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T H E F I L I P I N O –A M E R I C A N C O M M U N I T Y N E W S PA P E R
Volume 26 - No. 80 • 3 Sections - 20 Pages
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US to focus on ‘broad relationship’ with PH by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
ALLIES. Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Commander of US Pacific Command (USPACOM), Adm. Harry B. Harris, render honors during an honor ceremony at the USPACOM headquarters. Lorenzana is in Hawaii to attend an U.S.-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defense Informal hosted by Secretary of Defense Ash Carter and to meet with Harris to discuss the U.S.-Philippines defense relationship. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Jay M. Chu
DATELINE
USA
FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
Supreme Court will not rehear Obama immigration plan
THE Supreme Court on Monday, October 3 declined to rehear President Barack Obama’s immigration plan which would have spared millions of undocumented immigrants from deportation. This upholds the 4-4 “non-decision” of the United States v. Texas case in June which killed the president’s immigration initiatives. In July the court — which has been one justice short following the death of Antonin Scalia — had received a request from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to rehear the case once the Court installed its ninth justice. The DOJ sought out the rehearing in a statement, arguing that it reflects “the need for prompt and definitive resolution of this important case.” Following the deadlocked decision, Acting Solicitor General Ian Gershengorn wrote that the Court “should grant rehearing to provide
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Fil-Ams make case for Clinton as race heats up in Nevada
FILIPINO-American supporters of Hillary Clinton in Nevada came together on the eve of Filipino American History Month to raise support for the Democratic presidential nominee in one of the most contentious battleground states. During the last week of September, the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) outreach team from Hillary for America launched “Our AAPI Voices; Our Voice, Our Vote”, a weeklong effort to garner support for their candidate while denouncing her opponent, Republican nominee Donald Trump. The group stressed that the Republican presidential nominee does not have interests of Fil-Ams in mind. They focused on his immigration plans like his proposed immigration ban from certain countries including the Philippines and a plan to end birthright citizenship.
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IN his latest tirades against the United States, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte told U.S. President Barack Obama to “go to hell” for “reprimanding another president in front of the international community” over the alleged summary killings during the current administration’s war against illegal drugs. “Instead of helping us, the first to hit was the State Department. So you can go to hell, Mr. Obama, you can go to hell,” the Philippine president said on Tuesday,
October 4, during the 3rd Sulong Pilipinas 2016 convention in Makati City. Addressing the European Union, he said “EU, better choose purgatory. Hell is full already. Why should I be afraid of you?” Sought for a comment, U.S. State Department spokesman John Kirby said Duterte’s comments were “at odds” with the two countries’ warm relationship and decades-long alliance. “We’ve already spoken to this sort of rhetoric,” Kirby said during a press briefing. “Frankly, it seems at odds with the warm
relationship that exists between the Filipino and American people and the record of important cooperation between our two governments, cooperation that has continued under the Duterte government.” Duterte also reaffirmed his earlier pronouncement that he will make a close ally out of China and Russia. Duterte said they told him they could provide military weapons. “If you (U.S.) don’t want to sell arms, I’ll go to Russia. I sent the generals to Russia and Russia said ‘do not worry, we have ev-
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DOT dismisses rumors of canceled Miss Universe Duterte says Russia, by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
THE Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) has dismissed rumors alleging that Miss Universe 2016 next January will be canceled. “We are not aware of any cancellation for Miss Universe. We are still having ongoing meetings with the MUO (Miss Universe Organization). Let us wait for official announcements before jumping into any conclusion,” DOT Undersecretary Kat De Castro told Inquirer on Monday, October 3. The rumors supposedly started when Department of Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo tells reporters on Tuesday, October reigning Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtz- 4 that the Miss Universe pageant will go ahead as planned.
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AJPress photo by Vince Samson
Senators Gordon, De Lima clash over Matobato kidnap case by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
THE fiery exchange between Senators Leila De Lima and Dick Gordon brought forth the suspension of the Senate hearing on Monday, October 3, over the alleged extrajudicial killings in relation to the present administration’s war on drugs. Gordon, chair of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, accused De Lima of
Senator Dick Gordon and Seantor Leila de Lima
“material concealment” when De Lima failed to mention that Edgar Matobato, a confessed member of the supposed Davao Death Squad (DDS), had a pending kidnapping for ransom case charged by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in 2000. The kidnapping case was supposedly filed by the wife of a
Inquirer.net photo
certain Sali Makdum. De Lima explained the case was in her notes, and committed an oversight in skipping its mention. Gordon, however, accused her of withholding information, which later prompted De Lima to walk out of the hearing.
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China supportive of his complaints about US by KLARIZE
MEDENILLA AJPress
IN a move that may further delineate the Philippines from the United States, President Rodrigo Duterte said that he received support from Russia and China when he complained to them about the U.S. On Sunday, October 2, Duterte said in a press conference that he had privately met with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev during last month’s summits for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Laos. “I met with Medvedev, I am revealing it to you now,” Duterte said. “I told him this is the situation: They are giving me a hard time, they are disrespecting me; they are shameless. He said: ‘That is really how the Americans are.’ He said: ‘We will help you.’” He added that officials from China told him that if the Philippines wants to move towards a more independent foreign policy — a goal of this administration — then the Philippines would benefit from distancing itself from the U.S. Duterte provided no other details about the matter at Monday’s press conference, but he has previously expressed interest in both nations. Last week, Duterte said that he was open to creating new alliances with Russia and China, particularly for trade and commerce. “I am asking the Filipinos in the coming days, if America will make good its threat, I’m going to ask you to sacrifice a little bit. But by next year, I would have entered into so many new alliances with so many countries,” he said in a speech in Pampanga. He added: “Russia has agreed to talk about how they can help us here. China is ready to help us with this goddamned problem of drugs.”
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LA City Hall marks Filipino American History Month AJPress FILIPINO American History Month kicked off on Friday, September 30 as Los Angeles City councilmembers and community leaders came together to honor Fil-Ams who are excelling in various fields from food to political advocacy. The LA Filipino Association of City Employees (LAFACE) — in partnership with Councilmembers Gil Cedillo, Mitch O’ Farrell and Jose Huizar, and Board of Public
Works Commissioner Joel Jacinto — recognized FilAm Arts, which marks its 25th anniversary this year; Ruby de Vera (political and community advocacy); Rembrandt Flores (entertainment); Gina Alexander (entrepreneurship); and The Park’s Finest (food). “It is my great pleasure to honor five Angeleno powerhouses who have helped shape Filipino-American history in Los Angeles through The LA Filipino Association of City Employees (LAFACE), together with LA City councilmembers, honored five their impressive contributions Filipino-American individuals and groups to celebrate the start of Filipino American History Month.
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AJPress photo by Noel Ty
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A OCTOBER 5-7, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
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From the Front Page
US to focus on ‘broad relationship’…
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erything you need, we’ll give it to you.’” The president went on to say, “And as for China, they said ‘just come over and sign and everything will be delivered.” ‘Broad relationship’ with PH Amid Duterte’s anti-U.S. rhetoric, the United States Embassy in Manila said on Monday, October 3, that it will continue to focus on its “broad relationship” with the Philippines. “America’s partnership with the Philippines has long been based on a foundation of shared values, including our shared belief in human rights and dignity,” US Embassy press attaché Molly Koscina said, adding “We continue to focus on our broad relationship; one of the most enduring and important relationships in the Asia-Pacific Region.” The U.S. also highlighted its partnership with the Philippines during the opening ceremonies of the 33rd iteration of the Phiblex (Philippine Amphibious
Landing Exercise) on Tuesday, October 4. According to Brig. Gen. John Jansen, commander of the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade of the US Marine Corps, the U.S.PH alliance remains a key source of stability in Asia. “Finally, in the 65th year of the Philippine-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty, our alliance remains a key source of stability in the Asia-Pacific region…The recurrence of Phiblex (Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise) reinforces the U.S. and Philippines’ commitment of our long-time partnership,” Jansen said. About 1,400 U.S. service members who were based in Okinawa, Japan, and 500 Filipino military personnel will participate in the two-week joint exercises that will be held in several areas in Luzon. Some of the activities include humanitarian civic assistance efforts, an amphibious landing exercise, and live-fire training featuring artillery.
“Through Phiblex, we are able to focus on opportunities that enable my Marines to develop capability and enhance personnel capacity to address various challenges that are regularly identified, cultivate support from our domestic allies for national initiatives and priorities and promote cooperation in addressing regional and international issues,” said Philippine Marine Chief Maj. Gen. Andre Costales. Last week, Duterte expressed his intention to scrap the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). “It does not contain the signature of (former President Benigno) Aquino. There is none. Better think twice now because I would be asking you to leave the Philippines altogether,” he said. The treaty, signed by former Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and U.S. Ambassador Philip Goldberg in 2014, allows U.S. forces to be deployed in Philippine territory temporarily and on
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MORE THAN 100 YEARS. Director General Ronald dela Rosa, chief of the Philippine National Police, is escorted by Chief Supt. Gilbert Sosa, police regional director, on Sunday during the 115th Police Service Anniversary celebration in Camp Addurru in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan. ManilaTimes.net photo
DOT dismisses rumors of canceled Miss…
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bach was tagged in De Castro’s Facebook post about crying. “Some are citing my post last Thursday BEFORE the Hitler issue. Pia & I had dinner. We were reminiscing. Hence, the “iyak (crying)” part. Chill lang,” De Castro clarified. Earlier this summer, the DOT announced that the Philippines will be the host country for the pageant.
DOT Secretary Wanda Teo on Tuesday, October 4 confirmed that venues to be visited include Cebu, Batangas, Metro Manila, Siargao, Vigan, Palawan, Bicol and Davao, following an MUO team’s inspection visit last week. The Miss Universe pageant’s coronation night will be held on January 30, 2017 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City with Steve Harvey as its host.
De Castro also noted that the unveiling of the DOT’s new campaign slogan will coincide with the pageant. “The [old] tagline is very general. Basically, the new campaign under Secretary Teo would be more specific in terms of destinations and the activities they can do,” De Castro said of why the DOT was dropping the “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” slogan. n
Supreme Court will not rehear Obama…
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for a decision by the court when it has a full complement of members, rather than allow a nonprecedential affirmance by an equally divided court to leave in place a nationwide injunction of such significance.” In 2014, an executive action introduced the Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents (DAPA), which would have allowed approximately 5 million undocumented immigrants to stay in the U.S. and receive benefits like work permits. After the programs were announced Texas, along with 25 other states, sued the admin-
istration over DAPA. They also challenged the proposed expansion of Obama’s 2012 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), which prevents deportation for undocumented immigrant children. “This is the latest setback to the president’s attempt to expand executive power and another victory for those who believe in the Constitution’s separation of powers and the rule of law,” Ken Paxton, Republican Texas Attorney General, said in a statement on Monday. The Court’s refusal to rehear the case leaves the issue up to the next administration. Immigration has been a key issue
during this presidential election, and consequently, both major candidates expressed differing opinions following the June ruling. Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton — who has promised to defend Obama’s immigration plans and create a pathway to citizenship — described the ruling as “heartbreaking.” Her opponent Donald Trump — who has trashed Obama’s immigration plans in the past and proposed his own strict policies — celebrated the ruling, saying the court has “kept us safe from [executive] amnesty.” (Klarize Medenilla / AJPress)
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From the Front Page
LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 5-7, 2016
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Senators Gordon, De Lima clash over…
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UPH STUDENTS WITH VST. Senate Majority Leader Vicente C. Sotto III poses with the students of University of Perpetual Help, together holding the banner of “Duterte Youth supports ROTC, CAT and Scouting”. Senate photo by Ramon A. Lopez
US to focus on ‘broad relationship’… PAGE A2 t
a for maritime security and humanitarian and disaster response operations. However, Navy Captain Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesman, said that “it hasn’t really so much translated into tangible actions that we’ve seen with regards to our actions under the alliance. “In as much as our alliance with the Philippines is concerned, it’s very much solid and stable and secure and on track,” David added. Apology for Hitler remarks Koscina also noted that the U.S. Embassy was “aware” of Duterte’s apology regarding his recent remarks that described Adolf Hitler’s Holocaust to be similar with his bloody campaign against illegal drugs. Speaking to the Jewish community on Sunday, October 2, Duterte said there was never an intention on his part “to derogate the memory of the six million Jews murdered by the Germans.” “I apologize profoundly and
deeply to the Jewish community,” the president said. Last Friday, September 30, Duterte stated he was willing to get rid of criminals, similar to what Hitler did to Jewish people. “Hitler massacred three million Jews. Now, there are three million drug addicts... I’d be happy to slaughter them,” Duterte related upon his arrival in Davao City after his official visit from Vietnam. The Philippine president went on to add, “At least if Germany had Hitler, the Philippines would have…You know my victims, I would like to be, all criminals, to finish the problem of my country and save the next generation from perdition.” His controversial remarks have brought condemnation from several international bodies including the United Nations (UN), the German and Israeli governments, the Pentagon, and other rights groups. Adama Dieng, a UN special adviser on the prevention of genocide, said Duterte’s Hitler
Duterte says Russia, China…
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He said that he plans to meet with Medvedev as well as Chinese President Xi Jinping. Russia and China have yet to respond to Duterte’s claims. Despite Duterte’s combative remarks, the U.S. has expressed commitment to maintaining the long-standing U.S./Philippine alliance, according to Mark Toner, a spokesperson for the U.S. State
Department. Toner said that Washington has not received official communication from the Malacañang regarding any of Duterte’s controversial comments. “We are not deaf. We do hear what he says, but our cooperation with the Philippine government remains strong and unabated,” Toner told the media last week. n
remarks were “deeply disrespectful of the right to life of all human beings.” “[The] Holocaust was one of the darkest periods of the history of humankind and that any glorification of the cruel and criminal acts committed by those responsible was unacceptable and offensive,” said a statement sent by the UN in Manila on October 3. He called on the Philippine president “to exercise restraint in the use of language that could exacerbate discrimination, hostility and violence and encourage the commission of criminal acts which, if widespread or systematic, could amount to crimes against humanity.” Meanwhile, the Anti-Defamation League, an international Jewish group based in the United States, said, “the comparison of drug users and dealers to Holocaust victims is inappropriate and deeply offensive.” “It is baffling why any leader would want to model himself after such a monster,” Todd Gutnick, the group’s director of communications, expressed. n
Countering Gordon’s accusation, the former justice secretary said Matobato had already disclosed the kidnapping during his first testimony and, therefore, can be found in the hearing transcript. In his first appearance at the hearing on September 2015, Matobato mentioned that Makdum was kidnapped and killed by DDS in 2002, upon the alleged orders of President Rodrigo Duterte when the latter was still the mayor of Davao City. “So where is the material concealment on the part of Senator De Lima? It pains me to be accused of material concealment,” De Lima said. De Lima then asked an apology from Gordon after his accusations. “Since no apology is forthcoming, I’m walking out,” De Lima said. Gordon then described De Lima’s walkout as “an act of cowardice.” Prior to De Lima and Gordon’s heated argument, Senator Antonio Trillanes, who has requested protective custody for Matobato, announced that Matobato had left the Senate premises for “security concerns” since he did not want him to travel at night. He later offered to bring Matobato to the next hearing. Trillanes also presented the transcripts of the September 15 testimony wherein Matobato mentioned the kidnapping case. On the other hand, Senator Manny Pacquiao moved for the termination of the hearing. The motion was followed by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano. Gordon, however, only suspended the hearing and said the committee would not resume its hearings “until further notice.” De Lima apologizes for ‘walk out’ The following day, De Lima apologized to the public for her ‘outburst’ and ‘walk out’ during
the Senate drug hearing on October 3. “I wish to apologize for the outrage last night and the walkout. But I’m addressing this apology to the public because I am still waiting for the apology of my colleagues,” De Lima told reporters on Tuesday, October 4. “Being accused of things you are not guilty of is too painful and is unacceptable,” she added. According to De Lima, walking out was her “best expression of protests.” “I was no longer liking it. I was
being ganged up [on].They’re not listening to me so what’s the point of staying there? To be further crucified by them? I was clearly outnumbered,” the senator explained. “I still have my self-esteem, notwithstanding the cruel things being done to me by the members of the House, some members of the Senate their cohorts outside.” De Lima said she is still waiting for Gordon’s apology after the latter accused her of withholding information. n
A OCTOBER 5-7, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
Dateline USa
US Supreme Court to hear Filipino immigrant’s case by Eric
Anthony LicAs AJPress
THE United States Supreme Court agreed on Thursday, September 29, to hear a case challenging laws governing the deportation of immigrants found guilty of certain crimes. Attorneys for James Dimaya, a Filipino from Hayward, California, argue that a 1996 law demanding the deportation of people convicted of a violent felony is too vague. Dimaya — who came from the Philippines in 1992 as a lawful permanent resident — was sentenced to a total of four years in prison after he was convicted of robbing a garage in 2007 and an empty house in 2009. In addition, Dimaya spent several more years behind bars waiting for an immigration hearing. Deportation proceedings were filed after he was released on
bond in March of this year. Since then, he has been fighting to stay in the U.S. California law categorizes any burglary as a “crime of violence.” In Dimaya’s deportation case, the Immigration judge sided with the Department of Homeland Security, which argued that unlawful entry carries an inherent “substantial risk” of violence. However, Dimaya’s lawyers said no people were harmed in the burglaries. They contend that the practice of categorizing all burglaries as violent crimes is an example of arbitrary enforcement. Without adequately defining “substantial risk,” the attorneys working Dimaya’s appeal say the law violates the Fifth Amendment. In addition, the Supreme Court ruled in a case last year that similar language in California’s Armed Career Criminals Act regarding violent crimes was un-
constitutionally vague. Lawyers for the appellant hope the justices ruling in Dimaya’s case will reflect that earlier decision. If that happens, immigrants in similar situations may get a better shot at fighting their removal from the U.S. The Supreme Court is expected to hear Dimaya’s case in June of next year. His bid to stay in the U.S. is just one of many undecided matters that will dramatically impact the country’s immigration policy. A stalemate in the Supreme Court left the status of the Deferred Action for Parents of Parents and Lawful Permanent Residents (DAPA) and the millions of immigrants it would have protected uncertain. The upcoming presidential election in November between two candidates with drastically different immigration plans could decide who fills the court’s vacancy. n
LA City Hall marks Filipino American…
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Fil-Ams make case for Clinton as race heats… PAGE A1 t
“The Filipino community can’t afford Donald Trump as president, which is why our campaign continues to organize, inform, and register Filipino voters across Clark County,” said Hillary for America’s National AAPI Outreach Director Jason Tengco. “While Trump wants to keep hard-working Filipino immigrants out of our country, Hillary Clinton wants to reduce the backlog for family reunification green cards.” The group also highlighted Clinton’s expressed commitment to “strengthen small businesses” while underscoring Trump’s plans on American commerce. “When AAPI businesses are strong, the AAPI community is strong. Hillary Clinton has a plan to strengthen small businesses by cutting red tape and increasing access to capital, while Donald Trump simply has a track record of stiffing contractors who did work for him,” said Filipino community leader Kate Torres-Recto. “Our businesses would suffer if Donald Trump becomes our next President as some analysts have
Jason Tengco (center), AAPI outreach director for Hillary Clinton’s campaign, with Las Vegas Fil-Am community leaders
predicted that Trump’s plans would cost 3.5 million jobs. We need a ‘you’re hired’ president, not a ‘you’re fired’ president. Nevada touts a large Filipino community with a majority located in the Las Vegas area. As stated in a previous Asian Journal report, U.S. Census Bureau data shows that “Filipinos comprise more than half of the Asian American population, with an estimated total of 100,000 Filipinos.” “It’s Filipino American History Month, so let’s honor their many contributions -- from serving in
WWII to strengthening our labor movement. -H,” Clinton tweeted on Monday, October 3. More Filipino Americans support Clinton over her opponent, mainly due to her stances on major issues like immigration, health care and education. A study conducted by APIAVote, Asian Americans Advancing Justice and AAPI Data showed that 59 percent of Fil-Am voters prefer Clinton, beating Trump who only garnered a 23 percent favorability rating. (Klarize Medenilla/AJ Press)
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through their various areas of expertise,” LAFACE President Rea Lazo said. She added that having examples of successful Fil-Ams would “inspire younger Fil-Ams to dream bigger.” LA is home to the largest concentration of Filipinos outside the Philippines at more than 300,000 Filipinos residing in LA County. Cedillo and O’Farrell led a presentation at a city council meeting wherein they awarded the five honorees with certificates and presented Philippine Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz with a resolution marking October as Fil-Am History Month. “I’m particularly proud to be here today as the representative of Historic Filipinotown, a neighborhood that has been home to Filipinos since the 1940s and served as a gateway for many Filipino immigrants in Los Angeles,” Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell, who represents the city’s 13th council district, said in his remarks inside the City Council chambers. Cedillo noted that FilAm Arts is “a leading presenter of tradition and emerging Filipino-American artists and art forms in Southern
LA City councilmember Gil Cedillo, former Filipino American National Historical Society (FAHNS) President Mel Orpilla, PH Consul General Adelio Cruz, Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell, and AJPress photos by Noel Ty Department of Public Works Boardmember Joel Jacinto
The presentation of the Filipino American History Month resolution and recognition of honorees inside the LA City Hall Council Chambers on Friday, September 30.
California.” On Saturday, October 8, FilAm Arts will host the 25th year of the Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) at Echo Park Lake.
The Park’s Finest, a Filipinoinspired BBQ restaurant in Historic Filipinotown, was hailed for being an “incredible force to be reckoned with in the ongoing
Filipino food revolution.” Mel Orpilla, immediate past president of the Filipino American National Historical Society (FAHNS), was present at the event and shared a brief history of when Filipinos first came to the United States. “History ties us to our communities — that’s why we have a Historic Filipinotown. It gives us a sense of pride in knowing where we’ve been, how far we’ve come. But it also gives us a chance to learn about our his-
tory,” Orpilla said. The month-long commemoration of Filipino-American history was first instituted by FAHNS in 1988. Throughout October, various Fil-Am groups will be hosting events in Los Angeles and greater Southern California. The Los Angeles and Pasig Rivers will sign a Sister River Agreement later this month, Jacinto announced. On Sunday, October 23, the Filipino American History Month Los Angeles Coalition is hosting
a “diverse array of intergenerational and trans-intercontinental talent” at the Greek Theater. Performers include Gary V and his son Gab Valenciano, R&B group Kai, YouTube sensation AJ Rafael and “The Voice” Season 9 artist Tim Atlas, among others. Actor Nico Santos from NBC’s new sitcom “Superstore” host the show, and culinary masterminds including Kristine de la Cruz and Lynne Tolentino will be onsite whipping up delicious Asian food for the attendees. n
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LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 5-7, 2016
Dateline PhiliPPines
Brussels may scrape PH royal visit after Duterte’s ‘Hitler’ remarks by Yuji
Vincent Gonzales Inquirer.net
BRUSSELS is now thinking twice whether or not to push through with its scheduled royal visit to the Philippines next year, according to a report by The Brussels Times. The report came after President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial remarks that drew parallels with Adolf Hitler’s killing of Jews during the Holocaust and his repeated tirades against the European Union and the United Nations on the issue of human rights amid his administration’s bloody war on drugs. Brussels State Secretary for External Trade Cécile Jodogne told La Libre Belgique that “it will be difficult to ensure” that the trade mission to be supposedly led by Princess Astrid to the Philippines in May 2017 would go ahead. The report said Jodogne sent an email to the Agency for External Trade’s partners on Friday requesting for an emergency meeting “to discuss whether the royal visit to the Philippines should still go ahead.” “I will ask for the visit to be moved to a different country. If Federal authorities and the two
President Rodrigo Duterte
other regions don’t agree, Brussels will not send a political representative. I’m not saying noone should go to the Philippines at all, but the problem right now is timing,” she was quoted as saying. Duterte on Friday said he would be “happy to slaughter” three million drug addicts in the Philippines by himself in the same way that Hitler had murdered millions of Jews before and during the Second World War. “If Germany had Hitler, the
Philippines would have …,” Duterte told reporters in Davao City upon arriving from an official visit to Vietnam, before pausing and pointing to himself. The President’s remarks drew a barrage of condemnation from the United Nations, German and Israeli governments, the Pentagon and international rights groups. Duterte on Sunday apologized to the Jewish community for his remarks, saying he did not intend to derogate their history. n
Senate adopts resolution opposing showing of De Lima ‘sex video’ by Maila
aGer Inquirer.net
THE Senate took a stand on Tuesday against the House of Representatives’ plan to show the alleged sex video of Senator Leila de Lima by adopting a resolution condemning and opposing it in the “the strongest possible terms.” All senators present at the Senate session hall unanimously adopted Senate Resolution 184, which was initiated by Senator Risa Hontiveros, chair of the Senate committee on women, and signed by Senators Grace Poe, Cynthia Villar, Nancy Binay and Loren Legarda. But in Senate Majority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III’s motion,
all the senators present at the session hall were later made coauthors of the resolution. Several senators, including President Rodrigo Duterte’s allies—Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and Senators Juan Miguel Zubiri and Joseph Victor Ejercito — even stood up on the floor to express their support for the resolution. “In all sincerity and humility, I wish to express my profound appreciation to my dear colleagues for this gesture. Maraming maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat (Thank you so much, everyone),” an emotional De Lima said after the approval of the resolution. The resolution said that the showing of the alleged sex scan-
dal would violate Republic Act 9995 or the Anti-Photo or Video Voyeurism Act of 2009 as well as Republic Act No. 4200 or the Anti Wiretapping Law. “It also violates the time-honored principle of inter-parliamentary courtesy given that Senator De Lima is a sitting senator and should therefore not be subjected to the ridicule and ignominy of a purported sex video,” it said. “Most importantly, it is a blow to our collective struggle to uplift the dignity of the woman, respect her agency and her autonomy over her own body, and is a form of slut-shaming that will not set a good example for the country,” the resolution said. Before this, Hontiveros deliv-
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OpiniOn
Features
Against all odds
DESPITE receiving a barrage of censure over his aggressive campaign against drugs and human rights violations under his reign, Pres. Rodrigo Duterte remains unfazed. The president has brewing friendships with China and Russia, and is bent on alienating the country’s long-standing alliance with the United States. Over the weekend, Duterte threatened to end the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), an agreement signed by the Philippines and the U.S. in 2014. EDCA grants the U.S. to increase its military presence in the Philippines through the rotation of ships and planes for humanitarian and maritime security operations. It allows American soldiers, warships and planes to temporarily hold bases at Filipino military locations. While the president continued his tirade against the U.S/, American troops joined Filipino forces on Tuesday, Oct. 4 for the opening of the Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise (Phiblex 33). 1,400 American and 500 Filipino military personnel will participate in the joint military exercise, aimed at improving readiness by the two countries to respond to a range of crises while deepening their historic ties. “The opportunity to train and build mutually ben-
eficial capabilities with our Armed Forces of the Philippines partners is essential for sharpening our bilateral amphibious and humanitarian assistance capabilities, both hallmarks of the U.S. Marine Corps” said Brig. Gen. John M. Jansen, Commanding General, 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade. “Exchanging expertise and cultivating our longstanding security alliance provides a cornerstone for security and stability in the region, and has for decades.” Phiblex 33 will feature an amphibious landing exercise and live-fire training featuring artillery, which are designed to advance cooperation, improve interoperability and assist in strengthening bilateral amphibious capabilities. This year’s exercise will also focus on general military skills, and enhancing professional and amicable relations, to help advance common regional security interests between U.S. servicemen and their counterparts in the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The military exchange will also include humanitarian and civic assistance to improve local infrastructure, and health engagements to exchange medical practices and supplement the medical
Editorial
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needs of Filipino citizens. For decades, the United States has maintained strong bilateral relations with the Philippines, based on a number of factors including robust domestic support for international security, joint strategic goals in the Asia Pacific, a mutual com-
mitment to democratic values, and historical ties. Despite the president’s repugnance to the U.S., both Filipino and American troops stand to benefit in these military exercises. It is through times like these that the close partnership between the two nations proves its value. (AJPress)
Clinton gains ground among independents after first debate with Trump IT’S less than five weeks to go before the citizens of America cast their votes to choose who will be the 45th President of the United States. As D-Day approaches, both Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton and Republican nominee Donald Trump, along with their surrogates, are continuing to make their cases as to why Clinton or Trump should be elected president. We’re seeing debates, campaign sorties, ads and good old face-to-face interactions with voters, especially in key battleground states which can either swing red or blue and decide who will win the race to the White House. While both candidates have broken records as the nominees with the least favorability ratings
ary Clinton has expanded her among registered voters and are lead over Donald Trump among more motivated by fear and disdain The Fil-Am likely voters. that the nominee of the other party According to the latest CNNmight win in November, they both Perspective ORC national poll, Clinton is have their loyal followers who will now five points ahead of Trump, vote for them no matter how they 47 to 42. may fumble and misspeak or be The Democratic nominee fact checked for any lies and mishas also gained more support representations just to get the elec- Gel SantoS-reloS among independents, 44 pertorates’ votes. What will be critical then is who will win over cent versus Trump’s 37 percent. The same poll also reveals that Clinton has been the independent and undecided voters who do able to shrink Trump’s lead among male voters. not subscribe to the ideologies of each party. After the first debate, polls revealed that Hill- His 22-point lead has now come down to 5 points.
In the latest Quinnipiac University survey in the battleground state of Florida, Clinton now leads by five points. Clinton also leads in North Carolina at 49 percent versus Trump’s 46, and in Pennsylvania, 48 percent to Trump’s 43 percent. But the margin is not that big. The next debate and more surprising headlines may sway the result one way or the other. Abangan! *** 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
Is the traffic problem a state of mind? PHILIPPINE Transportation Secretary Street Art Tugade was recently crucified in Talk mainstream and social media for reportedly attributing Manila’s monstrous traffic to “a state of GreG B. MacaBenta mind.” Subsequent clarification of what Tugade really meant appears to have been an exercise in futility. In communications, there can be a huge gap between what you say and how you are understood. One single statement can be understood in ten different ways by ten different people — in addition to mischievous media folks who purposely misunderstand. According to Cherie Mercado-Santos, transportation assistant secretary for communications, Tugade actually said, “The prevailing Filipino psyche of using traffic as an excuse must be changed. That kind of state of mind that automatically uses traffic as an excuse unnecessarily adds to the problem of traffic.” I actually agree with the good secretary, although I think that his observation left him unnecessarily vulnerable to being misunderstood. Metro Manilans are in no mood to listen to why they, too, must do their share in alleviating their traffic problem. I shuttle often between my home in the San Francisco Bay Area and Manila, and was here recently on a brief stopover from Bangkok. In that very quick visit, I had a 3:30 p.m. meeting and a 10:00 a.m. brunch, both on a weekday and both at Serendra in Taguig. For both engagements, I arrived a few minutes early and the folks I was supposed to meet with arrived on time. From my home in Paranaque, just off Sucat, it would normally take less than 30 minutes without traffic. But I allowed two hours of travel time to make sure that I would not be late. Don’t think I only do this in Manila. I do it too in California. From my home on the East Bay to my office in Daly City, it normally takes 30 minutes without traffic – that is, in the dead of night. But in the daytime, it takes two hours to the office and two-and-a-half going home. Now, if you live in the Los Angeles area, two hours or two-and-a-half are not enough allowance if you don’t want to be late for an appointment.
The saying is that the Los Angeles freeway system is one big parking lot. That’s how bad the traffic is. But the media and the folks in California have learned to adjust, instead of blaming the government. The government is, of course, scrambling to get ahead of urban sprawl and the resultant traffic problems, but many times, its best efforts are not enough. And talking about “state of mind,” Metro Manilans can learn a lesson from the folks in Honolulu. They have a term there, shaka, which loosely means, “hang loose” or “relax.” I learned what that really meant some years ago when I frantically rushed to a lunch appointment with an advertising client in the middle of the usually bad Honolulu traffic. By pleading with the taxi driver and literally dashing up the stairs of the office building (I couldn’t wait for the elevator), I made it to my client’s office “on the dot.” Guess what? My client arrived an hour late. “Hang loose, Greg,” he said breezily. “You are in Hawaii.” For sure, Tugade and his colleague in the Duterte cabinet, Secretary Mark Villar of the Department of Public Works, have to act creatively and double-time to lessen the torment that Manilans have dubbed carmageddon. Rationalizations like Mar Roxas’s classic, “It’s a sign of economic progress” and former DOTC Secretary Abaya’s “it’s not fatal,” are what Pinoys call, “consuelo de bobo.” Tugade’s “state of mind” comment falls in the same category. Suffering Metro Manilans are simply in no mood to listen to reason, no matter how logical. We are so used to blaming everyone else but ourselves. It also makes matters worse when we have a society where each one does his own thing, and let the devil take care of the rest. For instance, A. Santos Avenue, better known as Sucat Road, is the closest thing to traffic hell during drive time,
which is early in the morning and late in the afternoon. So what does Maynilad, the water company do? It appropriates half of an already narrow road, blocking off long stretches, in order to lay water pipes. This is not to say that Maynilad’s pipe-laying activities are unnecessary (would we rather be without water?). But couldn’t there have been some way of lessening the torment? When the San Francisco International Airport was expanded and when the Oakland portion of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge was built, the professionals who handled the construction made provisions for alternative thoroughfares so that people were hardly inconvenienced. Of course, it must have cost more money (for instance, a temporary span was built on the Oakland section of the Bay Bridge while the new span was being constructed) but the added financial cost was factored in relation to the opportunity cost or loss of productive manhours if traffic jams had resulted. On a trip to my home province of Leyte last year, I noticed that the bridge on the main road approaching Palo, coming from Tacloban, was being constructed. I also noticed that an alternative road was opened to keep traffic flowing smoothly. To go back to the Sucat Road traffic
hell, there are gated subdivisions in the area which could be opened up, at least temporarily to lessen the volume of traffic pouring into Sucat while the Maynilad construction is going on (for instance, from San Antonio Valley One, where the Paranaque City Hall is located, through the two adjoining subdivisions, which both require stickers for passage). And the morning and early evening traffic going through San Antonio Valley into Better Living and on to the Bicutan interchange could probably be lessened if trucks were prohibited from passing through. I understand that the “emergency powers” being requested by the Department of Transportation is meant to give it the legal muscle to require exclusive subdivisions to open up their sanctum sanctorums. But using the term “emergency powers” is ill-advised. This is another case of poor communications. The term evokes images of martial law and scares the wits of average folks. Couldn’t Tugade and his team just specify the villages they would like opened up temporarily and the conditions for opening them up (such as not allowing jeepneys, tricycles, buses and trucks to pass, as well as ensuring optimal security)? I mentioned earlier that I flew to Manila from Bangkok. I spent a few days there and noted the heavy traffic pour-
ing in and out of the city – this in spite of the impressive network of elevated freeways (similar to Metro Manila’s skyways) that stretch for miles. But I also noticed how orderly the vehicles were and, even more remarkable, was the absence of traffic policemen in the major thoroughfares. Compare that to the large number of MMDA traffic enforcers and policeman (in addition to pito boys or people with whistles helping vehicles back out of parking slots to get back on the main road) and you realize that we Pinoys are such terrible pasaways (undisciplined) that we need to have enforcers virtually cracking the whip on us. The trouble is that many of these socalled enforcers simply turn a blind eye to jeepneys picking up and dropping off passengers in the middle of the road and blocking traffic. In fact, it seems to me that these enforcers know only one rule to enforce – the color coding (or number coding) ordinance. Everything else is puede na. There is supposed to be major relief from our traffic woes once the SLEX and NLEX freeways are connected and the Department of Public works opens the network of overpasses leading to the airport terminals and the Bay City area where the new casinos are located. But that relief will only be temporary. I recall the days when EDSA had no light rail trains traversing it and there were no overpasses and underpasses. Traffic was terrible. Now that those structures and the train system are in place, the traffic is still terrible. One day, we will see flying cars and taxis crisscrossing Metro Manila. Will that bring relief from our traffic woes? Of course. But only temporarily. We will always find a way to make a good thing bad. It’s a state of mind. So hang loose. Or in Taglish, Relak para hindi ka mag-kolap. (gregmacabenta@hotmail.com)
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Dateline PhiliPPines
DISASTER REDUCTION. Sen. Cynthia A. Villar leads environmental advocates and numerous government agencies during the kick-off observance of the 2016 International Day for Disaster Reduction set on October 13 this year. The senator, chair of the Senate environment committee, and Julia Nebrija, Assistant General Manager for MMDA Operations, lead some 800 participants in the clean-up and establishment of a bamboo nursery at the Las Pinas-Paranaque Critical Habitat and Eco-Tourism Area (LPPCHEA). Senate photo
Same-sex marriage legalization eyed in PH by Dana
SioSon AJPress
PHILIPPINE House of Representatives Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez said it’s about time to show respect and uphold the dignity of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community in the Philippines, expressing that everybody deserves to be “happy.” In a press briefing on Monday, October 3, Alvarez said that he plans to file a bill that will support the legalization of same-sex union in the country. “I’m willing to sponsor samesex marriage. Look at our Constitution. There’s a provision there guaranteeing the happiness of Filipinos. Why should we deprive them that right?” the House speaker said. According to him, the proposal would amend the Family Code, which defines marriage as “a special contract of permanent union between a man and a woman entered into in accordance with law for the establishment of conjugal and family life.” The Family code also states that “no marriage shall be valid, unless these essential requisites are present: a) legal capacity of the contracting parties who must be a male and a female; and b)
consent freely given in the presence of the solemnizing officer.” Alvarez cleared that his proposal would only tap the civil union of members of the same sex. “Regarding the church marriage, we will not interfere in that. If they do not want it, it’s okay, no problem. While this one (same-sex marriage proposal), is as far as civil law is concerned,” he said. Being a predominantly Christian country, he noted that opposition from churches or religious lawmakers was only a natural part of the country’s democracy. “The Philippines is a democracy. There will always be opposition. There’s no issue that is not met by opposition. The beauty of democracy is we can argue, we can disagree, but at the end of the day, it’s still the majority that will prevail,” the House speaker added. At present, Alvarez said he is drafting the measure but has yet to garner the support from fellow legislators. “I am yet to seek support from the members. This is open to everybody who would like to be a sponsor, too. I just want to show that I respect and I stand with the LGBT in protecting their dignity,” he added. Several lawmakers from the
House of Representatives, however, have expressed their opposition to Alvarez’ proposal to legalize the union of same-sex couples in the country. “We are very much bothered by Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez’s statement that he would sponsor a bill that would seek the legalization of same-sex marriage. Marriage, as defined by law, is a union between a man and a woman. We are ready to defend the rights of anyone especially those in the LGBT community. But marriage should exclusively be, as intended by nature, for a man and a woman,” Buhay Representative Lito Atienza said. “I am quite disappointed that the Speaker would make such a commitment. We thought all along that his priority is federalism and not same-sex marriage,” he added. Meanwhile, Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco said the Philippine society is not yet ready for same-sex marriage and suggested that the government pass a law allowing couples to be “eligible for conjugal property” if they have lived together for a certain period. “You can love each other without getting married. They (LGBT) know the limits of their situation. The society is not ready for it,” he told Inquirer. n
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ered a speech, lamenting how the so-called “Old Boy’s Club” phenomenon remained “alive and kicking” in the country. “At its worst and ugliest, this Old Boy’s Club in the Philippines seeks to shame a woman senator
into silence by threatening the release of a video purported to capture her in a sexual act,” she said, referring to De Lima. “Whether you think the video is fake or not is of no moment. What you think of the drug-related allegations leveled against her
is of no moment. Isang usapin lang ang inilalatag ko sa inyong harap ngayon (I am laying down just one issue before you): will we allow the House of Representatives to show the sex video allegedly showing Senator Leila de Lima?” Hontiveros asked. n
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BUSINESS& COMMUNITY Journal
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, along with other ASEAN heads of states, welcomes the representatives of ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly at the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos on September 6. Photo by King Rodriguez/PPD
Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia told reporters on Tuesday, October MANILA — The Duterte ad- 4, that he together with Finance ministration’s economic team Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez will be in full force in the US this III and Budget Secretary Benjaweek to convince not only inves- min E. Diokno would meet with tors but also the international the top three global credit ratmedia that the “war on drugs” ing agencies on the sidelines of is ultimately aimed at ensuring this week’s annual World Bank peace and order as well as inves- and International Monetary Fund meetings in Washington, D.C. tor confidence in the country. by Ben
O. de Vera Inquirer.net
Pernia, also the director-general of the state planning agency, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), added that the economic team would grant interviews to giant US publications such as the New York Times and the Washington Post to “counter adverse media reports coming out” of the country. The country’s chief economist
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Filipinos abroad can now trade up to P50,000 in old bills by Ben
O. de Vera Inquirer.net
Philippine currency notes, New Generation Series Inquirer.net file photo
MANILA — The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has raised to up to P50,000 the maximum amount of old bills that Filipinos living and working abroad can trade ahead of the demonetization of the so-called New Design Series (NDS). In a statement on Monday, October 3, the BSP said the Monetary Board, its highest policy-making body, last month increased from just P10,000 previously the allowable amount of NDS banknotes to be exchanged by Filipinos overseas for the New Generation Currency (NGC). “The BSP reminds overseas Filipinos who wish to avail
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World Bank: PH must send right signal to investors by MayveLin
u. CarabaLLo ManilaTimes.net
THE Duterte administration must ensure a smooth economic transition and provide investors with the right signals, the Washington-based multilateral lender World Bank said in a report on Monday. Policymakers will also need to pursue its 10-point socioeconomic agenda to for the country to sustain high growth rates, it said. At its Philippine Economic Update report, the World Bank said the Philippines’ short-term growth prospects remain positive despite a number of mediumterm risks and policy challenges. It maintained its 6.4 percent growth outlook for the Philippine gross domestic product (GDP) this year, higher than the 5.9 percent growth in 2015 and within the 6 percent to 7 percent growth target of the government. As details of the government’s 10-point socioeconomic policies and implementation strategies are still under discussion, the World Bank said businesses are likely to stay cautious in terms of investment and expansion. “Meanwhile, lingering uncertainty regarding the new administration’s reform agenda will lead to caution among investors and consumers,” it said. Major structural reform initiatives are proposed in the areas
of tax policy and administration, expenditure tracking, land-tenure security and constitutional restrictions on foreign asset ownership. “If the authorities are able to foster a climate of strong policy credibility over the next six to 12 months, the country’s economic prospects could further improve. This represents an important upside risk to the growth forecast,” it said. Capacity limitations The multilateral lender expects Philippine economic growth to ease down to 6.2 percent in 2017 and 2018. The report said the current forecast assumes capacity limitations may slow the implementation of large-scale public infrastructure projects, and that it
could take longer to overcome these obstacles. The World Bank said while infrastructure spending is expected to accelerate in the next two years, it is challenging to reach the P860.7 billion allocated in the 2017 budget—which would represent a 13.8 percent increase over 2016—unless the government is able to rapidly expand its implementation capacity. Over the medium-term, the report noted the government’s ability to accelerate infrastructure investment will have a major impact on the economy’s growth trajectory. While consumption is likely to remain a pillar of future growth, a sustained increase in capital formation driven by public in-
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PAL faces competition by LoueLLa
D. DesiDerio Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — Philippine Airlines (PAL) is facing rising competition from the expansion of North Asian airlines as well as low-cost carriers (LCCs), think tank CAPA - Centre for Aviation said in a report. In its latest analysis, CAPA said the outlook for new Southeast Asia-US nonstop routes, including those being considered by PAL, is relatively bleak. PAL, which is currently the largest airline in the Southeast AsiaUS market through its 12 percent share of bookings in the year ending June 30, 2016, is looking to further grow its market share by adding new nonstop flights to the
eastern half of the US. There are Filipino communities in US metropolitan areas such as Chicago, Houston and Washington DC. CAPA said the flag carrier has also been evaluating more US West Coast destinations such as Las Vegas, San Diego and Seattle where there are sizeable Filipino populations. PAL currently has three nonstop routes in continental US such as Manila to Los Angeles, Manila to San Francisco, and Cebu to Los Angeles, as well as one one-stop route, the Manila to New York via Vancouver. It also operates flights to Guam and Hawaii. The flag carrier is looking to upgrade the New York flight to nonstop by 2018 when it takes delivery of its new A350-900 aircraft. PAL is also considering the launch of new destinations in the US using the new A350 aircraft. Ahead of the arrival of the A350-900, PAL is adding capacity to the Los Angeles and San Francisco routes over the next few months as it expands its 777-300ER fleet from six to eight aircraft. While the Southeast Asia-US market which has over three mil-
lion annual one-way passengers is growing, CAPA said the plan to launch new nonstop routes faces challenges as the market is already very well served and composed of price-sensitive leisure passengers who are generally not willing to pay more for a nonstop product. “There are already plenty of competitively priced one-stop options and one-stop competition will only get fiercer as North Asian airlines continue to expand in the US, and as LCCs enter the North Pacific market. Launching new nonstop flights to the continental US represents a strategic and likely unprofitable move for most Southeast Asian flag carriers,” CAPA said. North Asian carriers Korean Air, Cathay Pacific and EVA Air have been expanding recently in the US market. LCCs such as Malaysia’s AirAsia X as well as Cebu Pacific, which are considering expanding operations, also pose threats to new Southeast Asia-US routes. AirAsia X is planning to launch services to the US within the next year and its one-stop product via Japan is expected to add another highly competitive one-stop option for Southeast Asia-US passengers. n
“Instant Messaging/Chat Acronyms” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by tuchodi
5 acronyms you need to master in business
IN the hectic and ruthless world of business, time is of the essence. There are simply not enough minutes in the day to laboriously write things out like “as soon as possible” or “for your information.” If you want to get ahead in business and save time when writing emails, FYI, you should master these acronyms ASAP. ROI Return on investment. The overall aim of any business is to turn a profit. Business owners must calculate what kind of ROI they will receive to decide whether certain ventures are worthwhile. A straightforward way of understanding this is to imagine you are in a poker tournament. To work out your ROI in a poker tournament, you need to divide your overall profits by the amount you spent on buy-ins. In business, the buy-ins would be things like staff wages and wholesale purchases. MSRP Manufacturer’s suggested retail price. MSRP is the same as RRP (recommended retail price) and is the price that the manufacturer thinks the retailer should sell the product at. The idea behind this is to try to get a standardized price among all
the retailers that stock the same product, this can be seen with cars, as there is little variance in price from dealer to dealer. SEO Search engine optimization. If you want your company to come out higher up in Google search rankings when someone searches for your product, you need to involve some SEO strategy (see above) in your business model. There are companies that specialise in things like keyword analysis and producing content for link building schemes to push your name up the list. Most modern businesses are involved in SEO schemes to aid in the constant struggle to come out above their rivals. KPI Key performance indicators. This is a metric used to analyze and evaluate factors that are critical to a company’s success. Businesses set targets and then use this metric to calculate how effectively they are achieving their key objectives. There is specific computer software that companies can use to measure KPI, but initially you must acknowledge what type of KPI you need to assess. For example, a sales company will wish to examine how
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Filipinos abroad can… PAGE B1 t
of the NDS Banknote Exchange Facility to register their NDS banknote holdings at https:// orbs.bsp.gov.ph starting Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, 2016. Overseas Filipinos who will be able to register their NDS banknote holdings within this registration period have one year from date of registration to present their original passport and printed confirmation notice to any BSP office for the processing of the NDS exchange,” the BSP said. “Overseas Filipinos deployed to countries experiencing geopolitical crisis during the registration period who may not be able to register their NDS banknote holdings need only to present their original passport with exit
stamp by authorities from wartorn countries and/or authorities from other countries that served as exit points for repatriation to any BSP office for processing from Jan. 1 until Dec. 31, 2017, subject to the P50,000 limit for each overseas Filipino,” the BSP added. The BSP will undertake piece by piece verification of all NDS banknotes that will be submitted for exchange. Next year, all old banknotes will no longer be accepted in transactions nor traded with the BSP and banks, as they will have no monetary value. Only the NGC banknotes series being issued since 2010 will remain legal tender in the country starting 2017. n
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Debt Relief Atty. LAwrence yAng CLIENTS are young seniors at 60. Husband has a stable middle management job that pays $5K a month. Wife is not employed. They don’t own a house. They rent for $1200 a month and pay for a 2016 Lexus SUV 3.0. They enjoy travelling by SUV. This is the little luxury that they indulge in. On weekends, they drive to the border of Las Vegas and try their luck at the slot machines. This is their routine almost every weekend. On some weekends, they may drive to the beach at Santa Monica or Dana point and just relax, soaking in the sun and enjoying the sea breeze. This is their life in Southern California since they moved to Los Angeles thirty years ago. Kids are all adults, on their own and have their own lives and families. They have been empty nesters for the last fifteen years. The problem is that in the last twenty years, they accumulated $80K of credit card debt. Minimum payment to keep them current is $2,400 a month. This is half their gross income and double their rent. Believe it or not, they are still current on the $80K. None of the $80K credit card debt is on past due status. I
Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes YOU own a successful business, as a sole proprietor, prior to marriage. You later meet the love of your life and decide to marry her. Years into the marriage, you decide to incorporate the business. A common question when the couple later divorces becomes 1) did your separate property business become community property by virtue of incorporating it during the marriage? 2) Was your separate property business “transmuted” to community property by incorporating it during the marriage? No Community Property Presumption Family Code §760 defines “Community property” as “Except as otherwise provided by
Community Journal
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Seniors seek relief from $80K and $28K in credit card debt guess wife takes care of sending out the $2,400 to fifteen credit card companies every month. That alone is a full time job. No wonder she doesn’t work. Clients have been working for the credit card companies, paying them $2,400 a month, $28K a year. And how much have they paid in the last twenty years to keep their cards current? $576K, more than half a million dollars! And how much do they still owe today after paying $576K? They still owe the very same $80K! If they had just set aside the $576K in savings, instead of paying credit cards, think of what clients can do with half a million dollars today, now that they are 60? Well, for one, instead of renting, they can fully pay for a house. Or, they can invest that in a wealth portfolio that will give them at least $2,500 a month in additional income even at a 5 percent annual return. Or, they can pay for the 2016 Lexus in cash. Think about all the productive things they can do with half a million dollars in cash. They can travel and enjoy all the beautiful sights and cultures that the world has to offer. When you’re younger you don’t think about these things until it is too late. You think you will live forever and you will be young forever. But reality sets in when you turn 60. I don’t know why that’s the magic number. People are not faced with the
prospect of mortality in their forties or fifties. But the sixties are different. I believe it is because the next decade after the sixties is the seventies. While one can still be “young” at 60 and do practically anything that one can do in their thirties, except at a slower pace, at 70 the whole range of possibilities changes. At 70, the signs of physical aging are obvious, unless one has managed to delay these signs by exceptionally healthy eating, living and exercise. Unfortunately, despite all the advances in stem cell technology and cancer cures, mankind has not yet been able to defeat the number one cause of death of humans, old age. The oldest person today is 116. How many of us can even reach 90? Most of us will kick the bucket and either be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in paradise, or locked in a 10 x 10 feet cell guarded by monsters who will eat our flesh in hell in our eighties. If you are 60 now, that’s just another 20 to 25 years from now. The choice is life eternal with total joy and bliss with our Lord and Savior in his Father’s house in heaven, or an eternity of pain and suffering in hell with Lucifer, the choice, my friend, is yours. Clients can start a new life with a Chapter 7 petition to wipe out $80K of credit card debt and start saving $2,400 a month as they enter retirement. Just in the
Will incorporating a separate property business during marriage make it community property? statute, all property, real or personal, wherever situated, acquired by a married person during the marriage while domiciled in this state is community property. However under Marriage of Koester, the Court held that the community does not “acquire” a separate property business simply because the business is incorporated during the marriage. The mere incorporation of a business operated by spouse is not a change in its character, for purposes of division of community estate following divorce. In Koester, the Court stated that he incorporation simply effects a change in the legal form under which the business is conducted and property does not change its character merely because of a change in form or identity. Mar-
riage of Koester (1999) 73 CA4th 1032, 1035, 1038, 87 CR2d 76, 79, 81. The Court in Koester also stated that “In contrast with the way title is taken when a married couple own residential property, the incorporation of a sole proprietorship business is typically done for reasons extrinsic to the marital relationship. To say ... that an asset was ‘acquired’ by the community ... because some aspect of corporate formation took place during the marriage is to elevate semantics over substance” No Transmutation Incorporation of a sole proprietorship business during the marriage can trigger a family code § 2640 tracing right of reimbursement only when it is also
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nick of time. But if you go to hell, sorry, you can’t file a Chapter 7 petition to get out of hell and enter heaven. Make your choice now, while you still can. The devil is always on the prowl, ever deceiving you with false promises to bring you to hell. Next client is a widow at 65. Her husband died last month. Husband passed away unexpectedly. She still works and makes $2K a month as an assembler. Husband was making $3,400 a month as an LVN but fell ill and died in five months. He went into a coma on the fourth month and never recovered. He left credit cards of $28K. His creditors
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAgLAyA THE demands on immigrants are overwhelming. Whether you are a nurse, an engineer, a teacher, a salesperson or a worker in any profession in any capacity for that matter, as long as you are thrust into a totally new and strange environment, there will be times when you might be tempted to think and feel that you are less than equal to the task, particularly in the beginning years. One of the things that will take a back seat will be the time, energy and attention he will give to his own health. Trying to make sense of his new social climate, straddling two cultures with different values and ways of doing things, the load can be a bit too much at times. Caring for oneself can easily be put in the back burner particularly for those who are still young. The human body is remarkably resilient but try not to cross its limits. The immigrant, if he is to enjoy true success for a long time must put his physical well-being on top of his priorities. He must acquire the discipline and chutzpah to do most, if not all of the important things, that will help him live a full and rewarding immigrant life. Time is equated with the value of money. Americans have found that to get the most out of time, one can have several “pots sim-
are threatening to sue her and garnish her wages because the credit cards were community property debts. Surviving spouse is liable for community property debts. Client decides to start fresh at 65 with a Chapter 7 fresh start to wipe out husband’s $28K of credit card debt. She needs to do this because if she continues to pay minimum on $28K, that’s $900 a month. She now lives with her son so she doesn’t pay rent. But why pay $900 a month for credit cards when she can save that $900 every month for her own use and security? $900 a month of savings is $10,800 a year. In three years, client should
have saved up $32,400 in the bank. Who wants to have $28K of credit card debt at 65 sucking up $900 of social security or pension? Even a bimbo can figure this out. “Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the rock eternal.” — Isaiah 26:4 *** Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in bankruptcy, business, real estate and civil litigation and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 1000 S. Fremont Ave, Mailstop 58, Building A-1 Suite 1125, Alhambra, CA 91803. (Advertising Supplement)
Balance is the key Get your priorities straight. No one ever said on his deathbed, “Gee, if only I’d spent more time at the office.”
— H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
mering all at the same time.” Multitasking is expected both at work and at home to maximize results and to cover as much ground as possible in the shortest possible time to be able to save enough time to allow us to do other things—purportedly to get more out of life. Thus, you do the laundry while you pay the bills while something simmers in the stove or is broiling in the oven. And even with modern conveniences, the most common excuse we use in not being able to take care of our health is that we simply do not have the time, the energy, or the motivation. Which gives rise to the question: What happened to all that time we saved by multitasking? If you are turning night into day by taking on part time jobs apart from your full time occupation to make more money, it stands to reason that you will neither have the time nor the energy to take care of your health. Those who attempt to do the extraordinary by taking on double jobs in 16 hour stretches in the beginning years, day in and day out, will be able to jumpstart and achieve their financial goals faster than most. You may be able to acquire real estate properties
Calendar of Events across
easier than the average American. And while it is not apparent in the beginning, the trade-off for having more money in exchange for a bigger chunk of our time can come at a very steep price. More money will come at the expense of sleep, well-being and in many cases, the welfare of his own family. The question that must be answered by those who choose a harried lifestyle is this: Is it all worth it? At one point, the younger, more energetic, ambitious immigrant will equate work with his sense of self worth. The truth — lest we forget — is this. Work, while an important part of life, is not the total essence of life itself. The key, as the fortunate few have discovered early enough, is to find work that gives inner joy in a state of grace where doing and being have become inseparable. When that happens, work ceases to be work but becomes a joyful part of life itself, along with all the elements that make life worth living. As in all things essential, BALANCE IS THE KEY. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com
America
ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS O C TO B E R 7- 9
Los Angeles Philippine International Film Festival in Carson, California Los Angeles Philippine International Film Festival (LAPIFF) is hosting its first three-day film festival from Friday, October 7 to Sunday, October 9 at the SouthBay Pavilion Mall’s new Cinemark Theaters. As part of the City of Carson’s Filipino American History Month celebration, the most-anticipated film festival in Los Angeles County is making history with the most ever screenings of global Filipino films—all in one location. Audiences can expect to watch and enjoy the many films across different movie genres (action, comedy, horror, documentary, animation, drama, sci-fi and more) made by Filipino filmmakers and story- tellers from all around the globe. LAPIFF is an organization devoted to the advancement, development and showcase of Filipino Filmmakers/Artists around the world through film, providing the global community of entertainment professionals and film goers with consist- ent annual screening events and workshops. For more information, please visit http://www. lapiff.org/.
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Ryan Cayabyab and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers in New Jersey Ryan Cayabyab and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers perform ‘100 years of song’ at St. Pe- ter’s University, St Aedan’s Church at 7 p.m. Maestro Ryan, the Philippines’ top composer (“Kay Ganda Ng Ating Musika,” Tuwing Umuulan” and more) presents his handpicked vocal group singing his arrangements and beloved hits. Admission is free, donations for the benefit of the church choir are appreciated. St. Aedan’s is at 800 Bergen Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07306.
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25th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) The Association for the Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) is proud to announce the date & venue for the anticipated Silver Anniversary edition of its annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture. FPAC 25, the 25th Annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC), will take place Saturday, October 8 at the beautiful Echo Park Lake. Admission is FREE. The popular festival, the City of Los Angeles’ Filipino American Event, is the longest-running Filipino cultural celebration in Southern Califor- nia. Audiences can expect to enjoy traditional and contemporary Filipino food, music, dance, crafts and culture. This year’s theme, “Samu’t Sari: Showcasing the Diverse Creative Tapestry of the FilAm Community,” lends its meaning to the Tagalog phrase which loosely translates to “diversity.” While certainly a hot topic in today’s society, FilAm Arts focuses on the vast contributions of Filipino American artists to the creative tapestry of the City. For more information, please visit www.filamarts.org or call 2133803722. For sponsorship and vendor opportunities, please email info@filamarts.org.
An Evening with Martin Nievera at the Ford Theatres Filipino-American History Month kicks off with the much anticipated concert debut of Martin Nievera at Hollywood’s newly renovated Ford Theatres. Presented by PAE Live!, “An Evening with Martin Nievera” brings the Philippine entertainer center stage on Satur- day, October 8th, 2016 at 7:30pm as he performs his greatest hits, traditional Filipino love songs and an eclectic, upbeat mix of Broadway and standard pop tunes. Proceeds from the concert will benefit the Apl.de.ap Foundation, a project of the Asian Pacific Community Fund established by Apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas. “An Evening with Martin Nievera” is proudly sponsored by Leelin Bakeries, Island Pacific Supermarkets and Kalayaan Incorpo- rated of Southern California with LA18 and The Asian Journal as official television and print media sponsors. Ticket prices for “An Evening with Martin Nievera,” start at $48; Reserved Seating.Tickets are available at FordTheatres.org or via phone at (323) 461-3673.
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 OCTOBER 5-7, 2016 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL
Community Journal
You owe taxes? Cannot pay now?
What’s New Arlene Al-os, CPA, MBA (Part 2)
WE talked about other payment plans in our other newsletter. Now let us explore Offer-in-Compromise “OIC” under Code section 7122. OIC is a tax liability settlement agreement of less than the full amount of debt, between taxpayer and IRS. Here are some tips on how to prepare for OIC application. • OIC is right for you IF: 1) it is doubtful that IRS can collect the full amount of tax liability, 2) there is lawful dispute to the amount owed, and 3) full amount collection of tax obligation would result in financial hardship. • Use the pre-qualifier tool in the IRS website to help determine if OIC is suitable for you. • To be eligible you must: filed all required tax returns, have received a bill for tax debt, and paid all estimated tax payments required for current year. And for business owner with
EMPLOYMENT
employees, paid federal tax deposits required for the current quarter. • You are not eligible for OIC if you are currently in bankruptcy proceeding. Contact the centralized insolvency operation at 1-800-973-0424 if you are not sure of your bankruptcy status. Have your bankruptcy case number and taxpayer identification number available prior to your call. • IRS will not accept your OIC if you can pay your tax liability in full or through an installment agreement or other payment options. Refer to our previous newsletter. • Your offer must show your ability to pay • If you want to apply OIC for your personal and business, submit separate Form 656 one for personal and one for your business. • Use the right version of the Forms. • Complete Form 656 OIC based on doubt as to liability with: 1) collection information
statement Form 433-A for salary earners and self-employed, and/ or 2) Form 433-B for business, and 3) pertinent supporting financial documents. • Your offer should be equivalent to the amount calculated on Form 433-A or Form 433-B. • Mail your application Form 656 to the correct IRS processing office of your state. California residents mail to: Brookhaven Internal Revenue Service, COIC Unit, PO Box 9007, Stop 681-D, Holtsville, NY 11742-9007. • Complete Form 656-L OIC if you have lawful doubt that you owe part or all of the tax liability with statement in writing explaining why the tax liability is not correct. Failure to provide a statement in writing could cause the offer to be returned and will NOT be considered. • Mail your application Form 656-L to: Brookhaven Internal Revenue Service, COIC Unit, PO Box 9008, Stop 681-D, Holtsville, NY 11742-9008. • Send in your application
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http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797
Will incorporating a separate property…
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accompanied by an unambiguous express written transmutation of the business to community property as required by Family Code § 852. Marriage of Koester, supra, 73 CA4th at 1036–1037, 87 CR2d at 79–80 & fn. 5. Under Family Code §852, a transmutation of real or personal property is not valid unless made in writing by an express declaration that is made, joined in, consented to, or accepted by the spouse whose interest in the property is adversely affected. In Koester, the act of changing the legal form under which a business is conducted does not meet the requirements of family code § 852 for a valid transmutation. Marriage of Koester (1999) 73 CA4th 1032, 1037, 87 CR2d 76, through certified mail with return receipt for your proof of records. • DO NOT submit offers Form 656-L and Form 656 at the same time. Application for Form 656 will be returned with No further consideration. • After an offer is submitted, you must continue to file timely, pay current tax obligations, and
80 & fn. 5. Incorporation of a sole proprietorship business is typically done for reasons extrinsic to the marital relationship. Although the mere act of incorporating a separate business during the marriage does not change the character of the business to community property, the community may still acquire an apportionment interest if the value of the business substantially appreciated during the marriage due to the labor and hard work of the managing spouse during the marriage. The apportionment calculation is done using the formula in the Pereira or Van Camp case where the contributions of effort and return on capital are separated from the value of the business. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified
pay estimated taxes. • After an OIC is accepted, you must continue to file timely, pay current tax obligations, and pay estimated taxes. • You cannot dispute the tax liability established by a final court decision. In accordance with IRS Circular 230, this communication is not to be considered a “covered
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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)
opinion” or other written tax advice and should not be relied upon for IRS audit, tax dispute, or any other purpose. *** Sy Al-os Accountancy Corporation provides accounting and tax services to individuals, corporations, LLCs and business entities. The Firm has a niche in defending taxpayers audited by the IRS and other governmental agencies. (Advertising Supplement)
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People and Events
LA Mayor Eric Garcetti invites Angelenos to reimagine public spaces with 2016 Great Streets Challenge
LOS ANGELES — Everyone has ideas for how to improve their local community, and Angelenos are being invited to turn vision into action. Mayor Eric Garcetti recently launched a $2 million grant program that gives LA residents a unique opportunity to reimagine public spaces in their own neighborhoods. The Great Streets Challenge, now in its second year, empowers Angelenos to transform streets and urban corridors across Los Angeles into vibrant, walkable spaces that reflect the unique character of their communities. “Neighborhood character is the environment we create on our streets — the places where families and neighbors spend time together, where people take their dogs out for a walk or just do their shopping,” said Mayor Garcetti. “These public spaces should celebrate the people and culture that define them. That’s what the Great Streets Challenge is about.” Angelenos can now apply for Great Streets Challenge funding to complete an improvement project along any street or corridor in L.A.. The City will award up to $13,000 to each winning applicant for community outreach, project implementation, and six to 12 months of technical assistance. Mayor Garcetti has
Mayor Eric Garcetti
set aside $2 million in total funding for the program this year, a $1.8 million increase over 2015. “The Great Streets Challenge funds great grass-roots projects, helping to build the foundation for successful partnerships in communities,” said Councilmember Mike Bonin, who chairs the City Council’s Transportation Committee. “When we work together on a shared vision for our streets, we have a tremendous opportunity to create the types of positive changes that have lasting impacts on our neighborhoods.” Last year’s Great Streets Challenge funded eight community projects with a total of $180,000 in City funds. Ninety-four individuals and organizations par-
World Bank: PH must…
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frastructure investment would accelerate growth on the supply side, it noted. The World Bank highlighted that in 2017, 40 percent of the planned infrastructure budget will be allocated to road networks, railways, seaports and airports. “While not all of these infrastructure investments are likely to be executed in the proposed timeframe, rising public investment levels could have both a direct impact on growth and important multiplier effects on the productivity of key sectors, including industry, real estate and construction, and tourism,” it said. Gross capital formation is expected to be the single largest contributor to growth in 2016 to 2018, it said. “However, if the government is able to fully implement all planned infrastructure projects, rates of gross capital formation could be even higher than anticipated, boosting overall growth in 2017 and 2018,” it said. Poverty reduction The report said economy-wide growth, combined with the gov-
ernment’s avowed commitment to an inclusive development agenda, is expected to generate further gains in poverty reduction in the near-term. Lowering the poverty rate could be accelerated through greater investment in human capital formation, with an emphasis on health, education and social protection services targeting the poor and vulnerable. “Poor households are highly concentrated in the agricultural sector, where productivity increases could boost incomes and make growth more inclusive. Accomplishing this would require a comprehensive rural development strategy, and formulating such a strategy is among the new administration’s top policy priorities,” it said. The creation of more highproductivity jobs in other sectors would expand the distribution of returns from growth, it added. “These challenges notwithstanding, the Philippine economy continues to benefit from strong macroeconomic fundamentals and is projected to remain among East Asia’s top growth performers over the short- to mediumterm,” it said. n
Duterte team to visit US…
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said that in his meetings with representatives of debt watcher Moody’s Investors Service and financial giant Goldman Sachs who were in Manila last week, “they were quite surprised or amazed that the situation here is less problematic than portrayed by media.” Pernia said they would assure investors that “the macroeconomy continues to be robust, and the government is focused on reducing inequality and poverty.” Pernia will reiterate the Duterte administration’s 10-point socioeconomic agenda in the drive to reduce the country’s poverty incidence to 17 percent by 2022 from 26 percent at present. He said the the numbered “zero” in the agenda was peace and order. “The war on drugs is aimed at peace and order,” the NEDA chief said, referring to the administration’s strong anti-illegal drugs stance, said to be the cause of the rising number of extrajudicial killings in recent months. For Pernia, fostering peace and order “can attract investors,” in addition to improving infrastructure and the investment climate, as well as reducing red tape and corruption. As far as business sentiment is concerned, local businessmen are still “cheering the President on the war on drugs,” according
NEDA Director General Ernesto Pernia Inquirer.net photo
to Pernia. “Business groups like the Makati Business Club and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry are not or less concerned” about the issue on extrajudicial killings, Pernia said. While a number of foreign chambers earlier expressed concerns about the killings, Pernia claimed that “embassies are not concerned, because they keep on coming to talk about possible investments.” The NEDA chief said French embassy officials recently expressed interest to invest in transportation projects, specifically airports and railways, alongside recent visits of officials from Belgium and South Korea. n
5 acronyms you need… PAGE B2 t
revenue is growing, what the average purchase value is, and how individual products are performing. EBITDA Earning before interests, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. This refers to how a company evaluates its performance before these extenuating factors are counted. Uncontrollable things like tax and depreciation are out of the company’s hands, and it is sometimes preferable to analyze how the company is doing before other things are con-
sidered. EBITDA is a good way to compare your business’s success alongside other rival companies in your sector. It shows what a company actually receives in revenue and what they can spend on expenses. As we are reaching the EOD (end of discussion) here, for further reference there are plenty of sites that can offer yet more important acronyms to remember in business. Memorize them, master them, and you will be speaking like a modern, tech-era business owner in no time. (Inquirer.net)
ticipated in the 2015 application process. The eight funded projects represented more than 40 community groups — including Neighborhood Councils, business improvement districts, and community-based organizations. “The Great Streets Challenge will empower our neighborhoods to shape the future of Los Angeles,” said Councilmember David Ryu. “We want to engage the expertise and institutional knowledge of our residents to transform our streets into public spaces.” The 2016 Great Streets Challenge builds on a series of successful neighborhood enhancement programs launched in recent months by Mayor Garcetti’s Great Streets Initiative. In August, Mayor Garcetti announced Great Streets Great Business — a program that offers businesses located along Great Streets corridors access to a $4 million loan fund, and one-on-one guidance to help them meet difficult challenges. Applications for the Great Streets Challenge are available through Nov. 20 at LAGreatStreets.org/2016challenge. Winning applicants will be selected based on the strength of their community outreach strategy, and the project’s alignment with the City’s health, mobility, and economic development goals. n
Consul General with the WW II Filipino American Veterans
PH Consul General meets with Fil-Am WWII veterans
LOS ANGELES — Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz was welcomed by the Filipino-American World War II Veterans at the Bob Hope Patriotic Hall in downtown Los Angeles, Sept. 26. The meeting was organized by Filipino Veterans Foundation Executive Director Dr. Jenny Batongmalaque. Special guests during the meeting were Department of Veteran Affairs District Manager Alberto Alpasan and Veterans Affairs Mental Health Center Doctor Carole Goguen. The Filipino Veterans Foundation (FVF) is a non-profit organization, founded under the auspices of the ERB Foundation, a registered 501-(c)(3) non-profit organization in Los Angeles, California, USA. The mission of the Filipino Veterans Foundation is to improve the quality of life of the disadvantaged mature individual, promote health and
Photo shows (2nd from L-R) Madame Catherine Cruz, Consul General Cruz and Filipino Veterans Foundation Executive Director Dr. Jenny Batongmalaque.
wellness in his community, and to honor and preserve his legacy and contributions. Since November 1, 2002, the Filipino Veterans Foundation began providing services at the Los Angeles County Bob Hope Patriotic Hall. In his remarks, Consul General Cruz assured the veterans of the Consulate’s continued support for Filipino-American WW II veterans. One of the first improvements implemented at the
Consulate is having a dedicated window for WW II veterans, senior citizens and persons with disability availing consular services. The goal is to decrease their queuing and waiting time. Consul General Cruz also assured the veterans that their concerns about their loans and pensions will also be relayed to the appropriate government agencies in the Philippines for their response and attention. n
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cover story The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 5, 2016
A guide to this year’s Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) by AJPress
T
O continue the Filipino American History Month celebrations in Los Angeles, the 25th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) will be held on Saturday, October 8 — one of the most anticipated events of the year for the Fil-Am community. FPAC, the annual production of FilAm ARTS, is the largest presenter of Philippine arts and culture in Southern California presenting over 1,200 artists in nine disciplines
and attracting over 25,000 audience members from all over the country. It was first conceptualized in 1990 as part of the City of Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department’s Festivals Program, an arts program designed to address the multicultural consistency of the city. From its early beginnings at Los Angeles City College, Cabrillo Beach and Pt. Fermin Park in San Pedro, FPAC will be held at Echo Park Lake this year to bring the celebration closer
to the heart of the Fil-Am community in Los Angeles. This year’s theme, “Samu’t Sari: Showcasing the Diverse Creative Tapestry of the FilAm Community,” lends its meaning to the Tagalog phrase samu’t sari, which loosely translates to “diversity.” While certainly a hot topic in today’s society, FilAm Arts focuses on the vast contributions of Filipino American artists to the creative tapestry of the City. “Every year, for the past 24 years, FPAC has provided an
opportunity for our community to creatively honor and celebrate our culture with a view toward a grateful understanding of our Filipino American history,” said Winston Emano, FilAm Arts board member. “This is the spirit that keeps FPAC going. But, beyond that, it’s a big Filipino party for us and for all our Southern California neighbors.” FilAm Arts will also be recognizing various individuals and organizations who have helped Continued on Page 3
Celebrating Filipino American History Month: highlighting Pinoys’ roles in the US By eric
Anthony LicAs AJPress
OCTOBER is Filipino American History Month (FAHM), and 2016 marks the 70th year since the Philippines gained independence from the United States and other landmark events that shaped the way Filipinos lived in America for generations. Although Filipinos have had a documented presence in America since October of 1587 via Luzones Indios (now Morro Bay, California), it is only in recent decades that Filipino-American contributions have been highlighted from the margins of society. The Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) began celebrating FAHM in 1982, but the commemorative event was only officially recognized by the federal government in November of 2009. U.S. Census data from 2010 reports that Filipinos are the fastest-growing ethnic group in the country. They are the largest Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) ethnicity in California, and the second largest nationwide. This increasingly influential segment of America has worked to benefit the U.S. with labor, culture, and the lives of those who fought for the security of their adoptive home. 1946 as a turning point Before 1946, federal laws preventing access to citizenship for non-whites and state laws denying Filipinos from owning land Continued on Page 3
Illustration by Kendrick Tan
FilAmARTS presents:
C E L E B R AT I N G 2 5 Y E A R S : T H E A N N UA L F E S T I VA L O F P H I L I P P I N E A RT S & C U LT U R E
SA M U ’ T SA R I : S H O W C A S I N G T H E D I V E R S E C R E AT I V E TA P E S T RY O F T H E F I L҃A M CO M M U N I T Y F E AT U R I N G
APL.DE.AP
FROM THE BLACK EYED PEAS
K AT I P U N A N P O E T R Y S L A M • T I N I K L I N G B AT T L E • S TA H Y L (JA B B AW O C K E E Z / M Y D I G I TA L K I D S ) D J S E T J O N J O N B R I O N E S • O D E S S A K A N E • M A L AYA F I L A M DA N C E A R T S K AYA M A N A N N G L A H I • PA K A R AG U I A N K U L I N TA N G E N S E M B L E • D I G I TA L M A R T Y R S • M A M A B A R E S A D A P O N S I S T E R S • R A N E L L A F E R R E R • R O C K S T E A DY R O N D A L L A • J H I N G S I L L O N A M AT T A L M O D I E L • C H R I S A L A N I S • Z I G Z A G T H E O R Y B A N D • A S I A A R A G O N A N D V E RY S P E C I A L S U R P R I S E G U E S T S
S AT U R DAY O C TO B E R 8 , 2 016 • E C HO PA R K L A K E
10AM - 8PM • ECHO PARK LAKE, 715 NORTH ECHO PARK BLVD, LOS ANGELES, CA
STAY UPDATED • #FPAC25 • #FILAMARTS • @FPAC25 • @FILAMARTSLA • FILAMARTS.ORG • 213.380.3722
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A guide to this year’s Festival... From Page 2 the Fil-Am community. Most notably, the cast of the CW show, “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,” will receive the “Excellence in Arts” award. Throughout the day, catch performances from talented Filipino and Fil-Am artists,
including headliners Apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas and DJ and dancer STAHYL of the JABBAWOCKEEZ and My Digital Kids. Other performers include Bambu, Jon-Jon Briones, Odessa Kane, Malaya FilAm Dance Arts, Kayamanan ng
Lahi, Pakaraguian Kulintang Ensemble, Digital Martyrs, Mama Bares, the Adapon Sisters, Ranella Ferrer, Rocksetady Rondalla, Jhing Sillona, Matt Almodiel, Chris Alanis, Zigzag Theory Band, and more. you can make the most of your time there.
In preparation for Saturday, the Asian Journal presents a handy guide to this year’s FPAC, from performers to artists to vendors, so you can make the most of your time there.
Pan Pavilion Co-curated by Nico Nava and Nicole Arca THE Pilipino Artist Network (PAN) Pavilion at FPAC serves as a space for Fil-Am artists and their creative allies to showcase their artistry -- visual arts, literary arts, cinematic arts, and more. This year, in celebrating the 25th anniversary of FPAC, the theme of the PAN Pavilion is “Noong Araw (Back in the
Day)” -- a means to reflect upon memories that our community members, whether collectively or individually, hold dear. This year’s Pavilion features several films, a gallery space, and artist vendors, as well as a “Sala Installation.” Artists include: Eliseo Art Silva, Manila Ryce, Aleks of
Dream Jungle Tattoo, Nicole Gervacio, Kelsey Boncato, Christine Hipolito, Gunita Designs, Diane Valencia, Malaya Project, Francis Gum and Eza Cheeza. Films being shown are “Ex Utero” by Michelle Dizon, “Dear Dad” by Kelsey Boncato, and“Kapatid” by Christine Hipolito.
Celebrating Filipino American History Month... From Page 2
left them adrift and unheard in the U.S., according to FANHS historians. “Filipina/o immigrants lived in limbo – neither citizen or national, barred from citizenship and the vote, yet deeply committed to living in the United States,” writes Associate Professor of History at San Francisco State University, Dr. Dawn B. Mabalon in an article published by the FANHS titled “The significance of 1946 for Filipina/o Americans” July of that year saw the Philippines formally break away from the U.S., as well as the passage of the Luce-Celler Bill. That legislation granted Filipino and
Indian immigrants the opportunity to become naturalized American citizens. 1946 was also the year of the Great Sugar Strike in Hawaii. Over 6,000 workers who were recruited from the Philippines to undercut unionized labor ahead of an imminent strike joined picket lines instead. The demonstrators’ combined efforts led to sweeping changes that alleviated grueling working conditions and granted union recognition, higher wages and other concessions to over 100,000 Filipino sakadas or sugar workers living in Hawaii. FAHM is also an opportunity to remember the work of Larry Itliong, a critical but often forgot-
ten figure of the Delano Grape Strike that took place in Central California during the late 60s. He helped organize unions in both Alaska and California. In 1965, he led the AFL-CIO’s Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee before that union merged with Cesar Chavez’s National Farm Workers Association to become the United Farm Workers. In 2015, California Governor Jerry Brown signed a bill designating the labor leader’s birthday, October 25, a state holiday. While new opportunities were opening up to many immigrants from the Philippines in 1946, Congress also acted to deny many privileges that Filipino veterans would normally have earned after they had been recruited by the U.S. military during World War II. That year, the Rescission Act labeled the contributions of over 260,000 Filipino soldiers fighting in the Pacific theater as “inactive service,” according the FANHS. That designation cut them off from G.I. Bill benefits that helped returning servicemen reintegrate and find prosperity in post-war life. “[Filipino immigrant soldiers] served honorably and courageously,” said retired Army Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba in a statement released in July. “We as a nation owe them a debt of gratitude for safeguarding our freedom and preserving our future.” Taguba is currently a leading voice in the continuing 30-year struggle to achieve recognition for the service of Filipino WWII veterans. To learn more about how Filipinos have woven themselves into the patchwork fabric of U.S. history, visit the FANHS’s website, www.fanhs-national.org.
PARKING INFO There are different parking options in the Echo Park area: 1) Festival parking at Logan Elementary School (1711 Montana St.), 1 block north of Sunset Blvd. – 5 min walking distance 2) Metered city lots on Logan St. and Lemoyne St. – 2-3 min walking distance 3) Street parking along Glendale Blvd, Park Ave, and Echo Park Ave. – 3-5 min walking distance
4) Silverlake Medical Center (1711 W. Temple St.) – 0.6 mile/ 12 min walking distance *** Don’t want to drive or hassle with parking on Saturday? Let our friends at Uber take you to the festival instead! New users can enter the code FPAC25 into the ‘Promotions’ field of your Uber app and enjoy (1) free ride up to $15! We’re excited to partner with our friends at Uber to better ensure that our guests have
a safe, reliable ride to and from Saturday’s event. If you are taking an Uber to the festival Saturday, make sure you request a trip from the designated Uber Pick up Drop off are - on the corner of Park Ave and Lemoyne Street. New to Uber? Get started here at uber.com/app *** Valid only for new Uber users. Trip must be in Los Angeles and offer expires on 12/31/16.
McDonalDs Presents the 9th annual tinikling Battle
Co-Curated by Ariana Garcia and Kristine Rae de los Santos THE Tinikling Battle is a fierce competition among some of the best Tinikling dancers within the SoCal area. The teams showcase their own unique styles, as well as incorporate the traditional Filipino styles into their choreography, showing how this dance form has evolved throughout generations. Participating teams are Cal State Long Beach, Cal Stage Fullerton, UC Santa Barbara and UC Los Angeles. Plus enjoy a breakdance showcase and workshop from Cypher City!
DANCE FLOOR SCHEDULE 11:30: Tinikling Battle: CSULB, CSUF 12:00 FCS: Tinikling Workshop 1:15: Tinikling Battle: UCSB, UCLA 2:00 Cypher City Showcase 3:00 Cypher City: Breakin’ Workshop 4:00: Top two teams announced 5:00 Tinikling Final Battle on Main Stage
eskwela kultura Youth Pavilion Curated by Filipino Cultural School FROM 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. the Filipino Cultural School will have a program of new activities every hour, including Sipa makimg, Tinikling basics and parol making. FCS is a summer program geared to the preservation and promotion of the Philippine heritage and culture. FCS has and continues to be open to all. Filipino and non-Filipino who are interested in the Philippine culture are invited to attend. In 2015, FCS celebrated its 50th year anniversary and looks forward to serving the Filipino American Community and its youth.
sunDaY JuMP Presents the 3rD annual katiPunan PoetrY slaM Co-Curated by Eddy M. Gana Jr. and Stephanie Sajor THIS is not your average poetry reading. This is where poets slam to do battle! Continuing the work of those who have paved the way before us, from Jose Rizal to Jessica Hagedorn, the slam provides a platform for us to showcase the variety of voices and points of view amongst Filipino Americans today. Come witness this modern day Balagtasan and see who will come out on top! Poets include: Edgar Tumbokon, Jade Phoenix, Joe Limer, Nate Umagat, Rozlind Silva, Sherwin Ginez, Angeline Rivero Dy and Damnyo Lee
Jade Phoenix
Joe Limer
Rozlind Silva
Nate Umagat
Sherwin Ginez
Angeline Rivero Dy and Damnyo Lee
seniors’ village Curated by Tony and Angelita Ringor, and Eileen McCremens Sponsored by Area Lab ExPLORE fresh Filipino vegetables from local farms, get gardening tips from award-winning home gardeners, and dis-
cover delicious Filipino recipes contributed by RG Enriquez of AstigVegan.com. Stylish tote bags, vegetables, recipes, and
vegan bibingka mix available with your donation. 100% of proceeds go to FilAm ARTS. Come in! Tuloy po kayo!
“BalangaY ng langit” Curated by Kollective Binhi THE Balangay ng Langit is a continuous being – moving, growing, evolving, transforming and healing. The Balangay activates the kapwa spirit, healing, and strengthening our community. It is a way of connecting to our one mother earth, our shared ancestors, and our kapwa community. Visit the BnL and participate in indigenous rituals and participatory art.
culinarY Pavilion Curated by GrubLife THE GrubLife Culinary Pavilion celebrates Philippine cuisine as a cultural and artistic form. Food is immersed in the heart of every Filipino as a sacred blessing to be respected yet fully enjoyed and appreciated. We invite you to experience the wonders of traditional and contemporary cuisine beyond the more common pancit and lumpia. Watch and interact with prominent FilAm chefs, sample authentic dishes and gourmet creations, and participate in fun contests throughout the day. *** FPAC is a free event; no admission is needed for entry. FPAC is sponsored in part by the: National Endowment for the Arts, California Arts Council, California Council for Humanities, LA County Arts Commission, City of LA Department of Cultural Affairs, LA City Council District 13 CM Mitch O’Farrell, Toyota, McDonald’s, Western Union, AARP, LA-18, The Filipino Channel / ABS-CBN, Asian Journal (and others). For more information, please visit www.filamarts. org or call213-380-3722.
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 5, 2016
Zenaida T. Gutierrez: Philippine Opera Company’s Director for Production Design AFtEr finishing Bachelor of science in Home Economics degree from the Philippine Women’s university, Zenaida t. Gutierrez took fine arts courses in painting and textile design at the university of santo tomas. Zeny belongs to the first batch of graduates of slim’s Fashion and Arts school, Manila. she took post-graduate courses in interior Design and
Costume Design in san Diego state university, usA. Her stage credits for costume design include: “Midsummer night’s Dream” in California, “Balikatan ‘82” at the Meralco theatre, “Mayo 1, Bisperas ng liwanag”, “Master Class”, “Hansel and Gretel”, “ sid the serpent Who Wanted to sing”, “Operanow” at the CCP Main theatre, “la Chan-
son de Carmen”, and repertory Philippines’ production of “Julius Caesar”, “Once On this island” and “Once upon a Mattress”. Her costumes for Philippine Opera Company’s “Harana... a Cultural Journey” and “Ang Bagong Harana” garnered rave reviews for its authenticity and workmanship. (Advertising Supplement)
Model Catriona Gray named Miss World Philippines 2016 AustrAliAn-Filipino model Catriona Elisa Gray bested 24 Filipioa beauties and was crowned as Miss World Philippines 2016 on sunday evening. the twenty-two year-old Catriona is also a singer and a blogger from Albay, Bicol at the competition. Aside from bagging the Miss World title, Catriona also swept several special awards on coronation night held at the Manila Hotel. she was named
Best in Evening Gown, Best in swimsuit, Best in Fashion runway and Best in talent. several sponsors also chose Catriona to be their brand ambassador as she was named Miss Figlia, Miss FiG-image Gateway, Miss Folded & Hung, Miss Hannah, Miss Manila Hotel and Miss Organique. Catriona will represent the Philippines at the Miss World competition in Washington DC on December 18. (Rosette Adel/Philstar.com)
Miss World Philippines 2016 Catriona Elisa Gray
Jake Ejercito to Andi Eigenmann’s daughter: You will always be my princess by Ricky Lo Philstar.com
Balintawak
Cordillera Woman
Barong Tagalog
Manton de Manila
Cordillera Igorot
Maria Clara
Camisa de Chino
Muslim Mindanao
Illustrado
AlMOst two weeks after Max Eigenmann confirmed on the radio program “Good times with Mo (twister)” that Jake Ejercito is, indeed, the father of Ellie, daughter of Max’s half-sister Andi Eigenmann, as proven by a “paternity test,” Daddy Jake has remained mum in singapore where he’s pursuing a Master’s Degree in Marketing. in effect, perhaps unwittingly, Max “exonerated” Albie Casiño who was a “suspect” but whose family, particularly Albie’s mom rina, insisted on a DnA test to settle the matter altogether. But in a message he posted on his instagram, although he didn’t categorically admit it, Jake actually said it all. Here’s what he wrote obviously addressed to Ellie (who is turning four years old next month), as is: there will have been a lot of things you’ve heard and read by now and i’m glad you’ve somehow stumbled upon this. Cause this is one of the very few truths that matter. it may have taken me years to find out by myself, but i’ve been here for you even before your first precious breath — nothing and no one has or will ever change that. You’ve only brought good things to my life and i promise to do the same to you a hundredfold. Know that everything has been and will always be for you. And that i will hold you hand the whole way through. i can’t wait till you start asking me questions. Although words will certainly fail to express how much i love you, our love story is filled with fun, optimism and immeasurable bliss. it’s a story of a million beautiful memories that no one can ever take away from us and i’d endlessly be proud to share it with you. As we always tell each other whenever we part ways or go to sleep, you will always be my princess and i, your first love.
Jake Ejercito and his alleged daughter Ellie
stay real and stay bright, my love X Actually, as i was saying, as early as last March in an exclusive interview with Funfare before he went back to singapore, Jake said when asked abut Ellie, “i treat her as my daughter.” At that time, Jake’s dad, Pres./Mayor Erap Estrada was with us but i guess Erap was then “clueless” about the whole thing, or he just wasn’t interested in trivial matters that, to showbiz-watchers, were, believe it or not, a matter of life and death. i called up Erap. How many grandchildren do you have all in all? Erap: Hmmmm….(He lost count. i guess, probably, 10?) Your youngest apo is the talk of the town. Erap: Who? Ellie, daughter of Andi Eigenmann. Jake has been confirmed to be the father. Erap: When i asked (Jake) about it, he said, “Wala.” He denied it. When was that? Erap: noon pa ‘yon. After that, hindi na kami nag-usap tungkol dyan ni Jake.” Oh, is Erap the last to know? After a week of pregnant silence, Andi issued a statement saying that she deliberately kept mum about the matter to protect her daughter’s privacy. through it all, she had only harsh words about Albie whose career
Photo from Jake’s Instagrtam account
was ruined (he was being built up as the loveteam-mate of Kathryn Bernardo in the remake ofMara Clara until the controversy exploded, with Daniel Padilla as the beneficiary since he eventually ended up as Kathryn’s partner; good thing Albie is fast recovering lost ground). “relieved” was how Albie described his feeling about the issue, thanking those who have been supporting him through his “ordeal.” “What’s important is that Albie has been cleared,” rina Casiño told Funfare in a phone interview yesterday. “We knew the truth all the while but we kept quiet and waited for Andi to tell the truth. the whole controversy could have been avoided if they told the truth early on.” Andi’s statement notwithstanding, and Jake’s instagram postings hinting if not totally admitting the truth, showbizwatchers (especially the netizens who have been rallying behind Albie) are not appeased, it seems not happy with just an “official statement” from Andi but an…apology? Asked about it (an apology), rina said, “it would be nice if (Andi) apologized to Albie for her own sake. it would be a gesture of humility.” And maybe, just maybe, netizens would finally leave Andi in peace and put the issue to rest.
Sarah Geronimo enjoying break from showbiz by chRistina
aLpad ManilaTimes.net
EXCEPt for intermittent sightings by chance or the occasional event, fans hardly see pop princess and actress sarah Geronimo these days. When they do though, they feel happy despite missing their idol since she seems to be enjoying her two-month break. in her short hiatus, Geronimo has been spotted enjoying the outdoors and doing activities that millennials like her had long ticked off their bucket lists—climbing mountain summits, or swimming with the butandings of Oslob, among others. Moreover, fans and observers are all the more thrilled that Geronimo is experiencing life with her beau, the handsome actor and singer Matteo Guidicelli. indeed, the 28-year-old superstar’s break is long overdue. since she began joining singing contests at age four, music—and her career—had become her whole life. At 14, she gained her biggest break winning star for a night, and thereafter was nonstop in recording albums, mounting concerts, and starring in tV shows and blockbuster movies. On top of these, she also goes abroad for concert tours and personal appearances. Grateful for her success, Geronimo realized lately that her thriving career has its downside too. For one, it affected her health and also deprived her from experienc-
Sarah Geronimo
ing the simple things in life. Her situation led to her decision to take a break and to reflect. Realizations Catching up with the pop princess, the Manila times witnessed Geronimo in another endeavor she had long wanted to do—to advocate the welfare of children as she took the kids of Gawad Kalinga to Museo Pambata for a day of fun with “Ate sarah.” Organized by insurance company Manulife, Geronimo related how grateful she is to finally have the time for true outreach. “We’ve been helping people in our own ways but the sense of fulfillment is really on a different level when you’re physically there, and you see and feel the happiness of these children,” she enthused. As for her adventures in the great outdoors, Geronimo revealed, “i was inspired by my
younger cousin who, despite her busy schedule as a student, finds time to climb mountains, meet indigenous people and teach children communities. i thought to myself, if my cousin can do that, why can’t i? i knew that i have to find time do to something similar to that. so here it is.” During the course of her two-month break, which has the permission of her management company Viva and home network ABs-CBn, Geronimo is thriving on many realizations. “there comes a time in our lives when we’ve already achieved our dreams, but we suddenly ask ourselves, ‘Am i on the right path? is this [entertaining]my sole purpose?’ And then it dawned on me: success and happiness becomes temporary when you can’t share it. somehow you’ll feel empty inside. the most important thing is to make ‘sharing’ your main goal,” Geronimo intimated to the Manila times. With this realization, the celebrity said she has adopted a new philosophy in life, which she is excited to bring to her work when she returns to the spotlight. “i can say that i am 100percent back on track. i have a new mindset and i am now, more than ever, energized and motivated to work,” Geronimo exclaimed. Career-wise, she is all the more excited to return to the set, stage and recording studio with a free reign on her art.
MOONLIGHTING by MYLAH DE
LEON
The message of ‘Passport to Heavenly Life’ by Camilo C. Graza
As a layman preacher, Graza looks at it all with down to earth warmth and candor, IN the Bible, in both the remembering his early preachOld and New Testament, it is said that it can be read in many ing experience, based on his ways. For some, it is the purest unshakeable belief in Christ. He maintains an impeccable literature we have in the English reputation by urging cooperalanguage, for others it is a compendium of information on tion, rather than competition, among religious people as well struggling, suffering, rejoicing human nature and redemption. as layman. This characteristic Still for others, it constitutes is carried over when he advises people in matters of retirement, divine teaching, like Filipinopensions and estate planning as American lay preacher and a member of the Million Dollar retired mechanical engineer Insurance Round Table OrganiCamilo Graza. His vision and zation, in addition to advocatinsight of decades of evangeing his faith among all religious lism are contained in his book, people. “Passport to Heavenly Eternal It took three years for the Life.” For the first time ever, in a message of faith that touches book to come of the press, and I have shared Graza’s thoughts hearts and souls, he describes the entire time he wrote the his vision of a pathway to book. heaven. Now off the press, The interview Graza’s book shares his church’s “To be honest, I never faith — both in the Philippines thought I would write this and the US.
Professor Graza and Annie Graza at the book launching at Mayflower Restaurant
Friends that gathered for the book launching
Celebrating with family and congregation members.
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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 5, 2016
Author Camilo S. Graza and book literary editor, MDL
book,” he initially said. He felt he was simply too busy for such an extension project, not only because of his preachings but his other responsibilities that demanded tremendous amount of time and decision-making. “It would be beyond my ability to write such a book alone, I’ll surely need help from others but where would I ever find them, and how could he ever encompass a lifetime of ministry and the message he wished to convey in one volume?,” he said. “But most of all, everything accomplished through my life has been solely God’s doing the main thrust of our message is centered on Christ and what He has done for us, by His death and resurrection and the need for us to respond by committing our lives to Him; who came to forgive us and
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heaven waits, with a new life, as we turn to Him through the pathway to eternal heaven. Through these pages, the reader will discover his how I have sought (however imperfect) to follow, God’s vision of God’s plan for this world…heaven awaits. Then all efforts have been worth it.” What is the message? “First of all, about God – He created us in His image. [He] created us and love us, so that we may live in harmony and fellowship with Him. He put us here for a purpose, and that should become the foundation and center of our lives — not to be separated and alienated from God through sin, as we choose our own way, His rightful place in our lives, away from the moral chaos and heartache of our world. The headlines scream everyday that we live in a broken sin-ravaged
Photos by Bobby Crisostomo
world.” The message of the book declares God’s love, it yearns to forgive and bring us back to Himself, our lives filled with meaning and purpose right now. “He wants us to spend all eternity with Him, free forever from the pain, the sorrow and the death of this world.”
This is an inspiring book of how a man of God examined his life and ministry from a wise and humble perspective that has made him beloved and respected, in an unforgettable book that will be treasured by readers. ***
E-mail Mylah at moonlightingmdl@ aol.com
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