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Duterte defends changing Philippine constitution mANILA - President rodrigo Duterte on monday, Aug. 1 defended Charter change and constituent assembly (con-ass) as a mode of changing the Constitution for the shift from the presidential system to a federal-parliamentary form of government. Duterte said it is time to revisit the 1987 Constitution and make it viable to the present time. he also explained that con-ass is the more practical mode for Charter change because a constitutional convention (con-con) would be very costly. Under the 1987 Constitution, there are three modes to amend the Charter: con-con, con-ass and people’s initiative. Duterte dropped his original plan to convene a con-con because it is very expensive, since the members will have to be elected by the people. he opted to convene a con-ass wherein incumbent lawmakers will craft a new Charter. “that was my first position… I thought that a constitutional convention would be more in keeping with the constitutional promise that the people would really believe in and would trust,” Duterte said. Duterte also said he got the approval of former
DATELINE
USA
from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
Obama urges Republicans to drop support for Trump PresIDeNt Barack obama has called on the GoP to discontinue endorsing Donald trump for president, calling the republican nominee “unfit to serve” as Commander-inChief. “this isn’t a situation where you have an episodic gaffe. this is daily,” obama said on tuesday, August 2 at a joint press conference with Prime minister Lee hsien Loong of singapore at the White house. “there has
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Pres. Rodrigo Duterte
Philstar.com photo
presidents for Charter change during last week’s Na- PROPOSED CHANGE. More Filipinos would oppose Charter change if Congress insisted on amending the 1987 Constitution through a Constituent tional security Council meeting. Assembly (Con-Ass), solons from the minority bloc said Tuesday, Aug. 2. According to the latest Pulse Asia survey conducted from July 2 to 8, “It’s time to revisit the Constitution. It’s time to rethink at least 44 percent of 1,200 respondents surveyed do not want Charter change. On the other hand, 37 percent said they think the Constitution
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should be amended while 19 percent remain undecided.
Inquirer.net photo
Supreme Court orders Robredo to Duterte confirms US to give respond to Marcos’s election protests $32-M for military assistance by Dana
Human rights-related issues avoided during meeting with Kerry
SiSon
AJPress
mANILA – the Philippine supreme Court (sC) has ordered Vice President Leni robredo to respond to the electoral protest filed by defeated candidate ferdinand “Bongbong” marcos Jr. within 10 days of receipt of summons. Acting as the Presidential electoral tribunal (Pet), the court on tuesday, August 2 also required robredo to file her response by presenting her defense against marcos’s allegations that the vice presidential race was rigged in her favor last may. the court has “issued a precautionary protection order for the Commission on elections to ROBREDO IN THAILAND. Vice President Leni Robredo was in Thailand on preserve the integrity of all elec- Monday, August 1 to receive the “Honorary Outstanding Women of 2016”
Filipina in Harbor u PAGE A2 Gateway killed Bangladesh urges PH to after car crashes $63-M into prayer meeting return remaining D S
award by the Thai government.
by
ana iSon AJPress
A fILIPINo family mourns the loss of 72year-old elsa De Belen who died after a car careened into a prayer meeting held inside a harbor Gateway, California home on Wednesday, July 27. A red Buick sedan hopped the curb and crashed into a living room on the 14800 block of s. orchard Ave. just after 8 p.m., while a religious gathering was taking place, according to police reports. De Belen was left trapped beneath the vehicle, while the driver fled the scene on foot. Witness Charry maduma told KtLA News the driver of the Buick was speeding before the accident. she said the driver was moving too quickly to make a turn and went airborne before smashing into the house. “I ducked and saw...so much debris and someone afterward was screaming,” Angie Villanueva, a prayer group attendee told a local ABC station. “they were screaming for help.”
mANILA – officials from the Bangladesh central bank are slated to visit manila this week to discuss ways to return the remaining $63 million stolen earlier this year by unknown hackers from an account at the federal reserve Bank of New York. the Bangladeshi delegation consists of Debaprosad Debnath and Abdul rab from Bangladesh Bank’s financial intelligence unit, Bangladesh Bank lawyer Ajmalul hossain and Bangladesh Ambassador John Gomes. they plan to meet the officials of Anti-money Laundering Council (AmLC) in manila, the Department of Justice (DoJ), the central bank and rizal Commercial Banking Corp (rCBC). the Bangladesh government requested the Philippines on monday, August 1, to reopen the senate investigation regarding the $81-million money laundering case that involved funds stolen by hackers from its account in New York last february. senate President Aquilino Pimentel III said Bangladesh Ambassador John Gomes asked for the re-
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by JoSeph
almer B. peDraJaS AJPress
mANILA – President rodrigo Duterte confirmed that the United states expressed commitment to offer $32-million in military assistance, as discussed with U.s. secretary of state John Kerry during his visit to the Philippines last week. speaking before members of the Presidential security Group at the malacañang Park on sunday, July 31, Duterte announced that the U.s. is willing to financially support the Philippines in its war against drugs, terrorism and crime, and its stand on is-
Photo from the Office of the Vice President
sues such as of climate change and maritime security. “the money? oh, 32, ‘Ah, I give you, $32 million,’” Duterte said, quoting what Kerry said. the $32-million financial aid (P1.5 billion) will help to enforce lawful “training and services” including the enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (eDCA). Duterte, upon the juncture, consequently told Defense secretary Delfin Lorenzana to come up with a wish list for the Armed forces of the Philippines. “so I asked Delfin Lorenzana, ‘What’s your priority?’ We did a god job in sulu; I’m impressed.
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Fil-Aussie Jason Day finishes 2nd in PGA Championship, remains #1 in the world Championship at Baltusrol Golf Club in New Jersey on sunday, July 31. DesPIte a stellar week and the filipino-Australian dea now-iconic 2-iron shot on the fending PGA champion lost to closing hole, No. American Jimmy Walker, who 1 in the had topped the leaderboard w o r l d throughout the four-day affair. Jason Walker, 37, started off the Day nar- final round with a one stroke r o w l y lead ahead of Day. the No. 15 m i s s e d in the world played with ease r e p e a t - and composure, making par ing a win throughout the front nine beat the 98th fore making birdie on the 10th, P G A 11th and 17th greens. But come the tournament’s final hours, the 28-year-old Aussie did not go down without a fight. During the par-5 final hole, Walker and Day were at 14 under par and 11 under par, respectively. Day used a 2-iron to by Klarize
meDenilla AJPress
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tee off the 554-yard hole which brought him within 258 yards to the green. for his second shot, he returned to the 2-iron for a near perfect second shot to the green. the ball landed squarely on the green and rolled to perch 14 feet from the cup. the shot — which Day has called “probably one of the best 2-irons I’ve ever hit” — has been looped on highlight reels and celebrated on the Internet. “As soon as I hit it, it felt perfect,” Day said. “It was cutting up against the wind. It was going to land soft. It was going to be really nice.” After Day’s expected eagle, he had a chance to send the Championship to a playoff. Walker needed to make par
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A AUGUST 3-5, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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From the Front Page
Duterte defends changing... PAGE A1 t how we look at things. We have different presentations… same wording, everything is the same, due process, human rights, these are automatic. Maybe just a thing or two about the economic prosperity of this nation, so therefore you need to reconfigure the distribution of shares,” he explained. “Bring a Constitution that would serve the Filipino at this time of his life… I do not promise heaven or pure happiness to them. But I can promise you, perhaps, if I succeed, a comfortable life for all,” he added. Meanwhile, the leadership of the House of Representatives is contemplating forming a constitutional commission or con-com that will review and introduce amendments to the Constitution. Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez said the administrative body may be the solution to the doubts of the public on resorting tocon-ass for the shift from presidential to
from academe and non-governmental organizations to the commission. Alvarez suggested that the Duterte administration may also tap the expertise of retired chief justice Reynato Puno who is an expert on constitutional law, San Beda College of Law dean Ranhilio Aquino and former Senate president Aquilino Pimentel Jr. “They can be tasked to study and review, and even make a draft for a new Charter which they can Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez submit to the constituent assema federal-parliamentary form of bly which, in turn, can discuss them in plenary via debates and government. “I think what we can do is this approve them if necessary,” he (constitutional commission), but I explained. Alvarez said he sees no lehave yet to propose this to President Duterte. I will ask him if he gal impediment to the creation can issue an executive order (for of a constitutional commission GUARDING TEDDY. A member of the PNP-Special Action Force guards confiscated items found inside the New Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa the creation of) a constitutional through an executive order as it is City, including a pink stuffed bear that may have been used to carry drugs during Oplan Galugad. The operation is a bid to sweep clean the prison of drugs and other luxury items. Inquirer.net photo by Marianne Bermudez commission. And this may com- still Congress, acting as con-ass, prise about 20 persons,” he ex- that will discuss and approve the proposed charter change. (With plained. her victory in the vice presidenHe also said the President can reports from Christina Mendez, tial race. appoint constitutional experts Delon Porcalla/Philstar.com) Macalintal said that servPAGE A1 t tions 39,221 clustered precincts ers have nothing to do with the tion materials effective immedi- in 25 provinces and five cities election results for any position ately,” according to the Philip- — includes 20,000 pages of an- since they cannot even alter the pine Star. nexes that consist of affidavits results. Last June 29, Marcos filed an and other files. He is calling for Marcos initially requested the election protest against Robredo “manual recount, technical ex- court to declare him as the righta day before she took her oath as amination and judicial revisions,” fully elected vice president of the second highest government the Philippine Star reported. the Philippines and to nullify the official of the country. The senator also claimed that proclamation of Robredo. Marcos pointed out that there there were instances of vote buyDuring the May elections, it was should be an investigation re- ing and intimidation and that a a tight race between Marcos and garding the accuracy of the elec- fourth server was used, but was Robredo for the vice presidential tion results and the reported not disclosed to the public and positions, with the latter winning irregularities in the election to not subjected to source code re- by just 263,473 votes, according unveil the electoral fraud that in- view. to the final official tally of the Navolved the Liberal Party, SmartHowever, Robredo’s lawyer tional Board of Canvassers. matic Corporation and the Com- Romulo Macalintal said on TuesRobredo won with 14,418,817 mission on Elections (Comelec). day, July 26, that the existence of votes while Marcos placed secThe petition — which ques- an additional server won’t nullify ond with 14,155,344 votes.
Supreme Court orders...
Obama urges Republicans... PAGE A1 t to be a point at which you say, this is not somebody I can support for president of the United States, even if he purports to be a member of my party. The fact that that has not yet happened makes some of these denunciations ring hollow.” The president’s comments come after Trump received backlash for his criticism on Khizr and Ghazala Khan, two Muslim Americans whose son
died in Iraq in 2004 while fighting for the U.S. Army. The Khan family were at last week’s Democratic National Convention, where only the father Khizr Khan spoke, taking issue with several of Trump’s proposed policies, including a temporary ban on Muslim immigration. Trump criticized Ghazala Khan for her silence, asking whether or not she was even allowed to speak. “The notion that he would at-
tack a Gold Star family that had made such extraordinary sacrifices on behalf of our country... means that he’s woefully unprepared to do this job,” Obama said. Obama added his thoughts on Trump run no different than those of mainstream Republicans, like Speaker of the House Paul Ryan and Sen. John McCain (R-Arizona), who Trump had previously criticized for not being a war hero. Throughout the election cycle, Republican legislators have ex-
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Dateline USa
LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 3-5, 2016
A
Poll: voters more likely to support Democratic Party following conventions by Klarize
Medenilla AJPress
FOLLOWING the Republican and Democratic national conventions, more Americans have a more positive view of the Democratic Party, according to a Gallup poll on Monday, August 1. Following the Republican National Convention (RNC) — which was held from July 1821 — 35 percent of Americans viewed the party more favorably. However, after the Democratic convention, held a week after the former, 44 percent of Americans viewed the party more favorably. “Americans’ assessments of the effect of the conventions on their image of each party largely mirror their assessments of how the convention will affect their vote in the 2016 election,” the statement, written by researcher Jeffrey M. Jones, said. The DNC generally left a more positive impression on Americans than the RNC, the results showed, which can predict heftier Democratic support as Election Day approaches.
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However, Gallup pointed out that these results are no different from previous years’ findings. The DNC’s “historically average ratings” this year were an advantage to the party in comparison to the RNC’s “historically negative ratings,” Jones said. Gallup posed a question regarding the “likelihood to vote for the party’s presidential candidate based on what you saw/ read about party’s convention.” Gallup has asked this question about every national convention since 1984, but this year’s conventions were the first to yield larger percentages of Americans who said they are “less likely” to vote for each candidate. For example, 41 percent of Americans are less likely to vote for Clinton after the DNC, which is the highest percentage who have said they are “less likely” to vote for that candidate since Gallup started fielding that question. The Republican side experienced the same phenomenon: 51 percent said they are “less likely” to vote for Trump. Gallup also acknowledged that the next three months may
dramatically shift candidates’ favorability ratings, but these findings are still strong factors and may provide a foundation for future surveys. “These key election indicators suggest the Democrats are in a stronger electoral position than the Republicans, and Trump and the GOP have a little more than three months left to try to change that,” Jones said. Gallup also measured how voters rated each candidate’s acceptance speech, and, again, Clinton comes out on top. Trump’s speech, which, many critics have panned as factually incorrect and appealed to fear, was perceived as “Excellent/ Good” by 35 percent of participants; and, 36 percent saw his speech as “Poor/Terrible.” Clinton’s speech in which she attacked her opponent, delivered a week later was rated as “Excellent/Good” by 44 percent of participants. Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) voters follow the national trend of supporting the political left over the right. A recent study from Asian Ameri-
Duterte confirms US to give $32-M...
So buy more,” added Duterte, in reference to the military operations in Mindanao and the need to buy more weapons. On the other hand, Kerry opened up the issue on human rights violations, which are being questioned as the killings of alleged drug suspects continue throughout the country. However, Duterte abruptly told Kerry that he has “a job to do” and insisted to “go to another topic.” As of press time, 3,213 individuals allegedly involved with drugs have been arrested, while 239 have been killed by the Philippine National Police (PNP), according to GMA News. Last Wednesday, July 27,
presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella clarified that “there was no alarm” shown after Duterte informed Kerry about “the way he has been handling the war against crime and especially the narcotics plague.” Before meeting with the president, Kerry said, “I made it very clear that civil and human rights must be protected, even as we work together to keep our society safe.” Aside from issues of drugs, terrorism, crime and maritime security, the two also discussed motorcycles and hunting. “First, it was a courtesy call, it was a very interesting meeting because they share common interests,” the presidential spokesman commented.
Pres. Rodrigo Duterte received a courtesy call from US Secretary of State John Kerry in Malacañang last week. The two also talked about important issues, including the Supreme Court’s decision on the Enhanced Defense Cooperation (EDCA) agreement signed by the Philippines and the US and the arbitral tribunal’s ruling on the disputed West Philippine Sea. Malacañang photo
Bangladesh urges PH to return... PAGE A1 t
COURTESY CALL. H.E. John Gomes, Ambassador of Bangladesh to the Philippines, paid a courtesy call on the new Senate President, Aquilino “Koko”Pimentel III, to discuss ways to further promote Philippines-Bangladesh bilateral relations, particularly the recovery of the balance of $81-million taken from the Bangladesh Central Bank and moved to the Philippines. The Senate President also assured the Ambassador that the Philippines will help in the recovery of the money. “The Philippines should help Bangladesh because it could also happen to us,” Pimentel said. Senate photo by Albert Calvelo
opening during their 20-minute meeting at the Senate. The investigation was previously conducted from March to May, during the 16th Congress, lead by Sen. Teofisto Guingona. Pimentel said Gomes’s “one and only request’ was for the Senate to help Bangladesh recover the money stolen.
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cans Advancing Justice – Los Angeles (Advancing Justice – LA), APIA Vote and AAPI Data found that only 19 percent of AAPI voters held a positive view of Trump, who pales in comparison to Clinton who received 62 percent favorability among AAPI voters. Filipinos’ voter behavior coincides with the national and AAPI trends, with more Filipinos favoring Clinton at 59 percent over Trump’s 23 percent favorability, according to the Advancing Justice et al. study. The Gallup poll results were conducted in the days immediately following each convention. The poll gathered random samples of 1,000 adults across the country via telephone interviews conducted on July 23-24 following the RNC and July 2930 following the DNC. The margin of error was +4 percentage points and the each sample included a minimum quota of 60 percent cellphone respondents and 40 percent landline respondents. Researches utilized random digit dialing methods.
The hacking of the Bangladesh Bank happened sometime between Feb. 4 and 5 early this year when the bank’s offices were closed for the holiday. Unknown hackers used the SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) credentials of Bangladesh Central Bank em-
ern Hawaii Leisure Company and a personal Philippine National ployees to send a request asking Bank (PNB) bank account. the bank to transfer millions of the Last March 31, Wong turned Bangladesh Bank’s funds to bank $4.6 million over to the Antiaccounts in the Philippines, Sri Money Laundering Case (AMLC) Lanka and other parts of Asia. and an additional P38 million on They tried to steal nearly $1 April 4. billion from the Bangladesh $18 million of the total $81 Bank account and managed to million stolen has been recovtransfer $81 million to four ac- ered so far. n counts at Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) in Manila, which were credited to several accounts reportedly owned by casinos in the Philippines. The complaint from the AMLC said that “among four fictitious bank accounts with RCBC on Jupiter Street, Makati City where the $81 million in stolen money was remitted, $30.5 million was transferred to the account of Philrem (Philippine Remittance Ltd.),” according to a report from Inquirer. Sums of $18 million and $12.87 million (P600 M) were allegedly delivered to Chinese national Weikang Xu over a period of several days. Previous reports said casino junket operator Kim Wong got P1 billion through his firm East-
Fil-Aussie Jason Day finishes...
to win the championship. He had missed right on his second shot, but managed to escape the rough on his third shot and make two putts to clutch the championship. Day told reporters after the tournament that he was unaware that he was a three shots behind Walker; he thought he was two shots behind. Walker had led throughout the entire tournament, but he was
not surprised by Day’s dramatic efforts to snatch the title. “I was hoping to relax — I could have used it — but I wouldn’t have expected any less from Jason,” Walker said. This season, Day went into all four majors — the Masters, the U.S. Open, the Open Championship and the PGA Champion — as the world No. 1 and the favorite to win. Despite finishing as runner-up in each major this season, Day
Obama urges Republicans... PAGE A2 t pressed concern over Trump’s controversial comments, but none have withdrawn support. Obama said that he doesn’t “doubt that they were outraged” by Trump’s statements on the Khan family. “The question I think that they have to ask themselves is, if you are repeatedly having to say, in very strong terms, that what has said is unacceptable, why are you still endorsing him?” Obama said. Obama added that although he has disagreed with Republican presidents in the past, he said that he “didn’t have a doubt that they could function as president.” He added that had he lost to Mitt Romney in 2012 or McCain in 2008, he “would have been disappointed,” but would have had no doubt that they would “abide by certain norms and rules and common sense.”
The president said he does not see Trump as an accurate representation of a majority of the Republican Party, and that the party needs to discontinue validating his positions. On the same day Obama made his comments, a Republican congressperson from New York declared support for Hillary Clinton over Trump, calling the latter “deeply flawed in endless ways.” Rep. Richard Hanna (R-NY) justified his choice in an op-ed released on Tuesday, August 2, saying that Trump will further “alienate” the Republican Party from historically ostracized groups and will push the party to its extremes. “I have long held the belief that the Republican Party is becoming less capable of nominating a person who is electable as president,” Hanna wrote. “The primary process is geared toward the party’s political base,
remains the top-ranked golfer in the world. Day won the PGA Championship last year when he finished with a record 20 strokes under par. The Aussie first achieved the No. 1 ranking in September 2015. Following the 98th PGA Championship, Day had finished with the lowest cumulative score of all competitors who made the cut in all four majors, according to Golf Digest. which ignores the fact that we have largely alienated women, Hispanics, the LGBT community, young voters and many others in general.” In response to Trump’s harsh criticism toward the Khan family, 17 Gold Star families—families of servicemembers who died fighting for the country— have demanded an apology from the business mogul. They said that Trump’s comments attacking Ghazala Khan were “repugnant, and personally offensive.” “When you question a mother’s pain, by implying that her religion, not her grief, kept her from addressing an arena of people, you are attacking us,” the letter read. “When you say your job building buildings is akin to our sacrifice, you are attacking our sacrifice.” “You are minimizing the risk our service members make for all of us. This goes beyond politics. It is about a sense of decency,” it added. (Klarize Medenilla/AJ Press)
A AUGUST 3-5, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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Hepatitis testing and prevention information offered to Angelenos on World Hepatitis Day LOS ANGELES -- Angelenos learned how to protect themselves from viral hepatitis and received free on-site testing for Hepatitis B and C, HIV, and sexually-transmitted infections during a World Hepatitis Day event on Thursday, July 28. The event, held at St. Vincent Medical Center, was hosted by Hep B-Free Los Angeles and the Hepatitis C Task Force of Los Angeles County. These local organizations work with the World Health Organization and the World Hepatitis Alliance. “People with or at risk of viral hepatitis do not wear badges,” said Dr. Sammy Saab of the Pfleger Liver Insititute at Ronald Elsa De Belen, a 72-year-old Filipina who was killed after a car crashed into a home hosting a prayer meeting in Harbor Gateway, California Reagan UCLA Medical Center. Photo courtesy of the De Belen family “Screening and early intervention [are] critical. Working together we can eradicate viral hepatitis in our lifetime.” Approximately 400 million PAGE A1 t “She had the most hysterical station she had blacked out at the people worldwide are living with Eleven other people were hurt. and contagious laugh you’ll ever time of the accident. She turned Hepatitis B and/or C, but only 5 People nearby rushed to help hear … it was incredible,” Al De herself in at the 77th street po- percent are aware of their infecvictims pinned against the car Belen told the Asian Journal, lice station on Thursday, July 28. tion. Additionally, 1.4 million will before fire crews arrived. adding that “The whole family Norman is presently being held die from hepatitis annually, equivNeighbors and friends of De was devastated upon hearing at Century Regional Detention alent to 4,000 preventable deaths Belen described her as a de- the news, hoping that it was just Facility in Lynwood, California each day. vout Catholic who had hosted a bad dream.” on a $110,000 bail. prayer groups at her home for She faces one count of felony Private memorial services for years. She worked as a teach- De Belen will take place at Holy vehicular manslaughter and a er in the Philippines before Cross Mortuary and Cemetery misdemeanor charge for drivmanaging a doctor’s office in in Culver City. Her relatives ing with a revoked or suspended WASHINGTON, DC – OffiGardena for more than three have set up a GoFundMe page driver’s license. Norman has cials of the US Citizenship and decades. De Belen had moved to raise funds to cover funeral pled not guilty and is scheduled into her most recent commu- services. to appear in court on Wednes- Immigration Services are trynity about six or seven years The alleged driver, 34-year- day, August 10. If convicted, she ing to smooth out the process ago and lived alone. One of her old Rashanda Monique Norman, could serve as many as six years for the reunification of Filipino nephews said, “her laugh was identified herself as a transient in a state prison. (Eric Anthony veterans of World War II in the US and their relatives from the adored by all.” and told reporters for a local CBS Licas/AJPress)
Filipina in Harbor Gateway killed after car crashes...
The Hepatitis B virus, which attacks the liver, is 100 times more infectious than HIV/AIDS. It can cause lifelong (chronic) infection, cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, liver cancer, liver failure, and death. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine screening and vaccination for the virus in all individuals from high prevalence regions, including Asia, Africa and parts of South America. The Hepatitis C virus is the most common chronic bloodborne viral infection and the most common cause of chronic liver disease in the U.S. Approximately 3.2 million Americans are infected with this virus, and are at risk of developing cirrhosis and liver cancer. Most individuals who have this virus are not aware they are infected, and most with acute infection show no symptoms. Liver cancer is one of the most common cancers in Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) in California; in the U.S. as a whole, AAPIs have the highest rate of liver cancer of any racial/ethnic group. Among men, it is the most
common cancer in Cambodians and Laotians, the second most common among Vietnamese, the third most common among Hmong, fourth among Chinese and Pacific Islanders, and fifth among Koreans and Filipinos. Los Angeles advocates are part of a network of hepatitis advocates worldwide who work to reduce new infections by over 90 percent, to break the stigma that keeps one in three silent about their condition and often left untreated, to reduce mortality by 65 percent, and ultimately to save 7.1 million lives by 2030 worldwide. In the United States, viral hepatitis is a leading infectious cause of death, and this is entirely preventable. Vaccination can prevent the transmission of the Hepatitis B virus, while screening can reduce suffering and death. “Far too many Americans — approximately 4 million — are infected with Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C, and the majority of these individuals don’t know it,” said Howard K. Koh, M.D., M.P.H., assistant secretary for health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (AJPress)
US trying to make Filvets parole program ‘user-friendly’
Filipino-American community member asking questions to the guest panelists during the open forum of the Philippine Embassy’s Talakayan on the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program held at the Romulo Hall of the Philippine Embassy on Thursday, July 28.
Philippines, USCIS representatives told Filipino-American community members and veterans’ rights advocates. “We are always looking for ways to streamline this program and to make it more user-friendly and make the processes quickest as we can,” Allison Kent of the USCIS stated at a Talakayan on July 28 at the Romulo Hall of the Philippine Embassy on the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program. In July 2015, the White House released the report “Modernizing and Streamlining Our Legal Immigration System for the 21st Century” that announced the parole policy to enable eligible individuals to provide support and care to their aging veteran family members who are US citizens or lawful permanent residents. Since last June 8, USCIS has started to allow certain Filipino World War II veteran family members who are beneficiaries of approved family-based immigrant visa petitions a chance to receive a discretionary grant of parole on a case-by-case basis, so that they may come to the United States as they wait for their immigrant visa to become available. “This is a victory for us and it matters for our veterans and for their families. It matters for Filipinos and Filipino Americans and it matters for Americans who know that their country is trying to do right in the face of historic injustice,” said Atty. Marita Etcubañez, director of strategic initiatives in the Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAAJ), the largest legal and civil rights organization for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in the United States. Additionally, Philippine Consul General Emilio Fernandez pointed out that “The parole program’s implementation this year coincides with our two countries’ 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations. This cer-
tainly is an added milestone to our long established ties.” Etcubañez and Fernandez were joined on the panel by USCIS officials Stephanie Kwan and Kent, as well as immigration lawyer Januario Azarcon. The speakers addressed issues related to the implementation of the program. Ravi Chaudhary, a member of President Obama’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, hailed the parole program as a fulfillment of America’s promise to Filipino World War II veterans. “We have work to do, work to ensure that our Filipino veterans get the recognition they deserve for the sacrifices that they made. We are in it with you. We will remember you and we will not forget you. We are going to work and get this done, and that is a commitment that our President has made and will continue to do so,” Chaudhary stressed. Sonny Busa, regional director of the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetREP), closed the program by issuing a call to action to Metro DC residents to push their district representatives to sign on to the bill that seeks to award a US Congressional Gold Medal, collectively, to the 260,000 Filipino veterans in recognition of their dedicated service during World War II. The Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015 was already passed by the US Senate and awaiting to receive the required number of signatures at the House of Representatives. The proposed legislation will also recognize US commanders and servicemen who served in the Philippines during the war. The Talakayan sa Embahada is a regular outreach program of the Philippine Embassy to engage the FilipinoAmerican community. This Talakayan was organized with the support of FilVetRep. (Inquirer.net)
Consul General Emilio Fernandez, AAAJ Director Atty. Marita Etcubañez, USCIS officials Ms. Allison Kent and Ms. Stephanie Kwan, Immigration lawyer Atty. Januario Azarcon, and Commissioner Ravi Chaudhary were the panelists at the Talakayan on the WWII Veterans Visa Parole Program held at the Romulo Hall of the Philippine Embassy. Inquirer.net contributed photos
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PNP chief: ‘We value lives’
really innocent, it pains us too if innocent lives were dragged into this, we’re humans too. We value PhiliPPine national Police lives, we want to preserve lives),” (PnP) Director General Ronald Rappler quoted Dela Rosa. “Bato” Dela Rosa admitted on he pointed out that the poMonday, August 1, that it is ‘pain- lice does not want people to get ful for police to be accused of killed and challenged the accuskilling innocent people,’ as they ers to prove that they’re really continue their campaign against innocent. illegal drugs. “i-prove nila, kasi masakit naSince the present administra- man sa aming mga pulis na lagi tion has been cracking down on nalang ina-accuse ng ganoon. eh illegal drugs, inquirer has report- nagtratrabaho na nga yung pued 467 deaths nationwide. lis, inaaccuse pa ng ganoon. eh “Kung inosente yan, masakit yung pulis na yan, may mga anak rin sa amin kung may madisgra- rin ‘yan eh. May mga pamilya rin sya na inosente, eh pareho tay- ‘yan (They should prove those along tao. We value lives, we want legations because it’s also painful to preserve lives… (If they were for police to be accused of killing
innocent people because they’re working hard. Police have children too. They have families too),” he added. As of July 25, the Commission on human Rights (ChR) has been investigating and reviewing 103 cases of extrajudicial killings related to the anti-illegal drugs campaign. there were 39 cases in nCR; 27 cases in Region i; 15 cases in Region ii; 13 cases in the Cordillera Administrative Region; and nine cases in Region Xii. it includes cases where suspects were killed in the middle of a police operation, or by an unidentified assailant, according to the Philippine Center for investigative Journalism. As the number of casualties continued to increase, Dela Rosa stressed that he does not conDARK SIDE OF DRUG WAR. Stuck in a swamp of trash in the middle of an estero is the shanty of Michael Siaron and his wife, Jennilyn Olayres, done vigilantism. at Barangay 145 in Santo Nino, Pasay City. Siaron, a suspected drug pusher who was shot dead by motorcycle-riding gunmen, was the “Kung kayo tao, nasasaktan… subject of a stirring Inquirer photograph that has sparked calls for a stop to summary executions amid a government campaign against ang pulis tao, nasasaktan. At illegal drugs. Inquirer.net photo by Raffy Lerma kami’y nagmamahal sa aming kapwa. Ayaw talaga namin may masaktan unnecessarily (if you get hurt, police get hurt too. We care for our fellowmen. We don’t want them to get hurt unnecessarily),” Dela Rosa said. Dela Rosa claimed that policemen were professional enough not to mistake innocent people as suspects during operations of Global Ferronickel holdings, regulations. by Klarize MeDenilla against illegal drugs. Duterte added that he may inc., told Reuters. “And we are AJPress last week, President Rodrigo “forego” the annual PhP 40 bil- contributing so much to the naDuterte denounced extrajudicial PReSiDent Rodrigo Duterte lion revenue produced by the tional economy and local develSEEING DOUBLE. Philippine National Police chief Ronald de la Rosa introduces“PO1 Bato,” the killings and said that it would be has pressured the country’s min- mining industry, saying that the opment. So, i think we should be official mascot of the PNP. The mascot entertained policemen and other PNP personnel when put “under control.” he danced after the flag raising ceremony in Camp Crame Monday. ManilaTimes.net photo ing companies to strictly comply country “will survive without” treated fairly.” lopez was appointed by with the environmental regula- mining companies. Speaking out against the strict Duterte on June 30 and replaced tions or risk shutting down. “We will survive as a nation regulations, mining companies Ramon Paje from the former without you,” Duterte said dur- have asserted that they are un- President Benigno Aquino iii’s administration. Upon accepting ing a press briefing at Mala- justly being singled out. “the industry is using less the appointment, lopez said she canang on Monday, August 1. sure that you will be unmasked,” ing day, the PnP received a total by Dana SiSon “either you follow [strict] gov- than 20,000 hectares out of the did not just want to push regulaof 2,475 calls -- only 75 were le- Dela Rosa told GMA news. AJPress “i am also appealing to our ernment standards or you close 30 million hectares comprising tions, but she also wants to “adgitimate while a total of 304 were the total land area in the Philip- dress poverty” by way of natural MAnilA —the Philippine pranks and the remaining 1,119 people to refrain from making down.” Duterte came to the defense pines,” Dante Bravo, president prank calls or test calls to our 911 national Police (PnP) officially were dropped calls. u PAGE A7 the following day, the emer- hotline because this will clog up of Regina “Gina” lopez, secrelaunched the Philippines’ 911 emergency response hotline on gency hotline received 70 calls the lines and prevent the people tary of the Department of envirequesting ambulance service, with real emergencies to reach ronment and natural Resources Monday, August 1. (DenR), an anti-mining “crusadManned with 45 call center 63 reports on illegal drugs, 63 us.” President Rodrigo Duterte or- er” who has been auditing minagents, 911 is a 24-hour nation- requests for police assistance wide hotline that dispatches emer- and 59 reports of car accidents. dered the issuance of the emer- ing sites that have been disobeygency responses related to police, Other calls were categorized as gency hotline nationwide after its ing regulations since July 8. “You try to castigate Gina losuccess in Davao City where he nuisances. fire, and medical emergencies. Dela Rosa requested the pub- served as mayor for seven terms. pez for being strict, and yet you PnP chief Director General telecommunications provider destroy the land, destroy the soil, Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa said that lic to refrain from ‘testing’ the as of now, the initial responders hotline and sending prank calls, PlDt and its subsidiaries Smart and then you get rich,” Duterte warning that those guilty will be and ePlDt have promised to pro- added. would be PnP personnel only. the Philippines has since shut vide free access to the emergenCallers may expect a response apprehended. “We are currently tracking the cy hotline while Globe will charge down operations of seven nickel in around 5-10 minutes. As of 12:01pm on its launch- prank callers and we will make u PAGE A7 mines for failing to comply with by Dana
SiSon
AJPress
Duterte warns mining companies: PH will survive without you Defends environmental secretary
PH launches 911 emergency hotline
A AUGUST 3-5, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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OpiniOn
Features
Turnaround
AMID President Rodrigo Duterte’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs, the Philippine National Police (PNP) proudly reported that the country has also seen a downward trend in crime in the first half of 2016. “We are seeing the reduction of street crimes, particularly crimes against property metro-wide,” Chief Supt. Oscar Albayalde said. Albayalde said that the significant decline in Metro Manila’s crime was due to the implementation of “Oplan Tokhang” and “Double Barrel,” the government’s drive against illegal drugs. According to Inquirer.net, “Oplan Double Barrel” is the government’s blueprint for its drug war, which supposedly involves exposing the “upper barrel” to capture “high-value” and supply-side targets; and the “lower barrel” to eliminate “lowvalue” and demand-side targets. “Tokhang,” which was first launched in Davao City in 2012, is a combination of “toktok” or knock and “hangyo” or to plead or request. In the last month, authorities have reported a total of 402 drugs suspects killed, 5,418 suspects arrested and 565,806 others who have surrendered. Albayalde said that the weekly crime trend data from July 1- 19, 2016 reflected the significant decrease of street crimes compared with the data recorded on the first semester of 2016. Other forms of index crimes against persons and properties correlated to illegal drugs have also been reduced. Meanwhile, beginning this week, an emergency 911 hotline has been formally activated to immediately provide police assistance to the people. The
24 hour-hotline is also available for fire and medical emergencies. Since its activation, various calls for emergencies were received by the emergency hotline, such as ambulance assistance, vehicular accidents, petty harassment and civil disturbances, drag racing, drinking in public places, and drug pushing, among others. It seems that the PNP will help the president fulfill his promise of suppressing illegal drugs and criminality in the country within three to six months. The agency also vowed to clean up its ranks. Of the 16,000 police officers drug tested, 11 were found positive. They were relieved from their posts and now under investigation. While these recent reports have been fairly positive, it would also be good for both the PNP and the government to look into the recent spike in killings of suspected drug dealers and users unidentified gunmen. This alleged vigilante killings incited fear among the citizenry. Currently, the country has 160,000 policemen manning the streets for a population of 102.3 million or a ratio of one cop for every 640 people. For the PNP to further ensure the public’s safety and purging misfits from the streets, policemen must be reminded to perform their duties based on respect for the sanctity of life and human rights. (AJPress)
Editorial
ManilaTimes.net photo
Could this be the beginning of the end of Trump’s sprint to the White House? DONALD Trump’s millions of loyal ardent followers, many of whom are Filipinos in America, would even question the title of this piece as they believe in their hearts that he can indeed “make America great again.” There are kababayans who find it unfathomable how there are people who could not see beyond what they call lies the liberals are spewing against Trump. They say the real estate billionaire is the best candidate and best leader America could ever have, compared to Obama, Clinton, Sanders, and any other Democrat. But the liberals and those who affiliate themselves with the Democratic Party are not the only ones speaking out against Trump these days, especially in light of his comments criticizing the parents of Army Capt. Humayun Khan, who was killed in the line of duty in Baghdad in 2004. Many people from within the party he is supposed to represent have distanced themselves from his comments, while members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and a group of Goldstar families (an organization founded by individuals who lost family members in the Iraq war) have demanded an apology. The father Khizr Khan gave a speech at last week’s Democratic National Convention against Trump’s plan to ban Muslims in America. The elder Khan
said the plan denigrates the ultimate The Fil-Am sacrifice their son and many other men in Perspective uniform made for the United States when they offered their own lives for this country Gel SantoS-reloS they love. Khan claimed Trump “sacrificed nothing and no one,” and this prompted the Republican presidential nominee to retaliate and even speculate why Khan’s wife Ghazala did not even speak up during the convention to deliver her own remarks. In an opinion article published by the Washington Post, Ms. Khan wrote, “All the world, all America, felt my pain. I am a Gold Star mother. Whoever saw me felt me in their heart.” “Donald Trump has children whom he loves. Does he really need to wonder why I did not speak?” she added. Ms. Khan further said Mr. Trump was “ignorant” of Islam and criticized him for offering his business career as evidence that he had sacrificed for his country. “Donald Trump said he has made a lot of sacrifices,” Ms. Khan said. “He doesn’t know what the word sacrifice means.” The New York Times reported how Mr. and Ms. Khan stiffened their denunciation of Trump, saying on the TV show “Meet the Press” on NBC last
Sunday that Trump lacked the moral character and empathy to be president. Mr. Khan said Trump had shown disrespect to his wife, and he accused the Republican nominee of running a campaign “of hatred, of derision, of dividing us.” Mr. Khan made his appeal on “Meet the Press” to the “patriotic Americans that would probably vote for Donald Trump,” saying “I appeal to them not to vote for hatred, not to vote for fearmongering. Vote for unity. Vote for the goodness of this country.” Trump tweeted on Monday, Aug. 1 that Khan “viciously attacked me from the stage of the DNC and is now all over T.V. doing the same.” He then continued the barrage of comments against Khan on Twitter and in interviews, arguing that he has done a lot of sacrifices as a businessman. He and his surrogates contended that Khan’s remarks against him are just being exploited for political expediency. But many leaders of the Republican Party do not agree with Trump and have been very public about their denouncement of Trump’s statements. They condemned Trump’s treatment of the Khans and as the New York Times reported, these leaders have called “his
Hillary Clinton
behavior outside the bounds of political discourse.” In a statement released last Monday, Sen. John McCain accused Donald Trump of defaming Khizr Khan and argued the Republican presidential candidate does not represent the GOP. “While our Party has bestowed upon him the nomination, it is not accompanied by unfettered license to defame those who are the best among us,” McCain said. Military veterans in Congress even urged House Speaker Paul Ryan to drop his endorsement of Trump. Recent polls reveal that Democratic
presidential nominee Hillary Clinton has widened her lead over Trump after the Democratic National Convention, with an 8, even 9 percent margin. Is this ominous for Trump’s presidential ambitions? Do you support Donald Trump’s statement? Do you agree that he went too far? *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are 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
Mr. Duterte is still grappling with 20th century problems
Opinion
Marlen ronquillo THe flag was hoisted in 1946, yes, but we had 400 years under Spain and a half a century of Coke and Hollywood. Around 450 years of Old europe and North America, the two, true Great Powers after Rome. Our civilization, even with the relative newness of the Republic, is an ancient one. In the ideal world, a civilization that old would have built itself up into a 21st century powerhouse with concerns more focused on R&D, innovation. developing the next life-changing app, or writing the next big idea that would change the planet for good. At this stage, the landscape shall have been littered with technology corridors, smart and selfsustaining cities, a pool of nerds just as capable of designing the next space voyager to Mars. In the ideal world, a president’s SONA should have focused on entirely and strictly 21st century
concerns such as where to retire the shuttles we have used for our moon landings. Or, what should be our positioning for the challenges – and opportunities — of the next century. Remember that Singapore was a poor appendage of Malaysia at the time we were the 2nd fastest-growing economy in Asia after Japan. We are not yet in the 21st century, unfortunately and tragically. Listening to the SONA of Mr. Duterte, one who truly loves our country would feel a sense of deep depression. What kind of governing context made the President deal with age-old problems in a SONA delivered in the 21st century? Why was he talking about the problems of the mid-20th century such us intractable poverty and small fishermen crowded out by fish pen operators at a dying lake? Or, of miners still engaged in gouging the earth to despoil the environment? Or, traffic jams at the scale of Lagos or Karachi? In a sense, you can only pity
Mr. Duterte as he spoke from his powerful perch? You wished the topics were different. I wrote this after I washed the dung off pig pens at a nearbankrupt backyard hog farm — and with the neighboring farms tilled by men with hoes. The 21st century has not dawned on us – and much of the entire archipelago. What factors and what personalities made him inherit this ghastly legacy of grief and underdevelopment? Mr. Duterte is not inclined to look back and blame others. What matters, he said, is the present and the future. He is man enough to man up to the problems not of his own making. That is a welcome change from the blameless leader we have had before him. But we can’t really move on without examining the systemic failures that made the SONA of Mr. Duterte more about correcting fast failures than hoping about the future. We have to ask the question. Why are small fishermen crowd-
ed out by fish pen operators in a dying lake still our narrative in the age of Twitter? And why is this deprivation still our story for the 21st century? We all wish the narratives at his SONA would have been radically different. We wish for issues that truly belong to the 21st century: smart cities, massive R&D funding, modern urban rail networks for the cities, high-speed trains and modern buses for the provinces, the gentrification of the grimiest slum colonies and agricultural outputs that are triple the current yields. The problem is we can’t wish those deeply-rooted 20th century problems away. I think you have also noticed that Mr. Duterte, through the process of induction, segued from the problems of dying communal fishing grounds and hollowed-out mining sites into the age-old problems of communist insurgency and the Muslim rebellion in the South. And out of these problems came the most memorable line of his SONA. “I want the peace
of the living,” he said. It is both painful and depressing (and embarrassing) for the nation to hear a popularly elected president still tied up to the agenda of stilling guns and searching for the elusive lasting peace. But what is his option if not to confront these 20th century realities that still hobble the country. The good thing is Mr. Duterte acknowledges that these problems of great antiquity exists and he is ready to deal with these. The good intentions of Mr. Duterte, impulsive as they may seem, are not apparently enough and there is little hope that the “peace of the living” that was the central theme of the president’s SONA will find fulfillment soon. The concessions to the Left, hopeful in the first few days of his presidency, are about to be deserted by their better angels. An unfortunate ambush of militias forced Mr. Duterte to call off the ceasefire with the Revolutionary Left, whose above ground leaders
are in his Cabinet. Now, the search for the “peace of the living” is back to square one. Now, Mr. Duterte is in between a rock and a hard place. Will he continue the confidence-building measures and his genuine efforts to reach out to the Left? Or, will he succumb to the militarist urges and order and all-out offensive against the army of the Left? The setback of the peace process will chain the Duterte administration into the bitter, long-drawn, bloody insurgency problem of the 20th century. The dream to escape from the morass of strife and underdevelopment – and position the government for 21st century issues for once — will be buried once more in the graveyard of our own follies. Against the incessant advice for an all-out war with the Left, we are praying that Mr. Duterte will be guided by his better angels and still pursue his dream of “peace of the living.” (ManilaTimes.net)
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Dateline PhiliPPines
LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 3-5, 2016
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Peace talks slated for August despite failed ceasefire by Eric
Anthony LicAs AJPress
Despite complications around a short-lived ceasefire, leaders on both sides of the decades-long conflict between the philippine government and Maoist rebels hope peace talks scheduled for August 20-27 in Oslo, Norway can end hostilities. president Rodrigo Duterte reiterated his commitment to ending 47 years of fighting between the government and leftist insurgents on Monday, August 1. He also announced plans to release two detained leaders of the Communist party of the philippines (Cpp). the decision to free Benito and Wilma tiamzon from government custody serves as an olive branch to the communists after the president rescinded a unilateral ceasefire on saturday, July 30. the president had just declared the truce on Monday, July 25, but later issued an ultimatum threatening its cancellation after the military component of the Cpp ambushed philippine troops on Wednesday, July 27. Government soldiers triggered a landmine planted by the New people’s Army (NpA), resulting in a skirmish that left one government militiaman dead and four wounded in Davao del Norte, according to philstar. NpA spokesperson Aris Francisco said the rebels were acting in self-defense.
“Had the Red fighters not taken the initiative to actively defend themselves ... Armed Forces of the philippines (AFp) troops would have carried out their own combat action and inflicted damage against the NpA unit,” said Francisco. Following the ambush, Duterte announced that Maoist insurgents had until 5 p.m. on saturday, July 30 to implement a corresponding ceasefire before his administration revoked their offer of a truce. the Cpp declined to meet the president’s deadline, prompting the military to resume operations against community rebels, AFp chief Lt. Gen. Ricardo Visaya announced on sunday, July 31. On Monday, police and AFp soldiers killed one rebel fighter during sporadic fighting with NpA forces allegedly committing extortion in Malimono, surigao del Norte. in a statement released on sunday, the rebels said they would not be “browbeaten” into a ceasefire while AFp soldiers “showed no plans of letting up in their search-and-destroy operations and frenzied offensives that terrorize civilian communities.” However, Cpp representatives also declared their support for the reinitiation of peace negotiations with the philippine government slated later this month. they said they were open to declaring a ceasefire when talks reopen on August 20th; Duterte
mirrored that proposal for the AFp on Monday. More than 150,000 people have died since the armed conflict began between the government and the NpA. Numerous attempts at reconciliation going as far back as the presidency of Cory Aquino in 1986 had all broken down for various reasons. Most recently, talks between Maoists and the previous administration of president Benigno Aquino iii came apart after he refused Cpp demands to free over 500 Cpp officials held by the government like the tiamzons. in June, during an informal prelude to the coming negotiations, representatives of the president’s cabinet made promises to release some of those prisoners. Other gestures, like the inclusion of Cpp allies in Duterte’s cabinet, have left some rebel leaders optimistic about the coming talks. However, during a town hall meeting hosted by Bayan UsA and other leftist organizations in Los Angeles on saturday, July 23, Jose Maria sison, the founder of the Cpp, noted that Duterte had made “contradictory statements in the past and promised a measured response.” “the peace talks will test what the Duterte Government is really made of,” said sison. “so long as there are gains made face to face, then the peace negotiations will move on.”
resources and environmental protection. Lopez has made it a priority to reform the country’s mining industry. “You can’t build an economy based on suffering and injustice. it isn’t right. the poorest sites in the country are mining areas,” Lopez told Rappler in June. On July 12, she expressed the need to reform the philippine Mining Act of 1995 which she called “unfair” and “skewed towards the mining sector and not towards the people.” “We have to change [the law],” she said in a radio interview. “Mining companies say they’re
giving to the economy. What? Out of pHp 35 billion net, pHp 29 billion goes to the mining company, only pHp 6 billion goes to the country, and out of the pHp 6 billion, a very small amount goes to the community, like almost nothing.” On Wednesday, July 27, Lopez outwardly denounced the project from mining company sagittarius Mines, inc. the p5.9 billion project — called tampakan Copper-Gold project — will cause significant environmental damage, according to Lopez. “it’s a 700-football field openpit mine on top of rice fields and agricultural lands affecting four provinces and six rivers,” Lopez told the media. “Why do we even
Pacquiao backs Duterte, favors death penalty by MAiLA
AgEr Inquirer.net
Duterte’s assumption in office. some of the drug suspects, anyway, he said, were killed by drug lords and not by law enforcers. “Hindi naman ako nababahala (I’m not worried),” pacquiao said when asked if he was not concerned about the spate of killings. “Nababahala ako dahil may mga anak ako, nababahala ako ‘pag hindi nalutas yung krimen sa droga; napaka-importante ‘yun (I’m concerned because I have children, I’m concerned if crime and drugs aren’t resolved; those are the most important).” “Now, i realize everything na talagang kaya nilagay si Digong na maging presidente dahil ganoon na pala katalamak ang droga sa pilipinas. (Now, I realized that Duterte was placed as President because drugs are really rampant in the Philippines).” “siguro, sa tingin ko ha, kung iba lang ang naging president at hindi ganito kalakas ang campaign sa pagsugpo ng droga, hindi natin malalaman kung gano kalaki ang droga sa pilipinas. imagine kahit na doon sa sulok ng mga barangay ang daming droga so siguro kung hindi naging presidente si Digong tapos patuloy na laganap ang droga, maraming magiging sira-ulo sa
pResiDeNt Rodrigo Duterte made another push for the reimposition of the death penalty when he met senator Manny pacquiao at Malacañang on Monday, Aug. 1. pacquiao said his one-on-one meeting with the president lasted about an hour. He said he sought the meeting to find out the president’s direction and how he could help the government in its fight against crimes and illegal drugs. “Hinihiling niya sa taumbayan na ‘yung death penalty ay kailangang maipasa na para makatulong din (He is asking from the public for death penalty to be passed in order to help),” the senator told reporters on tuesday, Aug. 2, quoting the president. consider it? i don’t like it at all.” “Gusto talaga niya na may death in another move to regulate penalty at syempre ako rin, gusto the mining industry, Duterte apko rin (He really wants death penpointed Mario Luis J. Jacinto as alty to be reimposed and of course the new director of the Mines I do, too),” pacquiao said. and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), the senator also backed the according to a statement on the government’s drive against ilbureau’s website. legal drugs, saying he was more Jacinto will oversee the impleconcerned if the drug problems mentation of the bureau’s new would not be resolved, and not on programs and has authority the sudden rise of alleged extrajuover the environmental Mandicial killings in the country since agement Bureau (eMB). He will work closely with Lopez in all projects pertaining to the MGB and eMB. Before taking office, Duterte had warned mining companies PAGE A5 t Center hotline, which is directed to “shape up” and be more vigi- p5 per call to the hotline. to Duterte himself. lant in matters of environmental By using the 8888 number, citithe government also launched preservation. n the 8888 All-Citizen Complaint zens may report their concerns
Duterte warns mining companies.... PAGE A5 t
NEOPHYTE LISTENS TO VETERAN. Neophyte Senator Manny Pacquiao listens intently to words of advice from Senator Kiko Pangilinan before the start of the plenary session on Monday, Aug. 1. Senate photo by Cesar Tomambo
pamamagitan ng bisyo,” he added. (Maybe, in my opinion, if we had a different President and the campaign against drugs isn’t this strong, we might not know how big the problem of drugs is in the Philippines. Imagine, even in the corners of the villages, there are a lot of drugs, so if Duterte wasn’t President and drugs are still rampant, many people would lose their sanity because of drugs.) pacquiao insisted that the president and the police had not violated the law with their intensified campaign against crimes and illegal drugs. “Katulad ng sinabi ko, si presidente at ang kapulisan natin, ayaw nilang lumabag sa batas at sinusunod nila yung due process na bigyan ng proseso ang mga tao; at saka katulad ng sinabi ko, ‘yung mga pinapatay nila… ‘yung mga pinapatay ng mga drug lord ‘yung mga tao nila kasi syempre magsusumbong yan e. (Like what I said, the President and the police force don’t want to break the law and they follow due process; and like I said, the ones they’re killing… the ones that the drug lords kill are their men because they can report to authorities),” he said.
PH launches 911 emergency... and complaints regarding corrupt or underperforming officials and unfinished government projects. n
A AUGUST 3-5, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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BUSINESS& COMMUNITY Journal
More US investors drawn to infrastructure, says Amb. Cuisia
by Richmond
meRcuRio Philstar.com
MANILA - The Philippines is looking to attract more American investments than its regional counterparts as the new administration heightens its bid to bolster infrastructure development. “We’ve seen significant increase in terms of trade and investments and we are confident we will continue to see that,” outgoing Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia Jr. said.
Cuisia said US investments in ASEAN amount to almost $200 billion, with the Philippines owning “a very small portion of it.” “But we hope we will see a greater investment in the Philippines because the US Secretary of Commerce is pushing more US firms to be more involved in the infrastructure sector. And that of course is where we have a huge demand,” he said. The Duterte administration is planning to hike infrastructure spending to P900 billion next
Inquirer.net photo
year and boost it further to as much as seven percent of GDP by 2022. The state of the country’s infrastructure, particularly its airports and mass transportation, are regarded among the worst in the region. Outgoing US Ambassador Philip Goldberg said the Philippines continues to be an attractive place for foreign companies because of its workforce. Goldberg, however, said efforts to open up more foreign
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PH emerging as winner in FDI at a multi-decade high of $8 billion as of end-April, up from $6 billion in 2015 and $1 billion just MANILA - The Philippines five years ago. is emerging as a clear winner This helped the Philippines among members of the Associa- surpass the FDI inflows in Thaition of Southeast Asian Nations land. (ASEAN) in attracting foreign diIt added Japan and the US are rect investments (FDIs) as China key drivers behind the increase, becomes a less attractive desti- while inflows are concentrated nation for inflows, Credit Suisse in the manufacturing and the fisaid in a report. nance industry. The investment bank said FDI Credit Suisse said Vietnam inflow in the Philippines is now also continued to be an FDI magby LawRence
agcaoiLi Philstar.com
net, attracting manufacturing investments especially from South Korea on the back of generous tax incentives and still relatively cheap labor. Likewise, it added Malaysia’s FDI inflows remained surprisingly resilient despite political uncertainty in recent years. However, Malaysia is likely to sustain the robust inward FDI due to the lack of reform momentum. Credit Suisse noted weaken-
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LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • AUgUSt 3-5, 2016
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(OMEOWNERS 3TOP STRESSING EVERY MONTH WITH PAYMENTS YOU CANNOT AFFORD ,OWER MONTHLY PAYMENTS BY OR MORE TYPICAL 2EDUCE INTEREST RATE WITHOUT REFINANCING 2EDUCE PRINCIPAL BALANCE IF QUALIFIED !PPLY EVEN IF YOU VE BEEN DENIED BEFORE OR APPROVED AND THEN DEFAULTED AGAIN
818-408-6717
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What’s New Arlene Al-os, CPA, MBA The IRS announced a major expansion of its “Fresh Start” initiative to help struggling taxpayers by providing: • Payment plans - more taxpayers can apply without financial statements. • Offer in Compromise OIC - IRS added flexible terms and guidelines for higher collection potential. We will explore OIC in our next article. When you owe taxes and cannot pay all now, more payments plan options. Short-Term Payment Plan or Full Payment Agreement Up To 120-Days • Consider short-term payment plan if you cannot pay immediately but you can pay in full up to 120days. • There is no user fee, but penalties and interest continues until owed liabilities are paid in full. In-Business Trust Fund express Installment Agreement or IBTFexpress IA • For small businesses with employees may qualify for IBTF-express IA. • Application do not require financial statement and verification. Installment Agreement Payments Plan • An installment agreement is an alternative if you cannot pay all of your tax debts when due. • Fresh Start provisions allow you to use streamlined installment agreements to catch up on back
Business news
Do you owe taxes and cannot pay now? taxes. • The threshold for using an installment agreement without having to supply the IRS with a financial statements has been increased to$50,000 from $25,000. The preparation of financial statements requires time and could be costly if you hire a professional. • Taxpayers who owe up to $50,000 in back taxes will now be able to enter into a streamlined agreement with the IRS that stretches the payment out over a series of years. • The streamlined installment agreement terms has been increased to 72 months from 60 months. • Taxpayers looking for installment agreements exceeding $50,000 will still need to supply Collection Information Statement Form 433-A and Form 433-B for businesses. • TIP: If you owe more than $50,000, pay it down to $50,000 to take advantage of this payment option. • You must agree to monthly direct debit payments. • You can go to the On-line Payment Agreement OPA page on IRS.gov to set up a payment plan. • Penalties are reduced but interest continues to accrue on the outstanding balance. These initiatives are intended to aid businesses and individuals pay back taxes with less burdens. These changes supplement a number of efforts to aid taxpayers who are struggling. Former IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman stated that the main goal is to help people meet their obligations and get back on their feet financially. TIPS - Here are some ob-
servations from experience of processing OICs and Payment Plans: • If you are young, healthy, and have good earning potential, your offer will possibly get rejected by the IRS. • You have a better chance at an OIC if you are retired, do not have sufficient assets, have existing serious medical condition, or are simply surviving now and in the future,. • If in doubt, give it a try even if the chance that your offer may be rejected is high. • Dual approach could workapply for both Offer in Compromise and Installment Agreement. If your OIC fails, then proceed with an Installment agreement. • The advantage when you do dual approach: You prepare documents and forms only once for both OIC and payments plan. It will save you time, money, and stress as well as tax representation fees. • Finally, convince the IRS that they are better off getting something from you now, rather than for nothing when you are permanently gone... something beyond your control. In accordance with IRS Circular 230, this communication is not to be considered a “covered opinion” or other written tax advice and should not be relied upon for IRS audit, tax dispute, or any other purpose. *** Sy Al-os 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)
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Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes CARegIveRS are presumptively disqualified from being named as beneficiary of a patient’s Will or Trust. Probate Code Section 21350, subdivision (a) provides: “except as provided in Section 21351, no provision, or provisions, of any instrument shall be valid to make any donative transfer to any of the following: ...(6) A care custodian of a dependent adult who is the transferor.” A “disqualified person” under the statute “means a person specified in subdivision (a) of Section 21350, but only in cases where Section 21351 does not apply.” (§ 21350.5.) Other presumptively disqualified donees under section 21350(a), include: the drafter of the instrument; the drafter’s relative, domestic partner, cohabitant, or employee; the drafter’s law partner or shareholder; an employee of the law partnership or corporation in which the drafter has an interest; one having a fiduciary relationship with the donor (including a conservator or trustee), who transcribes or causes the instrument to be transcribed; such fiduciary’s relative, employee, domestic partner, or cohabitant; and a relative of, domestic partner of, employee of, or a cohabitant with, a care custodian of the donor who is a dependent adult. (§ 21350(a).) The statute defines the terms
Caregivers are presumptively disqualified to be named as beneficiary in a patient’s will or trust with ‘certain exceptions’ “dependent adult” and “care custodian” as follows: “For purposes of this section, the term ‘dependent adult’ has the meaning as set forth in Section 15610.23 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and also includes those persons who (1) are older than age 64 and (2) would be dependent adults, within the meaning of Section 15610.23, if they were between the ages of 18 and 64. The term ‘care custodian’ has the meaning as set forth in Section 15610.17 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.” (§ 21350, subd. (c).) “‘Instrument’ is broadly defined in Probate Code section 45 as ‘a will, trust, deed, or other writing that designates a beneficiary or makes a donative transfer of property.’ ” (Rice v. Clark (2002) 28 Cal.4th 89, 97, fn. 4, 120 Cal.Rptr.2d 522, 47 P.3d 300.) however, there is an exception to the presumptive disqualification of care custodian as beneficiary in a Will or a Trust. The presumption of invalidity of donative transfers to specified individuals under section 21350(a)-including transfers to care custodians of dependent adults-does not apply, , where “[t]he instrument is reviewed by an independent attorney who (1) counsels the client (transferor) about the nature and consequences of the intended transfer, (2) attempts to determine if the intended consequence is the result of fraud, menace, duress, or undue influence, and (3) signs and delivers to the transferor an original certificate ... with a copy delivered to the drafter.” (§ 21351(b).) This “Certificate of Independent Review” must state that the attorney: reviewed the instrument; counseled the client/transferor concerning the nature and consequences of the subject transfer of property to the presumptively disqualified person under section 21350; was disassociated from any interest in the transferee; and concluded that the transfer to the presumptively disqualified person was valid because it was “not the product of fraud, menace, duress, or undue influ-
ence.” (§ 21351(b).) The intent of section 21350 was “to prevent unscrupulous persons in fiduciary relationships from obtaining gifts from elderly persons through undue influence or other overbearing behavior. [Citation.]” Bank of America v. Angel view Crippled Children’s Foundation (1999) 72 Cal.App.4th 451, 456, 85 Cal.Rptr.2d 117. In 1997, the Legislature amended section 21350(a) to include care custodians of dependent adults as presumptively disqualified donees. (See Stats.1997, ch. 724, § 33; Conservatorship of Davidson (2003) 113 Cal.App.4th 1035, 1051 [6 Cal.Rptr.3d 702] [1997 amendment to section 21350 “was intended to apply to gifts made ‘to practical nurses or other caregivers hired to provide in-home care. If an elderly patient intends to create a Will or a living trust naming a caregiver as one of the beneficiaries, it is important for the elderly donor to retain an attorney that can advise the elderly of the proper procedure for drafting the Will and the Trust and avoiding having the gift to the beneficiary caregiver held invalid by the court after the donor’s death. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 3881611 or e-mail kureyeslaw@gmail.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter 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)
“We’ve seen significant increase in terms of trade and investments and we are confident we will continue to see that,” outgoing Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia Jr. said. PH Embassy photo
More US investors drawn... PAGE B1 t
direct investment on the policy side should be strengthened to “try to help move along programs and policies that will help people here make the economic gains of the past few years even greater because it will be more sustainable and more inclusive.”
According to Cuisia, bilateral trade between the Philippines and the US has been on the uptrend in recent years. “When I arrived in Washington in 2011, our two way trade between the US and Philippines was close to about $13 billion. By 2015 it was up to about $18.2 billion,” he said. n
PH emerging as winner... PAGE B1 t
ing trend in Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. “The previous FDI favorites, including Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand, saw some weakening trends,” it said. FDI inflows in Thailand is now down to $3 billion as of end-April after peaking at $15 billion in 2014, while inflows to Indonesia reached $30 billion on a rolling basis. On the other hand, FDI inflows in Singapore reached $60 billion in the first quarter of the year from $68 billion in 2013. Many observers have projected a strong increase in FDI inflows
in ASeAN as China becomes a less attractive FDI destination due to political tensions with Japan, rising wages and moderating domestic demand. however, Credit Suisse said ASeAN saw a decline in FDI inflows, reflecting a broader macro trends including the still weak outlook for exports and investments globally. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas sees FDI inflows rising to $6.3 billion this year amid the country’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals and the implementation of much needed infrastructure projects under the public private partnership scheme. n
The investment bank said FDI inflow in the Philippines is now at a multi-decade high of $8 billion as of end-April, up from $6 billion in 2015 and $1 billion just five years ago.
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Debt Relief Atty. LAwrence yAng The first case involves clients who are still young. By young, I mean less than fifty, late forties. They have teenage children, one son, and two daughters. Their household income is about $75K a year. husband used to work two jobs as a technician, while wife used to own a retail business, now defunct. She still makes some money but hardly enough to pay for her $68K of credit card debt. She racked up this debt when she used these cards to support a failing business, just to keep the business afloat for two more years. husband owes only $20K of credit cards. Together, clients owe about $90K of credit cards. Minimum monthly payments are almost $3k a month. Needless to say, wife’s cards are now all past due, while husband’s cards are still current, as a last ditch effort to hold the fort, the same thing that Gen. Custer did. Thinking he could protect the fort, the Indians won and Custer died. Three Indian tribes, the Lakota, Cheyenne and Arapaho decimated the 7th cavalry of Gen. Custer, which had 700 men. Custer and his two brothers died in the battle of ‘Little Big horn” in 1876. So, I’m not so sure if it’s a good idea to take a last stand to try to pay $90K of credit card debt when clients’ household income, although decent at $75K a year, because there is no way mathematically for clients’ to pay $90K of credit card debt with minimum payments. These cards will never get paid in clients’ lifetime, unless they win the power ball lottery. Dream on. The chance of winning power ball is 1 in 292 million. You have a better chance of getting hit by lightning, twice, than winning power ball. After a little probing, I determine that clients want a Chapter 7 to wipe out all of the $90K credit cards. The problem is that their residence has about $130K of equity. It has a current fair market value of $450K and they owe about $320K on it. It this was four years ago, they could easily sail through a Chapter 7 without the risk of losing their house to an aggressive Chapter 7 trustee. Of course, their home-
Community Journal
LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • AUgUSt 3-5, 2016
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Clients choose Chapter 13 Calendar of Events across America to avoid risk of losing house Senior wants to wipe out $22k credit card debt
stead exemption is $100K plus about $25K for cost of sale of the house, so there is no viable equity for the trustee to take, so there is minimal risk to the house. But there is a five percent chance that the trustee that gets assigned to clients’ case is the most aggressive Chapter 7 trustee when it comes to non exempt assets, particularly houses. If this misfortune should befall clients, this is just the worst thing that can happen to a Chapter 7 debtor with “borderline” exempt equity in the house, having to deal with a Chapter 7 trustee on steroids who is hell bent on selling your house for $1 of non-exempt equity. And even though debtors have the right to convert to Chapter 13 anytime, to escape the clutches of a Chapter 7 trustee who wants to sell their house, the right to convert is not absolute. This trustee will certainly oppose the conversion to Chapter 13. his trustee and legal fees to fight the conversion to Chapter 13 can easily reach $25K, and all of that $25K must be paid in full the Chapter 13 as priority Chapter 7 administrative fees. So even the trustee loses on the opposition, he still wins, because he still gets paid $25K in the Chapter 13 case. It doesn’t pass the smell test for fairness, but in reality, that’s the way it works. I have one case now and we are fighting to keep debtor’s house in Chapter 7 (no conversion to Chapter 13) because debtor owes more than $1.0M of unsecured debt. We are fighting the trustee in an adversary case because this house doesn’t even have non-exempt equity but the trustee is making it appear that debtor lied under oath and now asks for denial of discharge to debtor. I just can’t believe what is going on in this case. But we are fighting it 100%, and in this case, we are the Indians. To avoid this kind of scenario altogether, it is safer for clients to choose Chapter 13. In Chapter 13, they can pay a small amount, maybe $300 a month for sixty months. After having
paid $18,000 in sixty months with no interest, the difference between $90K and $18K, $72K will be discharged with the last payment on the 60th payment. This means that clients will pay 20% of their $90K credit cards over 5 years with no interest, the court will discharge 80% of $72K on the 60th payment. In Chapter 13, there is no risk of clients’ losing their house to the trustee because Chapter 13 trustees do not have the power to sell houses. On the other hand, Chapter 7 trustees have the power to sell your house if there is viable non-exempt equity. To avoid the hassle of dealing with an over aggressive Chapter 7 trustee and risk losing their house, clients chose to file Chapter 13 and pay 20% of their credit card debt. And may I add, this is the right choice because there is no risk to the house which they want to keep, and $300 plan payment is certainly a lot less than $3K a month for minimum payments that never end, with a bright light at the end of the 60th payment when $72K is discharged by the court! In 5 years, clients will owe zero unsecured debt, and they will still have their house, which may then have $200K of equity if hillary Clinton becomes president. I’m with her. We are stronger together. Second client is a young senior. She is only 55. Divorced ten years ago. Now lives by herself. She used to be a happy camper with a $40K yearly salary. But she lost that job last year. She is stuck with $22K of credit card debt. She pays $900 a month for these cards to keep them current. But her savings are quickly diminishing. When it’s a choice between paying $900 of rent which lets her have a roof over her head for a month, or $900 to mastercard and visa, given the fact that she now has no income, it’s really a no brainer. The $22K of credit cards has to be discharged. She chooses Chapter 7 to achieve this goal. her credit score will go up pretty fast since she still pays for a car. In two years her
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ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS AU g U St 5
Vianney, renewing the heart of the church Leonardo De Filippis of St. Luke Productions will perform the role of Vianney. The message of Vianney is a vital one as it goes along with the charism of Holy Name of Mary Church. Please come and be present at this evangelization event sponsored by the Sacred Hearts Secular Branch, Inc. / Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary and Perpetual Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. The performance will be held on Aug. 5 at 7 p.m. at Holy Name of Mary Church at 724 E. Bonita Avenue, San Dimas, California. For more information, please call Stephany at (909) 260-2033 or Jacki at (760) 221-3255 or email scaredheartssb@ymail.com.
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Disco Manila at LA’s Grand Performances Put on your boogie shoes and embrace the resurgence of disco from the Manila Sound era, the next wave of global groove music. Manila Sound was a catch all moniker during the ‘70s describing Philippine popular music that embraced its American soul/folk/pop/jazz influences, combined it with Filipino modern aesthetics and polished it off with the musical proficiency of the vibrant Manila scene that somehow flourished during the Marcos-era Martial Law. Live Performances of classic Disco dance floor fillers by the original purveyors of the sound and those who lived it. The event will begin at 8 p.m. at Grand Performances, located at 350 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90071. For more information, please visit http://grandperformances.org/disco-manila.
Claro M. Recto High School’s International Grand Reunion Claro M. Recto High School will be holding its international grand reunion on Aug. 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Quiet Cannon. The address is 901 Via San Clemente, Montebello, CA. Event tickets are $50 and the attire is Filipiniana.
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St. Margaret Mary Parish Luau The St. Margaret Mary Parish will celebrate their Annual Luau on August 27 at the SMM Parish Hall on 12686 Central Ave., Chino, California. Music will be provided by The Midnight Motion Duo. For more information, please call SMM Filipino Ministry President - (909) 315-9812, Adel Rellora.
SEPtEMBER 1
Startup Business Expo Tour (with Tagalog translation)
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti’s Office in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration invites you to the 2016 Startup Business Expo Tour. Topics include: starting a business in LA, predicting your financial future, choosing a legal entity & access to capital. This event will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 6313 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Ste. 2140, Woodland Hills, CA 91367. The event is FREE & open to the public. There will also be free food & refreshments for participants. To RSVP, please visit www.startuptourla.com.
SEPtEMBER 3
Filipino Association of Leisure World Annual “Luau” The Filipino Association of Leisure World will hold its Annual Hawaiian Luau at the LW Hall (1232 Golden Rain Rd. Seal Beach, California) on Saturday, Sept. 3. Music will be provided by Willie Manacsa & The Midnight Motion Band. Please call the president of the association, Ren Villanueva at (323) 854-6209 for other related questions.
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42nd annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Peñafrancia United Bicolandia Los Angeles (UBLA) invites everyone, Bicolanos, devotees and friends to come and celebrate the 42nd annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, Patroness of the Bicol Region. The festivities will start on Sept. 9, with the translacion at 5pm at the Immaculate of Mary Church (4954 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90029. A nightly novena Mass follows from Sept. 9 to Sept. 16 at 6 PM except on Saturday, Sept. 10, at 3:30 PM and Sunday, Sept. 11, at 2;30 PM and culminates on Saturday, Sept. 17, with the ninth day novena at 8am, foot & fluvial procession at 9 AM, and a Concelebrated Mass at 10 am at Lincoln Park, 3501 Valley Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90031. Main celebrant will be HE Most Rev Arturo Bastes, Bishop of Sorsogon. For details, please call Lanie Berrei (818) 281-3169 or Gene Leano (818) 439-6896.
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AAPA’s leadership symposium Join the Asian American Professional Association (AAPA) for an all-day event from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. with exceptional and diverse keynote speakers and panelists, as well as multiple workshops on diversity and leadership topics. The symposium is open to everyone, and will be held at the Pacific Palms Hotel, 1 Industry Hills Parkway, City of Industry, CA 91744. For more information, please visit http://aapamentoring.com/.
S E P t E M B E R 24
8th Regional Celebration of the Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz The Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the San Fernando Region invites everyone to the 8th Regional Celebration of the feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz, the First Filipino Saint. Festivities will be on Saturday, September 24, 2016, at this year’s host parish, Holy Family Church - Glendale (209 East Lomita Avenue, Glendale CA 91205). Procession starts at 4:30 PM , then Mass at 5:30 PM with Most Reverend Oscar A. Solis DD, Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles, as Principal Celebrant. Reception , fellowship and program will immediately follow at the Holy Family Grade School Auditorium across the church. For more information, please contact Ping Bayani at(913) 558-4332 or bayani0950@yahoo.com.
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FAPCCA Media Awards The Filipino American Press Club of California invites you to The First FAPCCA Media Awards Gala Night 2016 at Glendale Hilton Hotel, 100 W. Glenoaks Blvd, Glendale CA 91202, Sept. 25, 2016 Sunday 5pm (www.facebook.com/fapccamediaawards/) Tickets: $65/person includes dinner and entertainment. Call: 626.475.3052; 310.600.9913;8 18.357.4566 or pay by Paypal at www.paypal.me/fapcca (please indicate the amount, number of tickets, name, mailing address and cell number on the Special Instruction field). FAPCCA Contact Persons: Chairperson Thelma Calabio - 301.600.9913; President Andy Z. Edralin - 626-475-3052; VP Isidric Panganiban - 818.357.4566; Treasurer Christie Rosacia -818.451.6606; Auditor Sonia Bermejo - 818.653.3177; Joe Cobilla - PRO 323.804.9959; Director Rose Sarreal 213.321.1119
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25th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) The Association for the Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) is proud to announce the date & venue for the anticipated Silver Anniversary edition of its annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture. FPAC 25, the 25th Annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC), will take place Saturday, October 8 at the beautiful Echo Park Lake. Admission is FREE. The popular festival, the City of Los Angeles’ Filipino American Event, is the longest-running Filipino cultural celebration in Southern California. Audiences can expect to enjoy traditional and contemporary Filipino food, music, dance, crafts and culture. This year’s theme, “Samu’t Sari: Showcasing the Diverse Creative Tapestry of the FilAm Community,” lends its meaning to the Tagalog phrase which loosely translates to “diversity.” While certainly a hot topic in today’s society, FilAm Arts focuses on the vast contributions of Filipino American artists to the creative tapestry of the City. For more information, please visit www.filamarts.org or call 2133803722. For sponsorship and vendor opportunities, please email info@filamarts.org.
If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com
Community Journal
B August 3-5, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK AsIAN JOuRNAL
Rewriting your own story
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond
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When an unpaid credit card debt turns into a lawsuit
Minding Your Finances
“A useless life is an early death.”
— Goethe
Monette AdevA MAglAyA got unhinged off its orbit in the asteroid belt, hit the earth with such impact, setting off a series of volcanic eruptions that covered the atmosphere with ash far above the stratosphere, so that sunlight could not penetrate through the haze for years, killing off the plant life, upsetting and destroying the food chain balance and effectively starving and wiping the dinosaurs off the face of the earth 65 million years ago. Here is earth’s tabula rasa story — starting on a clean slate, a new lease on life. When the reptiles died, mammals, of which we are classified under, began their ascent. Human beings with purpose came to be. Yet each man’s purpose is nebulous and not always obvious. Purpose does not come as clear as the light of day. We have to seek it out. Either by choice or circumstance, some exceptional ones find their purpose early enough and proceed to fulfill it. But the great majority of people on the bell curve don’t have the nose to sense their true north. Most of us of the garden variety meander about our lives trying different things until we finally stumble upon it by trial and error. The annals of history are rife with such stories. St. Paul, almost single handedly nourished the beginnings of the early Christian church through his numerous travels. But he didn’t start out that way. He was just as passionate about persecuting Christians before he was tapped from above to do a complete conversion. Edwin Hubble, the great astronomer who lived in the nineteen twenties and for whom the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) is named for his outstanding achievements in expanding our view of the universe, tried
If you’ve been given the chance to restart a new life after you’ve gone through some life-changing, miraculous experience, such as surviving a horrific accident when everyone else perished, or finding yourself inexplicably healed from a deadly disease, then you’ll know what it feels to be given a reprieve, a fresh slate, a clean paper, what the Greeks call a tabula rasa, on which you can begin writing your new story. Or if you use a computer, click on a new blank document and chase the cursor. How does one use this new lease on life? Most people lucky enough to be given a second chance, will quickly realize that this new lease can just be an extra few months or years, and in the most blessed scenarios, a decade or two. Each day beyond that critical turning point is a bonus, every single moment, a gift. Sometimes, God mercifully knocks some sense into us through drastic means by throwing us a curve ball to bring us down on our knees so that we have no choice but to look above and beyond our own petty, selfish concerns and total self-involvement in order to grasp the concept of our own mortality and to know that we are here for a purpose. We’re not here to merely consume resources or take up space. Consider the fearsome dinosaurs. Grazing the earth for millions of years, that is essentially what they did — consumed resources and took up space. Not by intelligence but by sheer size and numbers, they had dominion over all other species for millions of years, until one day, as scientists try to explain their extinction, a rogue asteroid about 7 miles long, possibly
different things before finding out what he was meant to do. In college, he played championship basketball and even tried boxing. After fighting in World War I, he studied law, tried lawyering for a year and obviously didn’t like it. Something must have happened because he went back to college to study astronomy and finally found his footing and his purpose in life. That’s what most of us do. We try different lives until we find the one that matches heaven’s purpose. Just don’t run out of time. No one wants to leave with unfinished business. If our stations in life allow us the luxury of choice, then more than likely, we will be meandering too and trying different things before coming on board to the ship that will likely bring us to the port of our purpose. We don’t really have to wait for something dramatic, traumatic or tragic to happen to get us on track to finding that purpose. But do go to the right source. Nix the harebrained ideas coming from most of the dishonest, agenda-driven media, both the entrenched tradional media and social media about what that purpose might be. When it comes to things that matter, most of media these days have proven themselves to be unworthy of trust. Tune out of the external world and go deep within. If you pray hard enough and long enough and live in the silence for a little while, chances are, you’ll find it. You can then begin rewriting your own story on a new document page. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com
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Atty. RAyMond BulAon HAVE your credit card debts become so large that you can’t even afford the minimum payments? Or perhaps you’re already behind and your accounts have been turned over to collections? What do you do to get out of this financial mess? If you are in this situation, maybe you’ve wondered about what the legal repercussions might be once you get to the point where you can no longer continue paying your creditors. Can credit card companies sue you for what you owe? And when they do, what happens when they get a judgment against you? These are the questions I’m often asked by people who seek legal advice regarding their debts. Of course, credit card companies don’t make it easy for you to catch up once you fall behind. They are quick to add on additional fees and demand that you bring your account up to date immediately by paying the current amount due, all past due payments as well as late fees. And if allowed by the agreement that you signed when you first applied for the credit card, your interest rate can also go sky-high upon default. Before you know it, your debt problems have become a financial nightmare and your phone starts ringing off the hook with bill collectors harass-
ing you at home and at work. What do you do at this point? If your credit card debts have escalated beyond your control, perhaps you are getting nervous about what your creditors will do next. Can you be sued? Yes, you can be sued once your creditors are convinced that they have exhausted all other options to force you to pay. Of course, the benefit to be gained by suing you must outweigh the costs so the creditor will take that into consideration as well. But most delinquent accounts are turned over to collection agencies in high volumes which significantly reduce the creditors’ litigation costs. Smaller companies like credit unions will also sometimes sue you in small claims court and they don’t even need an attorney to file the lawsuit. I often see people who ignore their debts for a long time until one day they receive a summons at home or at work and only then do they realize the seriousness and urgency of their situation. If you are sued by a creditor, it is very important that you do not ignore the lawsuit or you will definitely regret the consequences once the creditor takes the next step of garnishing your wages, seizing funds out of your bank account, filing a lien against your real property or a combination of the above. If filing bankruptcy is your best and only option, it is best
to seek legal help right away before your debt problems get worse. Spare yourself the suffering and the agony caused by debt if at all possible. In choosing a bankruptcy lawyer, remember that not all bankruptcy lawyers are created equal and may have different ideas on how to help you. It is important to choose a knowledgeable and experienced attorney who has your best interests at heart. Most debt problems are solvable but often they get worse if ignored. Don’t make this fatal mistake. If bankruptcy is not your best option, sometimes debt settlement can also be a way to avoid bankruptcy as long as you can come up with a realistic payment plan that your creditors will accept. If you are in debt and have not figured out a way to get out, constant worrying will not get you anywhere unless you act to change your situation for the better. For a free consultation, call my office at Toll-Free 1866-477-7772 and we will help you step by step in finding a solution that’s right for you. *** None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully helped thousands of clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call Ray Bulaon Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1 (866) 4777772. (Advertising Supplement)
People and Events
Fil-Am wins at International History Olympiad FOurTEEN-year old Alejandro Lim of Johns Creek, Georgia represented the Philippines in the recently concluded International History Olympiad (IHO). The IHO was held at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia from July 9th to the 16th. As lone representative for the Middle School Division, Alejandro received 2 golds, 2 silvers, and 5 bronzes for the Philippines. The Philippines ranked 13th in medal count among the participating nations and states and was the highest-ranked among participants that have a single representative. Alejandro received the Philippines’ first gold for Historical Linguistics, a 100 question multiple choice exam testing both basic knowledge of concepts from the discipline of historical linguistics, as well as specific topics within a historical context. It is a test of students’ knowledge of basic historical linguistics, including the development of syntax, language families, phonetics, and sound change. The Philippines’ second gold was in the Table Combined Event – combination of table tennis and history quiz questions (played on a separate table, using a buzzer system and a written sheet). Alejandro received his first silver medal in Battery – a required individual event at the Olympiad that counts towards the Olympiad Championships. It is a 400 multiple choice questions on all aspects, eras, and places in history. roughly half of the questions was primarily factual in nature, while the other half was analytical (though still requiring a sound factual knowledge of history). The second silver was for the quiz bowl team event where Alejandro was paired with Dennis
Yang of Taiwan. Team Philiwan sailed through the preliminaries and semi-finals before bowing to the three-kid team of Singapore at the finals. At the Olympiad Championships, Alejandro got the bronze medal after finishing second in Battery, 6th in the Written Test, and tied for 4th place in the buzzer system History Bee. He likewise received bronze medals for each of the following events: Ancient History, Historical Geography, History of Science, and The Great Trading Game, a simulation event which transports the individual players back to 17th century. Asked about the highlight of the IHO, Alejandro says for him “it was the playing of the Philippine National Anthem twice”. He looks forward to the IHO’s launching of the International History Bee and Bowl in the Phil-
ippines in 2015-2016 academic year where he is confident Filipino students will shine. Alejandro graduated from river Trail Middle School (rTMS) in Johns Creek, Georgia, where he was coached by Mr. Scott Fowler, Mr. Cliff roberts, and Ms. Sarah roberson. He graduated as the Atlanta regional History Bee Champion and National Geographic Bee school champion as well as co-captain of the rTMS Academic Bowl Team which placed 3rd in the whole of the uS at the National Academic Quiz Tournament (NAQT). He will be a 9th grader at Northview High School, also in Johns Creek, where he hopes to contribute to the Academic Bowl Team there. Alejandro is the son of Alvin Lim and Florence de los reyes, both graduates of the university of the Philippines in Diliman. n
Paint along artwalk on Wilshire Blvd. in LA 2-6pm on Sunday, August 21
JOIN Dysonna City Art Gallery for a weekend of FuN and ArT with our 5th Annual Paint Along on Wilshire Blvd. in Los Angeles. This year, the neighbors and artists will have a chance to paint along on giant canvases and show their creativity! On Sunday, August 21st, 2016 from 2-6pm our artists will paint beautiful paintings on their canvases all over the BOuLEVArD! The gallery will be full of beautiful art to buy and see, as well as art related retail for every occasion. We will also feature music with fun drum-
ming classes so don’t miss out! Our theme for the art this year is “COLOr”, and with a variety of artists, this can be interpreted into many different styles. Anything from abstract, to figurative, to photography and more! We are also still accepting artists for those that are interested. Come out and support our local artists and enjoy great art from the community. Dysonna City Art Gallery is owned by Donna Dyson, and located in the Miracle Mile District of Los Angeles. The gal-
lery features new artists every month with an opening reception every first Saturday, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Depending on the month and the artists, Dysonna will feature a wide variety of events from poetry readings, concerts, and even hosting a yearly Jazz Festival for the last 4 years. Website: wwwdysonnacityartgallery.com FB: Dysonna City Art Gallery Twitter: @dysonnagallery Instagram: @dysonnacityartgallery n
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cover story The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 3, 2016
Diversity matters: Filipino-Americans in the Obama Administration Jian Zapata Kim
By AJPress
I
(Part 2 of 2)
Associate Director ofLegislative Affairs Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs U.S. Departmentof Commerce Hometown: Virginia Beach, VA
N the July 27 issue, the Asian Journal featured part one of Filipino-Americans who are part of the current administration. We are now publishing the second half of this two-part series. The Obama administration has been touted as the most diverse in American history, according to a study made by UC Berkeley. Of the many Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in President Barack Obama’s administration, there are fifteen (15) Filipino-Americans who serve in different capacities. These Fil-Am appointees have brought not only their skills and expertise to serve the public, but their Filipino heritage as well.
Eddie Angeles Associate Administrator for Airports DOT/FAA Headquarters U.S. Department of Transportation – Federal Aviation Administration Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
What influenced you to pursue a career in government? As an immigrant from the Philippines, I have always wanted to give back to what this great country has given to me. Therefore, I wanted to dedicate my professional career to public service. I had the great honor to work in the airport industry in Los Angeles and San Francisco. The Obama Administration gave me the unique opportunity and honor to serve the American people as the FAA’s Associate Administrator for Airports. What challenges have you faced as a Filipino American working in government? I believe combating the preconceived prejudices that people have about immigrant Filipinos is always challenging. We are traditionally not perceived as leaders but workers in health care, domestic helpers, and other non-leadership role jobs. Therefore, we lack representation in top management positions and lack representation in the elected
ranks of government. We lack the kind of “political clout” that many other minority communities possess in government. What do you see as a large issue facing the FilipinoAmerican community? How is your department working to address it? It is vital to increase the numbers of Filipino-Americans in top management jobs in government and corporate America. We must strive to advocate for greater representation and elect more FilipinoAmericans into key government elected offices around the country. As a department Senior Executive Service professional, I personally try to provide mentorship to others to seek top management positions not only in the federal government but also aviation industry wide. What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of while working in the Obama administration? It is impossible to point to a single matter I am most proud of accomplishing while working for the Obama Administration. But, every time a plane takes off and lands safely at an airport in our country it is the result of the great work of the men and women at the FAA. I am
deeply proud and honored to have contributed to that great record of aviation safety during my tenure. However, I want to highlight that it was during the Obama Administration that we invested nearly $3 billion in the infrastructure improvements of runway safety areas, and now we have embarked upon a new Runway Incursion Mitigation program to further improve the safety of our nation’s airports. What is your biggest takeaway from working in this administration? You should dream big because in this great country of the United States of America anything is possible. How can more Filipinos and minorities become involved in government (on all levels) and be more civically engaged? Start getting involved at the local level in terms of advocacy in schools, city, and state government. Then, begin to serve in government with commission appointments, school board elections, and progressively move into higher profile elected offices. It does not take much effort to be civilly engaged. The first step is to make sure to vote in the upcoming November election.
What influenced you to pursue a career in government? I grew up in Virginia Beach, VA, one of the largest military communities in the country and subsequently home to a large and vibrant Filipino American community. Though I went on to college right outside of DC, I had never really considered a career in government and was initially more interested in the nonprofit sector. However, my first job out of undergrad was working on a political campaign. Afterwards I had a wonderful opportunity to work on Capitol Hill and to work on a policy portfolio near and dear to me, veterans issues. Of most significance, I had the chance to work on and help pass legislation to honor our Filipino World War II veterans, a bill that I had organized around years before as a college student. I served on the Hill for nearly seven years and then moved into a political appointment at the
U.S. Department of Commerce, where I have been for almost three years now. Having worked in politics, policy, and public service for nearly a decade, I’ve come to learn how each of these areas interconnect and affect us all. I’ve also come to see how underrepresented Filipino Americans, and Asian Americans overall, are in these policy-shaping and decision-making spaces-- not only in sheer staff numbers but more importantly in viewpoints and voices. Because of this, I pursued opportunities in the Administration knowing that government has the ability to vastly impact the lives of so many, and I remain committed to continuing a career in public service. What do you see as a large issue facing the FilipinoAmerican community? How is your department working to address it? Each and every one of our families left the Philippines for a chance at better opportunities. The largest issue facing Filipino Americans (and our country in general) continues to be reaching for The American Dream: from being able to live in safe communities, to affording our
children with the best education and care, to making an honest living in order to provide for our families. The U.S. Department of Commerce’s focus is strengthening the economy by supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, and trade. When the economy is growing, businesses are thriving, and workers are treated with dignity and respect, our communities can prosper. How can more Filipinos and minorities become involved in government (on all levels) and be more civically engaged? Civic engagement is more than just running for office, voting, or working in government, though these things are also incredibly important. It includes lending your energy to causes that speak to you, dialoguing with and educating others about pressing issues, organizing yourselves at the grassroots as well as at the grass tops, holding elected officials accountable, creating space for and supporting new leadership, reaching back and guiding those who need help navigating the bureaucracy, and building capacity at all these levels to increase political power.
Paulo Palugod Senior Sustainability Officer for Resilience White House Council on Environmental Quality Hometown: Galloway, NJ (born in Quezon City, Philippines)
What influenced you to pursue a career in government? My parents worked for the National Economic Develop-
ment Authority in the Philippines and have always encouraged public service and giving to others. In high school, my mom brought me to the Philippines to sell our house finally. It was my first experience with real poverty and the impacts of industry on third world developing countries. Because of that experience, I dedicated my college years
and law school electives to international development and environmental issues. I went to work for the U.S. Department of Justice’s Environment and Natural Resources Division, where I worked in environmental and natural resources law, and then came to CEQ to work on climate change adaptation issues. Continued on Page 3
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The Asian Journal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 3, 2016
Diversity matters: Filipino-Americans in the... From Page 2
Paulo Palugod What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of while working in the Obama administration? Working on the Deepwater Horizon Gulf Oil Spill litigation and moving forward Administration initiatives for Tribes and environmental justice communities. What is your biggest takeaway from working in this administration?
It’s important to show leadership even when people say no. You shouldn’t be afraid to push priorities or ideas that you believe in and you should be persistent in making them happen. How can more Filipinos and minorities become involved in government (on all levels) and be more civically engaged? Working in government is not the end result, but an opportunity to drive social change. Always be on the
lookout for how you can make something better and contribute in your communities. It can help you support initiatives, policy, or legislation that you believe in, or meet people that are doing the very work that you would want to do in the government. You can work on campaigns at the local, state, or Federal level, or participate in civic organizations that support causes about which you feel passionate that represent communities to the government.
Cezar A. B. Lopez Senior Advisor Office for Civil Rights U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Hometown: Silver Spring, MD thing in common with other people, and an opportunity to surprise people, hopefully in a good way, by being a better version of myself each day. What do you see as a large issue facing the FilipinoAmerican community? How is your department working to What influenced you to address it? pursue a career in governOne issue is how to better ment? integrate into and navigate My parents. My mom was American communities and a social worker and my dad is services such as healthcare a retired physician. Despite and health insurance. I’ve facing cultural barriers as new always felt comfortable talking immigrants in the 1960s, they about my health because I’ve emphasized the importance of been lucky to have a personal helping people. When I was physician (my dad) all my life. growing up, my parents talked I’ve come to believe that you a lot about perseverance, faith, shouldn’t have to get lucky to history, and current events. I get good healthcare, so it has remember my parents readbeen a privilege to serve at ing social justice books to me the U.S. Department of Health when I was a kid. I saw by their and Human Services (HHS), examples that principled acwhich protects the health and tions and leadership were ways well-being of all Americans. I could help people, particularly My agency, the HHS Office someone starting over or in for Civil Rights, promulgates need of a hand or a voice. regulations, develops policy, What challenges have you provides technical assistance faced as a Filipino American and education, and works with working in government? healthcare providers to ensure It can be intimidating when they understand and comply government doesn’t look like with civil rights and health America and sometimes it’s information privacy laws. scary to speak out against What accomplishment(s) wrongs. Luckily, when I was in are you most proud of while school and when I started work- working in the Obama admining, I was mentored by visionistration? ary people who nurtured and On a personal level, since emboldened me. And I’ve seen joining the Obama adminisit as a motivation to find some- tration in 2012, I became a
husband, a father, a first-time homeowner, and my band has recorded and performed our music. Professionally, I am proud to have made contributions to the Affordable Care Act, which put in place comprehensive health insurance reforms that have improved access, affordability, and quality in health care for Americans. And I am proud to have been part of the team at the HHS Office for Civil Rights that issued the Nondiscrimination in Health Programs and Activities final rule implementing Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. I am very blessed, and I have so much to feel proud about personally and professionally! What is your biggest takeaway from working in this administration? Transformational change has been possible with preparedness, dedication, and team work. How can more Filipinos and minorities become involved in government (on all levels) and be more civically engaged? Register and vote in every election. I’d also say, be wellinformed about your community and take on leadership and organizing opportunities in your neighborhood.
Lelaine Bigelow Deputy Assistant Secretary for Legislative Relations Federal Housing Administration U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Hometown: Pensacola, FL
What influenced you to pursue a career in government? My family taught me how government and the political process can influence our everyday lives. From an early age I remember volunteering on campaigns with my family and discussing with family members how to make things better at schools and around our city. These may not have been sophisticated debates, but I can see now how important it was in showing me that government matters and it is our responsibility to speak up. When it came down to choosing a career, I looked around at government and political leaders and I didn’t see many Filipinos. I wasn’t sure if that meant my voice and my concerns were being represented. I felt a responsibility to contribute to the dialogue for people like me who might not have a voice. I didn’t have a concrete plan, but I knew that understanding government and how it works was critical to making an impact. If you don’t understand the process you can’t influence it. What challenges have you faced as a Filipino American working in government? I’m grateful that I have not faced many challenges as a Filipino-American and I am stand-
ing on the shoulders of those that have paved the way for me. My one challenge to name would be my maiden Spanish surname of Valdez. More than once, I was picked to be interviewed because organizations thought I was Hispanic and then I was summarily dismissed after the in-person interview once I was not the “right minority.” It is a shame that some organizations would support tokenism over implementing true diversity in their hiring practices. When you are starting out and trying to get your foot in the door this practice it can seem hurtful, but now I see this as true test of whether or not this organization is a place that is a good to place to work. What do you see as a large issue facing the FilipinoAmerican community? How is your department working to address it? I would like to see more Filipino-Americans engaged, educated and active on civic issues because that translates into power for our communities. I know it is hard work among a number of other family, work and other life commitments. That is why at HUD, we are trying to do our part to simplify access to information. We’ve translated over a hundred documents; we meet with community leaders and groups to let them know how HUD can be helpful to their constituencies and we practice diversity in hiring, so that our voice is at the table. What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of while working in the Obama administration? I am most proud of the
work I have done to disaggregate HUD data for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs). Sometimes the work you do is very short-term— working on events or rollouts. Data collection is a long-term and lasting impact that will serve our community beyond the Obama Administration. It is a necessary and hard firststep to moving our community forward. What is your biggest takeaway from working in this administration? My biggest takeaway is how powerful individuals can be, even in a large organization. Most people feel like cogs in a wheel, but that is not true in the Obama Administration. Every person can have an impact and it reverberates through meetings, policy and impactful decisions. It cuts both ways—positive and negative—but that underscores to me the importance of hiring the right people with diverse backgrounds that share the same vision. That doesn’t mean everyone needs to agree all the time, but that does mean we should share the same values. How can more Filipinos and minorities become involved in government (on all levels) and be more civically engaged? Read a good paper or news site. Listen to reliable news radio. Follow a respected journalist on twitter. We have the responsibility to be informed. We don’t need to be experts, but we should know what is going on in our world and how it affects us. That knowledge will drive the desire to be involved and be a more powerful engagement. Continued on Page 5
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features
The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 3, 2016
Billy Crawford ready to marry Coleen Garcia by iza iglesias ManilaTimes.net
TogEThEr for two years now, Billy Crawford and girlfriend Coleen garcia have been very open about their relationship, and have talked publicly about plans to tie the knot. According to Crawford, however, in a small roundtable interview, which included The Manila Times, he and garcia are simply finding the right timing. “We both talk about our future. of course that’s inevitable because we’ve been together for two years and i’m very close to her family, and she’s close to mine. So it will all lead there [to marriage]. “[But for now] i just want her to continue to grow as an actress. i want her to fulfill her dreams first,” Crawford, who is promoting his upcoming film with regal Entertainment “That Thing Called Tanga na,” added. “if ever i get married, i want to give everything i have when it comes to being a husband. i would ra-ther stop [everything i’m doing],, and just focus on that. But of course Coleen wants to do the same, which is why we have to be sure when we should go for it.” Crawford clarified all the same that he will not demand his future wife to stop acting, especially since he is aware that garcia has just started her climb to fame. “it’s all up to her if she wants to stop showbiz or not. Those are her opportunities, so we shouldn’t close any doors if they open for her.” Both practically and realistically, Crawford related,” i have been in this industry for 30 years now so i’ve had my time. Coleen’s just starting. But at least for me, when i get married, i want to focus on family.” Despite a controversial start to his relationship with garcia–Crawford had just broken up with longtime girlfriend nikki gil back then–he is happy to share that all is well in his personal life. “What we have now, i’m
Despite their 10-year age gap, these love birds are doing just fine.
cherishing. Everyday i have new things to learn about Coleen, and vice versa. So we want to take it slow; we’re take our time because she’s still young. i’m 10 years older than Coleen—i’m 34 years old, and she’s turning 24. So there’s a big age gap, so i’m still making sure she’s comfortable with what we have.” The “BiCol” couple spent their second year anniversary with a very simple celebration. According to the half-American celebrity who began in the industry as a little boy, there was no expensive gift from garcia but she gave her the most precious thing he could ask for: An entire day with him, which is a rarity given her very hectic schedule. “our anniversary was July 23… Well it is very hard to surprise Coleen. She wants to know everything about anything first so i fail every year in surprising her,” he laughed. “i got sick so i didn’t have any idea about her schedule. i just told her ‘Love, if you can, if your don’t have work on the 23rd give spend it with me’,” he shared. “So what i did, i borrowed my friend’s chopper, and we went to tagaytay to eat, and after that we went to the spa so she can relax. That was my gift, pampering,” Crawford smiled.
“Then we went back again here to Manila so we could watch together her first major acting debut in ‘MMK (Maalaala Mo Kaya).’ So yes, she gave me time–that’s what i hoped for and she gave it to me.” Asked if he gets jealous over garcia’s sexy and intimate scenes in movies, Crawford replied, “They’re part of her work, so i understand. it’s part of the movie so it’s her job. i watch all her love scenes and i still trust her. if ever there will be a time her co-actor acts maliciously, she will tell me about it, so they better be careful,” he warned. Meanwhile, Crawford expressed his gratitude to regal Entertainment for casting him in a movie after what he says has been decades his last with them. “The first regal Film i made was “Pahiram ng isang Umaga” back when i think i was seven years old. it’s an honor to come back here especially since [his mentor, the late] Kuya germs [Moreno] and i used to come here often,” he recalled. in the comedy film “That Thing Called Tanga na,” Crawford will play a closeted gay security guard who dreams of falling in love. Sharing top billing with him are Angeline Quinto, Eric Quizon, and Kean Cipriano.
More travel options with China Southern Airlines
ChinA Southern Airlines hopes to maintain is its position in 2016 as a leader in commercial aviation by providing unparalleled access to Asia and the rest of the world, and better options for passengers while retaining competitive fares. China Southern’s new Premium Economy class fares offer travelers more value compared to other airlines, according to Earl Francisco, general manager of Mango Tours for Southern California. “Compared to other Asian carriers who are already doing Premium Economy Service, theirs is better because in other airlines the difference between a regular and a premium economy seat is just the seat itself,” said Francisco. Unlike other airlines, China Southern adds business class meals and service, complimentary headphones for in flight entertainment and a host of additional bonuses to the list of amenities included in a Premium Economy ticket. The airline flies to the most extensive network in Asia, listing over 1,000 destinations in 177 countries and regions including the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and indonesia, according to Flora Wang, China Southern’s director of sales development for the southwestern region. By December of 2016, 39 flights will depart from five north American cities including a new route out of Toronto, an additional departure from Los Angeles, and 10 new flights originating from new York. “Southeast Asia is China’s main market for overseas
China Southern’s Senior Vice President Henry He
AJPress photos by Eric Anthony Licas
flights,” according to China Southern’s Senior Vice President henry he, who said the airline plans to increase flights in the region and the rest of the world. To accommodate the 110 million passengers the airline hosts each year, China Southern operates the largest fleet in Asia featuring over 670 aircraft and some of the most advanced examples of aeronautical engineering. it is the first Chinese airline to operate both the Airbus A380, currently the largest plane in operation, and the ultra-efficient Boeing 787. The airline employs the Boeing 777-300Er (extended range) exclusively on its direct route from new York to guanzhou so travelers on the East Coast can travel to China with a single boarding. China Southern is the only airline to offer direct flights
from north America to guangzhou, a city which Forbes listed as the best business hub of 2015. People with a layover in guangzhou are entitled to 72 hours of visa-free travel to explore the city (soon to be 144 hours in november), and all airline passengers staying longer than four hours will have access to a sleeping area, snack bar and other amenities at their travel lounge. in addition, business and first-class travelers can take advantage of a massage parlor and gourmet buffet. no matter what a person’s budget, departure point, or destination might be, China Southern intends to stand out as the best option for international travelers. (AJPress) For more information, please visit http://global.csair. com.
(Advertising Supplement)
Photo courtesy of China Southern Airlines
Jay-R Siaboc begins recovery from drug abuse by Ronnie
CaRRasCo ManilaTimes.net
iii
career-related depression. noT only did his voluntary it wasn’t long surrender make him come out af-ter he won with clean, guiltless hands, but albeit second Cebuano singer Jay-r Siaboc’s place in “PDA” act of turning himself in at the that he got a Toledo City police station in the deluge of offers western part of the island prov- to do regular ince on July 12 also spawned a TV series, his good number of TV guestings last biggest for him thereafter. break being The 29-year-old singer“Palos,” which turned-actor—who arrived in was his solo Manila a week later, and went starrer. live on radyo Singko’s Cristy “But after FerMinute (CFM)—was among ‘Palos,’ that more than 520 drug suspects was it. i had no who confessed to drug use. more offers. i “i surrendered to clarify gradually fell that i was a drug user before into depression but i was never a pusher,” he and eventudeclared in Filipi-no. ally decided Jay-r, who placed second to to go home to Yeng Constantino in ABS-CBn’s Toledo City,” “Pinoy Dream Academy Season Jay-r related 1” in 2006 was accompanied by without putting Jay-R Siaboc is a graduate of ABS-CBN’s ‘Pinoy Dream Academy’ Season 1 his wife Tricia and their threethe blame on year-old daughter hailey during whoever was supposed to take baby—and i asked myself what this radio inte-riview. responsibility for his derailed kind of a future i’d be giving her “After i surrendered, gMA’s career path. if i was an addict. i also didn’t morning news program Unang But what he hoped to be a want her to be embarrassed hirit asked me for an interview, better life ahead of him back that her father is a drug user and i also granted one to Ted in Cebu was one of near-menwhen she grows up. From then Failon of ABS-CBn. Just now, i dicancy. Almost in tears, Jay-r on, i cleaned up my act.” finished an interview with Luchi recounted, “Just so my family Before Fermin’s radio Cruz-Valdez of TV5.” would have food to eat, i would program that day drew to its Supposedly, Jay-r was beg with bar owners to give me close, Jay-r’s current business scheduled to fly back to Cebu a set to sing and earn money. manager who was also in tow after his three straight guestings i didn’t care how much they’d received a text message saying but Fermin—who brokered his give me. that ABS-CBn’s big cheeses interview with Valdes—insisted “We also opened up a sariJohnny Manahan and Mariole that he rebook his departure sari store but we had to close Alberto eagerly wanted to set the next day. Fermin had Jayit down because we needed an appointment with the Cer’s family billeted overnight at money to take care of my buano singer. hotel rembrandt. sick parents. i fell deeper into As her gesture of support, So, what prompted him to depression, and that was when i Fermin immediately contacted surrender? “Actually, i don’t started doing drugs.” a close friend and budding film think you can technically call Soon after, Jay-r met Tricia producer former Pandi Mayor what i did as a surrender. i just by chance. “She was a friend Enrico roque of Bulacan to heeded the advice of some of a friend of mine. She walked consider Jay-r to be part of town mates to go to the police right past me and i said, ‘Wow, the cast of the latter’s ini-tial since i was apparently on a she’s a beauty!’ i courted her, venture—a remake of a classic watch list. i asked them how and eventually we got together, Chiquito movie to star Vhong was that possible when i had and she got pregnant.” navarro. stopped using drugs for three it was after Tricia gave birth in agreement, we all years already, and like i said, i in 2013 that Jay-r had comhonestly believed that Jay-r’s was never a pusher.” pletely shunned from drugs. once-drugged life and eventual he attributed his drug de“i was looking at my wife surrender proved to be, in fact, pendence in the past to severe and our baby—especially our a blessing in disguise.
features 5
Diversity matters: Filipino-Americans in the... From Page 3
Francey Lim Youngberg Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Engagement U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Hometown: King of Prussia, PA
What influenced you to pursue a career in government? I had worked at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission as a young attorney and I saw the impact that government can have on public policy that affects the larger society in ways that the private sector seldom can. I also worked as a consultant to federal and city agencies for 10 years prior to joining HUD. Fortunately, I was recruited to join the Obama Administration in 2010 as a political appointee. I saw it as an opportunity to represent constituencies that are often overlooked and to apply what I learned being an advocate to the work of being on the other side of the table—responding to the needs of a diverse group of stakeholders. It was also an opportunity to make government more accessible—opening doors to external stakeholders so they can have a dialogue with policymakers. What challenges have you faced as a Filipino American working in government?
From my personal experience, government is one of the better working environments for minorities and women. When I graduated from Harvard Law School in 1988, women were only 40% of the class and AAPIs were less than 3%. When I started working for the largest law firm in PA, I was the only AAPI attorney in a firm with over 300 lawyers and the only woman tax attorney. When I came to DC in 1990 to work for one of the largest firms in DC, I was still the only AAPI working in the firm. So, those environments posed a far greater challenge in terms of inclusion and advancement. What do you see as a large issue facing the FilipinoAmerican community? How is your department working to address it? The Filipino American community is one of the largest among the AAPI communities but they don’t come together as a cohesive voice. They can be a much stronger voice if they focus on common ground and building a sustainable and strong presence in public policy making and politics. I was born in Sara, Iloilo and speak Visayan which is a dialect and later I learned Tagalog when I entered school but because my grandfather(my grandmother is Filipina/Spanish) was Chinese, I also went to Chinese school. Divisions continue to exist among
Americans of Filipino descent based on immigration pattern, original home province, dialect spoken and socio- economic status. I represent HUD at the AAPI White House Initiative (WHIAAPI) interagency group and this is a good working model of holding agencies accountable to be responsive to the AAPI community in terms of language access, data disaggregation, workforce diversity and capacity building. What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of while working in the Obama administration? Through the work of HUD in the WHIAAPI working group, we have been able to translate essential HUD documents into the major Asian languages including Tagalog, the national language of the Philippines. We have been able to change the American Housing Survey which is an important data collection point used for policy making so that now it will include subgroups of AAPIs including Filipinos. What is your biggest takeaway from working in this administration? Representation matters, holding agencies accountable is critical and making the needs of the community known to decision makers is essential. More AAPIs should enter the Administration either as career staff or political appointees to make a difference.
Katarina Mayers Deputy Press Secretary Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Commerce (through June 2016) Hometown: San Marino, CA What influenced you to pursue a career in government? My mother grew up in Ilocus Sur in the Philippines with not much. She overcame many challenges and made her way to the United States after getting herself through college and graduating at the top of her class. My parents did everything to give me every opportunity they didn’t have. They also instilled in me the value of service above self. I am blessed to have been born in the United States and feel it is my duty to make the world a better place. What challenges have you faced as a Filipino American working in government? There are very few Filipinos in government, let alone Asian Americans. When we are a tiny portion of the political community, it is difficult to make sure our people are equally represented.
What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of while working in the Obama administration? Working with Secretary Pritzker and the Commerce Department to get the American economy back on track has truly been a privilege. Our issues vary widely including everything from helping implement economic development initiatives in communities across the country to running the Census. Specifically, I loved working with our entrepreneurs to promote more innovation including the establishment of the Presidential Ambassadors
for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE) initiative. What is your biggest takeaway from working in this administration? I’ve been surrounded by so many who are working hard to ensure all Americans receive equal opportunities. I also leave with a humble reminder that the hard work never ends. How can more Filipinos and minorities become involved in government (on all levels) and be more civically engaged? Your voice matters, and you have a responsibility to make your voice heard. Participate and vote!
Melanie Garunay Associate Director of Digital Outbound Office of Digital Strategy, The White House Hometown: Janesville, WI
been the underlying thread in my work ever since. What challenges have you faced as a Filipino American working in government? The biggest challenge about working as a Filipino American in government is that there are not that many of us. It can be hard to navigate your career path without seeing people who share your background in your field. There just aren’t enough minority women in leadership positions in government in any sector, let alone in government. What do you see as a What influenced you to large issue facing the Filipinopursue a career in governAmerican community? How is ment? your department working to After graduating college, address it? I joined the 2012 Obama for Filipino Americans make America digital team in Chicago, Illinois. By that time, most people up the second largest group of Asian Americans in the United I knew had begun to use social States -- but you wouldn’t know media as a way to show their that from the way we’re undersupport for a cause or debate represented in politics. If more political issues with their friends Filipino Americans felt invested and families. It had become a in the outcome of our elections way for people who might have and thought of the political never attended a protest or a realm as a place where they rally or a town hall discussion to could make their voice heard, develop a political identity and we could have an incredible inbuild relationships with others fluence in the issues that matter who shared their views. I was to us, whether it’s immigration really inspired by the idea of social media as a tool for political reform or worker’s rights or colempowerment. So it was through lege affordability. The work we do in the my work on that campaign that I became interested in how digital Office of Digital Strategy is communications can help broad- about creating opportunities for people to engage with their en civic participation in politics government, especially young and government -- and that’s
people. Getting someone to share a Facebook post or sign a petition on WhiteHouse.gov is an important first step when it comes to participating in the process. What is your biggest takeaway from working in this administration? I think anyone who works in this administration is driven by a sense of optimism -- and that comes from the President himself. It’s easy for people, especially in my generation, to get turned off by the divisiveness in American politics and not participate at all. But in working for this President, both on his re-election campaign and in his administration, I’ve always been surrounded by people who believe that anyone, not just the wealthy or the powerful, can be an agent for change. That’s something I hope to take with me through the rest of my career. How can more Filipinos and minorities become involved in government (on all levels) and be more civically engaged? I would encourage Filipino Americans to volunteer for local political campaigns. It’s a good way to understand and advocate for the issues facing your community. And if other Filipino Americans or people of color see you volunteering, it might inspire them to get involved as well.
The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 3, 2016
Juday and Piolo open to working together again by Iza IglesIas ManilaTimes.net
IT’S been a while since the public last saw former onscreen partners Judy Ann Santos and Piolo Pascual together in one event. When they finally did for a joint endorsement, you can imagine the excitement that filled the air. The stars of the 2006 blockbuster film “Don’t Give Up On Us” were reunited at the launch of insurance company Sun Life Financial’s “Money for Life” campaign, which was held on neutral ground at the two artists’ home network in ABS-CBN. In separate interviews, Santos and Pascual likewise expressed their excitement on seeing each other again. “It’s great. Both of us were laughing just like the old times. Nothing has changed. Juday and I have been friends more
than half our lives so whenever we see each other it’s just like before,” Piolo related. “We’re OK…She’s been busy with family but I’m excited Sunlife got her to be part of the team so at least we get to work together again. Maybe the next time, we’ll get to do a movie as well,” the 39-year-old actor added. Pascual also patiently addressed a persistent issue that he and Santos have had an ongoing rift. He clarified that there was no bad blood between them. “We’ve always been ok. If ever there was a problem before, we were able to address and talk about it because of course, it’s not good to just forget all of the things you’ve done together. But Juday and I have always been OK,” he insisted.
Judy Ann Santos and Piolo Pascual
Giving her side of the story, Santos said in a separate interview that her relationship with Pascual is fine. Continued on Page 6
Selena Gomez ‘revives’ crowd with bold, unrestricted performance by alIxandra
Caole Philstar.com
VIla
AMERICAN Pop Singer Selena Gomez might have been miles away from her home last night, but the crowd at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena made her feel as if she has not left home at all. “I am far away from home, but I feel like I am home with you,” Selena told the Filipino fans during her “Revival Tour” in Manila on Sunday, July 31. Thousands of fans flocked to MOA Arena as early as 4 p.m. to catch the first-ever concert of the American singer in the Philippines. The stadium was filled to the rafters, with fans wearing Selena merchandise and waving glowing sticks. Selena opened the show with “Revival” and “Same Old Love,” the second single from the album released in 2015. The crowd screamed with excitement as Selena sang their all-time favorite
Selena Gomez waves at Filipino fans during her “Revival Tour” concert at Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay City, Philippines on July 31, 2016. Philstar.com photos by AJ Bolando
hits, including songs from her previous albums such as “Who Says” and “Come and Get it.” The enthusiastic crowd did not go unnoticed. The 24-yearold singer lauded the Filipino fans, saying their cheers might have been the loudest she has ever heard so far. Before ending the hour-long concert, Selena also managed to squeeze in some Tagalog words to connect to her Filipino fans.
“Please don’t be mad at me if I get this wrong. Mahal Kita… I guarantee you, we will be back,” she said. From the Disney Channel child actress that she once was, Selena transformed herself to a grown-up woman with her bold songs that reflect her big ambitions. For the Manila leg, Selena performed almost twenty songs, completing the hour long show.
6
entertainment
The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 3, 2016
Angeline Quinto impresses Joel Lamangan by Ricky
caldeRon ManilaTimes.net
AWARD-WINNINg filmmaker Joel Lamangan has not done a comedy film for quite some time now. So he was pleased when Regal Entertainment offered him to helm “That Thing Called Tanga Na” written by Senedy Que. “It was high time I do a comedy film so I accepted. I was doing mostly serious movies for indie producers, and I wanted to have a good laugh on the set for a change,” said the noted director at the press conference Regal’s latest production. Direk Joel said he was allowed to give lots of input in this story of four guys and a lady who all have problems
when it comes to love. “The story is about people in love and who become fools in the process—this is common to everyone, right? When it comes to love, we all become foolish, and the story doesn’t deny that,” he said. Direk Joel especially liked the unique casting of Eric Quizon, Billy Crawford, Kean Cipriano, Martin Escudero and Angeline Quinto to deliver the story, which despite being a comedy proves to be a challenge. “All comedies are challenging to do because if people don’t laugh then it’s a complete failure,” he explained. He further related that audiences will be able to relate to Continued on Page 7 Angeline Quinto
Juday and Piolo on working together... From Page 5 “Piolo and I are OK, we greet whenever we bump into each other. It was just funny because people sort of felt that we quarreled. No we didn’t. We greet each other, we’re older now and we’re more mature,” Santos explained. “Maybe the time that we weren’t able to work together is a big factor and it so it’s like a big event for them when they see us together,” she added. The two also expressed their willingness to do an acting project again soon. “Movies maybe, but not a teleserye [because it’s hard schedulewise]. I actually pitched [a concept] to her through Direk Joyce (Bernal)— I heard she liked it so we’ll wait for the right timing’,” Pascual shared. For Santos’ part, she added, “I always say that nothing is impossible. Every time I have a press con, Piolo’s name will always be included in the questions, so yes in time we will work together again. Nothing is impossible as long as we will be given the opportunity, the right
story, and everything will work out smoothly.” Pascual admitted and acknowledged as he has always done that Santos helped him get to where his career is today. “She’s a big part of my career and we did a lot of movies and TV shows together so the debt of gratitude is there for Juday, and seeing her today is great because she’s still active in the business and so am I,” he elaborated. On the other hand, Santos who was away from the spotlight after having another child with husband Ryan Agoncillo said there she still gets jitters whenever she faces the media after a long tme. “Of course, it’s always good to be back. It’s always a good feeling to be back. I miss this but at the same time I’m nervous to face the press again. This is me not being confident with my physical appearance, but then again I’m just happy to see familiar faces,” she opened up. Sharing updates about baby Luna, the third among
her children Yohan and Lucho, “She’s six months now and a lot bigger. She’s very adorable. It also feels good to stay home because you see all of her milestones.” On the other hand, Pascual also came to the event from a two-month vacation from showbiz. He shared took up a shortterm course on Apologetics in Oxford University in England. “I studied Apologetics abroad. It’s all about defending your faith, knowing where you stand as you walk in your faith. I think it’s important that you know the answers to all the questions around us. I am glad because I was able to learn more and acquire more knowledge about Christianity. I was with Jodi (Sta.Maria), Hayden (Kho) and Dr. (Vicky) Belo (Vicky Belo),” Pascual related. “I became a regular person during that leave so it’s a little hard to get back to the old grind like this. In two months I was able to at least get a lot of rest and spend time with my family and relax,” he concluded.
features
Coping with the new forms of journalism Moonlighting by Mylah de
leon
On blogs, cable news and radio, they take aim at the print. They provide people with social media tools to gauge the trustworthiness of specific news outlets and individual stories, with less genteel intentions. Why wouldn’t they? As one wag said, newspapering has always been a boisterous, brawling affair. I write all the time, it’s a metabolic necessity for me. I love it, as it is more fun than anything. It is a tactile, physical pleasure. I am not one of those who despairs about the printed word. They are the primary carriers of ideas, and I write when I get impatient, depressed, or overjoyed. I write with a stylus pen on a yellow tablet in my room, on airplanes, beauty parlors — anywhere. There is the itch to write and I would explode if I couldn’t scribble.
I have practiced target shooting with Ramon Tulfo, fainted inside the death chamber, walked all over a thousand corpses at the Ormoc City flood tragedy, ran around with the intrepid photographer Edong Reyes between hails of gunfire in the bloodiest coup de etat during President Cory Aquino’s reign, told off by a Prince and had tucked to bed a super playboy celebrity. This is my job. news magazines here is a serious industry, catering to the needs of a public that wants to be told what’s new, what they should know about. To cater that need, I did not do justice to that reality, because no matter what happens during an interview, once it ends, I can’t think of any other loyalty other than the pressure of an immediate deadline. The style and tone of the editor and between circulation figures and advertising revenue, somewhere the subject is lost. I’ve always searched for the truth or essence behind each person, story or experience. Ironically, sometimes it will come from something I’d previously ignored: an un-
comfortable silence, a small misunderstanding. Some scattered thoughts that had been compressed into a sound bite or the dramatic I’ve chosen to ignore. We spent time working on our stories, but actually, it is the waiting for just one moment of truth or authenticity. After all, you can tell a lot about a person or experience in a minute. But how can one choose the right minute? I write at home, in bed, even as everyone tells me I am going to ruin the bed. My two small grandchildren would crawl on the bed, run around and put their arms around my neck. I had to have that! With my pointer I’ve learned to point and peck on my Ipad. I don’t know how to use the keys so I just poke and poke. But what is certain as the sun, this is what I will do the rest of my life! Yet, for all my projection of confidence, (through sheer will) your Moonlighter confronts the future with fragility. *** E-mail Mylah at moonlightingmdl@ aol.com
Liza Soberano clarifies status with Enrique Gil LIzA Soberano denied that she and Enrique Gil are already a couple. In a previous interview aired in “Tonight with Boy Abunda,” the Kapamilya actor said that they already treat each other as boyfriend and girlfriend. “Hoy, hindi ah!” said Liza when asked about their relationship, in an interview aired in “Tonight with Boy Abunda” last Friday, July 29. She added, “‘Yong lolo ko ayaw pa niya. Sabi niya hintay pa raw ako ng mga 25 [years old].” However, when asked if it is okay for her to be “exclusive” with Enrique, Liza’s short and sweet reply is “kung gusto niya, gusto mo ba? Okay lang.” (Joyce Jimenez/Philstar. com)
Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 3, 2016
Angeline Quinto impresses Joel... From Page 6
at least one if not most of the characters in the movie—the gay benefactor in Eric; Kean who dreams of getting married; Billy who is a closet gay; Martin who is eager to start a family; and Angeline who prays to for someone to love her faithfully. “The problems they have in their relationships are so common, but how they face those problems are told in a very comic manner.” Direk Joel was particularly pleased with Angeline, with whom he is working with for the first time. “Besides being a good singer, she is also a good comedian in the mold of Maricel Soriano. I had not met her personally but I had heard about her, and I was surprised she knows how to act. She doesn’t seem like a newbie in acting,” he imparted. “Usually, I have a reputation that scares artists who work with me for the first time but Angeline was not scared of me at all. I saw her challenged more than anything. She is confident and tells me if she doesn’t know how to handle a particular scene and I like that she is vocal and straightforward.” *** This month has been a colorful one for sexy mom and actress Sunshine Cruz. She was chosen among the 100 Sexiest Women by men’s magazine FHM, ranking 48th in the list. According to the write-up about her in the magazine, and we quote, “We’ve talked about women breaking the law of physics by still having the body of a 20-year-old when they’re pushing 40, but Sunshine Cruz just blows our mind with how fit her body looks every damn summer—it’s just unbelievable.” Sunshine walked the runway at FHM’s big event on Tuesday night where she wowed the crowd with her commanding presence. Sunshine tells us that besides aiming to be healthy,
her continued projects on TV since the start of the year has inspired her to stay fit. She is currently in the ABS-CBn soap Dolce Amore and is glad that she has a regular show to remind people that she is very much around in show business.
Sunshine is doing her best to provide for her children as a single mother, albeit with support from her ex-husband Cesar Montano. Turning a year wiser on July 18, we wish this beautiful woman more success ahead of her.
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 3, 2016
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28%
2$
ISLAND PACIFIC SEAFOOD MARKET LONG BEACH
1
Boy Bawang Little Giant Tortilla (Smoking BBQ/Nacho Cheese) 200g WAS
bread republic
50%
Pampanga Lucban Longganisa 12oz WAS
3
SAVINGS
2$
for
$4.29
lbs for
1
555 Sardines Reg/ Hot 5.5oz
pick of the week! Calpico Mini (lychee/ orig/straw/mango) 4pack
lbs for
2$
for
SAVINGS
16%
33%
Bin-Bin Rice Cracker 106g WAS
$1.19
SAVINGS
17%