philstar.com

PATAG

MANILA — 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 reported 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. The police chief on Tuesday faced the Supreme Court as it tackled consolidated petitions challenging the constitutionality of the government’ drug war.

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PNP chief Bato Dela Rosa during the launch of “Tsip Bato: Ang Bumangga Giba!” Photos courtesy of PNP

Poe doubts passage of emergency powers bill in 2017 by PATRICIA LOURDES Philstar.com

VIRAY

MANILA — Sen. Grace Poe doubts that the pending emergency powers bill will be passed before the end of the year as it is not a priority of the administration. “But with the help of my colleagues, we can have this passed on third reading early next year,” Poe said in a statement released Tuesday, Nov. 28. The statement is in response to the pronouncement of presidential spokesperson Harry Roque that the House of Representatives had passed the traffic crisis bill when he left the lower chamber a month ago. “So it’s awaiting action in the Senate. So, really it’s the Senate’s call whether or not to enact this traffic crisis bill into law,” Roque said. Correcting Roque’s claim, Poe stressed that the traffic crisis bill in the House has not entered second reading.

On the other hand, the emergency powers bill in the Senate is on its second reading and is nearing the end of the period of interpellations. The senator stressed that they have been conducting non-stop interpellations in the proposed measure despite not being certified urgent. Being certified urgent exempts a bill from having to be read on the floor on separate days. That means it can be approved on second reading and then on third and final reading on the same day. Poe earlier appealed to President Rodrigo Duterte to certify the emergency powers bill as urgent to resolve the transportation crisis in the country. In his State of the Nation Address last July, Duterte made no mention of having emergency powers to address the traffic crisis in the country. The president merely directed the MMDA and LGUs of Metro Manila and Metro Cebu to ensure the free flow of traffic.

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BUSINESSJ& COMMUNITY ournal

For immigrants’ contribution to America: a thank you! 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 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

Your Immigration Solution Reeves MilleR Zhang & DaZa aPlC feast after a successful growing season. Sqauanto, a Native American who served as an interpreter for the English-speaking colony had taught the Pilgrims

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 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!

“ As the late Senator Ted Kennedy said, ‘Immigration is the story of American History.’” 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

*** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Pasadena, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Manila and China. 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)

Filipinos affected in Uber data hack by Ma. Lisbet

K. esMaeL

ManilaTimes.net

FILIPINO drivers and riders were not spared by a massive data breach at ride-hailing firm Uber, the National Privacy Commission (NPC) said on Tuesday, Nov. 28. “Uber wrote to us in compliance with their commitment to provide more detailed information about their data breach of October 2016,” NPC Commissioner Raymund Enriquez Liboro said in a statement. Liboro said Uber confirmed that personal information, such as “names, email-addresses and mobile phone numbers” of 57

million users around the world were compromised as well as the names and licenses of around 600,000 partner drivers in the US. “Unfortunately, Uber failed to provide the level of detail that we expect from personal information controllers about data breach notifications, such as the actual number of Filipinos affected, and the scope of their exposure,” he added. The transport company did declare that “Filipino data subjects are affected, but there is no indication that any Filipino driver’s licenses were downloaded” Uber said that two persons outside the company had accessed user data stored in third-

party cloud servers. Two employees who had led the response to the hack are also “no longer with Uber”. “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,” the company stressed, adding that cybersecurity measures had been strengthened in response to the hack. Noting the Uber had concealed the data breach, Libor said this “bears serious consequences under the Data Privacy Act of 2012.”

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Government readies estate tax amnesty in 2018 by Mary

Grace Philstar.com

Padin

THE Duterte administration is planning to roll out next year its amnesty program for individuals and corporations with unsettled estate tax liabilities, according to the Department of Finance (DOF). In an interview, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez confirmed to reporters the government is considering to implement its tax amnesty program in 2018, starting with estate taxes. This is in conformity with Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno’s earlier statement that the govern-

In an interview, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez confirmed to reporters the government is considering to implement its tax amnesty program in 2018, starting with estate taxes. DOF/Released, File u PAGE CJ3

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Community Journal

DECEMBER 1-7, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

California divorce frequently asked questions

The CTV Files Atty. LiLLi B. BAcuLi I JUST moved to California last month, and I’d like to file for divorce. Can I file now? To file for divorce in the State of California, the person filing (called the “Petitioner”) must first meet the jurisdictional requirements: (i) residence in the state of California from the past 6 months; and (ii) residence in the county where that person is filing (e.g., San Diego County) for the past 3 months. Residence – put simply, where the Petitioner lives – also determines which courthouse the Petition for Divorce should be filed. “What if my husband/wife does not want to sign the divorce?” or “My husband/wife does not want to sign the divorce papers, what can I do.” California is a no-fault divorce state. A party filing for divorce does not need the consent of the other in order to file a Petition for Dissolution (Divorce) or, in some instances, to get a judgment of

divorce. What is “Service of Process?” Can I just mail the divorce papers to my ex-spouse? Service of Process is a crucial procedural step in the divorce proceedings, because the law reserves for the ex-spouse (called the “Respondent”) the right to respond and appear in court, if s/he wants to. In proceeding in an action for divorce, there are procedural requirements dictated by law that must be followed to ensure that the other party has notice of the action (that is, that s/he is being brought to court for an action of divorce) and that s/he is given time to respond. However, there is no requirement for the other party to respond. There is no requirement that s/he sign any document at all. All that needs to happen is that s/he is properly served with process according to the rules. Note that “proper service” is defined in the Family Code and must be followed, and the validity of any Judgment for

Divorce rests on the proper service of the Respondent. “What? I have to share my retirement earnings? This is mine, I worked hard for it!” California is a community property state and so once you get married, all property acquired during marriage is community property. Separate property are “all property acquired before marriage; all gifts, bequests, devise, or descents. All property acquired or exchanged with traceable separate property; and all property acquired after separation.” However, if anything out of the community property is used towards separate property, the community might have a claim on part(s) of separate property. “I don’t want to pay spousal support.” Whether you like it or not, spousal support will be ordered if the other party makes a request, and the court deems that the circumstances call for it. Some of the factors that the

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Health@Heart PhiLiP S. chuA, MD, FAcS, FPcS 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 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 vir-

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 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

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History: cardiac surgery

(Part 2 - conclusion) tually in every heart attack there jor illnesses, who were, before was a clot blocking the artery. TAVR was developed, deemed This was a revolutionary change inoperable and hopeless. in cardiology which has led to the The past half a century brought modern clot-dissolving therapy us life-saving knowledge and disto prevent a full-blown heart at- coveries in cardiovascular meditack and save heart muscles and cine and surgery. Since then, save lives. This has dramatically the mortality rate from coronary improved survival from heart at- heart disease, among other illtack. nesses, has coasted down in a Angioplasty opens new hori- steep plunge, from its record zons peak in the early 1960s. People In 1977, the first angioplasty today are healthier and live lonwas performed by Andreas Gru- ger — thanks to all the dreamers, entzig, M.D., of Zurich, Switzer- explorers, and brilliant minds in land, to “open up” a tight block- the various sectors of sciences age in a coronary artery. This and technologies. With the mindwas improved on by the inven- boggling advances in computers, tion of “stent” (a tiny mesh tube it is apparent that the best is yet of coiled spring, like car shock to come. absorbers) to keep the angioNo one discovery or invention plastied artery from re-collaps- could be awarded all the credit ing and re-closing. The stainless for improving the standard of steel stents were then improved care. Most of the new innovaon with the introduction of drug- tions have built upon, and imcoated stents that keep the an- proved on the ones before them. gioplastied artery patent (open) Each technology – from commuch longer. puter science to medical science Robotic heart surgery – has made possible the developIn May 1998, the first coronary ment of better, safer, and more bypass using the da Vinci robot effective diagnostic procedures was performed with a mini-chest and/or therapies. incision. A year later, the first “Insanity and audacity” totally endoscopic da Vinci roMany of the great minds in botic coronary bypass surgery medicine who dared to espouse was accomplished with no chest new concepts or to alter the incision, except for small holes, “status quo” had faced ridicule through which instruments were and contempt of their peers who inserted and manipulated. With thought their “ideas and conthe more sophisticated da Vinci cepts” were inspired by “misrobots today, cardiac surgery information”, if not by “insanity and other specialty surgeries are and stupid audacity.” However, routinely performed. as medical history shows, these There are at least 21 industrial pioneering physicians were vinrobotic firms and 11 surgical ro- dicated, and humanity was the botic companies in the United better for their vision and courStates. Robotic surgery is a stan- age to risk their name and repudard part of the surgical residen- tation to venture into the world of cy training today. It is evident possibilities to help mankind. that the use of robots is the trend However, the potential positive for most surgeries. The wide- impact on mankind of all these spread use in the industrial arena cutting-edge technology and is far ahead compared to that in state-of-the-art evidence-based surgery for obvious reasons. medicine and surgery are depenAbout 400,000 coronary artery dent on the wisdom, will, personbypass graft surgeries (CABG) al behavior, and lifestyle of the are performed annually in the individual. Beneficial information U. S. The past decade has seen and bountiful resources are only about 30 percent decrease in useful when taken advantage of CABG operations because of the and wisely utilized to the fullest minimally invasive option called for ourselves and our family. coronary angioplasty and stentAs always, our health is, to a ing. Around 700,000 coronary significant degree, in our hands. angioplasties and more than *** 1,700 robotic cardiac surgeries Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac are done annually in the U.S. Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana alone. and chairman of cardiac surgery from TAVR: Hope for the rejected 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Another more recent advance Hospital, where he holds the title of in cardiac surgery is Transcath- Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based eter Aortic Valve Replacement in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of (TAVR) or Implantation (TAVI), the American College of Surgeons, the which was first performed by Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Cribier and associates on April Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical 16, 2002. This is a much less in- Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino vasive procedure to replace a se- United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) verely diseased aortic valve (with humanitarian foundation in the United no chest incision) among old, States. For more data, visit philipSchua. high-risk patients with other ma- com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

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...” Part 2 of 2 beyond the scope of reason and cold murder case unless one is known science to explain and a tenacious private investigathings that are far beyond human tor with the mixed pedigree of a intelligence to comprehend fully. bloodhound and a bulldog. One Quite plainly, there are things thing that comes across clearly, in this world that cannot be de- at least to me, is that the ghost of fined, completely understood Stephen C. Davis, whether real or and pegged in a nice, neat box. conjured by hypnotic suggestion, The curious case of this mur- didn’t seem to be obsessed with dered American soldier reaching vengeance or justice although he out from the grave is probably did seem knowledgeable about one of them. his killer’s whereabouts. UnAs a postcript decades later, derneath the bone-chilling polLacaba updated the account by tergeist tactics his restless soul verifying the information about employed to reach out from beStephen Davies with the Ameri- yond the grave, he was no more can Battle Monuments Com- than a lonely soul whose young mission (http: //www.abmc. life was cut down so suddenly gov/search/detailwwnew.php). and so tragically one dark moonSomething may have been lost in less night. Stuck in a nebulous, the spelling and translation dur- nether world between the living ing the sessions, for there were and the world beyond, nothing two entries for Stephen Davis seemed to be as important to (there was no e though in the this murdered American soldier Davis) — one was Stephen E. as being remembered. It didn’t Davis, a US Air Force officer who matter even if the remembrance was killed in Hawaii and whose is by a motley crew of curious, remains were never recovered total strangers. and a Stephen C. Davis. The latWith a sigh of relief over the ter was listed as Seaman, First realization that the spirit was Class, U.S. Navy, with Service # neither malevolent nor mali3759920 and that he had entered cious, Stephen C. Davis would the service in California. The probably have to deal with an approximate date of death was incensed group of total strangers December 15, 1945 in Manila, who would gladly take turns putPhilippines. ting their hands around his polDavis earned a Purple Heart tergeist neck and choking him, Award posthumously. Just like if they could, for scaring them the other Davis in Hawaii, there half to death while using the rest were no remains recovered. The rooms. name of Stephen C. Davis is inThe ghost simply wanted to scribed in one of the hemicycles call attention to his plight, to beon the west side in the American ing stuck in limbo or trapped in Cemetery near Forbes Park and a dimension that defies time and what used to be Fort Bonifacio, space. Scaring mortals was one a military camp sold to private heck of a way to do it. real estate developers during the If you remember the movie nineteen nineties and now known “Ghost” there was one such as The Fort in Global City. paranormal being who was pracThere is absolutely no way to tically forced into mentoring Patverify every minute detail of this u PAGE CJ3

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Immigration Corner ATTY. MICHAEL GURFINKEL, ESQ MANY Filipinos consult with me saying they are sad, lonely, and depressed over their immigration situation, and just want to give up, and go back to the Philippines. Many of them came to the U.S. years ago, leaving behind a spouse and small children. Because of their immigration situation, they are unable to travel back to the Philippines to visit their loved ones, or to even pray at the grave of a loved one who had passed away while they were trapped in the U.S.. Instead, they watch their children grow up via Facetime or Skype, with conversations starting with “Mommy (or daddy), I miss you so much, when will I see you again?” Or they think of the funerals of loved ones they missed because they could not leave the U.S. Some of these people work two or more jobs and dutifully send money back home to their family, to ensure their care and support. They feel emptiness and loneliness, and they feel there’s no hope in sight. They want to give up and go back to the Philippines to be with their family. While I fully understand the torment these people are going through, I urge them not to give up, as there may be changes in law that could benefit them. Also, they should think about what life would be like if they did give up and go home: Once at home, everyone will of course hug and cry the entire night, and reminisce on how much has changed, and how

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I’m tired and just want to Government readies estate tax... give up and go back home! PAGE CJ1 t

much everyone has missed each other over the years. The person could not be happier. It is like a dream come true. When they wake up the following morning, they’re still in a blissful dream, being reunited once again with their family. They want to get together with their family and hug and cry some more. But the family is already used to being in the Philippines, so their family has already cried themselves out the previous night, and life is back to normal for them. Eventually, because the bills still need to be paid, the family may start reminding the person that they now need to find work elsewhere as soon as possible because, after all, the person had been sending money all these years for rice, food, clothing, and education of their children. Those expenses still exist. But there may be no work available in the Philippines. And so, they may find themselves going off to Dubai, Qatar, K.S.A., or Europe, as an overseas worker, so they can find new work, to keep the steady stream of remittance to their family. But they are again separated from their family, and instead of being in the U.S., they are now in some other foreign country. In addition, by leaving the U.S., they may now be barred from returning for at least 10 years, because of the 3\10 year bar. My point is that I know there are so many Filipinos in the U.S. who are frustrated, anxious, and lonely for their family, and are just about to give up hope and

go back. But you have to think about what life would be like two weeks after you return, when all the hugging and crying are over. In addition, maybe there will be changes in US immigration law that could benefit you. Or perhaps, there could be a way NOW by which you could legalize your status, but you may not be aware of the particular immigration benefit to which you may be entitled. Before giving up and going back, at least seek the advice of an attorney who can evaluate your situation, and see if there are options available to you, or you can pray harder for changes in law after the election. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and re-enactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw and Twitter @GurfinkelLaw Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES

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Erratum: In the Asian Journal’s November 17 issue, Atty. Gurfinkel’s column entitled “December 2017 Priority Dates,” under the Labor Certification category for Other Workers, we erroneously printed the Visa Issuance Date as January 15, 2014. However, the CORRECT date should be JANUARY 15, 2016. We apologize for any confusion or inconvenience this error may have caused.

ment is ready to implement a tax amnesty program after proving it is serious in going after tax evaders. “We agree with him (Diokno). We haven’t discussed it yet. We think that the tax amnesty offer should be offered most likely next year,” Dominguez said. He said the DOF would start early next year, laying out the terms for the tax amnesty program. According to the finance chief, the estate tax amnesty program would be legislated under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act (TRAIN), which is expected to be approved by Congress before the end of the year. Finance Undersecretary An-

tonette Tionko, however, conceded that for other types of tax amnesty to be rolled out, the DOF would need a separate legislation from Congress. Nevertheless, Tionko said the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) may also explore other administrative means to ease the burden of taxpayers with unsettled liabilities. “General amnesty needs legislation, but there are ways to do it administratively,” she said. Tionko and Dominguez said some possible measures include the elimination of penalties or interest rates, after noting that some taxpayers cannot pay penalties as the interest rate can go as high as 20 percent per an-

num. Meanwhile, the finance chief said the DOF is also studying other countries’ models to determine how the government can ease its own Bank Secrecy Law for cases of fraud, tax evasion and money laundering. Earlier, Diokno said the Duterte administration is ready to implement a tax amnesty program as it has proven it is capable of running after tax evaders, such as in the cases of Mighty Corp., Sunvar Realty Development Corp. and Philippine Airlines. He said the program would help generate more funds for the government, particularly for the rehabilitation of Marawi City. ■

California divorce frequently... PAGE CJ2 t Court will look at to determine whether there is basis for support, and if so, in what amount, are – length of marriage, age of parties, if there are minor children in the marriage, income of both parties. “Why do I need an attorney?” You don’t need an attorney. There is no requirement that you must have an attorney. However, in cases involving issues such as domestic violence, custody disputes, child support, spousal support, and division of community property assets it would be wise to seek advice from a licensed and experienced attorney so as not to waste your time

and money, not to mention the court’s time and resources, especially when you have to keep going back to court because of incomplete or missing documents that could have been addressed from the very beginning by a competent and knowledgeable attorney. Not all divorce cases are the same. It is important to be properly informed about your rights and responsibilities under California law in divorce proceedings. The wrong advice or information can and will hurt you, and waste your time and money. Consult a licensed and experienced family law attorney to help you navigate through your divorce.

Calendar of Events across

*** Atty. Lilli Berbano Baculi is an associate attorney with Chua Tinsay & Vega, A Professional Legal Corporation (CTV) - a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento and Philippines. The information presented in this article is for general information only and is not, nor intended to be, formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorney-client relationship. Call or e-mail CTV for an in-person or phone consultation to discuss your particular situation and/or how their services may be retained at (619) 955-6277; (415) 4958088; (916) 449-3923; lbaculi@ctvattys. com. For general information visit www. chuatinsayvega.com. (Advertising Supplement)

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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.

D EC E M B E R 2

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

THE UPS AND DOWNS, AND THE BITTERSWEET ENDING OF A SPECIAL CASE ABOUT A SPECIAL SON WHO HAD AUTISM ON THIS SUNDAY’S ‘CITIZEN PINOY’! When Norma immigrated to the U.S., she had to leave behind their autistic son, Michael because he aged out. The separation broke her heart. Norma and husband Joy (left) went to three other attorneys who were unable to deliver results, until they decided to retain leading U.S. immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel, who was finally able to bring Michael to the U.S., to be reunited with his parents. Watch the heartfelt journey of Michael and his family that led to a pleasant reunion, but with a painful ending, on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday at 6:15 p.m. (PST) on TFC. (Advertising supplement)

The curious case of Stephen... PAGE CJ2 t

rick 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

Filipinos affected in Uber...

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“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,” he said.

With the breach still being investigated, Liboro said the NPC was cooperating with data privacy authorities from Australia and the United States. “We are not here to merely

prosecute offenses against data privacy, but to work with all stakeholders to ensure that we keep moving toward a safer data ecosystem where data flows freely and securely,” he said. ■

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.

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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More Chinese tourists arriving via cruise ships by Catherine

talavera Philstar.com

THE efforts of the Department of Tourism (DOT) to strengthen both the Chinese tourist market and cruise tourism are bearing fruit as more Chinese nationals are expected to arrive on cruise ships toward the end of the year. The DOT said the MS World Dream docked for the second time this month at Pier 15, South Harbor in Manila on Tuesday, Nov. 28, which carried approximately 2,153 passengers. It said most of the passengers aboard the cruise ship are Chinese nationals. Tourism Undersecretary Rolando Canizal earlier said more Chinese tourists are projected to visit the country before the end of the year, especially with the arrival of about five cruise vessels from China carrying about 2,000 to 3,000 passengers on average. “We’re expecting more Chinese tourists especially for the holidays, and there are a of Chinese airlines also that are looking into increasing charter operations to some of our destinations,”Canizal said. For this year, the Philippines is expecting Chinese arrivals to hit the one million mark, driven by the improved diplomatic relations between the two countries and as well as the approval of the Visa Upon Arrival (VUA) policy for Chinese nationals. In the first eight months of the year, Chinese nationals comprised a total of 641,412 arrivals, making

it the third largest source market. Last week, the MS World Dream made its first Manila port call, carrying over 2,600 passengers. For this year, the Philippines is projecting the arrival of 122,000 cruise passengers as 140 cruise calls are expected by the end of the year, a 94 percent increase from the 72 cruise calls registered last year. Based on data from the DOT, international cruise calls to the Philippines have been growing at an average rate of 27.8 percent over the past years, with 56 calls in 2014, 70 calls in 2015 and 72 calls in 2016. “As we broaden our cruise tourism portfolio with more exciting shore excursions and plans for our very own dedicated cruise port terminal, we continue to welcome more and more cruise passengers and bigger cruise ships for the years to come,” Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo said. The 18-deck World Dream ship, designed for the Asian cruise market, will include port calls to Manila and Boracay and is home ported at Hong Kong. World Dream was only built in 2016 by Meyer Werft in Germany and will grace the country’s seaports from Nov. 21, 2017 to March 28, 2018. “With the introduction of World Dream, Dream Cruises is now a fleet and with strong destination partners such as Manila. Dream Cruises is proud to be an exciting part of Genting Cruise lines’ leadership role in promoting the growing tourism and re-

lated industries throughout Asia and specifically the Philippines,” World Dream president Thatcher Brown said. Cruise tourism is one of the products the DOT is eyeing to develop, as it eyes to make the country as a major cruise hub in the region. “We welcome World Dream to the Philippine shores, the largest cruise ship for the year, as we continue to position the country as one of the major cruise hubs in Asia. This milestone is another sign of the confidence and trust from cruise lines especially Genting-Star Cruises,” Teo added. Last October, the DOT along with the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) formally signed a memorandum of agreement for the formulation of a feasibility study and master plan for the development and operation of a cruise port in Manila. With the implementation of the National Cruise Development Strategy (NCTDS),TIEZA has been designated by the DOT as the lead agency responsible in the construction an the development of the cruise-dedicated port in Manila and in other priority ports in the country to harness the potential of cruise tourism as an emerging tourism product and vital engine for tourism growth. TIEZA chief operating officer Pocholo Paragas said the Philippines may see the operation of its first cruise port before the end of the Duterte administration. n

Foreign business groups welcome move to ease foreign restrictions by riChmond

merCurio Philstar.com

FOREIGN business leaders are elated with President Rodrigo Duterte’s recent call to ease restrictions on investment areas with limited foreign participation, saying such a move will lead to more investments and spur faster economic growth. Leaders of the American, European, Korean, and Canadian business chambers in the Philippines told The STAR that Duterte’s directive to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board to relax restrictions on eight investment areas is a step towards the right direction for the country. “The president’s memorandum order is unprecedented in its scope and goal to make the economy more competitive and more open to foreign investment, which is much needed to help meet the seven to eight percent GDP growth target,” said John Forbes, senior advisor of the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines. “The Canadian Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines strongly supports the 10-point economic agenda of the Duterte administration. In this context, we are very pleased with Thursday’s (Nov. 23) announcement by the president instructing departments and agencies to remove restrictions on foreign investment administratively where

Leaders of the American, European, Korean, and Canadian business chambers in the Philippines told The STAR that Duterte’s directive to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board to relax restrictions on eight investment areas is a step towards the right direction for the country. File photo by Philstar

this is possible (such as in the construction industry) and to support legislative amendments in cases where this is required,” Julian Payne, the group’s president, said separately. Korean Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines president Ho Ik Lee said the memorandum order has already been circulated to all its members. European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines president Guenter Taus, for his part, said easing foreign ownership limits in the country is a major boost to the local economy and would make it easier for European firms to market the Philippines. “We as a chamber have been working for decades to ease restrictions on foreign direct participation in all aspects of business in order to level the playing field and give better and better priced services and goods to the

Filipino people. This is indeed a most welcome news,” Taus said. The investment areas covered by Duterte’s order are private recruitment, practice of particular professions, contracts for the construction and repair of locally-funded public works, public services except activities and systems that are recognized as public utilities, culture, production, milling, processing, and trading, teaching at higher education levels, retail trade enterprises, and domestic market enterprises. CanCham’s Payne said easing or lifting of the restrictions would not be a zero-sum game with risk of local companies being crowded out. AmCham’s Forbes urged the responsible agencies and Congress to follow the lead of the chief executive to attract more investments and boost employment. n

Supermarkets to raise prices to offset higher labor costs by riChmond

merCurio Philstar.com

SUPERMARKET owners are planning to raise prices to offset the impact of rising labor costs. The planned price increase will come alongside some manufacturers’ decision to jack up prices of their products due to the depreciation of the peso against the dollar, higher fuel prices and the surge in prices of raw materials. “With the increase in labor cost, even though suppliers don’t increase their prices, we will increase our margins even a little,” Philippine Amalgamated Supermarkets Association president Steven Cua said. “How do we cover for the wage increase. We can’t feed them peanuts, right? So expect a little increase in prices,” Cua added. Minimum wage earners in the private sector in Metro Manila started receiving an additional P21 per day in their basic wage since last Oct. 5 following the approval of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-National Capital

EMPLOYMENT

Region of Wage Order NCR-21 which prescribed new wage levels for all minimum wage earners

EMPLOYMENT

and set the minimum wage for the non-agricultural workers to P512 from P491. With the increase in prices of some noche buena items and basic commodities starting this month, Cua said consumers can soften the effect by buying the right products and brands. “I do have products which have increased 10 to 15 percent and that’s big. But if you don’t know what to buy naturally you will really spend more than the usual,” he said. “However, the increase File photo by Philstar was not across all products as it included only particular brands and particular sizes. That’s good because since it’s

not all at the same time, consumers would have a choice,” Cua said. Following a National Price Coordinating Council Meeting last Tuesday, Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said a number of manufacturers of noche buena items and basic commodities have reported their respective price increases. Despite the increase, Lopez said prices of these products remain below the suggested retail prices (SRP). “There were an increase for noche buena products. For each category there are one or two brands that increased prices out of six or eight,” he said, citing products such as fruit cocktail, cheese, pasta, and spaghetti sauce. Several brands of sardines, canned meat, and milk have likewise reported price hikes, but mostly those in the premium segment. Lopez said because of factors like the depreciation of peso against the dollar, higher fuel prices, and the surge in prices of raw materials, some manufacturers were unable to retain their existing prices. n

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Disaster relief for property taxes by Carmen Chu San Francisco Assesor

AS we come into the holiday season, it is time to reflect on the major events happened this year, which most certainly includes the North Bay Fires. As communities impacted begin the difficult process of recovery, it is important to know that property tax relief programs are available for areas experiencing disaster. As one of your elected Assessors in the state of California, I would like to share several tax relief efforts that will be helpful for you to know. Under California’s property tax laws, property owners who have suffered a calamity may qualify for immediate property tax relief in the form of reduced assessments. In other words, if your property was damaged in a calamity such as fire, flood, or earthquake, you may receive temporary property tax deduction by applying for disaster re-

lief. It is important to remember that the application for disaster relief must be filed within 12 months of the calamity and damage to the property must be at least $10,000. After receiving the application, the local County Assessor’s office will review the case and assign a temporary value to the property reflecting the damage reported. Property owners should apply disaster relief through their County Assessor’s office. In San Francisco, our disaster relief form is available in multiple languages, including Filipino, Spanish and Chinese. You can find them at http://sfassessor.org/taxsavings/tax-relief/disaster-relief In addition to the disaster relief outlined above, if the property is substantially damaged or completely destroyed in a Governor declared disaster or state of emergency, owners may be eligible for a property tax installment deferral, allowing owners more

time to manage their finances. However, some owners may decide to move away or rebuild their new homes in another neighborhood or another county, they may be able to transfer their Prop 13 base year value to a similar replacement property. In other words, they can transfer their existing assessed value to a new replacement home without reassessment to market value, so they can continue to pay at the same level as if they have never moved. To learn more on property tax deferrals and base year transfers, please contact your local County Assessor. Moreover, public marriage licenses are typically recorded at the County Recorder’s office. Couples who were married in San Francisco can obtain certified copies of their marriage licenses by visiting our office. Please contact us at www. sfassessor.org or call 415-7012311. n

Governor Brown to host 86th annual Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony SACRAMENTO – California Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. and First Lady Anne Gust Brown will host the 86th Annual Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Thursday, December 7, on the West Steps of the State Capitol at 5 p.m. This year’s tree is a 65foot-tall white fir from the Latour Demonstration State Forest located near Redding in Shasta County, the sixth Capitol Christmas tree to come from a state forest managed by CAL FIRE on behalf of the public. The tree is decorated with over 900 hand-crafted ornaments made by children and adults with developmental disabilities who receive services and support from the state’s development centers and 21 nonprofit regional centers. The Governor and First Lady will light the Capitol Christmas tree with 7-year-old Sofia Garcia of Los Angeles. It will be illuminated by approximately 10,000 ultra-low wattage LED lights. Kitty O’Neal of KFBK Radio

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 1-7, 2017

CJ

Things to think about before applying for disability benefits SOCIAL Security is with you throughout life’s journey. We’re here for you if the unexpected happens. We are there for you when you finally stop working as well. We provide vital financial support to tens of millions of american workers, primarily through retirement benefits. But we’re also there for you if the unexpected happens and a serious medical condition stops you from working and being able to support yourself and your family. In such cases, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits, which replace a portion of lost income when a worker becomes seriously disabled. Here are three of the key factors we use to determine if you may qualify for social security disability benefits: • You must have a lasting medical condition so severe that it prevents you from doing the work that you did in the past or adjusting to other types of work; • Your physical or mental impairment(s) must have lasted or be expected to last at least a year or result in death; and • You must have worked long enough — and recently enough — in jobs covered by Social Security. To learn more about disability benefits, please visit www.socialsecurity.gov/disability. You become eligible for social security benefits

by working and paying fica taxes, which translate into Social Security “credits.” How many credits you need to receive disability benefits depends on how old you are when you become disabled. For example, if you become disabled at age 31 or older, you generally must have earned at least 20 credits in the 10 years immediately before you became disabled. Twenty credits are equal to five years of substantial earnings. Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits. To see how many credits you have earned and to estimate future benefits, please log in to or create your my Social Security online account at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount. Those who have not worked enough to qualify for Social Security benefits may be eligible for help through our Supplemental Security Income program, or “SSI.” SSI provides financial assistance to disabled children and adults, as well as the aged and blind people, who have little or no income or resources. Learn more about ssi at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi. Social Security helps you and millions of other americans secure today and tomorrow by providing important financial benefits, information, and planning tools. Learn more at www.socialsecurity. gov. (Eric Phillips /Social Security Public Affairs specialist in Sacramento, CA) n

Hayward water use climbing

AFTER years of drought-inspired saving, water use is increasing in the Bay Area. In This event is open to the pub- Hayward, it is running about 16 will emcee the ceremony, which will also feature performances lic. Members of the public are percent above a year ago at this by the California Army National asked to RSVP here and are en- time. Guard’s DET 1, 40th Infantry Di- couraged to bring non-perishThe uptick started in the warmvision Band, Brass Quintet, the able food items to donate to the er-than-usual summer, and folGovernor’s Own; students from Sacramento Food Bank. lowing Gov. Jerry Brown lifting Parking for satellite trucks the drought state of emergency. the Oakland Military Institute and Oakland School for the Arts; will be available on the east side The change points to a relaxMariachi Puente; and St. Paul’s of 10th Street between L and N ation of conservation practices Streets. n Baptist Church Choir. citywide, and is reflected in high-

er draws on the San Francisco Hetch Hetchy system, the main supplier of water to Hayward. For Hayward utility customers, higher water use is showing up in higher bi-monthly water and sewer bills. In parallel, effective Oct. 1, sewer rates and watermeter service fees have both increased. For the average customer, the rate increase by itself should be less than 4 percent. The city and state are main-

taining and expanding a number of conservation programs to help Hayward utility customers save water and, along the way, reduce water and sewer bills. You can learn about waterconservation rebates, free water conservation devices for the home, water-efficient landscaping, and other water- and moneysaving tactics and tips by visiting the City of Hayward website at www.hayward-ca.gov. n

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DECEMBER 1-7, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - December 1, 2017

SF Parol lantern FeStival and Parade:

Remembering Filipino Christmas traditions by Malou liwanag-Bledsoe/aJPress It’s a few weeks before Christmas and the holiday air is alive with music, decoration and reminders of the season. However, for most Filipinos in the United states, it brings back nostalgic memories of Christmas past. this year’s Parol Lantern Festival and Parade — which is held annually at the hear of soMa Pilipinas in san Francisco — celebrates this holiday with the theme “Let tradition be our light.” the theme seeks to impart that from its own experience as an immigrant community that tradition has effectively served and continues to be the light of the Filipino community outside of their original homeland. One of the most awaited holiday celebrations in san Francisco, it is an event when Filipino culture can be prominently and distinctly showcased. since its inception in 2003, the Parol Festival has highlighted the rich tradition of parol making, the festival of lights ritual and the taste of Filipino Christmas in the city. the annual event is among the many cultural assets and community celebrations that propelled the Board of

supervisors and the City to unanimously adopt a resolution in 2016 that establishes soMa Pilipinas as Filipino Cultural Heritage District. Just last July, the California Arts Council designated soMa Pilipinas as among the 14 districts that will serve as California’s inaugural state-designated Cultural Districts, highlighting thriving cultural diversity and unique artistic identities within local communities across California. For many decades soMa Pilipinas has and continues to serve as a touchstone for Filipinos seeking to connect with their cultural heritage. As a Filipino cultural heritage district, it celebrates and preserves the community, individual and family narratives, common cultural memory, and historical continuity that gives a sense of bounded solidarity with the country of origin as an immigrant community in the Filipino diaspora, and with san Francisco and the U.s. as an emerging and thriving community. Each year, the soMa community showcases the quintessential parol lanterns and the taste of traditional Filipino Christmas.

the parol festival is scheduled every second saturday of December, the saturday before Simbang Gabi or Misa de Gallo, a nine-day early morning at st. Patrick’s Church before Christmas. the main event is held on saturday, December 9, and it starts in Yerba Buena Gardens at 5 p.m. and moves to st. Patrick’s Church. Parol strollers with their brightly-lit contingent lanterns gather for a lively parade and holiday festival which includes performances, community presentations and the annual tala Awards for the best parol lanterns. A Parol Gallery will also be mounted at Jessie square to showcase the beautiful lanterns from the City of san Fernando Pampanga, the giant parol capital of the Philippines, the commissioned lantern sculptures of Lynn Luzano Bryant and Gene Apellido, and many locally-made lanterns. An added feature of the Parol Festival is a food-tasting program held at the social Hall of st. Patrick’s Church from 3 to 5 p.m. Dubbed as taste of Filipino Christmas (Patikim ng Pagkain Pampasko), it aims to share and promote the rich culinary tradition and delicacies associated with holiday celebration. Among the food to be featured are tsamporado with danggit flakes, arroz caldo, cassava cake, suman, bibingka, tibuk-tibuk, tamales, and a puto-bumbong cooking demonstration. there will be performances by ACPA Rondalla, Autonomus Region, and Kulintronica. the parol festival is presented by the Filipino American Development Foundation and KulArts in partnership with the

PH takes pride in Rachel Peters’ Top 10 finish by arlo

Custodio ManilaTimes.net

Miss Universe 2017 Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters

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 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

Miss Universe Philippines 2017 Rachel Peters

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

The Top 5 finalists: Miss Colombia, Miss Jamaica, Miss Thailand, Miss Venezuela and Miss South Africa.

Yerba Buena Gardens Festival, MJM Management, and st. Patrick’s Parish, and supported in part by Grants for the Arts, California Arts Council, Yerba Buena Community Benefit District and soMa Pilipinas. For more information, please contact Parol Festival at (415) 348-8042, parolsf@gmail. com or visit www.bayanihancc. org/parol-festival.html and www.kularts.org/kularts-present/parol-festival/. (AJPress) *Many thanks to MC Canlas for his assistance in this feature.

Paolo Ballesteros continues his transformation by tessa

MauriCioa-arriola ManilaTimes.net

which he shares lead billing with Manalo and Bayola [the tHERE is no one quite like movie opened on November Paolo Ballesteros in showbiz 22], and the showing of “Barbi today. the The Times confiD’ Wonder Beki.” dently says so because while Merely a week apart, The most other actors have an Times asked Paolo, “Aren’t you idol whose career path they worried about the ‘sawa factor’ strive to follow—say the young in showbiz? How people go off Joshua Garcia who’s been something they see too often?” dubbed as the next John Lloyd Paolo was quick with punchCruz—Paolo is in a league of line: “Wala kasi akong magagahis own, both as a comedic and wa… kahit anong gawin ko, ang dramatic actor. ganda ko pa rin sa transformaHow so? He banks on his tions ko!” expertise in makeup transforWaiting for the laughter mation to deliver a more modto fade, Barbi’s creator and ern approach to gay-themed director tony Reyes stepped in movies. and said, “Ang iba kasi sa mga Now one can certainly ginagawa ni Paolo, gay-themed argue that the likes of Michael sila pero laging may relevance. V. and Paolo’s own friends Jose Kahit itong Barbi, compared to Manalo and Wally Bayola slaththe original concept we did ni er on the makeup and dress Joey [de Leon, who also starred up in frocks just as much for in the movie franchise in the their skits, but the difference is, 1990s], si Bartolome siya — lalunlike Paolo’s transformations, aking-lalaki bago maging Barbi they are intentionally made to out of necessity. For Paolo’s look like drag queens. As such, Barbi, closet gay siya from the very beginning na takot lumabas Photos courtesy of the Miss Universe Organization the idea behind their makeup and dress up is to make them sa pamilya niya tulad ng marami appear funny from the get go. Paolo Ballesteros pa ring gays in society.” your poise and beauty, you are Photo from Instagram/@pochoy_29 As for Paolo, rather than Direk tony even went as far a cut above the rest with your transformation ko—yung satlook ridiculous to be funny, he as to promise, “At the end of grace and elegance that exemisfaction. Kumbaga, ako, yung naturally draws oohs and aahs this movie, may ikatutuwa ang plifies a true woman of submukha ko ang canvas ko, and when dressed like a woman. gay community dito—somestance and an inspiring Filipina. for me, ito yung art ko.” And then, depending on the thing that will make them We are proud to be a part of As an actor, Paolo then skit or movie scene, he brings proud tulad ng ginawa ni Paolo your journey,” Araneta said. takes this art a step further and sa ‘Die Beautiful.’” Filipino fans and supporters, out his comedy or drama as a effectively uses it as a well of beautiful woman. Finally, as a veteran in the touted as the most avid followemotions. Case in point is his In other words, Paolo industry, Direk tony minced no ers of the pageant, shared the award-winning role as trisha Ballesteros doesn’t “do drag” words in addressing The Times’ same sentiments. Echeveri in “Die Beautiful,” in the tradition of comedians question. New mechanics which touched Japanese movie as far back as Dolphy himself. Ever so convincingly, he this year saw a new system critics and audiences alike What he does is art. said, “Magtatagal pa si Paolo in choosing the first set of finaldespite obvious cultural differEffective canvas sa mga projects tulad nito kasi ists or the top 16. Landing a ences. At the risk of sounding unang-una, may clamor ang spot were four candidates from “Mas gusto ko talaga yung tao sa kanya. At pangalawa, three geographical groups, while “mayabang,” Paolo explained nagta-transform ako [for my his artistic process at a prewalang ibang nakakagawa the remaining four (regardless roles]. Kasi yung itsura ko, isa birthday gathering last week nito. Si Vice Ganda looks and of geographical representation) yun sa mga pinaghuhugutan ko dresses the way he does every[he turns 35 on November 29]. were chosen as “wild cards.” ng character,” Paolo stressed. “Tinatanong nila ako kung day on his tV show and in his From Africa and Asia-Pacific, ‘Sawa factor’ anong naramdaman ko nung movies. Si Paolo, siya lang ang the finalists were thailand, sri Even as Paolo seems to nag-react si Gal Gadot sa post may kaya nitong transformaLanka, Ghana and south Africa; have found the perfect formula tion na ito, and it’s an amazing ko [transformed] as Wonder from Europe, spain, Ireland, Woman. Flattered ako siyempre to achieve artistic satisfaction experience to watch him do Croatia and Great Britain, and pero parang ganun din sa lahat while pursuing his acting it and then take on the new finally from the Americas were career, is he confident that his ng mga nagla-like. character. Joey needed James Colombia, UsA, Brazil and transitions will keep audiences “Kasi, hindi ko naman ito Cooper turn him into Barbi. Canada. ginagawa para sumikat sa social entertained from one project to But this Barbi, she’s entirely Peters was chosen as one of the next? media. Yung nararamdaman Paolo’s creation.” the wild cards along with VenCase in point again is the ng isang artist na nagpe-paint Like The Times said, Paolo ezuela, Jamaica and China. back-to-back showing of the sa canvas, yun ang nararamdaBallesteros is indeed in a the top 16 then advanced to comedies “trip Ubusan,” in man ko pag natapos ko yung league of his own. Continued on Page SF4

The anatomy of Mocha Uson’s ‘popularity’ 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 entertainer-turned-blogger-turnedgovernment 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-sogood, 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

features SF3 The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – December 1, 2017

Maine Mendoza: ‘I feel like living in a box’ by Rosette

Adel

Philstar.com

DUBSMASH queen Maine Mendoza took to social media to ask her fans for the freedom “to feel what I want to feel, be what I want to be, and do what I want to do.” In a lengthy open letter posted on her blog and twitter, Mendoza thanked her avid fans for their love and support but also called out some members of her fandom who, she said, Mocha Uson Inquirer.net photo dictate what “she should feel and should not feel.” I’ve put together about Mocha University of Santo tomas, she Mendoza said she has been then attended medical school Uson. feeling like she is living in a box in the same university for two Born Margaux Justiniano with fans telling her how she years before dropping out to Uson on May 17, 1982 in should act. pursue a career in the music Dagupan City, Pangasinan, “I am grateful to have all industry. She attended the she is known professionally of you who have walked this as Mocha Uson or by her stage Mother Goose Special School path with me. But I need to be System for her elementary and name Mocha. She is a filipino honest, I am at this point where singer, dancer, model, blogger high school education. I feel like I live in a box. I have Uson maintained a blog best known as the lead vocalist not been able to do what I want of the Mocha Girls. Her mother, which made her one of the and say what I feel because most widely read commentaestrellita Uson, was a pediatrievery time I try to express my tors in the Philippines. She uses cian in Dagupan. In 2010, her thoughts and feelings, some her blog to provide commenmother was diagnosed with of you tend to misapprehend tary and advice on sex-related breast cancer but is now and invalidate them in so many issues and to host online video cancer-free after undergoing ways,” Mendoza wrote. chats. the blog has over 20 miltreatment. “telling me I am not suplion hits as of June 2016. Uson first gained popularposed that way because I am During the 2016 Philippine ity as the leader of the Mocha rich and famous. telling me I presidential elections, Mocha’s Girls, an all-female dance have no right to be sad and blog posts started to focus on group. they have released a hurt because I have everything politics. Her facebook page, couple of albums and pera person could ask for. Judging, MOCHA USON BLOG, conformed in various venues blaming, and getting mad at me tained posts actively supporting throughout the Philippines, for expressing what I truly feel President rodrigo Duterte and United States, Dubai, and just because you do not agree his anti-drug campaign. the Guam. and it is inconvenient for you,” blog also criticizes the PhilipShe also had a series of she added. pines’ top newsgroups - ABSonline videos giving sex tips. Mendoza said the words of CBN, GMA Network, the PhilShe once stirred controversy her fans are affecting her and ippine Daily Inquirer, and for the ways she showed her no longer makes her happy. She rappler which she has labeled support in causes like breast added that some of her fans as “Presstitutes” — a portmancancer awareness and the pashurt her loved ones, including teau of press and prostitute. sage of the then-reproductive her family. She has also criticized Vice Health Bill. “Our families, friends, and Uson started as a solo sing- President Leni robredo, Senaworkmates are being bashed tors Leila de Lima and Antonio er-dancer blogger performing and ridiculed by some. Kahit trillanes, and the Liberal Party. in bars around Metro Manila. sinong madikit sa amin pinagiisiOne of the reasons behind She was popular for her sexy pan at pinagsasalitaan ng hindi image & on-stage antics, which Mocha’s support for Duterte, maganda. Basta hindi naaayon included lap dances. for a time, whom she believes would end sa kagustuhan ang mga nakikita, criminality in the country, was she served as the lead vocalist nagagalit. It hurts me seeing the failure of justice in the asof the rock band Mocha With them being hurt.” sassination of her father, Judge Spin Art. She said “some things are Unbeknownst to most peo- Oscar Uson. really getting out of hand” while On May 8, 2017, Uson’s ple, Uson earned a degree in referring to her fans’ fight with medical technology from the Continued on Page SF4

Maine Mendoza

other fandoms. the social media star turned Kalyeserye queen said she is in showbiz because she wants to make people happy by just being herself and not for money or fame. “I hope you understand that I am here because I love making people happy,” she said. Mendoza called on her supporters to go back to the root of what made her and her onscreen partner Alden richards famous, which is love. Mendoza, known as “Yaya Dub,” and richards became a love team in 2015 after joining noontime show “eat Bulaga”. they were then dubbed “Al-

GMA photo

Dub” and their fans were called “AlDub nation.” “I do hope I have also given you enough joy for you to give me freedom I believe I deserve. freedom to feel what I want to feel, be what I want to be, and do what I want to do,” Mendoza concluded, adding that richards deserves the same, too. In June 2017, it can be recalled that Mendoza deactivated her twitter account after some of her supporters bashed Kapuso actor Sef Cadayona for their rumored relationship. She is among the most followed local celebrities with over 4.5 million followers on twitter.

SF4

celebrityworld

T he As ian Jour na l SF M A G A Z I NE - D ec ember 1 , 2 0 1 7

celebrity world By Ferdie Villar

Many fans of Megastar Sharon Cuneta were really disappointed when her project with ex-hubby Gabby Concepcion did not push through. according to reports, the actor turned it down because he was doing a soap with GMa 7. Coming to the rescue is action star Robin Padilla, who said that the reason he accepted the project was because Star Cinema told him that Sharon needs him. and with this, the movie “Unexpectedly yours” is now a reality, running its first week in cinemas all over the Philippines. During the movie’s press conference, Robin candidly blurted out, “Hindi ko naman talaga pelikula ito eh. Pelikula ng Sharon-Gabby ito...” But Sharon explained that the project with Gabby was totally scrapped. The action star sacrificed a lot just to do the film, including putting on hold two projects he is doing under his own production. He also had to cut his hair and shave his mustache, but explained it was all worth it. It’s been 16 years since Sharon and Robin worked together, and with “Unexpect-

edly yours,” both agreed that they enjoyed the experience because they like each other a lot. The Megastar considers Robin as her twin, she said, because they are so alike in so many ways. “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 [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. Robin is just as happy to be doing the movie with Sharon. He sweetly said, “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’.” “Unexpectly your” also stars Julia Barretto and Joshua Garcia. *** Miss Philippines Rachel Peters may not have won the

Tess Gregorio, Filipina singer for all occasions, celebrated her 76th birthday recently at the Filipino American Society, Inc. (FASI) in Fremont with her family and friends. Shown in photo are (L-R) Fely Latade Ince, James Binoya, Bernie Yap, Remy Nympha Miranda, Henni Espinosa of “Balitang Amerca,” the celebrant and Atty. Melba Cawit.

The anatomy of Mocha... From Page SF3 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 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 “Makadilaw.” The majority claims that Mocha Uson is the epitome of anti-intellectualism. 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-atme-now.” 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

Sharon Cuneta, Robin Padilla reunite onscreen

crown in the most recent Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas, but Filipinos are still proud of her for representing the country. Rachel made it to the top 16 for the swimsuit competition after she became part of the four wild card candidates. The top 16 was composed of four girls from the continents of america, four from Europe, and four from asia, africa, and Pacific, plus four “wild cards.” Peters then advanced to the Megastar Sharon Cuneta and action star Robin Padilla reunite on the big screen via the movie “Unexpectedly Yours”. The movie also stars Julia Barretto and Joshua Garcia. top 10 and competed for the evening gown competition. But she failed to make it to top five where candidates were asked a question to determine the top three. The new Miss Universe is Demi-Leigh nel-Peters of South africa. Filipinos are equally proud of Ilene De Vera, who finished 5th in the Miss asia Pacific International 2017 pageant held last Wednesday, nov. 29, at Resorts World Manila. Taking the crown for Miss asia Pacific International is Miss Brazil, Francielly Ouriques, who bested 41 other Filipina nurse from San Francisco Cherina Tinio is Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters of South Africa was crowned Filipinos are still proud of Miss Philippines Rachel candidates. She received her shown in photo with Miss Philippines Universe Raas this year’s Miss Universe 2017 last weekend in Peters even if she wasn’t able to bring home the crown from Dutch beauty Tessa chel Peters during the finals of the beauty pageant Las Vegas. (Photo from missuniverse.com) Miss Universe crown. (Photo from missuniverse.com) Le Conge. in Las Vegas last weekend.

Miss Asia Pacific International Francielly Ouriques of Brazil (center) is flanked by (from left) fourth runnerup Ilene De Vera of the Philippines, third runner-up Morgan Doelwut of the Netherlands, first runner-up Acacia Walker of New Zealand and second runner-up Valeria Cardona of Honduras. (Photo by Armin P. Adina/Inquirer.net)

Amidst rumors of their relationship, it was reported that actor John Lloyd Cruz met and spent some time with Ellen Adarna’s parents in Cebu recently, which sent more questions about whether or not the actress is pregnant. (Photo from Instagram @maria.elena.adarna)

Sylvia’s constant reminder to son Arjo by Bot

Glorioso Philstar.com

MOST mothers certainly know what’s best for their children and that includes Sylvia Sanchez who never tires of reminding her son arjo atayde about what he must consider before getting romantically involved with someone. “I always tell him that it is fine with me whoever is that girl you wish to introduce (to us) — whether famous or not, rich or not — for as long as she loves me and your dad kumbaga marunong makisama, hindi bastos at hindi mapagmalaki,” said Sylvia during the presscon for “Hanggang Saan”, the latest aBS-CBn afternoon drama she’s starring in with arjo for the first time. arjo — with a smile plastered on his face — butted in with an amusing revelation that even when he’s still in a courtship stage, his mom would automatically assume that he’d right away jump into marriage. Still, Sylvia stressed that it is important for his son or whoever among her children to look for someone who is respectful and can get along well with the whole family. “It is really important for them to love each other, that’s the first and second, it is necessary na mahal ang pamilya ng isa’t isa para masaya lahat,” Sylvia pointed out. Of course, Sylvia added that disagreements arise at times with arjo standing by what his heart dictates. “There was a time when I mentioned to him that the girl seemed to have an attitude and he reasoned na s’ya naman ang makakasama o magiging asawa kaya sabi ko sige s’ya ang mapapangasawa pero sino ang pamilya n’ya at sino ang nanay

n’ya? Ako pa rin ‘yun, kaya kung hindi kasundo ang pamilya hindi pwede.” But Sylvia would like to make one thing clear: she does not meddle in his son’s dating life. Her reminder only serves as a guide for her son to make a better judgment. arjo, on the other hand, admitted that his mom is protective of him and his siblings like any other mothers. She keeps a close watch on them no matter how busy she can get with her acting career. “She’s a nagger, sobrang mabunganga,” said arjo of his mom’s level of protectiveness, adding, “She’ll do everything to find out what you’re doing, she’ll do everything to protect you and she’ll do everything to love you at the same time.” That’s why Sylvia describes her character Sonya in Hanggang Saan as having a close resemblance to her personality when it comes to love for her children. “Hanggang uugod-ugod na ako, I will protect my children. I am always at their back, they can decide for themselves and I would allow them to go on with their decisions as long as they are right. Otherwise, I tell them straight (that they’re wrong) for them to learn.” So far, mother and son have no issues at all “kasi si arjo, mabait although sometimes it cannot be helped to have some misunderstandings but what’s nice is that he knows how to say, ‘Ma, I’m sorry, I love you,’ at doon pa lang tunaw na ko.” arjo, for his part, said the challenge of working with his mom onscreen is to play their

Sylvia Sanchez and son Arjo Atayde star in their first acting project together via the ABS-CBN latest afternoon drama series Hanggang Saan, to air weekdays beginning today. Below: With co-stars (from left) Ariel Rivera, Teresa Loyzaga, Sue Ramirez and Yves Flores. Philstar.com photos

characters as believable as possible, disregarding how they are in reality. “you know, I just imbibe my character’s personality in order for me to lose myself into it. So far (basing from the teaser), we were able to show our characters and not how we are in reality.” In fact, working with Sylvia is something that arjo has always been ready to do, but he didn’t expect it to happen this soon. “I can’t describe the feeling

PH takes pride in Rachel Peters... From Page SF2 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

probably because it hasn’t sunk in yet. It’s unexpected I guess. I wasn’t expecting to work with her this early. Perhaps, I will take it as part of my journey. Everything that happens to me right now, every blessing I just enjoy it. I am thankful and I am very excited,” said arjo who Sylvia revealed as the one who suggested that she should shed weight in order for her to have a different look from her previous mother role in “The Greatest Love”. 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.

entertainment

Bianca Umali shines twice Pia Wurtzbach: No such as bright in new series

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - December 1, 2017

A rIVeTINg tale of family and love that transcends into the supernatural realm is set to premiere tonight on gMA Network. Titled “Kambal, Karibal,” the series follows the lives of twin sisters Crisanta and Criselda, both portrayed by talented young actress Bianca Umali. The story begins when Criselda dies from a rare disease but remains a spirit who only appears to her sister Crisanta. however, their bond will start to break when they both fall in love with Diego. Criselda’s emotions consume her forcing her to find another person’s body to inhabit. Now that she is “alive,” she will stop at nothing to win Diego’s love. Playing the twins’ object of affection is Miguel Tanfelix, while the show’s powerhouse cast is comprised of seasoned actors Jean garcia, Marvin Agustin, Alfred Vargas and Carmina Villarroel. The series also features showbiz luminaries gloria romero and Christopher de Leon, with special participa-

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thing as beauty pageant jinx

Bianca Umali

tion of Katrina halili and gardo Versoza. “Kambal, Karibal” is di-

GMA photo

rected by Don Michael Perez, and airs after “Super Ma’am.” (ManilaTimes.net)

Maria Isabel Lopez’s license revoked, fined P8K by Gaea

Maria Isabel Lopez appeared before LTO Law Enforcement Service Director Francis Almora last November 16 to explain her breaching a security lane during the ASEAN Summit. 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. Philstar.com photo by Boy Santos

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 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

There are rumors in social media that Miss Philippines rachel Peters only reached top 10 at the 2017 Miss Universe pageant because Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach from the Philippines was a judge. This also reportedly happened to Philippines’ Mary Jean “MJ” Lastimosa during the Miss Universe pageant in 2015. MJ was Miss Universe Philippines 2014. Like Peters, Lastimosa also allegedly did not advance from the top 10 as Filipino boxing champ Manny Pacquiao was in the judges’ panel. Before Miss Universe, netizens have observed another pattern: Mariel de Leon, Philippines’ representative for Miss International 2017, was unplaced because the reigning country then was Philippines, as represented by Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa. According to pageant observers, once the Philippines wins in Miss International, the Pia Wurtzbach following year, as the reigning country, the nation’s bet will be do that. That’s not really fair. “unplaced” in the pageant. And I don’t think there’s a For Wurtzbach, supersticurse either or there’s a jinx,” tions like these have no solid Pia told Philstar.com in a recent basis. interview during her launch “I don’t think so. I don’t as endorser of mineral water think that they would allow brand Aquafina. you to join if you’re already For Pia, nobody and nothdestined to not get the crown. ing should be blamed whenI don’t think pageants would ever Miss Philippines loses.

“I think it just so happened that you know, we haven’t seen a back-to-back yet at Miss Universe. But I don’t think that it has anything to do with the competition or the judges or the girl, our representative,” Pia further explained. (Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo/ Philstar.com)

well as herself. “had there been a serious mishap 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.

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

Instagram/@piawurtzbach

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The Asian Jo ur na l SF M A G A Z I NE - D ec emb e r 1 , 2 0 1 7

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