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November 9-11, 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
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Supreme Court: Marcos can receive hero’s burial
tims Reparation and Recognition Act as a basis. The court, however, said MarLATE President Ferdinand cos was not convicted of crimes Marcos can be buried at the Lib- involving moral turpitude and ingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes’ the cases against him were all Cemetery) in Taguig, the Phil- civil in nature. ippine Supreme Court ruled on The court also lifted its status Tuesday, November 8. quo ante order (SQAO) that temWith a vote of 9-5-1, the court porarily halted the Department dismissed the petitions that of National Defense (DND) and sought to stop the former presi- Armed Forces of the Philippines dent’s interment. (AFP) from the burial preparaThe petitioners, including the tions for the late dictator. martial law victims, argued in With permission from Presisummary that the burial is alleg- dent Rodrigo Duterte, Marcos’s edly against the law, citing R.A. burial was supposedly set in 10368 or the Human Rights Vic- September, but the court initially by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
MARCOS BURIAL PROTEST. Militants protesting the burial of former President Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani are blocked by layers of police personnel near the Supreme Court in Manila. The Supreme Court has allowed the burial of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (LNMB). Voting 9-5, the high court dismissed the petition filed by human rights groups Inquirer.net photo by Lyn Rillon and victims of martial law.
USA
DATELINE Filipina-American philanthropist denies plot to oust Duterte FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
A FILIPINA-American philanthropist and community leader based in New York has denied allegations that she is spearheading a plan to remove Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte from power. Loida Nicolas Lewis brushed the president’s accusations off as “a complete fabrication and totally false,” following his speech on Friday, November 4 in which he publicly addressed the supposed plot. “I am concerned that the president is being given misinformation designed to divide the country and advance the interests of a certain political group while casting Filipino Americans in an unfavorable light,” Nicolas Lewis said in a statement. In his remarks before the Integrated Bar of the Philippines’ regional convention in Manila, the Philippine president said that “those who are of Western persuasion” are working to unseat him from office. “Yung ayaw sa akin, madali yan… (It is
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issued an SQAO at the request of petitioners who sought to stop the burial. The SQA, which originally should have expired on September 12, was extended twice until November 8. The court also said there was no grave abuse of discretion on the part of Duterte in ordering the burial of Marcos, and that the president has the power to decide on how to use land within the public domain, including the Libingan ng mga Bayani. Those who voted to dismiss the petitions include Associate Justices Estela Perlas-Bernabe,
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Duterte cancels Pacquiao back in Senate victory against Vargas US firearms deal after Arum says rematch with Mayweather likely EDCA, Balikatan exercises to continue
by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the cancellation of firearms purchase with the United States after the latter reportedly halted the deal due to human rights concerns in the Philippines. “I would like to announce now that the 26,000 M16s that was maybe ordered, or were ordered already, I am ordering its cancellation sa police,” Duterte said on President Rodrigo Duterte Monday, November 7. Earlier, the U.S. reportedly stopped its plans for the transaction after U.S. Senator Ben Cardin, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, expressed his intention to oppose it over the supposed extrajudicial killings in the Philippines. Since Duterte took office, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has recorded more than 3,000 individuals killed, which include deaths committed both by
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by AJPRESS FILIPINO boxing champion and Senator Manny Pacquiao arrived in Manila on Tuesday, November 8, to continue his legislative duties after dominating Mexican-American boxer Jessie Vargas during their match at Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. Pacquiao reclaimed his World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title after defeating Vargas via unanimous decision last Saturday, November 5. The Filipino boxer won on all three scorecards, 114-113, 118-109 and 118-109, in his comeback fight after his several months of retirement from boxing to focus on his senate duties. In a ringside interview, Pacquiao said he is very happy regarding the outcome of their match but expresses a little regret for being unable to knock
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Manny Pacquiao wins match against Vargas
AJPress photo by Robert Macabagdal
Piñol visits LA bearing SC orders probe on search warrant against Espinosa Fil-Ams share promises to improve, experience voting innovate PH agriculture by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
Reiterates PH/US alliance ONE of President Rodrigo Duterte’s promises upon entering the Philippines’ highest office was to innovate the Department of Agriculture (DA) to eliminate corruption and to bring autonomy to the farmers. In the administration’s first 100 days, Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel “Manny” Piñol sought to do just that. “Until today, the Philippine Department of Agriculture is still trying and struggling to feed a nation of 105 million people,” Piñol, 62, said at a community forum at the Philippine Consulate General office in Los Angeles on Thursday, November 3. Pinol presented a report of his first 100 days as the Secretary of Agriculture with a focus on modernization, efficiency and department accountability. Piñol underscored Duterte’s commitment to eliminating food insecurity across the Philip-
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MAYOR’S WAKE. Residents of Albuera town in Leyte province, pay their respects to their mayor, Rolando Espinosa Sr., who was killed under doubtful circumstances by police officers inside the Baybay jail.
THE Philippine Supreme Court ordered an investigation on the issuance of an arrest warrant for Albuera, Leyte Mayor Rolando Espinosa Sr., who was killed last week while the warrant was being served. “The Supreme Court has ordered an investigation on the circumstances relevant to the reported issuance of a search warrant directly to the CIDG (Criminal Investigation and Detection Group) that has led to the death in custody of Albuera Mayor Rolando Espinosa,” SC spokesperson Ted Te announced in a press conference on Tuesday, November 8. The warrant for the illegal possession of firearms was issued by Basey, Samar Regional Trial Court Branch 30 Judge Tarcelo
for the first time in US election by CHRISTINA
YEY Coronel has been a Southern California resident since 1981, but this year marks her first time voting in an election. Despite her decades-long career in civic service, which includes serving under two Los Angeles mayors, it may come as a surprise that it was only this past September when she was swornin as a U.S. citizen. “Doing immigration for the Filipino American Service Group, Inc. (FASGI) made me start thinking that all these people wanted to be citizens as soon as they’re eligible. I’ve been eligible
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A NOVEMBER 9-11, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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From the Front Page
Supreme Court: Marcos can receive hero’s…
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Lucas Bersamin, Arturo Brion, Leonardo-De Castro, Mariano Del Castillo, Jose Mendoza, Diosdado Peralta, Jose Perez, and Presbitero Velasco Jr. On the other hand, Chief Justice Maria Lourdes P. A. Sereno and Associate Justices Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa, Antonio Carpio, Marvic Victor Leonen, Francis Jardeleza dissented. Justice Bienvenido Reyes abstained from voting. In a statement, former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” R.
Marcos Jr. thanked the Supreme Court for its decision. “We also would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to President Rodrigo Duterte as his unwavering commitment to this issue sustained us these past several months. Our family will forever be thankful for his kind gesture,” he said. The younger Marcos said he hopes that his father’s burial will “lead the nation towards healing as we endeavor to move the country forward to give every Filipino a better life.”
On the other hand, several rallies were conducted in different parts of the country, including Quezon City, Makati, Baguio, Los Baños, Cebu, and Davao, to protest against the court’s decision regarding the internment. Former President Marcos died of kidney, heart and lung ailments in 1989 while in exile in Hawaii after being ousted during the 1986 EDSA Revolution. His remains were brought back to the Philippines in 1993 and have stayed remained in a glass coffin in Ilocos Norte. n
Duterte cancels US firearms…
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legitimate police operations and vigilantes. “We will just have to look for another source that is cheaper and maybe as durable and as good as those made from the place we are ordering them. We will not insist on buying expensive arms,” Duterte added. On the other hand, U.S. State
Department spokesman Mark Toner told reporters that Washington has “not received any notification” regarding the Philippine president’s cancellation of the firearms deal. Apart from the arms purchase, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana also announced that some bilateral military drills between the Philippines and U.S.
would be stopped. Among the drills that would be discontinued include the Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) exercises, and the Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) drills. Sought for comments, Toner said the U.S. has not yet received
APPROVAL. For loyalists of the late Ferdinand Marcos, the hero’s burial for the late president will bring healing to the country. oting 9-5, the high court dismissed the petition filed by human rights groups and victims of martial law. Philstar.com photo by Efigenio Toledo IV
SC orders probe on search warrant…
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Sabarre Jr. According to the initial police report, Espinosa was fatally shot inside his cell at the Leyte SubProvincial Jail in Baybay City after allegedly resisting arrest and exchanging shots with the CIDG on Saturday, November 5. The CIDG was also carrying a separate warrant of arrest for the alleged possession of illegal drugs against another inmate, Raul Yap, who was also killed during the supposed resistance. However, the deaths of Espinosa and Yap raised questions after the regional police office confirmed that the CIDG did not coordinate with jail personnel. Some inmates also reportedly testified that Espinosa and Yap were both unarmed and did not fight back during the operation. The CCTV footage of the operation had also gone
missing. Among the CIDG personnel who were serving the warrant include Chief Insp. Leo Laraga, the team leader; Supt. Santi Noel Matira, Senior Insps. Deogracias Diaz III and Fritz Blanco; Senior Police Officers Juanito Duarte and Melvin Cayobit; SPO2s Benjamin Dacallos and Alphinor Serrano Jr.; PO3s Jhonny Ibanez and Norman Abellanosa; PO1s Bernard Orpilla, Lloyd Ortiguesa, and Jerlan Cabiyaan. The Philippine National Police Internal Affairs Service (PNP-IAS) said the supporting members of the operation will be investigated as well, including Chief Insp. Calixto Canillas, Senior Insp. Lucrecito Candilosas; SPO2 Antonio R. Docil; SPO1 Mark Christian Cadilo; PO2 Jhon Ruel Ducolan; and PO2 Jaime Bacsal. PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa earlier said the
investigation would also include looking at why a search warrant was issued to someone who was already in jail. Apart from the PNP-IAS, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) was also conducting a parallel investigation “to avoid any suspicion of whitewash,” according to Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II. Last August, Espinosa surrendered himself to the PNP after President Rodrigo Duterte issued a “shoot out” order if the former did not surrender within 24-hours. Espinosa was earlier tagged in the president’s narcotics list. The mayor resumed his post and was later detained in Baybay after he was charged in court. Before he was killed, Espinosa was supposed to provide authorities a list of drug protectors and government officials allegedly involved in narcotics. n
Fil-Ams share experience voting for the first… PAGE A1 t
for years, but I’ve been shunning it,” Coronel, the current executive director of non-profit organization FASGI in Los Angeles, told the Asian Journal. “It made me go through a self-realization that I’m actually more American than Filipino.”
Though she contemplated voting by mail, she opted to physically go to a precinct near her home in the San Fernando Valley on Election Day to undergo the entire experience of lining up, filling out the ballot, and wearing an “I Voted” sticker. California’s ballot, which in-
cluded 17 propositions in addition to the races on the federal, state, and local levels, was overwhelming, Coronel said. “My life experiences have shaped who and what I am voting for. For the candidates, I’m looking at their qualifications. I
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From the Front Page
LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 9-11, 2016
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Pacquiao back in Senate after… PAGE A1 t Vargas out. He then thanked his fans and the Filipino people for their support. Meanwhile, for Vargas, his fight with Pacquiao was like a “chess match.” “We were on our toes trying to catch a big shot. He caught me a couple of times, I caught him a couple of times. It was an entertaining fight,” Vargas said. “It was very interesting for me. It’s a good learning experience being against one of the best such as Manny Pacquiao. This automatically elevated my game and I know I have more potential,” he added. Asked about his next match, Pacquiao said he doesn’t know yet who’s going to be his next contender. “I don’t know, whoever the people wants to fight me. Whoever my promoter gives to me, I will fight,” Pacquiao said. On the other hand, promoter Bob Arum told ESPN on Monday, November 7, that there’s a 75 percent chance that Pacquiao will have a rematch against Floyd Mayweather Jr. The retired American boxer earlier surprised the crowd as he made an unexpected appearance at Thomas & Mack Center to watch Pacquiao’s match. In May 2015, Mayweather was declared the winner by a unanimous decision in his match against Pacquiao at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas and announced retirement later in September. n
READY FOR CHRISTMAS. A worker installs huge lanterns on a tree at the Quezon City Memorial Circle as the country starts preparing for the most festive season. ManilaTimes.net photo by Mike De Juan
Piñol visits LA bearing promises to improve… PAGE A1 t
AJPress photos by Robert Macabagdal
pines, noting that it was one of the president’s highest priorities upon entering office. “What is leadership if you do not even feed your own people? What did Jesus Christ do? Didn’t Jesus Christ feed his people? That is the moral obligation of a leader. If you cannot feed your own people, then you are no good. Can I get an ‘amen’?” Piñol said, the audience chanting back, “Amen!” One of the most striking problems Piñol inherited from the previous administration’s DA was relying too much on foreign markets while ignoring the domestic resources, of which the Philippines has many, Piñol said. “We still import rice in spite of the fact that we have 39,498 km of [available land],” Piñol said. “We still import our fish. We import 99 percent of our baby and milk requirements. And for a country of 105 million Filipinos, we only have 2.5 million cattle.” “So these are the problems that the president wanted me to solve, and I cannot tell you that I will be able to solve it all in the next five years,” he admitted. “But within the next 5 years I can assure you that we will set out a basic foundation of a sound agriculture and business program.” One of the first things the DA did was to take stock of the state of farming in the Philippines. The
comprehensive survey involved measuring food insecurity, understanding the terrain on which to farm and the effects of agriculture on poverty and population growth. “So the land area is constant, but the population is growing exponentially. In fact by the year 2050, the Philippine population is expected be 125 million Filipinos. The land is constant at 30 mill hectares, so we need to know, at what point do the land and sea resources will still be able to feed the Filipino people?” Piñol told the Asian Journal, emphasizing the need to explore alternative nutrition options. He added: “What is the breaking point? When does rice cease to be the staple of the Filipino people? We have to prepare now, because when the time will come when the land and the sea could no longer supply the food requirements of the growing population of Filipinos.” The department also wanted to restore farmers’ rights by lowering costs. Piñol worked with local communities to understand their issues and make sure the department is catering to their needs. Piñol also pushed to provide rice farmers with free irrigation starting 2017. The DA is also looking to uplift several industries including the banana industry. Bananas are the second highest-earning export in the Philippines, earning
about $1.2 billion per year. Last month, Duterte was in talks with Japan to supply bananas to a leading Japanese supermarket chain, which Piñol said is expected to generate more than 100,000 jobs in the Philippines. Shifting to political talk, Piñol also made it a point to reiterate that the Philippine/U.S. will remain strong because both countries are still dependent on each other for resources. The secretary said that the DA is in talks with several American companies to bring new technology to the Philippine agriculture sector. Amid international attention on Duterte, Piñol took time at the end of his presentation to speak about the qualities of Duterte that make him a fit president. Citing Duterte’s commitment to domestic affairs and eliminating corruption, Piñol said that the “few controversial things he’s said” don’t compare to the actions he’s taken as president in the first four months. He added that the controversy surrounding the possible break in the Philippine/U.S. alliance is nothing but paranoia, and that both countries will remain allies. “Politics and diplomacy are temporary. Relationships based on culture and emotions are permanent. Let there be permanence,” Piñol declared at the end of his presentation. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)
A NOVEMBER 9-11, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
Dateline USa
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Fil-Am senior citizen nabbed at NAIA with box of bullets
A 79-YEAR-old Filipino-American citizen was nabbed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on Tuesday, Nov. 8 morning for possession of bullets, Radyo Inquirer 990AM reported. The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) identified the man as a certain Rondaris Rufino, who possessed a small box containing 36 bullets. MIAA said Rufino could not explain why he has ammunition. The Filipino-American, who is bound for Laoag City from the United States, was not allowed to leave the airport pending investigation by the police’s Aviation Security Group. n
Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Inquirer.net file photo
Fil-Ams share experience voting for the first… PAGE A2 t
am looking at not just capability, but for someone who is more trustworthy,” she said. However, she revealed that she chose not to vote for a commander-in-chief. “By not voting for president, I am making more of a statement that the [Democratic and Republican] parties need to be more responsible in choosing their candidates,” she said. “I worry about people who say they’re voting for one because they don’t want the other to win, and I think that’s not right either because it could skew the votes to the other candidate.” FASGI — an organization based in LA’s Historic Filipinotown that benefits low-income individuals in areas, such as immigration, health and wellness and rider relief — got over a dozen Filipinos in the area to register to vote and educated them on how to physically fill out their ballots. One of the individuals the organization has helped is Florencio S. Mallari Sr., a 78-year-old Filipino who migrated from the Philippines eight years ago. “I came to the U.S. to save my life. If I stayed in the Philippines, I would have died by now. All of my friends are dead,” Mallari said. “Being a citizen now makes me so happy.” Since becoming a citizen in March, he has been working to improve his English skills. However, he said he wasn’t aware that Los Angeles offers election materials in Tagalog, which would have made the voting pro-
cess easier for him. He shared that he was bombarded with mailers that had contrasting messages on how to vote for the various propositions. “It’ll be a good feeling if who I voted for wins,” Mallari said, though he didn’t reveal which presidential candidate received his vote. “But that’s a secret.” Fil-Am millennials’ perspectives Eron Constante, a 20-yearold Filipino-American student in Glendale, California, thought everything went smoothly on Election Day, given that he took the time to extensively research all of the ballot issues and candidates. That is, until he realized that he forgot to cast his choice for president after he submitted his ballot. “I would have voted for Hillary Clinton because the argument of her being the lesser of two evils, I find, is more convincing than Trump is the lesser of two evils,” Constante said, adding that the economy and education are among the top issues he’s most concerned about. Katrina Villacisneros, 20, went to a nearby retirement center in Arcadia, California to also vote for Clinton. “As a woman, I feel very proud because when I woke up today, I thought about the 19th Amendment and how lucky I am that I get to vote,” Villacisneros, who moved from the Philippines when she was 10 years old, said. “There might be a chance that I could see the first female president of the United States and I
could say that I participated in creating history,” she added. Though it’s commonly believed that millennials tend to be more progressive and vote Democratic as a whole, several young firsttime Fil-Am voters shared why they voted for Republican nominee Donald Trump. For Francine Celis, a 19-yearold pre-nursing student from Fort Myers, Florida, in particular, being raised as a Catholic shaped her political beliefs. One of the issues she disagrees with Clinton on is abortion. “I voted for Trump, even though I don’t agree with him 100 percent,” Celis, who migrated to the Sunshine State from the Philippines in 2006, said. “I think that he can protect our country, our safety, and help increase jobs and opportunities for everybody.” As a naturalized citizen, she added that immigration is another area in which she believes Trump can fix. “My family and I are immigrants, but we came here the right way. I feel that if anyone wants to come to this country for freedom and opportunity, they should come here the same way others do because if you’re going to pardon everyone who comes here illegally, then that’s just sending a message to everyone else to come here illegally and we’ll forgive you,” she said, though she acknowledged that undocumented immigrants contribute to the economy and take jobs that others usually don’t want. Fellow young first-time voter
ROWING DAY. Philippine Coast Guard personnel and members of the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation join a fluvial parade at the Pasig river held to mark the 85th anniversary of the law changing the name of the municipality of San Felipe Neri to Mandaluyong. ManilaTimes.net photo by Mike De Juan
Felipe Victorino Cataquiz of San Diego was eager to participate in this election, crediting his “love for this country and civic duty” as his main driver to register and vote. “Growing up in America, I have been blessed with the freedoms and opportunities that other people in countries do not have easy access to,” Cataquiz said. “I have also been blessed to be raised in the beautiful city of San Diego and witnessed the exceptionalism of America, which has been displayed from American citizens from all walks of life. All of these factors are all due to the principles in which the country is found upon and the free enterprise oriented system that grants them the opportunity to do so.” He added: “The elections gave me the opportunity to defend these principles that I hold dear today by giving my voice to where I want America to go in based on candidates or propositions.” Cataquiz, a student at the University of California, San Diego studying biology, also voted for Trump for his positions on taxes, health care, “certain aspects of immigration” and foreign policy. “While he is not my ideal candidate, he’s better than Hillary Clinton based on policy positions that I find integral to the office,” Cataquiz said. The future of the Fil-Am vote Meanwhile, just a few streets
away from FASGI in Pilipino Workers Center (PWC) has also been doing its part to reach out to voters by organizing 40 volunteers to phone bank three times a week. In the last month, the group made over 10,000 calls to Filipinos, and released a voter guide stating its preferences on the propositions and measures. Though PWC did not use its resources to register new voters, the organization’s Executive Director Aquilina Versoza observed that many more Filipinos were motivated to vote on their own. “We did see more people excited to vote because of all the media coverage,” she said. “We also got people coming to us asking for help processing their citizenship so they could vote, but unfortunately some of them came to us too late.” In addition to the language barriers seen with older Filipinos, Versoza said several had difficulty reaching the polls. “Some seniors had challenges actually getting out to the polls physically, but they were excited to vote so we helped them request their mail-in ballots so they could still participate,” she said. Mallari said even if fellow Filipinos didn’t get to vote during this election cycle, the coming years will be crucial for them to do so. “Just vote [and] you can help our country here...so the United States can know you voted and
you did your part,” he said. A month before the election, the National Asian American Survey (NAAS) found that 54 percent of registered Filipino voters surveyed said Clinton was their “presidential vote choice.” 27 percent reported that they preferred Trump, the highest favorability rating of the Republican nominee among all surveyed ethnic groups. “I think predicting voter behavior in this election is very difficult and...this election is more unstable than any other we’ve seen before. If anyone’s predicting who will win, it’s still impossible to tell,” Constante said a few hours before polls closed on November 8. In California, 410,000 Filipino Americans registered to vote, according to Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Los Angeles’ analysis of the Secretary of State’s statewide voter file. “We see this as a start. For us, this was our first bigger effort to try to see how we can get out the Filipino vote,” Versoza said. “We want to continue to do this every year, whether it is a presidential election year or not...This connected with other issue campaigns, advocacy campaigns, I think, it’s not just about voting but being engaged civically overall so we can get issues addressed that are important to our community.” (With reports from Klarize Medenilla / AJPress)
Duterte cancels US firearms…
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any formal cancellation of the exercises. “No, nothing yet. We’ve not received anything officially. Obviously, we’ll also be seeking clarification directly from the president or the president’s office on what he meant,” the U.S. spokesperson said. Meanwhile, the annual joint Balikatan exercise and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) will continue, as approved by Duterte, ac-
cording to Lorenzana. “Yearly, it will continue. What will remain are drills on counter-terrorism, humanitarian response, special operations on counterterrorism, engineering projects, civic action,” the defense secretary said. Previously, Duterte threatened to scrap EDCA, a treaty that allows U.S. forces to be deployed in Philippine territory temporarily for maritime security and humanitarian and disaster response operations.
Meanwhile, the Balikatan focuses on “partnership, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities, Philippine capability development and military modernization.” Last month, Duterte expressed his intention to free the Philippines from the presence of foreign military troops in the next two years. He also previously said that he wanted the American troops to leave Mindanao in order to pursue peace talks with the rebels. n
Filipina-American philanthropist denies…
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easy to deal with those who are against me…), no need for coup d’etat…you are wasting your bullet,” he said. The president went on to say that he is ready to step down from his post without being coerced. “Go to Malacañang, we’ll have coffee and I myself will swear you to run this Republic and solve the problem. Walang problema (No problem). Next year, there will be mass demonstration, for all I care. Wala akong illusions (I don’t have illusions). Do not give me a reason to go out because you might get your wish,” he said. Though he did not directly name Nicolas Lewis, he mentioned that a prominent funder of the ouster is “an affluent businesswoman.” He also mentioned billionaire George Soros’s financing of Human Rights Watch, one of the many organizations that has raised alarm over the Philippine government’s controversial crusade against illegal drugs. “They have funding money. They will really attack to justify. They chose me... they’re pounding on me. That is fine, editorials every day,” the president said. “I can swallow that.” Rumors of a plot first came to light in September when Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar revealed that Fil-Ams in New York were “hatching a plan to oust the president by January 2017.” He said that the information came from a cabinet secretary who was visiting the city at the time. Despite the accusations, Nicolas Lewis wrote a letter to Sung Y. Kim — the new U.S. Ambas-
New U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim receives a letter from NY-based philanthropist Loida Nicolas Lewis after he was sworn in at the U.S. State Department on November 3. Lewis suggested drug rehabilitation assistance for the Philippine government. Photo by Eric Lachica
sador to the Philippines who was officially sworn in on Thursday, November 3 — asking the U.S. government to support Duterte’s anti-drug campaign with rehabilitation programs. “With all due respect, may I suggest that you offer him assistance in the rehabilitation of the 800,000 drug addicts and drug dealers who have surrendered and are now in prison all over the country?” she wrote. She added that she met with the Philippine president in June and remarked that “he has the genuine intention to lead the Filipino people out of poverty, criminality and corruption.” Nicolas Lewis was married to the late Reginald Lewis, the first African American to own a billion-dollar company, TLC Beatrice International Holdings. Since taking office, Duterte has made remarks against the United
States, one of the Philippines’ long-time allies. Following his first state visit to Beijing, he suggested a military and economic break from the U.S. in favor of aligning with China and Russia. On Friday, he also slammed U.S. President Barack Obama anew for the latter country’s “threats of aid withdrawal.” “Mr. Obama, what went wrong? Get your dictionary. Find out the right meaning of dignity,” Duterte said. The U.S., however, has reiterated its commitment to maintaining its relationship with the Philippines. In three and a half months, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has recorded more than 3,000 individuals killed, which include deaths from both legitimate police operations and vigilante killings. (Christina M. Oriel / AJPress)
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Dateline PhiliPPines
Duterte to ratify climate agreement by Catherine
S. Valente ManilaTimes.net
PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, Nov. 7, said he will sign the Paris Agreement, a global pact that aims to curb the effects of climate change. Duterte said he made the decision after consulting members of his Cabinet, who were mostly in favor of the pact’s ratification. “After so much debate, ‘yung climate change pipirmahan ko [I will sign the climate change agreement],” the President said. “It’s a Cabinet decision, I’ll go along with it and sign it.” However, Duterte warned that
industrialized nations may violate the agreement. “Whatever it is, the industrial countries have been known not to honor financial obligation, especially America. It has not paid its dues to the United Nations,” he added. Under the Paris agreement, 197 countries committed to significantly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to keep global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius. The Philippines, under then President Benigno Aquino 3rd, pledged a 70 percent cut in emissions by 2030. Duterte had expressed misgiv-
ings about the pact, threatening at one point that he would not honor it because it was unfair that the country’s economic progress will be impeded by cutting its carbon emissions even if it is not a major contributor to global warming. But Duterte explained that he was only expressing his opinion when he first talked about the agreement. “When I said that I was not into it, I was only expressing my opinion. I do not lose the freedom of expression just because I am the President. I am not barred from giving my own opinion just because I am the President,” he said. n
Bangsamoro transition team expanded by Catherine and
S. Valente louiSe Sofia a. uSero
VICTORY SIGN. Ilocos Governor Imee Marcos gives the victory sign after the favorable decision of the Supreme Court on the burial of her father, former President Ferdinand Marcos, at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. Voting 9-5, the high court dismissed the petition filed Inquirer.net photo by Lyn Rillon by human rights groups and victims of martial law on Tuesday, Nov. 8.
Lawyer: Revilla still alive
ManilaTimes.net
PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Monday signed an executive order (EO) expanding the panel that will draft a new law that will create and define the powers of a Bangsamoro region in Mindanao. The EO increased the members to the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) from 15 to 21 to make the process “inclusive.” The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which will head the panel, will nominate 11 members while the government will name the other 10 members. Duterte said the process will be more inclusive with the participation of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). The President’s chief peace adviser, Jesus Dureza, said slots will be given to the MNLF faction led by former Cotabato City Mayor Muslimin Sema. The faction led by MNLF founding chairman Nur Misuari however will not join the BTC. Dureza said a separate panel will be formed to discuss with Misuari and his group their proposed amendments to the territory covered by a Bangsamoro region. Duterte, who called himself a “creature of Mindanao,” emphasized the importance of a peace deal in the South which has seen decades of fighting. “My only desire is that peace
by Ma.
MORE INCLUSIVE BODY President Rodrigo Duterte holds a copy of the Executive Order on the Bangsamoro Transition Commission which he signed in the presence of (from left) MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal, presidential adviser Jesus Dureza, MILF chairman Al Hajj Murad Photo by Rene H. Dilan and government peace panel chairman Irene Santiago.
in Mindanao would finally come and if that can be done peacefully without a fight, we will be grateful to God that not a single drop of blood has been shed in this new undertaking of giving a country finally the deliverance from violence,” he said. “I am committed to the peace process. I pray to Allah that it will succeed in my term. Sabi ko nga, maski iyan na lang ang magawa ko para sa bayan, okay na ako (if that’s the only thing that I can do for the country), then I can retire in peace,” he added. MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim said the signing of the EO shows the sincerity of the Duterte administration to the peace process. “I’m here to witness the re-
birth of hope that we may finally achieve the fulfillment of the peace agreement,” Murad said. The Philippine government and the MILF signed the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and its annexes under the Aquino administration. However, the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law was stalled in Congress. Critics of the peace agreement and the proposed law claimed the process should be more inclusive. In August, the government and MILF panels agreed to increase the membership of the BTC from 15 to 21. Government panel chief Irene Santiago said the BTC will submit a draft law to Congress “mid-
u PAGE A7
reina leanne tolentino ManilaTimes.net
FORMER senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla is alive and is under observation at the St. Luke’s Medical Center in Taguig City where he was rushed on Saturday because of erratic blood pressure and severe headache, his lawyer, Reody Anthony Balisi, said Tuesday. The Sandiganbayan’s First Division allowed Revilla to stay at the hospital for further tests. On Monday, the defense filed a three-page Manifestation and Urgent Motion informing the court about the former lawmaker’s transfer to the hospital. “We just filed a manifestation to report to the court the recommendation of the PNP and their action on bringing Senator Revilla to St. Luke’s Global on an emergency case. So as a matter of procedure, since he’s still confined at the PNP, it was incumbent upon us to report to the court and ask the court to allow him to stay there until all the tests are done and until he’s discharged. So, graciously the court granted our request for humanitarian considerations,” Balisi told reporters in an interview after the hearing. Balisi dismissed reports of Re-
villa’s death. “Wala pong katotohanan. In fact, nung nag-report ako kanina lang, nakausap ko siya sa ospital. Mukhang okay naman siya, stable, and still resting so wala pong katotohanan iyan (There’s no truth to that. In fact, when I reported a while ago, I was able to talk to him. He seems okay, stable, and still resting),” Balisi said. “Buhay naman siya (He is alive). It’s just that he has these health conditions that we have to address so walang katotohanan iyang sinasabing patay na siya (there is no truth to those reports that he has passed away).” Revilla is detained at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center in Camp Crame for plunder and graft charges in connection with the Priority
Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) or pork barrel scam. The anti-graft court allowed Revilla to undergo laboratory tests until he is discharged. Based on the manifestation filed by the defense, Revilla was rushed to the PNP General Hospital in Camp Crame on Saturday morning “after he experienced vomiting, severe headache and erratic high blood pressure, and swollen right hand.” “During his stay at the PNP General Hospital, Senator Revilla again vomited twice for unexplainable cause, necessitating his transfer to a private hospital,” it said. The former lawmaker was transferred to St. Luke’s upon the recommendation of the PNP hospital’s head doctor. n
A NOVEMBER 9-11, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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OpiniOn
Features
Judgment
THE burial of Former Pres. Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes’ Cemetery) was given a go signal by the Supreme Court on Tuesday, Nov. 8. Voting 9-5, the high court has put an end to the highly contested and heavily debated issue, dismissing the petition filed by human rights groups, and victims during the Martial Law from 1972 to 1981. The petitioners argued that the atrocities committed under the despotic leader’s regime invalidated his right to a burial at the Heroes Cemetery. Marcos died in exile in Hawaii in 1989, three years after the 1986 Edsa People Power Revolution toppled his two-decade rule. Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos, daughter of the late President, welcomed the high court’s ruling and acknowledged that Pres. Rodrigo Duterte supports the favorable ruling. “Malaki ‘yung naging tulong ni President Duterte kahit ‘di namin hiningi ‘yung tulong niya. (President Dutere helped a lot even if we didn’t ask for it),” she said adding that the family has no plans for the burial and is waiting if there would still be a motion for reconsideration. “Minsan hindi ko maintindihan kung bakit kailangan pa sa Libingan. Marami namang iba diyan. Sa Ilocos, ang laki-laki. Pero sundalo po ang tatay ko e. (Sometimes I do not understand why [we need to bury him] at the Heroes’ Cemetery. There are many other out there. In Ilocos, it’s vast. But, my father is a soldier),” she explained. For Former Sen. Bongbong Marcos, the Supreme Court decision was a fulfillment of his wishes.
“As a son, it is something that I have been praying for for many, many years,” Marcos told CNN Philippines in a phone interview. “Even equally, it’s important with the belief that this was for the healing process in this country,” he added. The younger Marcos also thanked Pres. Duterte for his support. “This is a recognition of the rights of my father as a veteran of the war and a president for 20 years and we thank the justices of the Supreme Court for recognizing that right,” he said. The former senator also called for the healing and reconciliation of “whatever differences or schisms there might be in the political arena in our country. Several groups have already mounted rallies across the country to express indignation and protest the Supreme Court’s decision. Could it be that the very branch of government seeking to determine what is “Constitutional” is the very same body finding ways to circumvent it? In its decision the Supreme Court said it “must uphold what is legal and just and that is not to deny Marcos his rightful place at the LNMB.” However, it should have also recognized Republic Act No. 10368, which allows for the “reparation and recognition of victims of human rights violations during the Marcos, regime, documentation of said violations, appropriating funds therefor and for other purposes.”
Editorial
ManilaTimes.net photo
The law guarantees that the State “acknowledges its moral and legal obligation to recognize and/or provide reparation to said victims and/or their families for the deaths, injuries, sufferings, deprivations and damages they suffered under the Marcos regime” to restore their honor and dignity. The high court must handle this situation in a manner that will promote civil liberties and provide a ground for peaceful resolution of political
conflicts. Today, Filipinos celebrate one of the world’s most vibrant democracies. This ideology gives the people the power to demand for greater and social and economic equality. We must never forget that in order to get here, it took enduring and toppling 20 years of draconian dictatorship. Many lives were sacrificed to achieve the freedom and equality Filipinos enjoy today. (AJPress)
Does Marcos deserve a hero’s burial?
THE headline back home in the Philippines eclipsed the U.S. Presidential Election last November 8. The Supreme Court of the Philippines just ruled that the remains of the deposed dictator Ferdinand Marcos may be buried in the Libingan ng mga Bayani. The highest court’s 9-5 decision ended a decadelong debate: did Marcos deserve to be buried with heroes who fought and died for the Philippines? This ruling effectively junked seven consolidated petitions to block Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s move to allow the burial of the late dictator in the Libingan ng mga Bayani. According to the Supreme Court ruling, Duterte did not abuse his executive power in giving the go signal for Marcos to be buried in the Libingan, as advocated by the Marcos family. The High Court explanation concurred with Duterte’s rationale, stating that Marcos is quali-
fied to be buried in the Libingan because he was a former presi- The Fil-Am dent, commander-in-chief, a soldier, Medal of Valor awardee, Perspective legislator, and Secretary of National Defense. Not many kababayans are happy about the Supreme Court decision, even among those who gel SantoS-ReloS voted for Duterte. But Malacañang said the Duterte administration hopes the matter will finally be laid to rest so that the nation can move forward. Among the many arguments against the Supreme Court decision was that of Sen. Francis Pangilinan, who was then head of the UP student government during the Marcos regime. His message articulated the disgust and opposition of Filipinos about this issue. To quote Sen. Pan-
gilinan: “This is a horrible day for democracy. Thanks to the Supreme Court, the Philippines will be a laughing stock of the world. We kicked out a reviled dictator and now we are honoring him by burying him in our national heroes cemetery. No less than our Supreme Court wants our citizens, our children to honor a plunderer and tyrant. This is shameful and deplorable. Now the Supreme Court wants Mr. Marcos, who it previously called a “dictator…who caused twenty years of political, economic and social havoc in the country”, buried alongside our heroes. Rather than effect closure as the final arbiter of all disputes, the Supreme Court has reopened old
wounds. If the Supreme Court thinks it has the final say on the matter, then they are terribly mistaken. Burying Marcos in the Libingan has created a huge divide that will haunt the nation for days and years to come. The law creating the Libingan ng mga Bayani, Republic Act 289, reserved its sacred grounds for heroes to be emulated by “this generation and of generations still unborn”. Marcos is not a hero. His burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani desecrates our democracy and the memory of those who fought for freedom and justice in our country.” *** 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
Why is Duterte so quiet about the rubout of the century? a doubt, be known IT’S been three days as the ‘rubout of the (as of this writing) Commentary century,’ the most since more than 15 pobrazen ever here or licemen of the Eastern even elsewhere in Visayas Criminal Investhe civilized world. tigation and Detection And to think that Group (CIDG) motored Espinosa on nationfor several hours from wide television aptheir headquarters in RigobeRto tiglao pealed to his son in Tacloban City, to arrive in Baybay City in the wee hours of the August: “Surrender na lang tayo kasi morning, occupied the sub-provincial tutulungan naman tayo ng ating Presijail, disarmed its warden and guards, dente at ng ating PNP chief (Director and executed Albuera mayor Rolando General) General Ronald Dela Rosa.” Espinosa with their Armalite rifles. The (Let’s just surrender, because you see, detained mayor had been awakened by the President and the PNP chief would the surprise visit of the police search help us.) Marcos had a search warrant team and asked if he could first go to What should add to our outrage is the toilet. The scene was like shooting a goldfish in a fish bowl, or a sick dog that the head of the Eastern Visayas CIDG, Police Superintendent (Lt. Col.) in a pen. Espinosa, as everyone in the country Marvin Marcos, who approved the opwould know by now after Duterte him- eration led by Chief Inspector (Major) self named him as a drug lord, was to Leo Laraga, takes us for fools. They claimed he was holding a search become a star whistleblower for the President’s anti-drug campaign. His al- warrant, and based on the claim of an informant he wouldn’t name, there leged ‘affidavit.’ This alleged ‘affidavit’ pinpointed were guns in Espinosa’s cell. Obviously protectors of his son’s illegal-drug syn- so that it wouldn’t appear the CIDG dicate, with Senator Leila de Lima at the platoon’s aim was to exterminate Estop of the list and 225 others, including pinosa, another inmate, Raul Yap, was 19 politicians, four judges, 38 police- also killed as he allegedly had a gun and men, seven CIDG agents, a Philippine even illegal drugs in his cell. Such ruthless slaughter was underDrug Enforcement Agency operative, three from the Bureau of Jail Manage- taken with a very bad script, as Senator ment and Penology, one Army man, Panfilo Lacson and Rep. Romeo Acop, both former police generals familiar and three from the media. I haven’t heard of a case that had in- with these things, said. Bad, I think volved such a brazen execution of a star since these people think they can either witness, or anybody else for that mat- fool us, or frighten us to believe their ter. In a cell, by policemen? Even in the preposterous story. I find it strange that the PNP chief, most imaginative mafia movie, the assassins of a stool pigeon were hardened after presumably having been told of inmates — not a platoon of policemen the execution, didn’t rush home from disarming jail guards. Even Marcos and his junket in Las Vegas to watch Manny his henchmen at the apex of the dicta- Paquiao’s championship. After all, he torship couldn’t have thought of such had given Espinosa and his son Kerwin his personal protection, that they an execution. The killing of Espinosa would, without wouldn’t be killed if they became state
witnesses. What I found stranger, though — and worrying — is that the usually loquacious President Duterte has been totally mum over this crime, which is really a slap on his face, as executed by the police who have been undertaking his war on drugs, his overarching project since he assumed office (L) Would-be-whistleblower Mayor Espinosa, executed. (R) Half a day later, PNP Chief de la Rosa, unruffled on the ring celebrating Pacquiao’s in July. victory with Chavit Singson and Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach He had blown Police Chief Inspector (Major) Jovie his top and called Ambassador Philip been informed or heard of the Espinosa execution. Espenido, Albuera municipal police Goldberg an idiot and a gay when the Two speeches, not one word on Es- chief, was livid as he asked, sarcastiUS envoy said that extrajudicial killings cally, why Espinosa was killed over one threatened our rule of law. He went into pinosa He made two speeches the other day. gun. “It will have a chilling effect on the a paroxysm of anger and blurted out “putang ina” when a reporter baited In that one on the occasion of the swear- other witnesses against police and govhim with a question about what to say ing in of the new officers of the National ernment officials,” he added. Guards if President Obama raised in an upcom- Press Club (NPC), he rambled for over of the municipal jail narrated over TV ing APEC meeting with him the issue of half-hour on various topics – from his news broadcasts how they were disview that not all the media men who armed and threatened to be shot if they extrajudicial killings. But over the Espinosa killing, he has were gunned down were targeted be- resisted, how the CIDG cut the cell’s cause they were doing their job but for chains with a bolt cutter they brought been as timid and quiet as a sheep. I would have cheered him if he ap- some other reason, to why he doesn’t with them, and how one police officer peared on national TV hours after Es- support the past administration’s com- shot Espinosa, right after he asked if he pinosa’s killing and shouted putang-ina mitments to the world to reduce its car- could go to the toilet. The CIDG agents, several times, and addressed a crisp bon emissions but would still have to they claimed, very methodically ripped out the hard disc that contained the curse at his factotum PNP Chief Ronald honor it. In both speeches, Duterte has said not closed-circuit TV video of those hours, de la Rosa (Who was in Las Vegas three days before to watch Manny Pacquiao’s one word on the Espinosa rubout. It’s a and took it with them. Police Superintendent Marcos, the championship fight): “Putangina ina demonstration of the sorry state of the mo Bato, huwag mo nang panoorin si media that the new officers of the NPC CIDG officer who led the raid, arrogantPacquiao at umuwi ka na at pinatay ng didn’t approach him to ask him about ly claimed during a TV interview that he and his men had no choice but to kill mga bata mo ang star witness ko laban the mayor’s brazen murder. While he hasn’t said a word on the Espinosa because he fought back. As if kay de Lima.” It’s been surreal that not a single killing, the PNP has been in disarray, oblivious to the consequences of such word has been heard from our crime- with its top officials sending conflicting brazen slaughter of a whistleblower, busting President, as if he had not even messages on what happened. u PAGE A7
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Dateline PhiliPPines
LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 9-11, 2016
A
UN yet to reply to Manila’s request for killings probe by Jefferson
AntipordA ManilaTimes.net
THE United Nations special rapporteur on summary executions who earlier criticized the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte on alleged extrajudicial killings in the country has not officially responded to an official invitation earlier sent by Malacanang. This was disclosed on Tuesday, November 8, by Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose, who said UN Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial executions Agnes Callamard has not replied to the invitation for her to investigate the Philippines’ ongoing campaign against illegal drugs. MARCOS BURIAL PROTEST. Anti-Marcos protesters cry “Marcos is no hero.” The Supreme Court has allowed the burial of former dictator “To date, the Special RapFerdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (LNMB). Voting 9-5, the high court dismissed the petition filed by human rights groups and victims of martial law. Philstar.com photo by Efigenio Toledo IV porteur on extrajudicial killings has not officially responded to the official invitation sent to her through diplomatic channels by the UN Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights on nal Affairs, and even the National Police CommisPAGE A6 t October 24,” Jose told reporters Police Deputy Director General Francisco Uyami sion to stop their announced plans to investigate in a news briefing at the Departthe incident. Instead, it is solely the justice secreJr. said the incident would be investigated as “a tary, using the NBI, which is under his authority, ment of Foreign Affairs (DFA). matter of standard procedure.” Jose explained that by practice Duterte cannot underestimate the consequences or any other government agency that should invesafter acceptance of an invitation, of the Espinosa killing and his lack of leadership tigate the case. Duterte must use his persuasive Terms of Reference (TOR) of the powers over Congress to request them to wait for – so far – in this episode. country visit are negotiated toEven Senators Panfilo Lacson and Richard Gor- the Justice Secretary’s report before they undergether with the usual guarantees take their own investigation in aid of legislation. don — who defended him against the onslaught of 3. Duterte must require the justice secretary to of free movement, security and Senator Leila de Lima to prove him responsible for submit his report in 15 or even 30 days at most. non-reprisal. the extrajudicial killings since he assumed power But aside from the usual scope, — wouldn’t accept the PNP’s absurd explanation. This wouldn’t be at all difficult. Those involved the President has included adwouldn’t number more than 30 — the CIDG naThe Yellow Cult has smelled blood, with its leader, ditional element in the TOR, informer President Noynoy Aquino, apparently wak- tional head who approved the raid, the CIDG Recluding public presentation in gion 8 head, Marcos, CIDG officer Laraga, who led ing up from his stupor to arrogantly tell the media the team that executed Espinosa, together with his the Philippines of the findings that he is “monitoring the case.” of the special rapporteur and the Duterte’s apparent paralysis in the past three officers and men, the Baybay City jail warden and opportunity for the President to days over the Espinosa slay would be in the same staff, and the inmates who witnessed the rubout. publicly ask questions and presHow would that be difficult? scale as those of President Benigno Aquino 3rd in The highest officer who is really accountable for the Luneta hostage crisis and the Mamasapano this shame on the nation is of course, PNP Chief massacre. Director General Ronald de la Rosa. What kind of a A strong response needed While I would think that Duterte and his advis- message did his behavior send to the PNP, appearers, especially the veterans of so many political ing unruffled by the rubout back home and staying PAGE A5 t crises, would certainly know how to handle the on to enjoy watching the Pacquiao fight in Las Ve- dle of next year.” crisis, a strong response would involve the follow- gas? Just five months in his high-profile strategic Inclusive job, with the war against illegal drugs still unwon, ing steps: Meanwhile, Sulu Princess Jacel 1. Duterte must order the suspension of all of- and he takes a one-week vacation? Kiram said peace talks with the The strongest message Duterte could send – that MILF will be successful if Malayficers of the CIDG’s Eastern Visayas command and policemen involved in the raid on the Baybay jail, he is undaunted in his war against crime – is to fire sia will not interfere. and have them taken to Camp Crame to be “kept” de la Rosa. But there seems to be no other such “Siguro napapanahon na magin circumstances that they would be unable to person Duterte can trust, or follow his orders with- karoon tayo ng totoong usaping communicate with each other or with anyone else out question. pangkapayapaan, ang ibig ko The nation and I, myself, have been cheering sabihin ay hindi Malaysia ang for the whole duration of an official inquiry into the case. This would ensure that they would be unable Duterte’s fight against illegal drugs and crime. But mag interfere, ang facilitator ay to concoct a false explanation or threaten or bribe then his own police officials undertook one of the yung walang interest, lalong lalo those such as the jail personnel who witnessed the dastardliest crimes this nation has seen. What a na sa Mindanao (It’s time for us raid. The Baybay City jail’s warden and staff must pathetic country we’ve become. to have real peace talks, one that *** also be brought to Manila and kept in secret locammalaysia will not meddle with. E-mail: tiglao.manilatimes@gmail.com tions to ensure their safety. The facilitator should be a party 2. Duterte must order the CIDG, the PNP’s Inter- Facebook: Rigoberto Tiglao and Bobi Tiglao with no vested interest, especial-
Why is Duterte so quiet about…
Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose
ent additional information or clarification in the presence of the special rapporteur and the media. When asked if the additional element might be the reason why the special rapporteur has not responded to the invitation, Jose said the doesn’t think so because the UN rapporteur has not even replied to the invitation itself. “The special rapporteur has not responded to the invitation itself and much less to the specific element being requested by the President,” he added.. The DFA spokesman clarified that even if the Philippine government has not yet received a response from the UN, the invitation still stands and the country has not set a deadline for it. He said for the country visit to take place, the UN special rapporteur needs to accept the invitation and agree on the TOR including the additional request of the President. “The country visit will not take
place if there is no response from them [UN sepacial rapporteur],” Jose added. At the same time, he noted that the Philippines is not being singled out by UN for country visits because all UN member-states are requested to accept request for country visit by special rapporteurs and other mechanisms on the UN human rights council. Jose said the Philippines in the past had invited other special rapporteurs like those on internally displaced persons and on the right to food. When asked why he thinks Duterte is insisting that he be allowed to ask questions and be heard by the rapporteur, he replied that the President just wants to ensure fairness and to make sure that accuracy of information that the rapporteur would gather. “The rapporteur already made public statements about the allegations of [extrajudicial killings]in the Philippines and the President is compelled to say that what you are saying is wrong so if you come here to conduct investigation let me know what your findings are and I will try to rebut them in public,” Jose said. He added that the invitation sent by the Philippine government to the UN showed that the country is open to the visit by the special rapporteur and that it is consistent with the country’s willingness to be examined, while the specific element being requested by the President is meant to guarantee that fairness will be observed. n
Bangsamoro transition team… ly in Mindanao),” Kiram said. She added that any country can be a facilitator for the peace talks as long as it is not driven by any personal motive. However, Kiram said the country need not cut its ties with Malaysia, and that both countries should discuss the issue on Sabah. The Department of Foreign Affairs said Duterte is prepared to discuss the Philippines’ claim on Sabah if it will come up during his visit to Malaysia. “It may or it may not be raised. But if it is raised by either side,
I’m sure our President will be prepared to discuss this issue,” Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose told reporters during a news conference in Malacanang. Sabah is contested by the Philippines and Malaysia, but it was placed on the back burner to allow for greater diplomatic relations between the two countries. Duterte earlier said he would stick to the government’s original position on the Sabah issue. Duterte will be in Malaysia on November 9 and 10. He is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak. n
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by Catherine
talavera ManilaTimes.net
LISTED property developer Century Properties Group Inc. will continue to be led by its chief executive officer Jose E.B. Antonio even if the latter has been named special envoy to the United States by President Rodrigo Duterte. In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Monday, November 7, Century Properties said that “Mr. Antonio shall continue to serve as the Company’s Chairman and CEO.”
Antonio was appointed by President Duterte as the Philippines’ special envoy to the United States, effective October 28. “His mission is to enhance business ties and strengthen the economic affairs between the two countries,” Century Properties said. Under the Arroyo administration, Antonio served as the country’s special envoy to China in 2005. Antonio is one of the founders of Century Properties and is also currently the chairman of Century Asia Corporation, Prestige
Cars, Inc. and Philtranco Service Enterprises and is the founder and chairman of the PhilippineChina Business Council Inc. He also serves as vice chairman of Penta Pacific Realty Corporation and Subic Air Charter, Inc. Century Properties Group Inc. is engaged in the development, sale, and marketing of residential, office, retail and medical properties. The company has five whollyowned subsidiaries: Century City Development Corporation, Cen-
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China-led Asia Pacific trade deal nears completion by riChmond
S. merCurio
Philstar.com
Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez
MANILA, Philippines — A China-led trade deal in Asia-Pacific said to rival the US-chaired Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) is nearing completion and is targeted to be completed next year. “We are getting closer to expanding the opportunities for greater trade among these countries,” Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said. He was pertaining to negotiations for the Regional Compre-
hensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a free trade deal led by China and includes the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Australia, New Zealand, India, South Korea and Japan. According to Lopez, participating countries have already “narrowed the options” for the removal of tariff barriers during the recent RCEP meeting from Nov. 3 to 4. Once approved, RCEP will promote free flow of goods and ser-
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ABS-CBN opening first Reforms needed to sustain experience store next year economic growth – EIU by loUella
D. DesiDerio Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines – ABSCBN Corp. is opening its first experience store in the third quarter of next year. ABS-CBN chief financial officer Aldrin Cerrado said the media and entertainment company expects to open the first experience store by “early third quarter of next year.” The firm partnered with Ayala Malls for the first experience store to be located in Trinoma Mall in Quezon City. Cerrado said Ayala would be turning over the space to ABSCBN in January. ABS-CBN is putting up an experience store to better connect with audiences as it continues to grow its consumer business. Through the experience store,
act with their favorite Kapamilya stars. ABS-CBN is primarily involved in television (TV) and radio broadcasting, as well as in the production of TV and radio programs. In addition, it is engaged in other businesses such as merchandising and licensing, mobile and online multimedia services, glossy magazine publishing, video and audio post production, overseas telecommunication services, money remittance, cargo forwarding, TV shopping services, theme park development and management, property management and food and restaurant visitors could be part of their fa- services. ABS-CBN said its net income vorite ABS-CBN shows by playing roles, as well as purchase grew 50 percent to P2.85 billion in the first nine months from their favorite merchandise. The store will also serve as the P1.89 billion in the same period venue to allow visitors to inter- last year. n
PH 5-yr plan to seek input from anti-poverty forum by Mayvelin
U. Caraballo ManilaTimes.net
THE Duterte administration is consolidating into its five-year development plan the inputs of participants in the first Philippine Development Forum (PDF), which will kick off today (Tuesday) in Davao City. In a statement Monday, Nov. 7, the Department of Finance said the two-day development forum—the first under the Duterte administration—will be held at the SMX Convention Center. It seeks to reach a consensus and forge collective action from various stakeholders on how best to implement the government’s 10point socioeconomic agenda. Inputs from the participants will be incorporated into a plan of action under the 2017-2022 Philippine Development Plan, now being crafted by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez 3rd said executives from development partners like the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank plus other global financial institutions, along with civil society groups and representatives of foreign governments, are expected to join some 300 forum participants. “The Department of Finance (DOF) is holding a Philippine Development Forum in Davao City on
November 8 and 9 and I would like to invite all these groups to participate in the forum because there they can air their concerns and we can discuss the future direction of our country,” Dominguez told a press briefing last week. Dominguez chairs the forum, with Secretary Jesus Dureza of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) as co-chairperson. On a theme of “Poverty Reduction through the Vigorous Implementation of the 10-Point Socioeconomic Agenda, the forum focuses on five priority areas of concern: Macroeconomic and fiscal policies, which include the comprehensive tax reform proposed by the DOF and the spending strategy of the Department of Budget and Management; Infrastructure and competitiveness, which covers infrastructure investment, steps to revitalize the public-private partnership (PPP) program, development of science and technology, building an efficient transport network and improving the ease of doing business; Rural development, which includes land administration and management, food security and the participation of local government units in countryside development; Human capital development, which covers education, health care and social protection for the poorest for the poor, along with
promoting responsible parenthood and implementing the Reproductive Health Law; and Mindanao, which includes the OPAPP’s presentation of its sixpoint peace and development roadmap for the region. The plenary session will commence with a presentation of how NEDA envisions to translate the 10point reform agenda into a plan of action through the PDF 2017-2022. The NEDA will take into account the results of the earlier Sulong Pilipinas dialogues with the business community, civil society, LGUs and champions of climate change. Cabinet members will preside over the plenary discussion on the government’s overall development programs to reduce poverty and ensure inclusive growth. On the second day of the forum, the plenary session will reconvene for the presentation of reports and recommendations. Dureza will open the final session while Dominguez will report on the highlights of the previous days’ proceedings. Chaired by the DOF, the PDF serves as the primary mechanism for facilitating policy dialogues among stakeholders, including the national government and LGUs, business sector, development partner community, academe and civil society on the government’s development agenda. n
by Prinz
P. MagtUlis Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — The Duterte administration cannot just simply “build, build, build” infrastructure without reforms that will help both national and local governments to spend funds efficiently, the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) said. “Despite meaning well, the government will need to undertake other administrative reforms if it is to find success in ramping up its efforts,” EIU analysts Miguel Chanco and Roxana Slavcheva said in a report. While the government needs to fill a huge infrastructure gap, the EIU warned the challenge lies more in “reforming flaws in disbursing agencies” that haunted the previous government’s similar program. Local governments should also be prioritized, the report said, noting that they also tend to have “weak procurement capacity and arduous permitting procedures.” The article, titled “Decongesting the Philippines,” was released Oct. 24, a few days before the government unveiled its infrastructure program that brought together five agencies to pursue road, rail and port projects and even “green” cities. Separately, Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno said last Thursday the government is aware of
“Despite meaning well, the government will need to undertake other administrative reforms if it is to find success in ramping up its efforts,” EIU analysts Miguel Chanco and Roxana Slavcheva said in a report. File photo
the underspending problem and that reforms have been started. “The challenge is how to translate the budget authorization into goods and services that benefit our people. In short, the ultimate challenge is execution,” Diokno said. Dubbed “Build, Build, Build,” President Duterte’s infrastructure program promised to bring some P8 trillion worth of projects into the construction stage in two years and finished in four years. The National Economic and Development Authority had even cited the nine projects approved in Duterte’s first four months from an existing pipeline left by the Aquino government. But EIU’s Chanco and Slavcheva said project approval is one thing, while spending for them is another. “Successful implementation of bureaucratic reforms will be crucial in ensuring this expanded budget is spent,” they said.
They urged the government to continue reforms already put in place by its predecessor such as dedicating delivery units to address spending blockages, while implementing Republic Act 10752 or the Right-of-Way Act. Citing Indonesia’s experience, the researchers said projects usually get “stalled” as a result of land acquisition delays even after they were already awarded. Down the line, local governments should also be trained to better spend their funds, they added. “The administration will need to oversee detailed adjustments to local governments...More generally, a tendering process vulnerable to failure frequently is in need of an overhaul,” Chanco and Slavcheva said. Diokno, for his part, said implementing rules of procurement laws had been amended to avoid delays, while the budget will continue to act as a release document that once approved, would allow agencies to enter into contracts or disburse funds altogether. Project monitoring will also be strengthened. “I am urging implementing agencies to upgrade their internal execution mechanisms to ensure that they keep in step with the sharp increases in their budgets,” he said. “I would be lying if I don’t admit that my greatest fear is that we may not be able to spend the budget,” Diokno said. n
China-led Asia Pacific trade deal nears…
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vices among countries accounting for 30 percent of the global economy and half the world’s population. It has consistently been tagged as China’s answer to the US’s TPP, which includes 12 nations across the Pacific, some of which are also RCEP negotiators, and accounting for 40 percent of global gross domestic product. While in RCEP, the Philippines has yet to qualify for TPP negotiations largely because of existing foreign ownership restrictions in the Constitution. “All participating countries have finally specified positions…in terms of the extent of products and services inclusion and numbers of years staging for the elimination of tariff rates among ASEAN and six countries
participating in the RCEP,” Lopez said. “A narrower band of options closer to reaching agreement hopefully in meeting next year here in the Philippines. If I remember right, before April and August,” he added. The meeting, he said, will hopefully lead to reaching an agreement in time for the Philippines’ hosting of the 50th anniversary of the ASEAN. The Philippines, through the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), has made recalibrations in its tariff liberalization commitments to the RCEP to ensure national interests, particularly the interests of sensitive sectors are protected. RCEP negotiaitions started in November 2012 in Phnom Penh. The DTI earlier said the big-
gest challenge for the negotiators in the proposed agreement is how to strike a balance that would address the interests of domestic producers that need inputs for their export products and the requirements of consumers for products that are not adequately met by domestic production. n
Special envoy…
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tury Limitless Corporation, Century Communities Corporation, Century Properties Management and Century Properties Hotel and Leisure Inc. In the first half of 2016, the company reported a 50 percent drop in net income to P502 million from the P1 billion posted in the previous year. n
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Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes THERE is a natural tendency among divorcing parties to hide their assets from their spouse and understate income. This is a common problem that I have observed from practicing law for many years. A common question I hear from clients is “my spouse doesn’t know I have an account in this bank, do I have to let him/ her know of this account?” Parties to a divorce proceeding have a duty to disclose financial information to each other. This duty arose based on California’s policy (1) to marshal, preserve, and protect community and quasi-community assets and liabilities that exist at the date of separation so as to avoid dissipation of the community estate before distribution, (2) to ensure fair and sufficient child and spousal support awards, and (3) to achieve a division of community and quasi-community assets and liabilities on the dissolution or nullity of marriage or legal separation of the parties as provided under California law. To promote the above public policy, the family code requires a full and accurate disclosure of all assets and liabilities in which the parties have or may have an interest be made in a divorce or a legal separation, regardless of the alleged characterization of the property as either community or separate. Parties are also required to disclose all income and expenses of the parties. The parties also have a continuing duty to update and augment that disclosure to the extent that there has been a material change to their financial position. The purpose of the duty to augment and update the disclosures is so that at the time the parties enter into a settlement agreement, stipulated divorce judgment, or trial, each party will do so with full and complete knowledge of all relevant underlying facts of
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond monette AdevA mAglAyA (NOTE: I feel compelled to hold off comment extensively on yesterday’s event — ELECTION DAY in America. It is still much too early for me to process and see if history turned a corner.) Just a few thoughts though… Has the country decided to head in a different yet bold direction of self-determination based on TRUTH, just like it did 240 years ago in 1776? OR has it decided to still pretty much remain mired in the muck of the horrendous world order of elitist, soulless corporatism and globalism of the last quarter century? One thing is clear. The politics of our time is not for the fainthearted. We have entered uncharted territory where the story of a pitched battle and a long, drawn-out arduous struggle between the forces of good and evil rages just as they have from the very beginning when the Archangel Michael drove the forces of Satan and his minions to the deep bowels of hell. Only this time, the scene takes place on earth and in the ballot box. Do take note as we watch this story in real time. There seems to be unforeseen forces in the mix. Where did this ragtag band united by a common desire for TRUTH and TRANSPARENCY to prevail come from? No human author could have thought of such forces as Wikileaks and citizen journalism like Project Veritas and a multitude of others to coalesce, EACH ACTING ON ITS OWN, yet acting as one army of truth tellers. Truth, like sunlight is a disinfectant in this season of darkness, death and moral depravity. Truth is also a light saber that can cut through lies, damned lies and statistics. Students of literature know about the concept of deux ex machina, a factor in story-telling, where an unexpected power or event, moves quietly in the background or dramatically comes into play just when the situation becomes dire and hopeless. As multitudes bend their knees and humbly pray for deliverance, help comes in God’s perfect timing. Actually, for many believers who do not require explanation of why things are, it is divine intervention, help from above, pure and simple, an implicit faith and belief that a loving God IS patently involved in the affairs of men throughout much of history. While taking time to process the events of the last 24 hours, here’s my take on the correlation between luck, gumption, hard work and the good life. ) Do you believe in luck? And if you do, have you got the moxie to be lucky?
Community Journal
Consequences of failing to disclose material assets, income, facts and information in a divorce case the case. The disclosures are made by the parties by serving each other with a preliminary declaration of disclosure and a final declaration of disclosure. The preliminary declaration of disclosure should be served within 60 days of serving the divorce, separation, or nullity petition. The commission of perjury on the preliminary declaration of disclosure may be grounds for setting aside the judgment in addition to other remedies available under the law. The preliminary declaration of disclosure is not filed with the court but only exchanged by each party. The preliminary declaration of disclosure shall set forth 1) the identity of all assets and liabilities which the declarant may have an interest regardless of the characterization of community, quasi-community, or separate property; 2)The declarant’s percentage in the asset or liability; 3) the declarant’s characterization of the asset or liability. In addition, the declarant shall also provide the other party with a completed income and expense declaration. The declarations may be amended without permission from the court. The parties shall serve each other with a final declaration of disclosure at the time the parties enter into a settlement agreement, stipulated divorce judgment, or if the case goes to trial, at least 45 days prior to the first assigned trial date. The final declaration of disclosure shall include (1) All material facts and information regarding the characterization of all assets and liabilities(2) All material facts and information regarding the valuation of all assets that are contended to be community property or in which it is contended the community has an interest. (3) All material facts and information regarding the amounts of all obligations that are contended to be community obligations or for
which it is contended the community has liability.(4) All material facts and information regarding the earnings, accumulations, and expenses of each party that have been set forth in the income and expense declaration. The parties may agree to mutually waive the final declaration of disclosure requirement but not the preliminary declaration of disclosure. A party who fails to comply with the disclosure requirements under the family code may be held in breach of the party’s fiduciary obligation to the other spouse under family code section 721, 1100, and Marriage of Feldman. The party that failed to disclose material assets, income, facts, and information may be sanctioned by the court by awarding attorney’s fees and sanctions to the other spouse under family code section 271. When hiring an attorney to represent you in a high asset divorce case with complex property issues, it is important to hire an attorney that understands the disclosure obligation under the family code. *** 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)
Luck, moxie and the good life “The harder I work, the luckier I get.”
— Unknown
On its face value, being in the right place at the right time seems to be completely random and impersonal, much like a lightning strike. We have all heard of the incredible luck of people who have won the lottery multiple times and each time, they at least, bought a ticket, took a chance and made themselves available for Lady Luck to smile at them. Some people modestly attribute their success to luck; others, to hard work but more than likely, it is a combination of both. They were lucky because they had gumption, persisted against all odds and worked their tails off. The truth is, in some ways, we can influence good fortune with the attitude, motivation and oftentimes, with sheer moxie, with which we face our individual daily lives. If you expect bad things to happen to you or if you yourself confirm that you are unlucky, more than likely, it will become a self-fulfilling prophecy. You might as well admit it. You’re a sad sack Eeyore with a permanent, black rain cloud hanging over your head. The negative energy you emit repels people who would otherwise be of help to you. You just might be the person who can brighten up a room simply by leaving it. Perhaps, it’s your personality and there’s nothing you can do about it. You were wired to be negative and pessimistic and no motivational speaker can get you out of that rut. You’re one tough customer for the Holy Spirit to work wonders with. Fine. But for as long as you think that you have nothing to do with the ill fortune that seems to bedevil your life, you can just live with the dire consequences of fear, anxiety and unhappiness which result from being toxic and always believing the worst of things or of people. Particularly during these uncertain times, no one can afford the luxury of a negative thought. But much more so for vulnerable immigrants who are on survival mode, an optimistic can-do attitude is a must. With this current economic morass, a big chunk of the immigrant population along with many more in the middle class, have regressed back to survival mode, quite by default. Many who have moved to more comfortable levels but were caught by the real estate slump and lost their homes, may find themselves sliding back to square one and engaging in the daunting prospect of finding a job. Choosing what one does to make a living and still live a good life in the process, requires one to strike a delicate balance. Will he choose a career in govern-
ment service or work in the private sector? Should he go into business or set up a professional practice? Should he pursue the arts? Should making money and achieving higher status, weigh more than fulfilment? What are the trade-offs? An accurate assessment of one’s talents, gifts, skills, training and calling will help him make the right choice. If you have the moxie to make the right choice, it is amazing to note how luck always dovetails. Money will always be a major consideration. However in choosing a profession, the soul must be nurtured just as well, if not more. Never confuse soul with ego. The question is: are you doing what you were born and meant to do? If you are, then work is no longer work and every moment of every day holds the potential for joy. You begin to discover the sacred in the ordinary. You begin to notice the blue of the skies and the seamless flow of life, even in the mundane. You see what’s special about people. You no longer take anything for granted. The connections snap into place. Just imagine waking up thankful to your Maker for the amazing privilege of doing what it is you do every single day of your life. What you label as sheer, impersonal, random luck is actually a personal blessing just for you from above given to you freely and generously, without strings. All that is required is a bone marrow deep, boundless gratefulness that spills out as pure joy in practically everything you do. You are not just lucky, you are among the blessed ones. Few things in life can be more satisfying. If you notice yourself singing or humming while you do the work that earns you money that allows you to live the life you love, consider yourself one of the blessed ones who are living the life they were meant to live. On the other hand, if you have to drag yourself every single morning and pop a Tylenol to numb some kind of pain that won’t go away everyday at work and long for the end of the day on the first hour, plan to heave yourself out of that sinkhole, just as soon as you can safely do so. Plan the great escape and find the work that blesses you within as it blesses you with the physical needs of your life. A caveat: Jobs to your liking may be harder to find these days. Bide your time. Be patient. As in all fortuitous events, timing is everything. *** 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 • NOVEMBER 9-11, 2016
Minding Your Finances Atty. rAymond BUlAon EVERY day, I meet with a lot of people who are sick and tired of being in debt. And yet when I talk to them, I discover that they are unwilling to make the changes needed to get them out of their financial mess. What changes are necessary for your life to get better if this is what you need so badly? The first change that must happen is inside your head. You can only change your life if you change your thinking. Becoming financially free will remain nothing but a dream for you until you make up your mind that you will no longer live the way you’ve been living. You need a new mindset about how to handle your finances. Insanity has been defined as “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result”. For example, if you are caught in a vicious cycle of borrowing and you know that this is burying you in a deeper financial hole every single month, then why do you continue to borrow month
What’s New Arlene Al-os, CPA, mBA KEEP a low audit profile. It reduces risk of an audit. Here are some tips to keep the IRS from auditing your tax returns: • Make sure that social security numbers and names that you use on your income tax match exactly what appear on your social security cards. An incorrect number or name causes your electronic filing to be rejected. • Do not just fill in your changed name carelessly. Mismatch information between IRS and Social Security Administration records could generate IRS notice. If you just recently married include your maiden name in the first year of filing a joint return to avoid receiving an IRS notice. • Check your occupation. A professional who takes a study leave and fills in student as an occupation could raise doubt why employee business expenses is in a student’s return. • Report ALL 1099 income. This is a major cause of IRS notices. Paying $1,000 in additional taxes and interest for failure to report a $100 income does not make sense. Sure it happens. • Report mortgage interests covered by Form 1098s on line 10 of schedule A itemized deductions. Report all others ownercarried mortgages on line 11. This is important because IRS matches mortgage interests re-
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Debt problems: 2 things you need to change if you want your life to get better after month? Racking up debts with no plan on how to pay it all back is insanity. Stop the insanity! You can’t get out of debt by accumulating more debt. I know this sounds simple but you’ll be surprised how many people find themselves in this situation, and they simply can’t get out. The second change that is necessary for your financial situation to turn around is in your financial behavior. We may not always admit it but we all have bad behaviors that cause all kinds of problems in our lives. But here, I am specifically talking about the bad financial behaviors you may have when it comes to handling your money. What are examples of these behaviors? Buying things on impulse. Failing to differentiate “needs” from “wants”. Failing to track where your income goes every month. Not living within your means. I could go on and on. In order to be free from debt, you need to take 100% responsibility for changing the financial course of your life. Only you can
decide your future. If you keep doing what you’ve always done, you will remain stuck where you are and you will just hate yourself later and regret the consequences of your action- or inaction. If you are experiencing debt problems, you can’t put your head under the pillow and pretend that things will somehow just work themselves out. They won’t. That is the reality you need to face and until you do, don’t expect your life to get any better. If you’re confused about your options in getting out of debt, I would like to help you. For a free CONFIDENTIAL consultation, please call Toll-Free 1-866-4777772. 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)
Tips to keep the IRS away ported by banks with Form 1098 against line 10 of your tax returns. A mismatch generates an IRS letter. • The same is true with K-1s from LLCs, S-corporations, and partnerships. Double-check your entries from K-1s to your tax returns. IRS matches K-1s reported by partnerships with schedule E of your tax returns. • File your returns on time. Extensions are fine. It extends the Statute of Limitations during which they can audit you. But prolongs your agony. • Gather your documents and file your return early to avoid common mistakes that could have been avoided. • Use IRS-approved software and forms. The use of unauthorized forms from tax software that have not received IRS approval causes IRS personnel to pull out your return to manually transfer data to approved forms. • Do not automatically amend your previous returns at the sight of an error or claim for a refund. Evaluate claiming a refund versus getting an IRS notice. A 1040X may cause your original return to be pulled out from storage for a closer look. And an audit. • Depreciation schedule Form 4562 asks if you have evidence to support business mileage on your car and if your evidence is in writing. A NO answer invites an audit. • Make-believe Schedule Cs income from business or profession, the days of reporting $500 of income and deducting $5,000 of expenses are over. Don’t do it. • Rental Properties:
Calendar of Events across
Starting in 2016, Notice 201582 increased to $2,500 de minimis safe harbor limit from $500 under repair regulations for tax payers without applicable financial statements AFS. A policy must be in place beginning January 1, 2017 for use of safe harbor with per-item deduction limit costing $2,500 or less. A. Avoid large deductions. IRS agents are always looking for amounts that should be capitalized. You need to break down a $3,000 repairs into $948 electrical, $1,216 plumbing, $836 roofing. B. Avoid those round solid numbers. Use $956 for carpets, not $1,000. C. Never claim large travel expenses for rental purposes. If you insist, attach receipts and a good explanation. D. If your address is identical to your rental address, allocate nondeductible portion for owner-occupied space. If you don’t, you could receive a letter that starts with “Your income tax return has been chosen for audit..... In accordance with IRS Circular 230, this communication is not to be considered a “covered opinion” or other written tax advice and should not be relied upon for IRS audit, tax dispute, or any other purpose. *** Sy Al-os Accountancy Corporation provides accounting and tax services to individuals, corporations, LLCs and business entities. The Firm has a niche in defending taxpayers audited by the IRS and other governmental agencies. (Advertising Supplement)
America
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University of Baguio High School 40th anniversary in Chino Hills, CA Come join us in celebrating University of Baguio High School’s 40th Anniversary on Saturday, November 12 in Chino Hills, California. For more information please contact, Romy Vidal at (951) 733-7140.
Hyatt Baguio/Manila/Palawan Reunion in Las Vegas Former and current employees and guests of Hyatt Terraces Baguio, Hyatt Manila and Hyatt Palawan are having a dinner/dance reunion on November 12 in at the Hampton Inn Tropicana in Las Vegas. The address is 4975 Dean Martin Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89118. For more details, please send an email to: Beng Paraguas-Flores (Hyatt Terraces Baguio) at bengparaguasflores@gmail.com or Marian Nobleza (Hyatt Terraces Baguio) at minobleza@ yahoo.com.
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Film showing of “Curiosity, Adventure & Love” in New York The Philippine Consulate General New York invites the public to a film showing of “Curiosity, Adventure & Love,” a film by Sunshine Lichuaco de Leon and Suzanne Richiardone. The showing will be on Monday, November 14 at 6:40 p.m. at the Kalayaan Hall, Philippine Center at 556 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10036. To reserve a seat, please send an email to events@newyorkpcg.org (Subject: Fil-Am History Month) or call 212-764-1330 ext. 3866.
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Build a shelter project appreciation and book launch in New York Build a shelter project appreciation and book launch in New York The Philippine Consulate General New York in cooperation with the Assumption Alumni Association invites you to Build a Shelter Project (BASP) Appreciation and a book launch on “Yolanda: An Oral History in Verse” by Tim Tomlinson. The event will be on Tuesday, November 15 at 6:30 p.m. at the Kalayaan Hall, Philippine Center at 556 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10036. To reserve a seat, please email events@newyorkpcg.org (Subject: BASP Appreciation) or call 212-764-1330 ext. 3866.
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 NOVEMBER 9-11, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
Debt Relief Atty. LAwrence yAng CLIENT is 50 and divorced ten years ago. Ex husband decided that working was not good for him so he just disappeared. They had one daughter that client has taken cared of since the divorce. Daughter is about to graduate from college and will be working soon. Daughter has a daughter who is two years old. Daughter is also a single mom. Mother and daughter are helping each other out. Client takes care of daughter and granddaughter with her monthly income, which nets her $5K a month. Their rent is $1,200 a month. Daughter has college expenses of about $1K a month up to June of 2017. There are also babysitting expenses of $500 a month for granddaughter. Daughter also has about $20K of her own credit cards, which she pays for herself from her part time job. In other words, client pays for all expenses of her household, which consists of her daughter and granddaughter.
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Single mom seeks Chapter 7 relief from $60K credit cards Business owner seeks to discharge $40K credit cards; Young debtor seeks to discharge $50K credit cards At the end of the month, client has to produce $1,800 to make minimum payments on $60K of credit cards. It’s pretty difficult to budget a payment of $1,800 for credit cards, when daughter’s college expenses is $1K a month plus $500 of baby sitting expense. The decision to wipe out $60K of credit cards is easily made, thus saving the household $1,800 a month immediately. Daughter expects to work as a certified nursing assistant and maybe gross $3K a month. She will take over payments for the baby sitter and will pay half of the rent as soon as she starts working. Mom’s credit score will become perfect again at 750 in about 5 years, increasing yearly from the date of Chapter 7 filing. She will get new credit cards within 6 months of discharge. I suggest she takes those cards but pay them in full at the end of the month just so she can build up her credit score faster without carrying new debt. Client has an old 2000 Corolla. I suggest she trades that in before we file the
case for a newer car, perhaps a 2016 model so she doesn’t have to worry about car repairs for the next few years. One credit card company has filed a lawsuit to collect $8K. Let’s face it, how long can you fork over $1,800 a month to keep credit cards current when you have a daughter and granddaughter to take care of? $1,800 is more than client’s rent of $1,200. So I am happy that client qualifies for a Chapter 7 wipe out of her $60K of credit cards. Her family really needs relief from those debts! Second client is 55. She owns an e commerce business that sells through Amazon. I was surprised that the rent she pays to Amazon to stock and ship her merchandise is “expensive” to say the least. Client used her credit cards to stock up on merchandise that is resold through Amazon. She sells nearly half a million dollars a year but turning a profit appears to be a problem because the small margin that she makes goes to pay Amazon for rent on the Amazon website.
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With the rent that she pays to be included in the Amazon website, client has not made any profit for the last two years. She has been losing $1,600 a month. She covers the loss with credit cards. So she now owes $40K, which paid for the loss in 2015 and 2016. She got married two years ago. Her spouse owned their residence before they got married. So, even if the residence has a large equity, it mostly belongs exclusively to the non-filing spouse. There is no problem exempting the house even if the equity is large. Client decides to file Chapter 7 to get rid of the $40K credit cards. Maybe her business could start turning a profit if her supplier lowers their pricing. This is what she will work on at the same time that she seeks Chapter 7 relief. She gets to keep the business even if she files for Chapter 7 relief. Third client is only 38 years old and married. They have a 4-year-old son. He plans to file Chapter 7 to discharge $50K of credit cards which he is having a hard time paying. He makes
$2,000 a month gross as a certified nursing assistant. He wants to get rid of all his credit card debt. Wife, who need not file Chapter 7, has a bunch of student loans with a current balance of $75K and $10K of her own cards. Husband and wife have a de facto split on household expenses and debts. He pays for his own debts. She pays her own debts. He pays a portion of the utilities. She pays the entire rent of $1800. He pays for one car. She pays for two cars. Wife grosses $10K a month as a medical professional. So, their household income is $12K a month, or $144K a year. Can client get a chapter 7 discharge of his $50K of credit card debt even if their household income is $144K a year? Based on analysis of relevant bankruptcy law, client should be able to get a Chapter 7 discharge even if the household income is $144K a year. Under the worse situation, if there is opposition from the U.S. Trustee, there is a small chance that client may have to convert to Chapter 13 where
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
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he will have to pay a portion of the $50K over 60 months. Let’s just say that, if non-filing wife’s expenses are adequately documented, client should be able to qualify for a Chapter 7 discharge. This is what I call a borderline case. You can file it as a Chapter 7 since the means test will not show a presumption of abuse, and if there is no viable opposition, it should go through as Chapter 7. If your debt burden is too much to handle, come see me regarding Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 reorganization. It’s better to do it earlier than later. “The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His steadfast love.” — Psalm 147: 11
*** 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.
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Philippines-Russia Business Council Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Office of the Chairman
Advance Technologies. Just like counterparts in the west, Russia is one of the world’s leaders in the manufacture and production of advance technologies, satellite communications, science, and in the area of medical advancements. Its modern weaponry and armaments can assist the Philippines in its modernization and in its fight against the increasing threats of terrorism.
ref.rdv.presrduterte.secpyasayjr.russia-relations.1008.10-2016 October 18, 2016
Russia at this time has existing cooperation among the countries of the former USSR who are individually involved in various lines of specialization involving numerous industries.
H.E. President Rodrigo R. Duterte Malacañang Palace, Manila
Cultural & Educational exchanges with Tourism orientation. Philippines’ institutions can consider entering into collaboration with the Russian education system by way of inviting Russian schools to send Tourism students and the service industry for on-the-job-training (OJT) among resorts & allied establishments in the Philippines.
Hon. Secretary Perfecto Yasay, Jr. Department of Foreign Affairs, Manila Dear Sirs: The urgent need to Fortify Relations with the Russian Federation As we view the Philippines embarking in pioneering endeavors that remarkably includes an independent foreign policy under our reformist President, the desire to create opportunities that will benefit the Philippines and its people are now inevitable. There is therefore an urgent need to advance our almost dormant relations with the Russian Federation. Window of opportunity. To create the window of opportunities for the Philippines, there is an eminent need to improve bilateral Diplomatic, Trade, and Tourism relations with the Russian Federation. The Philippines stand to benefit in this initiative. Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States. Ideally, there should be a simultaneous initiative to pursue friendly but serious and expanded diplomatic relations with the Commonwealth of Independent States. The CIS countries are located mostly in Central Asia. Current Situation: 1. At this time, the Philippines do not have an existing strategic cooperation involving ‘Flagship’ project ventures with the Russian Federation. 2. There are no significant achievements involving economic, trade, & tourism between Philippines and the Russian Federation. The same applies to our present relations with the Commonwealth of Independent States, namely: Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Moldova, Tajikistan, Armenia, Ukraine, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia. 3. There are no significant ‘State Visits’ led by the President of the Philippines accompanied by an enlarged business delegation for the last five (5) administrations that may have led to providing benefits to specific sectors in the Philippines in the area of Trade, Investments, Tourism, Technology Transfer, and Manpower deployment. 4. It is often times believed that the Russian Federation regard the Philippines as a nominal market compared to other markets in the region and in the world. There is now the compelling need to change this situation. 5. The Embassy of the Philippines in Moscow must now play a pivotal role to significantly effect programs that may ultimately benefit specific sectors in the Philippines both Government and private, involving Trade, Tourism, and Technology Transfer. Coordination with Russian establishments including its Chamber of Commerce, Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy, must be relentless now, as it never achieved a level of distinction in the past decades. Key Points: Advantages to enhance Diplomatic, Trade and Tourism relations with Russia. Russia is the largest country in the world, and considered the richest in Natural Resources. It has always been a dominant and world leader in terms of formidable assets in Oil, Natural Gas, Minerals, strategic Minerals, Forests, Agriculture, Fisheries, and advanced technologies. Potential market / Population. Considering that a substantial part of Russia is in Asia, this remains virtually untapped. Vladivostok in the Russian Far East is the largest Russian Port City nearest to the Philippines. However, while Vladivostok is a key city, much of the commercial movement and business of about 50% is concentrated in Moscow, where the seat of power is located. Population of Russia stands at about 144 Million. The prospects of cooperation involving Trade, Tourism, Agribusiness is large and is virtually untapped. Including the Commonwealth of Independent States, the population is estimated at 88 million. Combined population is approximately 232 million. President Vladimir Putin. Big enterprises in key industries including the top 100 companies in Russia will consider select investments into the Philippines with proper cooperators if endorsed by the Russian President.
This will further encourage non-English speaking tourists to visit the Philippines. Russian students can act as interpreters. Altogether, this will encourage and create incremental opportunities for small & medium scale businesses on a region-wide basis in the Philippines Other Strategic Concerns. Pursue cooperation that will develop into creating direct flights from Moscow, Vladivostok, St. Petersburg, to Manila, and to major destinations in the Philippines. Encourage trade missions, investments, and reciprocal Visa issuance. Top Russian Companies that have indicated earlier interest to cooperate with Philippine establishments: Sistema JSFC, Alliance JSC Group, Russian Platinum Group, Lukoil, Gazprom, and Rusneft. Transaero the 2nd largest Airlines expressed interest but as of late has declared bankruptcy. Top Philippine Companies that have indicated interest to cooperate with major Russian Companies (directly and/or indirectly): San Miguel Corporation, Petron Corporation, Zest-O Corporation, Megaworld Corporation. Proposed Courses of Action: 1. President Duterte should proceed with the State Visit to Moscow, and lead an enlarge business delegation to include leaders of Industry to explore Russia. This will be coordinated with the DFA, DOF, DTI, DOT, and the PCCI representing the private sector. 2. Under the leadership of Secretary Perfecto Yasay, Jr., the DFA may consider initiating moves to plan a major coordination effort starting with organizing and convening a Special Committee to prepare for initiatives on foreign relations, trade, tourism, technology transfer, with the participation of the private sector. 3. The Philippine Government thru the DFA with the assistance of the PCCI should identify individuals who may have excellent knowledge in dealing with Russian establishments, doing business and/or have built-in contacts in the Moscow Region. Such persons should act as coordinators and be appointed as members of the Special Committee for the State Visit and for the Business Delegation. 4. DFA may consider designating a 2nd strong person next to the Ambassador with a qualified alternate and who are development and growth-oriented with the skill of enhancing diplomatic relations with key officials of the Russian Government. This will ensure providing support to both to both the Philippine Government and the Private Sector. 5. Organize a complimentary committee composed of Agencies particularly the DOF, DOT, DA, DOTC, DOE, DECS, DOST, to be led by the DFA. The main task will be to identify various modes of securing information that will lead to cooperation and will benefit the agencies of government, and ultimately the various sectors in the Philippines. 6. The Committee will be tasked with organizing a fully devoted task force to explore: - Exports of our leading agricultural products such as Mangoes, Bananas, Pineapple, Papaya, Coconut, Fish products, and other agricultural produce. - Secure long term supply of Urea as necessary to regain leadership in Rice production. - Establish Terminals and Long term supply arrangements for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). - Secure long term supply of crude oil and Urea under preferred terms. - Cooperation in the oil and gas industry for production and processing thru joint ventures. Earlier initiatives. Having travelled to Moscow at least 10 times, the undersigned have developed modest and excellent contacts and friends. Notable initiatives were developed to enhance relations during previous Business Missions as Chairman of the Philippines-Russia Business Council. Some years ago during the Manila visit of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, the undersigned had the opportunity to interact with the Minister and indicated his support to promote Russian-Philippines relations. The meeting happened at a dinner at the Malacañang Palace attended by 12 people. Then President Arroyo was out of the country at that time.
This does not include potential investments into Russia by large Philippine companies. This will further stimulate the built-up of technologies, trade, and employment opportunities.
In another significant Manila visit by then Federal Assembly Chairman Mironov some years ago, the undersigned had the opportunity to act as moderator for their meetings and had the chance to seek advise in promoting relations between Russia and Philippines.
Political aspect and Cooperation between Legislative bodies. On the political front, the Philippines’ dominant political coalition should consolidate efforts and strive to seriously consider options towards cooperating with “United Russia”.
The aforementioned proposed points or options are presented for your consideration to address the first stage of our intentions towards improving our bilateral relations with the Russian Federation. The preparations can serve as spring board for other locations in Central Asia.
United Russia is the major dominant Political Party. As such, initiatives should be developed with the International Policy and Interparty Relations of the Presidium of the General Council of the United Russia Party. Alternately, establishing direct communications with the Supreme Council, the State Duma, and the Federal Council will compliment the general intentions and directions of President Duterte.
I am prepared to report to elaborate on the merits of the modest proposals at any moments notice.
The direct cooperation with the Russia’s State Duma, the Federal Council of the Federal Assembly, and the Congress of the Philippines will further ensure influence and untold benefits. The State Duma and the Federal Council of the Federal Assembly are Russia’s counterpart of the Congress of the Philippines.
Respectfully yours,
Roberto De Venecia Chairman Copy to: The Leadership of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry [PCCI]
Philippines’ Business Delegation to Moscow during the formal introduction and meeting with leaders of the Chamber of Commerce of the Russian Federation (CCIRF) and Russian businessmen.
PRBC Business Delegation to Moscow during the formal introduction and meeting with leaders of the Chamber of Commerce of the Russian Federation (CCIRF) and Russian businessmen.
Photo were PRBC members Noel Cariño, Roman Reyes, Ricardo Penson, Welma Lanzuela, PRBC Chairman Roberto De Venecia, & participated by then Ambassador Victor Garcia III.
Business discussions were conducted & moderated by the Head Panel between the Business Delegation from the Philippines and Russian Businessmen. The head panel was composed of former Ambassador Victor Garcia III, PRBC Chairman Roberto De Venecia, & the Officials of the Russian Chamber of Commerce
The “Federal Council of the Federal Council” is the counterpart of the Senate of the Philippines. RDV
Photo shows PRBC Chairman Roberto De Venecia receiving a medal of distinction and award from Deputy Chairman of the Federal Council of the Federal Assembly of Russia & who is also the Chairman of the International
Public Movement ‘Eastern Dimension’ . Eastern Dimension is a nongovernmental organization whose activity is directed to the expansion of Russia-ASEAN dialogue. The Movement
unites Russian and foreign representatives of economic, financial, scientific, and technical societies. It also aims to form favorable conditions for further expansion of commerce, economic, scientific, technical,
investment, ecological, cultural, and other forms of collaboration between Russian and ASEAN States. The Federal Council of the Federal Assembly of Russia is the counterpart of the Senate of the
Philippines. The award was bestowed on De Venecia for his unrelenting support to promote and enhance friendly and trade relations with the Russia. He lead a business delegation to Moscow to promote
and encourage cooperation between Philippines and Russian businessmen. He is the currently the Chairman of the PhilippinesRussia business Council (PRBC).
B NOVEMBER 9-11, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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cover story The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - November 9, 2016
Joseph Lim’s ‘Half of My Life: The Testimony of a Father and His Special Needs Child’
A true story of unconditional love and unwavering faith by Malou liwanag-Bledsoe / AJPress ONe of the things that parents wish for is for their child to grow up normal and healthy. So when Joseph Lim and his wife first found out about their son Jordan’s autism, they were devastated, even though they had a feeling about it. “We noticed for some time that Jordan was behind his social development and his speech was delayed. But our fears were finally confirmed with the diagnosis of autism,” said Joseph in an e-mail interview with the Asian Journal. “But still, our hearts broke for him. For so many years he was misunderstood. I can only imagine how hard it must have been on him to be misjudged all this time but unable to speak up for himself.” With all the frustration, anger and pain in watching his son fight through the challenges as well as battling hard for Jordan’s services and care, Joseph de-
cided to write a poem entitled, “Half My Life.” Years later, it grew into a biographical journal of Jordan and his family. “Being autistic, Jordan is not able to communicate effectively. He can speak fine, but cannot express his thoughts and feelings well. He can’t hold a lengthy conversation,” he said and then added, “And I can clearly see the frustration in his eyes and body language when he can’t get his point across properly. So with this book, I have the opportunity to speak for him. I can be his voice when he cannot speak for himself. I know my son better than most anyone else, and with this book I hope to do him justice.” Joseph shared that the challenges in writing the book was mainly emotional. There were positive experiences, but of course there were difficult ones. One thing that stands out
Joseph and Jordan with the rest of their family
for him was the chapter when he talked about Jordan’s diabetes. “Interestingly, when I first started writing my book, Jordan only had autism. But in the middle of writing it, he developed Type 1 diabetes. All of a sudden his health issues became more than just social and developmental, they are also physical. His life is at stake now. This added an entirely new level of difficulty to his challenges and a whole new dimension to his story that I needed to tell. “I recall numerous times during the editing process and even as I read through my book today when I had to take a break because it was too difficult.” Published by Christian Faith Publishing, “Half My Life: The Testimony of a Father and His Special Needs Child” is a vivid chronicle of the highlights and struggles one family experiences with a special child diagnosed
Joseph with Jordan.
with autism and diabetes. Despite the challenges, Joseph and the rest of the family consider Jordan to be one of their greatest blessings on earth. Joseph also acknowledges that although he lets all his children know that he will always be there for them, it was his wife who did majority of the legwork in dealing with Jordan’s autism. “...She took the bull by the horns,” he said. “She did the research, attended seminars, read books, talked to experts and other parents. Through her diligence motivated by her love, Jordan has several services provided to him.” It was also his wife who completely opened his eyes about the reality of Jordan’s condition. “She said, ‘You know what… If you can’t even try to understand your own son, then how can you expect others to?’ That statement whipped me back into place. Because I realized that if anything is to happen for Jordan’s benefit, and if anyone’s attitude is to improve towards him, then it has to begin with me. From that point forward, I would never misunderstand Jordan again, not intentionally. I already loved him as my son, but I became his biggest fan under all circumstances. Of course, ultimately, they turn to God for strength and guidance to push through all the challenges. “We don’t know what His purpose is in Jordan being the way he is, but we put our full
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trust in Him,” Joseph said. “ I realize that not everyone reading this may share the same religious beliefs as I have, or even believes in God. But I know that every family deals with their struggles their own way. And I’m just explaining the way that I dealt with mine; it’s through my faith in God.” Joseph wants to reach out and ask for people’s support by purchasing the book and spreading the word about it. explaining that it’s not about him personally, but is actually for a good cause because a portion of the book sales goes to selected charities for autism, diabetes, and special kids. “(Certainly,) I want to reach the special ed community – in particular, the families of other special needs children. To inspire them and let them know that they’re not alone in their struggle. I know every child is unique, every situation is different, and the dynamics of every family vary by household. But for the most part, I believe we can relate,” Joseph explained and then added, “After all, we share a common challenge in working through our children’s conditions, and we share a common desire to obtain the best services and benefits for them. And to the general public, I’m hoping that my book brings about greater awareness of special conditions, and compassion towards these awesome kids and their families.” At present, their family is
working hard to prepare Jordan for the future. “ Jordan has many awesome qualities. He’s loving and friendly, he loves greeting people, he likes to read people’s name tags at stores, and he’s a stickler for schedule and routines. We plan to use these characteristics to get Jordan a viable job when he becomes an adult. He will still need full time supervision, but at least he’ll be working. We’re trying to get him to be as independent as possible even though we know he will need total care for the rest of his life. This is actually one of our biggest concerns. What will become of Jordan when my wife and I are no longer earth? Fortunately, my wonderful daughters have agreed to care for their brother when we’re gone. Furthermore, whoever they marry will need to love Jordan too. They can never mistreat him. If they truly love my daughters, they will also love my son. My daughters have agreed to find men who are willing to make that commitment, and I trust my girls completely.” “Half My Life: The Testimony of a Father and His Special Needs Child” is available at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon. com, Apple iTunes store, Kobo or Barnes and Noble. On social media: www. facebook.com/Half-My-Life-TheTestimony-of-a-Father-and-HisSpecial-Needs-Child-619100761 589405/?fref=ts.
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entertainment 3 Anne Curtis joins New York Marathon, dedicates run to Filipino youth The Asian Journal MDWK MAGAZINE - November 9, 2016
TelevisioN host and actress Anne Curtis has crossed an item off her bucket list as she finished the New York Marathon, dubbed as the largest marathon in the world that coursed through five boroughs of the city. Curtis, UNiCeF Philippines’ celebrity advocate for children, dedicated her first ever marathon, which she called a “dream come true and personal milestone,” to the Filipino youth. “i did it! My very first marathon in NYC! What a bucket list moment. i can’t explain how fulfilling it is when you cross the finish line. it certainly isn’t easy but the whole experience is worth the physical pain. each borough (there were 5) had a different feel, music and vibe. The spectators are there to cheer you on, give you power up high-fives and push you when you feel like you want to stop,” Curtis wrote on instagram, sharing a photo of her wearing a medal. “To all the kababayans that were out there today to cheer me on… screaming and some
Photo from Anne Curtis’s Instagram account
raise at least P42,000 for the 42 kilometers she ran, proceeds of which will go to UNiCeF Philippines. As of writing, Curtis has raised P52,353 from 22 donors. Curtis’ “it’s showtime” co-host Kim Atienza also joined the marathon, but had gastrointestinal issues. “it was still a good race nevertheless, definitely the best marathon in the world,” Atienza wrote on instagram. (Inquirer.net)
even with posters, Maraming salamat. Nakakaiyak and yan po ang dahilan kung bakit halos hindi nawala ang ngiti ko (Thank you so much. It’s touching and it’s why I the smile never left my face). After my first… i would like to conquer more! 26.2 or 42.165 dedicated and inspired by the FiliPiNo YoUTH and it’s through God’s grace, i FiNisHeD,” she added. Aside from finishing the race, Curtis also targeted to
Kris Aquino is set to make a television hosting comeback with an interview with President Rodrigo Duterte.
Kris Aquino to interview Pres. Duterte THe “Queen of All Media” Kris Aquino on sunday, Nov. 6 revealed that she will return as a television host starting with an interview with President Rodrigo Duterte. The actress-host has stopped hosting seven months ago due to health reasons. “(i spent) seven months of not hosting on Tv. i promised myself, babalik ako for a once in a lifetime, one-on-one interview,” Kris said in an instagram post.
Kris posted the photo of a teaser her anticipated interview comeback titled “Kris at Duterte.” it will be aired over Tv5 and state-owned People’s Television-4 networks following her seven months of absence. Duterte is the successor of Kris’s brother, President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino iii, and the rival of Mar Roxas, the presidential candidate she campaigned for the May 9 elections.
The Kris-Duterte sitdown was also shared by host organization Go Negosyo on Twitter. last september, Kris confirmed that she formally left ABs-CBN, her network for 20 years. she later on announced that she will do a project with APT, a subsidiary Tape inc. The latter is also the producer of noontime show “eat Bulaga.” (Rosette Adel/Philstar. com)
Alfred Vargas finds fulfillment in family life and public service seCoND-term Quezon City Representative and actor Alfred vargas recently held a thanksgiving luncheon just before the long Halloween-All souls Day weekend to celebrate the many blessings he received and achievements he made as he turned 37-yearsold on october 24. “At 37, i have a lot to be grateful for—my beautiful wife, Yasmine, whom i will marry again in church next year, two wonderful daughters, and a career in public service that is surely one of the most fulfilling careers in one’s lifetime,” vargas said. The actor-politician proposed for the second time to his Filipino-italian wife in July,
and received an overwhelming yes. They had a civil wedding in 2010 and are busy preparing for their church wedding ceremony in July 2017. Fatherhood has played a big role in vargas’ life. “i make sure i wake up extra early during weekdays so i can personally bring my kids to school, and i strive to be home by 7 p.m. everyday so my family and i can have dinner together,” shared vargas. “Nothing beats spending quality time with the family.” vargas has also been busy working on his legislative agenda soon as he assumed his second term in Congress. He was recently appointed vice Chairman of the Committee
Vargas with wife Yasmine and daughters Aryana and Alexandra
on Appropriations, a coveted position in Congress that brings with it the enormous responsibility of defending the budgets of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the National Housing Authority (NHA), and the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC). All three government agencies’ budgets gained approval. While vargas may be one of the younger lawmakers in the lower House, and has no political lineage to back his ascent in politics, he continues to impress the more senior members of Congress with his legislation initiatives. During the 16th Congress, he was able to pass into law 15 Republic Acts, including the Mandatory Philhealth Coverage for All senior Citizens. Another feather to his cap is his perfect attendance record, as well as being included among the top congressmen in terms of legislative performance. Today, barely five months into his second term, he has submitted over 100 principally authored bills. vargas may have a lot of things to be proud of but said he is far from being accomplished and complacent, as these things are only pushing him to outdo himself. Quoting the mantra of socio-civic organization Jaycees international, of which he was recently elected as chapter president, “service to humanity is the best work of life,” vargas concluded. (ManilaTimes.net)
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Angelina Mead King, Caitlyn Jenner bond over cars, coffee Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa: Eat right, pray regularly & love your body 4
The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - November 9, 2016
by
Mylene Mendoza-dayrit Philstar.com
FILIPINaS are taking the world by storm. The latest lady to make headlines is Kylie Verzosa. her loyal fans may have been disappointed when she didn’t take home the title of Bb. Pilipinas Universe 2016, but it may have been a blessing in disguise. The 5’9 stunner just brought home the Miss International crown from Tokyo, making her the sixth Filipina to hold the title. She draws strength from within, attributing her success to her balanced physical, emotional, and spiritual health and well-being. That means working out, eating right, reading, volunteering, and
praying regularly for holistic wellness. We caught up with her before she left for Tokyo at her cover shoot for Shape Philippines to talk about contest preparation, health and fitness. The Philippine Star: How does it feel to be crowned Bb. Pilipinas International 2016? Kylie Verzosa: Indescribable! It surprised me and it’s a rollercoaster of emotions, but I’m so grateful for everything that has happened. I’m really happy. We heard you are a teacher and an advocate for depression and suicide awareness. I used to teach kids. I love kids. recently, I was a volunteer for iVolunteer Ph, a website where you can volunteer for different organizations. I volunteered for Bayanihan and these are out-of-school kids. I did this because last Sunday, I really missed kids since I used to teach preschool and it’s really happy when you’re with the kids. For depression awareness, I found the foundation through a friend and I decided to volunteer for it and be part of it. Depression is something very close to me because it’s something that I don’t think people really talk about and it’s a stigma. I want to speak out about it because not many people focus on mental well-being; instead, they focus so much on the physical aspect of the person. It makes me happy that I get to speak out about it and in return, a lot of people come to me as well to share their experiences and it makes me feel better. I’ve been doing all this starting after
college. How do you keep yourself fit despite your busy schedule? I go to the gym as often as I can. I try to move every day. I try to do cardio every day. I balance it between Pilates, cycling, yoga, going to the gym, lifting weights, and resistance training. Sometimes, I work out with a trainer, sometimes not. It’s really all about balance and finding time for it. We saw your upside-down Pilates photos on Instagram. How did you manage to do that? I started Pilates just recently. People were wondering how did I do that? I’ve been doing yoga for three years now. It was something I did more for me and realized it helped me improve myself, find calmness and serenity. I became more flexible through yoga then because of Pilates; I found out “Oh, I can do this” and it became one of my favorite workouts because while you’re doing Pilates, you get to target parts of your body that you don’t always get to work out in the gym. It’s quite dynamic and I enjoy it a lot plus it’s a whole different environment from something I was used to. What aspects of your physical fitness do you think got developed from Pilates and yoga? Flexibility, that’s one. But for me, what works is I find myself more peaceful when I go to yoga and as cliched as it may sound, it may not be for everyone, but it has helped me. and I think that’s what’s important in fitness. You have to be experimental and know what works for you and what doesn’t. That’s also the beauty of having your own body — you get to experiment what’s good for you and what’s not and that goes for fitness as well. What are the advantages Continued on Page 6
Car enthusiast angelina Mead King on Monday, Nov. 7 shared her encounter with fellow transgender woman Caitlyn Jenner in California, a moment which she called as “surreal.” King, the partner of VJ and model Joey Mead King, said she and Jenner were brought together by their love of cars. King, who attended the recently held SEMa 2016 automotive show in Las Vegas, has a business venture called Car Porn racing. “I still can’t believe it, this morning was so surreal! Cars, coffee and Caitlyn. Brought together for the love of cars. Thank you to @e_n_o_r_e_v for capturing this moment. it’s perfect. #carscoffeeandcait #caitlynjenner #girlslikeus,” King wrote on the caption of her photo with Jenner on Instagram. Joey Mead shared the same photo on her Instagram account with the caption: “Truth and authenticity, a winning combination in my eyes.” King also posted a photo of her and her friends having breakfast with Jenner.
Angelina Mead King shared this photo of her with Caitlyn Jenner on her Instagram account
King, a formerly known as businessman and hotelier Ian angelo, came out as transgender woman through an Instagram post in July. Jenner, formerly known as
Bruce, was a retired Olympian and stepdad of Kardashian siblings Kim, Khloe, and Kourtney. She came out in a television interview in august last year. (Inquirer.net)
Vice Ganda, Bb. Pilipinas 2016 queens headline annual Christmas tree lighting Kristy so Philstar.com
by
ThE araneta Group has marked the start of the Christmas season with their annual giant Christmas tree lighting. The Christmas tree lighting happened on November 4 at the araneta activity center with a grander setup and activities that spectators enjoyed. aside from the colorful and lively lights and decors, the audience also enjoyed performances from their favorite Kapamilya stars like Vice Ganda, alex Gonzaga, Iñigo Pascual and Loisa andalio. The Bb. Pilipinas queens were also present that night, sending more positive vibes to everyone in the venue.
Vice Ganda, Stella Araneta-Marquez and Bb. Pilipinas 2016 queens lighted up the giant Christmas tree found in Araneta Center activity center in Cubao, Quezon City. Philstar.com photo by Jonathan Asuncion
The audience was not only entertained for some were lucky enough to take home
prizes from the araneta Group of companies and its sponsors that night.
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#Lifehacks from ‘it’ mom Georgina Wilson by deni Rose M. AfinidAd-BeRnARdo
Filipino-made doll named Miss Beauty Doll 2016 by Rosette
Adel
Philstar.com
a PhILIPPINE-made doll named Shawnah Bautista Vasquez was added to the list of the country’s beauty queens after it was crowned Miss Beauty Doll 2016. Shawnah, who emerged as the Miss Beauty Doll 2016 after being directed by Cholo ayuyao, was described as a 23“Make sure that you’re fully dedicated and are in it for the right reasons, because if you’re in it just to year-old from angeles City. get rich, you’re not going to be happy.” Philstar.com photo by Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo according to her biograadvised expectant moms like her. “ask tips from your fellow moms… No one can tell you what’s right or wrong. Listen to the advice, but make your own decisions and do what you feel is right for yourself and your baby.” Like Britney Spears and Demi Moore, she said she made a “very shocking cover” of her pregnant state for a local magazine, which will come out anytime soon. On fashion her sense of style did not change because of the pregnancy. “I hardly buy any new clothes. I just use whatever I have,” confessed the model, who was in low heels during the recent launch of Sunnies Café’s Megamall branch. On parenting Besides being a cool mom, she hopes that her life will not change too much when the baby comes. On business For those who want to
be successful in business like Georgina, she said: “You have to do something that you love. Make sure that you’re fully dedicated and are in it for the right reasons, because if you’re in it just to get rich, you’re not going to be happy. You really have to love what you’re doing. Give respect to the people you’re working with and make a difference in your community.” On giving back true to a Christmas chant that says, “Give love on Christmas Day,” on an episode of “It Girls,” Georgina can be seen reaching out to build a village for non-government, pro-poor organization Gawad Kalinga. “I want to work next on education. It’s so important for me,” shared the model, who was an a-student and a math whiz with college degrees in finance, economics and accounting.
A Philippine-made doll was added to the list of the country’s beauty queens after it was crowned Miss Beauty Doll 2016. Photos from Miss Beauty Doll 2016
phy, Shawnah is a “professional model, a home cook, and journalism graduate” and is also a “prolific blogger” who writes about her work as a model. Shawnah bagged a crown with red ruby and diamonds designed by Chatiara valued at $1000. the Philippine representative was seconded by Miss
Vietnam, Dang thuy Nam, followed by second runnerup Miss Puerto Rico Denise Marrie torres and third runnerup Miss Dominican Republic Cinthya Santos. Miss India Isha Narayan Kalpana was the fourth runner-up. ayuyao, Miss Beauty Doll 2016 Philippines national director, was overwhelmed by Shawnah’s win.
MJ Lastimosa lives the beauty queen and showbiz-life by MJ
MARfoRi ManilaTimes.net
It’S been two years since Mary Jean “MJ” Lastimosa represented the country to the 2014 Miss Universe Pageant in Miami. But long after her reign, her beauty—and talent—continues to thrive in the spotlight. With both her feet now in showbiz, In the Know was amazed to find out that MJ has no manager despite her jampacked schedule. She is officially one of the favorite go-to celebrities for hosting gigs as well as corporate and tV guestings, thanks to her easygoing and ready-for-anything attitude. “Kailangang kumayod,” she quipped. “I just really prayed for it [her newfound career], and I was really scared because I joined Binibining Pilipinas three times, so there were times when I wasn’t doing anything but preparing for the pageant. and then I also
Mary Jean Lastimosa
failed to make it to the top 5 of Miss Universe… I was worried I’d have nothing to do next.” With all her uncertainty behind her, MJ is grateful to have found her place in the biz. Besides her hosting and guesting stints, she also recently finished shooting
a new reality show with former Ilocos Sur Governor Chavit Singson and Miss International 2013 Bea Rose Santiago titled “happy Life,” where they went around the Philippines to help the less fortunate with big time surprises. “It’s always been a dream for me to have a job that requires lots of traveling, and at the same time, be able to help others. So you can say that the purpose of a beauty queen is still there in what I do now.” after “happy Life,” MJ said she is bent on sharpening her hosting and acting skills, leaving her no time for love. Back in august, she was linked to aBS-CBN hottie Rayver Cruz but the buzz soon fizzled out. “I’m thankful to busy myself with work so I’m just taking my time. If someone wants to invite me or is interested to get to know me, I’d go but for now, I just don’t have the time for my love life.”
Misses U beauties on the pageant’s return to Manila aLL systems go for the mounting of the Miss Universe pageant in Manila on Jan. 30, 2017 the third time over (first was in 1974 won by the late amparo Muñoz of Spain and the second was in 1994 won by India’s Sushmita Sen). Funfare asked what the homegrown Misses U beauties have to say. • Gloria Diaz, Miss U 1969: actually, I don’t know for sure. I am not even sure we can afford it or rather if we should afford it. according to several people, it will be all private money. Wish that together with the pageant also some new MRt and LRt trains. Or something which many people will benefit from. I am allowed to dream, no! • Margie Moran, Miss U 1973: It’s good for a short-term
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - November 9, 2016
Philstar.com
What can an ‘it’ girl who has everything could ever wish for this Christmas? “Sleep!” Georgina WilsonBurnand, who is yet to come up with a holiday wish list, told this writer in an interview. the star of the reality tV show “It Girls” and former “asia’s Next top Model” host also has no plans yet for the season, except to open another branch of Sunnies Café, the dining joint she co-owns with Bea Soriano-Dee, Eric Dee Jr., and Martine Cajucom, who can also be seen on “It Girls.” “how to be you, po?” many Filipinos ask, and these are Georgina’s answers. On being a reality TV star Georgina shared that on “It Girls,” she withheld nothing. “It’s all out in the open, no holds barred,” she enthused. “It’s such a cool experience. I really enjoyed it. I get to see all my friends so much more.” On pregnancy, diet and fitness the model-entrepreneur admitted, “I haven’t been focusing much on my pregnancy. I’ve been so busy with work.” She said even people around her keep on forgetting that she is pregnant. She used to cook when she was still studying, but ever since she became busy, she has been unable to. She hopes she could cook again for her baby. “Listen to your body. Do what you feel is right,” she
entertainment
1969 Miss Universe Gloria Diaz (with her good friend, Thailand’s first Miss Universe [1965] Apasra Hongsakula, during a recent visit to Bangkok)…1973 Miss Universe Margie Moran…and 2013 Miss Universe third runner-up Ariella Arida.
tourism marketing exposure. Our cities and tourism venues will be exposed to millions of viewers. It will also be a fitting homecoming for Pia (Wurtzbach) when she passes on the title. • ariella arida, Miss U 2013 third runner-up: as a Filipino, I am very happy that the pageant will be held here. after
two decades, the pageant fans will witness this historical event right at home. Of course, it will also boost tourism in our country. I can’t wait for everyone to see how beautiful our country is. as a friend, I am very happy that Pia will crown her successor here. It’s a dream to bring the pageant here. (Philstar.com)
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entertainment The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - November 9, 2016
Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa... From Page 4
of living a fit and healthy lifestyle aside from the aesthetic benefit? It helps manage your stress and balance your life. When you’re healthy, it also affects the way you feel about yourself, which I feel is very important,
especially among young girls today. It keeps you also mentally active and it gets rid of your stress, that’s what’s good about it. What kind of eating habits did you start out with before preparing for competitions? I have to say it’s so difficult
because I love food! We have to be at our very best. I watch what I eat now very much, but I try not to deprive myself of anything. My diet right now is low carb and high protein. Fruits and vegetables. I stay away from sugar, salt, mostly sugar. I try not to snack in between meals. I try to have enough protein in every meal because I know it helps burn fat. I don’t have any rice, but I do try and eat my complex carbs because our body needs them to keep us going and to keep us happy. Protein also helps you feel full throughout the day, and fruits and veggies give you vitality. I go for fish. I love chicken. I like chicken, fish, and nuts. Tell us more about your thoughts on the mind-body connection. It’s the thing that not many people are open about. We focus too much on the physical aspect. Your happiness comes from outward things, not knowing you have the power to control everything that you can. The things you put into your body and the things you do to your body are heavily influenced by the way you think. With a healthy mind, you get to think well, you become happier, you become stress-free, you think deeper, you make better connections. You become more whole as a person. It’s well-being. Also I wanted to put in the spiritual aspect of it. It’s also very important. Prayer helps. Why do you love your shape? I think it’s all about knowing what’s best to do for your body and what not to do. Doing the very best you can and then accepting it and also putting so much effort into it. And I love my body and I think everyone should love their body because they are already beautiful. You should love your shape. People come in all shapes and sizes. Girls come in all shapes and sizes so they have to accept that. And also don’t compare yourself to others.
Paolo Ballesteros made himself up like Julia Roberts when he received his Best Actor Award (for Die Beautiful) at the Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF). Right: Paolo (in another celebrity peg) with (from left) producer Ferdy Lapuz, director Jun Lana and producer Perci Intalan.
Paolo dedicates award to the LGBT community by Ricky Lo
actually, “I’m straight.” Perhaps in his excitement, incredulous about his unexEvEN before Paolo Ballespected victory, Paolo (dressed teros’ name was announced and made up like Julia Roberts) the Best Actor winner by the presenter Mabel Cheung (Hong forgot to mention the LGBT Kong film director and member community, after all Die Beautiful was inspired by the killing of the jury) at the just-concluded Tokyo International Film of transgender woman Jennifer Laude by US Marine Col. Festival (TIFF), the Philippine Joseph Scott Pemberton who team (also including director was convicted of homicide and Jun Lana, and producers Perci is detained at Camp Crame. Intalan and Ferdy Lapuz) start“Yes,” Paolo told Funfare ed shouting with joy. Cheung’s in a text message yesterday, “I introduction was a giveaway. am dedicating my award to the “This year’s Best Actor Award goes to performance so LGBT community.” “At that time (in October vividly delivered and character2014),” director Jun told a ization so genuinely afforded that it has led us to the journey film critic, “a Filipino transgender woman was killed in my between fiction and reality,” country.” (Jun was described as Cheung started. “It seems flabbergasted by the reaction that the actor has the ability to of some people, especially on share with us his innermost sesocial media, when they said crets and vulnerability. He also has the magical ability to merge that Laude deserved to be killed because she was a transthe boundaries between male and female so much so that we gender and she was a freak.) have to ask whether we should “And I felt it was time to make a film about her, a film inspired name the award Best Actor or Best Actress. So I’m very proud by (her killing).” It must be recalled that Jun to present to you the award also directed Barber’s Tales, for the Best Actor, which goes the film that won for Eugene to the leading man, or should Domingo Best Actress also at I say, the leading lady of Die the TIFF in 2013. Beautiful, Paolo Ballesteros.” Anyway, Paolo (who made Directed by Jun Lana, Die Beautiful also bagged the Audi- himself up like Angelina Jolie ence Award, announced earlier. for her star moment on the red carpet) delivered a thank-you That, in a manner of speaking, speech in his characteristic funwas hitting two birds with one ny/witty style that it deserved stone. Paolo is so convincing to be “delivered” in this space in playing a transgender in the movie that the Japanese media in full. Here it is: I thought today it’s just was surprised when Paolo said going to be a red carpet thing, at a press conference that, Philstar.com
like a parade, that’s why I wore a dress. First, I would like to thank Tokyo International Film Festival and the members of the jury for embracing our film. I thought I was up for Best Actress (laughs). To the organizers, to the programmers, to the volunteers, assistants, you have been very helpful and gracious to us during our stay in Japan. Domo Arigato Gozaimasu. To the man behind the film, Direk Jun, thank you very much for entrusting me the Tricia character. To our producers, Sir Perci, to our staff and crew, to the whole production, especially those who are with us tonight, today, thank you so much for your professionalism and gift of new friendship. To Ms. Liza Diño Seguerra, thank you for your support. And to my family, Mama, Ate Lylie, Chikee, Tatay, Kaye, Nanay, Rana, Eyel, my daughter Keira, our cats and our dogs, this is all for you. Thank you very much. To my manager (Joji Dingcong), to all my dabarkads, to all my friends, my fans in Manila and around the world, Best Actor. And especially to all of you who came and watched our film, I will never forget you. Thank you very much. Incidentally, Paolo’s sixmonth suspension from Eat, Bulaga! turned out to be a blessing in disguise because he was able to finish work on two films, Die Beautiful and Bakit Lahat ng Gwapo May Boyfriend? (also directed by Jun).
features
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - November 9, 2016
Moonlighting by Mylah de
leon
LAS VEGAS – A boxer’s skills erodes a lot quicker in this crazy roulette called boxing, like no other sport offers. Here today, gone tomorrow (but millions richer); the peacock today, is a feather dust tomorrow. There is a tremendous fascination in every fight, in the multi-level on which it is played and the relative fluidity of commerce. It is a brutal, abominable game -- the human beast fighting itself. Yet as much as you condemn it, boxing always excites in the end. When you’re there, you get more anxious, until you find yourself caught up in it, taking part, urging them on! A few minutes afterwards, you’re ashamed that you let go! Inside the bigger than life Thomas and Mack Center, when Bob Arum brought the fight to an unannounced crowd to a capacity of screaming spectators from all over the world, it seems to presume that boxing in his helm is indeed going places even away from the casinos. On the evening of the big fight everything collided for attention: the flashing bulb, racing on and off -- bizarre and blinding -- and fans out to prove there is no Pacquiao fatigue. Now on my 9th year of boxing coverage, it still gave one a distinctively heady feeling of being on a stage. Like a carnival, its flamboyance and excitement, and extraordinary vigor, the brawl was noisy and chaotic. Everyone was on fire as Pacquiao dropped Vargas. It was the first time in his professional career to hit the canvas, with a straight right in the second round. The announcement Pacquiao’s retirement after he beat Timothy Bradley in April
Once more, the evening belonged to Pacquiao
Ringside highlights
Jinky Pacquiao talks about his new role, as a senator’s wife. AJPress photos by Robert Macabagdal
was never taken seriously by his fans. He however, backed off those claims in the ring afterwards. After all, didn’t he reconsider his options? But seven months later, even with his day work as Senator back home, he was back fighting Vargas. His brilliance and legacy says, it has always been more who he fights, than any belts he might still collect. He already has an eight division world championship in his resume. A mixture of cheers and boos were heard from the arena last Saturday night as Mayweather Jr. was seen taking his ring side seat with a retinue of body guards. His presence was instant material for columnists. He just appeared, and he wasn’t even promoting a fight. Questions rose, creating conversation of him making a return, perhaps going further he might actually have to answer the call of a second edition with Pacquiao. His record stands at 49-0 and should he be inclined to get back into another fight for real. Boxing sport buff figures such a fight would occur in May or September. It is said that while Mayweather’s skills showed little to no sign of eroding, but every-
thing will show wear and tear at some point. We asked Mayweather immediately after the fight what he thought of the winner’s performance. He smiled and said, “Not bad.” Boxing hopes his appearance is a sign of things to come? At his post fight statement, the champ said of his next fight: “I don’t know who my next opponent will be…I will fight the people I want.” I said, “Senator, give us a hint…Senator, is it the guy who was sitting at the ringside earlier?” He only chuckled. In the last nine years, I’ve covered the title bouts of Pacquiao. He is still subject to the same changing winds that move him inside or outside the ring. In some bouts he fought with the killer instinct, but in some he tasted the salty pains of injustice. Through it all, he showed more than physical strength -- the resilience of the spirit, in the easy smile with gracious ease before strangers. A boxer whose success seemed practically ordained. And everytime he does that celebratory shuffle on his feet after the final bell, the crowd goes into a deadening roar! *** E-mail Mylah at moonlightingmdl@aol.com
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - November 9, 2016
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