July 5-7, 2017 Volume 27 - No. 54 • 3 Sections - 20 Pages
Pacquiao camp mulls rematch or retirement after stunning defeat by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
IN what was considered as one of the greatest upsets in the recent world boxing history, Manny Pacquiao lost his World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title to Jeff Horn in a stunning, unanimous decision on Sunday, July 2. Needless to say, many were shocked at the results. After all, stats from the CompuBox showed that Pacquiao landed about twice more punches than Horn. At one point during the match, the referee also warned Horn: “Show me something in the next round or I’m gonna stop the fight.” But the judges still awarded the crown to
the Australian challenger after giving the final scores of 117-111, 115-113, 115-113, all in favor of Horn. While Horn’s determination was undoubtedly acknowledged, many viewers couldn’t find themselves agreeing with the three judges. Even boxing trainer and ESPN commentator Teddy Atlas expressed his frustration a second later after the decision was announced. “They gave a trophy, a win, a huge win to Horn, the local kid for trying hard. You’re not supposed to get for trying hard, you’re supposed to get it for winning!” Atlas exclaimed.
USA
DATELINE Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti inaugurated into second term FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
City attorney, city controller and councilmembers also sworn in
LOS ANGELES Mayor Eric Garcetti was sworn into his second term on Saturday, July 1 at a grand oath-taking ceremony that focused on rebuilding the metropolis through solving the housing crisis, crime prevention and standing up against the “demagoguery” of the Trump administration. Standing in front of City Hall on Spring Street, the re-elected mayor looked back on the progress made during his last four years of “bringing the city back to the basics” and restoring economic upturn. “Today, let us imagine farther into our future,” Garcetti addressed a crowd of more than 400 Angelenos, envisioning a “city reborn” that has proven itself on its ability to rebuild and that continues to grow. “Los Angeles, we are builders. We have be-
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BATTLE OF BRISBANE. Aussie challenger Jeff Horn (left) and defending champion Manny Pacquiao face off during the “Battle of Brisbane” WBO welterweight title bout in Brisbane, Australia, Sunday. Horn defeated Pacquiao via unanimous decision. Photo courtesy of Top Rank
US offers help in Marawi rehabilitation by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
THE government of the United States has offered its help to rebuild Marawi City once the fighting is over, Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said on Monday, July 3. According to Lorenzana, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte welcomes U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim told him about the Sung Kim at the Music Room of Malacañang Palace on Monday, July 3. offer during their meeting last Malacañang photo week.
“I met with Ambassador Kim last week, and they said: ‘If you need some help, let us discuss…’ So, we’ll still talk about what kind of aid we’ll get,” Lorenzana was quoted saying in an Inquirer report. “So, we are now preparing the rehabilitation plan and we are now preparing the mechanism to go into the rehabilitation and recovery, as soon as the fighting stops in Marawi,” he added.
Asked in a briefing if the U.S. would extend its help in the form of monetary aid, Lorenzana told reporters that specifics about the assistance has yet to be discussed. “We do not know yet but we have already gotten some information that they will help,” he replied. “We do not know if they are going to help in kind or in funds or whatever.”
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Supreme Court to rule martial law legal by JOMAR
CANLAS ManilaTimes.net
THE Supreme Court (SC) is poised to dismiss all petitions questioning the validity of the declaration of martial law in Mindanao as majority of the magistrates believe that Proclamation 216 is constitutional, sources said. Unimpeachable sources of The Manila Times inside the high court said an overwhelming majority of the justices are set to affirm the legality of Proclamation 216 issued by President Rodrigo
Duterte on May 23, 2017. The proclamation also suspended the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in the whole of Mindanao. Members of the high court will cast their votes during an en banc session on Tuesday, July 4. Court insiders who asked not to be identified said Associate Justice Mariano del Castillo had circulated a well-crafted draft decision that cleared Duterte from charges that he abused his discretion when he signed the proclamation. One source said that in his 83-
page draft decision, Del Castillo said the court “finds sufficient factual basis” for the declaration of martial law in Mindanao. Several justices have manifested their agreement with Del Castillo’s draft ponencia, while others have submitted their separate concurring and dissenting opinions, among them Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, Justices Antonio Carpio, Diosdado Peralta, Estela Perlas-Bernabe, Bienvenido Reyes and Marvic Policemen distribute flyers detailing the dangers of drug addiction during an “Oplan Tokhang” conducted in Marikina City. Leonen. Philstar.com photo by Edd Gumban The source said that 10 to 14
ASEAN can use PH drug Young Fil-Am leaders PH business sector satisfied with Duterte’s performance war as a guide, solon says share experience of immersion trip to PH u PAGE A4
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by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
FILIPINO Americans between the ages of 25 to 40 years old are encouraged to apply for this year’s Fil-Am Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO), a week-long immersion trip to the Philippines. FYLPRO — which was started in 2012 by former Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia Jr. and his wife, Victoria — chooses 10 “outstanding young professionals” from Fil-Am communities across the country to visit the Philippines, where they will meet with key players in government, business, social entrepreneurship, and arts and culture.
AS Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte marked his first year in office on Friday, June 30, both foreign and local business groups expressed general satisfaction in his administration’s performance. While admitting that there were indeed lapses on the part of the government, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) President George Barcelon said that businessmen remains confident in Duterte’s leadership. “There are detractors, but you can never say everything is perfect. There are shortcomings but overall the confidence of businessmen is there. It’s a good start. It’s a good foundation for the economy,” Barcelon told the Philippine Star.
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Encourage applicants to apply before July 21
by AUDREY
MORALLO Philstar.com
MANILA — The Philippines can serve as a model for neighboring Southeast Asian nations in fighting illegal narcotics, according to a congressman, despite accusations of human rights violations in the key government campaign. Surigao Del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers said that countries in the region could use the Philippines’ “aggressive” campaign against illegal drugs as a template in their own battle to rid illicit drugs in their respective territories. Barbers, chairman of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, said that Southeast Asian nations could do this despite allegations that the Philippine government and national police has committed cases of human rights violations usually targeting poorer segments of urban areas. Barbers was speaking at a media conference announcing that the country is hosting the 13th ASEAN In this file photo, top officials of the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) marked the first trading day of 2017 with a special bell ringing ceremony at the Ayala and Tektite trading Inter-Parliamentary Assembly Fact-Finding Commitfloors.
Philstar.com photo
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From the Front Page
Pacquiao camp mulls rematch... PAGE A1 But Atlas’ rants didn’t stop there, as he told Horn to his face: “Congratulations, great effort, but I thought you lost.” Lennox Lewis, the undisputed world heavyweight champion, also expressed outrage at the result. “This is what’s wrong with boxing. Horn was very game but I’m hard pressed to see how he could have won that fight by any stretch!” he tweeted. While saying that he respects the judges’ decisions, Pacquiao believed that he “clearly” won the fight. “We’re ahead. By four to five rounds in my opinion,” Pacquiao told reporters. “It’s too much. I would believe the decision more if it was close, say 115—113.” He also criticized the referee of their match, saying, “The referee is not knowledgeable. Feeling ko tuloy na-set up ako (I felt like I was set up).”
Asked about the possibility of a rematch, Pacquiao said he is “definitely” open to the idea. “We have a clause for a rematch. No problem,” Pacquiao said. For some, however, the results of the match likely showed signs that Pacquiao should hang up his gloves for good — with the Filipino boxing icon not getting any younger at the age of 38. “The reason why they’re OK with this decision is Manny Pacquiao tonight did show his age, at 38 years of age,” Timothy Bradley told ESPN. He went on to say, “He showed his age tonight. Horn was out. He was out in, I think, it was the eighth or ninth round. Pacquiao had him hurt, but then, the next round after that, you saw Pacquiao laying off the gas pedal. You saw Horn come on the next two rounds, might’ve stole the next two rounds in this fight.” While nothing is definite, coach
Freddie Roach said he’ll discuss with Pacquiao about the possibilities of retiring. “‘I’m going to have to have a long talk with Manny and discuss this, see how he feels and I’m going to give him my feelings on it too because I’m a little bit in the middle right now,” Roach said. Despite the unfavorable results in his recent match, Malacañang, in a statement, said Pacquiao remains the “People’s Champ” and “Pambansang Kamao (National Fist).” “Manny Pacquiao’s loss in Brisbane would not diminish the honors he bestowed to the people and to the flag,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella stressed. “Nothing will change: Sen. Manny Pacquiao will remain our People’s Champ, Pambansang Kamao (National Fist), and national treasure in global sports.” Horn, who remains undefeated, seemed to not care much about
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CABINET MEETING. President Rodrigo Duterte presides over the 16th Cabinet meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room in Malacañang Palace on Monday, July 3. Malacañang photo
US offers help in Marawi... PAGE A1 In a social media post, Kim reaffirmed the U.S. government’s support for the Philippines in its counter-terrorism and rehabilitation efforts in Marawi City. Kim, likewise, said he had “great discussion” with Philippine Rodrigo Duterte during their meeting on Monday. “Great discussion with pres. Duterte: shared concerns re terrorist threat; reaffirmed our support for C/T & rehabilitation efforts in Marawi,” Kim said in a tweet. Also on Monday, Lorenzana announced the creation of an inter-agency task force for the “recovery, reconstruction, and rehabilitation” of Marawi City and other localities affected by
the ongoing confrontation between the Islamic State-linked Maute group and the government forces. The inter-agency, also dubbed as the “Task Force Bangon Marawi,” was formed under Duterte’s Administrative Order No. 3. “So, we are now preparing the rehabilitation plan and we are now preparing the mechanism to go into the rehabilitation and recovery, as soon as the fighting stops in Marawi,” said Lorenzana, who is also the designated chairperson of the group. According to him, the rehabilitation funds will come from the P20-billion pesos earlier approved by Duterte. The amount, he said, still has the possibility to be augmented.
Being the chairman of the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) at the same time, Lorenzana added that he would likewise tap the NDRRMC “as the vehicle to implement the rehabilitation” of the affected areas. “I’m going to use the NDRRMC as the vehicle to implement the rehabilitation of Marawi because we consider the events in Marawi as man-made disaster,” he explained. Lorenzana went on to say, “So the first thing that we would do after the fighting stops is to clear the areas of any left IEDs or any explosives. After which, we are going to allow the return of the civilians, of the residents of Marawi.” n
Supreme Court to rule martial law...
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justices are likely to vote to declare martial law legal and constitutional. The only issue of contention is on territorial coverage because some of the magistrates believe that martial rule should be limited in several areas. So far, only one magistrate had issued a dissenting opinion to the draft decision of Del Castillo. One of those who want martial law confined to Lanao del Sur and some areas near Marawi City, which was attacked by the Maute Group. Enough safeguards In his draft decision, Del Castillo said the 1987 Constitution has enough safeguards to protect the people from possible martial law abuses. It added that while the high court has the judicial power to review the sufficiency of the factual basis for the declaration of martial law or the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus, such power does not extend to the calibration of the president’s decision in a given situation. Thus, the draft decision declared that the high tribunal cannot encroach on the powers of the executive and the legislative whether to revoke or extend the proclamation of martial law.
Some lawmakers led by Rep. Edcel Lagman, Tomasito Villarin, Gary Alejano, Emmanuel Billones and Teddy Brawner Baguilat, Jr. have questioned the martial law declaration, claiming that there was no invasion or rebellion endangering public safety to justify Proclamation 216. But Del Castillo said the unverified news articles submitted by the petitioners do not constitute as evidence. In his draft decision, the magistrate said only the President has the vital intelligence and classified information that cloaks him with the power to decide whether to impose martial rule or not. Another consolidated petition filed by activists and lawmakers representing ACT party-list, Gabriela Women’s party-list and Kabataan party-list, and four female Marawi City residents is pending at the SC. The two petitions asking the court to compel the House of Representatives and Senate to hold a joint session and scrutinized martial law will not be included in the voting since the issues are different. The petitions were filed by former Senator Rene Saguisag, former Commission on Elec-
tions chairman Christian Monsod, former Commission on Human Rights chairperson Loretta Ann Rosales, former Philippine Health Insurance Corp. president Alexander Padilla, lawyer Rene Gorospe and Sen. Leila de Lima. Duterte has threatened to jail critics of martial law. The President had said that he would ignore the findings of the court, which has constitutional oversight, vowing only to listen to recommendations from the armed forces. “It’s not dependent on the whim of the Supreme Court. Should I believe them? When I see the situation is still chaotic and you ask me to lift it? I will arrest you and put you behind bars,” Duterte said in a speech before local officials on Saturday, July 1. “We can talk of anything else and make compromises maybe but not when the interest of my country is at stake,” he added. Government forces continue to battle Maute group terrorists in Marawi. Aerial bombardment and ferocious street-to-street combat has left some 400 people dead and forced nearly 400,000 people to flee their homes. (With reports from AFP)
ASEAN can use Philippine drug war... PAGE A1 tee to Combat the Drug Menace to be held in Manila on July 4 to 8, 2017. “Yeah, I think so,” the Surigao Del Norte representative said when asked if the Philippine approach could be adopted. Since President Rodrigo Duterte assumed the presidency a little more than a year ago, the government has taken a very tough stance against illegal drugs. Police have been aggressive in their anti-narcotics operations, and as the months dragged on the number of deaths have escalated. Rights watchdogs have said that more than 7,000 deaths have occurred. The national government disputes this and says that only 3,200 drug suspects have been killed in police operations. The government also said that only 2,098 of 12,833 homicides since July 2016 are related to drugs. Another 8,200 are still undergoing investigation and authorities have yet to determine motives for those killings. Other countries could name judges, politicians and generals involved in the illegal drug trade, similar to what Duterte did in the past, according to Barbers. “Well, so far for the first year, the naming of all these narcogenerals, narco-judges, narcopoliticians are products of intelligence gathering, and we have been addressing that,” he said, referring to the sensational list of the president containing names of government, police and military figures allegedly benefiting
Infographics by Philstar.com
from the illegal drugs trade. However, months after the chief executive bared the socalled “narco-list” few of those on it have been apprehended, jailed and sued. Some of the names have also been proven to be dead or not at all connected to drugs. ‘Be aggressive, bold and brazen’ Barbers said that other countries could be “aggressive, bold and brazen,” too, in their campaigns and to be ready to face the problem “head-on.” He however clarified that he was not advising other nations to kill when needed as he admitted that the government’s local
campaign had been marred by rights abuses. “Well, I’m not going to advise them to kill if needed, but what perhaps I will advise them is that to be aggressive and bold, and brazen in the fight against drugs,” Barbers said. “The enemy here is not an ordinary enemy. They (sic) will kill you. They are more aggressive than any law enforcement agency in the country. So we have to fight them head-on,” he said. Thailand launched a war on drugs in 2003, where 2,500 were killed in the span of three months. That campaign included the use of lists of supposed PAGE A5
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Dateline USa
Drop in sudden cardiac arrests linked to Obamacare by Jenny
Gold Kaiser Health News
If 22 million Americans lose their health care coverage by 2026 under the GOP Senate’s plan to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, how many people could die? The question is at the heart of the debate raging in Washington, D.C., but has been difficult to answer. “Show me the data on lives saved by Obamacare, please,” conservative political scientist Charles Murray requested in a recent tweet. A pilot study published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Heart Association may provide an answer: Researchers found that the rate of sudden cardiac arrest outside of a hospital dropped by 17 percent among people ages 45-64 in Multnomah County, Oregon, after the Affordable Care Act expanded insurance coverage. The study analyzed sudden cardiac arrest data from the emergency medical system in 2011-12 before the ACA, and compared the data from 201415, after insurance coverage expanded. During that time, the percentage of people in Multnomah County with Medicaid coverage nearly doubled, from 7 percent to 13.5 percent. Early indicator Cardiac arrest can serve as an early indicator to show how an increase in health insurance coverage under the ACA might affect mortality. Each year, about 350,000 people in the United States have a sudden cardiac arrest, in which the heart unexpectedly stops beating. It is one of the most deadly types of heart attacks — only 1 in 10 patients survive it. “It speaks to the importance of predicting and preventing [cardiac arrest], because once it happens, it’s much too late,” said Dr. Sumeet Chugh, medical director of the Heart Rhythm Center of the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute in California and one of the authors of the study. The good news is that nearly
half of patients experience warning symptoms, offering an opportunity for intervention, said Chugh. Cholesterol and blood pressure medication, diet and exercise, and surgical interventions can all help stave off sudden cardiac arrest. But patients without health insurance might ignore their symptoms and avoid seeing a doctor. “Imagine that you’re someone with a warning symptom. If you had insurance or access to health care that was relatively easy, you might be more inclined to see a provider. If you didn’t, you might let it go for a while,” said Chugh. Consistent Chugh cautions that the study population was small and did not examine other factors that could have led to a decline in cardiac arrests. Still, it is consistent with other studies that found a link between Medicaid expansion and a decline in mortality. Chugh and fellow author Eric Stecker of the Oregon Health & Science University plan follow-up studies to narrow in on the causes in Multnomah County. Michael McWilliams of the Department of Health Care Policy at Harvard Medical School, who was not involved in the study, questioned the large reduction in cardiac arrests seen in the study, saying it “seems too good to be true.” Still, he said assessing the effects of health insurance on clinical outcomes like cardiac arrest is notoriously difficult, and there is good evidence that health insurance improves access to care and diagnosis of important conditions. “I think when we focus on the lack of consensus evidence on the effects of coverage on hard outcomes like mortality, and use that as an argument against covering the uninsured, I think we let perfect be the enemy of good,” McWilliams said. Uninsured Take James frank, 64, of Lancaster, California, who was uninsured several years ago when he first started experiencing the
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US fleet sails near South China Sea island A ‘strong provocation,’ says China
James Frank signed on to Obamacare via Covered California when he started experiencing the symptoms of heart disease. Contributed photo
symptoms of heart disease. “I couldn’t catch my breath, I was wheezing,” frank recalled. “I felt like I had like a chest cold. My feet were tingling. I was getting the sweats.” In 2013, frank had a heart attack and was taken to the emergency room. He signed up for coverage under Covered California, the state’s health insurance exchange, which opened in 2013 for coverage that began in January 2014. His doctor put him on a statin and blood pressure medication to prevent another heart attack, and he started watching his weight religiously. frank was quick to add that the coverage he gained under the ACA has not been perfect — his premium and deductibles are high, and he thinks that Congress should repair it. Still, he believes the health law saved his life. “I had the same heart attack that killed my mother,” he said. “Had it not been for Obamacare, I probably would have had another one. *** This story was produced by Kaiser Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation. n
A UNITED States Navy destroyer on Sunday, July 2, sailed within 12 nautical miles of a disputed island in the South China Sea that is claimed by China,Vietnam and Taiwan. The Pentagon confirmed earlier that an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer of the U.S. Navy called USS Stethem, passed by the Triton Island in the Parcel Islands to “test the claims of the three countries.” A spokesman for the U.S. Pacific fleet, Lt. Cmdr. Matt Knight did not confirm the recent exercise but said the activity is part of the routine of the U.S. Navy operations. “We conduct routine and regular fONOPs, as we have done in the past and will continue to do in the future. Summaries of these operations are released publicly in the annual DoD freedom of Navigation Report, and not sooner,” Knight said in a statement. The U.S. Pacific fleet maintains that their recent operations is not
Young Fil-Am leaders share...
PAGE A1 In addition to meetings, one day is devoted to service, such as farming or rebuilding areas destroyed by disasters. Applications for the sixth batch are due on July 21 and the weeklong trip will be held from October 8 to 14. The all-expense paid program is made possible through partnerships with the Ayala foundation and the Philfor their match, Pacquiao and ippine foreign service posts Horn have been guaranteed to throughout the U.S. earn a minimum purse of $10 At an information session in million and $500,000 respec- Los Angeles on friday, June 30, tively, according to Dan Rafael of past delegates shared their expeESPN. n riences of how the trip, despite its length, enabled them to connect with their filipino roots. “This trip gives you that perspective of the different societal norms, the economic issues, a firsthand look at what the government is doing, access to members of Congress, and understanding the innovation they’re doing as well, ” shared Alex De Ocampo, who was part of the inaugural batch in 2012. He added, “You’re seeing the
Pacquiao camp mulls rematch... PAGE A2 the “naysayers” who kept on lashing criticisms against him. “There will always be a backlash where people say I got lucky, or whatever. There will always be
the naysayers saying I didn’t win the fight, but I felt like I won the fight,” Horn said. “Everyone has a right to their opinion. I’m sure I’ve (gained) a lot more fans over there than I’ve lost.”
politically-motivated as they have done the same kind of operation before. “We have a comprehensive freedom of Navigation Operations program under which US forces challenge excessive maritime claims across the globe to demonstrate our commitment to uphold the rights, freedoms, and uses of the sea and airspace guaranteed to all nations under international law,” the US Pacific fleet said. A statement from the Chinese Ministry of foreign Affairs Lu Kang said the U.S. had “trespassed” and that China sent “military vessels and fighter planes in response to warn off the U.S. vessel.” China expressed their dissatisfaction of the U.S. operation and called it “a serious political and military provocation.” The U.S. “stirs up trouble” and runs “in the opposite direction from countries in the region who aspire for stability, cooperation and
differences in the country and how it’s changing. It was very impactful in the sense that you’re seeing growth, you’re seeing some poverty — the extremes. But it’s really opening up your mind to what’s happening in the Philippines.” Anna Marie Cruz, a business development officer at CDC Small Business finance, went on to say that the itinerary gives an opportunity to have a dialogue with various decision makers. “It also leads to a lot of identity questions because a lot of these problems we have a rooted in our colonial history [and] the ‘crab mentality’ we experience here is rooted in [that], so whether it’s this epiphany of what you can do for the community as a whole or what you do for yourself in order to rise above that baggage you’ve been carrying but didn’t know about, it’s a pretty amazing program that it can do that for you,” Cruz said. “It’s personal, but it’s also this collective.” During the program, each delegate has the responsibility to develop his or her own “legacy
development,” the ministry statement said. further, Beijing called on Washington to cease from operating within China’s territory which “violates their sovereignty and threaten their security.” “The Chinese side will continue to take all necessary means to defend national sovereignty and security,” Lu said. According to CNN, the operation on Sunday happened days after the Trump administration “made a number of moves that appeared to irk Beijing.” This include “sanctions against Chinese entities doing business with North Korea and the approval of a new arms trade to Taiwan. Sunday’s operation was the second reported under the Trump administration. The first one was on May 24, when the guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey sailed within 12 miles of Mischief Reef in the Spratly Islands. (Jennifer Soriano/AJPress)
project,” which is a social impact initiative focused on the Philippines and filipino communities abroad that are social enterprise, philanthropic or civic engagement focused. Some past examples include empowering filipina entrepreneurs and HIV research and prevention. Other alumni of the program over the years include Tony and Grammy Award-winning producer Jhett Tolentino, restaurateur Nicole Ponseca, Ryan Letada of storytelling platform NextDayBetter, and Jason Tengco, executive director of the National federation of filipino-American Associations (NaffAA). The criteria is that applicants must be 25-40 years old, demonstrate leadership skills within school, community or workplace, and show involvement or interest in issues that align with the interest of the fil-Am community or the Philippines. Requirements include an intent to apply form, an application form, resume, two letters of recommendation, a profile photo and 200-word bio. To apply, visithttp://www.fylpro.org/apply/. (AJPress)
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti inaugurated... PAGE A1 gun that work, and we need to keep at it,” Garcetti, 46, said. “We spent four years going back to the basics because we owed it to ourselves and to our future so we can connect the city, connect its people and connect its future.” During his first term, he made housing the city’s homeless a top priority. During the last general election, he endorsed Measure H which would implement a sales tax to fund services and rehab programs for the homeless. On Saturday, that measure went into effect. “We want every unhoused Angeleno to have a home where they are healthy and safe and where they can pursue their dreams,” he said. “Because every person living on our streets — they have dreams, too. And if that means new laws or reforming the laws that we have so that we can build the homes this city needs, let us start that work today.” During the local elections in March, Garcetti was re-elected as LA’s 42nd mayor with a historic 81 percent of the vote. He had won mainly on his campaign promise to improve the city’s public transit system and to relieve the city’s rampant housing crisis; in his address on Saturday, he assured these two issues will be a top priority during his second term. Since the election of President Donald Trump, Garcetti has also established LA as a sanctuary city that has vowed to challenge many of the president’s policies, especially immigration. “In Los Angeles, we may be an imperfect paradise, but we are still here for every seeker of tolerance, every immigrant fleeing war, every native and new arrival who will put her shoulder to the wheel to help perfect this paradise and this land,” the mayor said. The grand ceremony started off with a performance by a jazz band from UCLA as well as demonstrations by table tennis players and fencers to emphasize the city’s bid
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti was sworn into his second term on Saturday, July 1 at a grand oathtaking ceremony that focused on rebuilding the metropolis through solving the housing crisis, crime prevention and standing up against the “demagoguery” of the Trump administration. AJPress photos by Klarize Medenilla
for the 2024 Olympic Games. Right before the oath-takings, opera singer Angel Joy Blue delivered a forceful rendition of the national anthem. Next, Rabbi Sharon Brous delivered an impassioned invocation that praised LA’s diversity and commitment to remaining a sanctuary city, saying that “this is a city, not build at the intersection of the 10, the 110 and the 101, but at the intersection of hope, faith and love.” following Brous was actor, activist and Boyle Heights native George Takei, who spoke out against the Trump administration and encouraged Angelenos to push through the challenges of the city and the nation. “We stand today on the edge of a new frontier, a frontier of unknown opportunities and perils, a frontier of unfulfilled hopes and threats,” Takei said.
The politically-charged ceremony was not without protest with several protesters from Black Lives Matter heckling the mayor as soon as he began his address. Police escorted about a dozen protesters — who were there to speak out against city’s handling of police brutality and demanded the resignation of LAPD Police Chief Charlie Beck — out of the venue and indicated that no one was arrested. The city also swore in City Attorney Mike feuer and City Controller Ron Galperin. Councilmembers Gil Cedillo (District 1) Bob Blumenfield (District 3), Paul Koretz (District 5), Monica Rodriguez (District 7), Curren Price (District 9), Mike Bonin (District 11) and Mitch O’farrell (District 13) were also sworn into office. (Klarize Medenilla/AJ Press)
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Dateline PhiliPPines
Defense chief orders troops to end Marawi conflict before SONA by Jennifer
Soriano
AJPress
DEPArTMENT of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana ordered government troops to accomplish their mission in Marawi before President rodrigo Duterte delivers his State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the end of the month. At a press briefing in Malacañang on Monday, July 3, Lorenzana expressed his hopes that the Marawi siege would cease just before Duterte delivers his SONA on July 24. “Sana tapos na (I hope it would end) and that is one of the things that I have asked the commanders on the ground that if they could terminate the conflict there before the president goes on his SONA,” Lorenzana said. Expressing empathy, the defense chief shared his thoughts during his trip to Iligan with Duterte to visit Marawi evacuees. “This is very important. I’ve seen the faces of those evacuees in Iligan…They’re so frustrated and so anxious to go back home. Ito ‘yung nakita din ni president noong nandun kami (this is what the president have also seen when we visited there),” the defense secretary said. Lorenzana, who chairs the newly-created interagency task force for the recovery, reconstruction and rehabilitation of Marawi City called “Bangon
Marawi,” is hoping that the rebuilding efforts will start when the president delivers his annual address. “And we’d like the president, when he goes there and delivers his SONA, is that ongoing na ‘yung ating rehab (that the rehab will be ongoing), at tsaka (and also) maybe most of the people in these outskirts dito ay nakabalik na sa bahay nila (people here in the outskirts would have returned to their homes),” he added. While putting aside promises, Lorenzana ensured the public that the government will continue to do its best to complete its mission as timely as possible. “I said a while ago, the people on the ground, they do not want to give a timeline now. But they are trying hard to finish it as soon as possible. Kasi ako nasunog na ako tatlong beses (I got burned three times). I keep putting deadlines three times I was—nakuryente na ako kaya ayaw ko na ring magsabi (I got ‘electrocuted’ so I don’t want to say anything),” he said. “And since it is urban fighting, for which a lot of our troops are not prepared, medyo (somewhat)…They are learning as they go along on how to fight in this built-up area,” he said. Kaya ‘yun ang nakatagal talaga diyan sa problema (So that made the problem longer). So we are not going to put any deadline,” he added.
The defense chief also laid out what the department’s priority concerns will be once the clashes in Marawi stop. “So the first thing that we would do after the fighting stops is to clear the areas of any left IEDs or any explosives. After which, we are going to allow the return of the civilians, of the residents of Marawi,” he said. He added that it will take “some time to clear the area,” as about 1,500 houses and buildings are not vacated. The latest data estimates that at least 459 people — 336 suspected terrorists, 39 civilians, and 84 government troops — have been killed since the clashes erupted. Around 72,000 families have been displaced. Lorenzana said that Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon is still inside the battleground in Marawi City hiding inside a mosque. Further, the U.S. has relayed its intent to help once the government has taken over the war-torn city for the rehabilitation. “I met with Ambassador Kim last week, and they said: ‘If you need some help, let us discuss…’So, we’ll still talk about what kind of aid we’ll get,’” Lorenzana said. On May 23, Duterte declared martial law following a clash between government troops and the Maute terror group. n
ASEAN can use Philippine drug war... PAGE A2 drug personalities who were arrested and killed. A government investigation years later found that more than half of the 2,500 who died had nothing to do with the drug trade, according to Australian news website The Conversation. The rights violations that critics say have attended Duterte’s drug war may have been committed by “corrupt” law enforcement officials “eager” to run after drug lords and pushers, according to Barbers.
He also defended Duterte against criticisms that he had been tolerating and enabling extrajudicial killings in the conduct of his campaign against illegal drugs. “The human rights violations is (sic) definitely not coming from a direct order coming from the president,” said Barbers, ignoring the results of the investigations of both rights groups and media finding that the president’s words and actions may have led to the rising number of killings.
He added: “This is probably the result of some eager beaver PNP officers running after all these drug lords and drug pushers.” One thing that ASEAN countries could do in their reinvigorated campaign against illicit drugs was the sharing of information about drug lords and suspects with local enforcement agencies, Barbers said. “We share information with the local law enforcement agents in other ASEAN member countries,” he said. n
MAJECTIC MAYON. Airline passengers enjoy a clear view of the magnificent Mayon volcano from the Legazpi City airport in the Albay province. PNA photo by Oliver Marquez
PH business sector satisfied... PAGE A1 He lauded some of Duterte’s “game changer” policies, citing in particular his campaign against illegal drugs—which has been criticized by some over due to alleged summary executions—as well as his independent foreign policy, in which the Philippine government starts to warm up with its non-traditional allies, such as russia and China. Pointing out that drug issues brings “lawlessness,” Barcelon said Duterte’s so-called war against illegal drugs is “good” in a sense that it helps in dealing with the country’s peace and order. “Basically that war on drugs is dealing with peace and order. We all know that this drugs issue brings a lot of these lawlessness so in a way, that is good. Even though there are a lot of background noises, the important thing is people feel safer now,” Barcelon explained. On the other hand, Barcelon said Duterte’s foreign policy “puts emphasis on elevating the local economy to new heights.” He also took note Duterte’s foreign visits that brought in sig-
nificant number of investment pledges in our country, which he said are beneficial for the growth of the country’s economy. “In terms of his leadership, across the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) countries everybody looks up to him now. Although he had said something in the past which was not that good for the international scene, apparently the ASEAN countries still look up to him,” Barcelon further said. Likewise, American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines senior advisor John Forbes commended the positive results brought by Duterte’s drug war and foreign policy. “There has been change and continuity, change in foreign policy and drug enforcement and continuity in most of the reforms of predecessor administrations,” Forbes said. He also lauded the Philippine government’s comprehensive tax reform and ambitious Build Build Build infrastructure program. Forbes, however, noted that the heavy traffics in the National Capital region, including the growing congestion at the
Ninoy Aquino International Airport, are among the concerns that must be addressed. For his part, European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines president Guenter Taus said the Duterte administration has done a “commendable job” in its first year. “We acknowledge the notable achievements of the current administration thus far. With this, it is fair to say that they have done a commendable job. With increased public and private sector cooperation, we believe even more can be achieved during President Duterte’s term,” Taus said. While admitting that there were indeed “shortcomings” on the part of the government, Taus maintained that the business sector remains bullish. “We remain positive, and see the weaknesses as things that the private sector can work on with the government. We can spend a lifetime speaking on any government’s shortcomings but we prefer to focus on what has been done successfully and what we can do to support actionable initiatives,”
A6 JULY 5-7, 2017 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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OPINION
FEATURES
Champion in our hearts DESPITE his impressive display of explosive punches and dynamic movements, Manny Pacquiao still bowed down before a formidable opponent during the “Battle of Brisbane” on Sunday, July 2. In his latest conquest, Pacquiao surrendered his World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title to Jeff Horn in front of more than 51,052 people at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Australia. After 12 grueling rounds, Horn won via a unanimous decision against Pacquiao with scores of 117111, 115-113 and 115-113. The Australian fighter now holds a perfect record of 17 wins with 11 KOs. While many contest the judges’ decision, Pacquiao graciously accepted his defeat. “That’s the decision of the judges, I respect that,” Pacquiao said as he thanked his fans and countrymen. There have been rumors that Sunday’s fight was a litmus test for Pacquiao’s possible retirement. The Filipino champion hasn’t knocked out an opponent since 2009. After dropping his fourth loss in his last nine outings, Pacquiao is now at 56-7-2 with 38 KOs. This early, Pacquiao is looking into another showdown—to regain his WBO welterweight title— against Horn in November. “Rematch, that’s fine. Absolutely, I’d love that,” Pacquiao declared.
Editorial
Athletes do more than just to represent the flag where they come from. Their presence in any sporting event gives their countrymen hope, self-respect, and to many—pride in
who they are. In his entire career, Pacquiao gave his kababayanss something to watch and be passionate about. The whole world stood witness to Pacquiao’s rise to the top: from being the struggling 14-year-old boy who left his home in Mindanao to being the best fighter of his generation. His commitment to the sport and dedication to winning have catapulted him to be one of the most famous personalities in sports. His career so far, embodies the stuff legends are made of. And why not. After all, his achievements supersedes Pacquiao himself—winning eight championships in different weight divisions by beating boxing champions from around the world. All his hard work has manifested into millions of earnings, a successful showbiz career and a legislative post. His fame has catapulted him to become one of the most revered Filipino icons of all time. audience worldwide an impressive showing. That is Pacquiao, whose career has been put into ques- the kind of champion that he is. When his back is tion after a series of losses, still managed to give his against the wall and everyone is raising questions,
ManilaTimes.net photo
he leaves a lasting performance that puts the record straight. Pacquiao’s reign as the king of the ring is far from over. (AJPress)
Poll: A vast majority of Americans say political civility has declined since Trump was elected president HAPPY FOURTH of July! The Fil-Am As we celebrate Independence Day in Perspective America this week, a new NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist Poll study reveals that a majority of Americans — 70 per- GEL SANTOS-RELOS cent — say the level of civility in Washington has declined since Donald Trump was elected president. Perhaps you felt the same exasperating toxicity in the political discourse not only in Washington, but among citizens engaging in debates on various social media platform from both parties. As far as I recall, this started even during the primary elections, with Donald
Trump normalizing the use of personal attacks, insults, and lies to grab the attention of voters amid the noise of the campaigns. Now that Trump has been elected president — he is not disappointing his ardent fans. The candidate Donald Trump never changed, and has in fact intensified the toxic rhetoric as president, using the bully pulpit of the most powerful position in the world. Aside from name-calling and demonizing his political opponents, Trump has declared war against the news media — particularly those who are critical of him and his policies, and his loyal fan base be-
lieves him when he brands even responsible media networks as “fake news.” This is Trump’s way of controlling the message, attitude and behavior of his base who seem to have been living in an alternate universe, with so much different view of reality compared to what most Americans experience to be true. Last weekend, Trump’s obsession was the use of Twitter to single out the hosts of Morning Joe, two of his most outspoken critics on the liberal cable news channel MSNBC. He not only labeled the news program as “fake news”, but also spewed personal attacks against the looks of Mika Brzezinski, as he did with other strong females he has insulted publicly. Joe Scarborough and Brzezinski re-
sponded in an Op-Ed, alleging that Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, asked them to apologize to Trump for their reporting so the president will call his friend, the owner of the tabloid National Enquirer, to spike the juicy story about their relationship. The Morning Joe couple did not apologize and continued criticizing Trump, and yes, the National Enquirer published their “story.” In a statement, MSNBC said, “It’s a sad day for America when the president spends his time bullying, lying and spewing petty personal attacks instead of doing his job.” Then on Sunday, July 2, Trump posted a short video on Twitter of an old video of him wrestling and punching a man, but this new video had the logo of CNN re-
placing the man’s head. Does Trump fantasize about violence against news media people/organization critical of him? This sent a chilling effect on people in the media, with some concerned that such a suggestion from Trump may put the lives of news media people in danger. Is this Trump’s way of silencing dissent? Surely, political civility has declined in America since Trump became president. Many people are following his example. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook. com/Gel.Santos.Relos
With IS losing in Iraq and Syria, Duterte can now win in the South Opinion
FRANCISCO TATAD I HAVE been getting a lot of mixed mail for saying in my last column that after a year of President Rodrigo Duterte, the nation is gravely ill. Many are genuinely thankful, but a couple of coarse characters have tried to bully me with a vulgar word that has no place in the conversation of adults. I have not heard from the President himself, but in his last speech before the said column he fantasized about my testes, in a far more vulgar way than Donald Trump recently tweeted about TV co-host Mika Brzezinski of MSNBC’s show “Morning Joe”, supposedly “bleeding from a facelift” on New Year’s Eve. I am old enough to take all this. Some of my friends are genuinely worried though. There is no need to be. At 77, I have lived twice longer than our Lord, but I think I know the President enough. He does a lot of political posturing, using his foul language for maximum effect, but at bottom he knows what a journalist’s job is. He also knows my personal and official record, which is an open book. I had been a public servant with an unblemished record, but right now I am a presidential watcher whose job it is to watch the President. I try to find out where he is, and how he is, even when, or especially when, he chooses to drop out of public sight. I take pride in being good at what I do. This can be tough on the President, and he is not supposed to like it. But he knows I have no ulterior motives. He is no longer a private person, and even his smallest toothache is no longer a pri-
vate matter between himself and his dentist. Right now, he’s got more than a toothache. His prolonged absences have triggered a lot of speculations about this. And some of my columns have made me part of this narrative. DU30 and his critics I have been suggesting that the best way to assure the public that he is in top shape is for a competent and officially recognized medical authority to issue a medical bulletin everytime he takes an extended “rest.” The Protestant pastor cum presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella who has been caught more than once telling half-truths about the President is simply not good enough. Take it from someone who handled the job for 10 long years during one of the most difficult periods in the nation’s history. Everyone wants to see the President in good health, including his worst political adversaries. I put this question to Sen. Antonio Trillanes 4th in my interview with him on GNN Cable TV yesterday, and this was his clear message. But DU30 himself must put the issue beyond suspicion, speculation, or debate. The public must be spared the task of having to choose between what I write and what Abella says. DU30 needs to recover from his first missteps. He needs to perform better than he has these last 12 months by recognizing that this is a constitutional government and that he must take a little more seriously his constitutional and legal duties as President. His propagandists and trolls should help by reminding him that talking dirty is not always cute, and that he cannot make grandiose promises at the drop of a hat, and just forget all those promises afterward. As a candidate he promised, among others things, to fix the MRT and the horrendous Manila traffic; end the infamous contrac-
tualization of workers which has allowed the big malls and other employers to lay off workers after every five months and deny them all legal benefits due to permanent employees; end the illegal traffic of drugs, government corruption and red tape, etc.—all within months, if not days. Most striking of all, he promised to fight for Philippine sovereignty and territorial integrity by sailing by his lonesome, if necessary, to the nearest disputed island on the West Philippine Sea and planting the Philippine flag there, should the Permanent Court of Arbitration at the Hague rule in favor of the Philippines in its arbitration case against China in the disputed territory. On July 12, 2016, the court ruled in favor of the Philippines. This was welcomed by Philippine allies, but China refused to recognize either the process or the ruling. Not only did DU30 fail to fulfill this promise by refusing to invoke the ruling; he also declared his intention to “separate economically and militarily” from the United States and to align himself with China and Russia “against the world,” while visiting Beijing in October, 2016. The latest news report—citing satellite images coming out of the Center for Strategic and International Studies’ (CSIS) Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI) in Washington, D.C.—says China has built missile shelters and radar and communications facilities on Fiery Cross, Mischief and Subi Reefs in the disputed Spratly Islands. This alleged militarization of the Spratlys is clearly contrary to our interests, but it has been received with total equanimity by the DU30 government. Unfulfilled promises The only campaign promise DU30 has fulfilled was his promise “to kill criminals”, by killing drug suspects, now numbering
over 8,000, without due process or documentation. Despite the killings, the illegal drug traffic continues, its supply line, stretching from China and Latin America to the Philippines, is undisturbed, and no big-time financier, manufacturer, producer or distributor identified, arrested or killed. Meanwhile, Bureau of Customs sources are buzzing with unconfirmed reports that an alleged P5 billion drug shipment from China recently went through the “green lane” (“no questions asked”) and reportedly ended in Mindanao. This, if true, could help explain why DU30 now says the illegal drug traffic has become the principal funder of the Mautes, whom the military has not been able to eject completely from Marawi City after 40 days. The drug killings have provoked an international storm on human rights, which includes an aborted impeachment complaint against the President at the House of Representatives, and a “communication” on “crimes against humanity” against the former mayor of Davao City (since 1988) by Mindanao lawyer Jude Sabio before the International Criminal Court at The Hague. The host of the BBC talk show HARDtalk has publicly poohpoohed the ICC complaint as something that’s going nowhere, but sources close to Sabio and the Magdalo party list, which supports the “communication,” are confident the ICC process could start moving by September. ICC Chief Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda from Africa seems to inspire confidence in the process, but this remains to be seen. The tide turns against IS DU30 biggest challenge now is his fight against the Mautes, who claim to be influenced by the Islamic State. The Maute assault on Marawi appears to be on its last legs, but the more significant
development is coming from Iraq and Syria, the home ground of IS, from which foreign jihadists are being exported to its “Eastern Province” in southern Philippines. Last Thursday, the Iraqi army finally regained full control of the landmark al-Nouri Mosque, with its 12th century al-Hadba minaret, west of the Tigris River, in Mosul, in northern Iraq. This was a big blow to the IS, a turning point in the war against the militants, which the Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has been leading since October 2016. It was in this mosque on July 4, 2014, where the IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi declared the establishment of a self-styled Islamic Caliphate, extending its dominion to all parts of the world. Al-Baghdadi was earlier reported to have been killed in a Russian air strike in Raqqa, the city on the northeast bank of the Euphrates River, 160 kilometers east of Aleppo, the capital city of the Aleppo governorate, the most populous of all Syrian governorates. Al-Baghdadi’s “death” was first reported by Russia, then by Iran, but remains unconfirmed by IS. No new IS leader has been named in his place. With the capture of the mosque, the Iraqi prime minister announced the end of the Caliphate. “We are seeing the end of the fake Daesh state,” he said. After the fall of IS-controlled territory in Iraq, IS control of Syrian territory now hangs by a thread, according to London-based analytical reports. As the Syrian army of President Bashar al-Assad advanced, IS fighters have withdrawn from the last territory they controlled. It is not clear where they have reestablished their main headquarters, if they have. Effects on the Philippines What does this mean for our Muslim communities in the Philippines? Will it mean more
IS-trained jihadists coming to southern Philippines rather than to Syria or Iraq? This is where the battle for Marawi, now on its 40th day, could prove not only critical but decisive. The defeat of the Mautes, which is not only necessary but clearly achievable, according to an article in The Manila Times last week by former Marawi city mayor Omar Solitario Ali, should be the major first step in unifying the various Moro tribal communities into one strong Islamic community that rejects extremism and the Caliphate. Filipino Muslims should be able to project Islam, once again, as a religion of peace. This would require a comprehensive forward-looking policy and program that would allow the various ethnic and cultural groups in Mindanao to work closely together in peace in rebuilding their faith community, while the physical rebuilding of what now lies in ruins continues. There are powerful tools available for this, which DU30 can easily harness, if he wants to lead in this great enterprise. Not the least of these are the various faith communities, within the country and abroad, which are but waiting to be tapped. He could begin by talking to the Bishops-Ulama Conference, made up of Catholic and Protestant bishops and the ulama, the highly respected Islamic religious leaders. All DU30 has to do is ask. Given his anti-religious rhetoric and the way he has publicly positioned himself against the Church and religion these last 12 months, this would require a change of heart and character, or in his style of leadership at the very least. But this is precisely what he needs at this time, and this is what the nation has been waiting for since 38 percent of the voters chose to bring him from Davao to Malacañang on his promise of change. (ManilaTimes.net)
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BUSINESSJ& COMMUNITY OURNAL
B1
Economy still on ‘solid ground’ by BEN
O. DE VERA Inquirer.net
ACCORDING to the Washington-based Institute of International Finance (IIF), the Philippines will benefit from its solid macrofundamentals even as investors have gone on a wait-andsee mode in light of President Duterte’s controversial rhetoric. In a June 22 research note titled “Still on Solid Ground,” economist Kevin Sanker and chief economist for Asia-Pacific Bejoy Das Gupta of the IIF noted that “aggressive presidential tactics have ruffled feathers, but [the President] retains popular support.” “The government’s ambitious agenda is aimed at raising incomes and reducing poverty by the end of President Duterte’s term in mid-2022. He has also aggressively sought to reach out especially
to China to obtain project financing and forge a more independent foreign policy. However, his harsh rhetoric, including toward allies, has ruffled some feathers and could dampen foreign investment while being a distraction to effective domestic policymaking,” the IIF said. While it expects the Philippines’ gross domestic product to grow by 6.5 percent this year and 6.6 percent next year, the IIF cautioned that risks remain. It noted uncertainty in U.S. policies, challenges in relations with China, escalating conflict against Islamic insurgents in Mindanao and a possible slowdown in remittances. It said economies were interconnected via asset managers, central banks, commercial and investment banks, development banks, hedge funds, insurance
u PAGE B4
WB downgrades 2017 Philippines growth forecast to 6.8% by CZERIZA
VALENCIA Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines - The World Bank downgraded its economic growth forecast for the Philippines this year to 6.8 percent, but retained its growth projection of 6.9 percent for 2018. The revised 2017 projection considers recent economic trends and compares with the 6.9 percent growth forecast in April, the multilateral lending institution said. “Reflecting slower public spending in the first quarter, government consumption and investment growth somewhat weakened on an annual basis. However, export and growth of
US trade office allows duty-free entry of Filipino-made travel goods by RAADEE
S. SAUSA ManilaTimes.net
THE Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has approved the country’s application for inclusion in the expanded new general system of preferences (GSP) scheme, a top Philippine trade official said on Friday, June 30. The new GSP program added 23 tariff lines, allowing travel goods such as apparel, bags, wallets and backpacks, luggage, and sport and travel bags made in the Philippines to enter the U.S. market duty-free. With the new GSP scheme, the duty-free
treatment could increase Philippine travel goods exports to the U.S. by $100 million annually for the first five years, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez had spearheaded the Philippine advocacy of GSP inclusion and had consistently taken this up with counterparts from the USTR. “This expansion will boost the local manufacturing industry and eventually provide more employment opportunities for Filipinos, creating 70,000 new jobs and increasing our GDP” or gross domestic product by 0.5 percent, Lopez told reporters in a Viber message.
According to the U.S. International Trade Center (ITC), the US imported an estimated total of $232 million from the 23 tariff lines of travel goods from the Philippines in 2016, making the country the fifth largest import source of travel goods in the U.S. Meanwhile, all U.S. GSP Beneficiary Developing Countries, effective today (July 1) will enjoy duty-free treatment for a number of their travel goods exports to the U.S. In 2015, former U.S. President Barack Obama signed the reauthorized U.S. GSP as a tool that helps eligible countries to expand their exports to the U.S.
u PAGE B2
Finance chief Dominguez to Moody’s: ‘PH economy not overheating’ private consumption remained strong,” the World Bank Philippines said. World Bank lead economist for the Philippines Birgit Hansl said greater investment in infrastructure is critical to the country’s growth prospects in the medium term.
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“There is ample evidence that the economy is far from overheating,” Finance Secretary CarTHE Philippine economy is far los Dominguez III said over the from overheating, the Depart- weekend. Despite affirming the Philipment of Finance (DoF) said, refuting Moody Investors Service’s pines’ ‘Baa2’ investment grade warning that rising inflation and rating, Moody’s said last week a current account deficit are sig- a number of metrics indicated material capacity constraints that naling such risk. by MAYVELIN
U. CARABALLO ManilaTimes.net
signaled risk of an overheating economy. The credit ratings agency said the prolonged period of robust growth has led to emerging capacity constraints, as represented by rising inflation and the re-emergence of a current account deficit. An economy starts to over-
u PAGE B2
Carlos Dominguez III
Business news
B JULY 5-7, 2017 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
Soon to rise: the biggest outlet destination in Luzon
Artist’s perspective of The Outlets at Lipa located in Batangas. by inquirer.net
IN the time of the internet, social media, and digital advertising, Filipinos are better exposed to information on the latest fashion trends and the biggest brands worldwide. Despite the existence of variety in the market, discounts may be limited for premium brand items thus the option to refer to seasonal sales. To address this evident need, AboitizLand is set to create The Outlets—a shopping destination that introduces premium brands at reduced price points all year round.AboitizLand, one of the country’s biggest property developers, offers a complete outlet shopping experience through The Outlets at Lipa, its first commercial venture in Luzon. Authentic outlet
The Outlets at Lipa will offer a variety of retail outlet stores that meet the needs of discerning shoppers seeking premium items at a discount and customers awaiting seasonal or occasionled sales for a good purchase. “The Outlets at Lipa is definitely an authentic outlet shopping destination. We offer a 365-day shopping experience, providing easy access to premium brands at discount prices every day of the year. We are looking at around 200 brands, at a location that offers a mix between shopping and dining-there’s retail, there’s food-and some basic utilities to be housed in the area,� explained John Amon, vice president and head of innovation at AboitizLand. Great retail deals The Outlets at Lipa offers an authentic retail-lifestyle ex-
Inquirer.net file photo
perience to the Luzon market. “At The Outlets at Lipa, we serve not just the immediate market in the area. We aim to satisfy customers with more than just a great retail deal by including a good mix of food options and exciting outdoor activities,� Amon explained. “We also have a multi-sports field and beautiful outdoor spaces for families to enjoy. When people actually drive to the place, they can spend an entire day shopping, eating, with the kids playing football, watching live concertsit’s really designed as a destination worth visiting,� he added. A 90-minute drive from Manila, the 9.3-hectare property is found within the Lima Technology Center in Lipa-Malvar Batangas. The Outlets at Lipa is set to open during the summer of 2018. n
Finance chief Dominguez...
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heat when a prolonged period of growth has spurred faster inflation from increased consumer spending, while supply allocations have become inefficient as manufacturers overproduce, creating excess production capacities in an attempt to capitalize on high levels of wealth. That is a description given by Investopedia. Backing up his claim to the contrary, Dominguez pointed to the first-quarter slowdown in gross domestic product (GDP) growth to 6.4 percent, against a government target range of 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent range and from an actual 6.6 percent in the fourth quarter of 2016 and 6.9
percent in the comparative yearearlier period. “Inflation is declining – 3.1 percent in May, from 3.4 percent in April – and core inflation is declining, from 3 percent in April to 2.9 percent in May,� Dominguez said. Investment growth, meanwhile, continued to be robust at 7.9 percent in the first quarter, faster than the 5.8 percent rate of growth in household consumption. Dominguez also cited the country’s balance of payments as remaining strong, with a deficit equivalent to only 1.4 percent of GDP, while the current account deficit is only 0.45 percent of GDP in the first quarter, lower
than the average 4 percent during the 1997 Asian crisis. The country’s fiscal deficit was running at 2.3 percent of GDP as of May 2017, which was below the 3 percent target of the government. The debt ratio is also on the decline, down at 43.6 percent of GDP in March 2017, compared with the end-2016 level of 45.9 percent, he added. “So I don’t think there is really much danger of overheating,� he said. Going forward, Dominguez said the government continues to take action to sustain the growth momentum and enhance investor confidence in the economy.n
Aug 26 (Sat ) Day 1, Angeles, California/Krakow, Poland Our pilgrimage begins with a transatlantic journey from Los Angeles International $LUSRUW WR .UDNRZ 3RODQG 0HDOV VHUYHG LQ À LJKW Aug 27 (Sun) Day 2, Krakow :H ZLOO DUULYH LQ .UDNRZ LQ WKH HYHQLQJ 7KHUH ZH ZLOO PHHW RXU 7RXU 'LUHFWRU DQG GULYHU IRU D WUDQVIHU WR RXU KRWHO 'LQQHU DW WKH KRWHO %% '
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Globe-trotting Jollibee sets aggressive expansion with P14.7-B outlay by Doris
Dumlao-abaDilla Inquirer.net
FAST food giant Jollibee Foods Corp. (JFC) aims to breach the 4,000-store milestone this year as the globalizing homegrown retailer earmarked a recordhigh capital spending budget of P14.7 billion to fund its most aggressive expansion to date. “We will continue to aggressively pursue acquisitions and organic growth to accelerate the company’s growth and profitability,� JFC founder and chair Tony Tan Caktiong said during the recent JFC stockholders meeting. As of end-May, JFC had 3,555 stores worldwide across 12 brands in 17 countries. Last year, it ended with 3,253 stores, excluding the stores of its overseas affiliates where it does not exercise majority control. In a press briefing, JFC chief finance officer Ysmael Baysa said this year’s capital spending would be the biggest in the company’s history. Last year’s actual capital
outlays amounted to P6.7 billion. Of this year’s budget, P9 billion will be for store expansion and renovation while P5 billion will be for new commissaries in the Philippines and China in order to support the growing store network. Tan Caktiong said JFC was able to open a large number of new stores through the years because of improving return on investments and increasing organization capability that allowed it to scale up business across different brands. In 2016 alone, JFC opened 342 new stores, 244 of which are in the Philippines and 98 are overseas. This 6.7-percent store network expansion was faster than the historical organic network growth of about 4 percent. This year, JFC plans to open a total of 350 new stores, 100 of which will be overseas. The network of stores under Superfoods Group, the Vietnambased holding firm for Pho24 and Highlands Coffee brands which JFC is grooming for public list-
ing, was also consolidated into the group in May. Now under JFC’s control, SuperFoods plans to open 485 new stores in the next three years. Tan Caktiong said this expansion would be partly funded by proceeds from an initial public offering, targeted for July 2019. Including the store network of American hamburger chain Smashburger and Taiwan’s 12 Hotpot, JFC’s store count would be 3,948, already within striking distance of the 4,000-store goal. If the sales of affiliate overseas stores were to be consolidated into JFC, Baysa estimated that offshore business would also account for 30 percent of total sales. n
ment as a much needed push for expanding employment opportunities and improving countryside development. This will also help contribute to President Rodrigo Duterte administration’s thrust of pursuing inclusive and sustainable growth thru job generation and entrepreneurship.� The U.S. GSP seeks to promote economic growth and development in developing countries through preferential and dutyfree entry to the U.S. market of
products from 122 designated beneficiary countries and territories, including the Philippines. In 2016, the U.S. was the Philippines third major trading partner, the second biggest export market, and third top import supplier. A number of U.S. companies are currently manufacturing travel goods in the Philippines, including Coach, Tory Burch, and Michael Kors. n
US trade office allows duty-free...
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“The inclusion of travel goods into the GSP will certainly provide benefits to our exporters, particularly micro, small and medium enterprises [MSMEs] and export-oriented agri-businesses utilizing banana and other vegetable fibers and community based industries in the various regions of the country,� DTI Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo said. Lopez added that he “looks forward to this positive develop-
WB downgrades 2017 Philippines...
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“In the medium term, supporting higher investment levels will be critical to sustain the economy’s growth momentum,� Hansl said. “The government’s ability to realize its infrastructure spending agenda will determine if the Philippines can achieve the growth target of 6.5 to 7.5 percent for 2017,� she said. The World Bank expects consumption to grow at a slower but stable rate of 5.6 percent in 2017 and 6.1 percent in 2018 compared with 7.2 percent in 2016 which was an election year.
“The prospect of maintaining consumption growth at current levels over the medium term is supported by robust remittance flows. Remittances increased by eight percent in the first quarter of 2017, compared to three percent in the first quarter of 2016,� said the multilateral lending institution. Sustained economic growth in the country is expected to create more jobs and raise incomes across all income groups, the bank said, noting that between 2012 and 2015, household income among the bottom 40 percent of income
distribution in the country rose by an average of 7.6 percent annually. Demand for Philippine exports is also expected to pick up as global economic trade and activity improve gradually. “Robust growth among the country’s main trading partners is expected to boost demand for Philippine exports,� the bank said. The country’s economy expanded 6.4 percent in the first quarter – lower than the market forecast of between 6.8 to seven percent – largely due to the absence of election-related spending and slower government spending.n
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Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA WE now live in an age of extreme self-absorption. Many already believe they have become legends in their own minds. They believe the world revolves around them and that their personal happiness is paramount. Following the lead of celebrities in the sports and entertainment world, we are being led by the media to believe that life is all about I, Me and Myself at center stage. The songs and stories in popular media all amplify and sell the story of selflove as the highest form of love. We have all the electronic tools for self-absorption at hand: camera phones, computers, tablets, Facebook, Twitter and other forms of social media and the unceasing, unrelenting advertising messages that prick our vanity. We have become the stars in our own firmament. It’s not a new phenomenon though. Advanced, wealthy civilizations in history have fallen for the same trap. Maybe it’s time to dredge out those stories from mythology, told and retold from the distant past so we can better understand how to deal with this disconcerting trend and see how too much self-absorption eventually lead to despondency and unhappiness. The antidote to self-absorption, like for many ills that plague our world today, is still the same as it was in the past — love and concern for others, interest in the well-being of someone or
Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes MANY people try to file and open their own divorce case without an attorney in an effort to save on legal fees. Often, the self-represented divorce litigant would seek the assistance of the court facilitator’s office in preparing the papers to open their own divorce case. However once the divorce case is opened, many self-represented petitioners are not able to finish their divorce case to judgment for various reasons. The most common reasons are the following: Improper Proof of Service of Divorce Petition Self-represented litigants are not familiar with the code of civil procedures on how initial pleadings should be served on the opposing party and the notice requirements. As such the Court is unable to exercise jurisdiction on the other party until proper service on that party is done properly. Failed to prepare and exchanged required financial disclosures California family code requires that both parties exchange complete and accurate financial disclosures. Proof that these financial disclosures have been exchanged needs to be filed in Court. The court will not enter judgment on a divorce case unless the financial disclosure requirements are satisfied. Default Judgment does not conform with the Petition for dissolution
What’s New Arlene Al-os, CPA, MBA YOU have not filed your income tax returns for the current year and previous years because: 1) you decided you are not required to file? 2) You are a victim of identity theft and therefore excuse? 3) You know you will owe taxes and you will have to pay when you file, decided not to file; 4) You were out of the country and you forgot to file? 5) any other excuses. If you are unsure if you are required to file, go to the IRS website and read on Publication 17 or ask your tax professional. If you owe taxes on your tax return and cannot pay in full, you can establish payment agreement with the IRS if you are required to file and owe a balance. Here are the reasons why you should file. What happens if you do not file by the due date and you are required to file? • Unless there is reasonable cause, you are subject to failure to file penalty. • Interest is assessed from the original filing date on taxes not paid by due date. • File your income tax returns before the extension ends. IRS
LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • JULY 5-7, 2017
An old tale on self-absorption Calendar of Events across “Vanity of vanities; ALL is vanity.” - From Ecclesiastes
being involved in something bigger, higher, loftier than one’s self. The idea of sacrifice still remains the most concrete, visible form of love for another. In the end, happiness finally comes with the humble awareness and quiet appreciation of what was, what is and what is yet to come — right now, right here where we live our days and nights. Long ago when enchanted creatures peopled the earth, there was a nymph called Echo. She probably rated a nine and a half on a 10 point-attractiveness scale, gorgeous, knowledgeable and perfect in every way except for one thing — she was a chatterbox nonpareil. She liked to hear herself talk far too much and perhaps, with a tinge of hubris, would insist on having the last word in every conversation. Juno, the queen of the Gods, was so irked by Echo’s habit that she meted out a punishment just for her. Echo will no longer be able to talk, except for one tiny concession — she will be able to say only the last word. In the same forest where the nymphs lived, there was a young man named Narcissus who was so classically handsome and perfectly proportioned that all the nymphs oohed and ahhed and fell in love with him at first sight. Picture Michelangelo’s marble sculpture of “David” in flesh and blood or a composite between diCaprio and Brad Pitt. If he were real person today, he would have made the cover of People Maga-
zine’s “Sexiest Man of the Year.” His fans became legion that all that adulation got into his head. He became extremely vain. No nymph was good enough for him. One day, Echo espied Narcissus while he was hunting with his peers and fell like a ton of bricks in love with him. She longed to tell him of her feelings, but in her afflicted state, she became painfully shy and simply contented herself silently watching him from a distance, shadowing Narcissus’ every move. Narcissus, however, became aware of her shadowy presence and talked her out of her hiding place. Echo could only repeat the last words of what Narcissus was saying in their conversation so she may have came out sounding like a mindless idiot, vexing Narcissus. Besotted with love for the hunk however and believing Narcissus’ plea that she come out so they can be joined together, she finally overcame her crippling shyness and revealed herself. However, Narcissus felt she wasn’t good enough for him and scorned her for her bold presumptuousness and repudiated her total being. He sent her away devastating Echo in the most cutting words, slashing and burning her very existence, swearing he would rather die than be with Echo. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com
I filed my own divorce but I can’t finish it
If the respondent has been defaulted and the petitioner is moving for a default divorce judgment, the default judgment must conform to the divorce petition. If the two does not conform to each other, the court will often reject the judgment. Child Support requested is not guideline Child support in California is based on guideline. Sometimes the self-represented litigant will try to ignore child support or seek a child support order that is not based on guideline. This will result on the judgment being rejected by the Court. Pension and Retirement plans were not joined Some pension and retirement plans (such as local government retirement plans) need to be joined in the divorce action if there is a community property interest in these plans. Self-represented litigants are not aware of these rules and often ignore this requirement. QDRO was not prepared to divide Pension and Retirement plans Certain pension and retirement plans that are covered by ERISA requires a qualified domestic relations order to be divided (QDRO). Self-represented litigants often ignore this requirement. As a result, the plan is not divided. Unequal division of community property in default divorce cases If there is no settlement agreement, then the court has to divide the community property and
debt equally between the parties. Often, self-represented parties will try to propose or prove up an unequal division of community property and debt usually in their favor. Trying to save on legal fees by handling your own divorce case could turn into a nightmare if your case has issues that needs to be handles a certain way. It is like trying to fix your own plumbing problem if you have no plumbing experience, it could end up costing you more. If you opened up your divorce case but cannot seem to finish it due to some issues, it is best to seek the help of a highly qualified family law attorney.
*** 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)
You have not filed your income tax returns for years? will file a return for you and accrues taxes based on their records. You will receive a bill based on their calculation. • If you are due a refund, there is no penalty for failure to file BUT you could lose your refund. • There is a statute of limitation in claiming for refund even you did not file your income tax returns. • Refund Statute: You have to file your income tax returns within 3 years from the due date to claim the refund either issuance of check or application of overpayment to subsequent year/s tax liabilities. • If you have not filed your income tax returns for Tax Years 2012 and prior, and you are due with a refund, you will have to say bye-bye to those tax years’ refunds since it is already beyond the refund statute. • Filing after Refund Statute: You lose the refund and can no longer receive a check nor apply the overpayment to your future tax liabilities. • There is no statute of limitation if you fail to file your income tax returns. This only means that
the IRS can still audit and collect taxes for all years you did not file your income tax returns. It will be a nightmare! • Consider filing Form 1127 Application for Extension of Time for Payment of Tax Due to Undue Hardship. Meaning it will be inconvenience and you will suffer financial loss if you pay in full. Supporting documentation. You will be required to attach: 1) statement of your assets and liabilities, and 2) an itemized list of your income and expenses for each of the 3- months prior to the due date of the tax. If you are not sure ask your tax professional. *** Disclaimer: Any accounting, business or tax advice contained in this communication is neither intended as a thorough, indepth analysis of specific issues, nor a substitute for a formal opinion, nor is it sufficient to avoid tax-related penalties. *** Al-os & Associates Accountancy Corporation provides accounting and tax services to individuals, corporations, LLCs and business entities. The Firm has a niche in defending taxpayers audited by the IRS and other governmental agencies. (Advertising Supplement)
B
America
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 J U LY 7
Ryan Cayabyab and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers in concert in Las Vegas Maestro Ryan Cayabyab and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers (RCS) will hold a concert at the Flamingo Theatre of the Clark County Library at 7 p.m., with touring guest Annie Nepomuceno and special guest tenor Edward Granadosin. Front acts are Michael Perez and Esmeralda Padilla. Please call Dr. Mike Santa Juana at (516) 669-5834, Art Jerus (702) 738-8029 or Randolph Umali (702) 985-5724 for inquiries.
J U LY 8
United Batanguenos of Southern California Induction in Los Angeles The United Batanguenos of Southern California will hold its induction of officers on Saturday, July 8 at Casa Italiana in Los Angeles. Millie Moncada will be inducted as new governor. Music will be provided by The Midnight Motion Band. For other related questions please call Millie at (818) 322-9429; Cely Anuran (805) 630-3377 or Willie Manacsa at (818) 400-7391. Casa Italiana is located at 1051 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
J U LY 1 1 -1 6
11th Ambassadors’ Tour to Manila & Davao The 11th Ambassadors’ Tour will take place in the Philippines from July 11 to 16. Led by the Department of Foreign Affairs, in cooperation with the Department of Tourism’s Tourism Promotions Board and Rajah Tours, the itinerary for the 11th Ambassadors’ Tour combines the best of Metropolitan Manila up North and the sprawling city of Davao in the South into one adventure-packed and enriching vacation experience. The four-day stay in Davao, the King City of the South and current seat of power in the Philippines, is a special highlight of this year’s event. Participants in this year’s tour will be presented with an opportunity to experience Davao up-close. It is a chance for the participants to revel in Davao’s picturesque landscapes through its nature parks, agricultural farms, and resorts, experience the diversity of its people through a series of courtesy calls with Philippine government officials, and feel the harmony of its culture through its heritage and cultural museums. Tailor-fit to tell the narrative of a new, safer, more beautiful Philippines, the tour will provide its participants with enough experience to engage their respective communities and leverage goodwill towards Filipinos and generate interest in the Philippines. Delegates who will be part of the program become “Filipino ambassadors” in their own right, carrying a fresh perspective and the message of a new and improved Philippines when they go back to the United States. As “Filipino Ambassadors,” this year’s delegates will be well-capable of showcasing the strides made in tourism, economic development, and public safety in the Philippines to the larger international community. For more information and to register, please visit http://www. acgtdt.com.
J U LY 1 5
Money Smart for Small Business in El Monte, CA Come to an introductory two-day business course designed for newer business owners, self-employed individuals, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Course topics include: startup planning, organizational types, risk management, credit reporting, business insurance, time & financial management, selling & succession planning, banking services for small businesses, recordkeeping, and tax & business planning. The curriculum is developed jointly by the FDIC and the SBA. It will be held on Saturday, July 15 and July 22 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cathay Bank (9650 Flair Dr., El Monte, CA 91731). The fee is $20 payable to Asian Pacific Islander Small Business Program (API SBP). Breakfast, lunch and course materials will be provided by Cathay Bank. There will be limited seating so advance registration is required. To register, please contact Colleen Seto at (213) 373-1605 or cseto@ltsc.org. Participants will be eligible for free business counseling by API SBP.
J U LY 2 0
LEAP’s 35th anniversary celebration in Los Angeles Leadership Education for Asian Pacifics, Inc. (LEAP) is proud to celebrate 35 years of ”Growing Leaders” on Thursday, July 20 and the leadership of individuals that exemplify LEAP’s mission to achieve full participation and equality for Asian and Pacific Islanders through leadership, empowerment, and policy. Proceeds from the event will be used to develop LEAP’s innovative leadership programs, cutting-edge public policy research, and nationwide community building. This year’s 35th Anniversary Celebration will be like no other gala that LEAP has had in the past. LEAP’s 35th Anniversary Celebration will be an eventful evening that will be both interactive and experiential. With an abundance of food and friends, LEAP will celebrate those who have shaped the organization, those who have been impacted by the organization, and those who continue to grow as Asian and Pacific Islander leaders and dream big. Honores for the individual leadership award include Fatima Bustos-Choy, Phd, founder of Gaia Flow Consulting and CEO And owner of Body & Brain Holistic Wellness Center; Kenneth Kasamatsu, advisor to the CEO, E-Central Credit Union / The Pacific Bridge Companies, and founder of Pacific Commerce Bank ; Geri Mannion, program director, U.S. Democracy and Special Opportunities Fund at Carnegie Corporation of New York; and Paul Ong, director of the Center for Neighborhood Knowledge at UCLA. The David R. Barclay Alumni Leadership Award will be presented to Scott Chan, program director for the Asian Pacific Islander Forward Movement and Patricia A. Neilson, director of Asian American Student Success at University of Massachusetts Boston. The VIP & general reception will begin at 5 p.m., while the program is from 7 to 10 p.m. It will be held at the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center (244 South San Pedro Street Los Angeles, CA 90012). Attire is business. To RSVP, visit www.leap.org/celebration_tickets. For more information about registration, contact Mayta Lor at (213) 485-1422 x 4105 or mlor@leap.org.
J U LY 2 1 -23
Filipino Caucus Family Retreat in Lake Hughes, CA The Filipino Caucus of the California Pacific Annual Conference (CALPAC) of the United Methodist Church (UMC) is inviting its members to a family retreat to be held from July 21 to 23. The venue will be the scenic Oak Camps and Conference Center (18651 Pine Canyon Road, Lake Hughes, California). The Rev. Dr. Bener Agtarap, Associate General Secretary of the UMC Board of Discipleship Ministry will be the resource person and guest speaker during the three- day gathering to be marked with group discussions and fellowship. “Rekindling the Flame” will be the theme of this retreat. According to Rev. Nelson Castorillo, the Filipino Caucus president, the goal of the retreat is re-igniting and rekindling the symbolic flame representing the spirit and unity of this growing group of Filipino-American Methodists and hoping this type of gathering will reenergize and revitalize the Church. The Rosewood UMC, headed by Ding Lapus, is coordinating the event. He is assisted by Noribel Taguba, Vicky Ignacio, Dennis Mañacop, Auring Garcia, John Umaguing, Revs. Manny Predas and Lisa Santiago. Food and lodging for three days is $148 and $103 for children 7-12 years old. Check is payable to the Filipino Caucus, PO Box 10435, Glendale, CA 91209. For more information please call Rev. Nelson (909) 538-7606 or email at nelsonpreacher@gmail.com.
J U LY 29
The Filipino-Americans of Contra Costa County, Inc. hosts annual picnic in Hercules, CA The Filipino-Americans of Contra Costa County, Inc. (FACCC, Inc.) invites you to its annual potluck picnic on Saturday, July 29 at Foxboro Park in Hercules, CA. It will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bring your favorite dish to share. FACCC, Inc. will provide barbecued beef, chicken, hot dogs and water. For any inquiries, call Chairperson Roy de Leon at (510) 5655465 or Vice Chair Joe Medrano at (510) 417-0585.
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B JULY 5-7, 2017 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
How much debt is too much?
Debt Relief
Atty. LAwrence yAng
HOW do you answer this question? Let’s check what the Bible has to say about debt. The Bible says that one should neither be a lender or borrower. It does not seem to recommend the assumption of debt. Otherwise, it should say, it’s OK to be a borrower, but not a lender or viceversa. This statement is clear. It does not sound like fake news. It’s straightforward. It doesn’t sound like a mysterious early morning tweet from the president. On the contrary, the Bible is specific. Don’t be a lender or a borrower. Why not a lender? Because you might end up losing your money. Why not a borrower? Because debt service will end up destroying your life. The debt will literally enslave you with minimum payments to keep them current that will cost you a fortune in the long run. You will eventually lose a fortune that should be in your bank account. You will need this fortune for your retirement but if you have too much debt, instead of having this fortune available for your use to augment your social security when you retire, you will have nothing but debt that keeps on asking for more money from you every month. For those of you who don’t have debt, read on, so you won’t decide to plunge into a sea of debt. So how much debt is too much? I posed this question here exactly 20 years ago. If you were 45 then, you would now be ready to retire at 65. Were they 20 long years? No, in fact, they were 20 very short years. Your 5-year-old son is now 25, done with college and working. Your toddler then is now an adult. Your 3-year-old daughter then is now 23, also an adult. She is now a registered nurse. Your son is now a mechanical engineer working for an international construction firm based in Hong Kong. Your parents who were then 69 are now 89. They have good genes but they have all kinds of aches and pains and both need caregivers to help them along. So what happened? Twenty years just passed by so fast like a speeding train that you didn’t notice. Let’s just say that 20 years ago, you and your spouse had a net combined income of $4K. I already said you were 45 years old then. You had a house mortgage to pay, maybe a second
trust deed, one of those home improvement loans, had one or two car payments. Your son and daughter were still in grade school. You examined your debt level then when you read my article 20 years ago. You were in fact at a major crossroad in your life. You had about $30K of credit cards, which needed 25 percent of your net household income, or close to $1K to make minimum payments on your credit cards. It felt like a wage garnishment and your heart was being ripped out through your wallet, right? What was left was $3K, which you allocated for the house, the cars, food, electricity, insurances and other living expenses. After all these expenses, probably, your household had nothing left. If you had nothing left, where would you have gotten $1K a month to make minimum payments? By borrowing more. So, in one year you would have had to borrow $12K. So in one year, you owe, not $30K, but $42K, and instead of needing only $1K for debt service, you needed $1300, and so on and so forth. During year three, at 48, you would have owed $66K, instead of $30K, needing almost $2K minimum payments, instead of $1K. You would have dug a hole so deep for yourself that you couldn’t get out of it. You might as well have MC and Visa tattooed on your forehead because they own you and you work for them. Let’s say that you did get a promotion that gave you an additional $1K of net income. Should that have gone to debt service of credit cards of $30K? Think about it. $1K of debt service means $12K a year of money that should go to your savings and investments for your future — should it not? If you actually paid $12K a year to service $30K of credit cards, after using all of your additional income to keep your credit card masters happy, you would have paid them $60K in five years, and worst of all, you still owe them the same $30K! Shouldn’t you use the $60K to save and invest for your family’s future instead? Aren’t you sacrificing your family’s financial future and opportunities in favor of servicing your credit cards that are taking 25 percent of your monthly net income? Although you may not admit what you are doing, you are actually killing the ability of your family to save for the future by keeping these
cards current over the years. If you read my article then and chose not to wipe out the $30K of credit cards 20 years ago, how much money would you have paid your credit card masters? A lot. You would have paid them $240K in 20 years. You would have paid them a quarter of a million dollars. And how much would you still owe them today? The same $30K. You are making them rich, while keeping yourself poor. That’s the simple truth. If you took my advice 20 years ago and wiped the $30K out with a Chapter 7 petition then, how much would you have now that you are 65? You probably would have $500K if you invested the savings of $1K a month for 20 years wisely. Not with Bernie Madoff of course. If you bought Apple shares 20 years ago, you would now be extremely wealthy. Because $10K invested in Apple only 10 years ago would be worth how much today? That $10K, which was 10 months of minimum monthly payments for you then, would be worth $677,000 today! If you invested three years of minimum payments on credit cards ten years ago, you would have a cool $2.0-M today! What a small change in your life direction would have meant in benefits for you and your family! Our God is so great, indeed! Because he blesses those who rely on Him with abundance! You want to be a millionaire when you retire? Get rid of your credit cards now and invest your savings in equities. Twenty years from now, when you check your million dollar portfolio, you will be so glad that you read my article today and made the wise decision of your life. And how would your credit score be 20 years from now if you wiped out your cards now? It would be perfect at 830. If you need debt relief, set an appointment to see me. I will analyze your case personally. “THE LORD HAS DONE GREAT THINGS FOR US, AND WE ARE FILLED WITH JOY.” —PSALM 126:3.
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California consumers gain nation’s strongest protection from surprise medical bills Bonta-authored law took effect on July 11
CONSUMERS in California are now protected from surprise medical bills under a new law that took effect on Saturday, July 1. The lead author, Assemblymember Rob Bonta (DOakland), said AB 72 makes California home to the nation’s strongest consumer protections. A recent study by Yale University found 22 percent of visits to emergency rooms resulted in surprise medical bills. A separate survey by Consumer Reports found 30 percent of patients had reported receiving a surprise medical bill. “This was clearly a huge problem that has now been solved for families across California. This law marks a milestone for California consumers. When patients do everything correctly by staying within their health networks when they seek medical care, they shouldn’t get hit with a surprise bill that is often in the hundreds or thousands of dollars. No one should be forced into financial ruin or bankruptcy because of an unfair and complex billing system,” Bonta explained. Prior to AB 72, when a patient underwent a medical procedure and did everything right to keep costs down by going to an innetwork facility, he or she could still unwittingly receive care
from an out-of-network physician, who subsequently could bill them directly for costs the insurance company wouldn’t cover. “This law shows how Californians win when insurance companies and doctors work together and put patients first. We’ve created the strongest consumer protection law in the nation and solved a problem that this legislature had struggled with for years,” said Bonta. AB 72 requires the health plan and health insurer to reimburse non-contracting individual healthcare providers at an amount that is the greater of the average contracted rate or 125% of the Medicare reimburses rate. The bill was co-sponsored by the California Labor Federation and Health Access California. “Even with all the uncertainty about health care coming out of Washington, Sacramento is providing some more security for patients, who should now no longer get surprise out-of-network bills when they go to an in-network hospital or other facility. California has now become the state with the strongest protections in the nation against surprise bills, benefiting millions of consumers,” said Anthony Wright, executive director, Health Access California, and co-sponsor of last
year’s AB 72 with the California Labor Federation. “This landmark law to protect patients from financial calamity is the result of many Californians telling their story of being saddled with surprise medical bills of thousands of dollars. We must continue this progress while not allowing California’s key consumer protections to be undermined at the federal level. We thank Assemblymember Bonta, Governor Brown, and all the legislators who stood up for Californians to enact this law.” AB 72 was joint-authored by Assemblymembers from throughout the state, including Assemblymembers Brian Dahle, Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher, Brian Maienschein, Miguel Santiago, Jim Wood and former Assemblymember Susan Bonilla. The bill is the result of a deep stakeholder engagement process and is sponsored by Health Access California and the California Labor Federation. Governor Jerry Brown signed AB 72 on September 23, 2016. Assemblymember Rob Bonta represents the 18th Assembly District, which includes Oakland, Alameda, and San Leandro and is the Assistant Majority Leader and Chair of the Asian Pacific Islander (API) Legislative Caucus. n
Philippines a net gainer from peso depreciation by Doris
Dumlao-abaDilla Inquirer.net
MANILA, Philippines - The economy stands to gain more from a depreciating peso, the De*** Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in partment of Finance (DOF) said. In an interview, Finance Secbankruptcy, business, real estate and civil litigation and has successfully represented retary Carlos Dominguez said more than five thousand clients in California. the Philippines is a net gainer Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) from peso depreciation as the 284-1142 for an appointment at 1000 S. rise in revenue outpaces the Fremont Ave, Mailstop 58, Building A-1 Suite increase in disbursements for 1125, Alhambra, CA 91803 or at 20274 Carrey every peso shed by the local currency against the dollar. Road, Walnut, CA 91789 “It’s a net gain anyway. Some (Advertising Supplement) people are not gonna like it but I think the majority are going to benefit,” Dominguez told reporters. According to a sensitivity analysis prepared by DOF chief economist Gil Beltran for 2018, the government could earn P9.5 billion for every P1 depreciation in foreign exchange. This is higher than the P2.1 billion in-
crease in costs a P1 depreciation could cause the government. This means the government generates a surplus of P7.4 billion for every peso depreciation against the dollar. According to Dominguez and Beltran, revenue streams that benefit from a weakening peso includes import taxes collected by the Bureau of Customs, remittances from overseas Filipino workers and the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector. “For the economy, is it really bad to have a currency that is slightly undervalued? Just think how much more pesos are coming from both BPO and the OFWs. That is more than $50 billion a year from both of them. The peso closed at 50.53 to $1 last Thursday, June 29, the lowest since the currency closed at 50.54 last Sept. 11, 2006. It slightly recovered on Friday,
June 30, to settle at 50.47 to $1, but opened at an intraday low of 50.60 to $1 in the morning. “A lot of these movement in currency is really dictated abroad. It’s not so much what we are doing or what we’re not doing,” Dominguez said. “The U.S. is the one changing their interest rates, they just raised it one more time recently. Looks like they want to do another one within the year,” he said. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo said the demand for dollars from banks’ corporate clients have gone up as it was the end of the quarter and semester. “This time is the quarter and semester end so banks are positioning themselves accordingly,” Guinigundo said in a text message. n
Economy still on ‘solid...
ğ įōíľ ÀðıÃæµįPçį ʼn æIJįıÀ ØÃĉÃæîÂ ß ğÃqPç qíß߼æÃıŎįĤÀíĽØ ÕæíŊįPdíĽIJĕ If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, email us the details (title, description, time & date, location, etc.) at info@asianjournalinc.com. And for consideration in our print calendar, please send submissions at least three weeks before the date of the event. To be included in our online calendar/ e-newsletter, please allow at least two to three weeks' notice. The Asian Journal would be delighted to list your event in our Calendar of Events.
INTERCONNECTED. An artist’s concept of a railway between the Metro and New Clark City in Pampanga.
PAGE B1 t companies as well as sovereign wealth funds. While the government worked to expand its revenue base, its pivot to its Asian neighbors has benefits. Asian giants China and Japan, for instance, are seen to provide a portion of the financial assistance that would go to infrastructure projects. “During President Duterte’s visits abroad, China and Japan each pledged about $9 billion in official development assistance (ODA) loans, with additional investment commitments from China worth $15 billion. The government expects the ODA financing to offer advantageous longer maturity and lower rates,” the IIF noted. Economic managers had said the Duterte administration during its first six months in office already secured about P1 trillion in ODA from Japan and China. “The economic commitments reflect Mr. Duterte’s drive to strengthen partnerships in the region as he seeks a more independent foreign policy and to lessen the Philippines’ reliance on its relationship with America,” it said. “He has pursued friendlier relations with China, opting for bilateral talks on territorial disputes in the South China Sea, despite last year’s ruling in favor of the Philippines by an international tribunal and opening the possibility of joint military exercises. Multiple agreements with Rus-
sia, including increased cooperation on defense and trade, were signed following his visit there in May, although his trip was truncated due to the terrorist fighting in Mindanao,” the IIF added. However, the IIF said that Duterte has also drawn negative attention for his controversial pronouncements. “Striking a defiant tone, he has criticized those questioning the human rights implications of his war on crime and drugs, which has prompted impeachment complaints and lawsuits, including at the International Criminal Court. He has made intemperate comments directed at the U.S., a key long-term ally, although he has now reached out to the Trump administration, which has not been as critical of his policies as the Obama administration. Meanwhile, he has refused EU development aid funding due to its criticism of the drug war policy,” the IIF noted. The government had earlier refused a grant from the European Union for allegedly being tied to a condition that human rights have to be protected. As for the ongoing conflict in Marawi, the IIF said “it is not clear whether this approach to combating fundamentalist Islamic terrorism will succeed.” As a whole, the IIF claimed that President Duterte’s rhetoric may have slowed the entry of foreign direct investment (FDI) and
Inquirer photo
dampened investor interest in the country. “Although FDI has held up since President Duterte’s election, inflows from the US have dwindled and portfolio flows have weakened. The controversial and aggressive approach has the potential to become an impediment to foreign investment as well as effective domestic policymaking,” according to the IIF. Moving forward, “foreign investors will be monitoring the government’s ability to deliver on spending, investment and reform plans,” the IIF said. “Fixing the underspending and implementation issues that have been problem areas in the past will be important to avoid market disappointment. Moreover, if the final version of the tax reform law underdelivers on revenues, the government may be forced to scale back spending or accept a slightly greater deficit target,” the IIF said. “While growth should not be materially hampered by the fighting and martial law in Mindanao, it could be a distraction for policymakers. The push for friendlier economic and diplomatic relations with China could also pose complications for domestic politics, especially if there was a backlash brought on by seeming to be soft on China’s claims in the South China Sea,” it said. n
B JULY 5-7, 2017 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
by Mayvelin
U. Caraballo ManilaTimes.net
Espenilla steps in as new BSP chief
NEW Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. vowed on Monday, July 3, that the central bank will continue to fulfill its core mandates to ensure that both the Philippine economy and the financial system remain strong, stable and resilient to facilitate transformational opportunities for all. Espenilla made the statement in his inaugural speech at the 24th Anniversary Program of the central bank at the BSP Complex in Manila. Espenilla also took his oath as the new Bangko Sentral chief before Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, who represented President Rodrigo Duterte. “The BSP will continue to finetune our execution of monetary policy to make it even more market-oriented,” he said, noting for example the deployment of the interest rate corridor system in June last year. Espenilla said the BSP will work closely with other government agencies and private sector stakeholders to accelerate capital
EMPLOYMENT
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market reforms, including the development of the necessary financial market infrastructures that provide orderly trading, clearing and settlement of the full range of financial transactions. “Leveraging on the much-improved and continuously improving governance and risk management practices of banks and other supervised financial institutions, we intend to further open up competitive opportunities to lower the cost of doing business, provide more customer choices, promote efficiency, and encourage innovation,” he said. Espenilla added that the central bank will advocate for the timely enactment of vital legislations such as the amendment of the BSP Charter, the passage of the Payment System Act, the Islamic Banking Act, and the easing of the deposit secrecy law. “We also join the initiative to further strengthening the AntiMoney Laundering Act to win the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing, and thus secure the integrity of our financial system,” he stressed. Under his leadership, Espenilla said the Bangko Sentral will
do its part and remain focused in pursuing comprehensive reforms to enable the economy to position well in the rapidly integrating Association of Southeast Asian regional economic system. He cited the need to bring central banking operations closer to the people by strengthening commitment to advancing financial inclusion, financial education, and consumer protection agenda to ensure that no one is left behind. “Our policy agenda is therefore geared towards a truly inclusive, strong and dynamic financial system that is fully responsive to the needs of the domestic economy in line with the government’s medium-term development plan and the AmBisyon Natin 2040,” he said. Potential vulnerabilities Espenilla said that while sound macroeconomic fundamentals and gains from the reforms will continue to support the country’s growth prospects, there is a need for monetary authorities to be mindful of potential sources of vulnerabilities. He said the monetary authority has to be prepared as well for the
EMPLOYMENT
seemingly imminent wind-down of ultra-easy monetary policies in advanced economies. “We need to be mindful of such events and their potentially far-reaching consequences since these could undermine our economic performance and disrupt our carefully-laid plans,” he added. Moreover, rapid technological innovations in the delivery of financial products and services are changing business models, Espenilla noted, pointing out that digital innovation is rapidly re-shaping financial services to serve a new breed of financial consumers who are young, upwardly mobile, technology-savvy, and have exacting demands for the convenient delivery of financial products and services. Espenilla stressed that the role of social media, particularly as an information channel, has accelerated, highlighting the speed at which information, both good and bad, and even fake news, can spread at an unprecedented speed. “We cannot also be blind to the dark spectre of cyber-crime that can quickly undermine trust in
our financial system. There is no substitute for eternal vigilance, timely action, and public education. We are all in this together and have a shared responsibility,” he said. “As policymakers and financial supervisors, we have to be in tune with these emerging market trends and evolving client needs, including the ‘millennial’ upside of our young population,” he added. The new frontier presents central banking with challenges that have not been there before. “The changing landscape calls for us to be more vigilant, proactive and dynamic in responding to the needs of our diverse stakeholders,” he said. Espenilla noted that being the new “team captain” of the BSP have been an immense honor and privilege. “Believe me when I say that this is a role that I do not take for granted. However, I need your prayers and support, too. They say that it can be lonely at the top. From that vantage point, national issues and high-level problems may overshadow the needs and concerns of the BSP commu-
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FOR RENT
SERVICES
BSP TURNOVER. Outgoing BSP Governor Amando Tetangco (L) raises the hand of incoming BSP Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. during turnover rites held at the Bangko Sentral Office on July 3 Photo by Roger Ranada/Manilatimes.net
nity,” he said. “Even when the going gets tough, my fervent wish is that I never lose sight of where I came from … I therefore owe it to all of you to stay connected and to continue serving the BSP community even as we all serve our country with skill, honor, integrity, and accountability,” he added. n
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LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • JULY 5-7, 2017
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Aladdin photos by Deen van Meer Other photos from the Instagram accounts of Adam (@adamjacobsnyc) and Arielle (@ariellejacobs).
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cover story The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - July 5, 2017
SIBLING REVELRY: How Adam and Arielle Jacobs achieved their Broadway dreams by MoMar
G. Visaya/AJPress
In 2015, the stars aligned for Adam and Arielle Jacobs — he was playing the lead role in “Aladdin” and she was cast as nessarose on “Wicked” — and for the first time, both siblings were on big Broadway hits at the same time. Arielle made her Broadway debut as nina Rosario in “In The Heights” in 2010, opposite Lin-Manuel Miranda while Adam made his debut four years earlier as Marius in the 2006 revival of “Les Miserables.” The siblings’ journey to Broadway began when they both got their first taste of professional theatre and performed in one musical called “Honor Song for Crazy Horse” at the Mountain View Center for Performing Arts in California, where they were cast as native Americans – Adam, then 14, was Little Hawk and Arielle was Blue Swan. It was Arielle who got into performing first, taking violin and dance lessons and studying ballet, tap and jazz, and eventually moving to singing. She influenced Adam and told him to try singing lessons because they were enjoyable. “Adam started piano when
he was four, I wanted to be a pop singer like Mariah Carey or Whitney Houston and so I started taking lessons and fell in love with it. I said to Adam — you should take lessons, too. It’s fun. So he did,” Arielle shared. The Jacobs family lived in Half Moon Bay, California until both kids were old enough to spread their wings. Both went to college in nYU, Adam finishing with a BFA in Theater at Tisch School of the Arts while Arielle graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance and concentration on musical theater. After graduating from nYU, Adam worked the regional theaters, performed on cruise ships, and toured the country as Cinderella’s Prince before landing his first Equity (Actor’s Union) production as nankipoo in Marriott Theater’s Hot Mikado. His star shone brighter when he was given the opportunity to play Marius in the national tour of “Les Miserables.” This job led to him being cast in the Broadway revival and his subsequent Broadway debut. Since “Les Miserables,” his journey brought him to the
Adam Jacobs as Aladdin
Photo by Deen van Meer
islands of “Mamma Mia!” and to the African pridelands of “The Lion King” where he was cast as Simba. He’s also gone from the tropics of “Once On This Island” to the Arabian city of Agrabah in “Aladdin.” Adam met his future wife Kelly while doing a Christmas show in Hershey, PA. She was a rag-doll/ballerina and he was a well-padded, white-bearded Santa Claus (with black eyebrows). Sparks flew, and led to them getting married, their union blessed with the arrival of their twin sons Jack and Alex in 2014. After college, Arielle on the other hand moved to Los Angeles and lived there for eight years, returning to new York in 2013 and eventually booking “Wicked,” which she did for a year. Last year, she was cast as Jasmine in the Australian production of “Aladdin.“ Asked if performing is in their genes, Arielle replied, “My mom’s parents have beautiful voices but they don’t sing professionally. My mom sings and plays piano; my dad’s mother was a cabaret singer in the 40s. She sang with the Tommy Dorsey Band when she was 15. She never had it as a career, really.” Both siblings were on major Broadway top-earners. Did they ever think it would happen? “no, never. I dreamed of it for myself, he might have. But it never really occurred to me that we would be on Broadway at the same time. I don’t know why, I just didn’t,” she said. Arielle then lavished her brother with praise. “I saw him in his high school performances in San Francisco and he was leagues beyond everyone else onstage and it was obvious that he had the potential and the talent to be on Broadway and I knew at the back of my brain that I was going to be on Broadway. But I
Arielle Jacobs as Nessarose on ‘Wicked’
never put it together,” she said laughing. Upside and downside In a previous interview with the Asian Journal, Adam mentioned about not going after shows that have already cast Arielle as the female romantic lead. Arielle chipped in with her thoughts. “That happened to us! He did Zorro in Atlanta and I would have loved to play the Catherine Zeta Zones part, but he was already cast as Zorro. The casting director called my agent and said they would love to see me and my agent told the casting director, ‘You know that Adam and Arielle are brother and sister, right?’ and they said, ‘Ohhhh, yeah. That won’t work.’ So they just cancelled my audition,” she recalled. She also had an audition for Jasmine for “Aladdin,” and this was before they made the cast announcement because Arielle thought that at that time, they weren’t sure if he got the part. Outside the musical realm, Adam and Arielle worked together last year on a cabaret concert at 54 Below, calling the show Sibling Disobedience. They did a powerful combination of pop and musical theater, both their interests. “I was the one who wanted to perform. You know how it is. I would put on shows in my living room, Adam wouldn’t do it. When we went to family gatherings, my mom would always want us to sing songs for the family and I would love it. I would sing a lot, and my brother would begrudgingly sing one. He hated it. I was the one who craved for the audience,” Arielle said. Adam and Arielle’s mom Abby (short for Avelene) was 14 when her entire family moved to the United States, eventually spreading out across the country. She and her husband now live in new Jersey.
Anthony Diaz V on making films that people will remember By Larizza de AJPress
Vera
In today’s era of superhero movies, Filipino-American director Anthony Diaz refuses to follow the trend and offers a compelling movie centered on religion. Despite his failure to clinch an award at last year’s Sundance Film Festival with his movie “Break,” Diaz sets aside his usual role as director to play the lead character for his upcoming movie, “Way Of The Cross.” “Way Of The Cross” is a psychological thriller set in a small
religious town in the Philippines. It follows the life of Rogelio ‘Rogue’ Marquez (TBoy), a Las Vegas-based Fil-Am FBI agent, who stumbled upon a string of murderous events in the town of San Antonio during the Holy Week festivities. The movie, which will hit local and international theaters in August, was directed by Diaz’s father Antonio Diaz and Gorio Vicuna, former animator at Marvel Studios and director of “When nature Calls.” “This was actually the first film in which I was directed by others, however I did assist in the directing of this film when needed,” the multifaceted Diaz told the Asian Journal. Aside from bringing life to the main character, Diaz also co-wrote the screenplay and co-produced the film. “This gave me a unique chance to develop interesting characters that I feel will resonate with the audience,” Diaz stated. Ultimately after the audience watch the film, Diaz wants them to leave puzzled as they ask and debate,
Photos from the Instagram accounts of Adam (@adamjacobsnyc) and Arielle (@ariellejacobs).
Asked about the roles she wanted to do, Arielle rattled off her list. “I had dream roles. I wanted to be Maria in West Side Story, Kim in “Miss Saigon,” although maybe I am getting too old for both. I was obsessed with Sunset Boulevard, I used to listen to the soundtrack over and over. Maybe one day, when I’m 60,” she said. “I have my eye on Hamilton. I’d love to be in that. Or Aladdin. When my brother leaves,” she said back then, breaking into laughter. That was months before it was announced that Adam would be leaving the Broadway production to lead Aladdin’s national tour. Being bi-racial has been a little tricky for Arielle. “It’s a double-edged sword. It has definitely cost me some roles. If I didn’t have dark hair and dark skin, I would have been offered the part. Recently, there was a part I didn’t get because they wanted someone with red hair and blue eyes. I can play Hispanic or Middle Eastern or native American or Latina, it’s theater,” she said. Off-Broadway, she has starred in two world-premiere
plays by Pulitzer-winning playwright and director nilo Cruz; entitled Sotto Voce (as Lucila Pulpo, a Colombian) and Farhad or the Secret of Being (as Farhad, a young Afghan girl who was raised as a boy to avoid social exile but then reaches puberty and struggles with the limitations of becoming a woman in the Middle East.) Earlier in her career, she was also seen in the original national Touring companies of In The Heights (as nina) and Disney’s High School Musical (Gabriella), and in Dreamcatcher Theatre’s production of Into The Woods (as the Baker’s Wife), opposite Broadway legend Tituss Burgess as the Witch. These days, Adam is on the road leading the national touring production of Aladdin while Arielle is working on her debut album called “A Leap in the Dark”. The Jacobs siblings credit their Filipino mother and Jewish father not just for their mixed ethnicity, which has allowed both of them to play such varied roles so far, but more importantly for their whole-hearted encouragement to pursue a life in the arts.
Liza Soberano: No stunt double for Darna by deni
rose Bernardo Philstar.com
IF Liza Soberano would have her way, she does not want to have a stunt double in her upcoming portrayal of Mars Ravelo’s “Darna.” “As much as possible, no, because I want to do all my stunts. Mas madali rin para sa director ‘pag ganun,” she said. She, however, would get one if the stunts become too dangerous. “If it becomes too life-threatening, of course, I would have someone do that for me kasi I don’t want to risk my life,” she stressed. She has tried the harness and said, “masakit po talaga s’ya.” “Probably po, ‘yung magiging difficult sa’kin Despite its central theme focused on religion, Diaz claimed that “Way Of The Cross” is unique in many ‘yung timing when it ways because its story crossed all borders and is not bound by a certain culture or country. Photos from the film’s official Facebook page comes to stunts. Kasi ‘yun talaga, you really order to make the characters “What would they do if they have to look strong but relatable to a wider scope of were in those situations themnot too strong because audience. selves?” you don’t want to hurt the “We wanted the charac“Our goal was to make a person doing the scene. ters to be relatable to many timely film that will be rememWe have to make it look different personality types with bered,” Diaz said. believable. Because I’m not all the character flaws that we The screenplay had been rewritten a couple of times in Continued on Page 3 Continued on Page 3
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‘Star speaker’ Boy Abunda pays it forward by Melda
arciga Philstar.com
THERE is no question that Boy Abunda is already a household name in the Philippines, having spent decades as a very successful celebrity endorser, publicist, talent manager and TV personality. Boy has literally been involved in all aspects of the showbiz industry. Not content with the peaks that he has scaled, this year, Boy made waves in the international scene when he spoke at the Asia Professional Speakers Convention in Singapore last month. His speech was titled The Fab Sermon in Singapore — Don’t Just Be A Speaker, Be A STAR, and it brought the house down. Boy was invited to speak at that event by Fredrik Haren, a leader of the Asia Professional Speakers Singapore. He is the only Filipino to receive such an invitation. When he accepted it, Boy did so knowing that it wouldn’t be a walk in the park. After all, he would be speaking in front of a crowd composed of the
Boy Abunda
best, brightest and highest-paid public speakers in Asia and the world. But in true Boy Abunda fashion, he didn’t let that stop him. Instead, he used it to fuel his rise to the occasion. “I knew speaking in front of all those people would be like dancing ballet before some of
the best ballerinas. Intimidating yung pagkakataon but I didn’t wallow in the idea of it being frightening,” he says. “While I was preparing my materials, I looked at the whole thing as an adventure. I was going beyond my space of influence. It was exciting because it was an exploration of what I didn’t think I could do. I never imagined I could be a professional public speaker.” Boy began his speech by talking about his favorite public speakers and what they had in common with some of showbiz’s biggest names. He wanted to prove that public speakers and stars have what he calls “the commonality of the star experience.” According to Boy, because the experience of being a public speaker is similar to that of being a star, public speakers can learn a thing or two from stars about what to do during speaking engagements. Furthermore, some speakers become stars in their own right because they’re Continued on Page 4
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actually going to hurt, but the stuntmen.” She already met with director Erik Matti to show how strong she is and what she is capable of. She continues to do cardio workouts to prepare for the role. “Nagpapalakas po ako para sa mga stunts!” declared the actress, who is also about to study dance steps to improve her grace, timing, and also for fitness. Likewise, if ABS-CBN would allow it, she also would like to be the one to shout the iconic comic book character’s name, and yes, even sing the theme song. “Feeling ko di nila ako kukunin. Pero kung ico-consider nila ako, why not?” She is yet to practice her shout. “’Di ko pa po s’ya pinapractice. Nahihiya po ako sa sarili ko na i-practice s’ya! Kasi ‘di ko pa po alam kung papano
‘yung tamang way talaga. But if they tell me na ako talaga ‘yung sisigaw ng Darna, then I’m willing.” She is willing to wear any costume approved by the management. “I’m actually okay with anything, as long as I’m prepared for it.” She is ready to wear even a sexy one because as she pointed out: “Yes, I am maturing and I think it’s about time!” When Enrique Gil heard about the news, she said Enrique did not become worried about the future of their love team, most especially, since he has also been cast as Liza’s love interest in the project. “When he found out, he was supportive naman. He said kaya ko ‘yan. Now, sinasamahan n’ya na rin ako sa pagwoworkout.” She has not watched all Darna movies and has been relying on Matti for guidance on her take on the character. Of the past Darnas, she has
The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - July 5, 2017
Aga Muhlach: ‘Lea Salonga is the one that got away’
A LETTER professing Aga Muhlach’s love for former costar and girlfriend Lea Salonga resurfaced and gained an overwhelming amount of appreciation on the Internet. Muhlach’s letter to Salonga, which was included in the “Playlist Souvenir Book: A Celebration of Lea Salonga’s 35 years” published in 2013 for her 35th showbiz anniversary concert, received massive attention after @loudestdork tweeted an excerpt of the letter. Before Muhlach’s marriage to Charlene Gonzales, the actor was last romantically linked with former Miss Universe Dayanara Torres. But years after, he revealed his love for Salonga writing that, “Lea is the one that got away. And she never knew.” The actor, who said he was once a young man on fire with passion, admitted his never ending love and gratitude to Salonga, his former co-star in only met Sharon Cuneta and “Sana Maulit Muli” as Agnes Angel Locsin and both have and “Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal” been supportive. as Sandy. “I think they all did well “To me, Lea was Sanand all of them have a different dy—ethereal, aloof, unattainperspective of portraying the able; my very heart’s desire. role,” Liza noted. Lea was Agnes — vulnerable She still has no idea on who yet remote, kind yet callous, will be with her in the movie constantly engaged in a battle besides Enrique. of wills. And I loved Agnes and As for Anne Curtis being ru- Sandy and Lea in equal meamored to play Darna’s nemesis, sure,” Muhlach said. Valentina: “I’d love to work with Ate Anne. I love Ate Anne! But of course, it all depends on her.” From Page 2 Whoever Valentina would be, Liza’s Darna will show her all share as human beings,” he what she’s got. added. “The first time that they Despite its central theme foannounced I’m going to be cused on religion, Diaz claimed Darna, I’m feeling very happy. that the movie is unique in many Of course, there are those who ways because the story crossed said I can’t do it or I don’t fit all borders and is not bound by in the role, but I respect that a certain culture or country. because I can’t control every“I hope the audience is body’s mind…But I still want to speechless on the drive home. prove to everybody that I am There are lots of twists and turns and I can be Darna. I can do it in the movie that gradually build and I’ll try my best!” to a crescendo that is quite
Liza Soberano: No stunt double...
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Aga Muhlach and Lea Salonga
The actor also regarded his role with Salonga in “Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal” in 1992 as “the right movie with the right girl at the right time” that saved his career which was at that time on the brink of failure. “Lea, bakit labis kitang mahal? It’s because you are, and have always been, so real. Walang kaplastikan, walang arte, walang drama. Pinakita mo sa akin ang totoong pagkatao mo. You are the real thing,” said Muhlach. He expressively described former Salonga’s voice as “transcendent, resplendent, indisputable, incomparable.” “Her voice is as clear as
Philstar.com photo
a bell, as breathtaking as the sunshine,” Muhlach added. Their love and respect for each other remained even though their onscreen love story did not happen in real life. “I love her still, but perhaps because she got away, I have her as a friend now, and so I will always have her,” Muhlach said. Both of them are now happy with their separate lives. Salonga is married to Robert Charles Chien and has a daughter, Nicole Beverly. Muhlach, on the other hand, has been married to Gonzales, and they have their twins — Atasha and Andres. (With reports from Larizza de Vera/AJPress)
Anthony Diaz V on making films that... memorable,” Diaz said. Although Diaz confirmed that the portrayal of religion will be controversial, he assured that the film did not intend to demote other people’s faiths. “The controversy of the film is in no way attacking the Catholic religion at all. It lies on how the characters react to strange situations that are occurring in their town that is very religious,” he added.
“Way Of The Cross” also stars Alvin Anson, Rafael Rosell, Daiana Menezes, Roxanne Barcelo, Giovanni Respall, Miguel Vasquez, Oz Rivera, Yussef Esteves, Danielle Chopin and Jordan Castillo. The audience can expect more from Diaz as he also has five scripts on queue for productions. His next film project is a one hour short film based on the story of a retired gangster in Japan.
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - July 5, 2017
Joint custody for Jake and Andi’s daughter by Ronnie
CaRRasCo ManilaTimes.net
iii
FINALLY, the case involving the joint custody over five-yearold Ellie had been resolved by her parents Andi Eigenmann and Jake Ejercito on June 22 (filed by the latter much to the former’s disapproval at the onset). While both showed up in court with their respective lawyers, it was Jake who arrived accompanied by his mother former actress, Laarni Enriquez. Andi’s mom Jaclyn Jose was conspicuously absent. Weeks prior to the face-off, Jaclyn had taken to social media her brickbats against Jake who (allegedly) couldn’t even afford to buy her granddaughter a bottle of mineral water, among other things. There was also a snide reference to Laarni, but both mother and son refused to answer back.
Jake Ejercito and Andi Eigenmann settled on a mututally favorable custody agreement over their daughter Ellie.
Instead it was Jake’s lawyer Ferdie Topacio who advised Jaclyn to refrain from issuing any further statements that might only jeopardize the case. How and why Jaclyn is unusually “prim and proper” on social media these days is—as far as we know—the result of a gag order imposed by the court upon all parties concerned. Vignettes likewise gathered
that no customary beso-beso between Laarni and Andi was a sight to behold in court. Everyone acted civilly, and the agreement between Ellie’s estranged parents turned out to be mutually favorable. Not yet fully capable of understanding what’s happening around her, Ellie must be the happiest child born to parents who just want the best for her.
‘Star speaker’ Boy Abunda pays it... From Page 3 so good at what they do. So what makes a star a star, and how can that be applied to public speaking? Boy says it starts with talent and great imagination. “For example, when Meryl Streep won her first Oscar for ‘Kramer vs. Kramer,’ she played a mother. Meryl said, ‘When I played that role, I wasn’t a mother. But I knew what kind of mother I was going to be.’ She imagined herself as a mother when she did that movie, and now she has an Oscar to show for it. Great imagination begins where talent ends. It extends the life of talent to eternity. But you can only travel into great imagination if you have genuine talent. You can’t fake talent.” Boy also talked about the importance of charisma, presence, having a network of influential connections and the X factor. He said that stars should have a great sense of occasion — an idea he borrowed from Bono, frontman of the Irish rock
band U2. “Bono once said, stars should know that their audience is temporary so they’ll work hard to keep them hanging on as long as possible. Also, a star shouldn’t linger — he or she should know when to enter and exit,” he says. “Stars should also know how to be invisible yet visible and invincible.” Boy wrapped up his speech in Singapore by telling his audience that stars also have to accept that nothing lasts forever, so they’ll make the most of all the opportunities they get. He says the main point of his speech was that speakers should go all out to make a lasting impact on their audiences. “By discussing the principles of being a star from my point of view as a talent manager, I was trying to tell the speakers that it’s not enough to just speak, nor is it enough to be informative, scientific or thorough in your speeches. You have to be a ‘star speaker’ — someone
who changes minds and lives and touches people. Someone memorable. Be memorable by speaking from your heart and using your words to tell as vivid a story as possible.” When Boy was done, the audience rewarded him with a prolonged standing ovation. Their reaction to his speech gave him a new purpose. It made him realize that he can be a professional public speaker — and now, Boy wants to pay it forward. In fact, he’s gearing up for more speaking engagements. “Magandang-maganda yung naging karanasan ko sa Singapore. Now, I want to make public speaking my profession. I want to take it seriously. Also, with some friends — who are among the best speakers in Asia, Fredrik Haren, Jerome Joseph, Tom Abbott — I’d like to align myself with the best global professional speakers. “I don’t know where this is going to bring me but it will certainly be a great adventure.”
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Travelers say EVA’s business amenities best, cabins cleanest SKYTRAX reveals World Airline Award winners at Paris Air Show
TAIPEI, TAIWAN – EVA Air is continuing its winning ways by taking the top spot in two categories of SKYTRAX’s annual World Airline Awards, Best Airline Cabin Cleanliness and Best Business Class Comfort Amenities. SKYTRAX also confirmed that EVA is upholding its commitment to quality service as one of only nine 5-Star Airlines worldwide and ranks among the World’s Top 10 Airlines of 2017. SKYTRAX revealed its World Airline Awards 2017 at the Paris Airshow on Tuesday, 20 June, 2017. The awards were determined through analyses of an extensive global passenger satisfaction survey that featured 320 airlines in the final results. Travelers can learn more about EVA’s exceptional services and book tickets at www.evaair. com. “No airline can overlook the importance of inflight cabin cleanliness and the impact this has on the customer travel experience. It is great testimony of EVA Air’s inflight cleanliness and cabin maintenance checks that this is second time in 3-years that the airline has been voted by passengers as the World’s Cleanest Airline,” said Edward Plaisted, SKYTRAX CEO. EVA also ranks second for World’s Best Airport Services and third for World’s Best Cabin Staff. SKYTRAX began rating EVA in 2008 and the airline has steadily updated, upgraded and improved service and products from check-in through the onboard experience and baggage claim. For example, EVA installed easyto-read electronic maps in airport and introduced turn-down service
for Royal Laurel Class passengers on long-haul flights aboard Boeing 777-300ERs. EVA takes care of details and, thanks to extraordinary staff efforts, offers unsurpassed onboard hospitality. The review and ranking organization awarded EVA 5-Star Airline ranking for the first time in 2016. “When we received the 5-Star Award last year, we made a commitment that EVA will not stop improving and innovating and will continue to uphold this honor. This year, SKYTRAX again awarded us 5-stars. This demonstrates the consistency of our top-notch service, “said EVA President Derek Chen. “I’m grateful to our EVA staff. Thank you for always doing your best to serve every customer. It is a great honor to receive support and recognition from passengers around the globe. EVA will never lose sight of our goal to be the very best. We hope every journey with EVA is one of pure relaxation and delight for every passenger.” EVA’s emphasis on comfort and quality service doesn’t stop at the top cabin door. Passengers in every seat get benefits of the airline’s trademark warm, friendly service. Clean cabins are part of that service. From take-off to landing, flight attendants keep shared spaces neat and tidy and lavatories restocked. Reflecting its recognition
The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - July 5, 2017
Marlo Mortel shares about mother’s fight against cancer
“BE Careful With My Heart” actor Marlo Mortel recently opened up about his mother’s courageous battle with cancer. He revealed that his mother, Merlie Pamintuan, was difor Best Business Class Comfort agnosed with stage 3 breast Amenities, EVA has especially cancer in 2014. She had underhigh standards for Royal Laurel gone an open heart surgery to Class on the Boeing 777-300ERs remove the huge cyst found it flies to and from North America inside her body. and on other long-haul routes. “We’re thankful that it was Royal Laurel Class passengers successfully removed but tests travel in luxurious comfort with revealed that her cancer is now award-winning wines, cozy at Stage 4,” Mortel said in his pajamas, lie-flat seats, Rimowa moving post on Instagram. amenity kits and more. He posted a photo of him SKYTRAX conducted its and his father at her mother’s survey in English, Spanish and bedside and captioned it with, Chinese among 19.87 million “you are definitely a fighter eligible respondents between mommy, and me & Daddy will August 2016 and May 2017. fight with you all the way.” The global ratings organization His mother is still recovering describes the survey as “indepen- from her recent surgery but still dent, impartial and global” and its needs to face another set of awards program is not-for-profit. treatments soon. EVA is frequently honored, In his previous interview awarded and recognized by with Inquirer.net, Mortel said he organizations worldwide. TripAd- would work hard to provide for visor, the world’s largest travel her medical needs. site, honored EVA Air with two distinctions, “Top 10 Major Airline in Asia Pacific” and “Best Airline – Taiwan.” SKYTRAX, Travel + Leisure and AirlineRatings.com have ranked it among the world’s Top-10 Best International Airlines multiple times. SKYTRAX also scored EVA as the Best Airline Transpacific and, based on traveler feedback, as the world’s third Most Loved Airline. AirlineRatings counted EVA Air’s Economy Class and Elite premium economy both among the top-10 best-of-thebest worldwide for 2017. EVA’s Elite Class, introduced in 1992 as one of the world’s very first premium economy cabins, was Best or Second-Best Premium Economy Class in SKYTRAX’s annual poll three years in a row. And Business Traveller Magazine awarded EVA two Gold Medals in its annual Cellars in the Sky competition, one for Best Business Class Cellar and the other for Best Business Class Sparkling Wine. (Advertising Supplement)
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Marlo Mortel
“I’ll keep working extra hard for us and we will get through this” read in his post. The 24-year-old actor recently starred in Regal Entertainment’s “Mano Po 7: Tsinoy” and is currently a co-host on the ABS-CBN morning show “Umagang Kay Ganda.”
He is hopeful for his mother’s recovery and has put faith in prayers as their family rally in this journey together. “Nothing is impossible with Jesus. I love you so much!” Mortel said. (With reports from Klarizza de Vera/ AJPress)
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - July 5, 2017