LA Midweek Edition -- March 16 - 18, 2016

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Volume 26 - No. 22 • 3 Sections - 22 Pages

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Conspiracy eyed in $81-M laundering case by Jefferson

AntipordA ManilaTimes.net

HOT SEAT Maia Santos-Deguito, manager of the RCBC Jupiter Branch in Makati City, gets a briefing from her lawyer. At left is RCBC President and CEO Lorenzo Tan.

BANK officials, personnel of remittance companies and hackers may have conspired to launder the $81 million stolen from the Bangladesh central bank, members of the senate blue ribbon committee said. senate President Pro-tempore ralph recto on tuesday, march 15, said it is possible that there was a “grand conspiracy” because it is clear that those involved planned the whole thing last year when the four accounts where the stolen money was de-

Photo by Czeasar Dancel

DATELINE

USA

from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

Program allows int’l STEM grads to stay longer in US INterNAtIoNAL students who earn their degrees in highly-sought stem (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields may be able to extend their stay in the United states longer. the revamped stem optional Practical training program, or stem oPt for short, adds an additional seven months to the previous length of stay required, while offering some safeguards to address labor concerns voiced by hundreds of American workers and stem students, reported the Us News & World report. According to Us Immigration and Customs enforcement (ICe) records, there are approximately 70,000 students currently in oPt--of those, about 23,000 are studying in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics fields. some of these students were selected as skilled foreign workers eligible to apply

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SENATE HEARING ON MONEY LAUNDERING. Senators in a huddle during the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on Tuesday, March 15, on the alleged $100 million that was laundered in the Philippines. Photo shows (from left to right) Senators Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito, Sergio Osmeña III (seated), Senate President Pro-Tempore Ralph Recto, Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, Alan Peter Cayetano, Teofisto “TG” Guingona III and Vicente “Tito” Sotto III. In his opening statement Guingona said that he “cannot agree to an executive session because subject funds belong to the Bangladesh government which did not invoke confidentiality.”

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Senate photo by Alex Nuevaespaña

Candidates’ ads bill hits Aquino: Foreign leaders respect PH good governance a whopping P6.7B – PCIJ by delon

Philstar.com

mANILA — It only took the administration of President Aquino for foreign leaders to respect the Philippines – which used to be the “sick man of Asia” – after the government laid out the principles of good governance, according to the interior secretary. speaking before governors during a meeting of the League of Provinces at the Century Park hotel in manila on tuesday, march 15, Aquino said he could relate to the anecdote shared by Interior secretary mel senen sarmiento President Aquino

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Philstar.com file photo

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UNA says AMLC report false, outdated by christine

AvendAño Inquirer.net

the UNIteD Nationalist Alliance (UNA) on tuesday, march 15, dismissed as “outdated” a report by the Anti-money Laundering Council (AmLC) published by the Inquirer that said Vice President Jejomar Binay received billions of pesos in kickbacks from infrastruc-

ture projects in makati City to fund his campaign in 2010. Navotas rep. toby tiangco, the UNA president, said the Inquirer front-page report tuesday was part of a “well-planned black propaganda” campaign to derail Binay’s campaign for the presidency in the elections. “We can deduce that the said document appears to be the basis”

for the AmLC’s petition for an asset protection order it filed in a manila regional trial Court (rtC) last November 2015 “or almost four months ago” against UNA’s standard-bearer, tiangco said. In a statement, tiangco said the AmLC report was “false” and that the council had since corrected itself on its initial allegations before

Filipinos in US laud the late Sen. Jovito Salonga Gonong elected FACLA president, vows to bring back group’s prestige

sAN frANCIsCo — Us-based filipinos extolled the late senate President Jovito salonga, who passed away at 95 on march 10 as a towering fighter for democracy, in the Philippines and while he was in exile in the United states. Lupita Aquino-Kashiwahara, sister of salonga’s contemporary senator Benigno ‘Ninoy’ Aquino Jr., fondly recalled that Ninoy called salonga “Prof,” a sign of respect and admiration for the latter’s intellect and role as one of Ninoy’s lead lawyers during his “kangaroo trial” before a military tribunal during martial Law. “I remember Jovy (salonga) as one of the leaders of the opposition forces who fought against the tyranny of dictatorship, both in the Philippines and during his exile in the Us he was a man of principle and vision, qualities that seem to be in short supply among those who are in the political arena. he will be missed,” shared Kashiwahara. Philippine Consul-General in san francisco henry Bensurto Jr. believe the whole coun-

foUr candidates for president, five for vice president and two dozen other candidates for senator and local posts have shelled out P6.7 billion since their political ads started being shown in march 2015, or 14 months ahead of the may 9, 2016 elections, according to the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ.) the group said with such a high tab, the may 9 elections will be the most expensive electoral exercise in Philippine history. “Who paid for the ads? the candidates have variably said that their unnamed donors, and/or portions of their own money, covered the expense. But why ever must donors part with their millions when only the candidates stand to gain from political ads? And how, some citizens have asked, should the candidates pay back these donors who gave them not just money but also a quick ride to instant celebrity and fame on tV?” the PCIJ noted, citing a

porcAllA

NEW FACLA OFFICERS. Atty. Mariano Alvarez swears into office three of the new FACLA officers on Monday. From left: Alvarez, Fernandico Q. Gonong Jr., president; Dr. Veronico Agatep, 1st vice president and finance director; and Rosalinda Nery, treasurer.

Los ANGeLes — Businessman-designer fernandico Q. Gonong Jr. was elected last monday, march 7, the new president of the filipino American Community of Los Angeles (fACLA) after a deadlock left the oldest filipino organization in the United states without a leader for almost three months. Gonong replaces former president Austin G. Baul, whose term expired on Dec. 31, 2015 under the organization’s constitution and by-laws. Gonong will serve for four years. other officers elected were Apolonio Julian, first vice president; Veronico Agatep, second vice president; Gloria resurreccion, third vice presi-

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BINAY camp hits smear campaign.

Inquirer file photo/Lyn Rillon

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A MARCH 16-18, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

From the Front Page

Conspiracy eyed in $81-M laundering…

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posited were opened at the Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) Jupiter Branch in Makati City. “I cannot make any final judgment but it is possible that there is conspiracy because the accounts were opened last year but remained dormant. Why RCBC? And why in that branch?” Recto said in an interview after the blue ribbon hearing. He raised the conspiracy scheme because, according to him, there is no way that such a huge transaction can be executed by just one individual particularly RCBC Jupiter Branch manager Maia Santos-Deguito. “So it is important for us to hear what Deguito has to say because it would appear that she really wants to say something,” Recto said. Deguito reportedly admitted opening an account for FilipinoChinese businessman William Go, into whose account the hacked money was deposited.

There were four accounts opened in the branch last year under the names of Enrico Vasquez, Alfred Vergara, Michael Cruz and Jessie Christopher Lagrosas with a deposit of $500 each. The next transactions happened on February 5, 2016 where the $81 million was divided. But the money was withdrawn simultaneously and deposited in the account of Go. None of the four owners of the accounts attended the Senate hearing. Go, who owns brokerage firm Centurytex Trading, denied owning the account where the stolen money was deposited and insisted that he never opened an account in RCBC Jupiter Branch. Deguito refused to answer questions of senators but expressed her willingness to provide all information in an executive session. According to her, a case has been filed against her by the Anti-Money laundering Council

(AMLC) before the Department of Justice (DOJ) and all her statements relating to the case can be used against her if she will talk during the hearing. Deguito, in a prepared statement, said she had no intention to disregard or offend members of the committee and that she intends to fully cooperate in the proceeding, but she also wants to protect her rights. “We wish to respectfully underscore that, by this time, any statement she publicly makes, especially those under oath, shall be binding on her, worse, may and will be used against her in said criminal proceedings,” the statement read. The bank manager invoked her right to remain silent when asked by Sen. Teofisto Guingona 3rd, blue ribbon chairman, if she did not find anything alarming on the transactions made in four accounts that have been inactive since May 2015. RCBC president and chief ex-

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THE GRADUATES. Philippine Military Academy graduates toss their chaku caps up into the air after graduation ceremonies at the PMA in Baguio City. Kristian Daeve Gelacio Abiqui, who topped the Gabay-Laya Class of 2016, received the Presidential Saber Award. ManilaTimes.net photo by Thom Picaña

UNA says AMLC report false…

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the court. The corrections included its claim that Binay had 242 bank accounts when it admitted that only one bank account was under the name of Binay, with a balance of P1.7 million “and not billions as the agency earlier claimed,” he said. Tiangco said that only two weeks ago, the AMLC asked the Manila RTC to drop JC Binay Foundation and Agrifortuna Inc., from the case—after it had claimed that these two entities established links of Binay to his aide, Gerry Limlingan. “The AMLC’s recent motion constitutes an admission that it cannot prove its assertion and is mere conjecture. In short, the AMLC flip-flopped not only once, but twice,” Tiangco said. Inconsistencies He cited other “inconsistencies” in the AMLC report: In its ex parte petition for the issuance of a freeze order with the Court of Appeals in May 2015, the AMLC said Binay’s deposit transactions with several banks totaling at least P263 million and withdrawals of at least P266 million “originated

from illicit and/or undeclared activities”’ because his declared salaries per the statement of assets, liabilities and net worth as of Dec. 31, 2009, as Makati mayor and Dec. 31, 2010, as Vice President were P937,773 and P541,930, respectively. Likewise, the AMLC said Binay did not declare any business interest and also alleged the wide gap between his legitimate income and his total bank accounts from 2009-2014. “In its petition filed in the Manila RTC, the AMLC now admits that the previously ‘unjustified deposits and withdrawals’ actually pertain to campaign contributions and expenses,” Tiangco said, noting that Binay’s camp had stated these amounts had been duly declared and reported in his statement of campaign contributions and expenses. “The AMLC’s flip-flopping as well as the actuation of certain AMLC officials show that [they] have been less truthful. The officers of AMLC have deliberately used their office as a tool for political oppression,” he said. Tiangco said this was why AMLC officials were included in the P200-million damage suit

filed by Binay last year. He pointed out that the AMLC continued to refuse to divulge its report in the damage suit against it as well as its forfeiture case. Select media “It seems that the copy of their report is exclusively for select media and Liberal Party officials. So much for fairness and due process,” Tiangco said. He said the alliance would ask the National Bureau of Investigation to “unmask the personalities behind the spread of the supposed AMLC report.” “The Vice President sees the release of this outdated report as part of a well-orchestrated plot to destroy his reputation and stop his mission to serve the country as President,” he said. Tiangco said Binay was prepared to face his accusers in court but would “not let those resorting to criminal acts to malign him continue to do so with impunity.” The UNA president said the release of the AMLC report to the media was a “well-funded and well-planned black propaganda” against Binay, describing this to be “unprecedented in scale and

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Investing in Dreams at the University of California By Janet Napolitano Editor’s note: This column is one in a series written by University of California President Janet Napolitano as part of a partnership with New America Media, whose members include this publication. We nurture dreams on the campuses of the University of California. We want to make sure every student has the opportunity to pursue aspirations that will shape a lifetime of accomplishments – and personal contributions to the larger society. We see evidence of UC’s culture of opportunity when we look at the enrollment of first-generation college students, who make up 42 percent of our 195,000 undergraduates. Financial aid covers the full tuition of more than 55 percent of UC undergraduate students. Yet expenses such as food and housing can affect student access and success as much as tuition and fees, so financial aid at UC is based on the total cost of an undergraduate education. Students who qualify for financial grants receive, on average, $4,000 more than the cost of tuition and fees. And students from the lowest-income families receive an average of $11,000 to cover expenses such as housing, food and books. At the same time, financial aid recipients are expected to contribute to their educational costs through work and borrowing. For some students, the opportunity gap is particularly large. Undocumented students who graduate from a California high school and meet California DREAM Act requirements are eligible for state and university aid. But their status disqualifies them from receiving federal aid, severely limiting their access to student loans – and making it difficult to get private loans. Now, for the first time, these more than 3,000 students qualify for loans through the California DREAM Loan Program, which UC sponsored and the Legislature passed in 2014. This loan fund of $5 million will be distributed according to need across the nine UC undergraduate campuses. It will help level the playing field for undocumented students struggling to make ends meet. I recently learned about a young Korean American student whose story illustrates why this is such a vital investment in our future. Brought to this country by his mother from Korea when he was four years old, he was a

beneficiary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program I launched in 2012 when I was Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Now 19, he was admitted to UC Berkeley and received a scholarship that covers housing and tuition. He is studying mechanical engineering, and is aiming to work for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Another student I learned about, Isais Palma, has a different dream. The son of Mexican immigrants, Mr, Palma was born and raised in Oeanside and recently graduated from UC Merced – the first in his family to go to college. Now both his brother and sister attend UC Merced and he is working in that city as a community organizer with plans to go into politics. He says UC Merced is training a whole new generation of people like himself determined to make a difference in their community. Two dreams, one shared opportunity: a classic UC story.

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From the Front Page

LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • MARCH 16-18, 2016

A

Aquino: Foreign leaders respect PH… PAGE A1 t

on how foreign leaders treated Filipinos shabbily. “There was a time when state leaders would even treat us like we were beggars. Now they are asking me how I was able to spur our growth and economy,” he said. “And I told them: good governance is good economics,” he added. Sarmiento told the President the story of foreign immigration agents doubting the purpose of his travel. Aquino said he experienced the same thing, and on the national level, unlike Sarmiento who was a former mayor in Samar province. “And I told Mel, we are in the same situation.” Sarmiento cracked a joke that when he was still a local chief executive, he envied other local

officials from other countries that every time they are invited to a conference abroad they easily pass the immigration process. His foreign counterparts had always been “welcomed,” but when his turn at the immigration desk came, the agent would always look at his passport, visa and match this with his face, repeat the process, then check the watch list. Sarmiento also recalled the final common query: “What is the purpose of your visit?” to which he would reply, “I was invited to this conference.” The immigration agent would then make a follow up: “Do you have proof?” He would then be forced to go over his files and show the official invitation. Sarmiento also vividly remembers how the 100 pieces of busi-

ness cards he brought remained intact, as nobody would exchange cards with him, probably out of fear he might solicit for fire trucks or ambulance. In the same meeting with the governors, Aquino reminded local executives that the government does not need to make promises since they have delivered much in terms of massive infrastructure projects across the country. Aquino endorsed the candidacy of Liberal Party standardbearer Manuel Roxas II before the governors. He asked the governors to help Roxas continue the daang matuwid policy of his administration. Aquino said he endorsed Roxas and his runningmate Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo because he can personally guarantee that both will continue the reforms he initiated in government. n

In an article, PCIJ executive director Malou Mangahas said if these candidates had been dipping into their own pockets, nearly all of them would now be on the throes of bankruptcy. She pointed out that Roxas, Binay and Poe “had even made it to the Billion-Peso Club of ad spenders ahead of the official 90day campaign period that started on February 9, 2016.” “According to Nielsen Media’s monitoring reports, as of January 31, 2016 and by the rate card of media agencies, the political ads featuring these three as “advertiser” and “product” had reached the billionth mark: P1,050,065,096 for Binay, P1,016,414,123 for Poe; and P969,173,267 for Roxas. And while he decided to run only in

December 2016, a fourth candidate for President, Rodrigo Duterte of the PDP-Laban Party, had also recorded a bill of P146,351,131 for his pre-campaign ads,” Mangahas said. She said six candidates for Vice President incurred similarly significant expenses for their solo ads: P419,002,456 for Duterte’s official running mate Alan Peter Cayetano; P273,856,544 for LP’s Maria Leonor ‘Leni’ Robredo; P252,503,856 for Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr.; P29,673,341 for UNA’s Gregorio ‘Gringo’ Honasan 2nd; P8,953,380 for Antonio Trillanes 4th; and P2,776,000 for GP’s Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero. (ManilaTimes.net)

SENATE RESOLUTION. Senate President Franklin Drilon (center) presents Senate Resolution 118 to Ricardo Salonga (fifth from left), son of former Senate President Jovito Salonga, expressing the Senate’s profound sympathy and sincere condolences on Tuesday, March 15. Current and former senators took turns praising Salonga during his necrological service at the Senate, recalling his humility, political achievements and devotion to the country. Also in photo are (from right) Senators Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, Cynthia Villar, Loren Legarda, Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, Teofisto “TG” Guingona III and Salonga’s relatives. Senate photo by Alex Nueva España

Candidates’ ads bill hits a whopping P6.7B… Gonong elected FACLA president…

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report of Nielsen Media, which has monitored the political ads of candidates shown on TV. “By Nielsen Media’s monitoring reports, overkill is an understatement. It does not suffice to describe the stupendously rich pre-campaign ad spend of four candidates for President–Jejomar Binay of the United Nationalist Alliance; Rodrigo Duterte of PDPLaban; Grace Poe of the Galing at Puso slate; and Manuel ‘Mar’ Roxas 2nd of the Liberal Party. Specific to the last detail, Nielsen Media’s reports enroll the day, date and time, and in which TV programs the ads aired; their rate card cost at the time of broadcast; and which versions of the candidates’ ad materials ran,” the PCIJ said.

Filipinos in US laud the late Sen. Jovito…

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try was saddened by the passing of “a very good man who was a very integral part of contemporary history, a very valiant defender of democracy, an institution when it comes to human rights, and the struggle for freedom and dignity.” “Having participated in those struggles for democratic rights, I am saddened to see a good man die,” Bensurto intimated. “His legacy includes all the things that he fought for, democracy, human rights, freedom, human dignity, these are values that we will continue to hold dear to

our hearts and continue to fight for and ensure not to lose again. This is something we will carry in the next decades or so and have to fight for and exert a lot of effort to preserve. The whole country and the next generations will forever be grateful to him and he has our love and admiration.” Senator Heherson Alvarez, erstwhile secretary-general of the Movement for Free Philippines (MFP also led by Senator Raul Manglapus) and a founding chairman of Ninoy Aquino Movement (NAM), recalled that

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dent; Rosalinda Nery, treasurer; Aleli Neal, auditor; and Orlando Cagampan, secretary. The 14 members of the board of directors, who were elected in a general election in December, finally broke a deadlock wherein seven directors voted for Gonong and seven for Baul in several sessions held to elect the officers from among the directors. Three directors from Baul’s camp -- Baul, Danilo Adlawan and Leticia Reyes -- were absent from the Monday meeting but the four others -- Manocito Santos, Susan de Guzman, Susan Pineda and Teddy Mangune -- plus all seven from Gonong’s party were present for a total of 11 present, which was enough to constitute a quorum and elect the officers. The new officers and directors will be sworn in on April 10 at the Hilton in Glendale. “Now that we have elected the officers, we can finally move forward and start our work according to the visions and missions set forth by the organization’s founders,” Gonong said. “I call

on all the officers and members to set aside personal differences and unite to achieve our goals in serving the Filipino community.” Gonong said he hopes to unite the present members, welcome new members to the organization and bring back the glory and prestige of the organization. To expand FACLA’s membership roster, Gonong said he would push for the amendment of its constitution and by-laws to allow free membership to every Filipino in the Greater Los Angeles area. Voting members, however, will be asked to pay a minimal $5 membership fee. At present, an annual fee of $20 is charged new members, and $10 for old members. FACLA was established on April 26, 1945 shortly before the end of the Second World War as a halfway house for Filipino farm workers who settled in Los Angeles to work as seasonal workers in different states from as far north as Alaska and as far west as Missouri and Illinois. It is believed to be the oldest non-profit organization in the US.

The present FACLA building was built in 1965 on the same site where the two halfway houses were built on Temple Street in what is now known as Historic Filipinotown. FACLA has been hounded by political intrigues and infighting for years, which alienated many Filipinos who have since distanced themselves from the organization. “With FACLA celebrating its 71st anniversary this month, the new leaders hope to work on the original goals of the organization to serve Filipinos in the Los Ageles area in the same way that it provided safe shelter and crucial services to the manongs of yesteryears,” Gonong said. Gonong said FACLA should be the vanguard organization for all Filipinos in Los Angeles in the community’s quest for political and economic empowerment in this part of America. “It’s about time that the Filipino community show to mainstream America that it is united and is a vital component of American society,” Gonong added. n

UNA says AMLC report false… PAGE A2 t

Senator Jovito Salonga

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viciousness.” Trial by publicity “Those seeking to put down the Vice President through trial by publicity should not be allowed to commit crimes and violate the law like they did in this lat-

est episode involving the release and publication of a false AMLC report,” he said. “With the debate coming up, the PDI story is obviously part of this orchestrated effort to take the focus away from the basic issues of poverty and the need for a com-

petent and compassionate government, which the Vice President provides the country,” he said. Tiangco was referring to the second presidential debate organized by the Commission on Elections that will be held in Cebu on March 20. n

A MARCH 16-18, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL

Dateline USa

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Filipina worker in California accuses Walmart of mistreatment by Jun

nucum Inquirer.net

UNION CITY, Calif. — Claiming that the Walmart superstore chain doesn’t care enough for its workers, labor union members staged a protest at the store’s outlet in this city March 10 in support of a Filipina sales associate’s demand for adequate workman’s compensation. “Walmart, Walmart, you’re no good, treat your workers like you should!� chanted members of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) union, including disgruntled Walmart employees, who complained of mistreatment. Maria Umali, originally of Paombong, Bulacan, said she was shabbily treated after an incident at a Walmart changing room as she was ending her work shift. “On May 17, 2015 7 p.m., I slipped on a wet paint area that had no warning sign at a changing room when I was about to finish my shift. And they did not respond or did anything right away. They just pulled me out from the wet paint, placed me in a corner then later to a training room. They did nothing else as the co-manager wanted to wait for next shift’s assistant manager

Maria Umali (foreground) with union members protesting at Walmart in Union City, California. Photo by Jun Nucum

to do something, like take me to the hospital. Umali said she was made to wait for two hours even though she was in pain and could not move her lower limbs anymore. She said she was placed on a wheelchair and then made to ride the pickup truck of one of the associates that took her to St. Rose Hospital in Hayward. “They did not call for help from the hospital. Coworkers were the ones who took me from the pickup to the wheelchair again. After a few hours at St. Rose, they sent me to a farther Highland Hospital

in Oakland, which was two cities away, at 3 a.m. which was not right,� Umali recounted. Umali was sent to a care home for rehabilitation for three weeks after being discharged from Highland Hospital and, all the while, no manager saw her asked about her condition. They just let workers’ compensation benefits take care of her needs. “I did not get anything more after that. I cannot work even at home anymore, and they declined thrice the request of the doctor for a caregiver to help

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Filipinos in US laud the late Sen. Jovito‌

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COMMUNITY SERVICE. A member of the us Navy reads to students of the Padre Guevarra elementary school in tondo, Manila. Crew of the ticonderogaclass guided-missile Cruiser USS Antietam (CG 54) that arrived in Manila for a port visit on March 8 participated in several community service events. ManilaTimes.net photo by DJ DIosina

This Friday marks important deadline for many Asian American and Pacific Islander voters Deadline to request vote-by-mail crossover voting for the June primary is March 18

LOS ANGELES — This Friday, March 18, marks a potentially important deadline for many Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) voters in California. At 35 percent statewide, AAPI voters have the largest number of unaffiliated voters, or voters who are not registered with a political party. On June 7, California voters will participate in primary elections, helping select the Presidential nominee for each major political party. All registered voters who are not affiliated with a political party must take an extra step in order to vote for a presidential candidate in the California primary. In California, each political party decides whether it will allow unaffiliated voters to vote in its primary. This year, the Democratic Party, American Independent Party, and Libertarian Party

Beams about what she knew of the Marcos wealth. Beams told them that she didn’t know that much because she barely got out of the country after Imelda tried to get her killed. “I got to know him personally and I was impressed by the sharpness of his intellect and inspired by his passionate love of our country. He was a patriot of the first order,� Rodis said. For her part, author, editor and journalist Gemma Nemenzo believes that if Senator Salonga was set as the standard by which Filipinos choose their leaders, no one in the current crop of politicians would pass. “He was the last of the great statesmen, along with Senators Claro M. Recto, Lorenzo Tanada, Jose W. Diokno — people who made us proud at a time when being a legislator was considered a sacred trust, not a means PAGE A1 t to plunder or to abuse.� (Jun Nu- for an H-1B, starting in October 2008, as part of the old program. cum / Inquirer.net) Others can choose to continue their education, while some will depart the United States. ICE and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officials have estiPAUNAWA NG PAMPUBLIKONG PAGDINIG mated that approximately 12,000 Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Awtoridad sa Transportapeople will take advantage of the syon ng Kalunsuran ng County ng Los Angeles) new STEM extension. The new STEM OPT rules were initially proposed in October 2015 Ang Independiyenteng Komite sa Pagpapayo at Pagbabantay ng mga Mamamayan (ICAOC) Komite sa Pagbabantay) ay magsasagawa ng isang pampublikong pagdinig sa Martes, ika-19 ng Abril, 2016 sa 11:30 a.m., sa Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority Boardroom na by the Department of Homeland matatagpuan sa One Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles. Security, after a federal judge vacated the previous rules that AuAng ICAOC ay itinalaga sa ilalim ng Batas ng 1998 sa Reporma at Pananagutan ng Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA), inaprobahan gust. The judge’s action also left ng mga botante noong Nobyembre 1998. Ang pagdinig ay ginaganap bilang pagsunod sa pederal na mga iniaatas sa pampublikong pagdinig na nakabalangkas sa Seksiyon 9 (e) (3) (H) ng Batas ng 1983 sa Transportasyong Pang-ibabaw, gaya ng sinusugan at mga patnubay sa pampublikong an estimated 50,000 STEM workpagdinig na pinagtibay ng Lupon ng mga Direktor ng LACMTA noong 1993, gaya ng sinusuggan. ers and their employers hanging, until the DHS drafted a replaceAng layunin ng pagdinig na ito ay upang tumanggap ng mga komento ng publiko tungkol sa resulta ng independiyenteng pagsusuri na isinagawa ment for the public student visa sa pananagutan ng LACMTA sa mga kita at paggasta sa buwis sa pagbebenta sa ilalim ng mga ordinansang Proposisyon A at Proposisyon C mula ika-1 ng Hulyo, 2014 - hanggang ika-30 ng Hunyo, 2015. program, which essentially paves the way for hands-on job training NAKARAAN and experience after graduation. According to Numbers USA, Ang Proposisyon A at Proposisyon C ay mga ordinansang inaprobahan ng botante na nagtatadhana ng kalahating porsiyentong buwis sa pagbebenta sa County ng Los Angeles, ang mga nalikom nito ay gagamitin para sa layuning pantransportasyon gaya ng tinukoy sa dalawang ordinansa. the original STEM extension was struck down “because DHS did Inaprobahan ng mga botante ng County ng Los Angeles ang Batas ng 1998 sa Reporma at Pananagutan (ang Batas) ng Metropolitan Transportation not go through the public and Authority (LACMTA) noong Nobyembre ng 1998. Ang layunin ng Batas ay upang magtadhana ng pananagutan sa paggasta ng kita sa buwis sa comment process when they pagbabenta ng Proposisyon A at Poposisyon C sa pamamagitan ng mga tauhang independiyenteng pagsusui ng mga paggasta ng buwis sa pagbebenta para sa transportasyon, ang paglikha ng isang Independiyenteng Komite sa Pagpapayo at Pagbabantay ng Mamamayan, at mga issued the extension in 2008, pampublikong pagdinig tungkol sa mga ulat ng independiyenteng pagsusuri. Ang Batas ay nag-aatas ng isang taunang independiyenteng pagsusuri which violates the Administrative ng mga Kita at Paggasta ng mga buwis sa Pagbebenta ng mga Proposisyon A at C. Procedure Act (APA).� District of Columbia District Ang Independiyenteng Komite sa Pagpapapayo at Pagbabantay ng mga Mamamayan alinsunod sa Batas ay nagkakaloob ng buod na ito ng independiyenteng pagsusuri para sa taon ng pananalapi na natapos noong ika-30 ng Hunyo, 2015. Court Judge Ellen Segal Huvelle gave a six-month deadline for a ULAT NG INDEPENDIYENTENG TAGASURI replacement program to be developed, after a technology workAng Ulat ng Independiyenteng Tagasuri ay nagkakaloob ng mga iskedyul ng mga kita at paggasta para sa mga Proposisyon A at C para sa taon ng pananalapi na natapos noong ika-30 ng Hunyo, 2015, nagpapakita ng mga halaga ng mga kita ng buwis sa pagbebenta sa transportasyon na ers’ labor union filed suit against natanggap at ginasta ng LACMTA. Ang mga iskedyul na ito ng mga Proposisyon A at C ay inihanda ng LACMTA at sinuri ng independiyenteng the first STEM OPT program. kompanya ng pagsusuri na BCA Watson Rice, LLP (BCA). Ang BCA ay nagsagawa ng pagsusuri ng mga iskedyul ng pananalapi ng mga Proposisyon Huvelle’s ruling centered on A at C alinsunod sa pangkaraniwang tinatanggap na mga pamantayan sa pagsusuri sa Estados Unidos ng Amerika. procedural issues discovered in Batay sa mga resulta ng pagsusuri, ang Ulat ng Independiyenteng Tagasuri ay nagkakaloob ng: 2008 with the rule’s original im‡ RSLQ\RQ QJ LQGHSHQGL\HQWHQJ WDJDVXUL WXQJNRO VD NXQJ DQJ PJD LVNHG\XO QJ 3URSRVLV\RQ $ DW & D\ QDJSDSDNLWD QDQJ PDNDWDUXQJDQ VD O plementation. lahat ng mahahalagang bagay, ng mga kita at paggasta ng mga kita sa buwis ng buwis sa pagbebenta ng Proposisyon A at C; DHS proposed the new rule on ‡ PJD QDJSDSDOLZDQDJ QD WDOD VD PJD LVNHG\XO QJ PJD NLWD DW SDJJDVWD October 19, 2015, and received ‡ XODW QJ LQGHSHQGL\HQWHQJ WDJDVXUL WXQJNRO VD SDJVXQRG DW SDQORRE QD NRQWURO VD pag-uuulat na pananalapi ng Proposisyon A at C; over 50,000 public comments. They had until February 12 to esOpinyon ng Tagasuri Tungkol sa Paghaharap ng Iskedyul ng Pananalapi tablish the rule under the correct Ang Ulat ng Independiyenteng Tagasuri ay nagkakaloob ng opinyon para sa taon ng pananalapi na natapos noong ika-30 ng Hunyo, 2015, ang mga APA procedures. iskedyul ng mga kita at paggasta para sa Proposisyon A at C na nagpapakita nang makatarungan, sa lahat ng mahahalagang bagay, ng mga kita at Beyond offering graduates paggasta ng kita sa buwis sa pagbebenta ng Proposisyon A at C. more field experience, the exIskedyul ng mga Kita at Paggasta ng LACMTA sa Proposisyon A at C tension serves to give immigrant (Ang mga halaga ay ipinahayag sa mga libo) students more time. “If my work visa gets denied this year, I still Mga Kita Mga Paggasta $ 746,613 $ 286,600 have two more opportunities to Proposisyon A 858,106 541,514 apply, and I can keep working Proposisyon C $1,604,719 $ 828,114 with the country,� said 24-year-

Salonga was a guerilla fighter maltreated in prison during the Japanese occupation. “We deeply mourn the loss of a fellow freedom fighter against a home grown oppressor,� Alvarez said in an email message. “The clarity of his democratic vision was the spine for his vigorous conscientious objection to martial rule, contrary to the current attempts of twisting history that the dark era of the Marcos conjugal dictatorship was the ‘golden age’ in our country.� Alvarez recalled that under a restored democracy, Salonga vigorously asserted Philippine sovereignty, helping terminate the US bases agreement. “He impressed me as an intelligent man with high principles and integrity,� said attorney Ted Laguatan who worked closely with Salonga in uncovering “the billions (of dollars) stolen from the Filipino people by the Marco-

ses,� preparing the mechanism for the search “even before the dictator’s downfall. He devoted his entire life to public service and continued even after the serious injuries he suffered in the Plaza Miranda bombing. Truly an admirable man.� Rodel Rodis, also an attorney and an INQUIRER.net columnist said Salonga w was his inspiration in becoming a lawyer: “I knew he topped the bar in 1944 and that he went to Yale.� “I met him personally in 1986 after he was appointed by President Cory Aquino as chair of the Philippine Commission on Good Government (PCGG) tasked with the recovery of the billions of dollars Marcos and his cronies stole from the PH government. He came to San Francisco and I met him as a volunteer PCGG attorney,� Rodis said. Rodis recalled that Salonga went to Pasadena and interviewed Marcos paramour Dovie

have decided to allow such unaffiliated voters to vote in their primaries. This is called crossover voting. Permanent vote-by-mail voters who want to crossover vote must have their request for a crossover ballot postmarked by this Friday, March 18. Other parties, such as the Republican Party, hold closed primaries and do not allow non-party members to crossover. To vote in a closed primary, voters must register with that party before the voter registration deadline of May 23, 2016. Local election officials should have sent all unaffiliated voters information and a postcard to return in order to request the ballot. Voters who did not receive the information should contact their local election official. In Los Angeles, call 562-466-1323, and in Orange County, call 714567-7600.

Unaffiliated vote-by-mail voters who do nothing will still receive a “nonpartisan� ballot for the June election. That ballot will not have any presidential candidates listed. These voters may still crossover vote but must go to their poll site on June 7 and trade in their “nonpartisan� ballot for a Democratic, American Independent, or Libertarian Party ballot. On June 7, only registered Republicans can vote on the Republican ballot. In November, all registered voters have the opportunity to vote for the presidential candidate regardless of party affiliation. For more information on this issue, see the Orange County Registrar of Voters website at: http://www.ocvote.com/voting/ current-election-info/2016-presidential-primary-election-info/ no-party-preference-voters-frequently-asked-questions. n

Program allows int’l STEM grads to stay‌

Mga Nagpapaliwanag na Tala sa Iskedyul ng mga Kita at Paggasta Ang mga nagpapaliwanag na tala ay nagkakaloob ng impormasyon sa nakaraan tungkol sa LACMTA, mga Proposisyon A at C, at mga patakaran sa pagtutuos ng LACMTA. Ulat ng Tagasuri Tungkol sa Pagsunod sa mga Tadhana ng Proposisyon A at C

Ulat ng Tagasuri Tungkol sa mga Panloob na Kontrol sa Pag-uulat ng Pananalapi Ang ulat tungkol sa mga panloob na kontrol sa pag-uulat ng pananalapi ay nagsasaad na bilang bahagi ng pagsusuri, isinaalang-alang ng BCA ang panloob na kontrol ng LACMTA sa pag-uulat ng pananalapi upang malaman ang mga pamamaraan sa pagsusuri na angkop sa mga kalagayan para sa layuning ipahayag ang kanilang opinyon tungkol sa pagiging mabisa ng panloob na kontrol ng LACMTA. Ang BCA ay walang itinalagang mga bagay na may kaugnayan sa panloob na kontrol sa pag-uulat ng pananalapi at sa pagpapatakbo nito na itinuturing ng BCA na mahahalagang kahinaan. Ang mga nakasulat na komento tungkol sa bagay na ito ay tatanggapin hanggang Martes, ika-19 ng Abril, 2016. Lahat ng mga komento ay dapat ipadala sa Board Administration, LACMTA, One Gateway Plaza, Mail Stop 99-3-39, Los Angeles, CA 90012-2952. Ang mga Kopya ng Ulat ng mga Indepeniyenteng Tagasuri tungkol sa mgamga Iskedyul ng mga Kita at Paggasta para sa Kita sa buwis sa Pagbebenta ng Proposisyon A at Kita sa Pagbebenta ng Proposisyon C ay makukula mula sa Records Management Center sa LACMTA Plaza Level sa (213) 922-2342. CNS-2845512#

Technology Workers’ lawsuit brought to light exploitation concerns with the program, regarding replacing American workers with cheaper foreign labor. “It’s an ongoing assault on American workers,� said John Miano, a lawyer for a technology workers’ union in Washington State. “They are just trying to double down on what they’re doing before. ‘OK, you didn’t like 29 months? We’ll make it 36 months’.� A hearing on the issue is set for May in the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. Despite the challenge, according to US News & World Report, ICE’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program will move forward with plans to provide informational sessions about the new program for employers, academic institutions and eligible students. ICE also plans to secure training programs and mandate employer oversight, in order to prevent fraud. “In our mind, it enhances training and puts safeguards in to make sure that if you are an employer that you are not unfairly disadvantaging US workers,� Rachel Canty, exchange visitor program deputy director, told the New York Times. Heather Stewart, Counsel & Director of Immigration Policy for the National Association of Foreign Student Affairs, noted, “NAFSA is glad that DHS issued the ruling in this manner because it gives DHS time to educate and train their people to implement it. We look forward to working with SEVP on implementation.� “The labor market is tight,� said Michael DesRochers, president of Loring Consulting Engineers in New York. “We don’t look at it as the international students are taking away American opportunities. We feel we’re offering to all.� The new OPT STEM extension will take effect on May 10. (Allyson Escobar / AJPress)

Conspiracy eyed in $81-M laundering‌ PAGE A2 t

Ang ulat tungkol sa pagsunod ay nagsasaad na ang independiyenteng pagsusuri ay nagsama ng mga pagsubok sa pagsunod na may mga partikular na tadhana ng mga batas at regulasyon, hindi pagsunod na maaaring magkaroon ng tuwiran at mahalagang epekto sa pagpapasiya ng mga halaga at kita at paggasta sa loob ng mga Iskedyul. Ang mga resulta ng mga pagsunod ay hindi nagsiwalat ng mga pagkakataon ng hindi pagsunod na iniaatas na iulat sa ilalim ng Mga Pamantayan sa Pagsusuri ng Pamahalaan.

old Shruthi Aramandla, a New York University graduate from India working as an engineer. According to USCIS, the new STEM program has four new, notable features: • Extended stay – The old OPT program allowed STEM graduates to stay for up to two and a half years for on-the-job training. The new program extends the time to three years, enabling workers more meaningful time to train in often highly technical STEM jobs. It also provides extra time for those in the process of applying for study grants. • Protections for American and foreign workers alike – Under the new regulations, employers must submit formal training and mentoring plans (in line with US workers in similar employment positions) to the government for OPT STEM employees. Companies must also pay foreign workers the same wages American counterparts make. STEM students must also not replace a full-time, part-time, temporary or permanent US worker. • Greater visa opportunity – By extending the OPT STEM program to three years, the new program potentially provides participants a third opportunity to apply for a more permanent H-1B work visa. An estimated 250,000 people applied for this visa in the 2014 fiscal year with only about a third gaining approval. • Quality education assurances – The new program also offers some safeguards to assure foreign students study at legitimate schools. To work under the OPT STEM program, students must meet requirements such as obtaining their degrees from accredited American institutions. The rule protects students from some disreputable for-profit colleges, and guards the country against frauds who would simply enroll in a degree mill programs to gain the OPT STEM extension. The Washington Alliance of

ecutive officer Lorenzo Tan also invoked bank secrecy laws in not answering questions on certain bank accounts. “I was advised by counsel your honor to refrain from talking about bank accounts and specific transactions. I apologize,� Tan responded when asked about the alleged fake document used by the depositors to open the accounts. Tan was allowed by the committee to read his prepared statement regarding the incident and his reply to the allegations of Deguito that he has knowledge of

the transactions. “We vehemently deny and disallow any and all knowledge, complicity or participation in the alleged money laundering of $100 million in the Philippines,� he said. “More important, I have no personal knowledge of, much less personal participation, in any of the transactions that are subject of this inquiry,� Tan added. He pointed out that RCBC processes more than two million transactions per month with an average peso value of P1 trillion and although he was the CEO of the company, he does not know

or have to approve all of the bank’s transactions. Deguito said she was personally recruited by Tan from EastWest Bank but the latter denied this. Senator Sergio Osmena 3rd, vice chairman of the blue ribbon committee, is not convinced that Tan is involved in the transactions. “I don’t think the RCBC president will risk his reputation for this stupidity. He’s making much too much money. The branch manager is really the key person in any banking system,â€? OsmeĂąa said. n

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A

Dateline PhiliPPines

Pulse: Poe retains lead as Duterte overtakes Binay by Helen

Flores Philstar.com

BRING BACK THE BILLIONS. The millennials are not as vulnerable at all, as how they are perceived by the older generations. Donning electronic bowties like the one Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos as a young man wore on a family yacht party in the now-infamous Marcos Home Videos, the iBalikangBilyones ng Mamamayan (BBM) Movement demanded that Marcos return his family’s ill-gotten wealth as a prerequisite to becoming the nation’s Vice President. “It is incredibly sad that some of our fellow youth have fallen victim to historical white-washing,” said Bea Reyno, a spokesperson of the BBM Movement and a member of the UP Diliman University Student Council, in a statement.

Filipina worker in California…

PAGE A4 t

me go around because my 79year-old Portuguese fiancée for 15 years and who was helping me had passed away in January this year,” Umali cried in an interview later. Now at 63, she is rendered disabled by the injury, living on an $800 monthly compensation that is not even enough for her $1,200 monthly rent. “And this is what I get from a company I worked hard and spent my best working time for the last 16 years since 1999, facing some very rued customers. They are treating me now like an unwanted rag, which I was not when I was healthy. At least they could give me some measure of recognition and respect for someone who worked hard for them,” Umali rued. Umali stressed that she does not other Walmart workers, particularly the Filipinos that comprise 75 percent of the Union City workforce, to suffer her fate as Walmart’s workers compensation package is not enough. Although she has four children, two of whom are left in Paombong, her two other children who are in Hayward and Las Vegas have their own families to take care of. Alameda County District 2 Supervisor Richard Valle, whose ju-

risdiction includes Union City and Fremont where Umali currently lives, made clear that he was in the rally because of what happened to Maria, a constituent. “That’s really terrible because when somebody gets injured on the job, within six or seven minutes, the fire department can report and then you can have an ambulance there within eight or nine minutes. So for Walmart to take two hours for somebody with a broken hip sitting on the floor and couldn’t be moved, is just criminal. And that’s why I am here today,” Valle declared. Valle further observed that Walmart’s safety procedures clearly are not adequate that resulted to serious injuries to one of its employees. Maria worked for the store for at least 13 year, Valle said, “so she is not a short-term employee and she made an investment of her life into this company helping them make huge profits. So you wonder sometimes why a company that makes billions of dollars can pay so little in wages and benefits.” asked Valle. Valle vowed to fight for Maria who needs somebody at home to help her get around. “As elected officials, we have the responsibility to speak out to the principals of Walmart. Many times I have met with the managers of

this store for different causes and they have stepped up in very small ways. In a very big way, their shortcoming is a lack of training for their employees when it comes to safety.” Valle, however, said that Walmart turns over managers very quickly. “They move from store to store to store and it is hard to find somebody here who is accountable. And that is one of the business practices I think they actually do purposely to avoid any kind of responsibility.” He believes that pressure must be put on Walmart’s national directors “who are very well paid,” its shareholders and investors to pay attention to the people who are actually doing the work for them. “I am now talking about redistribution of wealth, sharing in the wealth, and taking those billions and investing them back into the workers who created wealth for the company,” Valle declared. Meanwhile, Umali continues to wait for the result of her demand for better compensation. She is now being taken care of by another disgruntled Filipina former coworker at Walmart who volunteers her help for free. Walmart Union City managers claimed they did not know that a rally was held within their vicinity and could not comment.

You may qualify for a cash back tax credit! Did you know there’s a new tax credit for California’s working families?

The California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) puts money back in pockets of working families. With the federal and CalEITC you could boost your tax return by hundreds – or even thousands of dollars. To see if you qualify, visit CalEITC4Me.org

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MANILA – Independent presidential candidate Sen. Grace Poe retained her lead in the latest Pulse Asia survey commissioned by ABS-CBN, while Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte dislodged Vice President Jejomar Binay at second place. Based on the Pulse Asia poll taken from March 1 to 6, Poe was the top choice for president, getting the support of 28 percent of 2,600 registered voters. Poe also topped the ABS-CBNcommissioned survey of Pulse Asia last Feb. 16 to 27, where she obtained 26 percent of votes of 5,200 registered voters. The latest Pulse Asia survey was conducted days before the Supreme Court handed down its ruling allowing Poe to run for president in the May 9 elections. Duterte, standard bearer of the PDP-Laban, received 24 percent voter preference in March, up from 22 percent in February. Sharing third place are Binay of the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) with 21 (from 24 percent) and Manuel Roxas II of the Liberal Party (LP) with 20 percent (from 19 percent). Three percent of Filipino registered voters back the candidacy of Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago (People’s Reform Party). Five percent of the respondents did not express support for any presidential candidate. Poe, daughter of the late actor Fernando Poe Jr. and actress Susan Roces, is the top choice for president in the rest of Luzon (36 percent) and Metro Manila (30 percent). Roxas led the candidates in the Visayas with 37 percent. Mindanaoans are most supportive of the presidential bid of Duterte (47 percent). In Classes ABC and E, the top four presidential contenders registered basically the same voter preferences as they shared the lead in both socio-economic classes – Duterte (30 percent and 21 percent, respectively), Binay (21 percent and 22 percent, respectively), Poe (17 percent and 25 percent, respectively) and

Roxas (17 percent and 26 percent, respectively). In Class D, however, Poe led by a large margin at 29 percent. Second-choice voter preference The same survey showed almost three in 10 Filipino registered voters with a first choice for president would vote for Poe in the event that their original presidential candidate backs out of the May 2016 elections. In second place is Binay (21 percent), followed by Roxas and Duterte, who shared for third place (14 percent each) in terms of second-choice voter preferences. Less than one in 10 registered voters named Santiago as their alternative candidate for president in May 2016. The rest of registered voters (14 percent) do not have a second choice for president, Pulse Asia said. In the rest of Luzon and Class D, Poe topped the other presidential candidates in terms of second-choice voter preferences (30 percent to 31 percent). In the Visayas, nearly the same percentages of registered voters either support Poe as their alternative presidential bet (27 percent) or do not have any second choice for the post (19 percent). Among Mindanaoans, the top alternative presidential bets are Poe (25 percent), Binay (24 percent) and Duterte (20 percent). In the Class ABC, Poe (30 percent), Roxas (15 percent) and Santiago (15 percent) registered essentially the same secondchoice voter preferences. As for those in the poorest Class E, they are most inclined to vote for Poe (25 percent), followed by

Binay (23 percent) or Duterte (19 percent) as their second choice for the presidency. Pulse Asia noted that should Poe not pursue her presidential bid, a sizeable plurality of her original voters or 29 percent would shift their support to Binay. On the other hand, Poe is the second choice for president of sizeable to big pluralities of those whose first choice for president are Duterte (30 percent), Roxas (38 percent) and Binay (41 percent). Should Santiago back out from the race, her votes (33 percent) would go to Duterte, Pulse Asia said. VP race Meanwhile, Pulse Asia said Sen. Francis Escudero and Ferdinand Marcos Jr. remained statistically tied for the top spot in the vice-presidential race, with Escudero getting 25 percent and Marcos, 22 percent. Coming in third is LP vice presidential bet Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo with 21 percent, followed by Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano with 14 percent. Only six percent of registered voters do not have a first choice for vice president. Marcos enjoyed the support of 37 percent of Metro Manilans, while Robredo is the top pick among the Visayans (36 percent). Escudero and Marcos are the top choices for the post in the rest of Luzon (32 percent and 27 percent, respectively), Class ABC (19 percent and 33 percent, respectively) and Class D (27 percent and 23 percent, respectively).

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OpiniOn

Features

Job hunting

THE world today is characterized by intense global competition and rapid technological change. According to a human capital theory, economic development is a function of the quality of a nation’s education system. In other words: the more and better educated the people, the better the chances of reaching economic development. The key to success is a well-educated, technically skilled workforce producing high-value-added, knowledge-intensive goods and services. It is graduation season in the Philippines and up to 700,000 graduates are expected to join the nation’s labor market of 41 million. However, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) warned that these fresh graduates would have difficulty finding immediate employment due to the job-skills mismatch crisis in the country. “Out of the 4,239,392 domestic and international job vacancies offered in 3,686 year-round job fairs activities held in 2014 and 2015 nationwide, only 391,088 were hired on the spot out of the 1,286,073 applicants,” TUCP spokesman Alan Tanjusay said. He added that the job-skills mismatch crisis in the country has been going on -- and it continues to grow. Competition is escalating, so employers are putting additional qualifications in the job descriptions. Tanjusay also said that heightened competi-

tiveness in the job market -- with little or no adjustment on the part of the learning institutions -makes job hunting in the country worse than ever. According to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), out of every 1,000 job applicants, only 10 would likely be hired. The majority of the aspirants will not be able to penetrate the labor market and many will eventfully become part of the unemployed. Those who will fall through the cracks will seek better employment opportunities abroad. It is estimated that more that around 4,000 Filipinos leave the country to work abroad every day. The country has been internationally recognized for its diverse and talented human resources. The skills of Filipino workers continue to impress foreign employers, making more countries favor the quality of Filipino service. It is awe-inspiring that

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

Filipino workers are in demand and valued by other countries. However, it is also alarming that their own country cannot grant them the same opportunity. Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are glorified as modern heroes, but back home, the reasons why they left remain harsh realities.

With the impressive showing of the current economy, the protection and promotion of economic rights of all Filipino workers should be given appropriate actions. The government must continue to generate decent employment opportunities that will entice OFWs to come back or local employees to stay. (AJPress)

Is Donald Trump fostering divisiveness and violence in his presidential campaign? A WEEK before Super Tuesday 3 -- when five states were slated to The Fil-Am vote for the candidate whom they believe should be their party’s Perspective nominee for the next president of the United States -- Donald Trump has been criticized from the left, the right, and everyone else in between. The latest round Gel SantoS-ReloS of criticism comes after violent encounters had erupted during his campaign rallies between his supporters and those who are opposed to catapulting him to the highest post of the land. While candidates may not have direct control over how their supporters may act during campaign rallies, Trump’s detractors contend that the problem here was that it has been the billionaire reality show/real estate mogul’s rhetoric and attitude against those who oppose him. Even worse, they argue, his toxic regard and public statements against undocumented immigrants, Hispanics, Muslims have gone overboard, and have planted seeds of hatred and divisiveness among his supporters. His critics allege that Trump does not really promise to “Make America great again” if he becomes president, as his popular slogan goes.

What he is allegedly instilling in his avid fans is that “he will make America white again.” The Daily News even wrote that “the 2016 Republican frontrunner’s decision to push divisive rhetoric and policy has opened the door for an array of white supremacy groups, that suddenly feel emboldened and legitimized by Trump’s hateful bombast, to rejoin the national conversation.” Trump says he never condones violence, but his detractors say his hate speech and bold combative statements negate his statements, and do in fact, encourage violence among his supporters. Some of Trump’s statements were quoted by Vox: [1 February 2016, Iowa] “If you see somebody getting ready to throw a tomato, knock the crap out of them, would you? Seriously. Okay? Just knock the hell. I promise you I will pay for the legal fees. I promise.” [26 February 2016, Oklahoma] “In the good old days, they’d rip him out of that seat so fast. But today, everybody’s politically correct. Our country’s going to hell with being politically correct.” [29 February 2016, Virginia] “Get him out of

here please. Get him out. Get him out ... Are you from Mexico? Are you from Mexico? Huh? Are you from Mexico?” [4 March 2016, Michigan] “Get out of here. Get out. Out! ... This is amazing. So much fun. I love it. I love it. We having a good time? USA, USA, USA! ... All right, get him out. Try not to hurt him. If you do, I’ll defend you in court. Don’t worry about it ... We had four guys, they jumped on him, they were swinging and swinging. The next day, we got killed in the press — that we were too rough. Give me a break. You know? Right? We don’t want to be too politically correct anymore. Right, folks?” However, Trump’s supporters Donald Trump remain unfazed and continue to defend him by saying that that’s what they like about him: he is not a traditional politician. He is bold, unafraid and does not bother to be “politically correct,” and that he is the kind of leader that America “needs to get things done.” As of press time, Super Tuesday 3 is underway. We will see if Trump wins in crucial races that

could make him clinch the nomination of the Republican Party. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel. Santos.Relos

Did Grace Poe illegally use a dead person’s social security number in the US? WHY all the hassle over the two social se- Street curity numbers (SSN) allegedly used by Sen. Talk Grace Poe when she was living in the US? In the Philippines, there must be a lot of people who are paying GReG B. MacaBenta monthly social security premiums but can’t remember their SS numbers. This, aside from the fact that millions in our country don’t have social security coverage at all. But in the US, the SSN is a priceless code that you cannot afford to be without and you must know by heart. It serves as your virtual password to making major purchases such as a house or a car, dealing with financial institutions, securing government permits and licenses, and gaining access to restricted information, as well as being employed, being paid wages and receiving social security benefits. But you have to be in the US legally, either as a citizen or as a permanent resident (or green card holder). You may also be entitled to your own SSN if you are in the US legally but not allowed to work, such as a foreign student on an F-1, M-1 or J-1 visa. The SS card would bear the legend “Not valid for employment.” As a temporary visitor with a working visa, you could also secure your own SSN but it would bear the notation, “Valid for work with INS authorization.” Needless to say, a person with a questionable immigration status or a TNT (meaning Tago ng Tago – literally, “always hiding”) cannot legally have a social security number. The SSN is such a sensitive number

that you may refuse to divulge it to a private business entity or you may be asked for only “the last four digits” of the number. And in making a major purchase that requires revealing the SSN, you do it much like keying in a bank PIN – without anybody looking. Note that a person in the US may have his own SSN from birth. And everyone literally carries it to the grave - never to be used again. Thus, when that number appears in official records as having been used by someone other than the original bearer, that is a red flag. Using an illegal SSN carries a major risk because any enterprising individual, particularly a lawyer, journalist or private investigator, can do an online search and find out the identity of a person who has used a certain SSN. This appears to have been the case with Poe. Someone keenly interested in her personal background – presumably because of her candidacy for president – dug up not one but two SSNs attributed to her. One SSN appears to have been assigned to her in 1992 after she got married to a US citizen. The other one SSN 005-03-1998, according to online records, was released in Maine in the 1930s to a person who is either dead or is now well past his mid-90s (some online records refer to the person as deceased). Philippine Daily Tribune publishereditor, Ninez Cacho-Olivares, accepting a reported challenge of Poe for the journalist to come up with “proof”

concerning the illegal use of SSN 00503-1998 (as published in her paper’s March 7 issue), apparently did due diligence and came up with incriminating results: “The Tribune found evidence that independent presidential candidate Sen. Grace Poe and her husband Teodoro Llamanzares purchased a property in the State of Virginia in 2006 with the use of Poe’s spurious US Social Security Number (SSN).” Cacho-Olivares also wrote about other instances when the questionable SSN was used by a certain Llamanzares, Grace P: “More evidence of SSN-005-031988’s use -The records showed that it was first reported use for 2914 Post Office Box in Fairfax county in Merrifield, Virginia 22116-2914 on February 2, 1999; then at 129 Kingsley Rd SW, Vienna, Virginia in Fairfax county on June 1, 1999 and at 12021 Sunset Hills Rd Reston, Virginia on September 1, 1999. “It was last used at 42931 Shelbourne SQ, Chantilly, Virginia in Loudon county on May 1, 2006. “Grace Poe Llamanzares and her husband, Teodoro are listed as the owner of a home located at 42931 Shebourne Square. Chantilly, Virginia, with a listed amount of $420,000, with named residents Grace Poe Llamanzare (without an s), Mary Poe, Grace Poe, Teodoro Llamanzares and M. Llamanzares. The SSN used was SSN-005-03-1988, the dead person’s SSN.” When news of the spurious SSN first hit the newspapers, Poe’s spokesman dismissed it as a lie. He pointed out that the number happened to coincide

with the date that Poe enrolled at Boston College and that it was assigned to her as her college ID number. In fact, the Department of Homeland Security states the following: “Are you temporarily in the United States to attend a college, language, vocational, or nonacademic school with a non-immigrant F-1, M-1, or J1 student classification? Your school may ask you for your Social Security number. Some colleges and schools use Social Security numbers as student identification numbers. If you don’t have a Social Security number, the college or school should be able to give you another identification number.” Assuming that Poe enrolled at Boston College on a student visa, it is possible that the school asked her for her SSN and, having none, decided to assign her an ID number corresponding to her date of enrollment. But there are some problems with such an explanation. Firstly, would that mean that others who enrolled on that same date were also given the same ID number? Secondly – and this is the one most difficult to understand – why was that supposed ID number in her married name? Shouldn’t it have been in her maiden name, since she had not yet gotten married in 1998? Thirdly, why was SSN 005-03-1998 used several times by a person going by the name of Llamanzares, Grace P well after Poe had graduated from Boston College (in 1991)? It is common knowledge in America that many temporary visitors who decide to overstay find ways to secure a social security number. In flea markets in California, hawkers openly sell it (of course, keeping an eagle eye peeled

for immigration agents). Some of these numbers are, quite likely, those of deceased individuals. Others may be the fruits of identity theft. And still others may be random numbers dreamed up by vendors that coincide with genuine SSNs. Unless Poe can give a credible explanation for the uncanny coincidence of two SSNs being used by a person of the same name, then there certainly is something fishy, and it’s not in Navotas or Malabon. Of course, to many of Poe’s undying supporters, this may be a “so what?” issue. Aside from the fact that we Pinoys tend to be loyal to our idols, whether right or wrong, there must be thousands in our country who have relatives in America using illegal SSNs. So what’s the big deal? Could that be the reason why the major newspapers like Philippine Daily Inquirer and Philippine Star, have not bothered to write about this matter (except for one single PDI story about the insistence of Poe’s spokesman that the Tribune report was untrue). Perhaps they think that a possible case of identity theft by someone aspiring to become president of the Philippine is not important enough. But to US authorities, it is a big deal. Using another person’s SSN is a felony and subject to a stiff fine and imprisonment. This problem could hound Poe for many years, whether or not she is allowed to run for president or whether or not she wins the presidency. Note that in the US, an unpaid parking ticket can hound a recalcitrant all the way to the grave. (gregmacabenta@hotmail.com)

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LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • MARCH 16-18, 2016

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Pulse: Poe retains lead as Duterte… PAGE A5 t

On the other hand, the leading vice presidential bets in Mindanao and Class E are Cayetano (25 percent and 17 percent, respectively), Escudero (20 percent and 23 percent, respectively), Robredo (17 percent and 22 percent, respectively) and Marcos (16 percent and 19 percent, respectively). Alternative VP bets A little over a quarter of those with a first choice for vice president or 26 percent named Escudero as their alternative candidate for the post if their original choice does not continue his or her candidacy. Three candidates shared second place namely, Marcos (16 percent), Cayetano (15 percent) and Robredo (13 percent). Trillanes and Honasan obtained basically the same single-digit second-choice voter preferences (eight percent and six percent, respectively). The rest of registered voters (16 percent) are not inclined to name a second choice for vice president. Escudero registered the highest second-choice voter preferences in the rest of Luzon (30 percent) and Class D (26 percent). In Mindanao and Class E, the highest second-choice voter preferences are Escudero (24 percent and 25 percent, respectively) and Cayetano (both at 20 percent). Among Metro Manilans, the leading alternative vice presidential bets are Escudero (24 percent), Marcos (22 percent) and Robredo (12 percent), but around the same percentage of voters (20 percent) are not inclined to

shift their support to any other vice presidential bet. In the Visayas, Escudero (21 percent), Cayetano (18 percent) and Robredo (16 percent) are the top second choices for the post while nearly a quarter (24 percent) did not name an alternative vice presidential bet. As for those in Class ABC, practically the same percentages either chose Escudero (26 percent), Cayetano (19 percent), Marcos (17 percent) or Robredo (15 percent) as their alternative candidate or do not have a second choice for vice president (12 percent). In the event that Escudero withdraws from the vice presidential race, almost the same percentages of his supporters would instead vote for Robredo (20 percent), Marcos (19 percent) or Cayetano (18 percent), Pulse Asia said. In the case of Trillanes’ original voters, their top second choices for vice president are Escudero (21 percent) and Robredo (19 percent). Senate race In the senatorial race, former senator Francis Pangilinan dislodged Sen. Vicente Sotto III at first place, garnering 53.1 percent voter preference in the March 2016 poll. Sotto obtained 48.9 percent and was ranked second to fourth places; followed by Senate President Franklin Drilon (45.5 percent; second to fifth places); former senator Panfilo Lacson (45.1 percent, second to fifth places); and Sen. Ralph Recto (42.5 percent, third to fifth places). Former senator Juan Miguel Zubiri received 36.5 percent and

Based on the Pulse Asia poll taken from March 1 to 6, Sen. Grace Poe was the top choice for president, getting the support of 28 percent of 2,600 registered voters. On the other hand, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte received 24 percent voter preference in March, up from 22 percent in February. Philstar.com/File

was ranked sixth to ninth places); followed by Sen. Sergio Osmeña III (36.4 percent, sixth to ninth places); former senator Richard Gordon (34.8 percent, sixth to 11th places); and former Akbayan Party lawmaker Risa Hontiveros (33.3 percent, sixth to 11th places). World boxing icon and Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao (32.7 percent) and former justice secretary Leila de Lima (32.1 percent) shared the eighth to 11th places. Sharing the 12th to 1fourth places are former Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) director general Joel Villanueva (28 percent); Sen. Teofisto Guingona III (26.3 percent), and Valenzuela City Rep. Sherwin Gatchalian (25.6 percent). Pulse Asia’s nationwide survey has a margin of error of plus or minus 1.9 percentage points at the 95 percent confidence level. Gaining ground Duterte yesterday said he is not bothered by his ratings in recent poll surveys as the numbers are changing every now and then. He was referring to the Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey where he ranked fourth and the Pulse Asia survey commissioned by ABS-CBN where he ranked second. “I don’t want to talk because the numbers have changed again. At the end of the day, I will be your last card,” Duterte said. He stood firm that the real survey will happen on May 9 when the Filipino people will vote for who they want to lead the country. Mayor Leoncio Jun Evasco, Duterte’s campaign manager, however, said the Pulse Asia survey reinforces their observation that their camp is continuously gaining ground. Binay core group solid For his part, Binay is unperturbed by the results of the latest Pulse Asia presidential preference survey, showing him dipping to third place. “Different surveys, different results but the core support of the Vice President remains solid,” Binay’s campaign spokesman Rico Quicho said. Political analysts say Binay has a solid core support or political base consisting of the voters who have made up their mind to support him no matter what. (With reports from Robertzon Ramirez, Edith Regalado and Paolo Romero)

RECYCLED PLASTIC WASTES. Senator Cynthia A. Villar gives sturdy schools chairs made from recycled plastic wastes to various schools in the country. Aside from helping the government solve the problem on the lack of school chairs, the project also helps in maintaining a clean and healthy environment. Las Pinas Elementary School and Las Pinas School Central are the latest beneficiaries of the plastic chairs. Senate photo

Former US VP Al Gore to Pinoys: Continue ‘moral crusade’ vs coal by Alexis

RomeRo Philstar.com

MANILA — Former United States vice president and environmental activist Al Gore on Monday, March 14, urged sectors demanding government action on climate change to continue what he described as a “moral struggle” amid the Philippines’s continued support for coal-fired power plants. Gore compared the climate movement to those who fought for the abolition of slavery, civil rights and the right of women to vote, saying such advocacies faced stiff resistance before they succeeded. “Every great moral struggle in the history of humanity has met with no after no after no until finally when the question is ultimately resolved in a simple binary choice between what is right is what is wrong. The outcome became pre-ordained because of who we are as human beings,” Gore said during a two-hour lecture he delivered during the Climate Reality Leadership Corps Training in Pasay. “That is where the climate movement is today. There have been no’s after no’s after nos. People have tried to confused the issue people have tried to cloud the issue,” he added. “But now because of the impacts of climate-related extreme weather and because of our understanding of what is happening, it has become a simple choice between what is right and what is wrong.”

Gore, founder of the non-profit group Climate Reality Project, said people should pressure their leaders to act on climate change despite efforts by skeptics to muddle the issue. “A people’s movement from grassroots up (is needed) to confront the decision-makers for decision and leaders in making a choice for yes instead of no or right instead of wrong,” the former US vice president said. “There are some who still doubt that we have the will to act but always remember, the will to act is in itself a renewable resource,” he added. Gore noted that the Philippines is planning to build more coal plants despite the global shift to clean energy. “We hope we will have an impact on this,” he said. President Aquino is drawing flak from environment groups for allowing the construction of new coal-fired power plants, which has neem blamed for global warming. The Philippine Movement for Climate Justice claimed the Aquino administration has been “deaf, mute and blind” to the impact of coal to communities. The government has justified the construction of coal-fired power plants, citing the high costs of renewable energy and limited technology that impede the harnessing of renewables. Gore noted that while the Philippines experienced the most number of weather-related disasters in almost two decades, it remains a laggard in terms of

using clean energy. He noted that 328 weather-related major events struck the country from 1994 to 2013. However, the Philippines remains largely dependent on coal, the burning of which has been linked to climate change and extreme weather conditions. Gore noted that coal constituted 29 percent of the Philippines’ energy mix in 2014. Oil made up 23 percent of the mix while hydroelectric and natural gas cornered 18 percent and 14 percent, respectively. Geothermal comprised 10 percent of the mix while waste heat constituted four percent. Solar, wind and biomass, meanwhile, only comprised 2 percent of the Philippine energy mix. Gore encouraged the Philippines to explore opportunities in solar energy, saying it is cheap and environment-friendly. “It (solar energy) does not create pollution global warming, does not require any fuel. It’s all good – except the coal companies do not like it,” he added. Gore said the cost of carbon is hefty as it can result in floods and mudslides, wildfires, drought, ecosystem loss, famine, water scarcity and sea level rise. He said climate change is also the “number one threat to global economy.” “The need to act is indisputable,” Gore said. “We can get rid of dirty fossil fuel. We need to put a price on carbon in the markers and put a price on denial in politics,” he added. n

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BUSINESSJ& COMMUNITY ournal

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PH to pilot inventor program by Kristyn

niKa M. ManilaTimes.net

Lazo

AN international inventor assistance program is giving Filipino inventors access to free legal advice on international patents (IP) that protects every invention across the Trade Secretary Adrian Cristobal Jr. globe. In a statement, Trade Secretary Adrian Cristobal Jr. lauded the decision of the World Economic Forum (WEF) and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to include the Philippines as one of the pilot countries under a joint initiative—the Inventor Assistance Program (IAP). Cristobal has met with WIPO officials, including Deputy Director General John Sandage, to discuss the mechanics of IAP, whose membership is open to developing countries and patent attorneys who accept the guiding principles of the program. “I recall as early as 2005, during my term as Director General of IPOPHL [Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines], we already saw the importance of making IP relevant to the economic well being of the country. These programs will encourage Filipino inventors to bring their technologies to the world,” Cristobal said.

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AARP foundation tax-aide provides free tax assistance and preparation WASHINGTON, D.C. — This year, AARP Foundation is again providing free tax assistance and preparation for taxpayers with low- to moderate- income through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, in its 48th year, is the nation’s largest free tax assistance and preparation service, giving special attention to the older population. Taxpayers do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use this service. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has more than 5,000 locations in neighborhood libraries, malls, banks, community centers and senior centers. There’s no fee and no sales pitch for other services and AARP membership is

With new government leaders coming in this year along with the increasing number of university-produced talents, IT and Business Process Association Philippines (IBPAP) chairman Danilo Sebastian Reyes said there is an opportunity for the Philippines to dethrone India as the IT-BPM servicing leader in the world. Philstar.com file photo by richMond

s. Mercurio

Philstar.com

not required. Some locations offer assistance in additional languages, including Chinese, Tagalog, Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese. “Our bilingual volunteers generously give their time to help taxpayers who don’t speak English or speak English as a second language prepare their returns,” said Daphne Kwok, AARP Vice President of Multicultural Leadership, Asian American and Pacific Islander Audience Strategy. “We need more bilingual volunteers so if you can help translate, please join our Tax-Aide volunteer team so that we can expand our services to Asian American & Pacific Islander communities.”

MANILA – The Philippines is confident of becoming the world’s biggest market for information technology-business process management (IT-BPM) on the back of continued government support and more quality talents in the local labor force. “We are pretty much top two, top three in the IT-BPM servicing market in the world,

hence why we have always been known as the destination of choice for IT-BPM services,” IT and Business Process Association Philippines (IBPAP) chairman Danilo Sebastian Reyes told The STAR in an interview. With new government leaders coming in this year along with the increasing number of university-produced talents, Reyes said there is an opportunity for the Philippines to dethrone India as the IT-BPM servicing leader in the world.

“We can definitely maintain our position because of the continuing partnership between the industry which is represented by IBPAP, the government, and the academe together with the roadmap we are implementing and we will be developing. So I think we should be able to sustain, if not improve our position,” Reyes said. “We’ve got the momentum, we have the credibility in the global market and certainly

u PAGE B2

Max’s back to profitability by doris

duMLao-abadiLLa Inquirer.net

CASUAL dining chain operator Max’s Group Inc. (MGI) returned to profitability in 2015 after the housecleaning and consolidation undertaken following its acquisition of Pancake House Inc. MGI chalked up a net income of P501.4 million in 2015, reversing the

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LOS ANGELES

TAIPEI

net loss of P66.2 million in the previous year, the company reported to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Tuesday, March 15. Excluding one-time gains and nonrecurring charges, core net income stood at P555 million. On a pro-forma basis, revenues grew by 6 percent to P10.4 billion deliberate closures to rationalize store network

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AARP foundation tax-aide provides free…

PAGE B1 t

In 2015, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide’s 35,000 volunteers have provided 2.6 million people with free tax help. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers are trained and IRS-certified each year to ensure their knowledge of revisions to the U.S. tax code. Taxpayers who used AARP Foundation Tax-Aide received $1.3 billion in income tax refunds and more than $250 million in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCs). For more information on documents to bring to the tax site or to locate an AARP Foundation Tax-Aide site, visit www. aarp.org/findtaxhelp or call 1-888-AARPNOW (1-888-2277669). AARP Foundation TaxAide is offered in conjunction with the IRS. About AARP Foundation AARP Foundation is working to win back opportunity for struggling Americans 50+ by being a force for change on the

we have the people to deliver quality service,” he added. But to be the world’s top market, Reyes said the country needs to address the industry’s biggest challenge to date which is the quality volume of talents coming in to the industry. “If we are able to marry what are the actual industry requirements for employees and those that are being produced by the universities then the growth path of the industry will continue to be met simply because you have the right talent coming into the industry,” he said. The IBPAP official said the service management program developed together with the Commission on Higher Educa-

PAGE B1 t

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unique needs of those 50+ while working with local organizations nationwide to reach more people and make resources go further. AARP Foundation is a charitable affiliate of AARP. Learn more at www.aarpfoundation.org. n

tion and state universities is expected to help in developing ready talents coming out of the university systems and become IT-BPO employees. “If we are able to produce from the university system and increase the yield from the 500,000 university graduates that we have a year, then that would fuel the growth of the industry,” Reyes said. Aside from more quality talents, Reyes said IBPAP is also calling for continued government support by making sure the incentive programs to retain and attract the companies operating and interested to invest in the Philippines remain. He said the industry is confident in receiving the government’s backing regardless as to who wins

in the upcoming elections. “We don’t have concern per se because most of the candidates are always supportive of the industry. We remain steadfast in terms of our request to any administration both from the executive and the legislative to support the industry whether through programs that will help supply talent to the industry or laws that will make us competitive through incentives, data privacy, and other laws that will be supportive and laws that will not prevent or restrict the growth of the industry,” Reyes said. “Any changing environment from the government incentives standpoint will always have also an effect on investment appetite,” he added. n

PH to pilot inventor…

Sandage said the IAP will provide free legal advice from patent attorneys to inventors from member countries to protect their inventions. He said the legal advice will help lessen the cost of filing patent applications. The IAP was launched by WEF and WIPO in Colombia last year. It aims to make the IP system more accessible to cash-strapped inventors of technologies and concepts that show much potential. The WIPO deputy director said

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA

PH aims to become biggest IT-BPM…

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http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

the IAP will help inventors or small companies by linking them to patent attorneys. Governments that are have become IAP members are expected to actively participate in the local implementation and creation of an IAP program that meets the local needs and practice of inventors and qualified IP counsel in their respective countries, as well as help in the domestic promotion of the IAP. Sandage said the Philippines is among the first three countries that qualified to be a member

of IAP. The two other member countries are Colombia and Morocco. Cristobal said the government has been coping well with the changes in the Philippine IP system in the last 15 years. “From a purely regulatory agency, it has evolved into one that espouses an orientation that capitalizes on the development aspects of IP,” he said. WIPO has long been the country’s partner in the country’s aim to make its IP on a par with global standards, he added. n

I CAME across an email message from a legitimate contact telling a sad story and asking for emergency money in a faroff land. I googled some phrases and sure enough, it was a scam. Out it went with the spam trash. My take on this: my contact’s email was breached and his contact list hacked. This is one of the reasons I am loath to forward emails sent by well-meaning friends, no matter how funny. What is amazing is that people have been victimized by this scam all over the world when a few keystrokes would have verified it and a bit of common sense would have raised one’s suspicions. There are rough estimates of $183 million per year on average that have been scammed from the unsuspecting on the internet. The figure could be more since a big percentage of people will not admit to being conned. The electronic age has brought us wonders and unbelievable convenience defying space/time constraints and accomplishing things we can only do in previous times if we were physically present in one place. With an internet connection, we can do great and wonderful things that were the stuff of science fiction not so long ago. But there is a sinister side to the internet. And it gets darker as moral turpitude appears to be on the rise and our capacity to be shocked is diminished with every jaw-dropping crime. There was a time when crime was met

Max’s back…

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and improve overall profitability. Restaurant sales increased by 6 percent to P8.6 billion, driven by additional company-owned and franchised outlets in 2015. As a result, commissary sales rose by 2 percent to P1.3 billion while franchise income increased by 37 percent to P497.5 million. “The results validate a complete turnaround of our business. From a transformative period in 2014, we have successfully transitioned to the growth phase. We are confident with our strategies to sustain this trajectory in the coming years,” said Trota. n

Tips on scam-proofing yourself “There is a sucker born every nanosecond.”

—A play on a quote mistakenly ascribed to circus impresario, P.T. Barnum

with swift and appropriate punishment. For as long as the laws which were structured in the past cannot keep up with these phenomenon of cyber crimes, it is in our best interest to learn how to become savvy net users and defend ourselves from the onslaught that comes electronically. The amount of available crud (translate that to disgusting things like porn, scams and gambling and some such variation of evil) on the net is staggering. In the book I wrote, there is a chapter dedicated on avoiding the pitfalls of scams and the schemes of con artists designed to separate you from your hard-earned money. This time, the level of sophistication is up several notches higher as unemployment and the current economic morass worldwide is driving people to desperation. If we are internet users, we are all at risk, unless and until we take the necessary psychological precautions to deal with this and become relatively “scam proof.” No one is sacrosanct. These scams are designed to prey upon two basic weaknesses ingrained in our DNA wiring as humans: GREED and FEAR. Here’s one blanket caveat to keep us on our toes about how lottery scams and cons play out in cyberspace. REMEMBER — and I can’t emphasize this often enough, on this matter, and perhaps, other significant areas of life — IF IT’S TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE, IT PROBABLY IS. Okay, repeat that as your mantra. The scams that feed on greed are so sophisticated that they can send a seemingly authentic check by mail from a real bank with so many zeroes on it. If you bite at the first overture, they then ask for a processing fee from you for you to get the rest of the winnings. This is called the Nigerian scam apparently because the first perpetrators allegedly were well educated but destitute Nigerians who found that their facility for the English language could be exploited to scam millions using the internet. The scam has spread and morphed with mind-boggling

variations but with only one nefarious purpose — to separate you from your money. No one race or culture has the monopoly on these. These can originate anywhere in the world. I have had mine come in purportedly from G8 as well as impoverished countries. If you have not consciously joined any lottery, why in heaven’s name would you think you have a snowball’s chance in hell of winning even one thin dime? Also, legitimate lotteries will NEVER, repeat NEVER, ask you for money in order for a winner to claim a prize. Some scams feed on your fear. One of the most deceptive things is to receive an email from your bank instructing you to click on a link and verify your information since someone supposedly is accessing your account and if you don’t verify your information, particularly your pin number or password, this can result in a temporary hold on your funds. The modern term for this is “phishing” which refers to the activity of defrauding an online account holder of financial information by posing as a legitimate company. I received one of these phishing calls which had a legitimate ID on the caller ID asking us to call a number and even left a reference number claiming to check on some gas card purchases. I told her I need to verify if her call is legitimate. I detected a hint of dejection in her response. Sure enough, a check on the phone number she left indicated it was a phishing call. No legitimate financial entity will ask you for financial information online. Cut scammers off at the knees with the simple expediency of calling the fraud unit of your bank or credit card company yourself. Take the bull by the horns. Generate the call. Get the telephone number from your statement or your card and DO NOT CALL THE NUMBER that the caller or e-mailer provided you with. It’s a trap. If it is an email, hit the spam button and empty the trash. Don’t just delete it. Sure, they will morph into another form but be proactive and make it more

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Debt Relief Atty. LAwrence yAng Senior seeks chapter 13 protection for fully paid house CLIENT is a young senior in his early 60’s who took an early retirement last year. He owes $15K of credit card debt and nothing else. He has a community property house that is fully paid with a current market value of $500K. Fortunately, for client, he did not refinance his fully paid house with a mortgage, so the house does not secure any mortgage. Certainly, client must have been tempted often to get some cash out from a refinance at low interest. Good for him that he did not succumb to that temptation; otherwise, he would still be paying on a new mortgage now. His wife is also taking early retirement next year. I asked why he took an early retirement at 62. He said he doesn’t know how long he is going to live, so he might as well take early retirement so at least he gets his social security now even if its less by 25% compared to full age retirement at 66. Since he used to work as a professional for some time, I asked him if he had a pension from the employer. He said no and social security of $1,200 is all that he has now. The problem is that he still owes $15K of credit card debt, which he has not been able to pay for 6 months because of his reduced income from social security. He used to pay about $600 a month to keep them current but he just could not get the principal down from $15K. He wanted to do a Chapter 7 to wipe out the $15K. I asked him if he owned a house and what the current value was. He said he owned a house worth about $500K. I asked him if he owed anything on the house. He said he owed nothing on it anymore. So I told him that he could not do a Chapter 7 because in Chapter 7, he would lose his house. The trustee would take his house and sell it, give him $175K use the rest to pay his credit card debt of $15K, give him the rest of the sale proceeds after deducting trustee fees which could be sky high. It doesn’t make sense, in his case to do Chapter 7. Why lose your house for $15K of credit card debt. But then again, his house does need protection from his credit card debt. He is now behind by 6 months. This means

Community Journal

Senior seeks chapter 13 protection for fully paid house from $15K credit cards Client seeks chapter 7 discharge for $30K credit cards

that lawsuits for collection are forthcoming. Lawsuits will eventually become judgments. Judgments eventually become liens on his house. A $15K judgment will double in a couple of years. Soon enough, there will be a $60K judgment lien on his house. And, the worst part is that judgment creditors can ask the court to have his house sold to satisfy the judgment lien! This means he can lose his $500K house for $15K of credit card debt. It’s sounds unfair, but it certainly may happen if the problem is left to fester without an effective solution. I told him that he could do a Chapter 13 without any risk of losing his house to the trustee because Chapter 13 trustees, unlike Chapter 7 trustees, do not have the power to sell debtor houses. In a Chapter 13, he can pay off the $15K over 5 years without interest; just the principal is being paid. He’s looking at a plan payment of $250/mo. To $300/ mo. including court and trustee administrative fees. This is a lot less than the $600 that he used to pay which did nothing to reduce the principal of $15K in the last 20 years. Under the plan, debtor will have zero credit card debt when he turns 68. And the best part is, the Chapter 13 protects his fully paid house by preventing lawsuits and judgment liens from attaching to his house. Credit card debts are like weeds that keep on growing and growing. In a month, a weed can grow a foot, while normal plants take so much time to grow. The most effective way of getting rid of weeds is to uproot them. If you just cut them at the base, in a month they look like they were never cut. This is the same, as client’s credit card debt of $15K, which he has paid for 20 years, yet now still owes the same amount. In a year, he paid $7,200. He thought that would cut his debt in half and it would disappear. But credit cards are like weeds; they keep growing back, unless you uproot them. Debtor’s Chapter 13 will uproot his credit card debt and pay them off completely in 60

months so they don’t grow back again. Smart decision on client’s part, I have to say, because some people just do not have the courage to make the right decision. Client seeks chapter 7 relief to discharge $30K credit cards Client is 48, married, no children. He owns a home with $55K of equity. He bought his house 3 years ago with 3% down, so his equity has increased somewhat but still within homestead exemption of $75K. He has a live in girlfriend, and I don’t know if she qualifies as a family member that would increase his exemption to $100K. In any event, $55K is $20K less than $75K so the house is secure and protected. His problem is $30K of credit cards, which he has been paying for 5 years, at $1K minimum monthly just to keep them current. Do the math. He’s paid $60K to keep $30K of cards current for 5 years, and he still owes the same amount of $30K. Doesn’t seem fair. But that’s the way cards work. Just like weeds, they keep growing, nonstop. But since he now has a mortgage to pay, he having a hard time making the minimum payment of $1K a month for the cards. The choice he has now is to either pay the mortgage or pay the cards. It’s a no brainer. Get rid of the cards, to assure payment of the mortgage. At least, the house appreciates in value over time and home ownership is the American dream, while credit card debt is the American nightmare that sucks up your net income every month, every year. His choice is Chapter 7 to protect his house and discharge the $30K of credit cards. “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” — John 15:4 *** Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in bankruptcy, business, real estate and civil litigation and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 1000 S. Fremont Ave, Mailstop 58, Building A-1 Suite 1125, Alhambra, CA 91803. (Advertising Supplement)

LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • MARCH 16-18, 2016

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Foreign bank and financial accounts (FBAR-FinCEN Form 114)

What’s New ArLene AL-os, cPA, MBA SHOULD you report the accounts to the U.S. government if you have offshore bank accounts? Yes, if at any time during the year the aggregate balances exceed $10,000. What if you already had the accounts before you left for the U.S.? Yes, you should. There is a rationale why our government wants to know: fight terrorism, avert tax evasion, and combat money laundering. If you are not accountable of any of these conducts, then you have nothing to worry about. There is no harm, no foul in filing the report. But if you don’t file, there are penalties. Read on and learn about FBAR. What is FBAR: It is a Report of Foreign Bank & Financial Accounts on FinCen Form 114 (was Form TD F 90-22.1). What is FinCEN: Financial Crimes Enforcement Network was established by the U.S. Department of the Treasury as a resources of bringing information and people together to fight problem of money laundering. Purpose of FBAR: FBAR filings in conjunction with suspicious activity reports, and other currency transaction reports are used by FinCEN to give law enforcement and regulators helpful information to fight against mon-

ey laundering and other financial crime. Who Must File the FBAR: A United States person must efile new FinCen form 114 (used to be form TD F 90-22.1) if that person has signature authority over or financial interest in any financial accounts in a foreign country and the combined value of these accounts exceeds $10,000 at any time during the calendar year, must report that relationship to the U.S. government each calendar year. Certain individuals with signature authority only, filing deferral is effective through April 15, 2017 FinCEN Notice 2015-1. Definition of a United States Person: • A domestic corporation, domestic partnership, or limited liability companies organized in the U.S. • A trust or estate formed under the laws of the U.S. • A citizen or resident of the United States. Definition of Foreign Financial Accounts: • Securities accounts such as brokerage accounts, securities derivatives, and mutual funds. • Bank accounts such as checking accounts, time deposits, and savings accounts. • Accounts where assets are

Calendar of Events across

held in a commingled fund that is a mutual fund. • Insurance policies with cash value i.e. whole life • And are located outside the United States, Guam, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, District of Columbia, Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Trust Territories of the Pacific Islands Examples of Financial Interest: • Mark, a US citizen, left bank accounts of more than $10,000 in Nicaragua. He must file FBAR. • Same scenario as above except that Mark is a US resident (not a US citizen). He must file FBAR. Reporting for Joint Accounts: • A spouse who has a joint financial interest in an account with the filing spouse should be included as a joint account owner and he or she does not need to file a separate FBAR. • If several persons each own a partial interest in an account, or if two persons jointly maintain an account, then each U.S. person has a financial interest in that account and each person must file an FBAR. • If the filer’s spouse has separate accounts, that spouse must file a separate FBAR for all of the accounts, including those owned

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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 M A R C H 1 8 -1 9

5th Statewide Disabilities Conference Agencies, service providers and caretakers, community organizations, consumers, jobseekers, families…please join us for the California Statewide Disabilities Conference from March 18-19, 2016 at The Westin Pasadena hotel (191 N. Los Robles Ave, Pasadena, CA). Expert panels/sessions/topics to be discussed include special education for those with disabilities, autism, assistive technology, ACA/Health, civil rights, mental health, financial wellness, discrimination, employment benefits, college supportive services, transition to adulthood, and outreach to the diverse Asian American - Pacific Islander community. This event is sponsored by the Asian & Pacific Islanders with Disabilities of California (APIDC), giving a voice and face to Asians and Pacific Islanders with disabilities, and improving access to resources for API families. APIDC has hosted four major conferences in California. The conference will also include social service agencies, and exhibitors/representatives such as educators, attorneys, and health care providers. Special gift giveaways and raffle prizes are available to all registered conference attendees. For registration and more information (including scholarships) about the conference, please contact Jamie Hwang at 714-4033188, APIDC@gmail.com, and visit www.apidisabilities.net.

MARCH 19

CSFLU 26th Anniversary The City of San Fernando La Union, headed by Vickie Balcita-Neri, will celebrate their 26th Anniversary on March 19, 2016 at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Brea (900 E Birch St, Brea, CA 9282). Music will be provided by The Midnight Motion Band. For invitation and other questions, please call Vangie So at (626) 485-3110.

MARCH 20

2016 Piyesta Pinoy Chicago Sunday, March 20 from 11:45am to 4:00pm is the Philippine Celebration (Piyesta Pinoy sa Chicago), as part of the Neighborhoods of the World series at Navy Pier’s Crystal Gardens (Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. Chicago, IL). Come travel to the Philippines without ever leaving your backyard! This cultural celebration is free and open to the public of all ages. Join us and enjoy an afternoon of lively folk music, special performances, traditional dance, cuisine, arts and crafts. The Philippine American Cultural Foundation (PACF) and thevibrant Filipino community of Chicago is so proud to put on this event for the 5th year in a row, and Piyesta Pinoy is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our culture with our people.For more information, or to volunteer, perform, exhibit, or donate, please visitwww. piyestapinoy.net, or email Piyestpinoy@gmail.com.

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com

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Tips on scam-proofing…

difficult for them. These scams are like viruses or shape shifters and can mutate faster than the speed of light. PC users are more vulnerable to spammers/ scammers and pesky pop-ups than Mac users. But this too can change. C’est la vie. Is there karmic justice? Because con artists rarely ever see the faces of their victims or know the full extent of the damage that they wreak on real people with real lives, these crimes seem impersonal in nature and rarely, if ever, do con artists get their comeuppance. Translate that to jail time or some form of punishment, like being exposed to an anthill, boiled in oil or tickled to oblivion… Just kidding of course… Con artists should be happy we no longer live in Medieval Times. Often, these scammers are based overseas outside of any jurisdiction. The wheels of justice grind ponderously, exceedingly slow and you sometimes wonder if crime stoppers and society in general, would ever catch up with this distinct phenomenon of the interesting times we live in. If you think only the “little people” are at risk, think again. Governments and institutions have become easy targets for sophisticated, often juvenile hackers. Cyber crime has reached daunting proportions and has reached the

institutional level. Supposedly uber secure websites such as that of the CIA, NSA, FBI, Scotland Yard, the US Congress and mega-corporations like Sony, Nintendo, Citibank and a host of others have recently been either hacked or brought to a halt from the comforts of a teen-ager’s bedroom. A few years ago, a 19 year old, baby-faced, reclusive boy from England named Ryan Cleary, is alleged to have been responsible for bringing down the websites of the CIA and Scotland Yard. The teener stayed glued to his computer holed up all day in his room filled with posters of scantily clad women. The upside to be gleaned from such high-level security breaches is that this exposes the weaknesses of such websites. It also shows how vulnerable we all are. The electronic security industry sees the potential of a business that can change the architecture of the internet by piping the flow of information. For government operatives to use unsecured email to conduct top secret operations is like dangling fresh bait to a sea of sharks. Clearly, these breaches, like Julian Assange’s wikileaks, are not for monetary gain but for the notoriety and the bragging rights of being a once lowly unknown gnat bringing down behemoths.

The motive is deeply rooted in probably what Andy Warhol once said in 1968, “In the future, everyone will be world famous for 15 minutes.” But those big holes are for the big boys to plug. As for the ordinary cyber citizens, simply proceed with caution when online. In cyber matters, a healthy dose of cynicism and a smidgen of common sense work as well as an ounce of prevention. Be on guard. Better yet, UNPLUG for long stretches from Facebook or any other social media or from following inane and insane celebrity tweets on Twitter and strive to live in the REAL WORLD. Grill mouthwatering salmon steaks brushed with butter and sprinkled with lemon juice or create panini sandwiches on your grill pan. Dance like mad, with or without a partner in private or in a dance hall. Take time to sip your tea or tend to your garden in the spring. Laugh with the kids. Log off for long stretches of time and create something that will make your heart glad. Get back and live in the real world rather than the virtual world. It is our way of affirming that indeed, life is for living. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com

B MARCH 16-18, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL

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Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes CALIFORNIA law on the nature of spouses’ rights and obligations with respect to management and control of community property has evolved over the last thirty years from less stringent “good faith” standards to heightened “confidential duty” and “fiduciary duty’ standards. Under current law, the duties owed between spouses in transactions between themselves are the same highest duties owed by parties to a fiduciary relationship. The heightened standard with regard to transactions between spouses is codified in Family Code Sec. 721(b). The section provides that “in transactions between themselves, a husband and wife are subject to the general rules governing fiduciary relationships which control the actions of persons occupying confidential relations with each other. This confidential relationship imposes a duty of the highest good faith and fair dealing on each spouse, and neither shall take any unfair advantage of the other.” Incidental to this fiduciary relationship is a rebuttable presumption of undue influence when one spouse obtains an advantage over the other in a community property transaction--i.e. when one spouse improves his/ her position, obtains a favorable opportunity, or otherwise gains, benefits or profits in a community property transaction to the exclusion of the other. Marriage of Haines (1995) 33 CA4th 277, 297, 39 CR2d 673, 686. This presumption arises in connection with any interspousal property transaction in which one spouse obtained an advantage over the

Community Journal

The presumption of ‘undue influence’ in transactions between spouses during the marriage other. It is important to note that the presumption arises even if the transaction at issue did not result from fraud, deceit or coercion. Marriage of Mathews (2005) 133 CA4th 624, 629-630, 35 CR3d 1, 4. The spouse favored by such a transaction has the burden of rebutting the presumption of undue influence. To rebut the presumption, he/she must show that the other spouse entered into the transaction freely and voluntarily, with full knowledge of all the facts, and with a complete understanding of its effect. Marriage of Delaney (2003) 111 CA4th 991, 996-997, 4 CR3d 378, 382. If the spouse who benefited from the transaction fails to demonstrate the foregoing, the transaction may be ignored. A classic example of this situation is when a husband executes a quitclaim deed in favor of his wife as her separate property. Generally that fully executed Quit Claim would have the effect of changing the character of the property from community to his wife’s separate property based on another presumption called “presumption of title” under evidence code section 662 and the under a the theory of “transmutation” pursuant to family code section 852., Evidence Code Section 662 presumption of title states that “the owner of the legal title to property is presumed to be the owner of the full beneficial title. This presumption may be rebutted only by clear and convincing proof. However, because of the presumption of undue influence under family code section 721(b), the wife has the burden to overcome the presumption in order to effect a change in the

character of the property from community to separate. If the wife does not meet the burden, then the court can set aside the quit claim deed based on a presumption that such transfer was made with undue influence. Each spouse’s fiduciary obligations toward the other spouse under Family Code Sec. 721(b) continue after separation in anticipation of dissolution, nullity or legal separation until the date of distribution of the community asset or liability in question. Family Code Sec. 2102(a) and (b). Accordingly, if you have made an interspousal transaction benefiting your spouse during the marriage such as executing a quit claim and you are contemplating filing a divorce, it is advised that you consult with an experienced attorney to determine what avenues of relief you may take to set aside the transaction. *** 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) 388-1611 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)

Foreign bank and financial accounts…

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jointly with the spouse. Recordkeeping: FBAR records should be kept for five years from the due date of the report which is the 30th of June of the following calendar year. The records should contain the following: • Name and address of the foreign bank. • Name and address of other person with whom the account is maintained. • Type of account and maximum value of each account dur-

ing the reporting period. • Name maintained on each account and number or other designation of the account. Penalties for Failure to Report Foreign Accounts: • Should you fail to comply with FBAR rules, you may be subject to criminal penalties, civil penalties, or both. • Civil penalty for failure to file an FBAR can be up to the greater of $100,000 or 50% of the total balance of the foreign account at the time of the viola-

tion. Ouch! In accordance with IRS Circular 230, this communication is not to be considered a “covered opinion” or other written tax advice and should not be relied upon for IRS audit, tax dispute, or any other purpose. ***

Sy Al-os Accountancy Corporation provides accounting and tax services to individuals, corporations, LLCs and business entities. The Firm has a niche in defending taxpayers audited by the IRS and other governmental agencies. (Advertising Supplement)

LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • MARCH 16-18, 2016

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People and Events

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATORS. Rev. Dr. Mario Crisostomo (extreme left) prayed over the birthday celebrators for February at Pat Nixon Center in Cerritos. Other birthday celebrators from left include ABC Board Member Lynda Johnson, Margie Arellano, Adoracion Arino and Mimi Edralin. Other members who are pictured are Emma Chupinghong, Gloria Melo, Doris Magajes and Ed Nalundasan Yu as well as other guests. The huge cake was donated by Loty Caballero and Margie Arellano. Photo by Dan E. Nino

Happy Seniors of Cerritos association lives up to its name

CERRITOS, Calif. – True to its name, the Happy Seniors of Cerritos truly live up to its name as an association by organizing activities that entertain them, promoting fellowship and recognizing important milestone among its members. Hence, the Happy Seniors of Cerritos enhance their quality of life as they journey to the sunset of their lives. On the eve of Valentine’s Day (February 13), the Happy Seniors of Cerritos Association celebrated this day of hearts with a dinner-dance that included with the coronation of Mrs. Valentine, recognizing the birthday celebrators and inducting additional officers to complement the present officers set-up at the Pat Nixon Senior Center on South St. this city. The festivities were enlivened by Dr. Buddy Reyes Band. The hall was decked by Valentinethemed motif courtesy of Minda Pleta, one of the association’s advisors and event coordinators. And Treasurer Emma B. Chupinghong kept the evening flowing with cash raffles. The highlight of the evening was the coronation of Marie

Tess Maglanoc as Mrs. Valentine of the night. Mrs. Maglanoc, an owner of a jewelry and accessories store in Buena Park where she also reside was escorted by her husband Joselito Maglanoc. She was crowned by Joe and Doris Iglesias. Mrs. Iglesias is a commissioner of the Fine Arts and Historical Commission of the City of Cerritos. Husband and wife Veron and Carling Bibat pinned the sash while Mimi Edralin presented the bouquet. Among the shakers and movers of Cerritos who graced the occasion were ABC School Board Member Lynda Johnson and Nora Benson, chairwoman of the Fine Arts and Historical Commission of the City of Cerritos. There were enormous spiritual wisdom in the evening that commenced during the invocation by Pastor Florencio Clemente and during the speech Rev. Dr. Mario Crisostomo who are both key leaders of the Family Christian Church that conduct its services at the Holiday Inn in Buena Park every Sunday. Rev. Clemente is the head pastor while Dr. Crisostomo who was also the inducting officer is the associate pastor of the Family Christian Church

that was established in August 2009 that grew from 60 members to over 500. This congregation whose members are mostly Filipino-Americans will eventually move to a newly $3.5 million church building in Whittier. Playing up the Valentine’s Day theme, Dr. Crisostomo preached the scriptures of the bible in 1 Corinthians that states “Love is patient; love is kind. Love is not jealous, it is not boastful, it is not snobbish. Love is never rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not prone to anger; neither does it brood over injuries. Love does not rejoice in what is wrong but rejoices with the truth.” This definitely sunk in to core values of the attendees who are mostly married couples in the twilight of their lives. The three new officers who were sworn in were Rizaldy Melo who was elected chairman of the board, Jose Tinambacan, member of the board and Estefania Wiegman, one of the public relations officers. Ed Nalundasan Yu, a scion of a prominent political family in Batac, Ilocos Norte, delivered a brief welcome remarks while Rizaldy Melo delivered the closing remarks. (Dan E. Nino)

B MARCH 16-18, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL

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The Asian Journal

MDWK

MAGAZINE

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

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Photo by Marc & Phoebe Aviles of This Is It Photography

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cover story The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - March 16, 2016

Happily ever after:

things to know before tying the knot by AJPress

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All photos by Marc & Phoebe Aviles of This Is It Photography

ove may be universal, but weddings are as diverse as each couple getting married. Like the intricate Mehendi ceremony in India where the bride’s feet and hands are decorated with elaborate patterns and the breaking of glass underfoot to end a Jewish wedding, Filipinos have their share of fascinating, if not eccentric, wedding customs. The Asian Journal briefs you on what to expect from a Filipino wedding and how amusingly more fun it can be. KASALANG PINOY Marriage, according to Modern Oxford dictionary, is “a union of a man and a woman, typically recognized by law, by which they become husband and wife.” Intuitively, matrimony poses a rather subjective sense of the matter—often in strict or outlandish fashion—but it generally induce a concordant purpose which is to formally marry two individuals. Regardless of the how it is done nor the words spoken, the underlying intention remains to be that of shared affection. Much like love, marriage—or at least the ceremony akin to it—in the Philippines goes back to pre-colonization years. Before the introduction of Christianity in the country, the people have been celebrat-

ing this union in a rich, cultural fête reflective of their local credence. According to history, prior to the Spanish colonization in the early 15th century, a wedding in the Philippines usually lasted for three days. Both the bride and groom are brought to the babaylan’s (a tribal priest/priestess) home on the first day, during which the babaylan performs the first blessing: the couple’s hands are joined together over a container of bigas (uncooked rice). Marking the denouement is the act of blood compact—not for the squeamish— where the babaylan pricks both the couple’s chest to draw a small amount of blood that will be mixed with water. The couple announces their

Wedding etiquette 101 love three times before drinking the water with their blood and eating the rice taken from the same container on which their hands were adjoined on the first day. It was only in the 18th century when Filipinos, majority of them, started to embrace the Catholic faith and exercise most of the customary practices concordant of the norms and ideologies of the time. The common “white wedding” was the traditional praxis in the subject of matrimony where the bride would wear white and the rest of the entourage would dress up in a formal garb reflective of the couple’s preference or stature. And although the conventional “white wedding,” popularized by Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom in her

wedding to Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg of Gotha on the 10th of February 1840, implies the use of a white wedding gown with European textile and a lace veil—in this case, Honiton lace—the Filipinos have adapted to this custom and made it uniquely their own by using indigenous materials like piña (fiber produced from pineapple leaves) to make the veils, barong (groom’s clothing), etc., all equally representing their rich culture and skilled craftsmanship. Despite foreign influences, weddings in the Philippines can be distinctly Pinoy; and no matter where in the world it is held, it’s not that difficult to tell because you will know you’re in a Filipino wedding when: Continued on Page 3

THE rules of planning a modern wedding are constantly changing. While it is up to the couple to set the tone – whether adhering to or breaking old-fashioned rules – here are a few tips to consider: • Don’t put gift registry information on the invitation – Tradition says that the practice of including gift registry information on the invitation is considered inappropriate and in poor taste. Instead, share the information on your wedding website or through word of mouth. • Scrap the cash bar – Guests shouldn’t be obliged to shell out money during the wedding reception, Bridal Guide says. If offering more expensive alcohol options falls out of the budget, the couple can instead provide basic options like beer and wine. • Take the time to greet each guest – Since friends and relatives have traveled and blocked off their day to celebrate the wedding, it’s imperative for the newlyweds to greet each guest individually. • Send out handwritten thank you notes – Generally thank you notes should be sent out no longer than three months after the gift was received. For guests, there are some rules to consider as well: • Don’t wear white – One of the long-standing wedding taboos has been that guests should not wear white or ivory. Though brides these days don’t always wear a traditional white dress, the rule that guests should not appear to wear something that would upstage or take attention away from the bride still stands. Guests, however, can wear an ensemble with some white in it, as long as it’s not all white. • Bring a plus one only if indicated in invitation – If it doesn’t say “plus one” on your invitation that means you were invited alone. However, if the couple has allowed you to bring a guest, kindly include his/her name on the RSVP so they can include the name on the seating card. It’s also important to make sure that the plus one can come. Generally a plus one means a date; though some wedding experts say you can ask if you can bring a close friend instead, if you feel comfortable having that conversation with the couple. (AJPress)

Picture Perfect: How to cHoose a wedding PHotograPHer IT’S one of the most important days in your life and of course, it is a must to remember your wedding day through photos. The thing is, not every person is photogenic and most likely, she/he will be busy and nervous about other things. This is why having a good wedding photographer comes in as he or she will know your good angles to create the perfect memories. Marc and Phoebe Aviles of This Is It Photography have been in the photography business since 2007, and have received numerous awards in

Engagement/Wedding categories notably the Accolade of Excellence for Commercial/ Wedding/Portrait/Glamour in 2009 and 2010 from the Wedding Portrait & Photographers International (WPPI). (This Is It at 980 El Camino Real, Suite 380, Santa Clara, CA 95050 / (408) 888-2561 / www.thisisitphotography.com.) The husband and couple team shared some tips on how to choose the right photographer for your pre-nup/engagement and wedding day: 1. Talk to your photographer candidate. Tell all your

concerns, like what you’re look- where you have to be fast, quick, to capture the story of ing for, and get answers. what’s happening, anticipating 2. Review the photographer’s works. You must like Continued on Page 5 their style. If you are paying top dollar, don’t choose a photographer who doesn’t have any experience in weddings. Wedding photography is a different skill set than other photographies — it’s a mixture of (a) photojournalism

Side notes

Put a ring on it. Where? Vena Amoris Latin for Vein of Love If you’re an Austen fan—or a reader of any English classic novels—you probably wear your engagement ring on the fourth finger of your left hand, or would prefer to wear it there if you’re not engaged...yet. Many have argued about its authenticity and scientific relevance, but it is believed that this Vena Amoris is the vein on the third finger of your left hand that runs directly to your heart.

Old wives’ tale—or is it?

Happily ever after... From Page 2 There are more than ten people in your entourage especially when all these people are present: Principal Sponsors Commonly known as Ninongs or Ninangs, these people serve as witnesses to the marriage and act as symbols of wisdom and support for the bride and groom. These are often friends or relatives (aunts or uncles) whom the couple respect and admire. The principal sponsors are the official witnesses of the state whose signatures are necessary in the marriage contract part from those of the bride and groom’s. Secondary Sponsors They play an important role in the wedding ceremony. These people are often close friends or relatives of the bride and groom and function as the following: Coin Sponsors Originated in Spain and Rome, arras (Spanish term for earnest money) or arrhae, refer to the wedding coins given by the coin sponsors to the bride and groom. Traditionally, these thirteen (13)

coins symbolize prosperity and the groom’s ability to provide for his new family. Modern interpretation would express that while these represent the twelve (12) apostles and Christ, these coins are also signs of the couple’s commitment to mutually contribute to the relationship, their children, and the community. Veil Sponsors Regarded as the “cloud” denoting the presence of the Lord over the matrimony, the veil represents purity and oneness. This sheer piece of fabric signifies the couple’s commitment to protect each other and the groom’s strength and responsibility to safeguard his soon-to-be wife. Veil sponsors are usually close friends of the bride and groom. Chord Sponsors The yugal or chord draped over the shoulders of the couple getting married is usually made from silk but other wedding cords could also be a string of flowers, link of coins, or a chain designed to look like a double rosary. Customarily, the chord is looped to form a figure eight (8) to symbolize infinity and everlasting fidelity.

Illustrations by Kenno Samulde

Sukob: Double weddings bring bad luck. Final touches: The bride is not allowed to fit the final wedding dress before the wedding. Sneak peak: The groom must never see the bride on her wedding gown before the wedding as this will bring bad luck.

Believe it Old custom suggests that giving arinola (chamberpot) as a wedding gift would bring good luck—both to the newlyweds and the giver. (Mary May Portez)

Illustrations by Kenno Samulde and Luigi Cruz

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The Asian Journal MDWK MAGAZINE - March 16, 2016

Candle Sponsors Although some couples choose to have their parents light the wedding candles, candle sponsors are usually the married friends of the bride and groom. This lighting of candles plays homage to the similar practice done in christening and as a way to signify the light of Christ and His presence and guidance to the couple’s married life together. The couple can decide, later on, if they will opt to have a unity candle which they will light using the two wedding candles to signify the joining of their families. Matron of Honor (If married) | Maid of Honor | Bridesmaids The matron of honor or the maid of honor is expected to help the bride with the wedding preparations and is ideally expected to organize the bachelorette party. She could also serve as one of the witnesses of the ceremony. Often the sister of the bride or the closest friend, she is the official attendant of the bride. Her role entails helping with other wedding-related tasks like bridal shower, coordinating with suppliers, deciding on invitations and motifs, coordinating with the suppliers, and many other miscellaneous to-do’s. During the actual wedding ceremony, the maid of

honor acts as the bride’s right hand who will be communicating with the wedding planners on behalf of the bride. Best Man | Groomsmen He is the counterpart of both matron of honor and the maid of honor. He could be the brother or the best friend of the groom. The best man has the vital responsibility of safeguarding the wedding rings before the ceremony. He can also act as legal witness to the marriage. Flower Girls Perhaps one of the wedding highlights, the flowers girls are often relatives of the bride and groom that serve as “little assistants” of the bride. According to history, the reference of “flower girls” dates back to ancient Rome during which marriages are celebrated by a parade of offerings. The flower girls (young virgins) at that time would carry sheaves of wheat and herbs as a symbol for prosperity and fertility. During the Medieval Era, wheat was replaced with garlic to ward off evil spirits. It was only in the early 18th century, Victorian Era, when the concept of flower girls carrying actual blooms was observed. These “flower girls” would carry baskets filled with Continued on Page 5

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entertainment

Rachelle Ann saw it coming

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - March 16, 2016

Maine Mendoza, Jeron Teng win in Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards TV personality and the other half of the “AlDub” love team Maine Mendoza and De La Salle University cager Jeron Teng both got an orange blimp for winning at the 2016 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards.

Fans voted for Mendoza to win the Favorite Pinoy Personality Award. She beat out Enrique Gil, James Reid and Kathryn Bernardo for the said title. She was not able to get her

by IrIsh

ChrIstIanne DIzon Philstar.com

MANILA—You can’t expect a lot of neat tricks from an infant, but turns out Rachelle Ann Go wasn’t your ordinary baby. Her mom, Russell, tells us her eldest started showing signs of being a future singer at just eight months old. “At that age, she was already humming Somewhere Out There na laging pinapatugtog ng tita niya,” momma Go proudly shares, all smiles and lilting Ilongga accent. Rachelle’s dad, Oscar, a businessman with a penchant for music, saw his daughter’s star potential and trained her every day, after school, no excuses. “Kahit pagod yung bata, sige pa rin,” Mrs. Go says with mild disapproval. “Pero may kinalabasan naman na maganda.” Maine Mendoza (Trivia: All four children in the Go household know how to play at least one musical instrument. I.e.; Rachelle can play the piano and the drums.) Joining singing contests inevitably followed, and, at age 9, Rachelle Ann would experience something that would stay with her forever—and set the tone for the rest of her life. “I joined my first baranggay singing competition,” she begins. “And I got bullied. By adults.” It’s been 20 years, but she still tears up remembering the cruel Jeron Teng Inquirer.net file photos words of the other contestants’ blimp personally, however, she parents/guardians: “’Di maopted to give a short mesnanalo yan. Tingnan mo yung sage to her fans. “I’m away for hitsura niyan, ang pangit pangit.” vacation, maybe this will do, for The distressed little girl kept her now. I love you all,” she said. head down as she waited for the Meanwhile, Teng was announcement of winners and picked by fans as their Favorswore never to join any competiite Asian Sports Star. He beat tion ever again. But the universe out Pandelela of Malaysia, Kim was in the mood to dispense Kurniawan of Indonesia and poetic justice: Rachelle Ann was Irfan Fandi of Singapore for the proclaimed the grand champion, award. a major eff you to the grown-up In his message, the La Salle doubters and non-believers pickbasketball star said he hopes ing on a child. “’Dun nagsimula to inspire kids to become a ’yung tiwala ko sa sarili ko,” student-athlete like him. the now 29-year-old says with a “I wanna thank everyone smile. who supported and voted In the following years, for me. And I just feel really Rachelle Ann would begin to blessed right now, and I just have a recurring dream in which hope for the kids to… I hope she’s singing in front of millions I can inspire them to be a of people. “I would dream about student-athlete like me. And that, as in bata pa lang ako, God bless everyone,” he said. Grade 4, Grade 5,” she recalls (Inquirer.net) with a faraway look in her eyes.

Her success in London town may have been a surprise for everyone back home, but Rachelle Ann Go dreamed this dream (come true) a very long time ago. Photo by Shaira Luna

“Tapos yung crowd hindi lang Pinoy eh. Kaya sabi ko, hindi lang ito yung plano sa akin. I know there’s something out there.” In 2013, Rachelle Ann Go would prove to be a visionary: She nabbed the role of Gigi Van Tranh for “Miss Saigon,” the beginning of her stellar two-year (so far) musical theater run on London’s West End. Shin, as she is fondly called by family and friends, sits down with Supreme to talk about her journey from miserable to Les Miserables. (The Manila production started yesterday, March 11, at The Theatre at Solaire, and will run for six weeks.) Philstar.com: Why did you decide to dip your toes in the musical theater pond? Rachelle Ann Go: Dumating sa point na I wasn’t really happy. Siguro kasi ang dami kong sinubukan na genre eh. Pop music, nag covers ako, gumawa ako ng rock album, live album, ’yung Rachelle Ann Rocks Live (laughs). Dumating ako sa point na nalilito na ako, what do I really want in my life? Sa paligid ko, ang daming nagsasabing, do this and do that. Iba kasi rin ’yung business side, ’di ba? I understand that. Pero as an artist, paano kaya ako magiging masaya? 2008 to 2010, tina-try ko lahat. Hanggang sa si direk Bobby Garcia, he asked my former manager Veronique del Rosario if I’m interested to audition for the role of Ariel sa The Little Mermaid. Sabi ko nakakahiya, lead pa ’to. If I mess this up, wala na. Pero si direk Bobby talaga, sobrang nagtiwala siya sa

talent ko. Sabi ko, sige na nga. Na in love ako sa teatro. And after that, nag tuluy-tuloy na. How different is acting on TV and in movies versus acting onstage? In front of the camera, sobra akong conscious. Tama ba tong ginagawa ko? Tama ba ’yung makeup ko? Ang dami kong iniisip. Kaya hindi ako makapag focus sa acting. So at the end of the day, I’m like, ano ba ’yung ginawa ko? Half baked eh. Live, naibibigay ko lahat. I don’t think of anything else. I’m just going to do my best. After the show, ang sarap ’nung feeling, ’yung it’s so tiring pero nabigay ko lahat. Sa theater, mas puso. Magkamali man ako tonight, meron pa akong next day para bumawi. I can’t dwell on my performance tonight. I have to move on and let it go. Was trying your luck in London an easy decision to make? Or did you have reservations? Iba’t iba ’yung advice sa akin. Merong nagsabi na, “Do it. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Once pumasok ka sa West End, tuluy-tuloy na yan. Marami nang doors na mag o-open.” Meron namang nagsabi ng, “Kim ’yung role na gusto mo, ’di ba? May pangalan ka na dito sa Pilipinas, tapos ’yun lang ’yung role na bibigay sa ’yo, parang nakakahiya.” And then I had a realization na it’s not about the character, it’s not about the role. It’s about me being away from home and exploring and just trying new things. I felt like wala nang Continued on Page 5

Continued on Page 6

Picture perfect: How to choose... From Page 2

reactions, etc; (b) landscape photography to capture the bride and groom in a landscape scenery; (c) portrait photography to ensure you’re captured in your flattering features and body language or pose; and (d) product photography to capture macro shots of rings, wedding details like dresses, shoes, veil, centerpieces etc. 3. Review the photographer’s contract and ensure all your requests and whatever you paid for are in the contract. 4. Work with someone you are comfortable with. For pre-nuptial / engagement shoots: 1. Maximize your pre-nup day. Schedule your trial makeup on the same day, after your trial make-up you can go to engagement shoot 2. Come prepared. Make sure your hair and make-up are done, and you have clean nails and have shaved. 3. Prepare wardrobe and accessories. Do different looks or styles per location, and the B&G ‘s wardrobe must not be too clashing, but instead complement each other. 4. Personalize your pre-nup. Some examples include going to the place where you first

met, or if both love sports, go to a track and field or baseball court. 5. Scout locations. Check out places where you like to do the shoot and discuss it with your photographer. 6. Be open, comfortable and sweet. Enjoy the moment with your fiancé while being photographed. Your affections will show in the pictures. 7. Prepare wardrobe on how you want to be photographed. If you want something extravagant, style like you mean it. If you just want simple tees and jeans because that’s your personality, then it’s okay too. If you want to look good in pictures, make every effort to look good in your wardrobe. On the day itself: 1. Do your homework. Plan months or a year before your wedding, but on the day of, let go of control because you already did your homework and it’s now time to relax and enjoy your day. DON’T stress out on any small or big details because your stress will show in your facial expression body language, and it will be captured in the photos. 2. Enjoy your wedding day. Enjoy your bride/groom, enjoy the company of your parents, siblings, families, and

Rachelle Ann saw it...

From Page 4 nangyayari, wala nang growth. I was doing the same things over and over. Dead end na. I felt like there’s something more out there and I needed to chase after that. What has London done for you? Before I went to London, I was like, “Lord, why am I going there? What’s my purpose?” That was my question. I was so scared to live alone, to be away from my family and friends. Living in London for two years, I’ve learned a lot. I had to figure out the city’s underground tube lines. I had to learn how to cook. Mula paglilinis ng bahay, paglalaba, lahat ako. Before, takot akong makihalubilo sa tao, sanay akong meron akongmanager. Doon wala. Ako lang. I talk to the producers

directly: this is what I want. Playing Gigi taught me to embrace my flaws. Hindi man ako toned, wala man akong six-pack abs, though I have cellulite, I learned to embrace how I look. Nawala ’yung insecurities. Natuto ako not just as an artist. I’ve grown as a person, as a woman. Dumating ako d’un, I was 27, 28, wala akong alam sa buhay. Feeling ko baby pa ako. Ngayon, I can say yes, I am my age. How do you feel about this irony: Pinoys tend to take local artists for granted, and only appreciate them when they make a splash overseas. Nakakalungkot. Ito na nga nasa harap na natin yung talent. Napakaraming magagaling na singers dito sa Pilipinas, bakit hindi napapansin? Ako, as an

friends. A photojournalistic style of wedding photography will capture your candid and emotional moments. Feel your wedding day. It’s okay to cry and show your tears of happiness — that means you are human and enjoying important moments of your wedding, and those real moments make good pictures. 3. Give your photographer a copy of your timeline at least two weeks before the date and ask your his/her opinion about it to ensure you have enough time for photos. 4. If you got a well-experienced photographer, then you are in good hands. You don’t have to worry about your angles and poses because a skillful photographer will bring out the best in you. 5. Prepare a list of group pictures beforehand and assign somebody to call out the groups, so that you won’t have to call your people. Remember your photographer won’t know who your friends or relatives are, so they can’t chase anyone. Inform your friends and relatives that you want them to be in the formal group pictures so that they won’t be missed in the photos, and this will make most use of your schedule. (Malou Liwanag-Bledsoe)

artist, nakakalungkot makita na pag dating sa ibang bansa, na a-appreciate kami ng ibang lahi. Bakit hindi to makita ng sariling dugo natin? If you could describe your journey in a single word, what would it be? Favored. Of course, I do my part. I audition for roles. But even if I’m not putting too much effort, dumadating na lang [opportunities] eh. Twelve years in, what has being in show business taught you about success? Huwag matakot. Kung nakinig ako sa fears and doubts ko, hindi ko nagawa yung London. Nagtiwala ako sa sarili ko, I just believed in in what I could do. Just be brave enough. Tsaka wala akong tinatapakang tao eh.

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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - March 16, 2016

Happily ever after... From Page 3

herbs and fresh blossoms. Ring Bearer This little page boy has the responsibility of carrying the wedding rings during the ceremony: a custom that is believed to have originated from the ancient Romans and Egyptians during a time when pillows and cushions were considered luxury. As a common practice of the affluent, the ring bearers would showcase these pillows carrying wedding offerings like pieces of gold, silver, or jewelry. Coin Bearer Usually a young boy presenting the wedding coins or arrhae to the groom. This practice, which is believed to have been an influence of the Spaniards, symbolizes the groom’s pledge and commitment to provide for his wife. Bible Bearer Could be a relative or a friend of the bride and groom, although modern day weddings often have bible bearers as young boys not older than ten years of age. The bible bearer’s main responsibility is to present

the bible aloft while marching with the entourage during the ceremony. The monetary dance becomes a showcase of aesthetic and wealth Observed in several parts of the world particularly in Poland, Ukraine, and Yugoslavia—to name a few—is a distinct Spanish influence. Although the actual practice may differ from country to culture, the monetary dance serves as a creative, if not entertaining, way to offer monetary gifts to the newlyweds. In the Philippines where creativity often is at par with one’s individuality, monetary dances are reflective of a family’s stature. One (or more) of the relatives is part of the entertainment In a Filipino wedding, there’s bound to be a talented relative. A violinist, pianist, drummer, or an angelic singer—heck, even a self-confessed artist—there’s always that prodigy in the family (both sides) and a wedding is the best stage to showcase such talent.

Nothing goes to waste You may never admit it, but you did thought of taking some of those desserts to go. Filipinos are known to be resourceful and—excuse the word—frugal. They simply cannot fathom throwing away good food and expensive flower displays. There’s lechon Having lechon on any occasion is unmistakably Pinoy. A Filipino wedding without lechon is not a celebration. Period. No mater how distinct weddings are around the world they serve as paragon of love and hope. Questions of “will you marry me” have been asked many times in different languages by men (or women) of varying stature from all over the globe with an optimistic statistic that many have said YES. A downright gamble waging your ego, reputation, emotional investments, hopes, and entire being for an answer that determines your future. Because above all else, it remains to be the most basic, if not consequential, love. And we all deserve it. (Mary May Portez)

Illustration by Kendrick Tan

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entertainment

Pia Wurtzbach remains focused on duties as Miss Universe

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - March 16, 2016

Colombia fetes Brillante Ma. Mendoza by Bayani

R. San Inquirer.net

Diego

It was a serendipitous reunion of sorts. Filipino filmmaker Brillante Ma. Mendoza bumped into Oscar-winning actress Susan Sarandon in Colombia, of all places—where the two worldrenowned artists received honorary awards at the 56th Cartagena International Film Festival, which ran from March 2 to 7. At the “palatial and historic” Casa Pestagua hotel, Mendoza reminded Sarandon that it was actually their second encounter. Mendoza recalled: “She was the presenter when I won my first big award, the Golden Leopard (video), at the Locarno International Film Festival in Switzerland, for ‘Masahista’ in 2005.” the director vividly remembered the dress that the actress wore in Locarno more than a decade ago. “It was jade green, with spaghetti straps and a deep neckline. While I was freezing in my barong, she wasn’t bothered by the weather at all.” Amazed by his total recall, Sarandon told the Filipino director: “What a small world! Now, the two of us are the honorees. I am glad you continued making films.” She also expressed astonishment that Mendoza had made 20 short and full-length films since his directorial debut, “Masahista.” Unchanged “Susan was very warm. She didn’t change at all in the last 11 years. Still carefree and chatty, she talked about her advocacies,” he told the Inquirer in an e-mail interview. the awarding ceremony on March 7 left Mendoza speechless. “I was delayed by 15 minutes. When I arrived on the red carpet, there were only a few people there,” he related. turned out everyone,

MISS Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach has categorically denied that she is currently dating someone. Showing her Miss Universe sash during a Facebook Live session last Saturday, Wurtzbach said: “”No. there’s no specific someone in my life. this is the specific someone. this is the priority.” With this statement, the 26year-old Filipina beauty queen has shut down rumors that she is dating the “Sexiest Doctor Alive” Dr. Mikhail Varshavski. Varshavski and Wurtzbach first met in a small gathering in New York City last month. After their first meeting, photos and clips of the two together circulated online, prompting fans to speculate that they were dating. the 26-year-old Varshavski

Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach with Dr. Mikhail Varshavski.

has a million-strong following on Instagram as “Dr. Mike.” He graduated from the New York Institute of technology and he is engaged in charity work and

Instagram/doctor.mike

health promotion. It was People Magazine who tagged Varshavski as the “sexiest doctor alive.” (Inquirer. net)

Sam Concepcion ‘in a creative bubble’ after breakup by Bayani

R. San Inquirer.net

Diego

Filipino filmmaker Brillante Ma. Mendoza

including the paparazzi, was already in the theater. “When I entered the venue, the people stood up and clapped. I was so touched.” then, a clip of his films was shown and again there was a resounding ovation, he reminisced. “It was unexpected. I didn’t see Filipinos in the audience. But on my last day in Colombia, a few Filipinos asked to have a photo taken with me, even though they had no idea who I was.” He had the same goose bump experience earlier when he conducted a master class on March 5. “the hall was packed. the questions seemed endless,” he recounted. “the Colombians were curious about the Philippines. they asked about our similarities.” His answer: “I said our cultures were the same. We are always late, too. they laughed. We have the same religion, of course. there were also many churches there. Another thing we share is our interest in beauty pageants. Again, they laughed loudly.”

His hosts took him all over the city, and he got to attend some screenings held in schools. “the screenings were free for the accredited students, so the venues were always full. they saw behindthe-scenes footage of my latest movie ‘taklub.’ Some students couldn’t believe that we finished the film in 12 days.” the young cineastes were just as keenly interested in our country, he said. “they wanted to know about my process on the set and the usual budget range in making an indie film.” Someone asked about the improvisational skills of Filipino actors after he told the audience that he doesn’t usually provide the cast with a script. Brillante met several Colombian filmmakers, too, including Ciro Guerra, whose latest work, “Embrace of the Serpent,” was nominated in the best foreign language film category of this year’s Oscars. “they were proud of this achievement because it was a first for their country,” said Mendoza.

AFtEr a breakup, Sam Concepcion said you could either wallow in self-pity or move forward. He chose the latter. “You don’t want to dwell in the dark, because it won’t do you any good,” said the 23-year-old singer-actor, who called it quits with Jasmine Curtis-Smith in early 2015, after almost three years of dating. “I’m focused on bettering myself, my craft, which ultimately is what’s important.” After a breakup, Sam Concepcion said you could either wallow in self-pity or move forward. He chose the latter. “You don’t want to dwell in the dark, because it won’t do you any good,” said the 23-year-old singer-actor, who called it quits with Jasmine Curtis-Smith in early 2015, after almost three years of dating. “I’m focused on bettering myself, my craft, which ultimately is what’s important.” Everyone deals with emotions and difficult situations differently, Sam pointed out. In his case, he channeled his

Sam Concepcion

energy into working on his third full-length album, aptly titled “Bago,” which was launched recently. “Eventually, you find yourself in a creative bubble, and everything’s seemingly possible. You’re like, ‘Yeah, let’s go do an album.’ And it just flows,” he told the Inquirer at a press conference, adding that he’s in no rush to enter a new romantic relationship. “I’m enjoying this time of growth and learning, which I need more of.”

But while he insisted that he’s in a “good place” at the moment, Sam couldn’t help but feel a bit surprised about the news that Jasmine is now seeing someone else—someone Sam actually knows. “I know the guy…a friend of a friend. I wouldn’t have thought that it would happen. But you get used to it,” he said. “He’s not a close friend, but he’s nice.” More open Sam, who’s part of the ongoing ABS-CBN drama series, “You’re My Home,” seemed more open to discussing details of his past relationship this time than he was a couple of months ago, at the height of the issue. “It took me quite some time before I was able to wrap my head around the situation,” admitted Sam, who has already gotten used to being prodded about his personal life, no matter how much he tries to separate it from his show biz career. “You have to live with it; it’s just the way things are,” he said. “there’s always a time to talk—and a time not to.” Heartbreak or sadness is just as good a musical inspiration as happiness—a creative currency of sorts, said Sam.

Moonlighting by Mylah de

leon

It was “hail, hail the gags all here” at the Beverly Hills Country Club. the live roast started with tip toe humor, nodding deferentially to the seven “honorees,” rising to verbal heights. With male roasters, it was beyond brilliance — their pauses got screams and wit barbs. Some feathers were ruffled, egos deflated and stabs at the heart. Whoever thought

Mango Mix

The fragile art of roasting people it was an evening to gather a large number of friends and peers purely to honor and let the roastee know the depth of their affection, must be living in the 14th century — the roasters practiced a thousand and one ways to cook them on that comic war. It was a fair game, with the cast of characters are astonishing: lawyers, a civic leader, a philanthropist, a beauty queen, a flamboyant fashion designer and a vitriolic journalist. the coup de gras were cruel, the more important the person is, the more biting the in-

sults are — fast, furious and boiling. Comebacks as well were like an avalanche and evened the score. In comedy, the laughter has to be real, jokes have to be funny. there are no such rules about humor or comedy because it there are a thousand and one forms of humorous expressions. However, it isn’t always funny as what can be considered as “funny” is a matter of someone’s opinion. Humor could be something innocent, warmhearted, playful or affectionate; but then again it could also be a bitter satire,

How to make history enjoyable

by Martin

Jason l. ita-as

SoME people say that the past should stay in the past. While it seems like looking back in time may not seem all too fruitful, there are actually a lot of advantages to learning about the events back in the day. there may be times when you are asked to look into history in order to research or learn about something. But learning about past events isn’t as bad as it seems. Here are 5 ways you can make history lessons a little less boring: Put yourself in the story Not yourself, per se. More like your ancestors or the people who came before you and your forefathers. It can be very interesting to see how your lineage fits into the history books. While this takes a lot of researching or cross referencing information from your grandparents or family tree (it can be fun to listen to their stories), the results can be very surprising and make your interest in the subject grow. You never know your great grandfather could have been a wellknown playwright or the dentist of a famous figure. House visit to the past Museums are often considered the homes of true history,

housing and protecting artifacts of the past. You may be telling yourself “the museum is boring enough on its own”. But thanks to modern technology museums can now be amazingly interactive and fun. Research about museum displays that have audio tour guides or displays that you can touch and learn from to really get immerse in the stories of the past. Novel ideas If history books bore you to no end, there are other kinds of paperbacks that can prove more interesting to read from. Novels based on personal accounts of people who existed during the time can be more entertaining to look into than pure facts and monotonous paragraphs of historic lore. With the convenience of the internet, you can easily google the kind of books you’re looking for. Historic and entertaining! On the silver screen If books or museums aren’t

doing it for you, it might be a lot more fun to rent an autobiographic movie or videos that do all the research for you. Fact driven history videos or movies that are based on the novels of people who were present in that event prove to catch people’s attention more than just searching for facts. Prepare some popcorn, dim the lights and enjoy an engaging history lesson on film. Just don’t forget to pick movies known to be deeply rooted with fact and make sure to take notes while you watch (unless you really liked it and plan to watch it again). Learn with a friend If trying out these activities by yourself is still boring, do it with a friend. Learning is a lot easier if you have somebody to exchange opinions and ideas with. If you don’t understand parts of the museum tour or the material that you’re reading, don’t be embarrassed and ask away. the point of you touring

features

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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - March 16, 2016

an insult so degrading. A great deal of humor also falls off the tree of life. Funny things happen to us, or we observe them happening to others — and that makes us laugh. It helps alleviate the pain we would constantly be suffering, and keep misery at bay. Come to think of it, if we were to concentrate on the tragedies of life, isn’t humor a social lubricant that helps us get over some of the bad experiences we’ve had? It’s strange, but I will accept any allegation of my deficien-

cies — cosmetic, intellectual, virtuous — except the charge that I have no sense of humor. I’ve always had the tendency to make light of things — widowhood, failed relationships, betrayals of friendship. And by the way, during last Saturday’s event, spring came to our soiree with more than a hundred guests as we held our annual celebrity Roast and Induction of hold out members. In attendance was the greatest living legend Maestro Dexter Grey and his wife Dr. Erlinda Grey and her

serene Princess Eleanor, guest of Van and Marilou Dichoso — all thoughtful and supportive friends of the FAPCA. Having produced the show, I’m to blame for bad seats, wilting salad, a single bad note played by the band, mistakes, and the surprising paucity of complainers. to demonstrate an absence of favoritism, for all the people who helped this labor of love be a success, thank you. *** E-mail Mylah at moonlightingmdl@ aol.com

a museum or reading a novel about the past is to learn, not to pretend to be smart. Just make sure you’re both aware of the goal and don’t start distracting each other. And there you have it, five ways to make your history research a lot more enjoyable. You may find yourself having to

read about the past or collect information about something that happened in history. When you do, make sure to remember these fun and helpful tips.

services particularly when it comes to Philippine travel arrangements to the Filipino-American community in the US Mango Tours is able to provide its customers with a number of travel options at affordable rates because of its consolidator contracts with over 11 airlines. Book your travel bookings with Mango Tours by calling its 24/7 U.S. toll-free number at 1-866-2-MANILA (1-866-2-626452). Visit www.mangotours.com to know more about its latest promos and travel offers.* *Advertising Supplement

*** Mango Tours is a provider of quality, affordable and convenient travel services that include low-priced airline tickets, customized Philippine and International Tour Packages, Cruises, Land Transfers, Passport and Visa Concerns. It is the #1 producer of reliable travel

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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - March 16, 2016

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