August 23-25, 2017 Volume 27 - No. 68 • 3 Sections - 24 Pages
DATELINE
USA
FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
PH Immigration to deport nabbed American pedophile
Palace: US aid conditions should be aligned with Duterte admin’s agenda by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
2018. “We acknowledge and welcome the decision of the United MANILA - Any conditions States Millennium Challenge on assistance the Philippines Corp to extend assistance to the may receive from a foreign aid Philippines after the first grant agency must be aligned with ended in May 2016,” Duterte’s the policies of President Ro- spokesperson Ernesto Abella drigo Duterte’s administration, said. a Palace official said. MCC said it will assess a Malacañang issued the state- country’s eligibility for the ment on Sunday, August 20 grant based on criteria such after Washington-based Millen- as the country’s demonstrated nium Challenge Corp. (MCC) commitment to just and demoannounced that the Philippines cratic governance, economic is among the candidate coun- freedom, and investments in its tries to receive assistance for people. Inquirer.net photo
THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) is already preparing the deportation of an American pedophile arrested in Pampanga during the weekend. Ronald Omar Pelletier, 70, was arrested Saturday at his home along Paulette Street, Josefa Subdivision, Brgy. Malabanias, Angeles City. He was arrested by members of the Fugitive Search Unit. BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said Pelletier has been wanted by federal authorities
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For Covered California, uncertainty is the new certainty SACRAM E N T O — Covered California’s board made several multimillion-dollar decisions Thursday, all addressing one unsettling theme: uncertainty. Over and over, board Covered California Executive Director m e m b e r s Peter Lee Photo by Max Whittaker blamed “uncertainty” at the federal level for interfering with their ability to finalize premiums for 2018 and prepare consumers for open enrollment, which begins Nov. 1. In response to that uncertainty, the board agreed to delay a critical decision on 2018 rate hikes, boost Covered California’s marketing budget by more than $5 million and allow its participating insurers to make higher profits in the future — under certain circumstances. “The lack of clarity and direction at the federal level continues to be a challenge,” said Covered California Executive Director Peter Lee. “While we are doing our best to manage a difficult situation, we hope Congress and the administration will provide clear guidance on how [they intend] to stabilize the individual insurance market.” One of the most pressing questions facing Covered California and other Obamacare exchanges
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Malacañang spokesperson Ernesto Abella
Additional indicators include the country’s opportunity to reduce poverty and generate economic growth in the country, as well as the availability of funds. The Philippines’ inclusion, Abella said, serves as a “recognition of the efforts” of the administration to “continue and maintain macroeconomic policies while investing in human capital development in health and educational systems and improving social protection programs to protect the poor.”
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Pres. Rodrigo Duterte admitted on Monday, Aug. 21 that some abuses may have been committed by government forces enforcing his antidrug crackdown. Malacañang photo
FUNERAL PROTEST. The children of Leover Miranda stand behind the hearse that carried their father’s remains to the Manila North Cemetery where he was buried on Sunday, Aug. 20. Miranda was one of dozens of drug suspects killed in several massive anti-drug operations in Metro Manila and Bulacan province last week. ManilaTimes.net photo by Bob Dungo Jr.
Gov’t dismisses moves to oust Duterte, says they’re ‘politically motivated’ THE government dismissed alleged moves to oust President Rodrigo Duterte by a group calling itself the Patriotic and Democratic Movement (Padem). In a press conference on Tues-
day, Palace spokesman Ernesto Abella said these moves by Padem, which claims to have members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), were “politically motivated”.
In a separate statement, the military, through Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla Jr., spokesman, vowed that the AFP would support Duterte, its commander-in-chief, and reiter-
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Duterte still ‘in full control’ of drug war by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
MALACAÑANG on Tuesday, August 22 assured that President Rodrigo Duterte remains “in full control” of the Philippine National Police (PNP)’s enforcement of the administration’s crackdown on illegal drugs. In a press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella refuted accusations that Duterte has lost control of the police amid the controversial killing
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At Russia, with love: Filipinos among CA affirms Pemberton’s conviction on killing of Laude few with favorable view of Moscow by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
by AUDREY
MORALLO Philstar.com
THE Philippines is just one of three countries in the world that holds a favorable opinion of Russia, according to an international survey, bucking a global trend of distrust that Moscow will do the right thing in international affairs. A slight majority of Filipinos, 55 percent, have expressed a positive view of Moscow, according to Pew Research’s Global Attitudes Project. Aside from the Philippines, only Vietnam (83 Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte listens to Russian President Vladimir Putin during their percent) and Greece (64 percent) meeting at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in Lima, Peru in November last year. Malacañang photo
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THE Philippine Court of Appeals (CA) has upheld with finality its earlier decision convicting United States Marine Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton for killing Filipino transgender woman Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude in October 2014. In a resolution issued on Tuesday, August 15, the appellate court’s former Special 16th Division dismissed the appeal filed by Pemberton seeking to reverse the CA’s decision last April, which affirmed the earlier ruling of the Olongapo City Regional Trial Court (RTC) against him. “With respect to Pemberton’s motion, we maintain our ruling
that his invocation of self-defense is an admission of the killing and of its authorship,” the CA decision read, penned by Associate Justice Marlene Gonzales-Sison. The CA said that Pemberton’s arguments are a mere “rehash of issues” already discussed in its decision in April 3 of this year. In its recent resolution, the court again dismissed Pemberton’s argument that he killed Laude in self-defense after the latter allegedly attacked him when he discovered Laude’s real gender. “The allegation of Pemberton that he was slapped by Laude could not even be corroborated by any medical findings. Worthy United States Marine Lance Corporal Joseph
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Scott Pemberton Photo from Olongapo City Jail
A AUGUST 23-25, 2017 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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From the Front Page
Palace: US aid conditions...
PAGE A1 He credited the administration’s socioeconomic agenda for the Philippines’ inclusion in MCC’s list of candidate countries. While the Philippine government welcomed the recent developments, Malacañang stressed that it will study the
conditions set by the U.S. poverty reduction agency. “While we are happy with this new development, our economic managers would study the conditions set by the MCC if these are aligned with the President’s priority agenda,” Abella added.
In December 2016, MCC deferred a vote on the re-selection of the Philippines, saying it withheld its second aid due to “significant concerns around rule of law and civil liberties.” Its first grant, worth $434 million, expired in May last year. n
Gov’t dismisses moves to oust Duterte... PAGE A1 ated its “apolitical stance.” A statement purportedly being circulated by Padem is calling for the ouster of Duterte “for betraying public trust, in violation of public trust, and in violation of national sovereignty and democratic rights of the people.” It is accusing Duterte of: • allegedly treating the AFP and Philippine National Police (PNP) as his private armies and was playing favorites; • bungling operations in Marawi City;
• allowing Chinese vessels to occupy some parts of West Philippine Sea; • condoning top illegal drug lords, including his son, Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte; • inciting police officers to engage in extrajudicial killings, among others. “We based our statement on the AFP’s assessment and it says it is politically-motivated group and that we should be wary of their statements,” Abella told reporters. “Such issues are clearly politically motivated and a matter that the AFP does not and will not sub-
scribe to,” Abella said. He added that the AFP would not hesitate “acting against forces who shall undermine the stability and security of our country and those who wish to destabilize our nation thru unconstitutional means.” Meanwhile, Padilla said: “The entire AFP along with all the men and women of the uniformed services and all our civilian personnel stand by the constitutionally mandated government and unequivocally supports the Commanderin-Chief.” (Catherine S. Valente, Dempsey Reyes/ManilaTimes.net)
FINAL FAREWEL. Schoolmates of Kian Lloyd Delos Santos cry as they view his remains at the Our Lady of Lourdes College in Valenzuela City. De los Santos will be buried on Sunday, Aug. 27. ManilaTimes.net photo by Roger Rañada
Duterte still ‘in full control’...
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spree—particularly of the recent killing of a Grade 11 student during an anti-drug operation last week. “Malinaw naman na (It’s very clear that) the president is in full control,” Abella told reporters. 17-year-old Kian Loyd Delos Santos was killed during an antidrug operation in Caloocan City on Wednesday, August 16 after allegedly pulling a gun on police officers. A CCTV footage, however, showed Delos Santos being dragged by the police to the spot where he was killed. Witnesses also gave statements supporting the footage, adding that the police gave Delos Santos a gun and told him to run. The teenager’s death has sparked public outrage, and various groups joined in a “Justice for Kian” rally the following Monday, August 21. Several rallyists expressed sentiments that Duterte seemed to have lost control of the police. “I think they misread the situation. The President is very concerned that these things will be properly handled and properly managed,” Abella further said. In a statement, United States Ambassador the Philippines Sung Kim extended his condolences to the family and friends of Delos Santos. He also joined the call for “full accountability” in the killing
of the teenager. “My condolences go out to the family and friends of Kian,” the U.S. Ambassador said in a tweet. Malacañang earlier assured that “mistakes and illegal acts (by the police) would not be tolerated.” “This deeply regrettable incident has triggered deep public sentiment, and challenges those in law enforcement to be wary of the reckless exercise of power and authority,” Abella said. He added, “The President, who continues to vigorously pursue the dismantling of drug apparatus, ensures that erring enforcers will be properly investigated.” The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has begun its formal investigation into the death of Delos Santos. The three cops involved in the operation were relieved of their post amid the investigation. They were Police Chief Insp. Amor Cerillo, commander of Police Community Precinct 7, PO3 Arnel Oares, PO1 Jeremiah Pereda and PO1 Jerwin Cruz. In a separate statement, the PNP asked the public to not generalize the drug war based on the death of Delos Santos. “This is a separate incident. Huwag natin i-generalize na (Let us not generalize that) because of one incident, lahat ng (all) police operation[s] will result as same as to Kian,” PNP Spokesperson Chief Superintendent Dionardo
Carlos said. The Philippine government’s socalled drug war has been highly criticized by the international community and various human rights groups over its alleged thousands of state-sanctioned killings and rights abuses, which in turn, had been repeatedly refuted by the Duterte administration. Carlos noted that there has been about 1.039 million drug personalities who surrendered to the authorities since Duterte launched the campaign in July last year. He also cited the arrest of about 90,000 drug suspects “who violated the law” but were still alive and detained. “Let us not generalize the incident involving the minor. Iba po ‘yan sa pang araw-araw na nagaganap (This is different from what is happening everyday),” the PNP official added. On Sunday, August 20, all members of the Senate majority, except Senator Manny Pacquiao, reportedly signed a resolution seeking an investigation into the apparent abuses of the PNP in the war on drugs. According to an Inquirer report, the senators have agreed to tap Senator Panfilo Lacson’s committee on public order to investigate Delos Santos’ death and further “determine the accountability of the PNP in the conduct of the anti-illegal drug campaign that may have resulted in unnecessary and unjustified deaths and/or killings.” n
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Fil-Am gymnast bags gold, repeats mom’s feat by Olmin leyba Philstar.com
It’s virtually liquid gold that runs through the veins of young gymnastics sensation Kaitlin de Guzman. Gifted with the genes of a former southeast Asian Games champion and a firm resolve to excel in the same battlefront, 17year-old De Guzman carved her name in the company of greats by winning the Malaysia sEAG’s uneven bars event. this she achieved 22 years after her mother, Cintamoni “tammy” de la Cruz, crowned herself the golden girl of the exact event when the biennial sEA Games was held in the hilly thai city of Chiang Mai. tammy excitedly watched from the sidelines and recorded a video of Kaitlin’s moves and couldn’t be prouder to see her bask in glory and enjoy the very experience she had way back in 1995. “super proud! so excited!!!! Dream come true,” an ecstatic tammy, who also owns a bronze in the uneven bars from the 1997 sEAG, told the stAR.
Kaitlin de Guzman of the Philippines competes in the uneven bars of the women’s artistic gymnastics competition, where she won gold in the 29th Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Tuesday, Aug. 22. Inset photo from the PSC shows Kaitlin with her mother Cintamoni, who won gold in the same event during the 1995 Chiang Mai SEA Games. Philstar.com photo by Jun Mendoza
From club competitions in the U.s., Kaitlin shifted to international play and stuck gold on her sEA Games debut. “I’m so very happy with my very first gold medal representing the Philippines,” Kaitlin said. Proud mom said Kaitlin’s triumph was actually a pleasant surprise.
“We were not expecting her to win since this is just her first sEA Games,” said tammy, who posted a winning 9.10 when she achieved her feat in 1995. “All we were hoping for her is to qualify for the finals. this victory is a major surprise; that’s why we’re so happy with this achievement.” n
HISTORIC ECLIPSE. The moon is seen as it starts passing in front of the sun during a solar eclipse from Ross Lake, Northern Cascades National Park, in Washington on Monday, Aug. 21. NASA reported 4.4 million people were watching its TV coverage midway through the eclipse, the biggest livestream event in the space agency’s history. Photo from NASA by Bill Ingalls
Trump draws flak for echoing fake story For Covered California, uncertainty... on Pershing’s 20th century exploits in PH PAGE A1
U.s. President Donald trump was much quicker on thursday, Aug. 17 to condemn the violence in Barcelona, where more than a dozen people were killed when a van veered onto a sidewalk and sped down a busy pedestrian zone in what authorities called a terror attack. He then added to his expression of support a tweet reviving a debunked legend about a U.s. general subduing Muslim rebels a century ago in the Philippines by shooting them with bullets dipped in pig blood, the Associated Press reported. “study what General Pershing of the United states did to terrorists when caught. there was no more Radical Islamic terror for 35 years!” trump wrote. Hours after trump’s tweet, newspapers quickly pointed out the U.s. president’s incautiousness. the independent said: “He appeared to be referring to a widely debunked story that Pershing overcame militant Muslims in the Philippines by killing them and burying their bodies with pigs.” “Another part of the legend is that he killed them with bullets
across the country is whether President Donald trump will continue to fund critical subsidies that help reduce many consumers’ out-ofpocket expenses. the White House announced this week it would fund those so-called cost-sharing reduction payments this month but did not say whether it would continue to do so after that. Covered California is seeking a long-term commitment to fund the subsidies, which are available only to consumers whose incomes are low enough to qualify and who purchase silver-level plans, the second-least expensive among the exchange’s four tiers of coverage. the subsidies reduce what they pay for medical expenses such as Photo screengrabbed from Pres. Donald Trump’s Twitter account copayments and deductibles. Earlier this month, the exchange ty, studied Pershing and published dipped in pigs’ blood.” According to the Indepen- “Guardians of Empire,” a book on announced proposed average statedent, historians who have studied the U.s. military presence in Asia wide rate hikes of 12.5 percent for 2018. It also floated an additional Pershing’s activities in the Moro from 1902 to 1940. Linn told the paper that he found average surcharge of 12.4 percent province from 1909 to 1913 had on silver plans if the federal gov“no evidence this occurred.” discredited these claims. “It’s a made-up story. It doesn’t ernment does not commit to makthe Washington Post also has a take on trump’s outrageous seem to matter how many times ing the payments. Covered California was supposed people say this isn’t true. No one claims. It said Brian M. Linn, a history can say where or when this oc- to decide by the end of this month whether to apply the surcharge professor at texas A&M Universi- curred,” he said. (Inquirer.net)
next year. But on thursday, its board announced it will push the deadline to sept. 30. “Our hope is that by changing the deadline to allow Congress to act, we will not have to deal with the … surcharge,” Lee said. the surcharge would vary by region and plan, ranging from 8 percent to 27 percent — on top of the regular annual premium increases, Lee said. Covered California consumers who receive tax credits to reduce their monthly premiums would not bear the full brunt of the increase, however, because those credits would also rise. Delaying the decision until the end of september doesn’t leave much time for Covered California — its health plans — to finalize rates and prepare consumers to renew their health plans or shop for new ones, said Diana Dooley, board chair and secretary of the state Health and Human services Agency. But the board doesn’t want to raise silver plan rates prematurely, in case Congress acts next month to fund the cost-sharing subsidies on a more durable basis, she said. If Congress doesn’t act until the
very end of september, “that will put extraordinary pressure on our system,” she said. Charles Bacchi, president and CEO of the California Association of Health Plans, said 1.2 million renewal packets will have to be dispatched to enrollees on a very tight timeline. “It is going to be a heavy lift, but the plans will work to do the best we can under difficult circumstances,” he said. the board also agreed to modify its contracts with participating insurers to allow them to make higher profits in 2019, 2020 and 2021 if they lose money next year as a result of continued uncertainty or changes in existing federal policy. For example, one way insurers could lose money is if the federal government stops enforcing the Obamacare requirement to have health insurance, known as the individual mandate, Covered California said. the change also requires plans that reap increased profits next year — again, because of uncertainty or changes in federal policy — to lower their premiums over the next one to three years. Lee explained that Covered California’s insurers usually make a profit of about 1 to 3 percent annuPAGE A5
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DATELINE PHILIPPINES
‘Comeleaks’ included in impeach raps vs Bautista by EDU
PUNAY Philstar.com
MANILA - The breach in voters’ data prior to the elections last year or the so-called “Comeleaks” will be included in the impeachment complaint to be filed against Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Andres Bautista in the House of Representatives. The complainants, to be led by former Negros Oriental representative Jacinto Paras, will raise the criminal liability of Bautista in the hacking of the Comelec website that led to the leakage of voters’ database — as discovered by the National Privacy Commission (NPC) — as one of the grounds in the impeachment complaint. Paras’ lawyer Manuelito Luna bared that Bautista’s accountabilities for the data breach and the script tweak of the server during the 2016 elections constitute betrayal of public trust and culpable violation of the Constitution. He said they would submit to the House the NPC decision last December finding Bautista liable for lack of appreciation for data protection, which the commission said was more than just the implementation of security measures. The NPC concluded that Bautista’s willful and intentional disregard of his duties as head of agency is tantamount to gross negligence. “A head of agency making his acts depend on the recommendations of the executive director of the Information Technology Department amplifies the want of even slight care. The duty to obey the law should begin at the top and should not be frustrated simply because no employee recommended such action,” the NPC said in its
Chairman Andres Bautista
decision released last January. “Data privacy is more than the deployment of technical security; it also includes the implementation of physical and organizational measures, as well as regular review, evaluation and updating of Comelec’s privacy and security policies and practices,” it stressed. The commission specifically cited violations of Sections 11, 20 and 21 of Republic Act 10173 or the Data Privacy Act in dispensing the poll body’s duty as personal information controller. The NPC stressed that Bautista also violated several provisions of the same law, which penalizes accessing sensitive personal information due to negligence and imposes imprisonment of three to six years and a fine of P500,000 to P4 million. The law also accords additional penalties when the offender is a public officer, consisting of disqualification from public office. Bautista was ordered to appoint a data protection officer and conduct an agency-wide privacy impact assessment. The NPC also recommended to the Department of Justice to look
Philstar.com photo
into possible prosecution of Bautista under the Cybercrime Prevention Act. The DOJ indicted last June an official of Smartmatic Inc., the technology provider of Comelec for the automated polls, over the alteration of script in the transparency server on the eve of the general elections in May 2016. Prosecutors have found probable cause to file a case for violation of Republic Act 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act) against Smartmatic technical support head Marlon Garcia for unauthorized access of the computer and intentional and reckless altering of computer data. The DOJ resolution, however, did not include Bautista, owing to his immunity from criminal suit as an impeachable official. Apart from the “Comeleaks” controversy, the impeachment complaint is expected to cite as grounds the alleged hidden wealth of Bautista or misdeclaration in his statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN) and receipt of referral fees or commissions from the Divina Law Office as alleged by his estranged wife Patricia Paz.
Immigration to deport nabbed...
PAGE A1 in Florida for violating the conditions of his parole. “He will be deported for being an undesirable and undocumented alien,” said Morente, who added that the American’s passport was already cancelled by the US State Department.
He added that the summary deportation order will be issued by the Board of Commissioners this week. Immigration intelligence officer Bobby Raquepo, BI-FSU acting chief, disclosed that Pelletier last arrived in the country on May 20 this year.
Raquepo said Pelletier was sentenced by the Florida court to 18 months imprisonment and five years of supervised release following his conviction for possession of child pornography on Sept. 21 last year. He was also fined US$10,000. (Tetch Torres-Tupas/Inquirer.net)
FLORAL OFFERING. Former senator Heherson Alvarez (center), founding chairman of the Ninoy Aquino Movement, and Ninoy Aquino Medal of Valor awardees offer flowers at the tarmac marker of NAIA Terminal 1 in Pasay City during the commemoration of the 34th death anniversary of former Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Jr. on Monday, August 21. PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan
CA affirms Pemberton’s conviction... PAGE A1 to note that according to Pemberton, the slap he allegedly received made his ear ring which if true should have promoted Pemberton to immediately seek medical attention,” the CA said. The court reiterated that selfdefense implied Pemberton’s admission that he committed the criminal act. It further said that the U.S. marine’s immediate escape from the Celzone Lodge in Olongapo
City is a sign of guilt. “The bits of evidence, pieced together, point to Pemberton as the killer of Laude. Ostensibly, our rules make no distinction between direct evidence of a fact and evidence of circumstances from which the existence of a fact may be inferred. Pemberton’s criminal liability for homicide stands,” the CA added. The court, likewise, upheld its order to Pemberton to pay Laude’s family P4.32 million for loss of earning capacity, P30,000
For Covered California, uncertainty... PAGE A4 ally. But, for example, if one should lose money next year, its profit margin could grow to 6 to 8 percent in the subsequent three years, he said. Any profit increase would be decided on a case-by-case basis and depend on the amount of the loss, he said. The contract amendment would not change any laws or violate any rules, such as the Medical Loss Ratio provision of the Affordable Care Act, Lee said. That provision requires most insurance companies that cover individuals and small businesses to spend at least 80 percent of their premium dollars on medical care and the remaining 20 percent on administration, market-
ing and profit. Consumer advocates testified Thursday that they were initially skeptical of the change, but they now hope it will save consumers money in the long run. “We like the idea that it is balanced and if [there is profit], it could go to reducing premiums,” said Doreena Wong, project director at Asian Americans Advancing Justice, a Los Angeles-based civil rights group. In another move tied to the uncertainty over federal policy, the board agreed to increase its marketing budget by $5.3 million, bringing the total to $111.5 million for 2017-18. The additional money will pay for more radio and television spots, and more direct mail to
for exemplary damages, P75,000 for civil indemnity, P75,000 for moral damages, and P155,250 for the wake, burial, and related expenses. The CA also maintained it its affirmation on the RTC’s ruling which sentenced Pemberton to a maximum of 10 years of imprisonment. Pemberton is currently detained at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) headquarters at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City. ■ consumers. Some of the advertising will target Covered California enrollees who are losing their Anthem Blue Cross plan next year. Anthem will exit the individual market in 16 of the state’s 19 pricing regions, which will force 153,000 enrollees to find new plans. Anthem cited uncertainty and market instability for its pullout. “This open enrollment is going to be our most challenging since year one,” Lee said. (Ana B. Ibarra/Kaiser Health News) This story was produced by Kaiser Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation. KHN’s coverage in California is funded in part by Blue Shield of California Foundation. ■
A6 AUGUST 23-25, 2017 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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OPINION
Credible probe needed
FEATURES
DAYS after Kian Loyd delos Santos was gunned down near his home in Caloocan, police have trotted out someone who claims to have personal knowledge about the slain teen’s alleged activities as a drug courier. The story, however, is proving to be a hard sell in this season of “planting” drugs and guns to bolster police claims of resisting arrest. Too many “witnesses” in this country have admitted lying to protect themselves from police brutality, or have recanted their stories or contradicted each other’s testimonies even before a congressional inquiry. The commander of the Northern Police District, which has jurisdiction over Caloocan, has admitted that neither Delos Santos nor his father was on the drug watch list of the city’s police, although Caloocan cops are now frantically moving to present Kian as a “new” drug suspect. The NPD chief also admitted that the Grade 11 student was not the target of the police sweep on Wednesday night last week. There’s also that damning surveillance video footage of Delos Santos being dragged away moments before his death. Police are claiming the boy in the
video is not Delos Santos, even if barangay personnel and the boy’s neighbors insist otherwise. An autopsy showed Delos Santos was shot in the head and back. What happened to shooting merely to disable? This boy was finished off. Even if defenders of the brutal drug war manage to prove that Delos Santos was a drug courier who tried to shoot the police, it does not justify his killing. Cops should also be aware that suspected child offenders younger than 18 enjoy special protection under the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006. With the frantic police efforts to present Delos Santos belatedly as a drug fiend, the investigation of this case should be taken out of the hands of the Philippine National Police – if the government wants a credible probe. The Duterte administration has so far enjoyed public support in the war on drugs. Admitting that abuses are possible in the drug war and that ing punishment for the rotten eggs will not weaken there can be bad eggs in the police, and guarantee- the PNP. On the contrary, the PNP will enjoy greater
Editorial
ManilaTimes.net photo
public trust if it helps give justice to Kian delos Santos. (Philstar.com)
Duterte finally admits possible police abuses in his war against illegal drugs
REST in peace, Kian delos Santos, who was The Fil-Am 17 years young when he was killed by police Perspective during an anti-drug operation last Thursday, August 17. People all over the world, including inter- GEL SANTOS-RELOS national media organizations, government officials and even ordinary citizens, have expressed their outrage and called out Duterte for the gruesome killings in the Philippines. Amid the mourning and the flak, many among the police and Duterte’s supporters have been spreading stories about Kian that he was a user and a courier who was caught with two sachets of shabu. Police reports said Kian ran when he saw the police approaching him, then he allegedly pulled out a gun and fired at the policemen who, because “nanlaban ang suspect,” had to fire back. Another version was that his father was the real user/ pusher, while his father said he would submit himself to a drug test to prove otherwise. But those who witnessed the killing said the 17-year-old boy was not armed at all, and that they believe he had been framed by the three police officers. Witnesses also said Kian was forced to hold a gun, fire and run. The poor boy was crying, pleading with the policemen to stop because he ”had an exam the next day.” Kian wanted to be a cop someday, and in these cops’ hands were the guns that shot him and his dreams to death. The aforementioned witness accounts and a CCTV footage disputed the police’ version of the story. The footage showed Kian being carried by two men to the place where his lifeless body was found. Several lawmakers from the opposition and even Duterte’s own allies condemned the killing and have demanded an investigation, not only into Kian’s case, but also into the spike in killings lately. The New York Times reported that “58 people suspected of selling or using
drugs have been killed in Manila and its northern suburbs in just three days, making this the deadliest week so far in President Rodrigo Duterte’s monthslong drug crackdown,” the police said on August 17. The victims were mostly the poor and the helpless — not the big fish drug lords and traders. As Al Jazeera news reported, Duterte’s critics said during the rally on Monday that demanded an end to the killings said “the death toll in Duterte’s war on drugs has now reached 13,000 - surpassing the number of deaths of anti-government activists during Marcos’ two decades in office.” The report further said Government statistics reveal that since Duterte took office last year, around 3,451 “drug personalities” have been killed in gun battles with police, and this number is only up to July 26, 2017. Moreover, about 2,000 more reportedly died in drug-related homicides. This would include attacks by motorcycle-riding masked gunmen and other assaults, while 8,200 homicide cases are “under investigation”. On Monday, August 21, Duterte admitted in a press conference that there may have been abuses in his administration’s war on drugs. The president said he would not interfere in the investigation and if there would be charges filed against the policemen. Kian delos Santos was but ONE of the many victims of Duterte’s war on drugs that has denied victims of their basic human rights. The UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, of which the Philippines is a signatory, stipulates: “Article 7. All are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to equal protection of the law. All are entitled to equal protection against any discrimination in violation of this Declaration and against any incitement to such
discrimination. Article 8. Everyone has the right to an effective remedy by the competent national tribunals for acts violating the fundamental rights granted him by the constitution or by law. Article 9. No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile. Article 10. Everyone is entitled in full equality to a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal, in the determination of his rights and obligations and of any criminal charge against him. Article 11. (1) Everyone charged with a penal offence has the right to be presumed innocent until proved guilty according to law in a public trial at which he has had all the guarantees necessary for his defence. (2) No one shall be held guilty of any penal offence on account of any act or omission which did not constitute a penal offence, under national or international law, at the time when it was committed. Nor shall a heavier penalty be imposed than the one that was applicable at the time the penal offence was committed.” The rich, the powerful, the well-connected were accorded these rights. The poor, powerless people like Kian were robbed of it. I would like to share with you excerpts from a powerful essay written by a Filipino Jesuit priest, Fr. Joel E. Tabora, SJ, who, at 17, made the life-changing decision to serve God by being a priest: The war on drugs must be fought. The drug menace is international evil, driven by powerful forces of evil. This is still the case. It has for too long victimized our people with impunity. But the war on drugs is fought ultimately because those forces of evil disrespect human lives. They are evil because they destroy human lives, human futures and human culture particularly in the Philippines. For cheap money, they bring their victims to chemically-induced highs, but cook and extinguish their brains till little is left of the human being. In this way, they destroy whole families and whole
communities. They attack the entire nation. The President has declared that the Philippines, corrupted by these drugs in all levels of government, local and national, and even in its security and its law enforcement agencies, is a narcotic state. Push back is needed. But not in the way it is being done. If the war on drugs is fought out of respect for human life, it must be guided by respect for human life. The President must be the first to cry out for this because that is why he is fighting the war in the first place, out of his love for the country, and especially out of his love for the poor. Where security and police forces are already flawed because of their vulnerability to corruption and disrespect for human life, even more care must be taken to lead them on the straight path, to direct them to destroy the enemy, and not the victims of the enemy. Certainly, the President must rally his forces to win the war and to legitimately defend their lives against the onslaughts of the enemy. At the same time, he must be keen not to encourage the dark culture of death against which he is fighting his war in the first place. High numbers of people killed dahil nanlaban — because they resisted — do not indicate the war on drugs being won. Where the President himself was shocked at the extent of the use of drugs in this country and its corruptive effects, it may be helpful for him not only to declare that we are now a narcotic state but to make the nation aware of who exactly the big players are and where exactly the big distribution centers are located. He may wish to explain the operations of security forces against a strategy of winning against strategic targets. He may wish to tell us that if the war on drugs was not won within six months, where the nation now is in its strategy of winning this war. He may wish to help us understand how he measures his successes, or even his failures. He may acknowledge that since his war on drugs may groups in civil society and in faith-based communities are contribut-
ing to the war on drugs through personal and communal efforts at battling illegal drugs and helping their hapless victims. He also may wish to state unequivocally that the killing of a Kian at seventeen does not advance the war on drugs. It debases it. Not too long ago, human rights lawyers associated with the Center Against Illegal Drugs (CAID) of the Ateneo de Davao University conducted a three-day seminar in Samal for law enforcers from Mindanao on human-rights-based law enforcement. The intervention was very well received by the law enforcers. For many of them, it was the first time they had [been] given the opportunity to reflect systematically on their responsibilities as law enforcers in the protection of human rights. Perhaps something like this may be done in other parts of the country in order that our security forces gain personal insight into their responsibility to protect and not destroy, nor even to instrumentalize, human life. The war on drugs is a battle for human life, for human dignity and the integrity of human society in the Philippine context. The enemy of the war on drugs is not human rights. The enemy of the war on drugs is thinking a President will be pleased with large numbers of chalkedup deaths “dahil nanlaban” that have no demonstrated strategic value in winning the war; or it is the Commander in Chief giving the troops the impression that the murder of such as Kian at seventeen is defensible in the context of a narcotic state. The death of Kian is not defensible. He was only seventeen. Think of all the possibilities killed. Think of his goodness extinguished. Think of his bereaved family, friends and nation. #JusticeForKian! *** 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
A year after losing arbitration, China wins control of South China Sea
Commentary
FRANK CHING A YEAR after China lost an arbitration case brought against it by the Philippines over disputed territories in the South China Sea, Beijing has emerged the victor in real terms as it flouted the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s ruling favoring Manila’s arguments based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos). And then the Philippines, under President Rodrigo Duterte, made an about-turn, adopting a policy of cooperation with China. Meanwhile, Vietnam, another country with territorial claims in the South China Sea, has bowed to China’s superior might after threats from Beijing, and ceased oil exploration activities in an area within its exclusive economic zone.
Little wonder, then, that last month, a year after the arbitration case, a spokesman of China’s foreign ministry, Geng Shuang, declared: “With the concerted efforts of China, the Philippines and other Asean countries, the situation in the South China Sea has stabilized and taken on a good trend.” In other words, flouting international law works. With little external support, the small countries of Southeast Asia have little choice but to make the best of a bad situation. China wants to keep it that way. The week before Asean opened its annual meetings, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged Asean members to unite against “nonregional forces”—rather like the fox telling chickens not to let anyone else into the henhouse. The identity of these outside forces was clear to all. On August 7, the US, Japan and Australia held a ministerial meeting of the
Trilateral Strategic Dialogue and issued a joint statement. There was a paragraph on the South China Sea. “The ministers called on China and the Philippines to abide by the arbitral tribunal’s 2016 Award in the Philippines-China arbitration, as it is final and legally binding on both parties,” the statement said. Responding to the announcement that China and Asean had reached agreement on a framework Code of Conduct on the South China Sea, the statement “urged Asean member states and China to ensure that the COC be finalized in a timely manner, and that it be legally binding, meaningful, effective and consistent with international law.” China did not appreciate such unsolicited advice. Wang Yi said some countries “outside the South China Sea are still dwelling on the past and turning a blind eye to positive changes of
the situation.” Officially, Beijing espouses a policy of resolving problems through dialogue and negotiations. But the reality of its military power is ever present. China claims almost the entire South China Sea. Thus, Duterte disclosed in May that President Xi Jinping had told him that if the Philippines tried to drill for oil in an area within Manila’s exclusive economic zone, China would declare war. In June, after Vietnam granted the Spanish energy firm Repsol permission to drill for gas within its exclusive economic zone, China issued repeated warnings. Finally, Vietnam’s ambassador to China was told that, unless the drilling stopped, China would take military action. Hanoi backed down. This month, Asean marked its 50th anniversary during its annual series of meetings, hosted this year by Manila. A statement
was issued after a meeting of its 10 foreign ministers. As in previous years, the South China Sea was discussed but, this time, the statement was cautiously worded and did not mention China by name. But it did take note of “the concerns expressed by some Ministers on the land reclamations and activities in the area, which have eroded trust and confidence, increased tensions and may undermine peace, security and stability in the region.” Chinese Foreign Minister Wang found comfort in the fact that the section on the South China Sea this year was “much shorter than that of the past” and did not mention China. He also declared that China had ceased its reclamation activities in 2015. This was rebutted by the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington-based think tank. “China’s
own reclamation work did not end in mid-2015 with the completion of its artificial islands in the Spratlys,” it said while releasing recent photographs. “Beijing continues to reclaim land farther north, in the Paracel islands.” One person who believes that China had stopped reclamation is the Philippine foreign secretary, Alan Peter Cayetano. He had lobbied against referring to land reclamation in the Asean foreign ministers’ statement because the Chinese “are not claiming land anymore.” Evidently, however, his Asean associates weren’t as trusting and thus land reclamation was again cited. So, ironically, despite losing in the arbitral tribunal, China has won effective control of the South China Sea. Unless the US, Japan, Australia and others are willing to go beyond issuing pious statements, China has shown that it pays to defy international law. (ManilaTimes.net)
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.
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Dateline PhiliPPines
LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 23-25, 2017
A
Dateline PhiliPPines
Philippine, Chinese coast guards hold maritime exercises
Coast guard men from Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the U.S. and the Philippines gather at the PCG headquarters in Port Area, Manila for the opening of the Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training exercises on Monday, Aug. 21. Philstar.com photo by Edd Gumban
by EvElyn
Macairan
Philstar.com
MANILA - Despite China’s creeping occupation of land features within Philippine waters, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has embarked on a joint maritime law enforcement operation with its Chinese counterpart in accordance with President Rodrigo Duterte’s instructions. PCG spokesman Commander Armand Balilo said that since President Duterte’s visit to China last year, the PCG has established better rapport with the Chinese Coast Guard, while maintaining good relations with the United States Coast Guard (USCG). “The Philippine Coast Guard has received guidance from the President to cooperate and forge an agreement with the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG), so we have clear cut guidelines from the President,” Balilo said. “Our actions are aligned with the guidance of President Duterte.” Aside from a series of meetings with the CCG, the PCG sent 20 of its officers to China last May for a two-week law enforcement training. Also in the works is a visit of a CCG ship to the Philippines possibly next month. Balilo said improving relationship with China is in the best interest of the PCG as it would enhance the skills of its personnel in combatting sea piracy, terrorism and illegal drugs — the problems Duterte wants immediately addressed. The PCG is also currently collaborating with the USCG and with the coast guards of six other member-countries of the Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training (SEACAT) exercise. SEACAT, an annual multilat-
eral maritime security information sharing exercise, began on Monday, Aug. 21 and would run for two weeks. This is the first time the PCG is hosting SEACAT. The other SEACAT member-countries are Brunei, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Sri Lanka. He said that since the PCG is a civilian agency, it could hold maritime exercises with other countries even if there is a raging dispute over territories in the region. “This is the beauty of the PCG, we would make exercises or training with all countries that concern law enforcement, which is the function of the PCG. As for the territorial dispute, we leave it to the Department of Foreign Affairs,” Balilo said. “As far as the PCG is concerned, we would foster one law enforcement interoperability doctrine wherein everyone may participate, including the U.S. and China. We would have one framework because what we are talking about here is drugs and terrorism,” he added. One of the highlights of the exercise is the conduct of maritime interdiction operation or visit, board and search and seizure workshop to be conducted by the USCG Law Enforcement Detachment. To join the workshop are representatives from the PCG, Philippine Navy, Indonesian Coast Guard, Indonesian Navy, Sri Lanka Navy, Royal Thai Navy and Thai Maritime Law Enforcement Coordinating Center. The PCG would be utilizing three of its ships — the BRP Corregidor, BRP Davao del Norte and BRP Capones — for the boarding exercise. Balilo said the PCG hopes to get new insights from the USCG-
initiated exercises, especially on dealing with rules of engagement issue. He cited the May 9, 2013 Balintang Channel incident wherein a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources boat, manned by PCG personnel, chased a Taiwanese fishing boat found poaching in Philippine waters. The PCG fired warning shots but accidentally hit and killed a Taiwanese national on the boat. Balilo said the USCG may also introduce force protocol, or the allowable force in an engagement, to avoid violation of human rights. “There would also be a lecture on vessel on maritime law enforcement. So our men, when they conduct vessel boarding procedure, would be aware of the laws that they need to implement not only within our territorial waters, but even when they are in the continuous zone and the exclusive economic zone. So we would learn from them about what is acceptable in the international community.” Earlier, Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio said China — contrary to its commitment — was slowly occupying Sandy Cay in the West Philippine Sea. The new geological feature Asian Ad is some CBHQ-13659-01 2.5 nauticalCRAmiles off Pag-asa Island.
PNP wants P900-M for ‘Tokhang 2’ by Paolo
roMEro and cEcillE SuErtE FEliPE Philstar.com
MANILA - The Philippine National Police (PNP) is asking for P900 million to fund next year’s Oplan Double Barrel Reloaded— the Duterte administration’s brutal anti-drug campaign that was recently highlighted by the killing of 17-year-old Kian delos Santos in Caloocan City. Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto warned the PNP’s request to approve P900 million for “Tokhang II” in 2018 may be put on hold if it does not satisfactorily resolve the killing of the young boy, a Grade 11 student, in last week’s anti-illegal drugs operations. “Tokhang” is a contraction of Cebuano word “toktok” or knock and “hangyo” or to make a request. The Oplan supposedly would have policemen knocking on doors and appealing to drug pushers and users to mend their ways. However, it has recently become a slang term referring to extrajudicial killing or summary execution. Recto said the various investigations and review of the incident “will be pursued on many fronts,” including during the deliberations of the proposed P3.7-trillion national budget for 2018. “Kian’s life was ended so dastardly that it has united the nation in anger and grief. This national MM.pdf 1 only 6/22/17 10:14 AM pain can be salved by the truth,” the senator stressed.
THIS IS WHERE HE DIED. The Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) has found the element of treachery in the death of 17-year-old Kian de los Santos at the hands of Caloocan City policemen, as anti-crime advocates called for an independent probe into the alleged extrajudicial killing. Chief Public Attorney Persida Rueda-Acosta said forensic experts have conducted an initial autopsy and concluded that there was “intentional killing.” ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez
He said the budget hearings in the House of Representatives and in the Senate would provide an opportunity for oversight and answer the question as to sources of funds for the nationwide anti-drug campaign. “Where does the PNP get its financial ammo for the conduct of ‘tokhang’ of both the legal –yong katok lang na may pakiusap (the knocking that comes with an appeal) – and the lethal kind, yung may putok na may patay (the burst of gunfire that leads to deaths),” Recto said. For him, Congress must not issue a blank check for Oplan Double Barrel Reloaded. “Before such campaign is reloaded with funds, questions as to how it will be implemented must first be asked by the institution
which will approve that request,” he said. The PNP will also get a P20billion increase in its budget next year, to P131.5 billion, from P111.8 billion this year. A report of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency said at least 465 minors or an average of one child per day were rescued in the government’s anti-drug operations from July 1, 2016 to Aug. 16 this year. It is not clear if the rescued minors were sent to rehabilitation centers, although standard procedure requires policemen to send them to the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Official police reports said a total of 3,577 persons were killed and 101,061 arrested since the campaign started. n
At Russia, with love... PAGE A1 view the Russians positively. “On balance, Russia’s international image is more negative than positive. Critical opinions of Russia are particularly widespread in the United States and Europe, while views are more mixed in the Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America,” Margaret Vice of Pew Research said. The results of the survey come as President Rodrigo Duterte pursues an independent foreign policy that has seen the Philippines pursue better ties with Moscow and Beijing. The pivot in Manila’s foreign policy also resulted in a frosty relationship with its traditional ally, the US, during the time of former US President Barack Obama. The two countries’ relationship has somehow stabilized under the current American leader, Donald Trump. Duterte likes Putin Duterte has also not hidden his admiration for the Russian president, Vladimir Putin. In May, Duterte went on a visit to Moscow though it was cut short by the siege of Marawi, a southern Philippine city where security forces are still engaged in a monthslong combat with the Maute Group, a so-called Islamic Stateinspired band of fighters. Duterte was able to briefly meet with his Russian counterpart before he departed for Manila. The Philippines, Vietnam, Tanzania and Greece are the countries where half or more of the population are positive about Putin’s international performance, the survey revealed. “In other nations, many do not express any view of him: Roughly one-third or more in India, Indonesia, Ghana, Senegal, South Africa and Argentina do not share an opinion on the Russian leader,” Vice said. A majority of Filipinos (59 percent to 21 percent) as well as of people Tunisia, Lebanon and Vietnam think that Russia respects civil liberties, in contrast to the 30 percent globally who
believe that Moscow is respectful of the personal freedoms of its people. Only China got a lower median at 25 percent. Sixty percent of those surveyed think that France adheres to this democratic principle while 54 percent say so for the U.S. Pinoys trust Putin Putin also has the trust of a majority of Filipinos, with 54 percent saying they believe that the Russian leader would do the right thing in world affairs. Putin also has the trust of 79 percent of Vietnamese, 50 percent of Greeks and 51 percent of Tanzanians. Pew however noted: “Although confidence in Putin’s handling of foreign affairs is generally low, in many countries he is more trusted than American President Donald Trump.” In the Philippines, Trump is trusted more than Putin. Sixtynine percent of Filipinos has confidence in the Russian leader while 54 percent say so for Putin. Filipinos also see Russia benevolently, with only 26 percent in the country thinking that Moscow’s power and influence pose a major threat to the Philippines. “Compared with other global threats such as ISIS or climate change, most people around the globe express relatively muted concerns about Russia’s power and influence,” said Pew Research. However, concerns about Russian influence vary depending on one’s educational level in the Philippines. “There is a wider education gap in the same direction in the Philippines (those with more education are 12 percentage points more likely to see Russia as a threat),” it said. Filipinos have been bucking global trends in opinion. In July, it was reported as the only country with a positive view of North Korea in the Asia Pacific region. Pew Research Center conducted the survey among 40,951 respondents in 37 countries outside of Russia from Feb. 16 to May 8, 2017. n
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LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 23-25, 2017
BUSINESSJ& COMMUNITY OURNAL
B1
SSS eyes private sector to cover risks on fund by MARY
GRACE Philstar.com
PADIN
MANILA — State-run Social Security System (SSS) is planning to tap a consortium of private insurance firms to insure some of the pension fund’s risks amid rising expenditure. In an interview, SSS president and chief executive officer Emmanuel Dooc said the agency is now seeking the help of the private sector to cover some of the state fund’s risks after the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) declined to provide help. “They (the GSIS) answered us formally and they declined. It’s not within their mandate to cover private assets and nongovernment employees or
workers,” Dooc said. “The plan B will be to go to the private sector,” he added. However, in tapping the private sector, Dooc said the concern would be whether there are players capable or covering the SSS’ risks, and which of its liabilities they are willing to cover. “My concern is, right now, which among our risks are they willing to cover, because we
u PAGE B6
Retailers feel pinch of online shopping by IRIS
GONZALES Philstar.com
MANILA - The country’s retailers are now feeling the pinch of heightened competition from the once ignored, but now rapidly growing online shopping business, industry players told The Star. Samie Lim, chairman emeritus of the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), said many of their members are losing some customers to online shopping, which has become a craze among consumers because of convenience and worsening traffic in Metro Manila. Among the popular online retail sites in the country are Zalora, Lazada and Weemall. “Definitely, with online we’re affected. The numbers are not yet big now but obviously it is growing very fast,” Lim said in a recent interview. The online retail market now
Philippines eyes $3.8 B loan from ADB
accounts for about five to six percent of the total retail market from just one to two percent a few years ago, Lim said. To cope with the situation, brick and mortar retailers are stepping up their game by launching promotions and season sales. The PRA, the national organization of all retailers in the country, is also in talks with mall operators to help retailers cope with the situation. “Retailers are saying their biggest expense is rent which is why others are just going online so we should talk to the mall operators to bring down the rent,” Lim said. He said if traditional retailers don’t do anything about it, online sellers may soon eat a huge chunk of the market. The tipping point may be in five years,” Lim said. Philippine Chamber of Com-
u PAGE B6
by MARY
GRACE Philstar.com
PADIN
MANILA - The Philippines may be able to tap $3.8 billion in loans from the Asian Development Bank in the next three years to help fund the priority programs of the Duterte administration, the Department of Finance (DOF) said over the weekend. According to a report by the DOF’s International Finance Group (IFG), the proposed lending program of the ADB to the Philippines under its Country Operations Business Plan (COBP) from 2018 to 2022,
amounted to $3.8 billion which will cover three priority areas including infrastructure, social services and good governance. Of the proposed amount, $1.8 billion may be used as loans to finance infrastructure development; $1.5 billion for education and skills development, access to finance, expanded social protection and employment opportunities for the youth; and $500 million for programs on good governance and finance. “Program loans under the proposed lending pipeline make up 39 percent of the COBP, while project loans account for 61
percent,” the IFG said in its report to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III. The IFG said projects covered by the COBP for 2018 to 2020 include the Central Spine Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) Project and the Mindanao River Basin Flood Control Project, among others. It also said the ADB has committed to design a $300 million package covering critical transportation infrastructure initiatives that can help ease traffic in Metro Manila. This initiative is being eyed for a co-financing arrangement with other multilateral institu-
u PAGE B6
‘Overheating quite distant’ – Guinigundo primary factor as private investment slowed. Year to date, gross domestic product (GDP) growth THE second quarter’s 6.5 per- was 6.4 percent, again down cent growth result is proof that from 7 percent last year and just the Philippine economy isn’t under the government’s 6.5-7.5 headed for a meltdown, an of- percent target for 2017. ficial of the Bangko Sentral ng “Such growth of 6.5 percent Pilipinas (BSP) said. in the context of price stability The April-June figure, slightly is very much consistent with our higher than the 6.4 percent re- potential output and that should corded during the first three convince us that overheating is months of the year, fell within ex- quite distant at this point,” cenpectations but was slower com- tral bank Deputy Governor Diwa pared to the 7.1 percent posted a Guinigundo said. year earlier. The BSP, he added, has its Increased government spend- “ears … firmly on the ground so ing was said to have been a we could act pre-emptively.” by MAYVELIN
U. CARABALLO ManilaTimes.net
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Dec 3 to 14, 2017
Spiritual Director: Rev. Fr. Alvin Cachola
Singapore based DBS bank in June said it was seeing early signs of overheating, making the case for monetary policy tightening in the coming months. “The Philippine economy is displaying early signs of overheating,” DBS had said in a report, citing nearly 7 percent BSP Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo GDP growth in 2016, above 3 percent headline infla- in 2016. tion since February 2017, very Overheating occurs when exstrong investment growth, and tended economic growth leads more than 20 percent expansion to higher inflation and manufacin gross fixed capital formation u PAGE B3
Havan�, Cub� May 22 to 29, 2018
May 22, 2018 (Tuesday - Day 1) Los Angeles to Havana, Cuba Depart from LAX to Havana, Cuba. Upon arrival in Havana, meet our guide and transfer to the hotel for dinner. May 23, 2018 (Wednesday - Day 2) Havana, Cuba Our day will begin with mass at the Cathedral of Havana located in the center of Old Havana. After On board meals are served mass, proceed for a city tour of Old Havana with an experienced local tour guide. The tour will take 4 DEC-Day 2 - (Mon) - Arrive at Ben Gurion airport Tel-Aviv/Tiberias place on foot and you will visit all the squares of Old Havana. Take in the astonishing beauty of the After you have finished Immigration, collect Luggage then Meet our guide and driver. Transfer to Tiberias , Dinner /overnight Gai Beach Hotel historical buildings, sculptures, and monuments. After lunch you will have free time to bargain at the 5 DEC-Day 3 - (Tues) Cesarea /Haifa San Jose Craft Market. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 3 DEC-Day 1 - (Sun) LAX/TLV
There was a certain man in Caesarea” Drive north to the sparkling port city of Haifa, viewing Caesarea en route, the city built by Herod. In Haifa, we will ascend Mt. Carmel; home of the two prophets Elijah and Elisha, Visit the Stella Maris Church celebrate Holy Mass in the main Altar, after enjoy the panoramic view of the Mediterranean, continue to Tiberias for dinner and overnight. Gai Beach Hotel (BB,D)
May 24, 2018 (Thursday – Day 3) Havana, Cuba This morning, we will visit the Convent and Church of Our Lady of Bethlehem. This religious complex is the most extensive of those surviving in Old Havana. Here you will attend mass. After mass, you will meet with the 6 DEC-Day 4 - (Wed) - Tiberias/ Cana/ Nazareth Holy Eucharist at the Church of annunciation “And Mary said, Behold I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your nuns and assist with projects of the day. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the evening you will assist word” We head to Cana of Galilee, where Our Lord performed the first miracle – changing water into wine at the wedding feast. Here, we’ll a Cuban cultural demonstration. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) invite couples to renew their marriage vows. Continue to Nazareth, Celebrate Holy Eucharist at the Church of Annunciation, visit St Joseph workshop. We return to Gai Beach Hotel for our dinner and overnight. (BB/D)
07 Dec-Day 5 - (Thurs) Mt Tabor/Mt Beatitude/Capernum/ Sea of Galilee/Tabgha
We drive to Mount Tabor, celebrate Holy Eucharist at the church of Transfiguration, Visit Mt. of Beatitudes the site of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus preached to the people. enjoy a scenic boat ride across the Sea of Galilee to Capernaum, home of Our Lord during his ministry. After visiting the Synagogue where he taught, proceed to Tabgha, the site of the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Gai Beach Hotel for our dinner and overnight. (BB/D)
May 25, 2018 (Friday – Day 4) Havana, Cuba You will have mass at the Convent and Church of Our Lady of Bethlehem. After mass, you will continue to assist the nuns. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. This evening in Havana, we will plan an exciting tour of the historical complex of Castillo del and La Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana. If the timing and weather conditions permitted, you will witness the special nightly cannon at the fortress. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
08 DEC-Day 6 - (FRI)-Jordan valley/Jericho/Bethany/Jerusalem
May 26, 2018 (Saturday – Day 5) Havana, Cuba Start the morning off with mass at a local church in Havana. After, you will visit the Abel Santamaria School for the blind, located on the grounds of an old military base. The school aims to integrate the children into mainstream schools as soon as the child is ready through an outreach program which continues to support children at their secondary schools. You will spend time meeting the students 09 DEC-Day 7 - (Sat) - Jerusalem (old City) - Via Dolorosa and teachers. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Cintio Vitier Community Project Center, where arts Holy Sepulcher Church “And he bearing his cross went forth into a place of a skull, which was called in Hebrew Golgotha” Enter the old city of Jerusalem, Sing a hymn in the Church of St Anne and view the pool of Bethesda. Visit the Chapel of Flagellation, Programs of all types including painting, ceramic and dance hosted. You will learn about this community project and hear from Lithostrotos, where the soldiers played the Game of Kings, and Arch of the “Ecce Homo”. Follow the Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross) to the the director of the program, Pedro Pulido. End your day with a panoramic drive through Modern Havana riding in old classic cars holiest shrine in Christendom, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, visit Golgotha and the tomb of Our Lord. This afternoon drive to Mount Zion, from the 1950’s. Be sure to have your camera ready for this unique experience. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) Drive the Jordan Valley to Jericho, the oldest inhabited city in the world. View the Mount of temptation, where Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the desert. Visit the ancient ruins of the wall. Drive through Wadi Welt to view St George’s Monastery. Continue to Bethany celebrate Holy Eucharist, and then visit the tomb of Lazarus. Arrive in Mount Scopus; enjoy the first view of Jerusalem. Dinner and overnight at Notre DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB,D)
to visit the upper room, revered as the site of the last supper. Then survey the Dormition Abbey’s, St. Peter in Gallicantu, where Peter denied Jesus three times. Dinner and overnight at NOTRE DAME Vatican Hotel (BB.D)
10 DEC-Day 8 - (SUN) - Mount of Olives/Gethesemane/Bethlehem/New City
Holy Eucharist celebration at the Church of all nations Main altar Arrive at the Mount of Olives and enjoy the beautiful view of Jerusalem. Visit the Chapel of Ascension, Pater Noster Church and the Dominus Flevit Church”God wept “& walk the Palm Sunday road to the Garden of Gethesemane and the Church of all Nations. This Afternoon drive to Bethlehem, a city whose name the whole world recognizes ,visit the Church of Nativity, the manger, Church of St Catherine, The Grotto of St Jerome, and the shepherds fields. Dinner and overnight at NOTRE DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB ,D).
May 27, 2018 (Sunday – Day 6) Havana – Las Terrazas – Vinales Valley Start the morning off with mass at a local church in Havana. Then you will be transferred to Las Terrazas for a tour of the community. Visit the neighborhoods, their schools, artists and community projects in the area. You will then continue to Vinales. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for check in and rest. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
May 28, 2018 (Monday – Day 7) Vinales Valley Start the morning off with mass at a local church in Vinales. Then you will have a sightseeing Visit the Western Wall , the only part of the Herodian temple still standing and the most sacred place in the world for Jews. We drive to Dead tour. There is an opportunity to visit a Tobacco Farm and learn how to expertly roll a cigar. You will Sea, the lowest spot on earth. Visit Qumran; see the caves where the Dead Sea scrolls were discovered. Continue to Masada, visit Herod’s also have the chance to visit an interesting site called the Prehistoric Wall and to take a Boat Ride fortress and the Jew’s last stronghold against the Roman. Return to Jerusalem Overnight Notre Dame Vatican Hotel (BB,D) through underground caves known as The Indian Caves. Then visit Finca Agroecolgica El Paraiso 12 DEC-Day10 - (TUE) Jerusalem New City where you will have lunch. After you will visit the gardens with the breath-taking views. Return to the hotel where you will have Return to the new City, Including the Temple Model to see a scale model of Jerusalem as it was during the time of Jesus. Here we will have a dinner. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 11 DEC-Day 9 - ( MON) - Jerusalem/Dead Sea/Qumran/Masada
better understanding between old and New Jerusalem. Next to Ein Karem, birthplace of St John the Baptist, visit the Visitation church where Mary proclaimed her famous “Magnificat Overnight NOTRE DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB,D)
13 Dec-Day 11 - (WED) Jerusalem/TLV/LAX
Breakfast rest of the morning Free time early PM dinner has to check out from the hotel, around 8:30 PM flight from TLV/ LAX in the 13 Dec flight depart TLV at 1:00 Am Dec 14,2017 ( end of Service )
May 29, 2018 (Tuesday – Day 8) Vinales – Havana – Los Angeles Today, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home as your trip comes to an end. (Meal: Breakfast)
B AUGUST 23-25, 2017 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
Business news
Pernia trumpets Philippines effort in enhancing ease of doing business by Czeriza
ValenCia
Philstar.com
MANILA - The Philippines is enhancing the ease of doing business through the streamlining of processes and strengthening of the integrity of public institutions, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia told the business community in Singapore during the recent Philippine Economic Briefing. “We are enhancing the ease of doing business by streamlining processes in line agencies. We are strengthening integrity of our public institutions, such as through freedom of information beginning with the executive branch, and other anti-corruption initiatives,” he said in a statement. He added the government is now approving infrastructure projects at a faster rate in keeping with its goal to usher in the so-called golden age of infrastructure in the country. “The government is now much faster in approving big-
What’s New Arlene Al-os, CPA, MBA FORM W-2 and Form 1099R should be available to you by January 31st and corrected versions should be available by end of February. What you need to do if any of these Forms are not available to you: • Call the IRS at 1-800-8291040 for help. Make sure to have the following information handy as you call: 1) Name, address, phone number, and social security number, 2) Employer ‘s name, address, phone number, and 3)Employer identification number (EIN) • Employer will be contacted by the IRS and request the Forms W-2 and 1099-R for you. Your employer will receive a letter from the IRS to provide information within 10-days, a reminder of responsibility to provide correct Form W-2 subject to penalties for failure to do so. • The IRS will also send you a Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statements, or Form
ticket infrastructure projects, having rationalized certain procedures. All of these result in an environment that is more welcoming to business,” said Pernia, noting the bulk of infrastructure projects in the pipeline are aimed at decongesting urban areas and attracting more investments in the provinces. In his presentation, Pernia said the country is on track to meeting the growth target range of 6.5 to 7.5 percent this year. In the medium term, the economy will be driven by strong consumer confidence, stable inflation, increased government spending, increased public and private investment and growth in exports. Rice prices are also expected to be lowered through the liberalization of rice trade. Purchasing power of consumers are also expected to get a boost with the passage of the first package of the tax reform which provides for the lowering of income tax and identifies offsetting measures. This demand is expected to be
BSP peso movement in line with growth goal
by MayVelin
U. Caraballo ManilaTimes.net
Secretary Ernesto Pernia
met by robust construction activity, resurgence of the manufacturing sector, bright prospects in the tourism sector and, increased wholesale and retail trade. Pernia said the country is also well-positioned against downside risks to growth, both internal and external. External risks include the slower than expected growth in the US and UK inward looking policies and extended period of policy uncertainties and geo-
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What to do if you received incorrect forms W-2 and 1099R 1099-R, Distributions from Pensions, Annuities, Retirement or Profit-Sharing Plans, IRAs, Insurance Contracts, or Form 4852, with instruction letter for you. • Use Form 4852: 1) to complete your tax return if upon filing Form W-2 and Form 1099-R are not available, 2) Estimate the amount of wages earned, payments received, and taxes withheld, and 3) If expecting a refund, expect delays in processing refund while the IRS verify the information provided. • Keep Form 4852 to protect your social security benefits. After September 30 following the date shown in line 4 of Form 4852, contact the social security office to verify wages reported by your employer by: 1) visiting your local SSA Office, 2) visiting the online account https://www. ssa.gov/myaccount/, 3) calling toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 and for the deaf or hard of hearing, call our TTY number, 1-800-3250778. • File an amended income tax
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return by filing Form 1040X if you received Forms W-2 or Form 1099 after filing, and there are discrepancies from the information reported in your return. Disclaimer: Any accounting, business or tax advice contained in this communication is neither intended as a thorough, in-depth analysis of specific issues, nor a substitute for a formal opinion, nor is it sufficient to avoid tax-related penalties. n *** Disclaimer: Any accounting, business or tax advice contained in this communication is neither intended as a thorough, in-depth analysis of specific issues, nor a substitute for a formal opinion, nor is it sufficient to avoid tax-related penalties. *** Al-os & Associates Accountancy Corporation provides accounting and tax services to individuals, corporations, LLCs and business entities. The Firm has a niche in defending taxpayers audited by the IRS and other governmental agencies. (Advertising Supplement)
THE peso’s recent movements are consistent with monetary policies aimed at fostering sustained economic growth, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said. “Pursuing a flexible and adaptive exchange rate policy enables the BSP to keep its interest rate policy settings squarely focused on achieving the inflation target while dampening consumption and supporting a more investment- and exportled growth that the economy needs to sustain its strong momentum over the long haul,” central bank Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. in said a message to reporters on Monday, August 21. The peso fell to near 11-year lows last week, trading in P51 to the dollar territory, due to factors such as the prospect of war on the Korean peninsula. It lost 14 centavos on Friday,
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA A CIRCLE is perhaps the perfect geometric structure there is. Although some would claim the triangle or a square to be better structures because of their stable nature, the circle and all its derivatives — the orb, the sphere, the globe and every structure on earth and in the universe with a core, circumference and radii emanating from the core — can teach and even help us to understand much about nature, human life and its cycles and seasons. From the micro to the macro levels, every creative urge in every level, in the intellectual and the physical realms, begins as a thought and if tenaciously pursued and fleshed out by one’s strength of will, proceeds from concept to completion as a circle. Even in the mundane reality of living an ordinary life from day to day, circles and cycles mark the patterns of our lives. Note nature’s seasons and cycles of birth and death, of sleep and wakefulness, of sunrise and sunset, of the waxing and waning of
August 18, to close at P51.49:$1, its weakest since settling at P51.60:$1 on August 24, 2006. Several analysts say it could fall to the P52:$1 level before the end of the year. Some commentators, Espenilla noted, are judging the state of the Philippine economy merely on the basis of the peso’s depreciation. “In particular, the peso is compared in [an]unfavorable light against ‘stronger’ regional currencies. That’s a rather simplistic way to look at it,” he said. The better way to gauge the economy is to evaluate its progress toward delivering things that ultimately matter to the people, the Bangko Sentral chief claimed, such as low inflation, growth and jobs. Economies, Espenilla pointed out, have their own unique challenges that require policies suiting circumstances and needs. He said the Philippines was doing the correct thing in priori-
tizing investment-led economic growth, adding that allowing the peso to gradually depreciate to a more appropriate level was fully consistent with that strategy. “However, the BSP is very mindful that such adjustment may create market uncertainty if not well explained. So we communicate and explain,” he added. Espenilla also said that monetary authorities would go after speculators wanting to take advantage of the situation. “The BSP will not tolerate such speculative behavior and stands ready to use its very ample international reserves and deploy its full policy and regulatory arsenal if necessary,” he said. In any case, the peso has now sufficiently adjusted and can be expected to regain relative stability going forward, he added. “This soft landing is reinforced by effective discipline in fiscal management and a well-designed and well-executed public investment program,” Espenilla said.n
Circles, cycles and movement
“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” the moon and of the quarter mil– Albert Einstein lion year rotation of the solar system around the core of our home galaxy, the Milky Way and in the grandest of levels, the movement of a nearly infinite number of galaxies in the universe, the edge of which only the Creator knows. On the minutest level, the astounding movement of electrons around a nucleus and the wondrous flow of the human bloodstream from and to the heart are cyclical. As science has found out, blockages, either man-made or natural to the flow or movement in the processes existing in nature at all levels, can create anomalies, abnormalities and mutations, resulting in pain and illnesses in the human body and if uncorrected, result in diseases, debilitation and ultimately, death. This presents a strong argument for regular exercise and movement, which pumps the movement of blood flow down to the capillaries and strengthens the muscles of the heart.
Nature moves in cycles. While the earth’s atmospheric cloak adheres to the surface because of the gravitational pull of the earth’s mass, the hydrologic cycle will continue to maintain our seas and give us rain to sustain all planetary life — that is, for the time being —unless something unforeseen and catastrophic upsets and upends this delicate homeostatic-like balance. In a way, the life of our living, breathing planet is reflective of human life itself. “Life,” according to Einstein, “is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” And on that point, we are finding out he is absolutely right. n *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@asianjournalinc.com
BUSINESS NEWS
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Senior with $60K in credit card debt wants relief Chapter 7 trustee stipulates to dismiss adversary against client before trial
CLIENT is 70. She is a widow, her beloved husband having passed away 5 years ago at 65. She owns a house with a reverse mortgage of half a million. She took the reverse mortgage 5 years ago when her husband died. The mortgage accumulates at the rate of $2K a month or $24K a year. You can keep the balance from increasing if you pay the interest portion only every month. Client did not pay any mortgage payment for the last 5 years so the reverse mortgage balance has ballooned to $500K. Client can live in the house until she dies even if she hasn’t paid any mortgage from the time she took the reverse mortgage until death. So it lets you live in the house until you are gone without having to pay anything but the mortgage balance goes up every month by the amount of mortgage payment due. Of course, it can eat up even a large equity by the passage of time. This works for many seniors since you can’t bring anything with you to heaven when you die, right. You don’t need a house in heaven because Jesus has prepared a mansion for each one of us there. Jesus has said that He will prepare a place for us when we go to heaven. John 14:2-3 “My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go & prepare a place for you, I will come back & take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” So there, that’s pretty nice of Jesus to prepare a place for us when we go to heaven, right? That’s a free house in heaven for us after we die, that’s a great deal! However, client is still alive and kicking and beset with credit card problems of $60K. She pays at least $1500 a month to keep these cards current. What is her income now at 70? Social security gives her $1900. And she has a pension of $200 from a previ-
Debt Relief
ATTY. LAWRENCE YANG
ous employer. Her total income is $2100. She doesn’t have to pay rent or mortgage since she is on a reverse mortgage. Her total living expenses is $1600. So if you add $1500 a month for minimum credit card payments to living expenses without rent or mortgage of $1600, total income needed to meet credit card payments and living expenses is $3100. But her income is only $2100. So she is upside down by $1000. If she discharges the $60K of credit cards, she will free herself of $1500 a month and her $2100 income can easily pay her $1600 of living expenses. Without credit card debt she would still be saving $500 a month! It’s clearly to her benefit to get a Chapter 7 discharge of the $60K credit cards now. However, if the current fair market value of her house is such that her equity is a lot more than $175K, even if she is on a reverse mortgage, she would be better off with a Chapter 13 so as to eliminate any risk of having a problem with a Chapter 7 trustee that would be wanting to sell her house even if her house is on a reverse mortgage. Client’s case needs a novel approach but definitely she needs immediate debt relief from $60K of credit card debt. Client no. 2 is a foreign company that has been supplying a CA Company with merchandise for 8 years on open account. Client gave CA Company a line of credit of $2.0 M for the purchase of their product. CA Company lost a major lawsuit and forced to file for bankruptcy leaving client holding the bag for $300K. Chapter 7 trustee filed an adver-
sary complaint against client for $80K representing a preferential payment by CA Company to client 90 days before CA company filed for bk. Under bankruptcy law, the trustee can get the $80K back from client; unless client can prove that ‘new or contemporaneous value,’ was given by client, for the $80K. This adversary case against client adds insult to injury. Client is already owed $300K by CA Company and here comes the trustee who wants to get the $80K that was paid to client 90 days before CA company filed for BK. It’s like a horror story. This would definitely push N. Korea to let their missiles with miniature nuclear bombs fly off over the Pacific Ocean into the office of the Chapter 7 trustee, wouldn’t it? I was all prepared for the trial this month after giving all client’s evidence to the lawyer of the trustee to prove that client did indeed supply “new or contemporaneous value” to CA Company 90 days before the CA Company filed for BK. But I just received counsel’s advise that trustee was now willing to stipulate to dismiss the adversary complaint against client. That’s good news for client and myself. I certainly hope that the N. Korea situation ends up favorably like my client’s case. I pray cooler heads prevail and the dogs of war are not let loose. If you need debt relief, set an appointment to see me. I will analyze your case personally. “THE LORD IS NEAR TO ALL WHO CALL ON HIM, TO ALL WHO CALL ON HIM IN TRUTH.” PSALM 145:1 ■
*** Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in bankruptcy, business, real estate and civil litigation and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 1000 S. Fremont Ave, Mailstop 58, Building A-1 Suite 1125, Alhambra, CA 91803.
Disclosure of text messages, e-mails and Facebook info of a spouse or significant other may constitute domestic violence DOMESTIC violence is abuse perpetrated against a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant, a girlfriend, a boyfriend, the mother or father of your child, your child. Family Code Section 6211. Abuse is not limited to the actual infliction of physical injury or assault. Family Code, § 6203(b). A court may issue an order enjoining specific acts of “abuse” (§ 6218, subd. (a)), which are defined as, among other things, behavior that could be enjoined under section 6320. (§ 6203, subd. (d).) Section 6320, in turn, permits a court to enjoin a party from engaging in various types of behavior, including “disturbing the peace of the other party.” (§ 6320, subd. (a).) “[T]he plain meaning of the phrase ‘disturbing the peace of the other party’ in section 6320 may be properly understood as conduct that destroys the mental or emotional calm of the other party.” (In re Marriage of Nadkarni (2009) 173 Cal.App.4th 1483, 1497, 93 Cal.Rptr.3d 723 (Nadkarni ).) The phrase includes “destroying the mental or emotional calm of [a former spouse] by accessing, reading and publicly disclosing her confidential e-mails.” (Id. at p. 1498, 93 Cal. Rptr.3d 723.) The expansion of the term “disturbing the peace” to cover accessing, reading, and publicly disclosing electronic communication has profound effect in every divorce and family law case. In Nadkarni, a former wife al-
Barrister’s Corner ATTY. KENNETH URSUA REYES leged that her ex-husband had accessed her private e-mail account while she was away on a business trip, then attached copies of the e-mails to documents filed in proceedings regarding custody of their teenaged children. In re Marriage of Nadkarni (2009) 173 Cal.App.4th 1483, 1497, 93 Cal. Rptr.3d 723. She sought a permanent restraining order, but the trial court denied it without a hearing after finding that the DVPA did not cover situations in which there was no physical harm alleged. The appellate court reversed and remanded the matter to the trial court for a hearing. It held that the definition of abuse under the DVPA is not limited to the infliction of physical injury or assault. Id. at pp. 1498, 1501, 93 Cal.Rptr.3d 723. In Marriage of Evilsizor and Sweeney, husband’s actions in releasing and threatening to release personal data downloaded from wife’s cell phone constituted “disturbing the peace of the other party” and thus “abuse” which warranted restraining order. In re Marriage of Evilsizor and Sweeney (2015) 237 Cal.App.4th 1416 [189 Cal.Rptr.3d 1], reh’g denied
(June 24, 2015), review denied (Sept. 9, 2015) Phrase “disturbing the peace of the other party” in injunction provision of the Domestic Violence Prevention Act (DVPA) includes destroying the mental or emotional calm of a former spouse by accessing, reading and publicly disclosing her confidential e-mails. Cal. Fam. Code § 6320. In re Marriage of Evilsizor and Sweeney (2015) 237 Cal.App.4th 1416 [189 Cal. Rptr.3d 1], reh’g denied (June 24, 2015), review denied (Sept. 9, 2015) Husband’s actions in releasing and threatening to release personal data downloaded from wife’s cell phone constituted “disturbing the peace of the other party” and thus “abuse” which warranted restraining order under the Domestic Violence Prevention Act (DVPA). Cal. Fam. Code §§ 6218(a), 6300, 6320(a). In re Marriage of Evilsizor and Sweeney (2015) 237 Cal.App.4th 1416 [189 Cal. Rptr.3d 1], reh’g denied (June 24, 2015), review denied (Sept. 9, 2015) In Evilsizor, Ms. Evilsizor testified that it had been “incredibly incredibly difficult to deal with” the dissemination of her personal information, stating, “I have sleepless nights. I’m sick to my stomach. My friends are mad at me, embarrassed as if I let him. I didn’t know he was even doing any of this. My parents are upset, you know. Why did I marry him? I didn’t know that things were
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‘Overheating quite distant’...
PAGE B1 t
turers ramp up output, creating excess capacity, in a bid to capitalize on consumer wealth. While second-quarter real GDP growth stood at the lower end of the target range, Guinigundo said it was clearly very sustainable. “Industry, particularly manufacturing, led the growth momentum even as agriculture and services remained robust. Public spending has recovered immensely with great support from consumption and investment,” he noted. He also highlighted that net exports had recovered such that real gross national income (GNI) was now higher than real GDP. Among the major economic sectors, industry recorded the fastest growth at 7.3 percent. Services slowed to 6.1 percent compared with its 8.2 percent
growth a year earlier. Agriculture, meanwhile, rebounded from a 2 percent decline to grow by 6.3 percent. The country’s primary income from the rest of the world grew by 8.6 percent compared with the 6.1 percent growth recorded in the previous year. As a result, GNI posted growth of 6.8 percent during the quarter. “This should also validate our observation that higher economic growth required higher imports, allowed outward investments by residents and prepayments of external obligations that would in time translate into higher productivity, higher exports and still higher investments,” Guinigundo said. “The transitory impact of course is some current account shortfall and peso depreciation,” he added.
A major component of the country’s balance of payments, the current account measures the net transfer of real resources between the domestic economy and the rest of the world. The BSP has forecast a $600million current account deficit for this year, which would reflect for the most part the continuation of a recent trend showing a widening trade deficit. The peso, meanwhile, is at present is trading above P51 to the dollar, weighed down by a war of words between the United States and North Korea. “What is therefore important is that this sustained growth path should allow us to take a longer view of economic and financial developments. From a monetary policy perspective, that gives us greater flexibility to take advantage of our existing monetary space,” Guinigundo said. ■
LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 23-25, 2017
Calendar of Events across
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FACC-SLAA’s “luau” quarterly business & professionals networking mixer in Wilmington, CA The Filipino-American Chamber of Commerce – SouthBay Los Angeles Area (FACC-SLAA) presents a “luau” quarterly business & professionals networking mixer on Thursday, August 24. Come meet other driven Filipino/Fil-Am businesspersons and professionals in a relaxed and casual atmosphere! It will be from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Camino de Guanajuto Restaurant, 208 W. Anaheim St., Unit C, Wilmington, CA 90744. Tickets are free for FACCSLAA members. For non-members, it’s $15 for pre-registration or $20 at the door. For more information on FACC-SLAA, please visit https://www.facebook.com/pg/FilAmChamberOfCommerceSouthBayLAArea/.
SEPTEMBER 1-4
Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School international reunion in Las Vegas Come and celebrate with RMCHS alumni and guests for the third biannual international homecoming. Sing, dance, party, share precious memories and join the fun from Friday, September 1 to Monday, September 4 at The Orleans Hotel and Casino at 4500 W. Tropicana Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89103. Join the golf tournament in the morning of Saturday, Sept. 2 and then wear your best (black and white) for a dinner dance later that evening. Make this event an opportunity to reunite with your own batchmates, watch a show, visit tourist spots, and stroll along the Las Vegas Strip. For more information, visit the RMCHS 2017 INTL REUNION Facebook page.
S E P T E M B E R 1 5 -1 7
Liliwenos reunion in Las Vegas, NV Calling all Liliwenos living all around the world! There will be a three-day reunion in Las Vegas, NV starting with a picnic on Friday, Sept. 15 at Silverado Ranch Park. On Saturday, Sept. 16, it is a dinner/dance party at the Palace Station (2411 W. Sahara Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89102) at 5 p.m. The attire is semi-formal and costs $50 / person. Souvenir t-shirts cost $10 regardless of size. Deadline of payment for both the reunion and t-shirt cost is August 31 to be sent to Ms. Nerri Monteagudo at 9252 Bronze River, Las Vegas, Nevada 89149. On Sept. 17, participants are free to explore the Strip and other Vegas activities. For more information, please contact Bob and Nerri Monteagudo at (702) 339-3838; Carmen P. Manguin (702) 526-8005; Loida Borgonos at (201) 654-5482; or Fred Polistico at (818) 527-3476.
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26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture in Echo Park Save the date! The 26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) hosted by Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) is back at Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, October 14. Expect a whole day filled with art exhibits, entertainment, and Fil-Am vendors. More details and special guests to be announced. For more information, please visit: http://www.filamarts.org/.
18th annual Asian Small Business Expo in Alhambra, CA On Saturday, Oct. 14, the 18th annual Asian Small Business Expo will be held at the Almansor Court Conference Center (700 S. Almansor St., Alhambra, CA 91801), featuring free workshops, exhibitors, networking opportunities, and more! Jonny Hwang, founder of 626 Night Market, is the featured guest speaker with special guest, Jerome Horton, chairman of the California Board of Equalization. It is FREE to attend! The Asian Small Business Expo is the only business-to-business expo that engages the Asian business community and brings this growing economic force into the mainstream to connect and utilize your company and its services. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with small businesses, market your organization and tap into a network of entrepreneurs, service providers, financial organizations, franchises and governmental and legislative representatives. For more information, please visit http://www.apisbp.org/expo.html.
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26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture in Echo Park Save the date! The 26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) hosted by Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) is back at Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, October 14. Expect a whole day filled with art exhibits, entertainment, and Fil-Am vendors. More details and special guests to be announced. For more information, please visit: http://www.filamarts.org/.
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NaFFAA to celebrate 20th anniversary in Washington, DC The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) turns 20 years old this year. This October, several events are being planned to celebrate this milestone, which coincides with the national observance of Filipino American History Month. They will culminate with NaFFAA’s 20th Anniversary Gala, to be held at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, DC on Saturday, October 21. With its theme “NaFFAA 2.0: One Voice, Four Million Strong,” NaFFAA will recognize the legacy and accomplishments of the organization over the past 20 years, and highlight its comprehensive vision to unite and amplify the voices of the four million Filipinos living in the United States. “NaFFAA 2.0” represents how NaFFAA is honoring its past while forging a new forward-thinking and balanced approach in uniting, engaging, and empowering diverse Filipino American individuals and community organizations through leadership development, civic engagement, and advocacy. To learn more about NaFFAA or to purchase tickets for the 20th Anniversary Gala, please visit www. naffaa.org.
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 50th Anniversary 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@gma
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SEA-US consortium announces Surging beyond economic borders commercial operations of $250M The Tri-FilAm Chamber of Commerce Networks for state of the art undersea cable system November bi-national conference and tri-city tours THE seven-member Southeast Asia – United States (SEA-U.S.) cable consortium announced that the full commercial operations of the $250 million submarine fiber cable system that directly links Asia to the U.S. for faster data transmission, more efficient connectivity and greater network resiliency, has officially been achieved on August 8, 2017. With the recent completion of the Philippine and Indonesia portion, the cable system can now provide additional capacity for the exponential growth of bandwidth between the two continents as well as bypass congested, earthquake-prone areas to ensure business continuity even during disasters. “We are happy that the final leg of the SEA-U.S. cable strategically terminating in Davao, is already done. We are proud to be part of this landmark undertaking because of the immense benefits that it brings to the country and the rest of the Southeast Asian region. The facility will not only ease our dependence on the two international cable systems routed through Northern Philippines but will also provide sup-
port for the expanding business requirement for data in Southern Philippines and the country as a whole,” said Ernest L. Cu, President and CEO of Globe Telecom, one of the consortium members. Globe commercially launched the SEA-U.S. cable facility on August 11 - three days after the cable consortium declared SEAU.S. ready for commercial operations. The SEA-U.S. undersea cable system delivers a 20 Terabit per second capacity with state-ofthe-art 100 Gigabit per second technology. It provides the fastest direct access between the U.S., Philippines and Indonesia, extending nearly 9,000 miles on a route that bypasses congested, earthquake-prone regions. The SEA-U.S. system includes expansive and redundant terrestrial networks connecting cable stations and data centers in California, Guam and Hawaii, Indonesia, and as important, Philippines. As one of the world’s top vendors of submarine cable systems, Mr. Toru Kawauchi, General Manager of NEC’s Submarine Network Division said, “It is with deep pride that NEC hands over
the key to launch SEA-U.S. to the SEA-U.S. consortium members. From the day we signed the contract, we have dedicated our best resources to completing this cable. There are plenty of obstacles for every cable we build, and SEA-U.S. was not immune from this. However, together with the cable owners, we overcame each obstacle, and have come to this day. We look forward to many more years of further enhancing our relationship in order to answer the global demand for connectivity. ” The SEA-U.S. cable system was built by a consortium of 7 international telecommunication companies, that include Globe Telecom, PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia International (Telin), Telkom USA, GTI Corporation (a member of the Globe Group of companies), RAM Telecom International (RTI), Teleguam Holdings (GTA) and Hawaiian Telcom (HTEL). It links five countries and territories that include Manado (Indonesia), Davao (Philippines), Piti (Guam), Oahu (Hawaii, United States) and Los Angeles (California, United States).■
Seated, from left: Filipino American Chamber of Commerce Tri-County (Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties) President Merwynn Montenegro, Treasurer Ricky Villacisneros, Secretary Ed Cansino, and 2nd VP Lydia V. Solis. Back row, from left: Jun Aglipay (Membership) and Loi Herrera (Budget & Finance), Filipino American Chamber of Commerce South Los Angeles Area; President Gerry Palon (Filipino American Chamber of Commerce Greater Los Angeles); President Fred Docdocil and Board Advisor Evelyn Andamo (FACC SLAA); 1st VP Ellen Samson and Board Members Lois Klavir, Mary Trinidad, Gemma Bergstrom and Vivian Lim (FACC GLA).
MARIE Cunning, president of the Federation of Philippine American Chambers of Commerce has announced a Bi-National Conference and Tri-City Tours starting on November 1012, at the Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale, AZ, highlighted by a 3-day National Convention of the FPACC involving all FilAm Chambers of Commerce organizations in the United States. Par-
ticipating representatives from the Philippines Chamber of Commerce and Industry will proceed, on the second leg of the tri-city tour, to Los Angeles, on November 14-16, for a 2-day business conference -- a Business Expo and B2B (Business2Business) Sessions with U.S. mainstream companies. The third and final leg of the tour, from November 18-22, will be in Jalisco, Mexico,
for the Cultural and Business Mission -- a celebration of the historic Manila Galleon Trade under the Spanish regime during the 16th century; as well as opening up new trade partnership agreements between the Philippines and Mexico. For more information, visit www.fpacctradexpo.com; contact Gerry Palon at (310) 999-5742 or E-mail Lydia V. Solis, lvsolis@aol.com.■
ANOTHER day, another scam. Case in point: the Federal Reserve Bank of New York reports that scammers are telling people they can pay their bills using so-called “secret accounts” or “Social Security trust accounts” and routing numbers at Federal Reserve Banks. In exchange for personal information, like Social Security numbers, people get what they think is a bank account number at a Federal Reserve Bank. But this really is just a way to get your personal information, which scammers can then sell or use to commit fraud, like identity theft. It’s good to keep in mind that people do not have accounts at Federal Reserve Banks. Only banks can bank at the Federal Reserve. But what happens if you try to use this “secret” account? Well, the Federal Reserve Bank will deny the payment, since
you don’t really have an account there. Once the payment is rejected, you’ll be notified that you still owe the money – which is about when you might figure out that this was a scam. At that point, you may owe a late fee or penalty to the company you thought you were paying. You also may owe fees to your bank for returned or rejected payments. If you see a video, text, email,
phone call, flyer, or website that describes how you can pay bills using a Federal Reserve Bank routing number or account, report it to the FTC. It’s a scam. And remember: never give your credit card, bank account, or Social Security number to anyone who calls or emails and asks for it – no matter who they say they are. (Colleen Tressler/Consumer Education Specialist, FTC) ■
Glendale Police Department reminds No secret bank accounts to pay your bills citizens to drive sober or get pulled over
IN recent years, California has seen an increase in drug-impaired driving crashes. Glendale PD supports the new effort from the Office of Traffic Safety that aims to educate all drivers that “DUI Doesn’t Just Mean Booze.” If you take prescription drugs, particularly those with a driving or operating machinery warning on the label, you might be impaired enough to get a DUI. Marijuana use can also be impairing, especially in combination with alcohol or other drugs, and can result in a DUI. Plan your sober ride home before the party begins as end of summer activities wraps up. It is never okay to drive impaired. Even if you’ve had one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation to get home safely. Drivers are encouraged to download the Designated Driver VIP, or “DDVIP,” free mobile app for Android or iPhone. The DDVIP app helps find nearby bars and restaurants that feature free incentives for the designated sober driver, from free
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non-alcoholic drinks to free appetizers and more. Have family or a friend who is about to drive buzzed or impaired? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get your friend home safely. The cost of a ride home is cheap. Drivers caught driving impaired can expect the impact of a DUI arrest to include jail time, fines, fees, DUI classes, license suspensions and other expenses that can exceed $10,000.00. Funding for this DUI operation is provided to Glendale Police Department by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reminding everyone to ‘Report Drunk Driver – Call 9-1-1’. ■
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Trash your toxics at EDCO in Signal Hill EDCO has just made it twice as easy for residents to dispose of their hazardous and ewaste items. Now, every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Lakewood residents can take their hazardous and e-waste to EDCO’s large transfer facility at 2755 California Avenue (between Spring Street and Willow Street) in Signal Hill. The facility is just a few miles from the Lakewood Civic Center. The next free events are Saturday, August 26, September 9 and September 23. Check out the video to see how quick and easy it is to drop off household toxics like paints, insecticides, chemicals, e-waste, sharps and used cooking and
motor oil. Along with being a free option for hazardous and e-waste, the 68,000-sqare-foot facility is a traditional dump transfer station and, for a fee, takes large and
oversized amounts of brick, used lumber and other material that can’t be put in residential trash carts, recycling carts or green waste cans. The facility can be phoned at 562-997-1122.n
Disclosure of text messages... PAGE B3t going—I didn’t know. Yeah. It’s been incredibly challenging to live with.” She further testified that she had suffered shock and embarrassment and feared for her safety because of the disclosure. Evilsizor also was concerned about Sweeney’s threats to reveal information to the Internal Revenue Service about “things [she] didn’t do.” The court concluded in the Evilsizor case that even if Sweeney legally obtained Evilsizor’s information, an issue left unresolved, it was authorized under the DVPA to enjoin the disclosure or threats of disclosure of the information to protect Evilsizor’s peace of mind. The court ordered Sweeney be “prohibited from using, delivering, copying, printing or disclosing the messages or content of [Evilsizor’s] text messages or e-mail messages or notes, or anything else downloaded from her phone
or from what has been called the family computer except as otherwise authorized by the court.” Sweeney also was prohibited from trying to access or otherwise interfere with Evilsizor’s internet-service provider accounts or social-media accounts. Text messages, E-mails, Social media, and other electronic communication has become a common and inseparable part of today’s lifestyle. Accessing, reading, and publicly disclosing electronic communication of an ex, spouse, or sgnificant other has profound effect in every divorce and family law case. A finding of domestic violence against a party can affect the rulings on custody and spousal support issues. If your divorce or family law matter involves your ex, spouse, or significant other downloading and disclosing confidential electronic communication, one has to consider taking appropriate
may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation. (Advertising Supplement)
political tensions in Qatar and North Korea. Internal risks include the increased frequency and intensity of natural hazards, delays in infrastructure and reconstruction projects, logistics bottlenecks,
political noise, policy differences in subsidies, growing number of Filipinos of reproductive age and political noise. In an interview on CNBC, Pernia said the economy likely grew stronger in the second quarter from 6.4 percent in the first quar-
ter on the back of the stronger performance of exports and the agriculture sector. “We have seen exports improving, agriculture also, and government spending is going to be a boost in the second quarter,” he said. n
ğ įōíľ ÀðıÃæµįPçį ʼn æIJįıÀ ØÃĉÃæîÂ ß ğÃqPç qíß߼æÃıŎįĤÀíĽØ ÕæíŊįPdíĽIJĕ If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, email us the details (title, description, time & date, location, etc.) at info@asianjournalinc.com. And for consideration in our print calendar, please send submissions at least three weeks before the date of the event. To be included in our online calendar/ e-newsletter, please allow at least two to three weeks' notice. The Asian Journal would be delighted to list your event in our Calendar of Events.
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Retailers feel pinch of online...
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merce and Industry president George Barcelon shared the same view. He said competition from online stores is growing, noting the need to ensure a level playing field. “We want to make sure they are paying the right taxes,” Barcelon said. Some of the country’s mall operators, for their part, concede that online retailing is indeed growing and that they are doing innovations to keep their malls filled with customers. “We expect online retail to grow in the coming years but we continue to upgrade our mall offerings to include more exciting and experiential features that are resilient to online retailing,” SM Prime Holdings Inc. president Jeffrey Lim told The Star. At present, SM Prime has 63 shopping malls all over the country with a gross floor area of 7.8 million square meters. Ayala Corp. chief finance officer TG Limcaoco said it would take a long time before e-com-
merce goes full blast in the Philippines, but the conglomerate is making sure malls will remain popular. “There is a need to shift the model to make malls a lifestyle and entertainment destinations,” he said. As of end-2016, Ayala had 45 malls in operation. But e-commerce still has a lot of room for improvement because delivery of items still takes days in the Philippines, Limcaoco added. “Weneedtogetlogisticsinplace. In the U.S. or in Europe, delivery is on the same day,” he said. The Villar Group likewise believes brick and mortar shopping would stay even as it recognized that online retailing is growing. “You can’t say it is not going to happen but for now it hasn’t affected us because e-commerce
still has some serious obstacles such as slow internet and there also some problems in logistics,” Vista Land president and CEO Manuel Paolo Villar said. He said there some items that are popular online such as cellphones, apparel and books but others major needs such as groceries would still be in shopping malls. The Philippine e-commerce market was valued at $500 million in 2015 and is expected to grow to $9.7 billion by 2025, according to a May 2016 report by Google/Temasek.n
Philippines eyes $3.8 B...
action in the case to be protected from conduct which is regarded PAGE B1 t as abuse under the California do- tions, such as the Asian Inframestic violence statute. n structure Investment Bank and *** the Agence Francaise de DevelAttorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of oppement, the IFG said. Meanwhile, another $21.8 milthe Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and lion in non-lending programs Immigration law section of the Los Angeles are also in the pipeline under County Bar Association. He has extensive the COBP, the IFG said. The proCPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located grams include support for projat 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, ect preparations and capacity CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail building of various government kureyeslaw@gmail.com or visit our website at agencies. Kenreyeslaw.com. According to the IFG, the ADB *** has also agreed to look into coPlease note that this article is not legal advice financing arrangements with the and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific Japan International Cooperation legal information. This article is not intended to Agency (JICA) for the Philippines’ cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. flagship infrastructure projects, The specific facts that apply to your matter such as the proposed Philippine
Pernia trumpets Philippines...
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LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 23-25, 2017
National Railways Malolos to Clark Railway and the PNR Commuter South Line project. “On this aspect, the ADB agreed to help the Philippines beef up its capacity and readiness in handling and financing infrastructure projects, particularly on the construction of the country’s railways,” the IFG added. The ADB has also agreed to hold quarterly meetings with Philippine officials to ensure that the bank’s country partnership strategy is aligned with the administration’s priorities, according to the IFG. “The bank has also responded positively to our request to
increase the Philippines’ lending envelope and provide more grants and technical assistance,” the IFG said. Finance Secretary Dominguez had been appointed last May as chairman of the ADB Board of Governors. Earlier, the bank committed its support for the Philippines’ infrastructure program. ADB president Takehiko Nakao said improving the transportation infrastructure is one of the ADB’s priorities in the country. He said the lack of adequate infrastructure remains one of the more significant constraints to the Philippines’ growth prospects. n
SSS eyes private sector...
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have the pension (benefit) which is the greatest in terms of amount every month,” Dooc said, noting the SSS disburses over P100 billion annually to pay pension benefits. He also cited additional disbursements covered by the pension fund, including the death, disability and maternity benefits, among others. “The risk is very substantial, so
the issue there is will it be a viable business proposition to the insurer?” Dooc said. As such, the SSS chief said the proposal is to tap a consortium, or to urge private insurance firms to pool their funds together. “It should be a consortium or a pooling, because we need a huge capacity for the insurer. The current capitalization of insurance firms now is P550 million per
company, how many lives can that cover?” he said. According to Dooc, the SSS is now in talks with the Actuarial Society of the Philippines, which will study the proposition and assess its viability. “The ASP is already studying it, we have one informal and one formal meeting. They will revive their social security committee,” Dooc said. n
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cover story The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 23, 2017
Get hired: how to move your job application ahead by IrIs
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WHeTHeR you’re a fresh graduate who has the faintest idea what it’s like to apply for a job, or someone who’s looking for a major career move, the whole process of seeking a post can be quite a challenge. Tired of the frustrating course of applying and someone else taking it because they crop up as “more qualified” than you? Chill out! Most of the time it’s not about incompetence, sometimes, you just haven’t found the slick hacks to entice employers in saying, “Hey! I’m calling dibs on this one.” Here are some pointers to get you through applying and getting ahead on other applicants: Polish your resume Knockout credentials have no merit when laid out as crude. It’s important that you organize the things that you want to put in your resume. Remember: your resume is your ticket to the next phase which
is the interview so if you don’t put more work and tweaks on it, you’ll lose your chance at selling yourself. These days a resume may be scanned in a matter of seconds — if at all. Highlight what you think are your selling points and outline it to the job posting. And please, put your latest email address, not from when you were a kid with lots of charac-
You need to make the hiring managers feel comfortable about you on an emotional level to sell yourself and stand out.
In a very competitive market where everybody highlights their winning features, the challenge lies on how to Remember: employers do not want fake smiles or rehearsed answers during the interview. They want brand yourself as a cut above the rest. Inquirer.net photos to know whether you really align with their culture and the position.
ters and numbers e.g aibisyosa16@gmail.com. Prepare for the interview Research on the company and job you’re applying to beforehand. Don’t just barge in without knowing what you’re putting yourself into. Companies don’t want to hire someone who doesn’t know why or even if they want to work there. Look into the job position responsibilities, accountabilities and growth opportunities. Being knowledgeable about these things creates an impression to the hiring managers that you mean business, and not someone who just wants to take any job you can get. Network It’s time to make use of your connections specially in social media. Sometimes, job opportunities can arise in the unlikeliest places. Be open to communicat-
ing and networking with others in your field. Whether at industry events, over email, make the effort to connect with others. Make sure to stand out In a very competitive market where everybody highlights their winning features, the challenge lies on how to brand yourself as a cut above the rest. It’s not enough to fire companies up with your resume and hoping you’ll get a call afterwards, you need to be a step ahead all the time, be creative and unique. Ask the right questions to find out what the company’s problems are and prove that you can solve those problems. Another hack is to research on the interviewer as he or she is the key to your potential break, see if there’s something you can talk about while being polite and professional. You need to make the hiring managers feel
comfortable about you on an emotional level to sell yourself and stand out. Be honest Questions like defining your strengths and weaknesses are some of the trickiest as they could be fallbacks if you don’t answer them smartly. Be authentic about your weaknesses — not necessarily overcoming them, but state what steps you’re doing to manage them. A weakness can become a strength if you spin it right. But remember: employers do not want fake smiles or rehearsed answers during the interview. They want to know whether you really align with their culture and the position. Being honest is the best way to show off your skills to nail the job of your dreams. Look the part First impressions might not
always be accurate in real life but when it comes to seeking for a job, it is everything. Dress for the part of an upper or senior management (even if you are fresh out of college). Hiring managers would only talk to you for a few minutes so make sure to leave a lasting impression. Most of the time, people get eliminated because they have bad postures, thus be confident and carry yourself well like a professional would. While all of these are just things that could increase your chances at landing success, the power of whether or not you’re gonna get hired lies solely on your own ability and remember, getting rejections is not the end of the world. Don’t stop looking until you find the job that matches your values and meets your needs.
Signs that you’re ready for a job change Do it right: Writing the perfect resume by JennIfer
by elIJah
roderos AJPress
sorIano
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OuR jobs occupy a big chunk of our lives. That’s why it’s no surprise it is called occupation. To quote Apple founder Steve Jobs, “The only way to do a great work is to love what you do.” Sure, it is easier said than done, because at some point, loving what we are doing can be a difficult task. What you thought would be a pleasant mutually beneficial relationship with paper work, co-employees and your boss, can become a dreaded cloud in the horizon along your supposedly pleasant walk in your career path. Most of the time we get confused, scared even. But how far do we see ourselves traveling down this road that leads us to the infinite black hole? Here are a few signs that you need a detour and are all set in hop-in for a new job: You’re not passionate about work any longer If you can flip a tennis ball, an egg and an apple up in the air while delivering comical one-liners, but your job only allows you to sell tickets, it’s highly possible that you will get bored. eventually it will lead to apathy that shows up in your work. People around you can tell and they don’t want a job done by this kind of employee. There can also be situations that you do great in a job that you do not truly enjoy, so you end dreading it. “Doing the same job for 50 years, unless you love it, is going to prove to be challenging,” says Career Doctor, Dr John Taccori. “Changing careers is healthy and keeps you engaged in the workforce longer. However a career change should be made with a well-informed mind.” Satisfaction and fulfillment ensue if what we do has a purpose at least, if not passion. You don’t feel your worth is valued A pat on the back of the boss works wonders. It feeds the basic human necessity of sense of worth and belongingness. A simple, “good job” means you are part of the overall success of the company. However, when you did a job well and have spent blood, sweat and tears just to ensure the quality of your work but never getting any credit or recognition can be a dangerous thing to both parties.
While some people can be content on staying in the same position for a long period of time, others want to grow in order to progress in their careers. Philstar.com photo
It can sap out your interest to your and decreases your chances of survival in your job. You want to reach a higher level While some people can be content on staying in the same position for a long period of time, others want to grow in order to progress in their careers. For some workplace, they provide little or no room for growth, thus leaving employees stunted. If this is the case, it’s time to pack your bags and breath fresh air that nourishes career growth. But be wary. People can make bold career decisions, even unexpected ones. But we have to make sure that every move is a calculated one to minimize risk and avoid the notorious move: One step forward, two steps backward. You’re always too stressed, even after work As the popular saying goes, “All work, no play makes John a dull boy.” If your work seems to be occupying your waking hours, following you or let’s say, haunting you at home until the wee hours of the night, then you are sacrificing that much-needed “me” time. This leaves you stressed, thus, making you counterproductive at work. This might happen for occasional urgent reasons, but if it happens almost everyday, just stop and breathe and draft that resignation letter. You’re depressed Do you find yourself perennially tired? Do you always drag
yourself out of the bed and sometimes think of excuses for skipping work for a day, if not forever? Well, normally that happens especially after long weekends and during cold weather. But if it happens on a regular basis, it is because you don’t like your work. Chances are, your work does not love you back either. This can be manifested in a decreased emotional well being that can further affect our overall well being. Our jobs offer us a mix of interesting factors such as joy, pain, sadness, sacrifice, kindness, and support. If we, with the participation of our bosses, co-employees and clients manage to strike a good balance of these; then we can yield a satisfying job. If not, then go ahead and leave. The imbalance of these factors sums up that you are ready for a job change. Do it as a favor to yourself to experience life and a job that you deserve. It wouldn’t be easy but most of the time, the strength to do it is all we need. Make that decision where you won’t end up sully later on. After you’ve found that new job, start with yourself first. Start by being a better version of yourself. Put the distressing situations you have had on your previous job into good use by learning from them. If all else fails, repeat, not the mistakes, but the process. This will eventually lead you to find the one that you deserve.
A WeLL-WRITTen resume is your best tool to make a good first impression to your potential employer. A study by an online job-matching service TheLadders says that It only takes an average of 6 seconds for recruiters to scan your resume and decide right away whether you’re up to the job or not. Taking time to write your resume is really important, so make sure it follows a clear visual hierarchy to make it stand out above the rest. Here are some essential tips from TheLadders and Business Time, on how to make a perfect resume that can likely increase your chance to get a call on your job interview: 1. Start your resume with a branding statement Begin your resume with your branding statement that stands out rather than relying on the traditional objective statement. An objective statement only focuses on the job seeker’s talents in relation to a particular job position, whereas a branding statement doesn’t only focus on a specific position or industry. Instead, it allows the job hunter to sum up his/her talents and translatable skills in a one definitive sentence. Here’s an example: Objective statement: “Talented social media marketing professional seeks position as an associate at a small to medium size clothing retailer.” Branding statement: “Fashion savvy social marketing wiz with experience running successful marketing campaigns incorporating Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr.” There are still posted jobs with the sole intent of filling a single position. Whilst this is still a frequent goal today, employers now seek out talents and
Tailor your resume to every job application that responds to the specific requirements your prospect organizations are looking for. It is important to be unique, rather than merely using generic terms you originally apply for or held.
create space for well-qualified individuals whom can fit within their organizations. Start your resume with a branding statement that can show how you can be a valuable asset to your target companies. 2. Prioritize your expertise and skills on top List all these things near the top where the recruiter can easily see them. use action verbs when presenting your accomplishments and support it with quantitative data if you can. For example, say that you increased sales by 50 percent, or the decisions you made led to a 120 percent decrease in operational costs. This is the area where you can freely go in depth and be specific. Don’t focus on your personal achievement; instead be detailed on your qualifications that can contribute to the company. 3. Tailor your resume for the potential position Tailor your resume to every job application that responds to the specific requirements your prospect organizations are looking for. It is important to be unique, rather than merely using generic terms you originally apply for or held. use keywords that match the job description. These may catch the employers’ attention and probably place your resume at the top of the list. Don’t make a mistake of just portraying a bio of a candidate but market your skills and strengths for the particular position.
Taking time to write your resume is really important, so make sure it follows a clear visual hierarchy to make it stand out above the rest. Photos from the U.S. Department of Labor
Some companies nowadays use preliminary software that targets specific words or phrases in order to determine which resume should be further assessed or flagged down. If you strategically place keywords on your resume, there’s a greater chance it will be forwarded on to a breathing HR professional. 4. Avoid using creative fonts and formatting Choose a classic font such as Arial, Times new Roman, Calibri or Verdana. Avoid using excessive amounts of bold, italics, and other features as this may confuse resume scanning software. If you do choose to use bold or italics in titles and headings, make sure to use it consistently. Forgo distractive fonts and visuals which may hamper employer’s decision-making and reduce their analytical capabilities. Create a clear visual hierarchy that is smoothflowing for the employer’s to read through. 5. Don’t make it too long There’s no specific length for a resume because it depends on your work experience and education. Yet, there’s a greater chance that your employer will give lesser attention to the next page than the first. Hence, include as much on the first page without making your resume appear cluttered. 6. Follow employer’s instruction on making a resume There’s nothing that will get a resume sent to the recycling bin faster than failing to follow the basic submission instructions. Common directives may include: submitting your resume as a specific file type, using a specific format on file name, including specific information on the subject of the email, using specific font type and size, and/or submitting your resume through the company website instead of email. More often, these instructions are given because of the employer’s special Continued on Page 3
Toni Gonzaga slams cheating rumors about Paul Soriano, Erich Gonzales by IRIS VICENTE AJPRESS
SHE knew it was coming. Toni Gonzaga is dismissing rumors surrounding her husband, commercial and film director Paul Soriano and actress Erich Gonzales. In an interview with Pep. ph during the opening of Alex and Toni Gonzaga’s Happy Cup milk tea business, Toni revealed that she was aware of the blind items involving her husband and Erich, when the two filmed the movie “Siargao” in May. Paul directed the film while Erich, who was recently involved in a controversial break-up with Daniel Matsunaga, played the main character opposite Jericho Rosales. “Really? You know what, Paul already told me last May. He said, ‘I think people are gonna make an issue about me and Erich just like how they did to me with Maja [Salvador] before. So I guess it’s inevitable because Erich already talked to me and she said that some people are bashing her, messaging her, ‘‘how can you do that to Toni? Stuff like that.” she said. With Toni’s huge following, it’s no surprise that people began bashing Paul and Erich regarding the issue. “Paul said, ‘It’s not true, and I don’t wanna react about it,” Toni shared. Toni also believes that a woman’s intuition is accurate most of the time and that she trusts her husband fully.
Paul Soriano and Toni Gonzaga recently celebrated their second wedding anniversary. Photo from Toni Gonzagaʼs Instagram account
“Ewan ko, ayaw nating magsalita nang tapos, but we always lift it up to God na sana wag kaming dumaan sa ganung klase ng pagsubok, trial o ano pa man na challenge sa married life. Naniniwala kasi ako sa intuition, kasi sabi ng mommy ko kahit walang issue, kahit walang tsismis, kahit walang ano, may woman’s intuition most likely 80% of the time, it’s true. Pinakiramdaman ko, so far wala pa naman,” Gonzaga said. (I don’t know, i don’t want to put an end to it but we always lift it up to God hoping that we won’t go through that kind of challenges in our married life. I believe in intuition, my Mom said that even though there’s no issue, nothing at all, there’s a woman’s intuition, most likely, 80% of the time, it’s true. I’m trying to observe, so far there’s none.) According to Toni, there are also rumors circulating about Erich and Jericho even though
the latter is already married to blogger/model Kim Jones. Toni even joked about which one between Paul and Jericho is really involved with Erich, “So ano talaga ang totoo? Multiple choice? Kaya pala pina-visit niya ako. Sabi niya [Paul], ‘Why don’t you visit here?’ E, nagsyu-shooting kami ni Piolo, next month na yung shooting namin. Last four days.” she added. (So what’s the truth? Multiple choice? Maybe that’s the reason why he wanted me to visit on set, he said ‘why don’t you visit here?’ but I’m filming with Piolo, Our shooting is next month. Last four days.) Toni was referring to the romantic-comedy movie that will be out next month in which she and Piolo are currently filming. The movie, which is directed by Joyce Bernal, is a dark romcom according to Toni. She described it as different from all the other rom-com movies she has ever done.
Do it right: Writing the perfect... From Page 2 software requirements; however, in other cases, it is used to test the applicant’s ability to follow simple instructions. 7. Be honest While it is important to maximize certain work history and minimize the others, it is never okay to lie. In some companies, employers require to have a reference person, whether a colleague, or a previous employer
because they will check your claims. And when they do, make sure there aren’t any unpleasant surprises. 8. Review your resume At the end of every resume, you need to evaluate and check for grammatical errors and spellings. Make sure that you updated your e-mail, phone number, and address as much as needed. Never misspell on your
resume. A trivial oversight can make your recruiters take you less seriously. You can ask a co-worker, former employers, teachers, parents or guardians, or other trusted people to check your resume and tell you if something is not right. You can also have it professionally done. You may want to do the first draft, but leave the final touches to a professional.
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 23, 2017
One change changes everything AMERICAN Career College (ACC) has provided educational opportunities to students in California since 1978. Originally founded as a college of optics, ACC now offers 13 different campus programs for students interested in the allied health professions. Today, ACC enrolls approximately 5,000 students at Southern California campuses located in Los Angeles, Orange County, Ontario, Long Beach and Lynwood. Additionally, ACC’s Career Services Department assists students and graduates in a broad range of career planning and ad-
vising including: resume writing, interviewing skills and follow-up; developing job opportunities through leads and networking; the full hiring cycle starting with resumes and job applications; and time management skills. ACC has helped prepare students and graduates in Southern California with career planning, obtaining financial aid assistance, and more. ACC’s healthcare-focused training prepares students to begin their career in: Dental Assisting, Medical Assistant, Optical Technician, Massage Therapy, Medical Billing and Coding, and
Pharmacy Technician, some in as little as 9 months.* ACC also offers programs in Respiratory Therapy, Vocational Nursing, Surgical Technology, and more.** Financial Aid is available to those who qualify! Call to learn more. *Program length varies by session and schedule. ACC cannot guarantee employment. **Programs vary by campus. For graduation rates, media debt of graduates completing programs, and other important information, visit: americancareercollege. edu/disclosures (Advertising Supplement)
Ogie Alcasid now a Golden Boy by RICKY LO Philstar.com
IN barely a week, Ogie Alcasid is turning 50 and he’s celebrating his Golden Year in Paris with his wife Regine Velasquez and son Nate, along with his ex-wife Michelle van Eimeren and husband Mark Murrow, and Michelle’s daughters (with Ogie) Leila and Sarah. Why in Paris?
Ogie Alcasid is celebrating his 50th birthday in Paris.
“Because Nate (Nathaniel James Alcasid) is serving as Ring Bearer at the wedding of) Dr. Vicki (Belo) and (Dr.) Hayden (Kho),” explained Ogie whose daughter’s birthday falls on Sept. 1, just about the time of the wedding. “So we might as well celebrate na lang together in Paris since andoon na rin naman kami.” Ogie’s birthday is on Satur-
day, Aug. 27, two days after his special concert “Nakakalokal “at the Kia Theater, which is so titled because Ogie will be doing an all-OPM repertoire with his guests Angeline Quinto, Erik Santos, Jaya, Teng Constantino, Solenn Heussaff, Lovi Poe and his daughter Leila. Ogie is doing the concert gratis et amore for the World Vision DevelopContinued on Page 4
Philstar.com photos by Ricky Lo
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 23, 2017
Celebrating the Moon Festival with Hmart Moon Cake Gift Sets LYNDHURST, NJ (August 21, 2017) – The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the most important traditional Asian festivals. This is a time for family reunions and to count the blessings from the past year. Lanterns will be lit that day, and families will enjoy delicious dishes together. At a
traditional Mid-Autumn banquet, the mooncake, a treat shaped like a round moon, is an essential snack. Mid-Autumn Festival is nearly here! Hmart now presents a collection of fresh items that are perfect as gifts, from the traditional GUANGZHOU-
Sarah Lahbati and Richard Gutierrez announced their engagement last month. Photo from Sarah Lahbatiʼs Instagram account
JIUJIA mooncake boxes to the popular Green Tea flavor moon cake, giving you the chance to send your blessings to your friends and family. Hmart is offering an array of traditional flavors this holiday. Keep it traditional with the much loved White Lotus Seed Paste with two egg yolks, or be a bit more adventurous with mixed nuts healthy alternative! These mooncake boxes are an
easy way to share the traditional flavors of Mid-Autumn Festival with your family and friends and are a stunning gift for them that’s sure to impress. Customers can now nip the tradition mooncake and discover Hmart’s massive range of Asian goodies. What a great way to explore Asian Culture! Find more information about this event, visit www.hmart. com. (Advertising Supplement)
Ogie Alcasid now... From Page 3 ment Foundation, Inc. whose advocacy includes children who are victims of sex abuse. “It’s my way of saying ‘Thank you’ for all the blessings in my life,” said Ogie who, thanks to his “cuteness,” doesn’t look 50 at all (in jest, the press release says it’s his “21st birthday” concert, hehehe!!!). Asked to give 50 reasons why turning “golden” is extraspecial, Ogie could mention only two: happy home and wellraised children. “It’s nice to go home to a happy family,” said Ogie. “I do Facetime with my kids, with Regine, with Michelle and Mark. Ang saya ngfeeling na sa bahay mo walang conflict kasi pag toxic sa bahay mo, ang hirap, eh. Toxicityang talagang papatay sa pamilya mo.” And there are his children, with Leila (the eldest) now living with Ogie and Regine. “I’m happy that Leila is
back home,” continued Ogie. “She has started a career here and she’s not in a hurry. She’s grateful for the blessings. She has been here for only six months at nag-Bench na siya, naggi-guest on TV at kinukuhang cover girl ng magazines. When she posts something on her blog, may bayad na s’ya at maraming nagpa-follow sa kanya. I was teasing her, ‘Anak, 30 years na ako sa showbiz, I keep on posting and posting and I’m not getting anything.’ Like her dad, Leila is also a songwriter and an ardent fan of OPM. A few days ago, Leila started recording her own composition under Marion Aunor, with Lara Maigue as voice coach. While pursuing her own career, Leila will resume her studies (started in Australian where she used to stay with her mom) either at UP or Ateneo. It was Ogie himself who
Sarah Lahbati, Annabelle Rama clash over wedding plans by IRIS VICENTE
KAPAMILYA actress Sarah Lahbati recently revealed details about her upcoming wedding with long-time boyfriend Richard Gutierrez. In her guesting on ABSCBN’s morning show “Magandang Buhay,” Sarah shared that she wants an intimate gathering rather than a huge wedding celebration. However, she also revealed that she might get into an argument with future mother-in-law Annabelle Rama if she insists on her preference because the latter prefers a flashy and grand wedding for her and Richard. ”Mag-aaway kami doon ni Tita kasi gusto ni Tita bongga, ‘yung marami. Marami siyang kaibigan. Kaya feeling ko mag-a-argue kami doon. So naiisip namin what if isa dito, isa abroad, pero parang magastos din ‘yon. So ‘yung mga kino-consider namin ano ba dito or abroad, kapag abroad ba lahat ay makakapunta. So ang dami naming kino-consider kasi nga gusto namin lahat ng
loved ones namin ay nandoon.” she said. (Tita and I will disagree on it because she wants it to be glamorous and huge. She has a lot of friends so I think we’ll argue about that. We are considering if we’re gonna do two weddings, here and abroad but that would be costly. If we do it abroad, we are considering if all of our friends could attend. So we have a lot to consider because we want all of our loved ones to be there.) Sarah and Richard, who have been together for five years, got engaged in Switzerland last July. It was the same place where Sarah grew up and took refuge when she was hiding her pregnancy in 2012, eventually giving birth to their first born, Zion. “Ako lang ang dream ko ay makumpleto ang family ko at family niya, kaibigan ko at mga kaibigan niya para maging soulful,” she added. (My only dream is for our family and friends to be complete for it [wedding] to be soulful.)
prepared the family itinerary in Paris. “Nothing grand,” he assured. “Maybe we will just eat out.” Asked what the best thing is about turning 50, Ogie smiled.
“My children have grown up and they are nice to talk to. In business, I have become choosy with what I do. Slow down na and enjoy life more, unlike in my 30s and 40s when I was always on the go.”
AJPRESS
Town mates and Friends:
Please join us in celebration of our
508/ '*&45" TU '06/%*/( "//*7&34"3: 0' #"4$ JO -"4 7&("4 /&7"%" When: Saturday, October 7, 2017 Where: Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, 400 West Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89103 Prepaid Dinner Buffet ticket only: $65 per person Please make check payable to: Aludiya Lagmay-Ganzon 8119 Mary E Ellen Avenue, North Hollywood, California 91605 - or Priscilla Castaneto-Ruedas 6851 Dale Street Apartment # 16, Buena Park, California 90621
Nazario Perlas: Precy Castaneto- Ruedas:
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Josie Dolor Etrata: wilpenn@yahoo.com Mary Ann Arichea–Caunan: macaunan@ha.ucla.edu *Discounted Room rates available at Gold Coast Hotel & Casino until September 3, 2017: Code: ABA2017
The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 23, 2017
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 23, 2017
Pala Casino Spa & Resort announces plans for $170-million expansion and renovation 400 construction jobs to be created PALA, CA – Officials of Pala Casino Spa & Resort today announced plans for an expansion and complete renovation of its AAA Four Diamond award winning property. Construction of the $170-million project will begin in October 2017 and be completed in May 2019. The renovation and expansion will include: the addition of a new 349 room hotel tower; the conversion of the existing resort pool into a multi-pool and entertainment resort complex; the construction of an inventory of unique hotel suites that will overlook the Starlight Theater event lawn and the new pool and entertainment complex; expanded gaming and casino bar space; a parking garage expansion; a completely remodeled restaurant promenade; a complete refresh of the entire casino interior; a complete refresh of the entire existing hotel tower. “Our ability to exponentially expand and refresh Pala Casino Spa & Resort is a true testament to, not only the growth of Pala, but also to the thriving economy and the continued strength of the gaming industry in California,” said Robert Smith, Chairman of the Pala Band of Mission Indians. “This is a significant milestone for our Tribe and we look forward to continuing to exceed the expectations of our loyal patrons.” Once completed, Pala’s hotel will offer 854 deluxe rooms and suites, beautifully appointed with the finest amenities. The hotel suites that will be added will overlook the new multi-pool and entertainment complex and the Starlight Theater, Pala’s custom built outdoor entertainment venue, which offers outstanding headliner acts and state-of-the-art sound and lighting.
The project will increase Pala’s casino from its current 90,000 square feet to over 102,000 square feet of gaming space. The expansion will allow Pala Casino to increase its offering of slot and video machines to 2,500 and its offering of table games to 88. “We are very excited to engage in our third major expansion since our introduction to the Southern California gaming and hospitality market more than 16 years ago. As in the past, we expect elements of this expansion and upgrade to be unique to our property and to set new resort standards,” said Bill Bembenek, Chief Executive Officer of Pala Casino Spa & Resort. “This significant expansion project will complement our already luxurious resort offerings while providing our patrons with new world-class amenities.” Pala’s renovation and expansion project will create 400 construction jobs and, once complete, add over 200 new employment opportunities to Pala’s current team of 2,000 team members. The construction company selected for the renovation and expansion is Level 10 Construction with headquarters in San Francisco, CA, and offices in Sunnyvale and San Diego, CA. The architect is Klai Juba Wald of Las Vegas, NV. The contributing architect is Marks Architects of San Diego, CA. For more information on Pala Casino Spa & Resort, please visit: www.palacasino. com. Pala Casino Spa & Resort includes a Las Vegas-style casino with 2,000 slot machines, 80 table games and 15 poker tables; a 507-room hotel; a 10,000-square-foot, full-service spa and salon that features 14 treatment rooms;
a state-of-the-art fitness center; swimming pool with 12 private poolside cabanas, and dual-temperature outdoor whirlpool hot tub. Pala also offers 11 restaurants and 40,000 square feet of meeting and convention space. Pala Casino Spa & Resort is an AAA Four-Diamond Award winner for 12 consecutive years. The new Pala RV Resort opened May 23, 2016, and offers 100 parking sites for RVs and trailers from 55 to 70 feet and full-service amenities for RVers. Pala RV Resort is rated a perfect 10/10*/10 by Good Sam, the national RV Resort rating publication. Trailer Life and Motorhome magazines awarded Pala RV Resort its Gold Awards for 2016 as Best RV Resort Casino and Best Campground Resort. Its stateof-the-art Pala Spa was named the number three spa in North America and the number one spa in the State of California and the entire casino industry for 2016. The ranking marked the eleventh consecutive year that Pala Spa has been ranked in the Top 100 and Top 10. Pala Casino Spa & Resort was voted Best Casino in San Diego by the public in the 10News.com annual A-List poll sponsored by KGTV-TV 10 News in San Diego. For more information, visit http://www. palacasino.com. The Pala Band of Mission Indians is a federally recognized tribe whose reservation is located along the Palomar Mountain range approximately 30 miles northeast of San Diego. The majority of the over 900 tribal members live on the 12,000-acre reservation, established for Cupeño and Luiseño Indians, who consider themselves to be one proud people - Pala. (Advertising Supplement)
Ariana Grande performing in Bangkok before her Manila concert on Monday, Aug. 21.
Photo from Ariana Grande’s Instagram account
Ariana Grande brings entire gym to Manila concert
EVERyONE can sing or spin, but not everyone can sing while spinning, a stunt Ariana Grande effortlessly pulled off even if she was reportedly sick at her Manila concert at the Mall of Asia Arena. As part of her “Dangerous Woman World Tour,” the American pop star brought an entire gym into the stage. She sang her hit single “Side to Side” while spinning a stationary bike — on high heels. While her backup dancers worked on other gym equipment, Ariana wowed the crowd with her powerful vocals that seemed uninterrupted even as she moved from biking to dancing. Grande opened the concert with her more mellow songs like “Be Alright” and “Moonlight” before transitioning into her more upbeat and bigger hits “Into you,” “Bang Bang” and “Break Free” halfway through the concert. She sang around 20 songs both from her third and latest album, “Dangerous Woman,” and
second album, “My Everything.” Her collaborators in the songs such as Nicki Minaj for “Side to Side” were flashed on the giant LED screen backdrop. Apart from a live band, the concert featured smoke effects, confetti and pink balloons showering over the crowd. Ari, as she was fondly called repeatedly by her fans in the concert, presented a wide repertoire of songs and hymns for everyone of all ages to enjoy. Besides dancing to the beat of her “very millennial” and hiphop-rap anthems, she also sang a lounge-like cover of the Judy Garland classic “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” She is really among those “small girls with big voices” that do not need spectacular sets or costumes because her talent and belting prowess alone is enough to make it all worthwhile to watch her on a stormy day and despite stricter-than-usual security measures. More than half of the concert was carried out without backup dancers or singers, only
Ari showcasing her raw, unedited, live voice. Although, of course, people also saw her for her sexy curves, costumes, bit of bravura, and signature long hair that has a life of its own. Ariana did not disappoint with her several costume changes that include her trademark cropped tops and leather knee-high boots. Oversized jackets and bottoms augmented her stage presence. She looked like as if she won the plum role of Princess Jasmine in the live action adaptation of Disney’s “Aladdin” as her highly pony-tailed hair swagged along with her jodhpur pants. Occasionally, she indulged fans with a naughty playing of her tongue and by repeatedly sending flying kisses together with the Filipino way of saying I love you, “Mahal kita!” Judging by the cheers and the active dance-and-sing-along the sold-out crowd gave back, Filipinos are also so into you, Ariana! (Deni Rose M. AfinidadBernardo/Philstar.com)
Daniel Matsunaga: Open to fall in love again by MJ
Marfori Philstar.com
The Times also caught up with Daniel Matsunaga after the story conference. The charmer that he is, he was all smiles and open to answer the issues swirling around him, so we wasted no time to get an update about his love life. “I’m not seeing anyone right now but I’m open to fall in love Continued on Page 5 Daniel Matsunaga
Inquirer.net photo
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Roxanne Barcelo and Will Devaughn: From real to reel Celebrity couple talk about working together in first movie as actors and producers by Christina
alpad ManilaTimes.net
The Filipina actress and the Korean star’s series ‘My Korean Jagiya’ is TV’s first-ever original FilipinoKorean romantic comedy show. GMA photos
Heart Evangelista, Alexander Lee make Filipino K-drama dreams come true by iza iglesias ManilaTimes.net
FiliPiNos are known to be one of the top nationalities who are still taken over by the Korean drama (K-drama) craze. Proof of this are the localized K-drama programs produced in recent years, which have Filipino actors reprising the lead roles. And whereas one would think Filipino versions of K-dramas take the cake in demonstrating such fanaticism for the neighboring culture, GMA Network has gone a bigger step further in producing local tV’s first-ever original Filipino-Korean romantic comedy series titled, “My Korean Jagiya.” Headlining this newest primetime spectacle is the Philippine tV’s sweetheart Heart evangelista-escudero as Guadalupe immaculada Asuncion or Gia. evangeslita is paired up with professional Korean actor, host, and former member of wellknown K-pop group U-Kiss, Alexander lee, as Kim Jun Ho. “this show is very exciting, and i’ve been having a great time doing it,” lee enthused. “i was actually shocked in the beginning [of taping] how Filipinos are just so welcoming and very friendly. in Korea, it takes us weeks to break the ice! And Heart always takes care of me so i feel at home here.” According to evangelista, this project is “huge” for her especially now that she is celebrating her 19th year in showbiz. “it’s not every day that i get to have these kinds of projects so i am very thankful. it was also overwhelming to be working with Korean actors. especially today when we saw the trailer and the music video, our hard work really paid off. the Koreans are so talented. i am praying for this project’s success, not just for me but for them as well,” the actress shared. Asked to compare the two cultures on set, she replied, “Koreans and Filipinos are almost the same. everyone works fast and we all just get along so it’s only the language that is different. When we left Korea, we were all sad. in turn, Alexander even said when he leaves the Philippines, he will cry.” Meanwhile, the half-Korean, quarter-Portuguese and quarterChinese singer-actor shared that he had known evengelista since he was a student from his foreignexchange classmates. “before i even heard about this project i already knew Heart– she’s famous. even in my school if
there is an international student, they’d talk about Heart. so, when i heard she’s going to be in the show, i said yes immediately and i want to do it,” lee exclaimed. “the first few days [of working]was a little awkward for me but you know, her 19 years in the industry makes her so relaxed and she helped me. it’s all been magical; she’s like a real-life princess and a major reason why my Philippine showbiz experience is perfect. i am really loving it,” lee added. With a light and romantic theme, “My Korean Jagiya” is set to make viewers fall in love with the kilig-filled story between Gia and Jun Ho. the series was partly shot in south Korea’s most scenic spots, which also figure in famous K-dramas including Nami island (“Winter sonata”), Namsan Park (“My Name is Kim sam soon”), love Padlocks at N seoul tower (“My love from the star”), and Daejanggeum Park, the actual set built and used for the internationally-acclaimed series “Jewel in the Palace.” the seoul Film Commission and seoul Metropolitan Government generoudly provided support and assistance to the production team of My Korean Jagiya during their entire stay in south Korea, making everything run smoothly on set and beautifully on screen. the show also stars awardwinning actors Janice De belen as Aida Asuncion, Gia’s widowed aunt; ricky Davao as Jose/Josie Asuncion, Gia’s flamboyant and colorful uncle; iya Villania-Arellano as Kennedy santos, Gia’s perky and cheerful best friend; edgar Allan Guzman as ryan Alba, Gia’s handsome playboy boyfriend; and Valeen Montenegro as Cindy, the manipulative Filipina girlfriend of Jun Ho. Moreover, the show also enjoys the special participation of Korean stars David Kim as Kim Ji Hu, Jun Ho’s stubborn older brother; Michelle oh as Madam Kim Yea-Jin, Jun Ho and Ji Hu’s authoritative but caring mother; and Jerry lee as Manager Choi, the goal-oriented and controlling manager of Jun Ho.
Daniel Matsunaga: Open to...
From Page 6 again,” was the man’s reply. As for his ex-girlfriend erich Gonzales, he wishes her well as he clarified that the viral photo of him and her admirer—yes, the billboard guy—was a hoax. “i do not even remember that picture. i was in brazil when the fans tagged me. Fan photo siguro iyon from years ago. Ang bata pa ng itsura ko doon.” Daniel also clarified that after his successful gig in Paris with Arci Muñoz, he hopes that people will accept that they are just friends. “Close kami ni Arci, tV5 days pa lang. Friends talaga kami and we talk.” Daniel feels bad over about the flak Arci is getting over her ever changing looks from surgery. “We shouldn’t judge. that’s her choice. only God can judge.”
Daniel Matsunaga said the he and Arci Muñoz are just friends.
Celebrities who play lovers onscreen only to fall in love in real life has been written about numerous times. remember Angelina Jolie and brad Pitt in “Mr. & Mrs. smith;” Channing tatum and Jenna Dewan who are still married 11 years after playing lovers in “step Up;” and, on the small screen, “Game of thrones” stars Kit Harrington and rose leslie who are rumored to be engaged. the opposite—that is, reallife couples playing lovers in a movie—is seemingly less exciting for media, but as roxanne barcelo and Will Devaughn prove, can be just as interesting a story. Now on their fourth year as an official couple, the two first met at an awards ceremony where barcelo had won. it wasn’t a love-at-first-sight kind of story, however, because the pair became longtime friends before committing to a relationship. barcelo and Devaughn are set to appear on the big screen via their first movie together, “i Found My Heart in santa Fe,” which follows the blossoming romance between Jennifer (barcelo), a smart, hardworking and pretty islander whose
recent heartache made her tougher around men, and Viktor (Devaughn), an adventurous rich businessman who will stop at nothing to win the fair maiden’s heart. Director bona Fajardo admitted that barcelo and Devaughn as leads made all working on his third movie much easier. “For me, the chemistry is already there—it’s natural for this real-life couple. We really didn’t need to work hard for them to have that magic onscreen,” Fajardo shared. As for barcelo and Devaughn, acting as lovers has its pros and cons. “true, we don’t really need to undergo intimacy workshops to let go off the awkwardness that most reel pairs go through, but there are also challenges on set,” Devaughn divulged. barcelo elaborated and said, “like any couple, we have our simple tampuhan like when Will didn’t wait for me on the set. but we’re both very professional and we carry on with our scenes even during those silly moments.” the 32-year-old actress further noted how in some instances, their scenes allow them to work on their small disagreements.
“Another challenge i can think of is when we have to act like we’re mad toward each other. sometimes we get carried away then we’d have to assure one another that was just a scene,” barcelo added chuckling. besides working together for the first time, the couple takes pride in “i Found My Heart in sante Fe” for not only are they the lead stars but they also serve as co-producers of the film. “What that means is that our work does not end on the set, we talk to sponsors, we promote the film and go about other tasks that actors normally don’t worry about,” Devaughn said. As such, when the press commented on how promising the rushes are, especially its innocent story and glossy and picturesque feel, the couple could hardly contain their happiness. “We too fell in love with santa Fe. Ang ganda talaga. it’s like paradise where you’ll really get to relax and not stress about the volume of tourists. As most of us know, that’s what’s happening in prime tourist spots nowadays,” barcelo shared. sante Fe is a real municipality within the famed bantayan island in Cebu. it boasts of a noncrowded beach and pure white
Roxanne Barcelo and WilL Devaughn are bringing their real life chemistry to the big screen. Photo from Will Devaughn’s Instagram account
sand that sparkles in the sunlight. the idea to shoot the movie in postcard worthy sante Fe came from director Fajardo who also featured the picturesque Vigan, ilocos sur in his previous Kaye Abad-starrer “iliw.” “As directors or writers, we have certain stories that we keep inside our hearts and minds. it is just a matter of finding the right inspiration to fuel that story. When i saw sante Fe last year, i knew i found the place where i’ll shoot the story i had in mind,” Fajardo noted.