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August 31-September 2, 2016
T h e F i l i p i n o –A m e r i c A n c o m m u n i T y n e w s pA p e r
Volume 26 - No. 70 • 3 Sections - 22 Pages
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Duterte, Obama expected to talk drugs and China at ASEAN summit Also published in: • Orange County/Inland Empire • Northern California • Las Vegas • New York/ New Jersey
by eric
anthony licaS AJPress
HUMAN rights concerns, the South China Sea and headline-making comments from Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte will dominate his upcoming conversation with U.S. President Barack Obama during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit next week. The two presidents plan to speak face-to-face for the first time on the sidelines of the summit in Vientiane, Laos on September 6. The meeting will
DATELINE
give them a chance to discuss a number of developments impacting relations between the two nations. “The discussion [between Obama and Duterte] will encompass both concerns about statements that have been made by the President of the Philippines... our commitment to supporting human rights and...the regional picture particularly...maritime issues,” said White House Deputy National Security Adviser Ben Rhodes during a media briefing on Monday, August 29. Obama previously spoke to Duterte on May 18, congratulating him on win-
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ning the presidency. The U.S. president praised the Philippines’ “vibrant democracy,” but also emphasized the importance of protecting human rights. Extrajudicial killings alarming Notably, the rhetoric and methods employed by the Duterte administration in its aggressive war on drugs have drawn concern from U.S. officials and condemnation from international human rights groups. Police have killed over 700 alleged drug dealers and users, and more than 1,000 suspects have been murdered in apparent acts of vigilantism since
Duterte was sworn in on June 30, Philippine National Police chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa revealed during a Senate hearing last week. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Amnesty International (AI), Human Rights Watch (HRW), and other organizations have publicly denounced the president for apparently encouraging extrajudicial killings. UN special rapporteurs Agnes Callamard and Dainius Puras said the president’s repeated declarations of a “shoot-to-kill” order against criminals were an incitement of violence and a
violation of international law, according to a previous report from the Asian Journal. Duterte had threatened to pull the Philippines out of the UN over the rapporteurs’ comments on Sunday, August 20. However, Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay backtracked on the president’s suggestion and said the country remained committed to its allies on Monday, August 21. Duterte has countered international criticisms of his hardline stance on crime by citing the severity of the drug
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USA
FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
Paynor named PH ambassador to US
Marciano Paynor
PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte announced on Monday, August 29, that he has appointed Malacañang Palace chief protocol officer Marciano Paynor as the Philippines’ new ambassador to the United States. Duterte said Paynor has already accepted the position. “He is a seasoned foreign career envoy,” the president
said of Paynor. Paynor previously served as protocol chief to former presidents Fidel Ramos and Gloria
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Chinese American arrested at Clark airport for smuggling cocaine THE Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Tuesday, August 30, filed charges against a 68-year old Chinese-American for allegedly attempting to smuggle more than two kilos of cocaine into the country. The suspect, identified as Alan Soo Hoo of New York, was arrested last Sunday, August 28, at the Clark International Airport (CRK). He is now in the custody of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). Soo Hoo allegedly violated Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act, a non-bailable offense with a fine of P500,000 to P10 million. Airport personnel discovered 2.4 kilograms
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Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle.
Cardinal Tagle asks Filipinos to condemn all forms of murder
NATIONAL HEROES’ DAY. President Rodrigo Duterte pays his respects after laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during the commemoration of National Heroes Day at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City on Monday, Aug. 29. Philstar.com photo by Krizjohn Rosales
DOJ to revisit pork barrel probe, says Aquino admin suppressed evidence by Dana
SioSon AJPress
FOLLOWING President Rodrigo Duterte’s previous order, the Department of Justice (DOJ) is set to review cases related to the misuse of the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF), also referred to as the pork barrel scam. The re-opening of the probe is part of the president’s platform to rid the government of corruption and to address the previous administration’s alleged selective justice, according to Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II. Aguirre told reporters on
Palace dares int’l media to come to PH Monday, August 29, Andanar stressed that the members of the international press should MANILA — As the Philip- personally witness the lives of pines’ war on drugs continuously “those who are affected by [ildraws criticisms and earns at- legal] drugs” because it is a real tention from the international “responsible journalism.” media, Presidential CommunicaThe communications secretary tions Secretary Martin Andanar said that the journalists must has dared foreign journalists to write stories not just about ex“come to the Philippines” and trajudicial killings, but also about experience firsthand the threat the human rights violations comof drugs in the country. mitted by illegal drug suspects. In an interview during the Ja“It’s not fair for just anybody to pan-ASEAN Media Forum on u PAGE A3 by JoSeph
Monday, August 29, that there was something “fishy” about the way DOJ, under his predecessor senator Leila De Lima, handled the case. “What I know is that the DOJ then suppressed evidence against other politicians,” he told reporters. He, however, refused to name the politicians. The justice secretary also said he will talk to Janet Napoles, the businesswoman alleged to be the brains behind the multi-billion peso fund scam. “When Napoles first surfaced, she was brought to Malacañang
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by JoSeph
almer B. peDraJaS AJPress
MANILA Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle has finally broken his silence on the recent spate of killings in the Philippines as he asked Filipinos to condemn all forms of murder happening in the country. In an interview on Sunday, August 28, by Church-run Radio Veritas, Tagle called for his countrymen to denounce not just the issue of extrajudicial killings, but also other kinds of killings including abortion, unfair labor practices and wasting food. “As long as one is alive, whoever he or she is, that life is sacred. I know that the spate of killings is becoming a big issue nowadays — they say, it affects even those who are not guilty, those who are innocent — but whether be a person guilty or not, we should give importance to life. And if a person is already proven guilty, give another chance to live — give chance to rise from old life,” Tagle stressed in Filipino. The Manila archbishop released his statement against the issue after the deaths of more than 1,800 illegal drug-re-
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Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II
De Lima on Duterte’s resignation call: I won’t quit by Dana
SioSon AJPress
almer B. peDraJaS AJPress
Senator Leila De Lima
RESPONDING to President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for her resignation, Senator Leila De Lima has refused to back down, stressing that the action would be the same as admitting her guilt. The senator’s statement on Monday, August 29 comes after the president’s string of tirades against her — including the accusations that she allegedly took money from drug lords and allowed the trade of drugs
to continue inside the New Bilibid Prison while she was justice security during the previous administration. “Now the call for resignation, you know, I’ve already told you before, it crossed my mind. I thought about resigning so they would shut up, so they would stop attacking me, so my life would be peaceful. I thought I could just resign,” De Lima admitted. But after reflecting, she said she later changed her mind because she is not guilty. “Besides, resignation at this
1
point will be an admission of guilt and a sign of weakness. And I’m neither weak nor guilty,” the senator said. De Lima, commenting on Duterte’s remarks, added there’s no need for her to take the advice of her persecutor. “Is there any reason why I should be taking advice from the person who is persecuting and maligning me? I don’t think so,” she said. “It is only natural to self-preservation that one does not rely on the suggestions of those who want to see
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A AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 2, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797
From the Front Page
Duterte, Obama expected to talk drugs…
PAGE A1 t
problem in the Philippines. He said 3.7 million Filipinos were addicted to methamphetamine (called shabu in the Philippines) during a National Hero’s Day speech on Monday, August 29. “Human rights cannot be used as a shield or an excuse to destroy the country,” said Duterte during his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) in July. Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella did concede that some of those alleged criminals killed without due process may have been the victims of vigilantism, police error or even rival drug dealers in a statement released on Friday, August 12. He said the PNP will look into those cases. Meanwhile, the president challenged the UN’s authority to investigate alleged police killings of drug suspects on Monday by contrasting the Philippine drug war with other humanitarian crises. “I did not drop barrel (bombs) like Assad … I do not burn wom-
en because they refuse to have sex,” said Duterte on Monday in reference to the Syrian Civil War and the Islamic State, respectively. “UN, you can only investigate genocide when you kill without giving a hoot, if you are killing children, whole community.” Despite mounting scrutiny, the government’s anti-drug efforts have widespread local support, according to PBS and other sources. On Sunday, July 31, Duterte cited $32 million in planned U.S. security aid as show of support for his efforts against the illegal drug trade, according to a previous report by the Asian Journal. However, U.S. State Department spokesperson Elizabeth Trudeau clarified that American money was not funding extrajudicial killings. She said all security assistance coming from the U.S. is intended to “promote human rights … professionalism, due process and the rule of law,” during a press briefing on Monday, August 8.
Trudeau went on to “strongly urge the Philippines to ensure its law enforcement efforts comply with its human rights obligations.” South China Sea negotiations Duterte’s tough rhetoric in support of the country’s war on crime contrasts sharply with his conciliatory tone in reference to territorial disputes with Beijing. Chinese leaders have declared sovereignty over the majority of the South China Sea based on centuries-old maps and fishing guides. Despite U.S. support for an international ruling backing the Philippines’ complaints, President Duterte and his administration have avoided provoking the Philippines’ much larger and wealthier neighbor. On July 12, a ruling from the United Nations Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) overwhelmingly favored the Philippines against China in a complaint filed by the administration of former President Benigno Aquino III.
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CELEBRATING THE COCONUT. Colorful in their coconut-inspired costumes, contingents from different towns of Quezon province join a dance competition along Gomez St. in Lucena City on Sunday, August 27 to celebrate the Niyogyugan Festival. Named after the coconut (niyog) and dancing (yugyugan), the festival pays tribute to the tree of life that sustained the province in its early years. Inquirer.net photo by Richard Reyes
DOJ to revisit pork barrel probe… PAGE A1 t
and Mar (Roxas) accompanied her in Camp Crame. The question is why? They were obviously hiding something,” he pointed out. In 2014, Napoles identified senators and congressmen who allegedly benefitted in the pork scam. Among the officials Napoles tagged were Ramon Revilla Jr., Jinggoy Estrada, Juan Ponce Enrile, Vicente Sotto III, Loren Legarda, Aquilino Pimentel III, Alan Peter Cayetano, Gringo Honasan, Manny Villar, Florencio Abad, Joel Villanueva and Francis Escudero.
However, only Revilla, Estrada, and Enrile have been charged with plunder. Aguirre said he also believes Napoles was fooled by the previous administration into cooperating, adding she could stand as a witness. “Why did she cover up for others when she knew they were all guilty? She won’t be able to get away with it anyway, unless the president grants her pardon,” he said. “She could be a witness again, even not necessarily a state witness. Anyway, she will be in jail due to her conviction in another
serious illegal detention case. The only benefit she could get is to just tell the truth.” Aguirre also assured that whistleblower Benhur Luy and other witnesses would remain under the witness protection program of DOJ. Earlier in a news conference on Sunday, August 21, Duterte said revisiting the pork barrel scam probe would prove De Lima’s alleged involvement in crime and corruption. “The Napoles case should deserve a second look,” Duterte said. “It involves corruption and De Lima.” n
Cardinal Tagle asks Filipinos to condemn…
PAGE A1 t
lated people have been recorded since the end of June. Tagle believes that there are also other forms of killings that the people need to condemn. “I hope that we’re also worried about abortion. Why are only a few people speaking against abortion? It’s also a form of murder.” he said. “Let’s guard against abortion. Those who are not yet born can’t do anything.” The cardinal also emphasized that “unfair labor practices” also “kill the reputation of the
workers.” He went on to add that wasting food and pushing children to go into vices are also forms of killing. “Whenever we waste food, why does it have to be put in the garbage first before someone would pick it up and eat, it is also a kind of murder, it kills children who have nothing to eat,” he explained. “Selling illegal drugs, pushing the youth to go into vices — that’s also a form of murder against their dreams, their minds, their good relation-
ships with their families.” The archbishop ended his plea as he said that everyone should “be consistent to promote whole or integral life” and “not be selective.” Tagle has now joined other religious groups and pro-life individuals who have criticized the recent killings in the country. Earlier in August, Archbishop Socrates Villegas, head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), issued a statement expressing that he is
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From the Front Page
LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 2, 2016
A
Chinese…
PAGE A1 t
ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez
De Lima on Duterte’s resignation…
PAGE A1 t
you extinguished and who wish your destruction.” Earlier in the day, Duterte called De Lima to resign from her post. “Dapat mag-resign ka (You need to resign). You resign,” the president said, addressing De Lima in his speech while visiting a cop who was injured during a drug operation in Tacloban City. “If I were De Lima, ladies and gentlemen, I’ll hang myself. The innermost of your [De Lima’s] core as a female is being serialized every day,” he added, re-
ferring to the senator’s alleged illicit affairs that, according to the president, make her a bad example for women. Last week, the president accused the senator of having an affair with Ronnie Dayan, her former driver who would reportedly collect the drug money. De Lima further said she would not attend the House of Representatives’ planned inquiry into her alleged involvement in illegal drugs because she has already been “judged guilty” by the president. “I’m already judged guilty, I’m finished in so far as the President
is concerned kaya nga ako pinapa-resign (that’s why he’s asking me to resign). Tapos haharap ako dun (and then I will show my face there)? Wala na kong kahihiyan sa sarili ko nun ah (I have no shame then),” she said. “I’m judged guilty already by the president. And then you think that House Speaker will be anything near fair to me?” the senator added, referring to Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez. Alvarez belongs to Duterte’s Partido Demokratiko Pilipino– Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) party list. n
Palace dares int’l media to come to…
PAGE A1 t
conclude about extrajudicial killings, that there’s so much dead without even qualifying which one is dead because of authorized police operation, which ones were killed because of a gang war or regular murders,” he said. Within two months of President Rodrigo Duterte’s war against drugs, international media organizations, such as the New York Times, Washington Post, TIME Magazine, and BBC, have continually reported on the loss of lives in this anti-drug campaign.
Thai journalist Nopporn WongAnan compared Duterte’s antidrug campaign to Thailand’s former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s leadership. Shinawatra’s governance recorded 2,8000 extrajudicial killings in just three months. But the investigation showed that more than half of the recorded victims had no connection with illegal drugs. “It’s like, the only place for drug dealers was hell. They did not deserve to live on Earth,” Wong-Anan said. “It was a license to kill to a police soldier,” he added.
Japanese journalist Naoji Shibata also advised that Duterte’s government should issue a clearer statement because “the rest of the world does not know him.” Andanar went on to say that he can’t change Duterte’s style because the president is committed to eradicating the illegal drug problem in the country. Despite all the negative coverage in the press, the president said he is not bothered. “They said I am the most unpopular among the international press. I don’t care,” Duterte told reporters in Catbalogan, Samar on Monday. n
Cardinal Tagle… PAGE A2 t
in “utter disbelief.” “If drugs indeed kill, will killing the suspects remove the menace? Are we providing our children a safe haven, by teaching them by our tolerance of murders, that killing suspected criminals without fair hearing is a morally acceptable way to eradicate crime? From a generation of drug addicts shall we become a generation of street murderers? Will the do-it-yourself justice system assure us of a safer and better future?” Villegas said. Meanwhile, Fr. Amado Picardal, head of the CBCP’s Commission for Basic Ecclesial Communities, said that “the Church is powerless to stop the killings.” n
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Go Metro to LA Football The Bruins take over the Rose Bowl and the Rams and Trojans share the Coliseum this fall – and Metro wants to get you there. Metro provides frequent bus and rail service to both stadiums, so you won’t get caught in tra;c or miss a minute of the action. To plan your trip and >nd the route that’s best for you, visit metro.net/gameday. Help Us All Travel Safely With the combination of our law enforcement o;cers, Metro’s state-of-the-art security system and your help, we can create a safe and pleasant ride for everyone. If you see any suspicious activity while riding, report it immediately by calling 1.888.950.SAFE, using the LA Transit Watch app or using the intercom on trains and at Metro Rail stations. To learn more, visit metro.net/security. Metro Reminds You to Pay Your Fare Each year, Metro loses millions of dollars to riders who don’t pay their fares. Help us keep our fares low and maintain a balanced budget by remembering to pay each time you ride a Metro bus or train. Failure to pay could result in a >ne of up to $1000. For a list of fares and to apply for a reduced fare, visit metro.net/fares. Take a Tour of Metro Rail Did you know you can ride directly to popular Southern California destinations such as Downtown Santa Monica, Universal Studios and Grand Central Market on Metro Rail? Learn how to get started with a FREE guided tour of the Metro Expo, Red or Purple Lines. You’ll get useful tips on how to plan your trip, buy a pass, and ride the Metro Rail and bus system. To reserve your spot, visit metro.net/tours.
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SUPPORT FOR TALKS. Advocates hold a rally at the Peace Bell of the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City on Sunday, Aug. 28 to support peace negotiations between the government and communist rebels. Both sides agreed to an indefinite ceasefire last Friday, August 26.
of contraband hidden in a secret compartment of Soo Hoo’s bag when it went through an X-ray machine at the Customs clearance. The PDEA confirmed that the cocaine has a street value of up to P18 million. “For being a drug mule, his presence here poses a serious threat to our youth. He should be expelled, blacklisted and banned from re-entering our country,” BI commissioner Jaime Morente said in a statement. Morente noted that Soo Hoo will not be deported yet due to his criminal charges but added that the BI will soon be issuing the order for Soo Hoo’s summary deportation. “If he is convicted, he should first serve his jail sentence after which we will deport him and place him in our blacklist,” the BI chief said. Soo Hoo took Emirates flight EK 338 from Dubai and arrived at CRK after a stopover in Cebu on the night of Sunday, August 28. It was reportedly his first time to disembark in the Philippines. The American citizen is an accountant who works for small companies in the United States, according to a report by Inquirer. According to BI spokesperson Atty Ma. Antonette Mangrobang, the United States Department of Homeland Security alerted BI intelligence officials of Soo Hoo’s impending arrival in the country. The BI subsequently tipped the PDEA and Customs agents after confirming that Soo Hoo was aboard the flight, leading to his arrest. (By Dana Sioson / AJPress)
A AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 2, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
Dateline USa
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NaFFAA mourns the loss of former National Chairman Ed Navarra WASHINGTON, D.C. — Eduardo Navarra, who served as NaFFAA National Chairman from 2010-2014, died August 26 of intracranial hemorrhage. He was surrounded by his family, who kept vigil for days until he passed away at the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital of Oakland in Pontiac, Michigan. He was 72. “We lost a pillar of the community,” said NaFFAA National Chairman Brendan Flores. “Tito Ed was always extremely dedicated and we all looked up to him with great admiration and respect. He was the epitome of servant leadership. His legacy will live on.” A charter member of NaFFAA, Navarra was among the nearly 2,000 Filipino-American community leaders who converged in Washington, D.C. in August 1997 to organize the first National Empowerment Conference (NEC). Michigan sent one of the largest delegations to the historic event, due in no small measure to Navarra’s influence. He has consistently attended all 12 national gatherings in the last 19 years. “Ed Navarra was completely dedicated to NaFFAA and its empowerment goals,” said Loida Nicolas Lewis, National Chair Emeritus and one of the founders of the organization. “He shepherded NaFFAA when it needed tender loving care, infusing it with his passion for advocacy, especially on issues that matter to Filipinos in the United States. We are all enriched by his leadership.” Greg Macabenta, whom Navarra succeeded as National Chair, called Navarra’s passing “a great loss to NaFFAA and to the entire Filipino-American community. He was dedicated to the cause of unity and empowerment and he worked hard at it - but he went about it in his own charming way, always good-natured and always with that mischievous quip in the course of a heated discussion. Ed was also a very sweet and thoughtful person. On at least two occasions after a NaFFAA conference, he handed me a box of chocolates to bring home to my wife.” Boardnember Rozita Lee also shared that Navarra was a delightful person with a wry sense of humor, which has endeared him to many friends and colleagues. “He kept us laughing all the time, providing comic relief
especially after a tense discussion,” she said. Gloria T. Caoile, National Vice Chair Emeritus and a NaFFAA founder added, “We love the way he loved life, his devotion to his wife Vicky and his children and grandchildren, and the way he laughed about the absurd things that came his way.” Caoile notes that on his Facebook page, Navarra posted as his personal motto this tongue-in-cheek quote: ‘To reach for the sublime and the ridiculous!!!’” Youth mentor and champion Navarra attended his last National Empowerment Conference held four weeks ago in Philadelphia, as a member of NaFFAA Region 3 East. “Although he looked frail and weak, he told me he came because he wanted to be there to celebrate a millennial moment, when youth leadership at the national level becomes a reality,” recalled Rita Gerona Adkins, a Washington, D.C.-based journalist and colleague. “I could tell from his broad smile after the conference that he felt something truly significant happened, that he was thinking, happily, for the young leaders who are now taking leadership roles and, hopefully, bring NaFFAA to even greater success.” Region 10 Chair Myrna Farinas Reyes recalls how Navarra called her a number of times during the planning of the 2014 NEC in San Diego, Calif. “He wanted to make sure we gave the younger generation the lead in chairing the planning committee,” she says. “We listened to his advice. As a result, we had a very successful conference headed by our youth leaders, working hand in hand with their elders.” Among the young people Navarra mentored is Kelly Ilagan, who studied International Studies and Political Science at Michigan State University. Inspired by Navarra, she attended the NEC in Philadelphia for the first time. “Tito Ed was a father figure who believed in me,” she said. “He encouraged my generation to be engaged in our country’s political process. Everyone claims to want the youth to be involved in community organizations, but he always acted on it.” Rebuilding NaFFAA’s infrastructure In his acceptance speech after being sworn in as National Chair in 2010, Navarra vowed to
re-establish NaFFAA’s political presence in the nation’s capital through active advocacy, voter education, corporate partnerships and coalition building. “While we will continue to be concerned about events in the Philippines, our collective energies will be directed towards issues that affect our community here in the U.S.,” he declared. “We will undertake these initiatives not as an umbrella organization but as an equal partner with other national formations and local groups that have a stake in protecting and promoting the interests of Filipinos and FilipinoAmericans in this country.” During his four-year term, NaFFAA started rebuilding its infrastructure to strengthen the FilAmVote program, a key vehicle for political empowerment in this country. Internally, he paved the way for a revision of NaFFAA’s By-Laws, the creation of the Board of Governors, and publication of a monthly newsletter. He also expanded regional memberships by partitioning Region 3 into East and West, due to rapid growth among Midwest states. Armin Sayson, Region 3East Chairman, remembered how Navarra always set high standards for officers and members of the region to strive for and maintain. “As a leader, he recognized the talent within the region and mentored the individuals who would replace him,” Sayson says. “I am grateful that Ed encouraged me to take on a leadership role within the region. He always told me, ‘Panahon mo na, Armin!’ Until the day he died, Ed continued to provide advice, guidance, and friendship.” Community Service Navarra’s long track record of outstanding community service started from the community where he and his family had resided for many years – Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. He became an editor of a Filipino American newspaper, and an agent in promoting Philippine-based performers to raise funds for local organizations in Michigan. His leadership at the Filipino American Community Council (FILAMCCO) brought relevant fund raising initiatives that fueled the organization’s projects for the Filipino American community. FILAMCCO is the umbrella organization of over 52 Filipino-
NaFFAA National Chairman Ed Navarra welcomes delegates and guests to the 11th National Empowerment Conference held August 2014 in San Diego, Calif. Photo by NaFFAA Communications
American organizations in Michigan. Navarra was one of the founding members of the Council of Asian Pacific Americans (CAPA), which is a consortium of Asian Pacific organizations and leaders composed of Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, Asian-Indian, Filipino and other Asian Pacific groups in Metro Detroit. In 2003, Navarra became NaFFAA Region 3 Chair, occupying the same position four times. During his term, he organized highly successful regional conferences and the hosting of the 6th national conference in Chicago in 2004. In 2006, he received the prestigious Presidential “Banaag Award” for Community Service by then Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. A dedicated Republican Party
member, Navarra was appointed by the Republican National Committee in 2013, one of four Filipino American leaders to sit in the Asian Pacific American Advisory Council. Systems Engineer After completing his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering in FEATI University in the Philippines in 1965, he worked for Northern Motors Company. In 1967, he immigrated to the United States and completed his Master’s in Computer & Electronics Systems Engineering from the University of Michigan and Wayne State University. He worked at Burroughs Company, then transferred to Ford Motor Company in 1973, where he worked for 30 years as Systems Engineer until his retirement in 2003.
The youngest of three children, Eduardo Navarra was born on Oct. 27, 1944 and grew up in Sigma Capiz, Philippines. He is survived by his wife Dr. Victoria Gallardo Navarra; their children John, Laura and Nicole; daughter-in-law Rachel; sons-in-law Jeffrey Haxer and Kyle Winkelman; and grandchildren Tristan, Lucas, Evelyn, Eleanor and Zoe Victoria. A wake is scheduled on Friday, September 2, at the A.J. Desmon & Sons Funeral Directors, 2600 Crooks Rd.,Troy, Michigan. Visitation is from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm EDT. The memorial mass is slated for Saturday, September 3, at their parish, St. Hugo’s of The Hills, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303. (Ryan Tejero and Emraida Kiram contributed to this press statement.)
Bob Santos, Seattle’s beloved community activist, dies at 82 SEATTLE — Bob Santos, 82, known affectionately as Uncle Bob and the Unofficial Mayor of Seattle’s International District, died Saturday, Aug. 27, after being hospitalized in recent weeks. A popular community activist, Santos was part of the so-called Gang of Four, who mobilized Latinos, African Americans, Native Americans and Asian Americans to fight for jobs, affordable housing and services for Seattle’s communities of color. In the course of his civil rights activism, Santos was arrested six times. He became executive director of InterIm (International District Improvement Association). Later, he was appointed by the Clinton administration as the Pacific Northwest’s Housing and Urban Development director. Santos is survived by his wife, State Representative Sharon Tomiko Santos, 5 children, 19 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. His wife, Sharon Tomiko Santos, is a Democratic Washington state representative. The son of Filipino immigrant Sammy Santos, of San Mateo, Rizal, and a Native American/
Bob Santos, the Unofficial Mayor of Seattle’s International District, passed away at 82. Wikipedia photo
Filipino mother, Virginia Nicol, Bob Santos was born in Seattle in 1934 and grew up in the city’s Chinatown. He served in the U.S. Marines after high school in the early 1950s and returned to Seattle in 1955 to work for Boeing. Washington’s Gov. Jay Inslee released a statement Sunday “Washington is a better state because of Bob Santos’ passion
for justice. Bob was a forward thinker. His early days as an activist with the ‘Gang of Four’ helped bring communities of color together in one unified voice to fight for equal rights. “Washington’s strong API community is a testament to his leadership and commitment to mentoring. Trudi and I send our thoughts and prayers to his wife, Rep. Sharon Tomiko Santos, his family, and his friends. His passing is truly a loss but his legacy will live on.” Seattle Mayor Ed Murray also released a statement: “Michael and I were heartbroken to hear of today’s passing of ‘Uncle’ Bob Santos, one of our city’s great community leaders. Bob Santos touched countless lives across every race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and age in Seattle. He was everyone’s ‘uncle’ because of his universal and unwavering friendship, and he was a hero to many marginalized Seattleites who he tirelessly advocated for. I have been fortunate to have worked with him on many of these issues for over two decades.” (Inquirer.net)
Duterte, Obama expected to talk drugs… PAGE A2 t
The court’s decision found that Chinese activity within and near the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) illegally interfered with the island nation’s petroleum exploration and fishing operations. Sovereign rights over Panganiban (Mischief) Reef, Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal and Recto (Reed) Bank were awarded to the Philippines. The PCA ruling also declared the contested Scarborough Shoal a common fishing ground over which no country could assert exclusive ownership. The court’s award is legally binding, however the PCA lacks any method to enforce its ruling. Chinese officials dismissed the court’s authority, and had refused to participate in the UN’s hearings. They also blamed the Philippines for stirring up trouble by filing for international arbitration rather than pursuing resolution via direct bilateral negotiations. Chinese vessels continued to
bar Filipino fisherman from sailing into the shoal for over two months after the PCA released it’s announcement. The Duterte administration has shied away from bringing up the UN tribunal’s ruling in diplomatic interactions with China in order to prevent violent confrontation. On Monday, Duterte reiterated his intention to repair ties and avoid war with China. ““I’ll keep silent now, and the ambassador is there. But I will state my case before you,” said the president on Monday. “I will never bring the matter, because it might lead only to the suspension of the talks with China.” On Tuesday, August 30, Abella told CNN China had agreed to begin allowing Filipino fisherman into Scarborough Shoal. In addition to the Philippines, other ASEAN countries Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia and Brunei have competing territorial claims over the South China Sea. Unfiltered comments Duterte has refused to apolo-
gize to U.S. officials for deriding US Ambassador to the Philippines, Philip Goldberg, for being a “son of a b*tch” and “a gay.” “Why would I apologize? Siya mismo nag-una (He started it first),” said the president. The president accuses Goldberg of having meddled in the Philippine general election last May when he condemned comments Duterte had made regarding the rape of an Australian missionary during a 1989 prison break, when Duterte was mayor of Davao. On Monday, August 8, the US State Department summoned Philippine Embassy Charge d’Affaires Patrick Chuasoto to clarify comments that American officials called “inappropriate and unacceptable.” Duterte has downplayed the significance of his off-color statements, focusing instead on the whirlwind of internal and global developments shaping the early days of his presidency. n
Paynor named PH ambassador to…
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Macapagal-Arroyo and Benigno S. Aquino, III. He also served as Arroyo’s presidential assistant for state and foreign visits. Born and raised in Baguio, Paynor was the director general of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2015 National Organizing Council and has served Philippine diplomatic posts in countries, including Israel and Cyprus. Although it is the president who appoints ambassadors, Duterte said Paynor’s new post still needs to be approved by the congressional Commission on Appointments. Paynor, whose previous
appointments included Consul General in Los Angeles (2002-2006) and San Francisco (2007-2014), will replace former ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia, Jr. Before his foreign service career, Paynor was a military officer. He graduated from the Philippine Military Academy in 1971 and retired in 1983 with the rank of lieutenant colonel. According to a news report from Inquirer, Duterte earlier offered the position to current Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. However, Lorenzana declined, asking the president to reconsider his age. The president also offered the
same post to former Defense Secretary Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro who turned down the offer as well. Meanwhile, the president said he is eyeing Robert Borje to take over Paynor’s post as the new protocol officer. Borje was previously the second secretary at the Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the United Nations (UN). “I have one nominee, I don’t know if he’s qualified, Borje,” Duterte said, as reported by Rappler. Borje, a former newscaster in Davao, is the son of retired Commodore Adolf Borje of the Philippine Navy. (By Dana Sioson / AJPress)
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Dateline PhiliPPines
5-year-old girl youngest victim in PH drug war
climbs higher and higher.” According to the Philippine National Police (PNP), there have A FIVE-year-old girl has be- been a total of 1,916 drug-related come the youngest fatality in killings since Duterte’s inaugurathe ongoing drug killings in tion on June 30. Approximately the Philippines, Human Rights 756 of those killings were suspects Watch (HRW) reported on Fri- pursued by the police while 1,160 of them were “unsolved killings.” day, August 27. Duterte has encouraged the Local police said that kindergartener Danica May Garcia was public to do anything to stop the having lunch with her family in the Dagupan, Pangasinan when two unidentified gunmen on motorcycles opened fire. HRW said the likely target was her grandfather, Maximo Garcia, who had turned himself into the police three days prior to clear his name; he was later returned to his family. “We are still investigating the real motive, but since Maximo Garcia surrendered last Friday for drug use, we have reason to believe the attack was related to his drug activities,” Dagupan police chief Neil Miro told CNN. Maximo Garcia was shot three times and is currently in the hospital under police watch. Danica May was shot the same day that Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre defended President Rodrigo Duterte’s vision for ridding the country of illegal drugs. “Desperate times call for desperate measures,” Aguirre said. “So this is what the president is doing and we support it.” HRW has repeatedly denounced the violence ensuing in the war on drugs. “Aguirre’s perverse endorsement of extrajudicial violence as crime control suggests that Danica May is unlikely to be the last child victim,” Phelim Kine, deputy director of HRW’s Asia Division, said in a statement. “Each day, the death toll from the government’s ‘war on drugs’ by Klarize
MeDenilla AJPress
INSTANT BRIDGE. Pedestrians use a plank of wood to cross a flooded portion of Quirino Ave. in Manila. The southwest monsoon spawned heavy rains that drenched Metro Manila and other areas in Luzon on Friday and Saturday. ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma
De Lima files last-minute petition opposing Marcos burial by Dana
SioSon
AJPress
SENATOR Leila De Lima filed a 38-page petition on Tuesday, August 30, against the burial of late and former president Ferdinand Marcos at Heroes’ Cemetery, a day before the Supreme Court’s (SC) set date for the oral argument regarding the issue. De Lima, a staunch critic of President Rodrigo Duterte, argued that “no President has the power to rewrite history.” “The Honorable Court must not allow the judgment of history and of the Filipino people to be frustrated and thwarted by letting Marcos be honored in a state funeral and burial among heroes,” the petition read. “Otherwise, the spectacle we will witness is not only the state funeral of the dictator and tyrant Marcos, but the burial of our own history as a nation, together with the memory of the real heroes who truly shed their blood for the freedom and liberty of the Filipino people.” The senator also argued that Marcos’ interment at heroes’ cemetery “would go against the very spirit of the 1987 Constitu-
tion and the will of the Filipino people that ratified it.” De Lima insisted that the burial is actually poison to the country’s “history and humanity,” rebuffing the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG)’s earlier statement that said, it “shall promote national healing and forgiveness.” “This supposedly benign and even beneficent act of so-called ‘reconciliation,’ no matter how those who support it may attempt to paint it as such, is as close to being wholesome and salubrious as sugarcoated arsenic to our hard-earned history, humanity, our democratic way of life and future,” she argued. The SC earlier issued a status quo order, effective from August 23 to September 11, that halts Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana’s memorandum. The memorandum, dated August 7, informed Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Ricardo Visaya of Duterte’s verbal order on July 11 to prepare for Marcos’ hero’s burial. “As a former soldier and former president of the Philippines, I see nothing wrong in having Marcos buried at the Libingan ng
mga Bayani,” the president said on August 7. Since Duterte’s announcement, petitions opposing Marcos interment were filed by critics before the court. The first petition filed was led former congressman and martial law-era political detainee Satur C. Ocampo; the second by former congressman Edcel C. Lagman; the third by former Commission on Human Rights chairperson Loretta Ann P. Rosales; the fourth by former senator Heherson T. Alvarez; and the fifth by University of the Philippines student Jesus N. Falcis III. The oral argument was scheduled to take place on Wednesday, August 31. n
illegal drug cartels. In June, he announced, “Please feel free to call us, the police or do it yourself if you have the gun...you have my support.” The rising number of killings has raised concerns from human rights groups around the world as well as the United Nations, which has planned to investigate the killings. n
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Edified
ARTICLE III Section 4 of the Philippine Constitution states that “No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances.” This is recognized to give people a conducive environment for participation and to allow them to contribute to development, democracy and dialogue. On July 25, President Rodrigo Duterte signed the executive order on the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill before he delivered his first State of the Nation Address (SONA). The measure aims to promote transparency in the government and let people have access to information regarding the government’s transactions and processes by making federal documents more available to the public. If enacted, the FOI bill would grant Filipino citizens the access to any information held by a government agency on matters of public concern, such as documents on government expenditures and the bidding of government projects. However, this progressive measure has its limits. Based on the recommendation of the Dept. of Justice (DOJ) and the Office of the Solicitor General, Malacañang’s draft of the Freedom of Information (FOI) act manual lists 166 exceptions, including those involving national security, executive privilege and invasion of personal privacy. Gone are the days of secrecy and authoritarianism. Filipinos deserve the truth, and they now
have the power to sway the future of this country to the right direction— through a transparent and accountable government leadership. What’s left is a law to protect it. According to Inquirer, the list of exceptions include “matters that may put at risk national security and the state’s external and internal defense, as well as information on foreign affairs which may jeopardize diplomatic relations or weaken the government’s position in ongoing negotiations. “Also on the list is executive privilege involving information on the President’s appointing, pardoning and diplomatic powers. Minutes of decision-making and policy formulation meetings, which the President considers privileged, are also included. Data that may compromise military or police operations and immigration controls and border security, or put witnesses in danger, are also excepted.” As contentious as it is, the passage of the FOI bill is covered with greater enthusiasm, both from its representatives in the government and Filipino citizens. It will be subjected to healthy (if not heated) debate for sure. But if the Philippines is to continue its positive streak on good governance,
Editorial
ManilaTimes.net photo
this is a welcome development in fostering public awareness and participation in nation building. Filipinos people are not denied the chance to witness the progression or regression of what the current administration. Thanks to this measure, civic participation is encouraged now more than ever.
A transparent government allows information about its policies and its implementations to be accessible to the public. In turn, an informed public allows for a more dynamic participation in policy discussions and elections. More than that, it allows people to keep the government in check. (AJPress)
Kababayans comment on Duterte’s controversial and bloody war on drugs
EVEN U.S. President Barack Obama has raised concern about the recent statements of Philippine Pres. Rodrigo Duterte and his war on drugs, which has already claimed the lives of more than 1,800 people since Duterte took office. Obama is set to meet with Duterte in Laos next week to talk about the alleged issue of human rights violations with the Philippine president who has blatantly said “No one can stop me!”, when confronted with criticisms and questions on his controversial fight against the drug menace in the Philippines. Many kababayans in the Philippines — who are opposed to Duterte’s means to achieve his end of eradicating drugs and criminality in the country — have been criticizing Filipinos in America who support Duterte’s policy and action. Duterte won by a big margin in North America in the May 2016 Presidential Elections. In a recent viewer poll of The Filipino Channel’s daily newscast “Balitang America,” a big majority (75 percent) of those who voted agree with Duterte’s “shoot-to-kill order,” which grants the right for police officers to kill drug dealers, pushers and traders who resist arrest and fight back violently. Here are some of the comments of kababayans shared about this contentious issue, which have been presented and edited for clarity: “It’s a question of tipping point of the Filipinos before they resist the killings. Maybe the 1,900 is still too small. And maybe the respondents are too far [from] or are not connected [to] the people liv-
ing in the slums who got hit by vigilantes and police.” — Ago The Fil-Am Pedalizo “Well what did you expect? Perspective Of course, there will be casualties on both sides. It’s war. on drugs. casualties of war. for the greater good.” — JP Pat “The problem is not that Gel sanTos-relos good cops kill the drug users or drug dealers, but the corrupt cops that need to silence their distributors, their users, the pushers they protected or else they will be reported on. Also, the problem with the law is when there are corrupt lawyers and judges in the system that dismiss the criminals cases. Where were the human rights advocates when there were innocent people getting robbed or killed by users or dealers...if the dealers or users were innocent, they would not put up a fight let alone start shooting at cops, but comply like those that volunteered to surrender. By fighting with cops, it shows an admission of guilt and places good cops lives in danger. What about the human rights of the good cops or good politicians that have been killed by the bad people. You must realize there are people that don’t want to make the Philippines a better country. Look at Japan, Korea, and some other countries that are now thriving. Wouldn’t you want to be proud [of the] Philippines to get out of third world country status? And as Duterte said why doesn’t Human rights talk about the war in Syria or Iraq or even the innocent African Americans that are shot and
are already having hands up or have done nothing wrong and get killed for no reason? Double standards?” — Gerald Cabildo “Everyone wants drug pushers and other criminals off the street. But, we are a society of laws. I believe due process should be observed. However, if the suspects resist arrest and fight back that could endanger the lives, not only of the police officers, but the innocent bystanders, then yes, I agree with it. Sadly, that is not what I see happening right now. Suspects are killed even when they are not fighting. Most of the extra-judicial killings recently were done execution style. Extrajudicial killings create opportunities for corruption, abuse of power, and brutality because cover ups happen, no clear evidence is presented, and there simply is no check and balance.” — Roselle Alejandro Enriquez “Yung mga nahuhuling Chinese at mga ibang mayayaman na drug lords buhay pa...pero yung mga mahihirap at tunay na mga biktima ng droga yun ang mga shoot to kill...bulok na sistema!” — Renz Epilef “How do you know kung nanlaban ang mga tao’ng pinatay? Bitayin ang ang lahat na drug lords at mga kriminal, wala akong paki doon. Pero bakit si Peter Lim buhay na buhay pa? Selective due process ba? Wow! Point ko lang...Addiction is an illness na dapat gamutin, to make it fair and square. Dapat isali na rin d’yan ang mga adik sa sugal,
adik sa alcohol, adik sa pain medication, at adik sa sex (mga tao’ng mahilig manghalik,mambabae at maraming kalaguyo)...kung sa palagay ninyong makatwiran ang nangyayari ngayon. At isa pa... ang rapist,nakadrugs man o hindi...kung may pagkakataon,mangre-rape pa rin!” — Lawrence Enriquez “Economic consequence [of Duterte’s war on drugs]? Peace and order if achieved will invite more investors, incite OFWs to go home. More new hires for BPO industry...as Filipinos now can trust the police and feel safer than ever.” — Percy Flores “My thought is that: none of us have the right to even comment as we all see what is going on as by standers...not unless of course, if we put ourselves into the shoes of parents and families that have been victims for over 3 decades at least in living and accepting graft, corruption, drugs, mass killings by private armies, etc. Sad to say, since most of us Filipinos grew up with this hopeless society, it is now embedded in our mind and heart -- accepting that it is now a culture of the Filipinos living this way. Either another big cathostrophic [event] happens or this BIG change is now happening for a BIG change. There is something deeper going on is this plan for change in our beloved country, the Philippines.” — Erich Joseph Alcedo *** 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
Can DU30 run the nation without headlines?
ASIDE from the summary drug killings, Opinion which, according to TIME magazine, have now reached 1,800, President Rodrigo Dutertes problems have been the result of careless words rather than Francisco TaTad concrete official deeds. In his first two months in office, he has talked through the oftentimes mindless and undiscriminating media, using inappropriate language to bludgeon some of his more unwelcome critics. These include the Ambassador of the United States, the UN rapporteur on summary executions, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and the chairperson of the Senate committee on justice and human rights. He apparently enjoys the thunder of his expletives, and their effect on the media and the public, and has not noticed their apparent overuse. He has apologized to the Chief Justice for his rash statement threatening Martial Law if the police were required to produce warrants before going after drug suspects. He has assured the UN that his threat to withdraw from the world body because of its “meddling” in the summary killing of drug suspects was nothing but a poorly delivered “joke.” But he has refused to apologize for calling the US ambassador a “gay…son of a bitch.” And he remains locked in a propaganda war with Sen. Leila de Lima on her current Senate inquiry into the drug killings on the one hand, and
on the other hand her alleged involvement in the drugs trade at the New Bilibid Prisons when she was still Secretary of Justice. Public opinion appears split between DU30 and de Lima at this point, but unless he has her formally charged with actual drug dealing, (assuming he has evidence that will stand in court), his continuous exposé on her supposed involvement in the drugs trade, including her alleged “sexcapades,” will end up being treated as blatant propaganda, and there will be no valid reason for anyone to demand that she terminate her ongoing inquiry into the drug killings by the police. Moving past the drug killings Clearly, there is need for DU30 to move past the drug killings, and past the use of invective and foul language to deal with nay-sayers, skeptics and critics. If the war on drugs is to continue, and many believe it should, serious effort must be exerted to go after the producers, manufacturers, financiers and mega-distributors of drugs, rather than just the petty pushers in the slums and the ghettoes. The war on drugs must also expand into a war on other crimes—smuggling, illegal gambling, prostitution, money laundering, human trafficking land grabbing, etc. But first of all, the summary killings must stop. Since none of the killings
could still be undone, the government must make sure that those guilty of any unjust killing are prosecuted and punished under the law, and the victims properly remunerated and indemnified. Beyond this, the government must create an adequate rehabilitation program to address the case of the 700,000 or so drug users who have surrendered to the police. The accent must shift from the killing of drug suspects to the rehabilitation of drug users, who are not necessarily criminals but unfortunate addicts. They are not necessarily blameless for their own conditions, but they need help, more than punishment. The government must recognize substance abuse not necessarily as a crime but rather as a disease—one that can be treated and cured. As one medical doctor says on Facebook, the government must show its belief that human beings, imperfect as they are, are redeemable until their very last breath, regardless of how they had lived their lives. The current war on drugs provides the government the opportunity to show this. DU30 must metamorphose now In keeping with his promise to “metamorphose” from a caterpillar to a butterfly upon his assumption of the presidency, DU30 should now transition, with finality, from the rustic candidate who thrilled his audiences with the vulgar speech of the barroom, the dockyard, the cockpit or the fish market, into the people’s President who needs no vulgarities to lead 102 million Filipinos toward an unobstructed view of the
future that lies ahead. Although 22 years of being mayor of Davao City may have kept him away from cosmopolitan society and the familiar norms of diplomacy, he is a highly intelligent man who needs no rigorous mentoring to adapt to the conduct and discourse of the presidency. Where Talleyrand saw Napoleon as one so highly intelligent yet so poorly educated, I see DU30 as both highly intelligent and educated, except that he sometimes seems to want to play the clown or the buffoon, at his own expense. In Cabinet meetings, he has been photographed bowing in mock obeisance to Leni Robredo, the vice president. It’s time for him to be much more serious about the presidency. Drug critics not the real enemies The first thing he needs to do is to have a clear-headed view of the forces that support and the forces that threaten his government. The threat to his presidency is not coming from those who are telling him the summary killing of drug suspects is wrong, and that there is a better policy. Amnesty International is not wrong when it describes the summary killings as “lawlessness” rather than crime control, and recommends an independent commission to handle human rights abuses committed by the police and vigilantes in the antidrugs campaign. In the Marcos era, the Church-Military Liaison Committee was tasked to look into such abuses, and did a fairly creditable job of monitoring and reacting to reports of forced “disap-
pearances.” In one particular instance, however, the Committee just lost track of a Jesuit priest and a religious sister. They just disappeared one day, and despite persistent denials, the Marcos government was blamed for their disappearance. A few years later, they surfaced in Utrecht as a couple. After 1986, I had occasion to participate in a conference on forced disappearances in Singapore. I was in the company of experts, including a Filipino bishop who continued to have strong feelings about Marcos. After I spoke about the couple, the conference chair asked the bishop: “Did the religious community know that the couple had gone to Utrecht?” The bishop replied, “Yes, of course.” Why then did you not make it public, instead of blaming the government?” “We did not want to help Marcos,” the bishop said. Something similar to that committee may be considered by the present government. But certain threats seem to lurk in the shadows, probably unrecognized by the new government. I had a sense of this after former Senator Juan Ponce Enrile and I appeared at a “Kapihan with Samahang Plaridel” at the Manila Hotel last Monday morning. We were asked questions on the war on drugs and the Marcos burial at Libingan ng mga Bayani. Enrile was most emphatic in supporting DU30’s war, saying the President
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SUPREMO. Visitors pose for photos before a monument to Katipunan leader Andres Bonifacio in Maragondon, Cavite, the site where he was allegedly ordered executed by the revolutionary government of Emilio Aguinaldo in 1897. ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma
Can DU30 run the nation without…
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was simply discharging his constitutional duty of providing order to protect the citizens. He said DU30 had every right and duty to use the police and the armed forces, if necessary, to suppress lawless violence. On the Marcos burial, Enrile and I agreed that under the law, there should be no obstacle to Marcos’ remains being finally interred at the Libingan. Duterte himself has expressed full support for it. PNoy’s hidden hand Enrile and I faced a battery of ten to 12 unblinking TV cameras during the interview, which lasted more than one hour. But someone who monitored the media play after the interview, even up to the next two days, failed to see a slice of footage of our taped conversations. We had been thoroughly censored. Normally, one suspects the government to be behind any such censorship, especially when the content of the taped material is critical of the government. In this particular instance, our views on the issues coincided with those of the government. There was absolutely no reason for Malacanang or any of its agencies to black out this particular material. A source close to the Palace has revealed that a pro-Aquino group operating under former Budget Secretary Butch Abad was responsible for the operation. The same group is reported to be behind rallies against the war on drugs staged yesterday in front of the Philippine embassy in Washington, D.C., and the Philippine consulates-general in New York and San Francisco, as well as a plan to stage rallies in front of the Philippine embassies and consulates
abroad on Sept. 7, protesting the burial of Marcos’ remains at the Libingan. The Supreme Court has temporarily deferred action on the burial, at the instance of several oppositors. The Court said it needs a little more time to study the matter. The law on the burial is very clear, but a lot of extraneous matters have been introduced into the discussion. Among them is Republic Act 10368, otherwise known as the Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act of 2013, enacted without public debate during PNoy Aquino’s term in 2013. This law punishes as a violation of human rights any search, arrest and/or detention without a valid search warrant, including any warrantless arrest or detention during Martial Law, from Sept. 21, 1972 to February 25, 1986, by persons acting in an official capacity and/or agents of the State… It appears to be an ex post facto law, meaning “a law passed after the occurrence of a fact or commission of an act, which retrospectively changes the legal consequences or relations of such fact or deed.” (Black’s Law Dictionary). There is no move to declare this law unconstitutional, but unless this was done, the next administration could enact a similar law against DU30. These are some of the things DU30 should think of even now. But what’s happening on the international front—both in terms of diplomacy and the media—deserves his utmost attention. His projected trip to Laos, Brunei and Cambodia next month offers him the opportunity to see that there’s a much bigger world beyond Manila and Davao, where one need not shock and awe to make a point or create headlines. (fstatad@gmail.com)
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A AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 2, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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agcaoiLi Philstar.com
LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 2, 2016
B
7!2.).' TO
(OMEOWNERS
by Lawrence
MANILA, Philippines — Travelers to and from the Philippines would be allowed to bring in and out as much as P50,000 worth of legal tenders starting next month, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said on Friday, August 26. BSP officer-in-charge Vicente Aquino issued Circular 922 series of 2016 announcing the amendment of the rules on cross-border transfer of local currency. “A person may import or export, or bring with him into or take out of the country, or electronically transfer, legal tender Philippine notes and coins, checks, money order and other bills of exchange drawn in pesos against banks operating in the Philippines in an amount not exceeding P50,000 with-
3TOP STRESSING EVERY MONTH WITH PAYMENTS YOU CANNOT AFFORD ,OWER MONTHLY PAYMENTS BY OR MORE TYPICAL 2EDUCE INTEREST RATE WITHOUT REFINANCING 2EDUCE PRINCIPAL BALANCE IF QUALIFIED !PPLY EVEN IF YOU VE BEEN DENIED BEFORE OR APPROVED AND THEN DEFAULTED AGAIN Travelers to and from the Philippines would be allowed to bring in and out as much as P50,000 worth of legal tenders starting next month, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Friday, August 26. Philstar.com file photo
The circular is set to take efout prior authorization from the fect 15 days from publication in BSP,” Aquino said. According to Aquino, amounts a newspaper of general circulain excess of the limit would re- tion. The higher limit also applies quire prior written authorization from the BSP. u PAGE B2
PH seen overtaking Thailand in motorcycle sales by 2020 by richmond
S. mercurio
Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine motorcycle industry seeks to race past Thailand in terms of sales by 2020 behind sustained strong appetite of Filipinos for two-wheeled motor vehicles. The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association (MDPPA), the premier group of motorcycle manufacturers in the Philippines, said motorcycle sales
in the country is seen expanding to 2.5 million units by 2020. “By 2020, we see around 2.5 million units. Factors that would drive growth are the need for increased mobility and affordable financing. Using motorcycles as a means of transport is economic and sensible than using public transport in the long run, at least for the next four years or so,” MDPPA president Rodel Pablo told The STAR. Such acceleration of motorcycle sales is expected to position
the country second largest in Southeast Asia, behind Indonesia and ahead of Thailand. “Yes, that is possible and note that Thailand has only 70 million population. In fact, maybe even by 2018 (we can overtake them already),” MDPPA chairman for government committee Alfredo Lejano said. Thailand’s motorcycle sales have declined 15 percent in 2014 and further slipped four percent to 1.64 million units last year,
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818-408-6717
B AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 2, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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EVA revealed to be world’s 3rd most loved airline TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Global airline quality ratings website SKYTRAX scored EVA Air as the world’s third Most Loved Airline. SKYTRAX invited travelers to rate overall flight experiences among more than 420 carriers worldwide and ranked the Most Loved Airlines on an aggregate of those passenger scores. Travelers can learn more about EVA and the quality service that sets it apart or book flights at www. evaair.com. Of the World’s Top-10 Most Loved Airlines, eight are Asiabased. All 80 of the airlines on SKYTRAX’s Most Loved list received a minimum of 225 reviews and traveler scores. Using a scale of one-to-10, travelers rated their flights in eight categories, including seat comfort, onboard services, food and beverages, inflight entertainment, onboard Wi-Fi, airport services and value for the money spent. Garuda Indonesia is number one based on an 85 percent satisfaction score, Asiana Airlines, second with 83 percent and EVA third at 81 percent. Quality service with emphasis on passenger comfort is an EVA priority. It makes consideration, interaction and mindfulness key to frontline delivery on the ground and in the air. SKYTRAX elevated EVA to the elite ranks of the world’s 5-Star Airlines earlier this summer. The quality-focused website began rating EVA in 2008, immediately awarding it four stars and recognizing the airline’s high product standards and
‘Energy security vital to Duterte’s economic plan’ Reliable, affordable power to attract big investments—Citizen Watch, Stratbase
by Aberon
VoltAire PAlAñA ManilaTimes.net
EVA Elite Class Flt Attend entertains boy with pilot bear.
staff services across different cabin classes inflight and at the airline’s main hub, Taoyuan International Airport near Taipei. SKYTRAX also ranked EVA number one for Best Airline Cabin Cleanliness in 2015, Best Trans-Pacific Airline and Best Business Class Comforts and Amenities for 2016, and one of the World’s Top-10 Best Airlines for 2015 and 2016. AirlineRatings.com recognized it as a carrier of choice among the World’s Top-10 Airlines for 2015 and 2016 and rated its Elite and Economy
Classes in the world’s top-10 “best for economy plus and economy class travel for 2015.” Travel + Leisure readers ranked it among the World’s Best Top 10 International Airlines in 2012 and 2016. EVA Air, a Star Alliance member, is known for high service and safety standards. The carrier was established in 1989 as Taiwan’s first privately owned international airline. It is part of the respected Evergreen Group and a sister company to global container-shipping leader Evergreen Line. It flies a fleet of
more than 70 Boeing and Airbus aircraft to over 60 destinations throughout Asia, Oceania, Europe and North America where gateways are Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, Toronto, Vancouver and, starting on Nov. 3, Chicago. With just one easy stop in Taipei, travelers can connect onward to most major cities throughout Asia, including 30 destinations in Mainland China. Travelers can learn more about EVA’s schedule and book and buy tickets at www.evaair.com. (Advertising Supplement)
ENERGY security is crucial for the success of the Duterte government’s economic agenda and this can be met by encouraging investment in infrastructure that could expand access and provide affordable and reliable energy for all, according to consumer advocate group Citizen Watch and the Stratbase ADR Institute. ”The success of President Duterte’s economic agenda will directly be affected by the ability of the government to provide reliable and competitive electricity prices that will encourage the influx of big investments in infrastructure and job intensive industries,” Citizen Watch organizer Paco Pangalangan said. At a recent forum held in Manila, government energy officials presented their new energy plan to various stakeholders and energy experts. At the forum, Department of Energy (DOE) Undersecretary Wimpy Fuentebella said that the DOE will focus on quality, reliable and affordable supply, and crafting a balanced energy mix. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Committee on Economic Affairs, said, “Building a stable and sustainable
energy supply will be critical to achieving industrialization, dignified domestic jobs, bolstering household incomes, improving consumer welfare, and fostering sustainable inclusive economic growth across the entire Philippines.” Meanwhile, House Committee on Energy chairman Lord Allan Velasco emphasized the need to reduce the heavy tax burden on the energy sector. Quoting data from the DOE, Velasco showed that royalty taxes, the value-added tax, universal charge, and feed-in-tariff are taxes that are all passed on to the consumers and push up the final cost of electric service. “The energy tax is another such burden on consumers. It is our legislative priority to make our electric power rates more affordable to create a conducive environment for manufacturing and commercial businesses, and to ease the burden on Filipino households,” said Velasco. Pangalangan supported Velasco’s point, saying that, ”The findings and recommendations of the DOE Task Force to Study Ways to Reduce the Price of Electricity show that the energy sector is overtaxed. Hence, an immediate review is needed to support the President’s directive to rationalize our tax system.” n
Lapu-Lapu is new business hotspot by CAtherine
tAlAVerA ManilaTimes.net
PROPERTY listing site Lamudi Philippines has tagged LapuLapu city in Cebu as the next tourism and business hotspot in the province, driven by its buoyant economy and rising number of tourist arrivals. In a statement, Lamudi Philippines highlighted the city’s tourism growth potential mainly driven by its airport and tourist attractions. It cited data from the Department of Tourism (DOT) which reported that tourist arrivals in Central Visayas reached 3.5 million for the first ten months of 2015. “According to the DOT, Cebu Province as a whole accounted for 64 percent and 84 percent of total domestic and foreign arrivals, respectively, to Central Visayas. This amounts to approximately 2.5 million tourists during the 10month period,” Lamudi said. It noted that Lapu-Lapu City accounted for majority of the foreign tourist arrivals, while Cebu City hosted most of the local visits. Cebu’s gateway One factor that may have influencing tourist arrivals is accessibility to the area, as Lapu-Lapu City is home to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the country’s second busiest airport. Lamudi noted that the said air-
port is becoming Cebu’s gateway to the rest of the world as it operates regular scheduled flights to Asian cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Singapore, Seoul, and Dubai. It also operates daily non-stop flights to Los Angeles, offered by flag-carrier Philippine Airlines. Lapu-Lapu City chief tourism officer Hembler Mendoza noted that the city is home to various tourist spots including 11 marine sanctuaries, bird and other wildlife sanctuaries, white-sand beaches, high-end hotels and resorts, and world-class dive sites. “The city also offers leisure attractions not found in other parts of Cebu Province, such as sunrise tours aboard a yacht and flight adventures, not to mention that there are 79 hospitality establishments in the city (and one on Olango Island) offering approximately 5,000 room inventories,” Lamudi said. Business prospects Aside from its potential tourism market, Lapu-Lapu city also offers a promising business climate to companies. The city reported that the number of business establishments in the city surged to approximately 12,000 in 2014 from about 7,000 in 2010. “In addition, the local government reported that the city’s
u PAGE B5
PH seen overtaking…
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data from the ASEAN Automotive Federation showed. Philippine motorcycle sales, meanwhile, have been blazing as it bucked the regional downtrend in 2015 to end as the region’s sole growth motorcycle market with an eight percent year-onyear growth. As of the first half of the year, the Philippine motorcycle industry was able to sustain its growth momentum and emerged as the fastest growing market in the region, registering a 42.4 percent year-on-year sales jump. Despite the high growth rate, MDPPA said there remains plenty of room for progress for the industry given that the motorcycle ratio in the Philippines is still at 20:1 compared to 4:1 in some countries in the region. The group sees total industry sales for the motorcycle segment accelerating between 1.4 million to 1.5 million units by year-end
from last year’s 1.1 million to 1.2 million units. Of that number, MDPPA member companies are expected to contribute a little over one million units. MDPPA members which include Honda Philippines Inc., Kawasaki Motors Philippines Inc., Yamaha Motor Philippines Inc., Suzuki Philippines Inc. and Kymco Philippines Inc. account for 70 percent of the country’s total motorcycle sales. Aside from its robust motorcycle industry, the Philippines is also poised to become a major automotive market in Southeast Asia by 2020 as domestic sales are expected to continue posting stellar growth while local production is seen ramping up with the government’s Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy program. For the automotive sector, industry sales are projected to reach 500,000 units by 2020. n
Travelers now allowed to… PAGE B1 t
to electronic transfer or the system where the authority to debit or credit an account whether bank, business or individual is provided by wire, with or without a source document being mailed to evidence the authority. Likewise, the peso amount of the International Passenger Service Charge (IPSC) refunded to outbound exempt passengers is not included in the limit during the implementation of the refund of travel, airport, and other trade related taxes. The BSP has been implementing a series of foreign exchange liberalization measures in an effort to bring the public back to the banking system. Aside from the increase in the limit for travellers, the central bank also raised the ceiling wherein Philippine residents could purchase up to $500,000 in
foreign exchange instead of the previous limit of $120,000 without supporting documents. For companies, the limit was higher at $1 million. Likewise, the Monetary Board has approved the lifting of prior BSP approval and registration requirements for loans to be obtained by (NBQBs) from offshore sources, offshore banking units, and foreign currency deposit units (FCDUs) of banks. BSP Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo earlier said the new policy would facilitate borrowing transactions of NBQBs to fund their operations and projects and better contribute to economic growth. The BSP has been adopting measures to ease foreign exchange and documentary requirements on sending money abroad to lure depositors back to the banks. n
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Minding Your Finances Atty. RAymond BulAon WHEN people are going through financial difficulty and are unable to pay their bills, their first reaction is often to ignore their debts and avoid contact with creditors. They think that by doing this, somehow the creditors will simply give up and go away. Bad news: This rarely works. Then one day they get a summons delivered to their home or work and that’s when they start to panic after learning that they’ve been sued. The next step of course is a wage garnishment, a bank account levy, a lien against their real property or any combination of the above. That’s when they rush to see a bankruptcy attorney to find out what can be done to protect themselves. Painful consequences can result from non-action. But I do understand that sometimes, people just get so overwhelmed with their problems that they are paralyzed by fear. The fear of the unknown, the fear of making changes in their lives or some-
Community Journal
Face debt problems now to avoid pain later times, , the fear of making those difficult decisions that they’ve been avoiding to make. I know because I see it all the time. But the reality of it is that if there are dreadful consequences to not facing your debt problems, you will either face them now or later, it’s just a matter of time. So how do you start to tackle the problem when it seems so enormous that you almost feel like giving up before you even start? How do you get out of debt if you are currently feeling trapped in your situation with no way out? There basically only 4 ways to get out of debt if you’re on the verge of insolvency: (1) increase income so you can start paying larger amounts on your debts to hopefully avoid filing bankruptcy, (2) reduce expenses so that you can increase your disposable income and have more money available for debt repayment, (3) Convert assets you don’t need into cash and use the money to negotiate with creditors, and (4) File bankruptcy to wipe out debts or consolidate your bills (This re-
quires filing either a Chapter 7 or a Chapter 13). If you’re feeling paralyzed by debt and can’t think clearly at the moment, you need a good attorney who can properly evaluate your situation and recommend possible solutions. The first thing you need to do when you don’t know what to do is to realize that sometimes, you cannot do it on your own. There is nothing wrong with getting legal help. The sooner you get help, the sooner you would be able to protect your home, your job, your car, your bank account and other assets. For more information and to schedule a free consultation, please call TollFree 1-866-477-7772. We have offices in Glendale, Cerritos and Valencia *** None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully helped thousands of clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call Ray Bulaon Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1 (866) 477-7772. (Advertising Supplement)
Atty. Kenneth uRsuA Reyes
What to do with conditional green card status in troubled marriages
MARRIAGE for many persons is the culmination of one’s life. Getting married signifies the beginning of a new phase in life, both socially and economically. For those persons who lack permanent residency in the United States and have married a United States citizen, marriage also presents an opportunity to obtain permanent residency. However, although the opportunity to obtain permanent residency arises in such situations, one must be aware of and comply with procedures in existence to obtain such status. Due to concerns that persons were becoming married to United States citizens merely to obtain permanent residence status, a two-step procedure under the Immigration Marriage Fraud Amendments of 1986 (IMFA) was set up to ensure such status was given to those only in marriages that are bona-fide and not entered into simply for immigration purposes. Under step one of the procedure, if a person is petitioned by his/her U.S. citizen spouse within 24 months after becoming married, that person is given only conditional permanent residence. Such conditional permanent residence status lasts for two years from the date on which it is granted. Step two of the procedure involves the removal of the conditional label to permanent residence status. Removal of the
conditional label is initiated by filing an I-751 Joint Petition to Remove Condition to Permanent Residence (“Joint Petition”). The Joint Petition provides an opportunity for the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) to inquire as to the legitimacy of the marriage after conditional permanent residence is granted. Accordingly, documentation evidencing that the marriage was entered into for bona-fide reasons should be submitted as part of the Joint Petition. The Joint Petition must be filed with the USCIS service center in the 90 days immediately prior to the second anniversary of the granting of conditional permanent residence. Typically, upon the filing of the Joint Petition, a one-year extension of the conditional permanent residence is granted. The extension affords the USCIS time to schedule an interview with the person seeking permanent residence, and to make a determination as to whether unconditional permanent residence will be granted for a ten-year period. In cases in which documentation submitted as part of the Joint Petition clearly show that the marriage is bona-fide and not merely for immigration purposes, INS may approve a Joint Petition without an interview. The procedure described hereinabove applies in situations where the marriage has not been
Barrister’s Corner
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond monette AdevA mAglAyA (Part 2 of 2)
WHILE we may think we can choose to play God and decimate our own humanity in the name of a woman’s right to choose or in the name of scientific research, God alone gives the gift of life and He chooses when and how to take it away. That must have been the deal from the beginning of time. How special is man in the scheme of creation? Consider the big picture. Some wise person once said that if the beginning of time till now can be thought of as a 24 -hour day, the spark of life that is human life today only came to be in the last 2 seconds before the stroke of midnight. As best as our most brilliant scientific minds through the centuries can figure out, the universe is about 15 billion years old and our sun which was born in the last 4.5 billion years with yet another 5 billion years or so left before it dies, is a common yellow star that makes it possible for man, the highest form of life as we know it, in the solar system, to live on planet earth. We seem to take it for granted that it took a really long time, before man, in his present form, became the crowning glory of creation in this neck of the woods of the physical universe. Although this can sometimes be debatable when we come to realize our individual and collective stupidities throughout history. Man is a thinking, feeling, spiritual being in physical form, capable of so much good or of so much evil. In between these two extremes are the obscure multitudes, who in their lifetimes, come to learn, appreciate, enjoy and fight for that gift of life to
terminated. Often, the Joint Petition cannot be filed or approved because the marriage, although bona-fide when entered into, has been terminated by divorce. May aliens become threatened of falling out of status once their marriage is in trouble because the spouse often refuse to cooperate or has filed a divorce petition. In such cases there is still hope and the prospect of obtaining unconditional permanent residence status still remains. A waiver of the joint petition requirement may be sought in such cases. *** 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)
Take a stand, you all! Fight for dear life “… We seem to take it for granted that it took a really long time, before man, in his present form, became the crowning glory of creation in this neck of the woods of the physical universe.” continue for generations yet to come. Of course, along with that gift of life comes the gift of free will and therefore, the opposite can also be true. We can choose to do nothing and allow the terrifying prospect of abortion, death and decay to overcome and overwhelm us. Sometimes, we feel that by ourselves alone, we are powerless to stop this horror from being indelibly imprinted into the fabric of our lives. But together as one voice, countless silent prayers by steadfast, faithful prayer warriors are sent heavenward by millions, maybe even billions, among us who believe in the power of prayer. Our prayers are heard and miracles rain down upon us in our time of need. When we assault heaven with our prayer arrows, the Spirit comes and moves the chosen ones to action, those special human beings, a bit larger than life, who can lead and make the world turn on its axis for humanity to do God’s will. In 2008, New York’s Cardinal Egan wrote, “…We are rightly worried about a country that is so casual about the destruction of innocent human life and indifferent about the attacks on the institution of marriage. The time has come for Americans to get on their knees and beg Our Father for mercy for our Nation.” The cardinal released a photo of a 20-week old unborn child together with his letter. He then
asked all to look at the photograph and ask themselves if there is any doubt that the picture is a human being. He closed his letter with these powerful words asking: “Do me a favor. Look at the photograph again. Look and decide with honesty and decency what the Lord expects of you and me as the horror of “legalized” abortion continues to erode the honor of our nation. Look, and do not absolve yourself if you refuse to act.” The Lord told us in 2nd Chronicles: “If my people, upon whom my name has been pronounced, humble themselves and pray, and seek my presence and turn from their evil ways, I will hear them from heaven and pardon their sins and revive their land.” The consequences of doing nothing and allowing the horrible evil of abortion to continue unchallenged, are dire. CHOOSE LIFE. Along with free will, nothing in our physical world can be greater. If God himself in His infinite love, so valued human life that he sent His only Son in human form, for the ultimate sacrifice to save man for eternal life, where do we get the gall and the temerity to think any less of it? Who do we think we are to even think that we can choose to take it? *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com
LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 2, 2016
Calendar of Events across
B
America
ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS SEPTEMBER 1
Startup Business Expo Tour (with Tagalog translation) Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti’s Office in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration invites you to the 2016 Startup Business Expo Tour. The series of events is intended to help startups, small businesses, entertainment and production companies, food services, event planners, home-based businesses, entrepreneurs, fashion & beauty businesses, e-commerce, accounting services, cleaning services, consultants, childcare and more! Topics include: starting a business in LA, predicting your financial future, choosing a legal entity & access to capital. This event will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 6313 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Ste. 2140, Woodland Hills, CA 91367. The event is FREE & open to the public. There will also be free food & refreshments for participants. To RSVP, please visit www.startuptourla.com.
SEPTEMBER 3
Filipino Association of Leisure World Annual “Luau” The Filipino Association of Leisure World will hold its Annual Hawaiian Luau at the LW Hall (1232 Golden Rain Rd. Seal Beach, California) on Saturday, Sept. 3. Music will be provided by Willie Manacsa & The Midnight Motion Band. Please call the president of the association, Ren Villanueva at (323) 854-6209 for other related questions.
S E P T E M B E R 9 -1 7
42nd annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Peñafrancia United Bicolandia Los Angeles (UBLA) invites everyone, Bicolanos, devotees and friends to come and celebrate the 42nd annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, Patroness of the Bicol Region. The festivities will start on Sept. 9, with the translacion at 5pm at the Immaculate of Mary Church (4954 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90029. A nightly novena Mass follows from Sept. 9 to Sept. 16 at 6 PM except on Saturday, Sept. 10, at 3:30 PM and Sunday, Sept. 11, at 2;30 PM and culminates on Saturday, Sept. 17, with the ninth day novena at 8am, foot & fluvial procession at 9 AM, and a Concelebrat- ed Mass at 10 am at Lincoln Park, 3501 Valley Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90031. Main celebrant will be HE Most Rev Arturo Bastes, Bishop of Sorsogon. For details, please call Lanie Ber- rei (818) 281-3169 or Gene Leano (818) 439-6896.
SEPTEMBER 10
17th annual Asian Small Business Expo The Asian Small Business Expo is the only business-to-business expo that engages the Asian business community and brings this growing economic force into the mainstream to connect and utilize your company and its services. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with small businesses, market your organization and tap into a network of entrepreneurs, service providers, financial organizations, franchises and governmental and legislative representatives. Admission to the expo is FREE! It will be held on Saturday, Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Almansor Court Banquet & Conference Center, 700 S. Almansor St., Alhambra, CA 91801. To register, please visit: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/annual-asian- small-business-expo-tickets-23824155691. Walk-ins are also welcome on the day of the expo. For more information, please visit www.apisbp.org.
SEPTEMBER 16
CAC to celebrate Town Fiesta The Cabatuan Association of California will celebrate their Annual Town Fiesta in honor of their Patron Saint, San Nicolas de Tolentino on September 10, 2016 with a mass at 11:00 am at Nati Matitu-Mercado’s residence - 15255 Knapp St. North Hills, CA, 91343. Please invite four friends and relatives. Music will be provided by Willie Manacsa. For other inquir- ies, please call Esoy Tavarro, president, (714) 797-0073; Sally Bilbao, adviser (951) 878- 5589; Boboy Mosqueda, adviser (714) 519-8973; or Nati Matitu-Mercado, adviser at (818) 894-5142.
SEPTEMBER 17
Lorenzo Ruiz: A musical play On Saturday, September 17, the St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Parish Community will present a musical play entitled Lorenzo Ruiz: the First Filipino Saint. This play will star Mat Ranillo III, a Filipino TV, film and stage actor. Purchase your tickets today, for a donation of $20 for one event or $25 for both events. Seats are limited so get your tickets early. For ticket sales, please contact St. Lorenzo Ruiz Parish office at (909) 595-9545. St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Parish Community is located at 747 Meadowpass Rd., Walnut, California 91789.
S E P T E M B E R 23
AAPA’s leadership symposium Join the Asian American Professional Association (AAPA) for an all-day event from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. with exceptional and diverse keynote speakers and panelists, as well as multiple workshops on diversity and leadership topics. The symposium is open to everyone, and will be held at the Pacific Palms Hotel, 1 Industry Hills Parkway, City of Industry, CA 91744. For more information, please visit http://aapamentoring.com/.
S E P T E M B E R 24
8th Regional Celebration of the Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz The Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the San Fernando Region invites everyone to the 8th Regional Celebration of the feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz, the First Filipino Saint. Festivi- ties will be on Saturday, September 24, 2016, at this year’s host parish, Holy Family Church - Glendale (209 East Lomita Avenue, Glendale CA 91205). Procession starts at 4:30 PM , then Mass at 5:30 PM with Most Reverend Oscar A. Solis DD, Auxiliary Bishop of Los Ange- les, as Principal Celebrant. Reception , fellowship and program will immediately follow at the Holy Family Grade School Auditorium across the church. For more information, please contact Ping Bayani at(913) 558-4332 or bayani0950@yahoo.com.
S E P T E M B E R 25
FAPCCA Media Awards The Filipino American Press Club of California invites you to The First FAPCCA Media Awards Gala Night 2016 at Glendale Hilton Hotel, 100 W. Glenoaks Blvd, Glendale CA 91202, Sept. 25, 2016 Sunday 5pm (www.facebook.com/fapccamediaawards/) Tickets: $65/person includes dinner and entertainment. Call: 626.475.3052; 310.600.9913;8 18.357.4566 or pay by Paypal at www.paypal.me/fapcca (please indicate the amount, number of tickets, name, mailing address and cell number on the Special Instruction field). FAPCCA Contact Persons: Chairperson Thelma Calabio - 301.600.9913; President Andy Z. Edralin - 626-475-3052; VP Isidric Panganiban - 818.357.4566; Treasurer Christie Rosacia -818.451.6606; Auditor Sonia Bermejo - 818.653.3177; Joe Cobilla - PRO - 323.804.9959; Director Rose Sarreal 213.321.1119
S E P T E M B E R 29
Bataan Legacy Historical Society multimedia presentation Bataan Legacy Historical Society, a non-profit educational 501(c)(3) organization, will hold a multimedia presentation at the San Francisco Asian Art Museum from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, please visit www.bataanlegacy.org.
O c TO B E R 8
25th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) The Association for the Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) is proud to announce the date & venue for the anticipated Silver Anniversary edition of its annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture. FPAC 25, the 25th Annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC), will take place Saturday, October 8 at the beautiful Echo Park Lake. Admission is FREE. The popular festival, the City of Los Angeles’ Filipino American Event, is the longest-running Filipino cultural celebration in Southern Califor- nia. Audiences can expect to enjoy traditional and contemporary Filipino food, music, dance, crafts and culture. This year’s theme, “Samu’t Sari: Showcasing the Diverse Creative Tapestry of the FilAm Community,” lends its meaning to the Tagalog phrase which loosely translates to “diversity.” While certainly a hot topic in today’s society, FilAm Arts focuses on the vast contributions of Filipino American artists to the creative tapestry of the City. For more information, please visit www.filamarts.org or call 2133803722. For sponsorship and vendor opportunities, please email info@filamarts.org.
If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com
B AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 2, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
Debt Relief Atty. LAwrence yAng CLIENT is 47, single and a registered nurse. Her income is good at $80K a year. She has no dependents except her mom who lives with her. Despite her good income, she has a default on her mortgage for $50K. She had an affair with a married man who promised her that he would divorce his wife and marry her. That never happened. But what did happen was, client had given the guy about $50K in cash for his various business endeavors ( so he claims), all of which failed so he never paid her back for the $50K. Where did client get the $50K? Instead of paying her back the $50K which she had lent to him in the name of love and romance, truth be told, she didn’t really care if she paid her back. She just wanted to be his “mujer,” his woman. The guy must have been the male version of Anna Nicole Smith who was playboy playmate of the year in 1993 when she met the man of
EMPLOYMENT
Community Journal
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Bank forecloses on client’s house despite Chapter 13 filing Seniors choose Chapter 7 to discharge $30K and $10K credit cards
her dreams, well let’s just say a half a century older than the man of her dreams, the 90-year-old billionaire J. Howard Marshall. She eventually filed for Chapter 7 in Los Angeles because of a lawsuit against her for $40M. Her husband died a year or two after they wed, from exhaustion from you know what, and left her nothing in his will. Instead, he left his $1.6 B fortune to his eldest son with his first wife. The bankruptcy judge in Los Angeles believed her testimony that she loved her husband and that her husband had orally promised her “half his fortune, if I married him.” The bankruptcy judge nullified the will and awarded her $500M of her husband’s fortune. Then everybody died. First Anna Nicole Smith’s twenty year old son with her first husband died from a drug overdose. Then Anna herself died soon after her son’s death from overdose of prescription drugs and grief from her son’s death. Then the 67-year-old son of Marshall died from an “aggressive infection”. Eventually the U.S. Supreme
Court ruled that the Los Angeles bankruptcy judge had no jurisdiction awarding Anna $500M of Marshall’s estate because that was not a bankruptcy issue. So, the $500M owner is the estate of the Marshall’s 67-year-old son who died. So what good does chasing money do for you when death surely “comes like a thief in the night” (1 Thessalonians 5:2). We don’t know the day and the time or hour of our death, do we? You can be a 4 year old having a good time in Disney world when out of nowhere a six foot alligator drags you into the water and you die. Or, you can be a twelve year old thinking you are about to be thrilled at the most awesome water slide in the world but in the next few seconds your head will be severed from your body. Youth does not guarantee that you will not die. We all know this. You can have $6B and own the largest tech company in the world with products the entire world wants, but with all your billions at your disposal, you’re not able to save yourself from dying from pancreatic cancer like Steve Jobs. Was
EMPLOYMENT
it within his great wealth and power to invent a man made pancreas to save himself? So, great wealth, power, even absolute power cannot save you from certain death. Only Jesus Christ has proven God’s power over death as He resurrected on the third day from his death on the cross 2000 years ago on Mt. Calvary, and before that, He resurrected many people from the dead. You don’t want to die and end up some place you don’t want to be, just because you believed in a false god, do you? The time to decide is now, when you are still alive and still possess your wits about you. This is a lot more important than your life insurance. This is insurance for your soul for eternity, which does not cost you anything except the right choice. Ok, have it your way, die and go straight to hell and share your cell with Hitler. Is this what you really want - eternal damnation because you made the wrong choice? You don’t even have a tenth of the brain of Stephen Hawking, the alleged smartest man on this earth, and even Mr.
Hawking with all his super duper brain power, cannot cure himself of Lou Gehrig’s disease and is permanently immobile.h The first commandment of the Ten Commandments states, “I am the LORD thy God, who brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. The shalt have no other gods before me.” Yes, Yahweh, Adonai, El Elohim, El Shaddai, Jehovah, He is the ONE TRUE GOD! He sent His one and only beloved son Jesus Christ to die for us so that we can have eternal life with them in paradise. What a wonderful God He is! Almighty and all loving! Client came to see me a day before her auction sale date. We did an emergency filing on the same day to stop the foreclosure. But the bank nevertheless foreclosed on client’s house and shortly thereafter filed a lawsuit for eviction. Is that foreclosure valid, no way Jose! That foreclosure was in violation of the bankruptcy automatic stay, therefore null and void. So, we filed an answer in state court saying the foreclosure was null
EMPLOYMENT
SERVICES
and void, and we filed a motion in bankruptcy court to have the court order the reversal of the foreclosure sale and fully expect that client will win on both. She will keep her house, but not her lover, who has dumped her for another good income lover, this time, he has hooked up with a medical doctor who is a general practitioner. What’s with women nowadays? We are about to have the first woman president of the United States of America, Hillary, as you know, I’m with her. But in this day and age, women still believe they need to be married to a guy to make them happy even if they have achieved so much success in their lives. Did Wonder Woman ever get married to Batman? I don’t think so. The next client is 55 and married. She has $30K of credit card debt. She lost her job 2 years ago and is now self-employed in a multi level business. It’s not doing that great. She makes about $1K a month. That’s just enough to cover monthly minimum payments on the $30K credit cards.
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What is new for 2016 education tax credits
What’s New Arlene Al-os, CPA, MBA (Part 2)
FORM 1098-T from an eligible educational institution is REQUIRED for 2016 TO CLAIM the American Opportunity Tax Credit AOTC (previously Hope Scholarship Credit), Lifetime Learning Credit LLC, and Tuition and Fees deduction. Here are some tax tips to benefit from these credits in 2016 • Additional criteria must be satisfied for these refundable credits. • Must receive Form 1098-T Tuition Statement from an eligible institution by February 1. • Rules for these credit: must have paid for qualified education expenses for higher education, student must have enrolled at eligible institution, and student can be yourself, spouse or a dependent on your tax return. • Qualified education expenses are payments for tuition fees and required student activity fees. • Not qualified for education expenses: room and board, insurance, medical expenses or student health fees, transportation, personal, personal or living expenses.
• For AOTC only. Qualified education expenses include payments off campus or not paid to the school but a student course of study requirements: books, supplies, equipment, and required course book. Must include the employer identification number EIN for any institution to which qualified tuition and related expenses have been paid. • The annual maximum AOTC per eligible student is $2,500 for the first 4-years of higher education extended through December 31, 2017. If you do not owe tax, up to $1,000 is refundable. • For LLC only. Qualified education expenses include payments for acquiring or improving student’s job skills: expenses for sports, games, hobbies or noncredit courses. These expenses DO NOT qualify for tuition and fees deduction. • The annual maximum LLC per eligible student is $2,000 and there is no limit on the number of years. • If the student withdraws, any amount not refunded, you can claim for the credit. • Eligible Institution. Schools and institutions offering higher education beyond high school like college, university, vocational school, post secondary run by
K-1 visa – The fiancé visa for spouses of US citizens SKT Immigration
eliot Krieger CONGRATULATIONS! You have just been engaged to the man or woman of your dreams, who happens to live in another country. As a United States (“U. S.”) citizen, you are now confronted with the problem of how to reunite with your significant other in the U.S. One option for bringing your fiancé to the U.S. is the K-1 fiancé non-immigrant visa, which applies to couples who are not yet married. The basic eligibility requirements for a K-1 visa are: • The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen; • The petitioner and fiancé must intend to marry within 90 days of the fiancé entering the United States; • Both parties must have legal capacity to marry; and • Both parties must have met each other in person within two years before the petition is filed. The application process involves the U.S. citizen petitioner filing a nonimmigrant visa petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of the K-1 fiancé. Current USCIS processing time for petition for an alien fiancé is approximately six months. After USCIS approves the petition, the K-1 fiancé can apply for the K-1 visa at the U.S. Consulate Office or Embassy abroad. Once the K-1 fiancé ob-
tains the visa, he/she is admitted to the United States for a 90-day period. This period cannot be extended – the fiancé must marry the U.S. citizen petitioner during that period or depart the United States. Failure to abide by the terms of the K-1 visa would constitute a violation of status. Once the marriage is finalized, the K-1 fiancé may file an adjustment of status application in order to obtain his/her green card. However, please note that the K-1 fiancé’s adjustment of status application is only permissible if it is based upon the marriage contracted within the 90 days allowed under the K-1 visa. The greatest advantage of the K-1 visa relates to separate children of the principal K-1 fiancé. Unmarried children under 21 may accompany the principal K1 fiancé to the United States as derivative beneficiaries in K-2 status. The child may also follow-to-join the K parent after the parent has already traveled to the United States, and the child may seek admission into the United States only after the K parent has first been admitted. The seasoned attorneys at SKT can help you select the best visa option and guide you through the K-1. ***
Eliot Krieger is a Partner at Sullivan, Krieger, Truong, Spagnola, and Klausner, LLP. He is a former Assistant United States Attorney with the United States Department of Justice. He has a Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Website: www.sullivankrieger.com Contact us at any of our offices: Long Beach + 1 (562) 597-7070 Irvine + 1 (949) 390-5270 Philippines + 63-2-788-5196 (Advertising Supplement)
Lapu-Lapu is new business… PAGE B2 t
revenue surged 50 percent to P1.4 billion, from P927 million in 2010,” Lamudi said. Meanwhile, it underlined the growing interest for residential properties in Lapu-Lapu City as it emerged as the second most searched location in the Central Visayas region. The property listing site said that combined search volumes for houses and condominiums (both for sale and for rent) in Lapu-Lapu City increased by 21 percent from the first quarter to the second quarter of 2016. “In addition, looking at compound average growth rate using search data from the first six
months of 2016, condos for sale and condos for rent have the highest growth rate in search volume, at 9.69 percent and 10.91 percent, respectively,” Lamudi said. With the optimistic outlook for its business and tourism markets, coupled with growing interest for residential properties, Lamudi Philippines projects the presence of more real estate developments in Lapu-Lapu City. “Over the next few years, the city will see the opening of BPO offices, mixed-use townships, and resort-oriented developments, which will bring in more employment opportunities to the citizens of Lapu-Lapu City,” Lamudi said. n
Bank forecloses on client’s…
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Community Journal
If her husband was still working, she could probably stay afloat, but husband was also terminated recently from his $60K job with a large company. He’s tried to look for an equivalent paying job but all he could get are minimum wage jobs that do not use is skill or experience. There are lots of jobs in food service but he doesn’t want those jobs. So he decided to take early retirement. He’s resting for a year and will claim early retirement next year at 62. Not a bad plan. Fortunately, they have adult children who are helping them out. So, the only problem now is to discharge her $30K of credit cards. No doubt, Chapter 7 is the right solution. The third client is 65 but still works. He owes only $10K credit cards. But at his age, every dollar counts. He is now on Medicare, which comes in handy for his pre-
scription drugs for diabetes and hypertension. But he still works his full time job, which pays him $2K monthly. Not much, but it helps. Wife used to work as a caregiver but her patient just died. Client opts for Chapter 7 to discharge $10K of credit cards. It’s the right decision. “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the alimighty, who is, who was, and who is to come! You are the alpha and the omega, the beginning and the end. Heaven and earth are full of your glory!” — Revelation 4: 8
*** 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)
the U.S. Department of Education, accredited public, nonprofit and privately-owned-for-profit postsecondary. The school is eligible if on the U.S. Federal Student Aid Code list. If not on the list ASK the school, it may still be an eligible institution. • Identification requirements is stricter. No credit allowed if you fail to include the qualifying individual’s name and tax identification number. The tax identification number must be issued on or before the due date for the filing of the return for the tax year. • You cannot claim the higher education tuition deduction in the same tax year that you claim the AOTC or LLC or if anyone else claims the AOTC or LLC for the student in the same tax year. • Use Form 8917 to calculate and claim for tuition and report on the taxpayer’s return. • None of these credits or tuition and fees deduction is available you are married filing separate. 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. ***
LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 2, 2016
B
People and Events
Make it easy to import the right way
LONG BEACH, Calif. – As a public service, the E.C. Ferrer Custom House Broker, Inc. is sponsoring a half-day seminar for importers, entrepreneurs, distributors, wholesalers and retailers on Oct. 26 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Marriott Hote on 4700 Airport Plaza Dr. in this city. Complimentary breakfast will be served after the registration. After 31 years in the industry, Eddie C. Ferrer and his team have gained valuable insight and expertise that they want to share these knowledge with the business community in Southern California. As a top honcho of his brokerage and forwarding firm since 1985 in partnership with the U.S. Customs, it has become his mission as a Fil-Am entrepreneur to educate importers to “make it easy to import the right way.” In the past few months, many changes have taken place in the U.S. Customs and Import industry. This free seminar will update the industry players about the Customs Reauthorization Bill, the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT), Safety of Life At Sea (SOLAS) and Customs Automated Commercial Environment to name a few. Sy Al-os Accountancy Corporation provides As of this writing, various accounting and tax services to individuals, members of the main players corporations, LLCs and business entities. like various Fil-Am Chambers of The Firm has a niche in defending taxpayers Commerce have signified their audited by the IRS and other governmental interest to participate in this rare agencies. (Advertising Supplement) seminar that is also aimed at im-
proving and maintaining balance of trade and commerce with the U.S. in an unimpeded flow of products and goods from the Philippines and other countries.. Various topics that will also enlighten importers include recent rules of engagements from Food & Drug Administration, Federal Communications Commission Federal Maritime Commission and Department of Agriculture, Environmental Protection Agency, among others. This free seminar is open to all nationalities. Accommodation is limited between 50 to 70 participants on a first-come, first to register basis. Precise and pertinent information from a panel of seasoned customs and import pro-
fessionals will serve as resource speakers. The information will be presented in timed, concise and practical methods to allow more question and answer. E.C. Ferrer CHB, Inc. which was founded in 1985 is a member of National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) and Los Angeles Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (LACBFAA). Interested parties may fax their letter of intent to 562-4225593 or call or register with Jackie M. Ferrer at 562-422-6492 or jackie@ecferrer.com or Eddie C. Ferrer at 562-841-5381 or ecferrer@ecferrer.com or Bong Soriano at 909-851-1493. n
B AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 2, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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The Asian Journal
MDWK
Wednesday, August 31, 2016
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cover story The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 31, 2016
Illinois Judge Jessica A. O’Brien:
A cOurtrOOm trAIlBlAzer by Klarize Medenilla / AJPress
J
essicA A. O’Brien broke many barriers on her journey to becoming the first Filipina-American judge in the circuit court of cook county in 2012. Before that, at John Marshall Law school, she was the first student to graduate with a J.D./L.L.M joint degree in Tax Law. Most recently, O’Brien became the first Asian American woman to become president of the Women’s Bar Association of illinois (WBAi), an organization that has been around for over 100 years. But the first time she ever saw a courtroom was as an acting litigator working for a midsize firm. she usually handled the transactional side, but one day she was asked to do some litigation, the process of bringing a civil case to either a trial or resolution. she was understandably nervous. “i get to court, and prepare to read my speech the attorneys told me to read, but the judge never looked at me!” O’Brien recalled during a recent interview with the Asian Journal. “This is the first time i’d ever been in court since i graduated from law school. i got so prepared and
was so nervous, but not once did the judge ever look at me. He said some things to the other attorneys, and it was done. i never got to say anything.” That experience — among others — laid the foundation for O’Brien’s eventual return to the courtroom, this time, as a circuit court judge for cook county in illinois, the second-most populous county in the U.s. after Los Angeles county. Four years in, she enjoys all aspects of running a small claims courtroom; she even writes most of her own opinions simply because she likes to be thorough. But her journey to that position took several twists and
O’Brien with her husband and three daughters.
Vicente turns. VilNo lage, a direction quiet town O’Brien, in Mandaue born Jessica city, cebu. One of the Arong in cebu city in 1968, didn’t have any set aspira- defining moments of her life tions during her childhood, much was when she got held back in third grade for skipping class too less picture herself as a judge in a small claims court in the United often, saying she did so because she felt “intimidated” by the states. she had a comfortable other students. But the stigma upbringing, growing up in san associated with being held back made her insecure about her intelligence. “i would tell my grandma i didn’t want to go to school, and she would just let me. But it ended up doing more harm than good,” O’Brien said with a laugh. coming to the United states wasn’t something she wanted to do, but after high school, her mother insisted that she migrate. in retrospect, she’s relieved she followed her mother’s wishes. “The best thing that ever happened to me was coming to the U.s. because before that, i never had any direction,” O’Brien said, adding that she Photos courtesy of Jessica A. O’Brien didn’t have much guidance
PLAY NOW TO DECEMBER 18
growing up. Lessons in relationshipbuilding Upon coming to the U.s., she enrolled in community college. Because of her high school grades, she was placed in remedial courses, which didn’t do much for her morale, but she pushed through. she then got accepted to Boston University, completing her bachelor’s of science in hotel and food management. “i thought [hotel and food management] was complimentary to my personality. i believe in building relationships, and, in fact, i think most Filipinos are great at relationship-building,” O’Brien said. she began working at caesars in Atlantic city, New Jersey, but shortly after, she began a semester studying culinary arts at Le cordon Bleu in London, an experience she will never forget. “it was much harder than law school,” O’Brien said. she likened the experience to military training, where the teachers would tear down the students to encourage them to do better. The teachers yelled at her and would disparage her to
which she cried every day, she recalled. “People need confidence to do what they’re doing,” she said. “You need to be careful with what you say to people because it affects them. But i can say that my experience in the culinary arts prepared me for law school.” After Le cordon Bleu, O’Brien returned to a previous position at caesars in Atlantic city. in six years, she worked her way up the ladder to become responsible for over 1,000 employees and management. But she felt like she needed to leave Atlantic city, and she told her mother that she wanted to go to law school. Getting the ground rolling so she did. shortly after, she began her studies at John Marshall Law school in chicago. in the middle of her studies, when she got pregnant with her first child, she began to excel because she “felt like i had a reason to do well in life.” she became the first student to graduate with the J.D./L.L.M joint degree in 1998. After passing the bar exam Continued on Page 5
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The Asian Journal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 31, 2016
Gabby Concepcion’s daughter wins Miss Earth Sweden 2016 title By Joseph
Enrique Gil and Jake Cuenca were among 40 Star Magic artists whose drug test results were ‘100-percent negative.’
Star Magic artists test negative for drugs And what of John Lloyd Cruz and Daniel Padilla?
by Tessa
Mauricioa-arriola ManilaTimes.net
Shortly after President rodrigo Duterte confirmed that he also has in his possession a list of celebrities involved in both drug use and/or drug peddling, speculations as to which famous names figure on the list quickly spread like—well—illegal substances. While most hunches have generally been made via day-today whisperings among tinsletown insiders, and as blind items in several tabloids, top ABS-CBN actor Enrique Gil was explicitly named in a certain column as part of Duterte’s list. Gil has recently been seen in the prime time drama Dolce Amore, across leading lady liza Soberano. the pair forms the widely popular “lizQuen” tandem both in television and film. Alarmed over such damaging accusations, the Manila times learned that ABS-CBN’s talent management arm, Star Magic, who sees to the careers of Gil and most of the network’s prized and upcoming artists, quickly mounted a supervised drug testing effort over the weekend to belay rumors of illegal substance abuse in its community. In a statement sent via text message, Star Magic reported, “results were 100-percent negative for Jake Cuenca, Enrique Gil, Diego loyzaga and the rest of the Star Magic artists [who took the drug test].” A total of 40 talents volunteered to test for drug use, but
John Lloyd Cruz and Daniel Padilla were not among the first batch of artists who underwent drug testing, both busy over the weekend with prior committments.
the official list of names is still unavailable to media as of press time. the statement ended with the company’s pledge to support the administration’s unwavering war against drugs: “Star Magic believes in the efforts of the current campaign to keep our homes and working environments drug free.” JL and DJ In an effort to give two other major celebrities whose names have also emerged in this controversy the opportunity to clear their reputation, the Manila times asked a reliable source within Star Magic if John lloyd Cruz and Daniel Padilla had submitted themselves for testing. Cruz—a multi-awarded movie actor who is often considered the best in his generation—while known to keep a very private life has long been written about for drinking escapades, some of which have ended in notorious squabbles. More recently, several blind items have heavily suggested he is also into drugs.
alMer B. pedraJas AJPress
SWEDISh-Filipino-American model Cloie Syquia Skarne — the daughter of Gabby Concepcion and half-sister of KC Concepcion — won the Miss Earth Sweden 2016 title at the Miss Universe Sweden pageant on Sunday, August 28. the pageant was held at the Café opera in Stockholm. on her Instagram account, Cloie expressed gratitude towards people who had been with her before she was held as Miss Earth Sweden. “I’m MISS EArth SWEDEN 2016! thank you to those who have supported me and believed in me. I would not have been who I am today without you. thank you @aumauricio for my hair and makeup and @gakuyabykimgan for my gorgeous gown,” the beauty queen said in an Instagram post on Monday, August 29. Meanwhile, KC Concepcion
on the other hand, there are rumors that Duterte supporter and action star robin Padilla requested the President to hold off on releasing the list of celebrity drug users because his nephew Daniel is allegedly on the list. Without confirming or denying any knowledge that the two celebrities are involved in any way with illegal substances, the Manila times source simply said that Jl and DJ—Cruz and Padilla’s respective monikers in the biz—had been busy over the weekend. “they are both Star Magic artists,” the source categorically stated. “But Jl had previous commitments out of town when the testing took place; as well as DJ who had shooting schedules for [his upcoming movie] Barcelona.” the source quickly added, “For the record, the 40 artists who volunteered to be tested for drugs just comprise the first batch; Star Magic is committed to hold further drug testing for its artists.” Georgina Wilson shows off her baby bump.
Miss Earth Sweden is KC Concepcion’s sister, Cloie Syquia Skarne.
congratulated her half-sister on her twitter account by saying, “her childhood dream has finally come true! Congratulations to my sister @CloieSyquiaS = MISS EArth Sweden!” the reigning Miss Earth Sweden is set to compete at Miss Earth 2016 in the Philippines this october, and will be up against other candidates,
Photos posted on her Instagram account
including Filipina Imelda Schweighart of Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Cloie’s competitor Ida ovmar, who is from the city of luleå, won the coveted Miss Universe Sweden title and will compete for the Miss Universe 2016 crown, which will be held in the Philippines in January 2017.
Georgina Wilson confirms pregnancy thE cat is now out of the bag! A photo confirming that Georgina Wilson is indeed pregnant has surfaced online. Aside from the photo, the lifestyle portal has also shared a video of Georgina admitting the pregnancy in an exclusive interview with raymond Gutierrez for her new reality show on E! Philippines, “It Girls.” “It’s funny because you think you you can plan life but life just has a mind of its own...and it’s just so exciting,” quips the model. A few months ago, many have suspected that the “It Girl,” who recently married British businessman Arthur Burnand, is pregnant with their first child. the rumors came after a Snapchat clip from Isabelle Daza’s account showed Georgina sporting what seemed to be a baby bump. (Philstar. com)
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features
The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 31, 2016
The Madz wave Philippine flag after winning the Grand Prize in Italy
Photo by Alfred John De Veyra
Choirmaster Mark Carpio receives the Grand Prize Photo by Alfred John De Veyra
UP Madrigal Singers win Grand Prize in Italy Famed choir sweeps awards in prestigious Europe competition
Arezzo, Italy— U.P Philippine Madrigal Singers swept the award categories and emerged the Citta D’Arezzo Grand Prize Winner, which qualifies the choir to compete next year for the much-coveted european Grand Prix for Choral Singing (eGP). Waiting with bated breath were 10 choirs who had been competing in grueling rounds in the previous days. The U.P Philippine Madrigal Singers (aka Philippine Madrigal Singers) emerges as the Grand Prize winner of the 64th Polyphonic International Competition Guido d’Arezzo. The “Madz”, as the choir is referred to by its fans, bested choirs from France, Slovenia, Iceland, Italy, Sweden, Bulgaria and the Ukraine, Aside from winning the Grand Prize, the Madz garned the following awards: 1st Prize in Compulsory Program (required competition pieces), 1st Prize in Musica Sacra, 1st Prize in Monographic Music (where the group performed original choral works by Madz resident composer and current member Matthew Ily Maniano), 2nd Prize in Secular Music and Special Listening Committee Awards in Folk Song, Pop, and renaissance Performances. Touted as the group whose supreme artistry allows them to sing anything and everything with equal aplomb, the Madz
The Madz in a victory group hug
is now eligible to compete for its 3rd european Grand Prix (eGP)in Tolosa, Spain in 2017. They are the only Philippine Choir to have won this prestigious award, and the only choir in the world to have won twice. Founder Andrea Veneracion (National Artist for Music) led the choir at the first eGP win in 1997. Current choirmaster Mark Anthony Carpio took the helm in 2001 and continued the Madz legacy of choral excellence and ushered the choir’s way to its 2nd eGP in 2007. Carpio is a respected faculty member of the University of the Philippines and a highly-recognized choral adjudicator for his achievements. Since its inception in 1963, the 53-year old choir has
Photo by Alfred John De Veyra
spawned hundreds of alumni choristers, who rallied via online chat as the announcement in Arezzo was being made, delivered via live feed from Madrigal Alumni based in europe. Candy Cauilan, Madz alumna and impresario in the choral world of Italy provided the live video. Up to the minute announcements were reported by Alfred John De Veyra, Madz alumnus and author of the commemorative book “The Madz.” Los Angeles will be host to the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers on December 11, which is part of the American leg of its europe-USA Tour. For early Bird reservations and tour inquiries, please email info@ musicartsevents.com, text or call (818) 587-6123.
features
Illinois Judge Jessica A. O’Brien: a courtroom... From Page 2
she worked for a midsize firm, where she encountered that judge that ignored her. After that fateful event came another. As she left the courtroom, she miraculously ran into an old college friend who offered her a job at the Department of Revenue in Chicago. she served as a special assistant attorney general, litigating cases involving corporate, partnership and individual income and sales taxation. Then came a vacancy in the circuit court in 2010. The only Asian American judge on the bench and O’Brien’s mentor sandra Otaka passed away in 2009, and the Illinois supreme Court had put a non-Asian as her replacement, much to the dismay of the Asian American community. O’Brien, however, did not agree with that sentiment, arguing that there were no Asian American candidates who were submitted applications to be vetted. “I am a big advocate for diversity. I think it’s important, but at the same time, I also believe that it has to be based on qualifications. I don’t believe in that,” O’Brien said. This inspired O’Brien to take action and to prove her qualifications. In 2010, she made a last minute decision to run for that vacant position, five days before election Day. she ended up not getting enough signatures and never made the ballot. “I don’t know why I did it, but I did it,” she laughed, calling the decision to run that first time “stupid.” Second time’s a charm But come the 2012 election, O’Brien was more prepared. Although she didn’t get slated by the Democratic Party — since she had ran against their opponent for signatures in 2010 — she gave it her all. Despite running without the official support of the party, O’Brien, one-by-one handpicked her committee to generate support for her campaign. she gained the support of two powerful politicians who got her “perfect,” uncompromised door-
to-door signatures to put her on the ballot. Again, relationship-building was key in her campaign strategy. she personally met with as many groups as possible including the African American, Latino/Hispanic and the LGBT communities as well as organizations like labor groups. she even went the extra mile to reach out to groups in her opponents’ hometowns. “It was important to me that every single group heard from me and understood where I was coming from,” she said, adding that honesty and humility helped win over many groups. she won by a large margin and with that win, she had a feeling of redemption. she was running against candidates that had been slated by the Democratic Party, meaning she had to garner support on her own. she described it as “working against the machine” and when she won, she felt that she’d proven all the naysayers wrong. But most importantly, she felt that it was a win for the team and not just for her, and that’s what made it special for her. “It’s hard to explain,” she said of her feelings after she won. “you start to think, you didn’t do it alone. you did it with so many people. you know you brought all these people to help you, but really you know, too, you could never have won without them. It’s almost like it’s their accomplishment. That’s what made me happy because they were so proud of it and it felt like I was making them happy because they have this accomplishment where they can say, ‘I ran this campaign.’” A courtroom of her very own Today, O’Brien runs her courtroom with the intention of her long-lived value of relationship-building. she takes pride in what she does, but will not sacrifice her duty to be cordial, citing her experience working in the hotel industry. “I look at my position as an opportunity to be a part of the system that works,” O’Brien said. “I go back to that first experience in the courtroom when that
judge didn’t look at me. when you come into my court, I will always say ‘good morning, how are you doing?’ to you. Because I come from the hotel industry, where customer service is most important, I view the courtroom as the customer service of the judiciary, and I am the head of that customer service.” she said she didn’t want people to experience all the negative things she’d experience in the courtroom. Kindness is key in her approach. she realizes that many can take advantage of that, but she makes it very clear that you’ll never get away with it. “I can be very kind, but I’m also very thorough and very detailed. They soon realize that they can’t just shortcut things with me because I will notice it,” she said. Representation matters when she was elected the first Asian American president of the wBAI, it was momentous. It was an important barrier to break, but O’Brien chooses not to see the novelty of it. she knows that she worked hard for that position, and the wBAI wasn’t trying to fill a quota. Diversity is important, she says, but she makes it a point that Asian Americans everywhere, in every enterprise, should create pathways to all industries for the next wave of Asian Americans. “we as a group need to prepare the next generation,” O’Brien said. “If it’s true that Asian Americans are going to bypass all other ethnic groups [by 2040], then what are we doing as a group to hold the power, to be influential? And we’ve got to be cohesive, and we’re just not.” To women of color and immigrants aspiring to make their mark on the world, O’Brien offers this advice: “you have to really want it, and you have to have a passion for it because you are going to need that to withstand a number of challenges along the way. It shouldn’t be that way but it’s going to be that way for a while. But if you want to contribute to the betterment of our group,
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 31, 2016
Atom Araullo clarifies resignation as reporter nothing to do with political views by Rosette
Adel
Philstar.com
News reporter Alfonso Tomas “Atom” Araullo on sunday denied that his resignation from reportorial duties in ABs-CBN was because of his expression of political views. “I quietly resigned as news reporter of ABs-CBN a few weeks ago to explore other areas of media and to grow as a journalist. However, I continue to work with the network and our programs. My political views were not a factor in making this decision,” Araullo said in a statement which he also posted on his Facebook and Twitter accounts. Araullo made the clarification after some reports said he resigned to prevent damaging the integrity of ABs-CBN News Department and being labeled “biased” after he openly expressed his opinion on issues, such as the burial of former President Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. He clarified that as a journalist the media must stand up for the
truth and be open to criticisms. “As we face tougher scrutiny from the public, we in media also strive to be more transparent and open to criticism,” he said. Araullo’s resignation was confirmed by ABs-CBN News and Current Affairs head Ging Reyes. she clarified that while Araullo resigned, he would remain an on-camera talent ABs-CBN News and Current Affairs. “Atom Araullo had filed his resignation from his reportorial duties but will remain an on-camera talent of ABs-CBN News and Current Affairs as an anchor in Umagang Kay Ganda and Red Alert. He said he arrived at this decision to be able to pursue other endeavors that would also help him grow as a journalist and as a host,” Reyes’ statement read. “He is aware that the news organization has included him in its future plans and will continue to assign him stories, coverage and events, befitting his position as a journalist,” it
Despite his resignation, Alfonso “Atom” Araullo will still be seen on screen as he is still an ABSCBN News and Current Affairs on-camera talent.
added. Araullo, meanwhile, thanked the public’s support on social media and mentioned that he looks forward to playing his role in debates and issues to come. He started his career in media at a young age as part of “5 and Up” and eventually became a segment producer that led to his field reporter career at ABs-CBN.
Iya Villania, Drew Arellano welcome their first-born by AlixAndRA
CAole Philstar.com
Drew Arellano and Iya Villania
VilA
IyA Villania-Arellano has successfully given birth to her first child with husband Drew Arellano. Drew shared a photo of their first born on Instagram after her wife gave birth on August 30. The couple named the baby Antonio Primo, after Drew’s father who passed away three years ago. They decided to have their first child after being married for two years. The former “Chika Minute” host previously mentioned in interviews that she hopes to get back to work two weeks after giving birth.
entertainment Post-Olympics Filipino pride with Larnie Boquiren Isabelle Daza gives kontrabida a new face 6
The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 31, 2016
by Boy
ABundA Philstar.com
IsAbelle Daza admitted that she enjoys playing a kontrabida in the Kapamilya afternoon soap Tubig at langis in which she stars with Cristine Reyes and Zanjoe Marudo. “My character, the mistress Clara samaniego, is not a run-ofthe-mill antagonist,” said Isabelle. There’s so much more to her than a fiendish delight in making life miserable for Irene and Natoy, played by Cristine and Zanjoe, respectively. “I think what I enjoy about playing kontrabida in ‘Tubig at langis’ is that the directors and I would talk, and we decided to show the human side of my character. We wanted to show the perspective of Clara, that she’s only human, nag-mahal lang siya, kaya siya naging ganun. I wanted to challenge myself by trying to bring the audience on my side because of that. so I’ve kind of been fighting for them, too,” she said. According to Isabelle, her mother Gloria is one of her staunchest supporters. As far as that fight — not to mention the fight to make it in showbiz — is
Tubig at Langis star Isabelle Daza: It’s OK with me to be typecast as a kontrabida because work is work.
concerned, Gloria is behind her daughter all the way. “Mom is the kontrabida in my life,” Isabelle joked at the “Tubig at langis” thanksgiving presscon. “I’m kidding! she’s my No. 1 critic and supporter, so she’s a kontrabida and fan.” Having a kontrabida-slash-fan like Gloria in her life, as well as the Tubig at langis family, helped Isabelle get through the passing of her father, former Makati City councilor bong Daza last July 14. Isabelle is grateful to her co-stars, as well as the people behind the show, for the support they gave her during that difficult time. They have also been a source of relief
for her when planning her upcoming wedding to French businessman Adrien semblat became kind of overwhelming. “In fairness to my ‘Tubig at langis’ family, they’ve been supportive. They’ve been helping out. When my Dad passed away, they adjusted to my schedule so I want to say thank you to them for doing that for me. I felt their love and support. I’m happy to have been part of their family,” she said. Isabelle is proud to say that she’s on good terms with everyone in the cast, including Cristine, even if they’re playing people who are at odds with each other. “Well, nagkakasakitan kami ni AA — Cristine’s nickname — sa eksena pero after that we’re friends naman. We can’t avoid getting hurt because we don’t want to fake the scenes. We wanted the slapping scene to look real. With AA and I, we would talk before every take. she tells me to slap her as hard as I want to. We would also talk off-cam. like when I left for France, I texted her to say sorry kasi kailangan niya mag-adjust. Cristine said she understands because when she was shooting ‘No Other Woman,’ she got sick and people had also to adjust to her. AA also said, ‘Don’t think of us. Put your family first.’ I appreciated that.” Isabelle treasures the bonds she has while working on the show. but even more special to her is the validation she has received as an actress, from coworkers and strangers alike. she’s even open to the possibility of more kontrabida roles and isn’t afraid of being typecast because she found herself as an actress. “It’s my first time to get this much feedback on a role,” she marveled. “I don’t know if I could be nominated for an acting award. I hope so. but I think my success is also down to our directors because I believe you’re only as good as your directors. It’s OK with me to be typecast as a kontrabida because work is work. I’m happy to have work.”
The Global Kababayan G. TönGi
IF you haven’t heard already, Filipino weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz represented the Philippines in her third straight Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, brazil, taking home the silver medal in the women’s 53-kg division. Her podium finish is the Philippines’ first medal since 1996 when boxer Mansueto “Onyok” Velasco bagged the silver medal in the Atlanta Olympic Games. but she isn’t the only Filipina out there who brought us Olympic pride! Meet larnie boquiren, the head athletic trainer for the UsA Women’s Water Polo team. The UsA Women’s Water Polo team is currently ranked number 1 in the world after they dominated against Italy in the recent Olympic Games. The Us is the first women’s water polo team to win two gold medals, defeating Italy, 12-5, for their second straight gold. The many achievements of the Us Women’s Water Polo team include: - Gold medal at the 2014 FINA World Cup in Khanty-Mansiysk, Russia - Gold medal at the 2014 FINA World league super Final in Kunshan, China - Gold medal at the 2012 Olympic Games in london, england - Gold medal at the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico - Gold medal at the 2010
Gold medal finish at the Rio Olympic Games with the US Women’s Water Polo team and Filipina Larnie Boquiren. Photos courtesy of Larnie Boquiren
FINA World Cup in Christchurch, New Zealand - Gold medal at the 2010 FINA World league super Final in la Jolla, CA - Only women’s water polo nation to win three World Championships - Gold medal at the 2009 FINA World Championships in Rome, Italy - Gold medal at the 2009 FINA World league super Final in Kirishi, Russia - silver medal at the 2008 Olympic Games in beijing, China - silver medal at the 2008 FINA World league super Final in Tenerife, spain - Only team in women’s water polo worldwide to win medals at the 2000, 2004, 2008, and 2012
Larnie in the pool, shoes and all.
Larnie in Rio
Larnie at work
Olympic Games - In 2005, became the country with the most overall medals in women’s water polo (FINA Junior and senior events) - Gold medal at the 2007 Pan American Games in Rio De Janeiro, brazil - Gold medal at the 2007 World league super Final in Montreal, Canada - Gold medal at the 2007 World Championships in Melbourne, Australia - Gold medal at the 2006 Holiday Cup in los Alamitos, CA, sixth consecutive year - Gold medal at the 2006 World league in Cosenza, Italy - silver medal at the 2005 World Championships in Montreal, Canada - Gold medal at the 2005 Junior World Championships in Perth, Australia - bronze medal at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece - Gold medal at the 2004 World league in long beach, CA - silver medal at the 2003 Junior World Championships in Calgary, Canada - Gold medal at the 2003 Pan American Games in santa Domingo, Dominican Republic - Gold medal at the 2003 World Championships in barcelona, spain - silver medal at 2002 World Cup in Perth, Australia - Gold medal at the 2001 Junior World Championships in Perth, Australia - silver medal at the 2000 Olympic Games in sydney, Australia, the first Olympics to feature women’s water polo as an official sport Continued on Page 7
Kaila in mom Janice and dad John’s footsteps? by Edu JArquE Philstar.com
KAIlA estrada may just be the next big thing to grace glossy magazine covers, gigantic billboards and social media feeds, yet this 20-year-old chic beauty says she is completely and totally dedicated to her studies. Absolutely! A young lady with a familiar celebrity surname — being the daughter of John estrada and Janice de belen — looks regal enough for a queen and ideal for a movie star, plus forwardthinking intelligence coupled with a quick wit, Kaila has no intentions to join the showbiz industry. Not now, not in the near future. “A common misconcep-
SM Youth Go-See winner Kaila Estrada: A common misconception is that when your parents are film and TV personalities, you are expected to follow suit. But I have other plans in life.
tion is that when your parents are film and TV personalities, you are expected to follow suit. but I have other plans in life,” the 5’7” model revealed during a recent chat — between classes — at the Andrew Café, a culinary student-managed coffee shop, at the De la salle-College of saint benilde (Dls-Csb). Although being inevitably flagged as a trendsetter, she is still an example of the textbook youth, who juggles hectic lectures and seminars, amidst weekend rakets — albeit just more grandiose — all while dreaming of getting much-needed sleep. “even before I started modeling, I informed my parents and talent agency that education is my top priority — and most importantly, I want to finish on time. Understandably so, they were initially hesitant to allow me to model, but they have been reassured, and thus realized my studies are still my main goal,” the charming lady confided. On her last two terms, she emphasized she will never compromise her on-going diligent work to earn a diploma. Part of her present arsenal is how to carefully evaluate important decisions. “There were numerous opportunities that I had to turn down, simply due to commitments at school. It’s such a big deal for me to obtain good grades, and again, not to delay my graduation date.” However, hailing from a renowned household of artistas, it is next to impossible for her to somehow turn away from the
public eye. Recently, Kaila and her male co-contestant, Kyle Perry, were acclaimed as winners of the sM Youth Go-see Competition — an online web show ala “America’s Next Top Model” — to enhance the original team of four other brand ambassadors. Her personal fashion sense, from her own admission, is very basic. “I’m simple, not flamboyant at all. I don’t wear a lot of colors. Military green is probably the most color I’ve worn,” she laughed. For those who want to step up their fashion game, Kaila, currently crazy over timeless denim and in-vogue chokers, dished some pieces of advice. “Find a perfect pair of jeans that will compliment your body size. It’s very rare to find the perfect pair. so when you discover it, claim it.” On off days, she watches the fantasy series Game of Thrones and listens to indie music. Despite being a regular in the limelight, Kaila confessed she’s an introvert, and in the past, struggled with her shyness. However, upon consciously embracing her DNA, guided by her “good head on her shoulders,” and her innate charisma, she at last is comfortable in her own skin and struts down runways and poses for photo shoots. Upon earning her Ab in Arts Management degree at DlsCsb, she wishes to travel abroad and alone. “since I’ve been to Asia, I dream to go to europe.” “It’s soul-searching — you’ll find yourself even more when you travel on your own.”
Moonlighting by Mylah de
leon
TODAY, more women are writing columns than before. But as the women’s movement took hold, traditional limitations on them began to dissolve, and they’re now writing about politics, government, finance, health or international affairs; in addition to family matters and personal concerns. They’ve stretched the boundaries of the form by creating columns that combine personal and political issues — each one different in background, voice, style and subject matter, free to express their opinions in writing. What distinguishes it is the distinctive way of seeing the so-
The intimacy of women columnists cial landscape, an ability to see what everybody sees, but not quite the way that everybody sees it. Unlike the novelist, poet or playwright, columnists do not perform in the center ring, and must be content in their selfimposed role of second class citizens in the world of literati. A columnist is licensed to be cheeky by drawing so many strands of inconsistencies in human behavior, and gets away with a fair amount of authority. It is its personal intimacy, a chatter with pen in hand, in an urban conversational manner. The writer seems to speak directly into your ear — confiding everything from wisdom to gossip in the usual see saw of modesty and egotism. Universality and touching eccentricity comes as it deals lightly and
harmoniously (even struggling for honesty) with personal experiences, opinions, prejudices; all having to do with the varied aspects of life. Others say column writing is the most profound work of the intellect in the face of life, in spite of: it is notoriously flexible and adaptable. For prose to move anywhere, in all the directions, it is open to digression and the promiscuousness of the mind. It is fragmentary and random as a writer gives you her spontaneous thoughts and lets you know, in addition, how she gets to the point. Through the seashell soul of intimacy, candor and irony, taking a stand on just about everything, from tragedies to comedies (which cuts a man down to his size) even rich speculations about a man’s sexuality, morals or
Post Filipino Olympics Pride with... From Page 6
- Gold medal at the first-ever World Cup in 1979 As the sports medicine manager and head athletic trainer for USA Water Polo, Larnie Boquiren is in charge of evaluating and assessing injuries, designing and implementing treatment and rehabilitation plans, and providing injury prevention and recovery methods. She recently returned from the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, Brazil. I am excited to have her on “Kababayan Today” soon to talk about her recent Olympic trip to Rio. Before that, she was kind enough to answer some questions for the Asian Journal. G: How did you start getting into water polo? Larnie: I started my service with USA Women’s Water Polo on October 2015 after serving five seasons as an athletic trainer with USA Volleyball teams. My colleagues at the USA Volleyball had approached me about my possible interest and I applied. G: What was it about water polo that you enjoyed? Larnie: What I’ve come to
enjoy and respect about water polo is that it’s one of the hardest sports to ever be played. The level of fitness, physicality, aggressiveness, and blue-collar team approach [that] USA Women’s Water Polo plays is what drives me in my role as an athletic trainer. G: What hard work went into the training for the Rio games? Larnie: The team trained six days a week: on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Fridays at Los Alamitos Joint Training Base from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and then 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, we train from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Morning training involves a lot of swimming and leg sets, while the afternoon involves a lot more tactics. I’m present at all trainings and lifts and start my day at 6:30am and leave at 6:30pm. I provide treatments before, between and after training sessions, and am supported by our massage therapists, acupuncturists, our sports dieting, and sports performance coach. Our travel was extensive,
and required a lot of preparation in bringing our athletic training room on the road. During travel, I serve as an extension of those the other providers that support the team. G: What was the highlight of your trip to Rio? Larnie: My highlight of my trip to Rio was jumping in to the Olympic Pool after the last second of the Gold Medal Match and meeting in the team in the middle for a huddle. We put our hands in and did our 1-2-3 USA cheer. I jumped in the pool with my clothes on including my shoes. I’ve never done that before, it’s was challenging and felt like I was going to drown at times. But I was surrounded by a group of women who play water polo that have people hanging on their necks trying to drown them. I was going to be okay. At one moment, I just had to float on my back and give thanks. The success of this team involved so much hard work, sacrifice, time of many people pulling in the same direction to achieve one goal and WE DID IT. G: Can you describe how
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lack of it — drawing out parts through similes, metaphors and hyperboles. It wants to discuss, as it says what the issue is and then stops when it feels itself complete, not when nothing is left to see. What joy indeed it is to write without playing the pedantic school master, void of all learning crammed out of books. You can take a stand on just about everything from political, to cultural, to personal life in a blend of reportage, getting away with what borders on autobiographical. You’d want to strangle that columnist who does his craft with glee. Column writing represents a mode of living. It parts a way for the self to function with relative freshness in this uncertain world. It doesn’t make excessive claims nor compulsive water polo is played? Larnie: Water polo is a combination of soccer, basketball, and hockey. Soccer because there is a goalie. Basketball because there is an element of passing and shooting, aggressive defense, fast breaks/counter attacks. Hockey because it’s aggressive, and there are moments of power plays where a player is ejected and puts a team up with another player in the field. G: How does it feel to be representing the USA even with your Filipino heritage? Larnie: The feelings and emotions that stir up are one of gratitude. I’m so thankful that God has given me this opportunity go through this process and the journey to serve in my position. The experience is a gift to be shared with the potential to plant seeds and inspire. To represent the USA and my Filipino heritage is a reminder that I’m a part of something that is greater than myself. I’m reminded of my parents and their desire for the American Dream like so many other Filipino families that come to the states. The desire for opportunity, the importance of work ethic, and doing so with graciousness and service.
features
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 31, 2016
sprinkling citations to get a free ride or other men’s brain. In a field where objectivity is akin to the Holy Grail, newspaper columnists are free to express opinion. Unfettered by the need to be objective or fair, columnists can be scathing in their criticism, unabashed in their praise funny or poignant, arrogant or intensely personal. According to Virginia
Woolfe, all columns are addressed to the common reader she has defined as “that somewhat fussy figure who may or may not exist but has been solicited and inviled to partake.” And now gentle readers,I going to figure out how to give an old saw a new twist as I cobble a column.. *** E-mail Mylah at moonlightingmdl@aol.com
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 31, 2016
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$ Inday's Best Pancit Canton 16oz
6.99
6.99 WAS
SAVINGS
$10.99 36%
Golden Saba Whole Banana 4lbs
Tropics Lumpia Shanghai Fiesta (pork/chicken) 2lbs
$
12.99 WAS
SAVINGS
$17.99 28%
2$
for WAS
7
SAVINGS
$5.59 37%
Tropics Bitesize Lumpia Shanghai Asstd Flavors 3.79lbs
Mama Sita BBQ Marinade 23oz
WAS
$5.99 SAVINGS
17%
Large White Shrimp H/O
3$
for WAS
2
SAVINGS
$0.89 25%
Kapuso Pure Coconut Water 500ml
“WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO TERMINATE THE SALES PROMO WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. WE ALSO RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REPLACE ITEMS WITH PRODUCTS OF APPROXIMATE VALUE. NO RAIN CHECKS. PROMO GOOD WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER COUPON OR PROMO. PRICES MAY CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. GIVEAWAYS NOT VALID FOR CUSTOMERS WITH DISCOUNT.”
2$
for WAS
3
SAVINGS
$2.29 34%
Lucky Me Pancit Canton VP Asstd Flavors 6pack
2$
for WAS
5
SAVINGS
$3.49 28%
Calbee Potato Chips Mega (H&S/ Seaweed&Salt) 7.05oz