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E D I T I OE ND I T I O NI T I O N ED
E DITION January 21-24, 2017
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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 27 - No. 7 • 4 Sections – 30 Pages
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Trump sworn in as 45th president with direction to put ‘America first’ Also published in: • Orange County/Inland Empire • Northern California • Las Vegas • New York/ New Jersey
by ChriStina
M. oriel
AJPress
WAShINGTON -- The sporadic rain wasn’t enough to deter nearly 1 million individuals from flocking to the National Mall to witness firsthand the inauguration of Donald J. Trump as the United States’ 45th president. After taking the oath of office — which was officiated by Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts using a Trump family bible and one that
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belonged to former President Abraham Lincoln — Trump delivered his inaugural address, which laid out key issues his administration would focus on and employed the familiar rhetoric from his various campaign remarks. “We, the citizens of America, are now joined in a great national effort to rebuild our country and to restore its promise for all of our people,” Trump began his roughly 16-minute speech. “Together, we will determine the course of America and the world for years to
USA
FROM ThE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
Community organizations gear up to help undocumented Filipinos amid new administration WITh President-elect Donald Trump officially taking office this week, community organizations across Southern California have been preparing to safeguard undocumented Filipinos who may be subject to deportation. Trump, who was inaugurated on Friday, January 20, gained traction during the presidential campaign for his strict immigration proposals, such as building a wall along the United States-Mexico border and imposing an ideology test for future immigrants coming into the country. In the Filipino-American community, many have not forgotten comments the real estate billionaire made last summer that seemed to suggest a ban on immigration from areas with high rates of terrorism, including the Philippines. The extent of how far the 45th president will carry out his campaign promises remains to be seen, however. “The biggest concern is that the rhetoric is starting to really go beyond just the Latino
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come. We will face challenges. We will confront hardships. But we will get the job done.” however, instead of throwing praises for the federal government, he strayed away from usual addresses of past presidents by noting that his administration would signal a power shift in Washington. “Today’s ceremony, however, has very special meaning. Because today we are not merely transferring power from one Administration to another,
by ChriStina
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M. oriel
AJPress
WAShINGTON — On the eve of the inauguration, over 800 Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) gathered at the Mayflower hotel to celebrate their contributions to the election of incoming President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence. The gala on Thursday night, January 19, which was organized in part by the campaign’s Asian Pacific American Advisory Committee, featured cuisine and entertainment from various Asian cultures, as well as speeches from various elected officials. “We may all be different in culture, we may come from different regions of the United States and the territories, but I see a similarity: it’s a belief in strong faith, in family, in strong communities,” Eddie Calvo, the governor of Guam, said. “And then at the same time, hon-
Real estate billionaire Donald Trump is officially inaugurated as the 45th president of the United States on Friday, January 20 at the Capitol building in Washington, DC. (Inset) Trump takes the oath of office officiated by Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts.
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AJPress photos by Christina M. Oriel
President Barack Obama’s leaves lasting legacy on the Fil-Am community Fil-Ams say farewell, celebrate Obama’s historic policies, programs by Klarize
MeDenilla AJPress
EMPLEO Pinoy Program increases resources for Fil-Am workers
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be America first,” he commanded. Taking a more serious, gloomy tone, the 45th president mentioned the pitfalls of American society affected by drug abuse, poverty, and crime. he touched upon vows to restore jobs and the middle class, defeat “radical Islamic terrorism,” and secure the borders — all talking points he heavily touted throughout his campaign. “We will follow two simple rules: Buy American and hire American,” he
Fil-Am GOPs celebrate inauguration, share expectations for Trump’s first 100 days
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NORMA was only supposed to work as a relief caregiver when she was petitioned to come to the United States from the Philippines to look after an elderly woman suffering from cancer. however, it wasn’t long before she became her charge’s primary aid. That wasn’t just because she was a hard worker, and it certainly wasn’t the result of a healthy relationship with the people she served. Norma said it was because no other caregivers were willing to put up with the abusive treatment of this particular patient and her family. “I thought I was only going to work for one patient, but at the end of the day I had two, mother and son,” said Norma, who spoke to the Asian Journal under a pseudonym due to concerns regarding her immigration status. She added that, for three months, she had spent “almost 24 hours a day” on her feet and slept “three hours a day.” In addition to her regular duties, Norma also found herself at the beck and call of the elderly woman’s son, who operated on a nocturnal schedule and would insist that the Filipina caregiver cook and clean for him at odd hours of the night. In return, she was paid far less for her
or from one party to another — but we are transferring power from Washington, D.C. and giving it back to you, the American people,” he said. he went on to say that “Washington flourished” and “politicians prospered” at the expense of ordinary citizens and jobs. “The American carnage stops right here and stops right now,” he said, saying his administration would come with a “new vision.” “From this moment on, it’s going to
President Barack Obama speaks during the 2016 Democratic National Convention
DURING his historic eight-year leadership, former United States President Barack Obama prioritized a slew of contentious policies, especially those concerning Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs). With the help of the re-established White house Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (WhIAAPI) and a newly created President’s Advisory Commission on AAPIs, the administration expressed a deep commitment to the community. Obama was the first president to initiate the annual celebration of FilipinoAmerican history Month, collaborating
AJPress photo by Christina M. Oriel
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PH House speaker: PNP Chief should resign over Korean exec’s slay by Dana
SioSon AJPress
hOUSE Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez called on Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa to resign from his post following the murder of a South Korean businessman inside Camp Crame. “Director General Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa should immediately
resign as chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to save President Rodrigo Duterte from further embarrassment and restore respect to the Office of the PNP Chief,” Alvarez said in a statement on Friday, January 20. Earlier this week, the Philippines’ Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed that a Korean national, identified as hanjin executive Jee Ick Joo, was killed inside the PNP’s
main headquarters in Quezon City. Dela Rosa said he was very embarrassed upon receiving the reports that the Korean national was killed inside the police headquarters. According to Alvarez, the crime was “not only an insult but a clear indication” that Dela Rosa has “lost the respect of his people.” Jee was kidnapped allegedly by
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MEETING WITH LA FIL-AM REPORTERS
Sec. Andanar affirms PH-US relations under Trump, talks #LeniLeaks, martial law by Klarize
MeDenilla AJPress
SINCE Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s entrance into office, he has has been the recipient of criticism in the international media for his controversial statements and brash language. Most recently, Duterte received international attention after many publications reported that he Secretary Martin Andanar suggested he would declare martial law. Shortly after Secretary of Presidential Communications Operations Martin Andanar clarified his statements saying that Duterte meant that if the illegal drug epidemic and growing terrorism persists in the country, he may impose martial law. Andanar added that the media’s mishandling of the statement was a product of “irresponsible” journalism, a statement which angered the National Union of Journalists in the Philippines (NUJP). As an effort to establish a close relationship with the media, Andanar on Tuesday, January 17, made a stop in Los Angeles before heading to Washington, D.C., meeting with a small number of Fil-Am news outlets to discuss and clarify a number of issues.
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A JANUARY 21-24, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
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From the Front Page
President Barack Obama’s leaves…
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with Fil-Am leaders across the nation. In 2009, Obama rolled out a $225 million stimulus package for Filipino World War II veterans to compensate for their efforts during the war. Under his leadership, Filipino WWII veterans were given the opportunity to reunite with the family members from the moth-
erland with the Filipino WWII Veterans Parole (FWVP) program, a family-based immigration parole program. Most recently, Filipino WWII veterans were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the nation’s highest civilian honor, last month. Many young Fil-Ams praise the 44th president of the United
States for mobilizing the community, like Aries Dela Cruz, president of the Filipino American Democratic Club in New York. “I think I share a lot of young Filipino Americans’ sentiments when I say that I am incredibly fortunate to have lived under our most ambitious and accomplished Democratic president since [Franklin Delano Roosevelt],” Dela Cruz told the Asian Journal over email. “No other president has accomplished so much for Filipino Americans, and that is why Obama is leaving office with historic approval ratings,” Dela Cruz added. Immigration was one of the former president’s most celebrated achievements among FilAms and a cornerstone of his administration. More opportunities became more accessible to hundreds of thousands of young undocumented immigrants through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. “I grew up feeling kind of left out and had this overall idea that I could never get what other kids had,” Derek Solis, an undocumented student at California State University, Los Angeles, told the Asian Journal on Wednesday, January 18. DACA is a program that allowed undocumented youth -commonly referred to as DREAMers --to gain work authorization and protection from deportation. Depending on the state, they can also apply for a driver’s license. Tears welling up in his eyes, Solis, 25, recounted his teen years when he quietly sat on the sidelines while witnessing his friends getting jobs and receiving driver’s licenses. “I never told anyone of my status, so I always had to make excuses for why I couldn’t drive or get a job. I can’t tell you what it felt like when President Obama introduced DACA and gave his speech about how immigrants matter. DACA was kind of this shining beacon of hope that said, ‘hey, just because you’re undocumented doesn’t mean you can’t do all those things, too,’” Solis said. He considers Obama to be the “most inclusive and most aware” president in the history of the United States and that he is going to miss “having a president
FLOWER FESTIVAL WELCOMES MISS U CANDIDATES. Miss Universe candidates join the flower parade in Baguio City on Wednesday, January 18. Four giant floats and hundreds of street dancers provide a preview of the famed Panagbenga Festival to Miss Universe candidates. nquirer.net photo by EV Espiritu
Fil-Am GOPs celebrate inauguration…
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est, hard work without a government on our backs, rather than a government that will support us. With that, we come to this victory... But the work is not done. Starting tomorrow, this organization and fellow Republicans -we’re going to move forward, ” The Trump-Pence campaign’s APA advisory committee -which was formally announced just weeks before the November election and was criticized as a last-minute effort -- also featured five Filipino Americans, including Brunswick, Ohio Mayor Ron Falconi. “The Republican Party has done a tremendous amount of outreach to AAPI communities, particularly to me, and it’s really paid off,” Falconi told the Asian Journal. “I’ve been working with them for the past couple of years and we’ve reached different groups and this party is the culmination of that.” For the past three years, the Republican National Committee (RNC) has been working on a grassroots level to engage minority and millennial voters, especially AAPIs, noting the population’s fast-growing numbers and potential to swing races. Being in D.C. for the inauguration, Falconi said, has been u PAGE A3 “electrifying” and “exciting.”
“This is the dream of every Republican little boy and girl... to attend the inauguration of a Republican president,” Falconi said. Tina Wenger, a county councilwoman of Elkhart County in Indiana, said a new Republican president is “long overdue.” “We are celebrating because the last eight years have been a load on our shoulders and all of a sudden it’s been lifted,” Wenger said. “It’s really a relief knowing a new dawn, a new hope and good changes are coming. Trump really loves America and Americans.” She added that the 45th president’s inaugural address would be “inspiring” and would “really speak to the people, not talk down to them.” Marlene Cagatao, a realtor from Burbank was among over 20 Fil-Ams from Southern California who traveled in a group to witness Friday’s ceremony. “This is my first inauguration experience and I’m very excited to end eight years of the Obama administration, the corruption and hypocrisy of liberals,” she opined. Herman Martir — a pastor from Dallas, Texas who was a member of the Trump campaign’s APA committee and its national diversity coalition — said the
real estate billionaire wasn’t his first candidate choice early in the primary race. However, he threw his support after realizing “Trump would give power back to the people.” “I have met with him personally and he has become a friend,” Martir said. “Mr. Trump has shared with me his love for Filipino Americans. He has said, ‘we need more hardworking people like you in America.’” First 100 days The Fil-Ams interviewed by the Asian Journal also expressed their optimism for Trump’s first 100 days, as this period will set the tone for his administration. “He actually has great compassion for the poor and minorities,” Martir remarked. “People characterize him as racist because they don’t know him. He prioritizes family and safety. He needs to prioritize keeping our nation secure -- that’s something that is important to him.” These Fil-Ams also agreed that the economy and job creation are imperative to address since Trump has vowed on the campaign trail to return more opportunities to Americans. “We need laws that will make businesses prosper in America. Number 1 is to bring back jobs and then strengthen our pres-
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From the Front page
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 21-24, 2017
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HUDDLE. President Rodrigo Duterte talks to Philippine National Police Chief Director General Ronald “Bato” de la Rosa during the oathtaking of police officials in Malacañang on Thursday, Jan. 19. ManilaTimes.net photo by Rene Dilan
Trump’s motorcade makes its way down Pennsylvania Ave. in Washington DC for the inaugural parade on Friday afternoon, January 20.
Trump sworn in as 45th president with…
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added. Of course, Trump closed with his popular campaign slogan, which drew in cheers from members of the audience. “Together we will make America strong again. We will make America wealthy again. We will make America proud again. We will make America safe again,” he concluded. “And, yes, together, we will make America great again.” Prior to his remarks, in the usual pomp and circumstance, the ceremony – being the 58th inauguration in American history – started off with the ceremonial entrances of current members of Congress, former presidents and vice presidents, and Supreme Court justices. Then, came the families of Trump and incoming Vice President Mike Pence, be-
fore outgoing President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden were announced. Former Secretary of State and First Lady Hillary Clinton -- who won the popular vote by over 2 million but ultimately lost the Electoral College votes -- was also present alongside her husband, former President Bill Clinton, in a sign of unity. Over 60 Democratic members of the House, however, chose to not attend the inauguration in a protest against Trump’s divisive rhetoric. After the inauguration, there were several events, including a luncheon with congressional leaders, the inaugural parade ending at the White House, and the signing of Trump’s first executive order in the Oval Office to lessen regulations on Obamacare.
Defense Secretary James Mattis and Homeland Secretary John Kelly were both confirmed by the Senate later in the afternoon on Friday, marking the first positions filled in the new Cabinet. As the new administration got settled into the White House, former First Lady Michelle Obama took one last flight on the Air Force One headed to Palm Springs, California for a vacation. Before departing, Obama delivered brief remarks to staff and supporters, joking that he and Michelle have “really been milking this goodbye thing.” “This has been the privilege of my life, and I know I speak for Michelle as well, and you know, we look forward to continuing this journey with all of you and I can’t wait to see what you do next,” he said, before reiterating “Yes we did, yes we can.” n
adding that he plans to fight for DACA and for Congress to establish a pathway to citizenship. Solis’s girlfriend, Clara Polanco, noted that Obama’s presidency was “crucial” in her choice to major in political science. An aspiring lawyer, she was influenced by all the “landmark decisions he made that transformed American society.” “I think, apart from the immi-
gration programs, legalizing gay marriage was one of his greatest achievements,” Polanco, 22, said. “Having a president who supports pro-LGBT policies is so historic and will, hopefully, set a new standard for future presidencies. I will miss his commitment to making sure all Americans receive the same rights.” “I’m going to miss both Presi-
President Barack Obama’s leaves…
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that saw the human element” in the contentious issue of immigration. “President Obama’s commitment to making sure us young immigrants get the opportunities we deserve is definitely my favorite thing about his presidency. I didn’t get to vote, but if I could have, I would have voted for him,” said the aspiring doctor,
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Sec. Andanar affirms PH-US relations under…
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Andanar met to establish a network with Fil-Am media and to clarify any issues surrounding the Duterte administration. “I wanted to personally meet with journalists who really have a stake in our country,” Andanar told reporters. Later in the week, Andanar met with Fil-Am journalists from New York City and Washington D.C. The meeting at Deluca at The Americana in Glendale, California covered a wide range of topics including the Philippines’ budding relationship with China and Japan, Philippine trade, the United Nations’ criticism over the drug war and a slew of Philippine domestic issues. One of the most contentious issues regards the maintenance of the U.S./Philippine alliance as U.S. President Donald Trump begins his presidency. Just months before, Duterte has expressed criticism toward former President Barack Obama the U.S. and its policies and has announced economically and militarily separating from the U.S. in favor of a more “independent foreign policy.” Andanar noted the mutual respect between Duterte and Trump and said that the Duterte administration has high hopes that that longstanding alliance will strengthen during Trump’s presidency. “President Obama and President Duterte may not have started at the right footing, but defi-
nitely President Donald Trump are starting off at the right way, including the new U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, Sung Kim, who has high respect for [President Duterte],” Andanar told the Asian Journal. “We are very optimistic that with our long history of relationship with the United States of America. The U.S. has been our big brother for the longest time.” He added: “With the assumption of Donald Trump, everything will fall into place. You have President Donald Trump who respects President Duterte and his policy in terms of independent foreign policy and his war against illegal drugs. Everything looks bright.” In terms of the martial law scare being covered by domestic and global media, the press secretary once again clarified what the president meant in his statement. He also acknowledged the residual fear Filipinos have from former President Ferdinand Marcos’s declaration of martial law. “I know every time martial law is mentioned, the psyche of the Filipino changes into an attack mode, especially those who are victims of martial law and those who have left the Philippines prior to marital law or during martial law,” Andanar said. “So, it doesn’t sit well with a huge number of our population, but the president has always mentioned that he will declare martial law if the drug problem and terrorism becomes unstop-
pable; we will become a narcos state. So there is a qualifier,” he clarified. Regarding the “#LeniLeaks” issue -- the alleged conspiracy that Vice President Leonor “Leni” Robredo is involved in a plot to oust Duterte -- Andanar remarked that it isn’t an issue of importance for the administration. He added that those perpetuating the conspiracy are Filipinos who refuse to “move on” and accept the “fair” results of the election. “All this talk about ousters and coup plots against President Duterte is all over the papers, social media and television. Sadly our country has not moved on and not left that system of ousting somebody they don’t like. And that only happens in a system where the law is weak,” Andanar asserted. “It’s very sad. You lose an election and you can’t accept that you lost an election. The lack of respect to the electoral process of the country, the lack of respect for the rule of law. That’s always been the case in our country,” he said, adding that the widespread approval of Duterte — 8 out of 10 Filipinos, according to him - “cannot be discounted.” Andanar’s stop in LA came before he travelled to Washington, D.C. to meet with Fil-Am leaders in the nation’s capital. He confirmed that he would be meeting with U.S. officials, but did not provide further details as to whom he was meeting. n
A JANUARY 21-24, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
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PH House speaker: PNP Chief‌ PAGE A1 t
police officers under the guise of the government’s campaign against illegal drugs on October 18, 2016. He was reportedly killed on the same day but perpetrators still demanded a P8-million ransom from his family. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) pronounced Jee dead on Tuesday, January 17. The agency, however, was not able to recover the victim’s body. Alvarez said Dela Rosa should
just give his position to someone else who is “dead serious in leading the PNP in its multi-pronged war against drugs, criminals and the scalawags within its ranks.� The house speaker hit the PNP chief for his “booboos,� citing the incident when the latter ran away during a press conference after a confiscated firecracker he was holding began to exhibit smoke. “How can we believe the stern statements Dela Rosa had been making against criminals like in
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the aftermath of the Davao City bombing when he was the first to run in the slightest possibility of danger?� Alvarez asked. Alvarez also accused Dela Rosa of being more interested in having a showbiz career, singing in videokes, and attending concerts. Last week, Dela Rosa attended a rock concert last week in Pasay City and performed with the band as part of the government’s campaign against illegal drugs. ‘Ask Duterte’ In response to his resignation call, Dela Rosa told his critics to ask President Rodrigo Duterte to remove him from his post. “Akala ba nila nag-e-enjoy ako sa trabaho ko? Gusto nila ako mag-resign, sabihin nila sa Presidente na paalisin ako (Do they think I’m enjoying myself? If they want me to resign, the should ask the president to remove me),� Dela Rosa told reporters. Dela Rosa also described those seeking for his resignation “cruel.� “Grabe naman sila (They’re too much). How cruel of them to say na mag-resign ako. Wala na nga akong pahinga, wala na nga akong tulog (I don’t even have rest nor sleep) but anyway we cannot satisfy everyone,� he said. Admitting that Jee’s death was a shortcoming of the police, Dela Rosa, however, said he wanted to first finish the government’s crackdown on illegal drugs before leaving his post. “Sabihin nila magresign ako. Ako ay hirap na hirap na. Gusto n’yo ako magresign nahiya lang ako iwan si Presidente. Ipagpatuloy namin itong aming giyera sa droga (You want me to resign but I don’t want to leave the president hanging. We will continue our war on drugs),� the PNP chief added. n
Community organizations gear up to help‌
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immigrant community and especially the Muslim community. It’s starting to encompass all immigrants,� Andrew Amaro, special projects coordinator at Alliance San Diego, shared with the Asian Journal. “In the Fil-Am community, what’s happening is that a lot of them are starting to come out and talk about immigration.�
Since being elected in November, Trump has announced plans to deport up to 3 million undocumented immigrants who “have criminal records,� and is set on reversing immigration polices implemented by President Barack Obama — one of them being the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which has spared over
700,000 young immigrants from deportation. For undocumented immigrants, including those who are Filipino, the uncertainty of their statuses casts a shadow of fear. “It has been really encouraging that people were stepping out of the shadows,� Amaro said. “But since we have a new pres-
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Fil-Am GOPs celebrate inauguration‌ PAGE A2 t
ence abroad because America is not respected right now,� Falconi said. Martir added, “Fil-Ams have worked so hard and are the fabric of this country. We need those opportunities back.� Wenger, who has lived in the U.S. for over 30 years, went on to remark that the immigration system needs to be overhauled. “We have spent so much on [undocumented] immigrants to house, feed and educate them,� Wenger said. “Immigration has to be reformed to not separate families; usually the parents get deported and we end up taking care of the kids. Why should we do that when they belong with
the mother and father?� Message to other Fil-Ams Following the election of Trump, many in the Fil-Am community have vocalized their opposition for him and have joined in on protests against the divisive rhetoric. However, these Fil-Am Republicans said others should wait and see what the new president does once in office. “They should educate themselves better and open their eyes to realize that Americans didn’t want a third Obama term,� Fely Quitevis, a realtor from Pahrump, Nevada, said. It was Quitevis’s second time to witness a presidential inauguration in person on Friday.
“It’s time to unite around the president and give him a chance,� Falconi said. “See what are some of the good things he can do for not only the United States, but also for our Fil-Am community. A lot of people have underestimated him, but he has proven them all wrong. You’ll see he’s going to make America great again.� Martir echoed the sentiment that Trump deserves some respect from those who didn’t vote for him. “It’s unfair to not hear him out. If you are elected president, you are not just president of one group -- you’re president for all,� he said. “That’s part of our democracy and that’s what makes us Americans.� n
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Community organizations gear up to help… California withdraws bid to allow undocumented immigrants to buy unsubsidized Obamacare plans
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ident-elect, a lot of those people are afraid to come out now, even to our [immigration] workshops and to any of the dialogues we hold. These folks really don’t want to expose themselves.” Trump expected to end DACA Until there is a formal move to end DACA by the incoming president, the program will remain in place, the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) advised. Of the 18,000 DACA-eligible Filipinos in the United States, 27 percent have applied, according to data from the Migration Policy Institute. About 89 percent of the Filipino applicants have been approved as of September of last year, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reported. Organizations like Alliance San Diego and Asian Americans Advancing Justice — Los Angeles (Advancing Justice — LA) are among the dozens of community partners that form part of Ready California, a statewide coalition working to ensure that immigrants have access to up-to-date information and legal services in order to protect themselves and their families. They have advised new DACAeligible immigrants not to apply for the program, however, since Trump has said that he would end the program when he enters office. Amaro added that these immigrants should have their documents just in case “they are visited by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or any other agency.” “Many DACAmented Filipinos are worried about keeping their internships, jobs, and careers that they’ve come so far to achieve. Many have gone on to higher paying jobs, continued to pursue their education, and have obtained professional licenses to pursue careers as doctors, nurses, lawyers, and educators,” Tiffany Panlilio, a legal advocate at Advancing Justice — LA, told the Asian Journal in an email. “Despite their worries, they are also eager to fight to keep the DACA program.” Other alternatives Advancing Justice — LA is offering free, confidential consultations to explore other avenues toward legal status that undocumented immigrants may be eligible for, such as family-based immigration, U-visas (for crime victims) or asylum. The Pilipino Workers Center (PWC) located in LA’s Historic Filipinotown is another group promoting resources for undocumented Filipinos, such as informational workshops and an emergency hotline for deportation defense assistance. “It is better to find a support network rather than hiding in
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B. IBArrA And ChAd Terhune California Healthline
Immigration activists rally in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday, January 14. AJPress photo by Eric Anthony Licas)
isolation and it is better to plan than to panic,” Aquilina Versoza, executive director of PWC, said in an interview with the Asian Journal. PWC is also doing its part to educate undocumented Filipinos how the state of California and major cities like LA are countering Trump’s hardline stance on immigration. Last month, LA Mayor Eric Garcetti announced a $10-million fund dedicated to assisting the city’s undocumented immigrants facing removal. The city’s police department has declared it would not participate in any federal deportation operations. “People who have built their lives in America have rights, and they deserve all of the protections that our legal system provides,” Garcetti said in a statement released on December 19. “The LA Justice Fund will reach out to people who are American by every measure except the papers they hold — our family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. They are part of our community, and we will fight for them.” Thousands of advocates have also taken to the city’s streets on several occasions in December and January to voice their opposition of the anti-immigration proposals. Versoza added that some individuals may prey on undocumented immigrants’ fears and scam them financially by falsely promising a pathway to legal status. “Putting fear into immigrant populations is not good for public safety and mass deporting people is going to result in a lot of human tragedy, separation of families and destruction within our community,” Versoza told the Asian Journal following the rally in downtown LA in December. “We know there are a lot of people who rely on domestic workers — nannies to take care of their kids – and a lot of them could be deported if Trump does what he says he’s going to do.”
President Barack Obama’s…
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dent Obama and First Lady Michelle [Obama],” Polanco added. “They were the embodiment of class and decency, and were shining examples of success, as black Americans. Even if you don’t support them politically, you can’t deny they were great role models for people of color. They are great role models.” One of Obama’s most controversial policies includes the landmark universal health care law, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Since its induction, Republican lawmakers have remained committed to dismantling Obamacare and replacing it with another law. Through Obamacare, the country experienced its lowest uninsured rate at 8.6 percent and has given health insurance to more than 20 million Americans, according to White House statistics. “My family got insurance for the first time through Covered California,” said Maria Lindos, 24, a graduate student at CSULA. “I think of all those stories of Americans who got insurance through Obamacare and realized that they
had serious illnesses after seeing a doctor. Even though a lot of people opposed this law, it helped a lot of Americans and it’s, like, so upsetting that there are lawmakers that want to take it away.” In the aftermath of President Donald Trump’s surprising election on November 8 -- as well as Republicans’ win in Congress -- Americans everywhere felt a sense of fear that many of Obama’s landmark policies will be repealed as promised. Since then, Republicans in Congress have made moves to repeal Obamacare, rescind DACA, defund Planned Parenthood as well as work to overturn Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion. However many Fil-Ams, like Dela Cruz, vow to fight for these programs and encourage other young Fil-Ams to get involved in the political system. “Republicans at all levels of government are now determined to dismantle our country’s institutions from healthcare to social security and to put in place punitive measures against immigrant families who come from the Philippines, which Trump has unjustly characterized as a terrorist
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“Know your rights” Versoza said Fil-Ams can do their part in protecting undocumented community members by speaking out for them and by supporting organizations that provide these low-cost or free legal services. “Undocumented Filipinos are feeling under attack, and even by their own community, because so many Filipinos voted for the incoming administration. Speak out when others are advocating for deporting all undocumented immigrants. Educate yourself about how unjust and unfair the immigration system is,” she said. In addition to pursuing advice from qualified legal services providers, the ILRC outlined rights that immigrant families will continue to have under the Trump administration, such as the right
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LAWMAKERS in Sacramento have halted a first-in-the-nation effort by California to expand access to health coverage for immigrants living in the state without legal documents. At the behest of the state Legislature, Covered California, the state’s insurance exchange, withdrew its request to sell unsubsidized health plans to people who are here illegally. The withdrawal was first reported by the Sacramento Bee. Under the Affordable Care Act, people who cannot prove they are in the country legally are barred from purchasing coverage on the exchange. But some immigrants in this situation had pinned their hopes on the state’s request for an exemption from that rule, submitted last fall to the federal government. Had it been approved, undocumented Californians would have been allowed to buy Covered California plans and join the roughly 1.3 million other people currently enrolled in the exchange. The effort to give undocumented immigrants access to the state exchange was spearheaded by state Sen. Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens) and other Democrats. They passed legislation last year and Gov. Jerry Brown signed the measure in June. It authorized Covered California to submit an
The move undermines efforts to give undocumented immigrants access to the state exchange by state Sen. Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens) and other Democrats. Courtesy of Richard Lara’s office
application to federal officials to waive the ban on such sales. But the chances of federal approval dimmed considerably with the election of Donald Trump, who has pledged to deport immigrants in the country without official papers, and to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Peter Lee, executive director of Covered California, declined to comment on the withdrawal of the state’s request for the waiver. He referred to a letter the exchange sent Wednesday to the Obama administration, which said the proposal was shelved at the request of Lara. Lara said in a written statement that he was withdrawing the plan because he feared the Trump administration might use information gleaned from it for the purpose of deporting undocumented immigrants. The plan to sell to undocumented immigrants is “the first California casualty of the Trump presidency,” Lara wrote. “I take Trump at his words that anyone is subject to deportation at any
time, and California will not be part of a wasteful and inhumane campaign against immigrants who are working hard and playing by the rules.” The decision to pull the plug on the plan comes as the future of health care for millions of Californians hangs in the balance, with Republican leaders in Washington, D.C. moving to repeal the main provisions of the Affordable Care Act. Anthony Wright, executive director of the consumer advocacy group Health Access California, said California’s move reflects a reorganization of priorities. What is urgent now, he said, is to preserve the current gains in Californians’ health coverage. And in order to bring undocumented immigrants into Covered California, officials must first ensure the exchange survives, Wright explained. “We didn’t want this waiver request, which was almost assuredly going to get rejected, to get in the way of defending these basic programs that provide coverage for so many,” he said. The sale of Covered California health plan to immigrants without legal status had not been expected to boost enrollment in the exchange significantly, since they — unlike about 90 percent of current enrollees — would not have qualified for federal subsidies to reduce their premiums. That would have made it difficult or impossible for many of them
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A JANUARY 21-24, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
Dateline USa
Fil-Am sailor continues 75 years of Seabee tradition PORT HUENEME, Calif. — “We Build, We Fight” has been the motto of the U. S. Navy’s Construction Force, known as the “Seabees”, for the past 75 years. Highland Park, California native and Benjamin Franklin High School graduate, Petty Officer 3rd Class Julio Domingo, builds and fights around the world as a member of a naval construction battalion center located in Port Hueneme, California. Domingo works as a hospital corpsman in the Navy. “I’m in charge of the dental readiness of approximately 500 Seabees,” said Domingo. “I assist with dental procedures including exams, fillings and records check.” The jobs of some of the Seabees today have remained unchanged since World War II, when the Seabees paved the 10,000-mile road to victory for the allies in the Pacific and in Europe, according to Lara Godbille, director of the U. S. Navy Seabee Museum.
President Barack…
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state,” he said. “We will continue to build and strengthen relationships with our elected officials here to represent the needs of Filipino Americans on the Democratic Party’s core issues. It is a testament to the historic accomplishments and legacy of President Obama that we as Democrats have so much to defend as Donald Trump’s regime and party takes over the apparatus of power in America,” she added. n
to remain silent and access to a lawyer. They also advise immigrants not to sign anything they don’t understand and not to let ICE agents enter their homes. “If [immigrant officials] come to your home…they need to have a search warrant [signed by a judge]. It’s very important that communities know that they have rights and they don’t need to al-
EMPLEO Pinoy Program increases resources for… PAGE A1 t
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class David Wyscaver, Navy Office of Community Outreach
“I like the fact that the Seabees are a diverse community and are able to provide a variety of support worldwide,” said Domingo. For the past 75 years Seabees have served in all American conflicts. They have also supported humanitarian efforts using their construction skills to help communities around the world following earthquakes, hurricanes and other natural disasters. “I am proud of the hard work that Seabees do every day,” said Rear Adm. Bret Muilenburg, commander, Naval Facilities Engineering Command. “Their support to the Navy and Marine Corps mission is immeasurable, and we look forward to the next seven decades of service.” Seabees around the world will take part in a year-long celebration in 2017 to commemorate the group’s 75-year anniversary. The theme of the celebration is “Built on History, Constructing
the Future.” “Seabees deploy around the world providing expert expeditionary construction support on land and under the sea, for the Navy and Marine Corps, in war, humanitarian crisis and peace,” said Capt. Mike Saum, commodore, Naval Construction Group (NCG) 1. “Seabee resiliency, skill, and resolution under hostile and rough conditions prove our motto ‘We Build, We Fight.’ The Seabee patch we wear on our uniform signifies to the warfighter and civilian alike that they’re in good hands.” Serving in the U.S. Navy has allowed Domingo to continue learning about himself and the legacy he wants to leave to future Seabees. “It’s an honor to be a part of the community and serve alongside the Seabees because of the rich history and tradition they represent,” said Domingo. n
Community organizations gear up to help…
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low law enforcement, specifically ICE, to come in and search their home,” Amaro said. Even with Trump’s rhetoric, Yey Coronel, executive director of Filipino American Service Group, Inc. (FASGI) in LA, pointed out that “these changes may not necessarily happen overnight.” “We are doing what we can to help whomever is in need, including those who are fear-
ful of repercussions from the incoming administration,” Coronel told the Asian Journal. However, in the meantime, she advised undocumented Filipinos to “be mindful to obey all laws and follow rules and regulations so as not to incur undue attention that could further hinder [their] status.” (Christina M. Oriel / AJPress) *** This article is part of a New America Media fellowship program in collaboration with Ready California (Ready-California. org).
services than what labor laws mandate caregivers earn. When a chronic lack of sleep led her to develop persistent migraines, she said her complaints were laughed off by the people she toiled for. That was the last straw for Norma, who eventually got in touch with the Pilipino Workers Center (PWC) in Los Angeles. With the organization’s help, she learned that her patient’s abuses violated the law and reported them to authorities. As Norma’s case approaches resolution, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Wage and Hour Division (WHD) continues to learn of numerous instances of stolen earnings and unfair treatment of workers by their employers, according to the director of the agency’s West Covina office, Daniel Pasquil. “Workplace crimes, wage theft, they’re prevalent,” he told the Asian Journal on Wednesday, January 18. “It happens every day.” He also said that people, especially those who come from abroad, oftentimes aren’t fully aware of their rights as workers, making them more susceptible to abuse from their employers. The WHD has been in partnership with PWC and other nonprofit organizations to help combat labor related crimes in the Filipino community through the EMPLEO Pinoy program. The campaign has empowered workers like Norma to stand up to those who would take advantage of them, by providing information and counseling via workshops and a toll free hotline, (877)-TULONG1/(877)-885-6641. On Wednesday, Pasquil joined representatives from other federal bodies and the PWC at a ceremony in front of the nonprofit’s office in Los Angeles to thank members of the community as well as outside agencies who have contributed time and money in support of the program. “Nonprofit agencies like the PWC are in the trenches helping Filipino-American workers,” said labor attorney Joe Sayas. He added that “not only do they know the language and the culture, but they know the heart of the Filipino worker.” He and Filipino activist and performer Mark Bagyo, as well as Philippine Vice Consul Dyan
Philippine Vice Consul Dyan Pastrana hands a donation to PWC Board President Michael Sarmiento to the applause of the Division of Wage and Hours regional director Daniel Pasquil and supporters of the EMPLEO Pinoy outreach program on Wednesday, January 18. AJPress photo by Eric Anthony Licas
Pastrana, on behalf of her office, handed charitable donations to PWC Board President Michael Sarmiento at Wednesday’s press event that will help sustain the efforts of the EMPLEO Pinoy campaign. The program and others like it will continue fighting injustice against workers regardless of their immigration status, despite uncertainties stemming from the rhetoric espoused by recently inaugurated President Donald Trump. That’s according to the Regional Advisor for the White House Initiative Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (WHIAAPI), Paul Chang. “That is a longstanding policy not just with the department of labor, but many many agencies throughout the federal government,” he told the Asian Journal following Wednesday’s ceremony. He went on to say that “people may be fearful, that’s understandable, but the government is the people’s government and it’s important for them to continue to work with [it].” He and other speakers on Wednesday urged those feeling
trepidation as the nation transitions into the leadership of a new administration to channel their energy into greater political engagement. Chang encouraged all Americans to educate themselves regarding the policies being debated by lawmakers and become part of the conversation by providing feedback to their leaders. Members of the public are able to respond directly to specific rules proposed by the federal government by leaving a comment for the Department of State Standardized Regulations (DSSR) at its website, www.regulations. gov. The agency also offers a guide on effective comment writing and assigns a representative to read every submission, according to Chang. “Being part of the process is your voice [but] the silence of AAPIs is just so profound in government, especially in letter writing and public comment process on regulatory changes,” said Chang. “Those things are so crucial and important to the AAPI community and the outcome of policies that get enforced.” (Eric Anthony Licas / AJPress)
California withdraws bid to allow undocumented…
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to afford the policies. Moreover, immigrants in the state illegally can already buy health insurance in the private market, and the coverage options and premiums are similar to the plans sold on the exchange. Covered California estimated last August that only 17,000 Californians would have gained health coverage as a result opening the exchange to the undocumented population. Many experts and health care consumer advocates agreed that the effort was mostly a symbolic gesture – but an important one to many people. Supporters said allowing un-
documented immigrants to buy coverage on the exchange would have addressed a problem for many families composed of both legal and non-legal residents. The proposal would have allowed those “mixed-status” families to purchase their insurance together through Covered California, simplifying the process for them. Many argued that it was discriminatory to bar immigrants without papers from the state marketplace. Lara and other backers of the effort saw it as an important step toward expanding health coverage to all Californians regardless of their immigration status. Magdalena Velazquez of San
Jose, who volunteers with the advocacy group Services, Immigrant Rights, and Education Network (SIREN), has been following the issue closely. Although she does not have legal authority to be in the U.S., she has health coverage through her husband’s employer. But many of her family members and friends are uninsured. “Sadly, once again we’re seeing that the fight for our health care rights has to take a pause,” Velazquez said. When California submitted its request to the federal government last year, supporters hoped the Obama Administration would review it quickly, increasing its
chances of approval, Wright said. But as of Tuesday, the application process had only gone through a preliminary review. Some health care experts believe approval would not have been guaranteed even if the Obama administration had completed its review before Trump took office. Excluding immigrants without documents was a compromise that helped get the ACA through Congress in the first place, they noted, and Obama officials would have been reluctant to renege on it. This story was produced by Kaiser Health News, an editorially independent program of the Kaiser Family Foundation. n
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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 21-24, 2017
Dateline PhiliPPines
A
Robredo camp dares Marcos: Prove Dureza, ex-DOT chief told to return allowances ‘massive fraud’ or drop the case sary approval of the Department of Budget and Management and the Office of the President. Citing Section 12 of the SalMANILA, Philippines — Presidential Adviser on the Peace ary Standardization Law of Process Jesus Dureza and for- 1989, COA said food assistance mer tourism secretary Ramon Ji- and amelioration allowance are menez Jr. were ordered to return among the compensation demillions worth of allowances to clared included in the standardized salary rates. the government. The Commission on Audit (COA), in two separate decisions on Dec. 27, 2016, affirmed the Notices of Disallowance to Dureza and Jimenez ordering them to return the amount illegally disbursed to them under a previous administration. The notice also ordered other officials under their offices to return the allowances granted to them. The two disallowances issued against Dureza and his co-respondents in 2005 cover a total amount of P996,000 consisting of P456,000 staple food assistance and P540,000 amelioration allowance granted to officials and employees of Mindanao economic Development Council (MeDCo) from 2001 to 2004 during Dureza’s term as its chairman. The COA affirmed the findings of its Legal and Adjudication Office (LAO) that the allowances paid to MeDCo officials and employees were without the necesby elizabeth
Marcelo Philstar.com
by Dana
SioSon AJPress
The camp of Vice President Leni Robredo on Thursday, January 19, challenged defeated candidate and former Senator Bongbong Marcos to drop his electoral protest if he fails to prove his claims of “massive fraud” during the May 2016 elections. “We challenge former Senator Bongbong Marcos to enter into a written agreement that if his and his lawyer’s claimed ‘massive election fraud’ based on alleged data from 13 SD cards being decrypted by the Comelec is not proven, then Marcos should withdraw his election protest against our client, Vice President Leni Robredo,” Romulo Macalintal, Robredo’s lawyer, said in a statement earlier, Marcos’s lawyer, Victor Rodriguez, claimed that the 13 SD cards used in last year’s election were used to commit fraud during the polls. Macalintal also dared Rodriguez to surrender his license to practice law for his “irresponsible statement” if Marcos camp failed to prove its claim. If, however, Marcos is able to
Lawyer Romulo Macalintal, lead counsel for Vice President Leni Robredo. Philstar.com photo by Jonathan Asuncion
prove his allegation, Macalintal said he would quit his legal profession. “If the verification and examination of these 13 SD cards by the Comelec or concerned agencies proved the existence of such ‘massive fraud’ which favored Robredo and caused the defeat of Marcos, then I am also willing to surrender to the Supreme Court my license to practice law and will withdraw as lawyer of Robredo,” Macalintal said. Macalintal also suggested that Marcos and his lawyers file a joint manifestation before the
Facebook moves to address fake news by Janvic
Mateo Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — Social media giant Facebook has assured Filipinos that it is taking measures to address the proliferation of fake news and misinformation on the popular online platform. “We take misinformation seriously. Our goal is to connect people with the stories they find most meaningful, and we know people want accurate information,” the company said in an emailed statement. “We’ve been working on this problem for a long time – years – and still have more work to do. A few months ago we previewed some of the things we’re working
on to address the issue of fake news and hoaxes,” it added. Facebook was responding to the Senate resolution filed by Sen. Francis Pangilinan, who sought accountability from the social media platform for its supposed “inaction” over the spread of fake news. “More than being an online platform, Facebook may be described as a de facto media company or publisher that should be responsible and accountable for the content it distributes and allows to be distributed, in order to protect the national discourse from fabricated and false news,” Pangilinan said in a statement on Thursday, Jan. 20. “The propagation of fake news
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Comelec to suspend the verification and examination of the 13 SD cards until an agreement is signed by both parties in the presence of Comelec officials. “We maintain that these SD cards are not even part of Marcos protest, hence, cannot be admitted as evidence in his protest. But nevertheless we agreed to have them examined for purposes of transparency and to prove that Robredo is not hiding anything nor is she afraid to face Marcos in his baseless and frivolous protest,” Macalintal added. n
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“All agencies are hereby prohibited from granting any food, rice, gift checks or any other form of incentives/allowances except authorized via Administrative Order by the Office of the President,” COA said. Dureza, for his part, said he would abide by the COA deci-
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A JANUARY 21-24, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
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OpiniOn
Features
Tokhang for ransom
WITH police allowed to do pretty much what they please and accountability flushed down the drain, abuses in the ongoing brutal drug war are inevitable. Now the Senate is reportedly set to conduct a probe into the use of Oplan Tokhang for kidnapping and extortion. The probe was prompted by the kidnapping of South Korean businessman Jee Ick-joo at his home in Angeles City, Pampanga in October last year by police who claimed to be conducting Oplan Tokhang in the neighborhood. Jee’s wife said she paid P5 million to the kidnappers, but her husband was reportedly strangled to death on the day of his kidnapping and his body cremated on orders of the “boss” of the operation. Reports said the ashes were then flushed down the toilet of a funeral parlor owned by policeman-turned-barangay captain Ding Santiago. The suspected mastermind, Senior Police Officer 3 Ricky Sta. Isabel, recently surrendered to the National Bureau of Investigation. Probers said he enjoyed protection from a retired police general. Yesterday, three more police officers were implicated in the kidnapping. Sen. Panfilo Lacson, who is preparing to conduct an inquiry into the so-called Tokhang for ransom, said someone he knew was also kidnapped in Bu-
lacan by police conducting Oplan Tokhang. Lacson said the victim was freed after ransom was paid. As the nation continues to see in Mindanao, kidnapping for ransom can be a hugely profitable business in this country. The scourge has popped up periodically in Metro Manila and neighboring provinces, ending only when the government shows ruthless determination to eliminate kidnapping rings. Each successful caper breeds impunity and guarantees more kidnappings. Among the boldest thugs are rogue cops – those who participate directly in seizing captives and those who provide protection for the kidnapping rings. Sta. Isabel, who has denied the allegations against him, is not the first policeman to be implicated in kidnapping for ransom. Tokhang for ransom can only erode the credibility of the war on drugs, which is controversial enough. This problem must be nipped in the bud quickly. Solving the case of Jee Ick-joo would be a good start. (Philstar.com)
Guest Editorial
Philstar.com photo
Obama honors journalists at last press con: Paging Presidents Trump and Duterte
ONE THING that we the people in the news industry will surely miss about Former President Barack Obama is his acknowledgement of the important role the PRESS (news media) plays in a healthy and vibrant democracy. The press is referred to as the fourth estate — in relation to the other three traditional estates of the church, the nobility and the townsmen, or commoners in the British society which has shaped the free press in other democratic countries like the United States and the Philippines. As Harvard University explains, “the existence of a unfettered and independent press within each nation is essential in the process of democratization, by contributing towards the right of freedom of expression, thought and conscience, strengthening the responsiveness and accountability of governments to all citizens, and providing a pluralist platform and channel of political expression for a multiplicity of groups and interests.” Even former President Obama admitted that while he enjoyed working with the Press that has covered his presidency in eight years, he did not
their constituents. necessarily enjoyed the way sto“America needs you and our ries about the White House had The Fil-Am democracy needs you. We need been filed, and yet he continued you to establish a baseline of to treat the Press with respect, Perspective facts and evidence that we can cognizant of the critical role the use as a starting point for the Fourth estate plays in America. kind of reasoned and informed In his last press conference, debates that ultimately lead to Obama told journalists covering Gel SantoS-reloS progress,” he said. the White House: “And so my hope is is that “You’re not supposed to be fans, you’re supposed to be skeptics, you’re sup- you will continue with the same tenacity that you posed to ask me tough questions. You’re not sup- showed us, to do the hard work of getting to the posed to be complimentary, but you’re supposed bottom of stories and getting them right and to to cast a critical eye on folks who hold enormous push those of us in power to be the best version of power and make sure that we are accountable to ourselves and to push this country to be the best the people who sent us here, and you have done version of itself.” Unfortunately, this is not how the newly swornthat.” Obama then went on to thank and honor the in 45th president of the United States regards the press by explaining how the news media have press, neither does the president of the Philipbeen pushing and helping public servants like him pines. In many cases, they both have demonized to be honest, to work harder, to think about how journalists who were just doing their job— asking they are doing their job and whether or not they questions, debunking statements, holding elected are able to deliver on what’s been requested by and appointed public officials accountable to the
A new social contract for America: Towards equanimity from 2017 to 2020 “HOW do I strengthen the better angels of our nature? Rhizomes And how do we tamp down our tribal impulses?” — Pres. Barack Obama, 2017. “The highest good for humans is to love and take joy in the whole course of the world. ProSy aBarquezSomeone who achieves this Delacruz, J.D. loves reaches a perfect tranquility and equanimity; he is proof against all the buffetings of adverse fortune; and above all, he can love those around him constantly, steadily, undiverted by his own pain and disappointments, or his own partial interests. He attains a “generous affection, an exercise of friendship uninterrupted, a constant kindness and benignity.” – Philosophical Regimen of Anthony, Earl of Shaftesbury Equanimity is a state of cool headedness, a state of composure, the state of being calm and in control of one’s emotions. America is not in equanimity, as it inaugurated its 45th president. It was unlike the prior 44th President Obama’s inauguration, which was attended by 2 million in 2009 and over a million in 2013, marked by euphoria and enthusiasm of millions. Instead we find folks at pre-inauguration rallies and post-inauguration marches. America in 2017 has palpable tension, the pull from marches around the U.S. and solidarity cities around the world, and the push from Donald Trump’s installation as the incoming president and the changes he promises. A day before America’s inauguration on Jan. 19, a rally was held in New York, in front of the Trump Tower at 6pm, by Planned Parenthood, Greenpeace and MoveOn.org to assert New Yorkers’ rights to health care, climate change, social justice and immigrant rights. America installed its 45th president on January 20, 2017 at noon in Washington, DC, in the person of Donald J. Trump. 60 Democrat legislators did not attend. Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, a rally at noon was held for all to stand up to the values of California, its way of life, and to declare Trump is not California’s president. What are those values? On Inauguration Day, California Legislature’s Democratic Caucus issued an open letter to all Californians declaring their intentions to honor the
commitments towards safe and efficient transportation; affordable housing near where folks work; vibrant economy with competitive paying jobs; clean air, water and environment for all to enjoy; equal protection in the ballot, in employment and most especially, personal relationships and identities; a system of justice that protects all communities; welcoming all Californians whether they are born here or not; healthful food and quality health care; protection of retirement security and freedom of information. It is a comprehensive social contract illustrative of what the state’s political leaders are committed to, bringing a sense of safety and security to its California residents. Most have taken to Facebook posting how fortunate they are to be living in California. Even Twitter feeds show the pride these Californians have that they live in a progressive state which honors gender equality, equal protection including a revitalized economy that has grown from fair share of taxes paid by the elite, gay marriage, as well as an increase in personal and business incomes. We were not a sunshine state not too long ago, under the tenure of Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger when the Republican way of life was “de rigeur” (made fashionable) in California: budgets in education were slashed by 1/3, there was a lower share of taxes by the elite, lower vehicle registration fees, rest stops shut down along freeways, state parks not maintained. While the governor tried different ways, including passing bonds, his lack of governmental experience kept the state in a gridlock and state loans grew to $18 billion. He had however exposed the need for structural reform in the budget process, which the next Democrat Governor resolved. But to his credit, the protection of the environment became part of his legacy as well. Both Governors Jerry Brown and Arnold Schwarzenegger enacted laws protecting this sunshine state, by placing cap and trades on pollutants. The protection of Mother Nature became a bipartisan issue. Might we expect bipartisanship and national unity under the 45th US President’s tenure? Donors appreciation dinner and Trump’s apparent illegitimacy At a thank you dinner for Republican donors on
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people. However, while these are part of their responsibilities as journalists and are in fact protected by the Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, leaders like Trump and Duterte demonize journalists and cannot not handle criticisms against them for their actions and their characters. They are friendly and accommodating to those who sing praises for them and agree with almost everything they say and do. AND SO I hope Presidents Trump and Duterte will deeply discern about their attitudes toward the press, which in this day and age, also covers social media and the responsible expression of opinion of ordinary citizens. This is an important key to protecting and strengthening our democracies in the U.S. and back home in the Philippines. *** 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
Showing off the beauty of the Philippines
THE Miss Universe pageant that reels off in the Philippines this January and will culminate Street in the final selection of winners Talk in Metro Manila on January 30 is much more than just a contest among the world’s most beautiful women. It is a tug-of-war between two GreG B. MacaBenta starkly contrasting images of our beloved country. On one hand, there is the brewing picture of a “narco state” given to slaughtering anyone associated with drugs, whether drug lord or user or mere suspect. On the other hand, there is the portrait of a nation whose claim to beauty goes beyond female pulchritude. If beauty contests were among the events in the Olympics, our constantly frustrated yearning for a gold medal would have long been satisfied and the Philippines would be among the most bemedalled. Our country has won three Miss Universe titles (Gloria Diaz in 1969, Margie Moran in 1973, and the 2015 queen, Pia Wurtzbach), four Miss International crowns (Gemma Cruz in 1964, Aurora Pijuan in 1970, Melanie Marquez in 1979 and Precious Lara Quigaman in 2005), as well as one Miss
Supranational title won by Bea Rose Santiago in 2013. Additionally, no other country can claim to have won the hearts of the first Miss Universe, Finland’s Armi Kuusela (1952), and the first Miss International, Colombia’s Stella Marquez (1960). Both were swept off their feet and wed by dashing Pinoys soon after donning their crowns – Kuusela by Virgilio Hilario and Marquez by Jorge Araneta – and both became Metro Manila residents. But the beauty of the Philippines – aptly expressed by that classic Philippine Airlines advertising campaign, “The beauty of the Philippines, shining through” – deserves to shine through in more ways than via a revealing two-piece swimsuit or a glittering gown. The organizers of this year’s Miss Universe pageant are determined to do just that. Our beloved Filipinas (the country) can boast of beauty beyond its luscious lasses (of which we appear to have more than the normal quota among the nations), beyond scenic spots and historical landmarks,
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Learning from generational resilience in troubled times
SOMETIMES I look at the abyss we’re headed into and I Opinion shiver. Then I remember what my family has been through on both sides, and I know that we have been through worse and survived. In collecting the oral caroline Fan history of my 92 year old grandmother, I regret starting so late, for her memory is dimming. Consider the chances: on both sides, my grandparents fled China for Taiwan. Decades later, my parents migrated to America. This dual migration has led to many silences that ring through our family’s history and the loss of important historical documents. My paternal grandma (Nai Nai) was the only one from her village who was able to leave China before the Cultural Revolution. Ye Ye, my paternal grandfather, manned the flight controls on a plane for the Nationalist Army, and
even trained in the United States sometime between 1937-1945. They were placed into an arranged marriage early, and knew each other growing up. Nonetheless, it was a rare opportunity that my grandpa asked for her to join him. When my grandmother arrived at Chongqing for departure, it was a month before her name was called for one of the few planes to Taiwan. When I asked if she was scared, grandma laughed and said, “No, I always had a lot of courage. Even when my siblings didn’t want to go outside, I wanted to explore.” For a young woman, Nai Nai was able to attain some education, studying accounting. As a child, she and her sisters managed to escape foot binding because they were set to start school, and had to walk there, so her mom opted not to begin. Over
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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 21-24, 2017
Showing off the beauty of the Philippines PAGE A8 t
beyond exotic cuisine and shopping bargains, beyond being a consumer market of over 100 million waiting to be tapped, beyond hospitable, eversmiling people. Indeed, the beauty of the Philippines is an unmatched blending of all of these, a quality not easy to describe. I tried to do that in a speech at the 12th Asian Advertising Congress in Seoul, Korea. “Filipinos,” I said, “look like Malayans, Chinese, Americans and Europeans, pray in the Spanish manner, dine on Chinese food, watch American programs on Japanese-made TV sets – but deep down is a Filipino soul, unique and indomitable, that expresses what we are as a people.” Frankly, I may have confused the folks in the audience more than enlightened them. The beauty of the Philippines has to be experienced, not just seen. It has to be felt and then missed by overseas Filipinos like me and by foreign expatriates who, having been posted in our country and then assigned elsewhere invariably realize what they have lost. I understand that the schedule of the 86 contestants leading up to the final competition, includes events in key tourism spots, from Intramuros to Boracay, Vigan, Cebu, Baguio, Iloilo, Davao and Batangas. The final pageant and coronation will be staged at the SMX Convention Center at the Mall of Asia in Pasay City. These events and the final pageant will be telecast all over the world, a fantastic opportunity to showcase our tourism treasures. Hopefully, the scenic spots, smiles and laughter, the music, the cultural events, the testimonials and the positive media reports will neutralize the negative news that international media have been headlining of late. There should be extra interest value in this year’s pageant after the 2016 historic blooper committed
by emcee Steve Harvey, where he first named Miss Colombia as the winner, before he realized his mistake and called Pia Wurtzbach. Harvey is hosting the pageant again and, no matter how much he rehearses his lines, people will likely be watching out for a mistake. Needless to say, it costs a lot of money to stage a Miss Universe competition, some $15 million, I understand. In 1974, when the Philippines first hosted the pageant, President Ferdinand Marcos had just declared martial two years earlier and First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos could pretty much have anything she wanted from the country’s coffers. When the pageant was staged a second time in Manila, President Fidel V. Ramos had to contend with severe criticism for his government having to cover the budget shortfall. This year’s pageant is being paid for mainly by private sector funders, led by the LCS Group of Ilocos Sur’s Luis “Chavit” Singson, with the support of Okada Manila, Solar Entertainment, SM Lifestyle Entertainment Corporation, San Miguel Corporation and Philippine Airlines. Of course, the Department of Tourism has a stake in it, too, but it’s exposure is not that heavy. We owe these hardy entrepreneurs a debt of gratitude for risking their time, talent and treasure on an activity that is clearly beneficial to the country. This year’s Miss Philippines and contender for the Miss Universe crown is 25-year old Maxine Medina, a professional model and a graduate of the Philippine School of Interior Design and De la Salle-College of St. Benile. Oddsmakers believe she has a good chance of winning the title. But even if she doesn’t win, the Philippines will, hopefully, be a winner in the eyes of the world. Even if Steve Harvey commits another blooper. (gregmacabenta@hotmail.com)
Learning from generational… PAGE A8 t
the years, Nai Nai kept in touch with her family in China. Through missives, she learned that her parents and her brothers died of starvation. One younger sister remained by her first visit back in the 1980s. She had never expected the war and the distance to last for so long. While grandma was heartbroken she didn’t get to see her family together again, she is grateful for the life that she lived, and for all the experiences she enjoyed. Ye Ye was one of three sons, the only one to live and go to Taiwan, and then America. My father and mother were both born on the emerald isle of Formosa, a.k.a. Taiwan. Before my mom was born, my grandparents were set to give her up for adoption to elderly neighbors. She was the fourth child, it was wartime, and food was scarce. But when she was born, my Grandma decided my mom was too cute, and our biological family kept her. In the time that they grew up, Taiwan was subject to the longest stretch of martial law of any nation ever (42 years.) Mom met my dad in elementary school, and then they dated as young adults. After college, my dad’s professor asked him to assist with research in the United States. Much like my grandfather did, my father came to the US and then called for my mother to join him. It was in the United States that they settled and raised one child.
Two acts of love, spanning three different countries. If it had been for any of these experiences being different, or chance intruding, my life wouldn’t be what it is. So I am grateful to the generations that come before - to their strength and resilience, and I seek to preserve these memories for future generations. In recognition that they survived when so many didn’t, and of their nimble and enduring spirit, I vow to remain strong. The things that I have seen and experienced are dwarfed by the alignment of luck that it took for generations on both sides to hopscotch three countries. Our family story is and isn’t unique. Like most Asian American families, we came here after the 1965 Immigration and Naturalization Act, and we span three generations in the U.S. We are here by law and by policy, as teachers and doctors, as professionals and creatives, as people of faith and people on a journey, giving back to the country of our birth and adoption. To know history is to know yourself. We are here as free citizens, whose ancestors fought wars in search of freedom. No one can take that from us unless we let them. Caroline Fan is a writer and experienced advocate. She serves as Communications Director for the Asian American Action Fund, a Democratic political action committee. n
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JTFS rescues 2 Filipino hostages in Sulu
ported by two Abu Sayyaf members to the municipality of Parang. The two victims were then takTHE Philippine military’s Joint en to the JTFS headquarters in Task Force Sulu (JTFS) has res- Bus-bus, Jolo for medical checkcued two Filipino hostages from ups and a debriefing. They were the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) on later brought to the headquarters of the Western Mindanao ComThursday, January 19. The hostages, identified as mand for proper disposition. Almires and Janamjam said Dolcesimo Almires and Estaban Janamjam, were rescued around they were abducted along the 9:00 a.m. at Barangay Tagbak in seawaters of Pangutaran in Sulu by the group of Abu Sayyaf subIndanan, Sulu. The JTFS said it was able to free leader Jaber Susukan on October the hostages while being trans- 25, 2016. They said they were by Dana
SioSon AJPress
held captive since then in Barangay Lumapid, Talipao town. According to them, 23 more individuals were still penned by the ASG: a Dutch, a German, four Indonesians, five Malaysians, six Vietnamese and six Filipinos. Early this week, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo AĂąo disclosed that President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the decimation of terrorist groups in the country within six months, including the ASG. n
Dureza, ex-DOT chief told to return‌
PAGE A1 t COURTESY CALL. Senator Joel Villanueva, chairman of senate committee on labor, employment and human resources development, poses for a photo with the officers of the Public Employment Service Office Managers Association of the Philippines (PESOMAP), during a courtesy call at the Senate of the Philippines on Wednesday. During the call, Villanueva expressed gratitude to the PESOMAP for its innovative ways to connect jobseekers and employers all over the country. For their part, the PESOMAP officers shared their concerns on how they can better equip its managers and improve their skills to coordinate with employers. Senate photo
A new social contract for America‌
PAGE A8 t
Jan. 19, Trump spoke of the big margins of votes he received, 306 electoral votes and how the map of the United States has seen more red states than before, he claimed that places that have not seen red turned Republican. He said 16,000 border patrol agents voted for him and ICE voted him as well and “that they will make us safe.� He emphasized that his cabinet picks are the best and the brightest and they will all do “fantastic jobs,� and will make America great again. When Mike Pence introduced him, he described Donald Trump with vision and leadership to make America great again. Slogans after slogans are what we heard, including the election results with new information: the farmer that he appointed for the Secretary of Agriculture, Former Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue. Notice how the slogan was repeated by both Pres-Elect and Vice Pres-Elect. Though President Trump was being installed on January 20, it is not lost upon the nation that his opponent, Hillary Clinton, garnered close to 66 million votes, with a margin of 2.8 million votes. Trump’s illegitimacy is apparent, even if he received 63 million votes, given the reports of hacking by Russians from America’s intelligence agencies, and the electioneering conduct favoring Trump by FBI Director James Comey, in insinuating Hillary Clinton is being investigated for her emails, when in fact, he made vague assertions about a prior FBI report. Had the election landscape not been tampered with, barely 9 days before the election, the American public would have rallied in support of any 45th US President, Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump. But, the tampering, coupled with wounds Donald Trump created during the campaign: such as calling Filipinos terrorists, Mexicans as criminals, making fun of a disabled reporter, belittling all his opponents (which he bragged defeating 18 of them during his donor appreciation dinner) cannot all be dismissed and minimized. By the way, it is only now that mainstream media is reporting that Trump’s campaign derived two key issues of trade and immigration from lis-
tening to 1,000 hours of talk radio. Talk radio and television used to be regulated by a fairness doctrine, mandating the airing of opposing views on the topic, including alerting anyone subject to personal attack and giving them a chance to respond. Not anymore, since Pres. Ronald Reagan revoked the protections in 1987, making it easier for talk radio and television stations to spew opinions, angry commentaries and are no longer obliged to provide truth or evidence to support their statements. Mainstream media could no longer be distinguished from fringe purveyors of information. From garbage news being allowed, it is easier now to bury anyone in filth and the truth and facts have difficulty emerging above the “swamp of misinformation.� Hence, marches, rallies and social media become the forums to convey the truth about public’s sentiments. “Three hundred national and international sister marches will join forces with the Women’s March on Washington (WMW) DC rally on Jan 21 — the day after the U.S. Presidential Inauguration — spanning nearly 60 cities in 30 countries across six continents. As march day approaches, the WMW has set out four clear aims.� It is publicized as uniting around the values of HERS – which stands for health, economic security, representation and safety,� Huffington Post’s Vivienne Mayer reported on Jan. 13. Two days later, Catherine Pearson reported that 370 sister marches are being planned with an estimated attendance of 700,000. Meanwhile we witness what mainstream media describes as an orderly transfer of power when Donald Trump is sworn in as the 45th U.S. president. His inauguration is witnessed by the attendance of U.S. President Bill Clinton, Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, President Jimmy Carter and President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama and an estimated crowd of 800,000. May we all, Americans of all nationalities and ethnicities, be reminded by Booker Washington’s words on Sept. 18, 1895, in a speech he delivered to black and white Southerners:
sion and return the P1 million he disbursed to the employees of MEDCo. Dureza said he would shoulder the amount to be returned by MEDCo employees since they might not afford to pay. “As sole approving authority, I personally take full responsibility and spare the other employees/ officials from liability as ruled by COA. Although I already returned what I personally received myself while still at MEDCo years ago, I will promptly return the remaining total amount due from my own personal funds immediately upon my return to the country,� Dureza said. Dureza is currently in Rome attending the third round of peace talks with the National Democratic Front. He said he received the COA decision while attending the talks. “Sometime from 2001 to 2004, while chairman of MEDCo, the finance department recommended to me to release P456,000 as staple food assistance and P540,000 as amelioration allowance to officials and employees during the Christmas season or year-end, if my memory is correct. This was
to augment their meager pay and to give them incentives for a year’s good performance,� he said. Dureza said he asked the MEDCo officials if the allowance was proper and was assured this was OK. “Then I asked what would be the consequence if this was later disallowed by COA. I was told all the recipients had to return what they received. I was told this was communicated to the whole staff. In fact, I now recall I even directed the finance division to get a written undertaking from the employees that they would return the amount they received if later on required to do so. I am not sure though whether this was done,� Dureza said. Dureza said he was subsequently informed COA had disallowed the disbursements. “I promptly returned the amount I personally received. I even wrote an official letter in doing so and I received an official receipt acknowledging the return of the amount. But to further protect the employees and the staff who would find it difficult to return theirs, I authorized the move to seek reconsidera-
“There is no defense or security for any of us except in the highest intelligence and development of all. If anywhere there are efforts to curtail the fullest growth of the Negro, let these efforts be turned into stimulating, encouraging, and making him the most useful and intelligent citizen. Effort or means so invested will pay a thousand percent interest. These efforts will be twice blessed—’blessing him that gives and him that takes.’ There is no escape through law of man or God from the inevitable: – The laws of changeless justice bind – Oppressor with oppressed; – And close as sin and suffering joined – We march to fate abreast Nearly sixteen millions of hands will aid you in pulling the load upward; or they will pull against you the load downward.� California learned its lesson that to experience
tion of the COA ruling,� Dureza said. The audit body dismissed Dureza and his co-petitioners’ argument that the grant of allowances had the approval of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) regional office in Davao City through a memorandum issued in 2001. The COA said the CSC memorandum cannot be used by the petitioners as legal basis as the grant of food assistance and amelioration allowance “still constitutes a form of exemption from the Salary Standardization Law, which necessarily requires the approval of the DBM or the Office of the President.� The COA, however, granted the petitioners’ appeal not to hold the MEDCo employees liable for the return of the allowances, saying they were just “passive recipients� who took the grants in good faith. Aside from Dureza, the COA ordered MEDCo vice chair Eufemia Calderon, administration and finance director Corazon Ginete and administrative officer Perla Pandan to jointly return the P996,000 amount granted to them. (With Jose Rodel Clapano, Edith Regalado)
prosperity and to move forward beyond gridlock, it must resolve the tension of opposites towards state consensus. It is my prayer that Washington, D.C. learns its national governance lessons of bipartisanship and principled consensus as well. *** Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D. writes a weekly column for Asian Journal, called “Rhizomes.� She has been writing for AJ Press for 9 years now. She contributes to Balikbayan Magazine. Her training and experiences are in science, food technology, law and community volunteerism for 4 decades. She holds a B.S. degree from the University of the Philippines, a law degree from Whittier College School of Law in California and a certificate on 21st Century Leadership from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. She has been a participant in NVM Writing Workshops taught by Prof. Peter Bacho for 4 years and Prof. Russell Leong. She has travelled to France, Holland, Belgium, Japan, Mexico and 22 national parks in the US, in pursuit of her love for arts.
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A11
INTEGRATION PROGRAM
Dole appeals to OFWS to come back, teach in PH by Julie
m. aurelio Inquirer.net
The Department of labor and employment on Friday appealed to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are licensed teachers to return to the country and practice their profession as public school teachers. The labor department’s appeal is in line with the Dole’s OFW reintegration program called “Sa ’Pinas, ikaw ang Ma’am/Sir,” which allows OFWs who passed the licensure examination for Teachers to apply and be employed by the Department of education (Deped) as teachers. “We aim to provide decent and sustainable work for returning OFWs as public school teachers,” labor Secretary Silvestre Bello iii said The program will cover OFWs
who returned to the Philippines in the last three years and had teaching experience in the past five years. Those who have no teaching experience at all, or those whose teaching experience was interrupted for more than past five years, will undergo an online refresher course. Those interested may check www.nrco.dole.gov.ph, while online application forms are available at http://tiny.cc/ofwletpassers. The DOle’s national Reintegration Center for OFWs implements the program with the Deped, Professional Regulation Commission, Commission on higher education, Technical education and Skills Development Authority and the Philippine normal University. Bello noted that the OFW reintegration program has been
a good source of public school teachers for the Deped. “it has helped ease the country’s insufficient supply of public school teachers especially in the provinces and remote areas,” he said. The program has also reunited several OFW families after years of separation. The labor secretary pointed out that 19 OFWs who were licensed teachers have been employed by different public schools in Central Visayas. The former OFWs used to work as teachers and household service workers in Thailand, hong Kong, China, Singapore, United Arab emirates and Turkey. They were hired for permanent positions with a Teacher 1 or Salary Grade 11 rank after having complied with all the requirements. n
Pope Francis receives Duterte’s thank-you letter by Dana
SioSon AJPress
PhiliPPine President Rodrigo Duterte has personally written Pope Francis a letter to express his gratitude to the Pontiff for visiting the country in 2015. According to the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay personally handed Duterte’s letter to Pope Francis on Wednesday, January 18. “Our countrymen remember your holiness’ apostolic visit in 2015 with deep appreciation, knowing that it was made with the most sincere regard for the welfare of the Church’s flock,” Duterte said in his letter addressed to the pope. “The Philippines values its special relations with the holy See and regards with gratitude your holiness’ gracious stewardship of the Catholic faith,” it further read. Duterte also expressed his high respect for the Pontiff. Quoting the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Presidential Adviser on Peace Process Jesus Dureza said that the pope has blessed the Philippines and Duterte. “i said, ‘Bless the Philippines, your holiness.’ Pope Francis [said], ‘i will also bless your president,’” Dureza shared on his Facebook account.
AMENDING THE REVISED PENAL CODE. Senate President Pro Tempore Franklin M. Drilon, chair of the Senate Committee on Constitutional Amendments and Revision of Codes, discusses a proposal which aims to adjust the threshold amounts used in determining the criminal liability for various crimes and the amount of imposable fines under the Revised Penal Code which was enacted in 1930. “What we are doing is to revise the Revised Penal Code so it will not constitute a cruel punishment. The injustice today is that the values of the property upon which the penalty is based is circa 1930’s. The P250 in 1930 is still the P250 today that will expose you to a penalty of, say, six years. We will now find out by how much we will raise the P250 so it is commensurate to the penalty that is impose. We can multiply the P250 by, say, 200 times,” Drilon said. Also in photo is Senator Leila de Lima. Senate photo by Cesar Tomambo
SAF 44 suit vs Purisima et al. to go on trial by Kimberlie
QuitaSol Inquirer.net
lA TRiniDAD, BenGUeT— They are not protected by the legal principle that the state cannot be sued. With this statement, a court here rejected a petition to dismiss a P12-million damage suit against former PnP Director General Alan Purisima, retired Police Director Getulio napeñas Pope Francis welcomes chief government peace negotiator Jesus Dureza at the Vatican on and three Army officials in conJan. 18, 2017. Photo from the Facebook page of Mr. Dureza nection with the police operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao Dureza and other Philip- ing World Apostolic Congress on province, on Jan. 25, 2015, that pine government delegates are Mercy (WACOM 4) delegates to killed 44 Special Action Force in Rome for the third round of continue on searching and shar- commandos. peace talks with the national ing God’s mercy. Purisima and his codefendants “Carry on seeking and finding asked the Benguet Regional Trial Democratic Front of the Philippines, which is slated from Janu- new ways to express God’s mer- Court to dismiss the case filed by cy,” the church leader said in his the widow and parents of Senior ary 19 to 25. in 2015, then-presidential can- message. insp. Getnad Tabdi, asserting that The pope’s message was read they were covered by a constitudidate Duterte made headlines after reportedly cursing the pope by Papal legate Archbishop tional provision preventing anyfor causing heavy traffic during Philippe Cardinal Barbarin dur- one from suing the government. his papal visit. Duterte later clari- ing a mass held at the UniverTabdi was among the 44 SAF fied that the curse was directed sity of Santo Tomas in Manila on members killed by armed miliat the government’s traffic man- Tuesday evening, January 17. tants in Mamasapano. The WACOM is an internationagement. he later sent an apolPurisima, napeñas, lt. Gen. al gathering of devotees of the Rustico Guerrero, Maj. Gen. ogy to the Vatican. earlier this week, Pope Francis Divine Mercy which is held every edmundo Pangilinan and Col. sent a message to Manila, urg- three years. n Gener del Rosario argued in
their separate motions that they performed their official functions as agents of the state when they oversaw the operation to arrest a suspected terrorist, Malaysian Zulkifli bin hir, also known as Marwan. They were referring to Section 3, Article XVi of the 1987 Constitution, which said that the state “may not be sued without its consent.” This is also called the doctrine of sovereign immunity. But in a Dec. 19, 2016 order released only last week, Judge Danilo Camacho of RTC Branch 62 said “the defendants cannot hide behind [this legal principle] for their sloppy and neglectful performance of duty as government officials.” “Government officials and employees are accountable for their actions as such under the principle that the public office is a public trust,” Camacho said in his order. Tabdi’s widow, leah Tabdi, and his parents, Garcia and edna Tabdi, accused the five men of negligence that led to the commandos’ death. They said napeñas, the SAF commander, had allegedly bro-
ken the chain of command by reporting to Purisima, a former PnP chief, in the course of the operation, instead of Deputy Director General leonardo espina, then acting PnP chief. Purisima was serving a sixmonth suspension at the time but offered to coordinate the operation with the military. The Tabdi family said Purisima failed to coordinate artillery support that would have saved their son and the 43 other SAF members. They sued the military officers for allegedly failing to act and rescue the policemen. Pangilinan was the commander of the 8th infantry Division, Guerrero was area commander of the Western Mindanao Command and Del Rosario was the brigade commander of the 1st Mechanized infantry Brigade. Purisima and napeñas claimed that the complaint had “no cause of action” and was premature because of pending investigations when it was filed. napeñas also said the complainants failed to exhaust all “available administrative remedies.” n
A12 JANUARY 21-24, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
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SHOWBIZ&STYLE
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Journal Tom Rodriguez leaves Miss U candidates bring smiles to young cleft patients for extended US-stay by lhAr
sAntiAgo ManilaTimes.net
TOP prime time actor Tom Rodriguez left for a California-bound flight, along with fellow GMA Network stars Dennis Trillo, Lovi Poe, Betong and Alden Richards, to do a concert for GMA Pinoy TV. Titled “Sikat Ka Kapuso,� the show will be held at the Terrace Theater in Long Beach on January 22. Incidentally, Jennylyn Mercado, who is also a concert headliner will leave Saturday, Jan. 21 as she has to finish several scenes for her upcoming adaptation of the Korean hit series, “My Love From The Stars.� Going back to Tom, who sat down with Showbuzz during rehearsals for “Sikat Ka Kapuso,� he is staying behind in the US after the show. “My family will watch the concert, and right after the performance, I will drive with them to Arizona where our house is. I will stay there a little longer to take of my dad who is sick,� he explained. Tom’s father, unfortunately, is suffering from cancer of the lungs. “He was supposed to have been cancer-free after he was operated on last year, but before Christmas, they found out that the cancer was back. This time, it’s the type of cancer that is more aggressive. He doesn’t want to undergo chemotherapy anymore. Nahihirapan siya talaga, so now, we will try non-traditional medicine.� It’s good that Tom has just finished his soap “Someone To Watch Over Me,� which means he will not be busy yet for at least a couple of months. He has informed GMA executives of his extended stay in Arizona for time being but promised he will be back if the network already needs him. He is also thankful to have a very understanding girlfriend in Carla during this difficult time. “She is always there to support me,� Tom shared. “When I told
Tom Rodriguez
her I would like to spend more time with my dad and my family, she readily said yes. She also has a very good relationship with all the members of my family.� Tom spent the holidays with Carla in Arizona just last December. “My family just adores Carla. Of course they know her already but it was the first time Carla spent a great deal of time with them. Christmas season pa ‘yun so the atmosphere was so happy. They really love her because she’s really easy to get along with. I didn’t have any trouble entertaining her while we were in Arizona because she was always with my family, and she really enjoyed being with PAGE B3
by Arlo
Custodio ManilaTimes.net
EIGHT of the 86 Miss Universe 2016 candidates Manila visited young cleft patients at Our Lady of Peace Hospital in Paraùaque City on Thursday, Jan. 19 spending time with the newly operated patients who received free corrective surgery from international charity organization Smile Train. From the hospital, Misses USA, Colombia, Indonesia, Great Britain, Germany, Argentina, Vietnam and Brazil later joined other beauties—Myanmar, China, US Virgin Islands, Nigeria, Mexico, India, Tanzania, Haiti and Dominican Republic—for empowerment workshops with healed cleft patients at the Conrad Manila Hotel in Pasay City. According to organizers, the candidates chosen for this activity have been personally involved in Smile Train projects in their respective countries. Reigning Miss Unvierse Pia Wurtzbach joined the hospital visit reportedly begging off form a trip to Coron, Palawan in favor of the charitable activity. Like the candidates with her she had also participated in Smile Train charities in the past. Speaking on behalf of Wurtzbach and the Miss Universe candidates, pageant organization president Paula Shugart thanked Smile Train and sponsor Philippine Airlines for reaching far and wide the Philippines’ 7,100 islands to help children with cleft
palates. Meanwhile, in an interview with The Manila Times, Smile Train International Vice President for Development Troy Reinhart said that their partnership with Miss Universe made it easier for them to approach corporate sponsors to fund their advocacy. Smile Train has already helped around 45,000 patients in the Philippines and 1.3 million worldwide. One of them is 19-year-old Cherry, who joined the event and expressed that she now feels empowered and confidently beautiful because of her successful surgery and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to mingle with Miss Miss Universe 2016 candidates and Smile Train beneficiaries express love for the opportunity Universe candidates. of being together. ManilaTimes.net photo
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B January 21-24, 2017 • La WEEKEnD aSIan JOurnaL
Features
Camille Prats gets married twice on same day by Ricky lo
Moonlighting by Mylah
Philstar.covm
WHen camille Prats woke up on the morning of her wedding to VJ Yambao, she wore a simple white dress, donned a handmade flower crown and hurried to the church in her tsinelas. They had to rush back to their hotel room to look for a more church-appropriate footwear. At 8 o’clock, camille was fresh-faced, clutching a simple bouquet made of lilies of the valley when she walked down the aisle of the nuestra Señora dela Paz y Buenviaje Parish church to meet (again!) VJ who was wearing a white polo button-down shirt and khaki pants ensemble. In less than an hour and with less than 20 people as witnesses, they were declared husband and wife, shared their first kiss as a married couple, and then went their separate ways to prepare for their second wedding in the afternoon of the same day, this time during the reception. Their decision to have two weddings (one simple and one grand) was, according to a guest, “the couple’s way of putting God in the center of their marriage, while being able to celebrate their love in the way that they have always envisioned.” VJ, a businessman, was camille’s grade school classmate who has migrated to the States. He popped the question in July of 2015 but camille already had the date 1-7-2017 in mind long before he asked for her hand in marriage. “1717” was an
de
Now Mrs. VJ Yambao, Camille Prats and her son Nathan (from her first marriage) are convinced that, yes, there is forever.
auspicious date, so auspicious in fact, that when camille booked with event stylist Gideon Hermosa, he had three other bookings and four inquiries for that same day. So Gideon it would be. Venue of the event was the Pratsowned nayomi Sanctuary Resort in Batangas. camille and VJ kept the guest list short and sweet, with just about 150 guests. “We really made sure that it’s going to be a small gathering,” said camille. “Mas madali i-manage, plus we wanted to make sure that we are able to go around and say hi to everyone. We wanted to share our joy with them. So we narrowed it down to the people we were closest to, those we have a deep relationship with.” While camille and VJ’s renewal of vows was a happy and tearyeyed event, the reception was a rip-roaring fun time. While the guests enjoyed the delicious food
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from Juan carlos catering (another family friend of camille’s), they were entertained by the hosts of the night, camille’s best friend Ginger Serranilla, her Mars co-host Suzi Abrera, and her Kuya John. “Lahat ng bala niya sa Banana Sundae, talagang nilabas niya lahat!,” recalled another guest, referring to John’s Kapamilya show. The party lasted until almost midnight. It’s lovelier-the-second-timearound thing for camille, widowed by the untimely death of her first husband, Anthony Linsangan, by whom she has a son, nathan. As she shared during her bridal shower hosted by Goody Philippines a few weeks back, VJ coming into her life was not only an unexpected turn of events in her life, but an answered prayer as well. “I felt that nathan was longing for a father. But not having a father doesn’t make you less of a person. That’s what I always wanted him to feel. I told him that he can always share stories about his nong nong (John) who I always tell him is his second dad.” When VJ came along, nathan was around five years old. camille asked nathan if he liked VJ and if he could be part of their family. Said camille, “Being in a relationship doesn’t mean that it’s only me, eh. Kung ako, nakaka-move on, baka ang anak ko hindi. I don’t want him to grow up thinking that people always leave, that nothing is ever permanent. So kaya I really made sure that VJ and I were really in a stable relationship way before we went into putting nathan on board.” After a few days, nathan came to camille and said he was okay with it. “I told him that we could only choose one, we cannot choose any other person anymore. ‘If you choose Tito VJ, it’s him na forever.’” And it seems that, indeed, camille and nathan have found forever in VJ.
age gracefully
SWEET POTATOES: Get Their Just Desserts
leon
Once upon a time, there was a press club in the heart of a city where everyone lived in harmony. Photographers and writers were affable and comrades among themselves. They had a clubhouse in the midst of a hill — oh, so magnificent, almost celestial but not fancy or exclusive. It was famous for its abundance of camaraderie and the glorious togetherness they all shared. There is a pond so still below, that the trees reflected in it seems. The beauty is painted in its depth — so quiet, clean and peaceful. They savored the pageant of the seasons. In spring, white clouds of blossoms drifted about it, above the green fields. In autumn, the oak, maple and birch set up a blaze of color that flamed and flickered across a backdrop of pines. Half-hidden in the mists of fall mornings are deers silently crossing the fields. In Winter, the roadside were places of sublime beauty. Birds came to feed on the berries and seed heads of dried weeds rising above the snow. Here, a captious tribe, imaginers by trade and weavers of tales, would gather, write their stories, dash out poetry and push their pens in a gentle libation, their muses in abundance. It was a work world for a pool of photographers, safe in their regressive sanctuary of male supremacy where one’s expectation far succeeds their accomplishments. It is hard to find the right words to describe their photographs. It is intangible but it is there. Beautiful. courageous, Tender. Vigorous. Joyful and mysterious. You read and weep, but a
Once upon a press club
picture is worth a thousand words. Breaking molds, going beyond boundaries as their craft rolls up graphic details in one coherent whole. The camera is more vicious than the pen. It can turn blood to smoke as it ignores conventions. The photographers carried out a dedication to their craft that goes beyond and transcends the littleness that separates the men from the boys. They can see what everybody can see but not in the way they saw it. For the writers, some stories were without cosmic conclusions. Others write with the principle of ordinary telling — plain speech, others with images. Fables, echo, irony, certain obliqueness, double meanings. But through it all, the literati and hardcore news writers are kindred spirits, just as the photographers were, in their pursuit of beauty, truth and justice. It was inspiration, the kidnapper of reason. The women did not pick on each other, the way one picked berries. They were harmonic. The men were always true to form, in their primal capacity for gentlemanliness, friendship and honor. They made the difference. It was supreme. coleridge, a century and a half ago, had written, “A woman’s friendship borders more closely on love than man’s. Men affect each others in the reflection of noble or friendly acts, whilst women ask fewer proofs and more signs that are expressions of attachment.” In their clubhouse, they never had to show off. Though together, as true friends, some tried to keep the worst from each other. Some seek approval, some seek acceptance. The heartwarming truth was the men had been trained in restraint. no chip in sensibilities but considerate of each other’s judgement. Above all, as true friends and colleagues, they faced adversity together. What could be
more true, good and beautiful? They were admired, heard even from far away places. collectively, these photographers and writers could shake and torch the earth! Then a strange blight crept over the clubhouse and over the area surrounding it. everything began to change, like a mysterious spell had settled. Suddenly, there was a strange stillness. The mornings that once throbbed with dawn’s chorus of robins, catbirds, doves and nightingales; were suddenly quiet. There was no sound — there was just deafening silence. The gaiety and merriment inside the clubhouse vanished. Where have they gone? Many people spoke of the poets, writers, news harbingers, especially the marvelous photographers, puzzled and disturbed. Suddenly, there was only strange stillness. It was Spring without voices. As though swept by wildfire, the once so attractive were now lined with brown and withered vegetation. The green flowering was now nothing but heaps of rotting leaves, silent and deserted by living things. no enemy action nor witchcraft had silenced the rebirth of a new life in the clubhouse. The fourth estate had done it themselves. This press club does not actually exist. But it might easily have a dozen counterparts, here or elsewhere in the world. I know of no press club nor press photographers club that has experience the tragedy I have described. Yet every one of these lapses had actually happened somewhere and many real press clubs have suffered. A grim specter has crept upon us, almost unnoticed and this imagined tragedy(?) may easily become a stark reality in Medialand. We all shall know — with shrinkage of the heart and the soul in escrow.
Half-Filipina Miss New Zealand comes home to Baguio by aRteMio
duMlao Philstar.com
BAGUIO cITY – new Zealand’s bet—half Filipina Tanya Dawson—together with her Filipino mother, family, friends, and supporters from San Vicente in Sta Maria town in Pangasinan, lined up the streets of Baguio city during the Panagbenga Flower Festival yesterday to support her. The 24-year-old beauty’s mother, Margarita Palabay Pelenda, 54, who came back to the country and the city, described Tanya as kind, industrious, and smart. “As a child, Tanya,” she narrated, was not the kind of girl that is going to show business. She liked farming, Pelenda said, since their family, back in new Zealand, owns a huge farm. But as Tanya grew up, her mom saw her potential to become a beauty queen. “I encouraged her to join beauty contests because she’s beautiful and she will make it.” In 2014, Tanya was named Miss Teen Universe. She was also a su-
Miss New Zealand Tanya Dawson is half-Filipina and traces her roots to Baguio City and Pangasinan. Philstar.com photo by Artemio Dumlao
permodel in new Zealand. She was crowned Miss new Zealand Universe in 2016. She is also into film, being a theater teacher by profession. “It’s God’s best blessing to her,” Margarita said, as she brandished a tarpaulin of her girl’s photograph at Burnham Park in
2012. Actually, she confided, she met Tanya’s father in Baguio city. “We’re very proud of her,” said Mayor Domogan of the very rare occasion of hosting Miss Universe bets, including Miss new Zealand, who traces her roots to Baguio city and Pangasinan.
Welcome back, Dayanara! by Boy
aBunda Philstar.com
A staple during the fall and winter months, sweet potatoes owe their bright orange color to the carotenoid, beta-carotene. Beta carotene is an antioxidant that can ward off free radicals that damage cells through oxidation, contributing to the aging process. Sweet potatoes are also a good source of heart-healthy potassium as well as containing phytochemicals such as quercetin, a strong anti-inflammatory. They are delicious just baked in the oven, but I also like to include them in dessert. I make a Sweet Potato and Jackfruit Delight for a delicious and nutritious alternative containing jackfruit, which is plentiful in Southeast Asia; coconut milk, which hydrates the skin and helps keep it elastic; and sweet potatoes, which also deliver a big dose of fiber and beta carotene. This dessert is very popular in Asia. Jackfruit, one of the world’s largest tree fruits, is very high in antioxidants and has a mild tropical taste. Coconut milk helps hydrate the skin and keep it elastic. Sweet potatoes are packed with carotenoids and potassium.
Serves 6–8 Ingredients ¼ cup tapioca 2 cups water 1 can (8 oz.) jackfruit, drained of syrup 4 cups coconut milk 1 lb. peeled and cubed yellow and orange sweet potatoes ¼ cup sugar
1. Place the tapioca in cold water in a medium saucepan and slowly bring to a boil. Cook over medium-high heat until tapioca is translucent and soft, about 1–3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. 2. Cut the jackfruit into strips and set aside. 3. In a medium saucepan, bring the coconut milk to a boil. Add the sweet potatoes and boil until tender, about 5–10 minutes. 4. Add the jackfruit, sugar, and tapioca to the sweet potato mixture and cook an additional 5 minutes. 5. Serve warm or chilled.
© 2016 by FoodTrients.com
BY GRACE O
Sweet Potato and Jackfruit Delight
GRACE O – Combining her passion for food and a commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle, GRACE O has created FoodTrients®, a unique program for optimizing wellness and longevity. Grace O is a fusion chef and award-winning cookbook author with a mission: to introduce delicious recipes built on a foundation of anti-aging science and her 20 years in the healthcare industry. Visit FoodTrients.com to learn more. Email us at info@FoodTrients.com
We Filipinos love beauty queens, and 1993 Miss Universe Dayanara Torres is the classic example. When she won the coveted crown, we joined her fellow Puerto Ricans in cheering for the beautiful señorita who stole our hearts with her movie appearances, dancing and hosting skills. The then 19-year-old star also won the heart of her leading man, Aga Muhlach (now happily married to another beauty queen, charlene Gonzales). How time flies! Dayanara returned to Puerto Rico in 1998 to continue her singing career, recorded Antifaz, which topped Billboard charts in her country and the Philippines, and met her husband (now her ex), Marc Anthony. Dayanara also topbilled stage productions, and her Dayanara doll sold like the proverbial hotcakes in the Philippines and Puerto Rico. When she got married, Dayarana moved to new York city, where she gave birth to cristian Anthony, 15 and Ryan Anthony, 13. When the union ended in divorce, she and her sons transferred to Los Angeles, which is now their home base. The former beauty queen, now 42, considers herself lucky for getting work opportunities that don’t take her away from her boys. She worked with the soap opera “The Young & the Restless,” played the lead in My network TV/ Fox’s “Watch Over Me” and starred in a few movies. But before she’s an actress and
1993 Miss Universe Dayanara Torres has decided to return to the Philippines at a time many Filipinos are going gaga over the 65th Miss Universe contest.
celebrity, Dayanara is a mom. “I’ve been mostly committed to raise my boys, and I dedicate my life to them. Priorities change when you become a mother. That is why my principal role has always been to be a mom first,” the single mom smiles. The boys are older and on their own, however. So, Dayanara decided it’s time she picks up the pieces of her career. call it fate. call it coincidence. But when she met Gary Valenciano (himself part-Puerto Rican, courtesy of his mom Grimilda) and his wife Angeli in Los Angeles late last year, Dayanara jumped at the chance to reconnect with her Filipino fans. Her sons are excited for her comeback and are even proud of their mom, who can balance career and motherhood like a pro. She asked Angeli to manage her again and decided to return to the Philippines at a time many
of us in this pageant-crazy country are going gaga over the 65th Miss Universe contest. “It’s the perfect time to get back to the country I love so much and keep very dear to my heart. I knew I had to be there,” says Dayanara. no one knows how a Miss Universe bet — and titleholder — feels like Dayanara does. She knows the tense days and nights, the endless rehearsals and pictorials, the nerve-wracking schedule. But she also knows that all these can lead to that victory walk with the glittery crown on her head and the Miss Universe sash around her waist. Her advice to this year’s candidates: “Be confident and show your personality! It is a beauty pageant, but it is not judged only on that. confidence will get you much further than what physical beauty will ever get you to.” Dayanara knows some girls are absolutely stunning. But the more important thing — the key to the crown — is not so much how they look, but what they are inside. It’s confidence and personality that will win the day. “It will sweep the judges away every time!” Dayanara vows. This confidently beautiful lady is bent on making up for lost time. She’s wiser, more experienced. She has a treasure trove of emotions to give her acting — be it in the movies, on TV and theater — more depth. Just as important, Dayanara still remembers her Tagalog, which she learned to speak and understand the first time she stayed in the Philippines. Welcome back, Dayanara!
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Features
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 21-24, 2017
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The three-legged frog By Sean
Shono
THE three-legged frog or the fortune toad symbolizes an increase in money, especially a significant effect on business development. It rakes money
in with its two forelegs and prevents it from slipping away with its hind leg. At your store or office Place it at the entrance. Before opening the store or starting work, place its face toward
the outside. Place it facing the inside after work, appreciating for its day-long work. At your house or room When going out, place its face toward the outside and toward the inside upon your return. Secret further enhancement In addition, putting lots of Feng Shui old coins under the frog will increase its power, resulting in more economic and fortune luck. The master of the threelegged frog is a legendary god. Saying the name of his master, “Ryukaisento,” will make it spill out all the fortune it has saved. Dragon God offers specially treated and purified Feng Shui items with MIRACULOUS power. Ask a Feng Shui master how to use them. *** Feng Shui master Sean Shono owns Dragon God, a Feng Shui store in Gardena, California. He is the U.S. Chief of the International Feng Shui Association. For more information, please call Sean Shono at (310) 787-1891. Dragon God is located at 1580 W. Artesia SQ. Suite A, Gardena, CA 90248.
Filipino Americans’ sentiments on Trump’s inauguration & why they march Programming for Kababayan Today, January 23-27, 2017
The Global Kababayan G. TönGi THIS Saturday, January 21, I alongside millions will take to the streets to march in solidarity in response to the inauguration of donald J. Trump as the 45th president of the United States. I feel it is very important for our kababayans to understand why it is important for us as a community to be part of the Women’s March. I have asked several people in the Filipino-American community to share why they too will be marching. If you will be joining the marches, either in Los Angeles of Washington d.C., please make sure to tag #WhyIMarch on all your social media feeds to share the impact of our voices, during this historic time in our lives. This is how we can begin to understand that our feelings of fear and uncertainty are legitimate as we fight for others that may not have the tools or the opportunity
Monday, January 23 - dr. Camilla Griggers talks about alternative oral health, which may contribute to our overall health. Tuesday, January 24 - Let’s take a look back to last year when we had an exclusive interview with Miss Universe 2015, Pia Wurtzbach. Wednesday, January 25 - The Asian Journal shares latest the headlines relevant to the Fil-Am community. New York-based Fil-Am singer Eric G. also joins the show. Check out the Filipino sentiments at the Women’s March in Los Angeles Thursday, January 26 - We continue our look back on Kababayan Today’s exclusive interview with Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach. Friday, January 27 - As January 2017 comes to a close, let’s get to know Marco Antonio, a former breakdancer-turned-yoga instructor to inspire you to stretch. do the demo at home, too!
AFTER 13 YEARS OF WAITING FOR THE FAMILY TO BE REUNITED, THE U.S. EMBASSY STILL DENIED THE RELEASE OF THEIR VISAS. MISERY AND REDEMPTION ON A BRAND NEW EPISODE OF CITIZEN PINOY! Tatay Lando (2nd from right) went to the US to provide a better life for his family. After 13 years, the petition became current in 2016. However, when his son, Allan (left), and his grandson, Chean (2nd from right) went to the U.S. Embassy for their interview, some doubtful details came up in Allanís paperwork that caused the Embassy to deny their visas. Father and son left the Embassy heartbroken and traumatized over the incident. Immediately, Tatay Lando sought the help of leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel. Watch how hope was renewed, and a family was happily reunited after many, many years on a brand-new episode of ‘Citizen Pinoy’ on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC.
Will their dream of a family reunion turn into a nightmare? See how the story ends on ‘Citizen Pinoy’! WHEN Tatay Lando had the chance to go to the US to create a better life for his family, he took it. He faced the separation as a necessary evil, in order to give them a brighter future. After a very long wait, the petition for his son Allan, and grandson Chean, became current. But things did not pan out well at the U.S. Embassy. After nearly four hours of
being passed around from window to window, father and son were told they could leave without giving them the visas they dreamt of for so long. Chean was disappointed. Allan was traumatized. And their parents in the U.S. were brokenhearted. But Tatay Lando did not give up so easily. The older Cruz immediately went to seek the help of leading US immigration
attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel, who went to work on preparing all necessary documents in a properly packaged and properly presented manner. Watch how what could have been a nightmare turned into a dream come true on a brandnew episode of ‘Citizen Pinoy’ –– on Sunday 6:15 pm PST/ EST (9:15 pm EST thru select Cable/Satellite providers). (Advertising Supplement)
Therese Malvar: Child actress no more by Ricky
caldeRon ManilaTimes.net
AWARd-WINNING actress Therese Malvar is already 16 years old, but sometimes people still think of her a child actress by mistake. It’s probably because of her lean frame that makes her look much younger for her for age; but one thing’s for sure—the roles she plays are hardly kid’s stuff. Therese was only 13 when she won the Cine Filipino Best Actress award for “Ang Huling Cha-Cha ni Anita,” beating seasoned actress Nora Aunor. She was also Cinema One Original’s Best Actress for Ralston Jover’s Hamog for 2015. The same movie also won for her the Moscow International Film
Festival Best Actress award as well as the Screen International Rising Star Award from the New York Asian Film Festival. does she feel the pressure of being a multi-awarded actress as she continues to pursue her showbiz career? “I am very thankful to my directors for choosing me for their projects but I must admit I am feeling the pressure. People look up to me as someone who is good in what I do, but if I make a mistake, they might look at me differently. I must say I feel so much pressure and that makes me feel insecure at times,” said Therese at the press conference of her latest movie “Ilawod” Therese Malvar PAGE B4
Carol Ojeda Kimbrough
Gerlie Collado
to make their voices heard. Gerlie Collado-Project Manager of The Pasadena Playhouse If there is one important aspect of President Barack Obama’s legacy that sticks out to me, it’s his adamant belief in the power of hope, and America’s citizens to organize to ensure that our country is just and equitable for all. On Saturday, I’m standing with hundreds and thousands of women and supporters across the nation by participating in the Women’s March in downtown Los Angeles. It’s my way of publicly affirming that women’s rights are human rights; that immigrants
Tina Bulchand
I support the Women’s March because now more than ever going back to basics of how to “be” …Aware, Engaged, Involved, Open, Understanding...is needed Ave Jacinto to ensure we remain on the path and everyone who stands to to equality, justice and empathy be marginalized by the incom- for all people. There is a lot more ing presidential administration ground to cover, and we need deserves dignity; and that no to make certain this upcoming community should remain silent administration is accountable and in the face of discrimination and represent ALL people. ignorance. Tina Bulchand- Interim ExAve Jacinto- Kayamanan Ng ecutive Director FilAm Arts Lahi Philippine Folk Dance CoI think it’s important to be inFounder PAGE B5
Gerald Anderson on his new ‘sportserye’ and first marathon
Tom Rodriguez leaves... PAGE B1
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with them.” them. Nakakatawa nga kasi ang With a clearly solid relationship, nangyari, si Carla with my family Tom is often asked if he and Carla na ang lumalakad at ako na ang are already talking marriage. To naiiwan. She’s really comfortable this, the actor has always given a
standard answer: “Getting there, that’s what I always say to those who ask. Carla and I, of course we talk about it in passing, but there is really nothing to talk about yet. I want to focus first on taking care of my dad before I make plans to settling down.”
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“IT’S not just a teleserye time project with ex-girlfriend – it has a cause,” actor Gerald Kim Chiu, “Ikaw Lang Ang Anderson said of his new prime Iibigin”. In the soap opera, Gerald and Kim will be back on screen with their “Tayong dalawa” co-star, Jake Cuenca. Adding color to the drama is Coleen Garcia. The four will play triathletes from different walks of life. The soap opera, Gerald explained, is not just a typical love story, but is arguably the country’s first “sportserye” that aims to encourage viewers to embrace a healthier lifestyle. “It’s exciting to team up with Gerald Anderson got a tan after staying more outdoors as he now trains to become this Kim again,” he declared. “We’re year’s Philippine representative to the LA not here just to make people fall Marathon. Philstar.com photo in love or cry. We also want to
inspire.” Gerald and Kim have paired in many projects before, but “Ikaw Lang Ang Iibign” is the first time that they would push sports and healthy lifestyle. There is a lot of running in the series, and because of this project, Gerald has discovered the joys of running as a sport. Before, he thought running was boring since race tracks are usually long and monotonous. But once he got into it, he learned to love it because whenever he runs, he has time to think about his dreams and status in life. “Now, running has become a therapy. I now like it more than biking and swimming, and sometimes, even more PAGE B4
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Superbug kills lady Alarming news, warning to all
PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS “PUBLIC health officials from Nevada are reporting on a case of a woman who died in Reno in September from an incurable infection. Testing showed the superbug that had spread throughout her system could fend off 26 different antibiotics.” “It was tested against everything that’s available in the United States … and was not effective,” said Dr. Alexander Kallen, a medical officer in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s division of health care quality promotion. We have written about superbugs in this column before, and this recent scary news from last week highlights the utter helplessness of all living creatures on earth if drug resistant microorganisms (superbugs) are not eradicated from this world. Or, at least countered by the discovery of a cure against them. Medically, superbugs could wipe out our civilization if they become widespread and remain incurable, like what happened to the lady in Reno. Let me take you back in time and space. Since Sir Alexander Fleming, a Scottish biologist, pharmacologist, and botanist (a 1945 Nobel laureate), first discovered penicillin in 1923, hundreds of more potent wider spectrum antibiotics have been added to the medical armamentarium. These life-saving drugs have been a boon to medical care and benefited billions of patients around the globe. However, like many good things, antibiotics have been abused by society as a whole, including the medical community. In many cases, they are prescribed without strict medical justification or used for a protracted period, longer than necessary. Individuals who are able to buy them over the counter without prescription use them ignorantly and unnecessarily, without medical rationale. Besides wasting money, they are endangering their health and well-being, and those of others, and encouraging the development of mutation of today’s microbes into superbugs. The “Transformer” bugs Since bacteria have the ability to adapt to substances being repeatedly used against them and mutate (transform itself) overtime to a resistant variety in order to
survive, medically resistant strains of the micro-organisms soon develop. They are called superbugs, potential killers which would not respond to any antibiotics at all. When this happens, humans and other animals would be under the mercy of these superbugs. Medically, we would be transported back to the pre-antibiotic era, where simple wound infections of the hand, arm, or leg could lead to amputation or death, where easy-to-treat bacterial pneumonia or gastrointestinal infections of today could be a frequent killer once more. Indeed, it is scary to imagine a world with a pandemic of superbugs, without effective antibiotics. People will be dying like flies, especially today when bacteria appear to be more virulent and more adaptive. Superbugs are here But this is not science fiction. Today, we already have some superbugs, as the death of the woman from Reno has proven. One of them is the medically resistant tubercle bacilli, where the standard anti-TB regimen is no longer effective and where survival is more of an exception. The more popular one is MRSA a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, which used to respond to methicillin, a simpler and much less expensive antibiotic. Today, MRSA is resistant to many antibiotics. In public, most MRSA infections are skin infections, but in medical centers, this dangerous bug causes potentially fatal blood poisoning, pneumonia, and infection of the surgical incisions. MRSA is expected to have a death toll of 19,000 annually in the United States alone. Luckily for patients with MRSA, Bactrim and Vancomycin, clindamycin, minocycline have been found to be still effective against it. However, resistance is now being seen developing even to some of these more potent and more expensive drugs. The emergence, multiplication, and spread of superbugs are a threat to the achievements of modern medicine. They would negate and render useless the great advances in pharmacologic science and clinical medicine we have gained so far in our war against bacterial infections. Warning from WHO The World Health Organization (WHO) has published and released its first worldwide review
of antimicrobial resistance with data from 114 countries and warning the global community of this serious threat to public health. WHO assistant director-general for Health Security, Dr. Keiji Fukuda, declared “Without urgent, coordinated action by many stakeholders, the world is headed for a post-antibiotic era, in which common infections and minor injuries which have been treatable for decades can once again kill….the implications will be devastating.” The report also pointed out that there is a resistance to last resort treatments, like carbapenem antibiotic against the common intestinal bacterium Klebsiella pneumoniae, which has now spread around the globe. This is now ineffective for more than 50 percent of severe infections it used to cure. E. coli infection of the urinary tract, which used to respond to fluoroquinolones, is now resistant to the drug around the world. When these drugs first came out in the 1980s, there was zero resistance. The UK, Canada, Australia, France, Japan, Austria, South Africa, Norway, Sweden, and Slovenia have reported treatment failures with third generation cephalosporins, the last resort treatment for the more than one million gonorrhea patients around the world. WHO also laments the fact that many nations lack basic systems to track and monitor antibiotic use and resistance, and not many have seriously addressed this issue. Our abuse is haunting us While bacterial resistance is a natural and expected tendency to a degree, the rapid speed of its development and the number of superbug transformations have been the results of our carelessness and abuse in the use of antimicrobial drugs as a society. For one thing, viral infections in general (colds, Flu, etc) do not respond to antibiotics, which are actually indicated only for bacterial infections. A person taking antibiotic frequently and without medical supervision is more prone to develop superbugs in his/her body. That would be tragic. Our abuse, which includes feeding antibiotics to our farm animal sources of meat, could bring back some old enemies in a drug-resistant and deadly form: PAGE B5
January 19, 2017 - Hui Xin is the first Chinese National to participate in the recently concluded American Endurance Ride Conference Race held at Ridgecrest, CA.
Mr. Huixin was the Champion of China Equestrian Drum Race, and a record holder of the Chinese Barrel Race. In 2007 and 2008, he represented China in the International Equestrian Circle World Cup held in Verona, Italy. He participated in Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) World Equestrian Games, which is the major international competition for equestrianism, in North Carolina last January 14, 2017.
Gerald Anderson on his new ‘sportserye’... PAGE B3 than basketball. When there is no court or ball, all I can do is run,” the actor explained during his launch as the new face of footwear brand Skechers Performance this week. Running, Gerald said in an interview with Philstar.com, is good for conditioning him to do other sports like basketball and for improving his endurance to do tapings and guestings. It has
also become his way of bonding with his girlfriend, actress Bea Alonzo, who is also a runner. “The reason why I can do what I’m doing today is because of my training, exercise, and healthier lifestyle,” he espoused. “Without exercise, other aspects of my life suffer...I feel fitter now that I’m 27 than when I was 21!” After every workout, he feels more energized, motivated and full of happy hormones. He ad-
mitted, though, that he still finds it hard to give up burgers, pizza, kare-kare and fried chicken. For those who also want to get into the sport, he advised to start at walking and find a good pair of running shoes that would improve one’s running time. “It’s always better to have someone with you, so you push each other,” said the actor, who has inspired his personal assistant, and even his makeup artist, to also run.
Therese Malvar: Child actress...
PAGE B3 where she plays the water elemental spirit Isla. Under the helm of box-office director Dan Villegas, “Ilawod” is also Therese’s first horror film and where she gets to play a sensual role.
“My objective is to seduce Ben (played by Harvey Bautista). Every touch I make on him should mean something. Isla’s confidence is strong, which is very far from reality because I am not that confident. I am also not a touchy kind of person,” she related.
Ilawod marks Therese’ transition from a child actress into a mature performer. As for other projects, Therese recently signed an exclusive contract with GMA Network, and was part of the cast of Oh My Mama with Yna De Belen and Jhake Vargas.
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An open letter of gratefulness to the Obama Family
By Monet
Lu
NOV. 4, 2008 was the day President Obama was elected president of the United States. He entered humbly into the ‘land of milk and honey’ where he would later bring about the change that he envisioned for this promising country. He took over the presidency after eight years of the Bush administration and managed to save the banking and automobile industry during his time. One article says, “he managed to create 109,000 jobs per month and decrease unemployment to 4.7 percent. The average hourly wage has increased by 2.9 percent, and the stock market has reached record highs under his administration.” Despite of all of these, many are still not as thrilled as he had hoped. It wasn’t easy being an AfricanAmerican president, let alone be a leader to people who back then, did not even know his name, nor understand the impact he would have on the world in the years that followed. And there’s his lovely wife, Michelle Obama. This amazing woman, who in her poignant and touching words, ‘left everyone in tears’ when she bid farewell to her staff a few days ago. The epitome of class and ‘calm under pressure’ – that is Michelle Obama for me. She is one of the
/ 08 0 1 & /
most genuine persons who ever lived in the White House. And she certainly has a way with words. A skill she displayed when she campaigned for Hillary Clinton earlier this year (as my readers and my friends know, I wanted Hilary to win the elections). Mrs. Obama served as a fashion icon. She has propelled designers including Peter Pilotto, Jason Wu, Isabel Toledo, Thakoon and St Erasmus into the limelight. Washington Post writes, “Obama has celebrated a distinctly contemporary version of American style — a sensibility rooted in comfort and practicality, wholly removed from the Old World formality that still percolates within French fashion and apart from the flashy sex appeal and bella figura
Superbug kills... PAGE B4 tuberculosis, typhoid, syphilis, gonorrhea, klebsiella, diphtheria, etc., which could wipe out countless millions more. Unless people take this warning seriously and act wisely and responsibly, and unless nations around the world work together to reassess and change how these drugs are manufactured, prescribed, and used, and come up
with potent new drugs against these superbugs, we, humans, are doomed to lose our war against these deadly bugs. And this could be worse than the plague, known as the Black Death, that killed more than 25 million people (almost half of the population) in Europe in the 14th century. This is not fiction. It is a very scary reality that is brewing. It’s really up to us.
Filipino American Sentiments... PAGE B3 volved and let our voices be heard in issues that we feel strongly about. I’m marching with my daughter, Lauren, because I want her to know that she should never let anything or anyone get in the way of her doing what is right. Like many immigrants, I came to this country in the quest for the great American dream - where everyone has access to equal opportunities, and where nothing is impossible if you dare dream it. I will continue to make sure that it continues to be that for my children and future grandchildren. Carol Ojeda Kimbrough- Professor & Activist I am joining the protest actions this weekend because it’s what we do when there is injustice. The incoming President is hell bent on removing all the gains of the civil rights and the peace and justice movements and we cannot allow that. As an activist who is a woman, an immigrant, and a person of color, I am going to chant as loud as I can and do what I need to do to preserve our hard-won rights
tailoring that are the twin pillars of Italian aesthetics.” The First Lady recently appeared on the cover of the December issue of Vogue magazine, and in the accompanying interview, she told the magazine, “You know, there are little ...moments. Even today I was looking out at this view here. Looking out on the South Lawn and the Washington Monument and it had just rained and the grass was really green and everything popped a little bit more. It’s soooo beautiful. And for that moment I thought, I’m going to miss waking up to this, having access to this anytime I want. But on the flip side … it’s time,” Now here we are, looking back at those eight good years, and just *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. For more data, visit philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com
izing that much more needs to be done. I want it to be clear that while I respect the electoral college vote in our recent election, I will be vigilant in ensuring that our civil liberties be protected. Additionally, I’m marching for equality, inclusion, and peace.
inequities, and inequalities. As a Filipino-American immigrant, I have learned about my two countries’ entangled histories, yet growing up in the U.S., I heard nothing about our community’s contributions to shaping this country. Enough is enough - we cannot perpetuate the same ideas that only a certain group of people are American. And we cannot repeat the same scapegoating of immigrants as the solution to economic issues we face today. This is a distraction from real issues, including the unequal distribution of wealth in this country. What we risk if we allow today’s rhetoric to become our truth is more violence and Irene Suico Soriano more division. The march is only Irene Suico Soriano- Office the beginning. We have to stay engaged to help create policies Manager UCLA Asian American and solutions that meet the needs Studies Center As an immigrant FilipinX Amerof many, not just a few. ican woman working and living in Southern California, I am marching this Saturday in solidarity with other immigrant women and families in Los Angeles to let President Trump and the backers of white supremacist and anti-blackness Trump-ism know that I will not back down and will repeatedly support and when needed, protect the rights of immigrants, BLGTQ, workers and non-human animals and most certainly, the right of every woman to choose. Erick Esteban- Stand Up
Ruffy Landayan
Anna Marie Cruz
Anna Marie Cruz-Health Coach & Economic Development Professional Since Election Day, I’ve been on a rollercoaster of emotions -from anxiety, hopelessness, and sadness. I believe this incoming administration is a major threat to American democracy but also to basic values that we strive to live up to and inculcate at a very young age. You know, values like sharing, caring, honesty. This is why I’ve decided to march on Saturday, not only to stand alongside sisters and brothers who are willing to put up a fight, but to tell the rest of the world that we will not sit back and watch our core values disappear because actors of corporate greed are being placed in our government to oversee institutions designed to protect the people. I will be marching to fight for access to healthcare, women’s rights, quality public education, the environment, immigrant rights, and to fight AGAINST sexual violence, racism, misogyny,
mentioned above) you both have you have ‘US’ in yours. Good luck effortlessly displayed. and may you continue to bring As you transition out of office, out the best in one another and in like ‘all good things – they (eventu- and out of The ‘House’ that you everyone. *** ally) come to an end’ – whether you made into a home to ‘US,’ we want you to know that we will do our Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning are ready for it or not. I wasn’t. I didn’t want to – at least best to carry on the legacy that celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of the Obama family has instilled in Monet Salon salons across Southern California not yet – not now. and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is But, if I could say a few words to our hearts. We will forever be grateful to known as an all-around artiste who produces our former president and his family, you, the graceful intelligent and sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as this is what I would tell them: To President Obama: As you compassionate first lady, Mrs. unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is leave the life of presidency to wel- Obama, as well as your beautiful also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural come a much less-complicated one, daughters Sasha and Malia for beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution I can imagine how eight years could their collective sacrifices for this to discoloration . To contact Monet, please nation. visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at feel so fleeting. You will remain in our hearts as monetsalon@aol.com My heart is filled with gratitude and appreciation; not only for the things you helped bring to light, but also for the many things we still have yet to realize. You have fought to keep this nation from the very thing we have now become. You gave us the Affordable Care Act, which isn’t perfect, but insures millions of American citizens who previously did not have access to health care. You made sure that that children 21822 Main St. Carson, CA (beside St. Phelomina) could remain on their parents’ health care policies until the age of 26 and that people who had preexisting conditions could not s 7EDDINGS s &UNDRAISERS be denied health care. You gave us the Defense of s !NNIVERSARIES s "ANQUETS Marriage Act. Now, LGBT citizens s "IRTHDAY 0ARTIES s (OLIDAY 0ARTIES finally got what they have been fighting for all these years – the s "REAKFAST -EETINGS s /PEN (OUSE 2ECEPTIONS right to marry the person they s "USINESS ,UNCHEONS s 0ICNIC 3OCIAL %VENTS love. In doing so, you did not only make an impact to a nation, but you s #HILDREN S 0ARTIES s &UNERALS defined a culture and you shook up s 3CHOOL #A s 3CHOOL #ARNIVALS and woke up a generation. You worked tirelessly on climate change laws and put areas of open space and ocean under federal also Available: protection from developers. • Kilawing Kambing You wanted to and could have +Tax • Papaitang Kambing created more jobs, but the Republi1 Lechon • Kalderetang Kambing can-led Congress had other plans. 4 full trays and 1 half tray na Ulam • Adobong Kambing I thank you, Mr. President, for 4 na half trays na Matamis • Sinampalukang Kambing those eight years of showing us that, “Yes, we (certainly) can.” We want you to know your legacy will live on long after your presidency. I want to thank you for every21822 Main St. thing that you did and tried to do for 10125 Rosecrans Ave., this country, despite the hatred, the Carson, CA Bellflower, CA 90706 opposition, and those roadblocks (beside St. Phelomina) that you and Mrs. Obama have encountered along the way. 17206 Norwalk Blvd., Inside Island Your family is one of the most Cerritos, CA 90703 Pacific-Cerritos wonderful families who have ever (inside Eriel Cafe Cerritos) (Weekend and Holiday) lived in the White House. I will miss you all beyond words can express. Tumawag na para sa catering sa inyong mga handaan! I have to accept – now, even more than ever – the foreboding reality that you and Mrs. Obama, who are the smartest, kindest, classiest, most dignified and caring couple to live in the White House is ‘handing over the keys’ to a couple who has yet to learn how to carry themselves with the qualities (I
Ruffy Landayan- SAG Actor I’m marching this Saturday because as a human being on this planet I HAVE to. Oppression is oppression, and it takes many forms. I firmly believe it doesn’t matter what gender, race, religion, color, or sexual orientation you are, it’s our duty to speak up for people that need help having a voice and don’t have one. I march peacefully, but I’ll always speak up for what’s right. And the fight Erick Esteban for good doesn’t end here, it has only begun. “Yes we can. Yes we Comedian I’m marching simply because did. Yes we can...” it is our country too, & we ain’t going anywhere. This man is not my President nor will he ever be my President. Just in the way he questioned the legitimacy of President Obama, I will promise to return the favor to him ten fold. If this is the new resistance let me be a Filipino Jedi. ***
Belinda Panelo
Belinda Panelo- Global Studies Student/ Mom & Actor I’m marching because I want to protect the progress that we’ve made in this country while real-
Giselle “G” Töngi is the host and producer of Kababayan Today, a daily talk show that features relevant topics for Filipino’s living in America. Her aim is to bridge not only the cultural gap between America & the Philippines but to help with the generational gap between our own people. She is married with two children and is based in Southern California and makes frequent trips in the Pacific Rim to Hawaii and Manila to feature fellow kababayans who are empowering the FilAm community.
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COMMUNITY Journal
Your Immigration Solution LoreLLa T. Hess & NaNcy MiLLer YOUR green card identifies you as a “lawful permanent resident” (LPR) of the United States, but that does not guarantee you a lifetime right to live in this country. There are several ways a person can lose LPR status. Once LPR status is lost, your green card will be cancelled (even if the card itself has not yet expired) and you can be deported from the United States or refused re-entry after a trip abroad. Even if you are permitted to reenter the country in order to fight for your status, you may be taken into custody and remain there until the question of your status is resolved. Unlike those with LPR status, United States citizenship cannot be involuntarily taken unless it is found that either the green card or citizenship was obtained through fraud. The main ways LPR status can be lost are: fraud, abandonment, and criminal activity. LPR status can be lost if you obtained it originally through fraud or misrepresentation. Some examples of fraud include submitting false documents with your application (like a fake birth certificate) or lying about a material fact (criminal history, marital status, educational background or employment history are just some examples). Lawful permanent residence means just that. It means that the holder of that status resides (lives) in the United States. One who has LPR status but does not live in the U.S. is considered to have abandoned that status. In seeking to determine whether one has abandoned LPR status, the government looks to how much time the LPR spends in the United States verses how much time is spent outside. There is a rebuttable presumption that one who spends a year or more outside the U.S. has abandoned their LPR status; however, rebuttable means the presumption is not conclusive. It can be contested by showing that the intent at the time of leaving was
When ‘permanent’ doesn’t necessarily mean permanent to maintain LPR status. One who is not gone for a year at a time but spends more time out of the U.S. than in it may also be found to have abandoned their LPR status. Here again, the government looks at the whole picture. Is the green card holder returning to the U.S. for a few weeks every year but lives and works elsewhere? Such people are likely to be found to have abandoned their LPR status. If one knows they will have to outside the U.S. for an extended period of time but does not intend to abandon their status, they should apply for a re-entry permit before they leave the U.S. If they have any irregularities in their immigration history, they should consult an immigration attorney before leaving in order to determine whether those irregularities could result in refusal of admission or deportation. Another common way to lose LPR status is through criminal activity. Many people assume that only very serious crimes like murder or armed robbery put a green card at risk, but the true picture is much more complicated and in some cases even depends on the timing of the offense. If you have ever pled guilty to a felony or misdemeanor in this country, you probably received a warning that your conviction would carry immigration consequences including removal from the United States. Take that warning seriously. Crimes committed abroad could also jeopardize your LPR status. For this reason, it is extremely important for a non-citizen to consult with an immigration attorney and
to have that attorney consult with the criminal defense attorney before deciding to accept a plea deal or take the case to trial. He or she should also consult with an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney before either traveling abroad or applying for citizenship. Fraud, abandonment or a criminal conviction can result in being placed into removal proceedings. That means being issued a Notice to Appear in Immigration Court because the government is seeking to remove you from the United States. However, even if the immigration judge finds that the LPR has committed fraud or abandoned their status or been convicted of a crime, all is not necessarily lost. Waivers and other forms of relief may be possible. That determination should be made by an immigration attorney who is knowledgeable and experienced in the area of deportation defense and who will work diligently to help their clients retain their status. *** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Manila. For more Information please call (800) 7958009 or visit www.rreeves.com. Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case. (Advertising Supplement)
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 21-24, 2017
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Minding Your Finances Atty. RAymond BulAon IF you are experiencing debt problems, you may find it difficult to talk to other people about it to the point that you are not getting the help that you need to find a solution. I understand. Debt is a very personal matter so most people don’t feel comfortable discussing it with anyone. So they keep it to themselves and don’t do anything about their problem until it gets worse. Like most people, you’ve probably worked hard, paid your taxes and have done your best to pay all your bills on time. But at some stage in life, all of us get into debt. Money problems can easily overlap into other areas of our lives. FACT: Many people feel hopeless and powerless over their debt problems. I have seen marriages become unstable and relationships destroyed forever. If you are currently in debt, rather than allowing your money problems to affect your life in such a dramatic way, filing for bankruptcy protection may help you
Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth uRSuA ReyeS DIVORCING couples with children sometimes worry about who is going to pay for their children’s college education after the divorce once their children graduates high school. They want a guarantee that their soon to be ex-spouse will share in the college expenses of their children. This is specially the case when the other spouse has moved on with a new family. The old family becomes less of a priority. In California, there is no legal basis for a spouse to request the family court to order the other spouse to pay for their adult children’s college expenses. However, the divorcing couple can agree to pay for their adult children’s college education as part of a marital settlement agreement. Family Code sec-
Community Journal
Why most people feel powerless over debt problems get your life back on track. If your liabilities exceed your total assets, you’ve suffered a job loss, are facing foreclosure or have bills you can no longer afford to pay, Congress has enacted bankruptcy laws that can help you get your finances in order. I know that the mere thought of bankruptcy makes most people nervous so they avoid exploring their options until it’s too late. I find this unfortunate because, in a lot of cases, people could have turned their situation around much sooner had they taken the time to find out what their legal rights are. Some people wait too long to file bankruptcy even when it is their only option. In the process, they use up hard-earned assets like their retirement plan, savings accounts, etc. but in the end, they realize that this was nothing more than a temporary fix to a lingering problem. If you’ve come to the end of your financial rope and don’t know what else to do, it is time to face your debt problems with dignity and do what your situation calls for. I am not saying that bankruptcy is for everyone but after being a bankruptcy attor-
ney for almost 14 years now and having represented thousands of clients in bankruptcy, what I have seen is that oftentimes, bankruptcy is the ONLY WAY for most people in debt to get a fresh start when they are in over their heads in debt. If bankruptcy is the best option for you, you don’t need to keep living paycheck to paycheck while digging a deeper financial hole every single month. Yes, bankruptcy may be a scary thing for a lot of people who don’t understand the process but once you’ve taken the time to find out how it works and how it could help you get out of debt, you may realize that it’s actually not as difficult as you first may have thought. To schedule a free consultation, please call Toll-Free 1-866477-7772. We have offices in Glendale, Cerritos and Valencia. *** None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully helped thousands of clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call Ray Bulaon Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1 (866) 477-7772. (Advertising Supplement)
Can a divorcing couple agree to pay for their adult children’s college expenses in their divorce judgment? tion 3587; In re Marriage of Rosenfeld and Gross, 225 Cal. App. 4th 478 (2014). Pursuant to statute and court cases, college expense payment provision in a stipulated marital settlement agreement, as incorporated into a Court’s judgment, constitutes adult child support such that court had jurisdiction to modify the provision in light of the settlement’s failure to specifically provide that adult child support was not subject to modification. In re Marriage of Rosenfeld and Gross, 225 Cal. App. 4th at 488 (2014). Providing for payment of adult children’s college expenses is recognized more of an “add on” to adult child support. Family Code 4062(b)(1). However, the parties may “opt out” or restrict the court’s jurisdiction to modify an adult child support order (including college expenses) but the parties
must expressly and specifically state in their marital settlement agreement that any resulting adult child support order will not be subject to modification or termination by the Court because the adult child support order is rooted in the parent’s contractual agreement. Cal. Family Code Section 3587, 3651(a). So if you are concerned about your spouse sharing for the college tuition and expenses of your children after the divorce, you should negotiate a provision in your marital agreement that both of you will share on the college tuition and expenses of your children. In doing so, you should also think about whether you want this provision to be non-modifiable or not. In the absence of a specific provision limiting adult child support as non-modifiable and non-termi-
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New California laws 2017
Tax Tips
of residential rentals are now prohibited from showing, renting, or leasing a vacant unit that they know has bedbug probVictoR Sy, lems. cPA, mBA Birth Control Pills: Women can pick up an entire year’s worth (Part 2 of 2) TEXTING While Driving: Tex- of birth control pills at once, and ting is already forbidden, but new health plans must cover the cost. Motorcycle Riders: California law further prohibits drivers from using smartphones for other pur- became one of the first states to poses while behind the wheel define “lane-splitting” formal— unless they’re in hands-free izing a long-standing practice mode. The state’s ban on texting of motorcycle riders to squeeze expands to include other distrac- through stacked up traffic. tions such as searching for “Pokemon Go” characters. Wage Discriminations: An employer can’t pay a woman less than her male colleagues because of her prior salary. Prescription Drugs & Doctors: Employers are prohibited from paying women less than male Lawmakers passed legislation to colleagues based on earlier sal- hold physicians accountable for prescribing psychotropic mediary. Workers in “substantially simi- cations to help control troubled lar” jobs but of different races children. New law puts doctors or ethnicity will need to be paid who recklessly prescribe psychiatric drugs at risk of losing their equal wages. Allergic Reactions: California medical license. Ransomware: It is now a crime businesses and public agencies are authorized to have on hand to use ransomware, malware, or medicine designed to combat intrusive software injected into a computer or network to hold data emergency allergic reactions. Autographed Collectibles: Ev- hostage until money is paid. Sex Crimes: New law broadery autographed collectible sold in California must come with a ens the definition of rape to incertificate that verifies it’s not a clude all forms of nonconsensual forgery, under a bill backed by sexual assault. It also makes sexually assaultfamed “Star Wars” actor Mark ing an unconscious person a Hamill. Bedbug infestation: Landlords crime with a mandatory prison
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sentence. Prison time will be mandatory for those convicted of assault in which the victim was unconscious or not capable of giving consent because of intoxication. California eliminated statutes of limitations for rape and some other sex crimes. Rape, sexual assault, and other sex offenses committed in 2017 will no longer be subject to statute of limitations. Previous law generally limited prosecution to within 10 years. Single-User Bathrooms: New law requires all singletoilet bathrooms in businesses and public agencies to be gender neutral. Bathrooms in public buildings with a single toilet must be designated as all-gender, open to anyone. Smoking: Smoking or use of electronic cigarettes within 250 feet of any youth sports event including Little League baseball game is now illegal.
Workers in ‘substantially similar’ jobs but of different races or ethnicity will need to be paid equal wages.
Immigration Corner Atty. BRiAn leRneR QUESTION: I don’t know what to do. Trump will become president and I’m afraid he will deport everyone who is not here legally? What can I do? Answer: First of all, while the president certainly has a lot of power, he cannot simply order that 11 million people be deported. In fact, there are many laws and procedures which have been passed by Congress and signed by prior presidents as to the rights of foreign nationals here in the U.S. Question: What if they just take me out of my house?
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*** Victor Santos Sy graduated Cum Laude from UE with a BBA and from Indiana State University with an MBA. Vic worked with SyCip, Gorres, Velayo (SGV - Andersen Consulting) and Ernst & Young before establishing Sy Accountancy Corporation in Pasadena, California. *** He has 50 years of experience in defending taxpayers audited by the IRS, FTB, EDD, BOE and other governmental agencies. He is publishing a book on his expertise - “HOW TO AVOID OR SURVIVE IRS AUDITS.” Our readers may inquire about the book or email tax questions at vicsy@live.com. (Advertising Supplement)
Keep your hopes up in this uncertain time Answer: First of all, under most circumstances, you will have the right to fight your case in front of an immigration judge. This means you will have the opportunity to deny or admit the allegations against you; the right to a contested hearing on those allegations and the right to ask for all kinds of relief you might qualify for under the law. The immigration judge may very well find you deportable, but ask what relief are you going to seek. Question: Assuming the immigration judge does ask this type of question, what can I answer? Answer: Each case is different and that is the reason to make sure you have a qualified
Immigration and Naturalization Attorney helping you. However, some of the more popular forms of relief would be Adjustment of Status, Fraud Waiver, Criminal Waiver, Registry, Asylum, Withholding of Removal, Cancellation of Removal for Lawful Permanent Residents, Cancellation of Removal for Non-residents, Convention against Torture and others. You can see that in fact there are numerous forms of relief and assuming qualification, the law permits you to fight for these and to obtain status EVEN if the Immigration Judge rules you are removable and EVEN if you are here illegally.
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Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights Atty. C. Joe SAyAS, Jr. SONNY Low is a 71-year old San Diego resident, who took the free introductory Trump University seminar. Trump University persuaded Low to pay $1,500 in order to attend another seminar. During the second seminar, Low was told that he needed to have a mentor in order to succeed in real estate. By buying the Trump Elite program for $25,000, Low was told he would receive his own mentor who would work “side-by-side” with him to create a “customized investment plan.” Later, Low met with his Trump University mentor, and realized that his “mentor” was not knowledgeable in real estate investing. The “mentor” did not create a “customized investment plan” or work “sideby-side” with Low to invest in real estate. Low’s requests for a refund of the monies he paid were refused by Trump University. Five other persons also had the same experience as Low. They were promised a “complete real estate education,” a “one year apprenticeship,” a one-on-one mentorship, and a “power team” consisting of real estate experts. They did not receive these promises. Instead, students merely received an “infomercial” for additional Trump University seminars or workshops they were told they needed to take to succeed. The “one year apprenticeship” was actually just a three-day seminar. The one-on-one year-long
To Live With Faith
Community Journal
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$25 million payout in Trump Reinstatement for surviving beneficiaries of University class action an I-130 petition filed by a deceased relative Is non-admission of guilt the same as innocence?
mentorship consisted of a total of six one-hour meetings that did not provide any mentorship. The New York State Education Department had warned Trump it was unlawful to call his program a “university.” The students sued Trump University and Donald Trump in a class action, alleging violations of the Consumer Legal Remedies Act (CLRA), the False Advertising Law, Financial Elder Abuse (Trump targeted seniors), fraud, and false promises. The students wanted a full refund of the amounts they paid for the seminars, and they wanted the court to prohibit Trump from falsely its seminars. California has very specific laws that protect consumers against false advertising. Companies and individuals are prohibited from making statements regarding the sale of goods or services that mislead the public. Federal law also specifically prohibits false ads likely to induce the purchase of food, drugs, devices, cosmetics, or services. A false ad is defined as one that is “misleading in a material respect.” An ad is deceptive if it is likely to mislead reasonable consumers under the circumstances. The test is whether the consumer’s interpretation or reaction is reasonable. Trump University and Donald Trump deny that they did anything wrong. However, on December 19, 2016, Trump signed
an agreement to settle the case and pay $25 million to the more than 6,000 students who claimed to have been misled by Trump University. Even after the settlement, Trump continues to deny wrongdoing. While it is standard practice not to admit guilt, the payment of $25 million is a recognition that a reasonable jury or judge can conclude that the allegations of false advertising are well-founded. Hardly can one ascribe innocence to a “tough” defendant who paid this much money to buy his peace. False advertising harms the public. The laws on false advertising, as well as the class action remedies, protect consumers. Any misleading or untrue advertising in the sale of goods and services should be aggressively prosecuted in court against anyone in order to deter these unlawful practices. *** The Law Offices of C. Joe Sayas, Jr. welcomes inquiries about this topic. All inquiries are confidential and at no-cost. You can contact the office at (818) 291-0088 or visit www. joesayaslaw.com. *** C. Joe Sayas, Jr., Esq. is an experienced trial attorney who has successfully obtained significant recoveries for thousands of employees and consumers. He is named Top Labor & Employment Attorney in California by the Daily Journal, consistently Aselected as Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine, and is a member of the Million Dollar-Advo(Advertising Supplement) cates Forum.
Prayer in time of transition
human decency. We’re concerned about our nation, the United States of reverend America. Never in the past derodel G. BAlAGtAS cades have we witnessed disturbing divisions in politics that “FROM that time on, Jesus have destroyed the morale of began to preach and say, “Re- our nation and citizens as we pent, for the kingdom of heaven did during this past presidential campaign and election. We is at hand.” (Matthew 4:23) Many of us are deeply con- close our eyes and hope that cerned about the things that are everything would be fine--that going on in the world today. Our our children would have food to generation has seen enormous eat, good education for a better violence, war, and poverty and future, and safe cities and towns destructions of societies. Our to walk, work, and play. We pray that our new presigeneration has not only seen death of fellow human beings dent, Donald Trump, will lead but also death of morality and the country well by forging
unity among legislators as they seek out what is right and just for the welfare of every citizen and every human being in this country. We pray that our leaders will be true to their promises of eradicating corruption and greed in business and politics. We pray that they work together to preserve the sanctity of life, marriages, and families. We’re not an isolated nation, and so we pray that our newly elected president and his cabinet will create paths of greater dialogues among leaders of other nations so that peace, harmony, and well-being of all people
DEAR Attorney Tan, My US Citizen mother filed an I-130 immigrant petition on my behalf, which has a priority date in February 2000 and which has been approved. She filed the I-130 petition after I came to the US in 1999 as a tourist from the Philippines. Since my arrival, I have lived in the US and have been out of status. Since I was petitioned as an unmarried adult daughter, I was advised that I had to wait several years to get a green card. Recently, my mother passed away. Can I still get a green card through my mother’s petition? — Apparently In Limbo Dear Apparently In Limbo, When your mother passed away, the I-130 that was approved on your behalf was revoked by operation of law pursuant to 8 CFR Section 205.1. However, depending on the facts of a particular case, all is not lost. You may be eligible to get a green card pursuant to INA Section 204(L). Under INA Section 204(L), relief from an automatic revocation of an I-130 petition is available to certain surviving relatives. Surviving relatives who are eligible to seek 204(L) relief include a 1) principal or derivative beneficiary of an I-130 petition that was filed by a deceased permanent resident or U.S. Citizen, and 2) derivative beneficiary of an I-130 petition that was filed by a permanent resident or U.S. Citizen where the principal beneficiary has died. Section 204(L) relief is also available to derivative beneficiaries in I-140 employment-based petitions where the principal beneficiary has died. Another requirement for Section 204(L) relief is that the person seeking relief must have “residence” in the US. What is meant by “residence?” It is your primary home or principal actual dwelling place. At least one beneficiary must have resided in the U.S. when the petitioning relative died, and must continue to reside in the U.S. when seeking Section 204(L) relief. It is worth noting that all beneficiaries of a petition can benefit from Section 204(L) relief as long as at least one of the beneficiaries meets the residence requirement. Further, although “residence” is required, Section 204(L) does not require actual physical presence in the U.S. when the relative died. In your case, it appears that you are eligible to obtain a green card. You are a principal beneficiary of an I-130 petition filed by your US Citizen mother. Further, you appear to meet the residence requirement in that you have been in the US since your arrival in 1999—you resided in the US when your mother passed away, and currently reside in the US. A check of the USCIS visa bulletin indicates the priority date for the I-130 petition filed by your mother on your behalf is current, so you can file an I-485 adjustment of status application, requesting reinstatement of the I-130 petition filed by your mother pursuant to Section 204(L). As a sidenote, Section 204(L) relief is also available if one’s relative died while the I-130 was pending, not only after the I-130 petition was approved. Section 204(L) relief therefore is broader than Humanitarian Reinstatement of a petition under 8 CFR Section 205.1, which can only be requested by the principal beneficiary when the petitioner him/herself has died, and after approval of an I-130. Relief under Section 204(L) is discretionary, and can be denied if factors in support of relief are not presented properly. It is accordingly recommended that you seek the assistance of an experienced attorney. *** Darrick V. Tan, Esq. is admitted to practice law in California and Nevada. Mr. Tan is a graduate of UCLA and Southwestern University School of Law. He is a member of the Consumers Attorney Association of Los Angeles and is a former member of the Board of Governors of the Philipp ine American Bar Association. LAW OFFICES OF DARRICK V. TAN, 3580 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 900, Los Angeles, CA 90010. Tel: (323) 639-0277. Email: info@dtanlaw. com. (Advertising Supplement)
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nable, the default is that child support is modifiable. Sometimes, leaving the adult child support provision as modifiable protects the spouses from unforeseen future events such as a disability or retirement which limits the earning capacity of a spouse and ability to comply with the adult child support prou PAGE C4 vision in the MSA.
*** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kureyeslaw@gmail.com or visit our website
at Kenreyeslaw.com. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article (Advertising Supplement) is not a solicitation.
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Community Journal
Chapter 7 to discharge credit cards, loans
Debt Relief Atty. LAwrence yAng CLIENT is 64, a young senior. I say young because I consider seniors in their sixties as still active and robust. Except for more white hair, they still feel like they are 30. The problem with being in the sixties is that seventy is just around the corner. Now when one becomes 70, after ten years you become 80. In your eighties, your hoping that Putin’s anti aging pill is already in commercial production. Putin is 64 right now, just like client. He has a pharmaceutical company in Russia that is doing in depth research on mitochondria cells that focus on delaying aging and extending human life to 130. So, maybe this is why PEOTUS Trump wants to be his best friend. I wouldn’t mind being his best friend either if the Russian company actually makes this pill available for humans in the next 10 or even 20 years, I might still be around to benefit from it. Client says that his net income is $3,500 and that he is separated from his wife. His rent is $600 for a room. He sends money to his brothers and sisters in his country of origin. The problem is that he owes $30K of credit card debt. He pays minimum of $1K a month for the credit cards. He also has a car payment of $350. We don’t have to do more calculation here. The minimum payment of $1K for credit cards is almost a third of his next income. That is just way too much. He wants to get rid of his credit cards now that he is 64 so he can start saving some money. Well, it’s a little late to start saying money now but at least with the discharge of all of his credit cards, he can save $12K in the next 12 months, and $24K next year, then $36K then $48K. So when he turns 69, just before he becomes 70, he can have $50K saved up which he can use any way he wants. This is a lot better than keeping these cards, paying them $50K for the next 4 years, then still owe them the same principal of $30K when he turns 70. So, this is really a no brainer, isn’t it? Would he rather have $50K in cash and not owe anything
at the age of 69, or throw away $50K in minimum payments and still owe $30K credit cards at age 69? He asks if his brother whom he used as reference for a personal loan who did not sign a personal guaranty is legally liable for his debt if it is discharged in bankruptcy; of course not. Brother can only be made liable for his debt if brother signed a written personal guaranty. Without a signed personal guaranty, brother used a reference, cannot be sued because he has no legal liability to the creditor of client. Next client are husband and wife who are 72 and 71. Wife made sure that I understood that she was only 71 and one year younger than her husband who is 72. Yes, I got that. One year makes all the difference. I told her that I stopped counting 20 years ago and advised her to do the same. It’s useless to keep counting, what’s the big deal anyway? Who wants to know that you are now one year closer to leaving this earth; certainly not yourself. Look at the picture of the Indonesian guy who is the oldest man alive at 145. I mean what can you do at 145? You’re practically a cadaver and blind. Can’t hear anything. Quality of life is just zilch. Clients owe $46K of credit card. Their social security is $3K a month. Rent is at $1200. They have $1800 left but their credit cards need minimum of $1500. How are they going to eat and pay for other necessities if they continue to pay $1500 for credit cards? They can grow their own vegetables in their backyard, if they had a backyard. They rent an apartment with no backyard. Husband says that he has all kinds of muscle pain and has a pacemaker, so that kills his plan to drive for UBER so he can raise another $1500 to pay for their credit cards. He says they have already lived a full life, having travelled all over the world, using the cards. But they have paid the cards for the last 20 years a total of $360K yet they still owe the very same $46K of credit cards today. I told them that they should have done their Chapter 7 twenty years ago, so today they would have $360K
in their portfolio earning them at least 5 percent or $1500 a month, or $18K a year. That certainly helps now, instead of paying them a small fortune and still owing them the same amount of $46K. Should have gotten rid of these cards a long time ago. They decide immediately to file for Chapter 7 to discharge the $46K of credit cards. Peace of mind without credit card payments is what they need now at 72 and 71. Last client were business owners. They are also seniors at 60 and 61. The owned a business that closed down in 2007. When the business closed, the company, which is an S corporation, owed an SBA loan of $49K, which is now $89K because of the accrued interest. SBA started to garnish wife’s wages last week. She didn’t like the garnishment. Can’t blame her, who wants to get your hard earned wages taken at the rate of 25 percent of gross. As PEOTUS says that is a “bigly” deduction, NOT FAIR! And NOT NICE! In addition, they owe $90K of credit card debt plus another $30K of unsecured business debt. They ask if it makes sense to settle the accounts owed. I say what for? With a Chapter 7, you can wipe out all of the $210K debt, start fresh again with zero debt, all it costs is the attorney & filing fees, which are very reasonable. Settlement at half for instance, would still cost $120K, which they don’t have. I mean, settlement is very expensive compared to Chapter 7 legal fees. You wipe out $240K for almost not cost except legal fees. That’s the American way. Look at PEOTUS, his companies filed bankruptcy four times and he still the president elect. That is one smart dude. VERY SMART! “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” — Hebrews 13:8 *** Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in bankruptcy, business, real estate and civil litigation and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 1000 S. Fremont Ave, Mailstop 58, Building A-1 Suite 1125, Alhambra, CA 91803.
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Calendar of Events across
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 JA N UA RY 2 1
Free women’s self-defense class in Echo Park Assemblymember Jimmy Gomez invites you to a free women’s self-defense class with Grand Master Conrad A. Manaois on Saturday, January 21st. In partnership with MOTHER Movement and El Centro Del Pueblo, this workshop will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at El Centro Pueblo at 1157 Lemoyne St., Los Angeles, CA 90026. Space is limited, participants must RSVP no later than Jan. 18 by calling (213)483-5151.
JA N UA RY 24
Workshop - Dementia: Up close & personal in Sherman Oaks, CA The American Geriatric Care Management and Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Greater LA are hosting a workshop on Tuesday, January 24 called Dementia: Up close & personal, preserving family relationships at the onset of dementia. Learn how to handle the stress and challenges of family caregiving when alzheimer’s or dementia are too close to home. Manage the care of your family member by using the right language and approach. The event will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Valley Economic Alliance (VEA) building, BFG conference room at 5121 Van Nuys Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91204. To RSVP, please call Lou at (310) 938-9393 or Mary Ann Omega at (818) 430-3972. Seating is limited. Snacks and refreshments will be provided.
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Historic Filipinotown Scavenger Hunt Explore the cultural gems of HiFi (Historic Filipinotown) by joining the 2nd HiFi Scavenger Hunt Fundraiser on Saturday, January 28 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m! Meet Filipino-specific challenges (from a Balut eating contest to dancing Tinikling to a hip hop beat!). You may find yourself meeting a little-known community hero, tasting a Filipino food challenge or receiving your very own Filipino nickname! You will be having a blast while building your bayanihan spirit by asking your friends and family and even your Facebook fans to donate money to sponsor your Team to take this challenge. You and your team choose your own fundraising goal! Funds raised by this event will go to the programs and services of 2 HiFi community organizations, Pilipino Workers Center (PWC) and Filipino American Service Group, Inc. (FASGI) to provide vital services to families, workers and seniors in our community. Services include free or low-cost citizenship application assistance, human trafficking survivor support, civic engagement, wage theft claims assistance, cultural programs and more! Have fun, Discover Historic Filipinotown win prizes and support your community while doing it! Go to www.pwcsc.org/HiddenHiFi to sign up now. PWC is located at 153 Glendale Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90026.
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
Prayer in time of…
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ğ įōíľ ÀðıÃæµįPçį ʼn æIJįıÀ ØÃĉÃæîÂ ß ğÃqPç qíß߼æÃıŎįĤÀíĽØ ÕæíŊįPdíĽIJĕ If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, email us the details (title, description, time & date, location, etc.) at info@asianjournalinc.com. And for consideration in our print calendar, please send submissions at least three weeks before the date of the event. To be included in our online calendar/ e-newsletter, please allow at least two to three weeks' notice. The Asian Journal would be delighted to list your event in our Calendar of Events.
America
would reign in this world. When our leaders assure us of these things we can sleep well and not live in fear. So the best thing that we can do now is to pray for God’s intervention that the values of the Gospel would prevail in the senate, in the congress, in the halls and courts of politicians, governors and judges. Meanwhile we continue to speak up when we see any form of evil and any violation of human rights and justice. We continue to be vigilant citizens in protecting our jobs and families. The Kingdom of God must
reign on earth. It must be entrusted to men and women who are selfless in service, pure in intentions, courageous in making right decisions, and true to their promises to lead with moral integrity. The Kingdom of God must have people who work hard to bring order in their personal and family lives. The Kingdom of God must have neighbors who care for one another; citizens, lawmakers and administrators who bring shelters to the homeless, food for the hungry, and medical benefits for all. Let us never be discouraged! Let us live in hope that God’s
Kingdom in his Son, Jesus Christ, would triumph in this world through the power of the Spirit! *** From a Filipino immigrant family, Reverend Rodel G. Balagtas was ordained to the priesthood from St. John’s Seminary in 1991. He served as Associate Pastor at St. Augustine, Culver City (1991-1993); St. Martha, Valinda (1993-1999); and St. Joseph the Worker, Canoga Park (1999-2001). In 2001, he served as Administrator Pro Tem of St. John Neumann in Santa Maria, CA, until his appointment as pastor of ImmAaculate Heart of Mary, Los Angeles, in 2002, which lasted 12 years. His term as Associate Director of Pastoral Field Education at St. John’s Seminary began in July 2014.
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Question: How long will it take? Answer: Removal proceedings will take longer in the more popular states, such as California and New York. However, much will depend on the type of case and the facts of each case. However, typically, a case in immigration court will take up to two to three years. Question: What if I lose? Answer: You will then have the opportunity to appeal the case to the BIA (Board of Immigration
Appeals), which will normally take one to two years. Question: What if I lose there? Answer: You will then have the opportunity to appeal the case to the Circuit Court of Appeal. I can continue letting you know, but suffice it to say, that you cannot just be thrown out of the country as Trump and/or his people might have you think. This brief Q&A should at least notify you that there are plenty of ways to fight and unless all the laws themselves are simply changed, you will have
plenty of opportunities to fight your case. *** Atty. Brian D. Lerner has been an Immigration Attorney for nearly a quarter of a century. He is married to a Filipina and has helped thousands of Filipino families all over the country. In addition to his offices in Southern California in Long Beach and Carson, he has an office in Quezon City. He is a certified specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law by the Legal Board of Specialization, California State Bar. The initial consultation is free. Call (562) 495-0554 and/or send an e-mail to blerner@californiaimmigration.us. (Advertising Supplement)
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Is your broken marriage really ‘fixed’? Immigration Corner ATTY. MICHAEL GURFINKEL, ESQ IF a person is ever caught in a fi xed marriage (married solely to obtain immigration benefits), the consequences (or punishment) could be severe. A fixed marriage finding by the USCIS could result in a lifetime ban from ever having any other petition approved. For example, if a person was caught in a fixed marriage, but later divorced that American and married a different US citizen for love, the second US citizen spouse would not be able to petition the person. Similarly, if a person is caught in a fixed marriage, and years later, their US-born child turns 21, the child also could not petition them. However, there have been many cases where the marriage was real, but for one reason or another (perhaps miscommunication, misunderstanding, confusion, lack of documents), the USCIS concludes the marriage was fixed. If you are in a real marriage, but your case was denied because USCIS incorrectly concluded your marriage was fixed, you should fight that decision. (Of course, if the marriage WAS fixed, then there really would be nothing to fight for.) The laws concerning fixed marriages could be very helpful to people finding themselves being wrongly accused of entering into a fixed marriage. The key to the “viability of the marriage” (or whether it was real) is whether the marriage was valid at its inception, even if the couple is now separated and the marriage is no longer viable. This means if you walked down the aisle on your wedding day with “love in your heart,” then your marriage would be valid even if it soon deteriorates. Think about the 72–day marriage between Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries. That marriage, although short in length, was valid at its inception and if Kim was an alien being petitioned by Kris, it would still have been considered a valid or viable marriage. As long as the marriage was
valid at its inception, and the couple is not divorced yet, the person’s adjustment of status could still be approved, even though the marriage may no longer be viable at the time of the adjustment application or interview. So long as the marriage was viable at its inception (and can be proved and documented as such), a person would still be entitled to pursue their green card. Courts have recognized that “marriages for green cards [may be] genuine. An intent to obtain something other than or in addition to love and companionship from that life does not make a marriage a sham. Rather, the sham arises from the intent not “to establish a life together.” Therefore, even if one of the reasons you get married is to obtain a green card, it does not necessarily mean the marriage is fixed, as long as on your wedding day, you intended to have a life together with your spouse. In another case, involving an elderly couple, they never consummated their marriage. The US citizen married because he needed a housekeeper and was sick, and his wife took care of him. He paid for the food, and she paid for everything else. The BIA ruled that “The reasons for the marriage appear to be far sounder than exist for most marriages.” I know so much confusion can take place at an interview because the person is extremely nervous and the couple may give conflicting answers, or the questions are confusing. I recall one case that was denied, where the officer asked the wife if her husband had any ailments or sickness. She said “no”. The officer separately asked the husband whether he had any injuries. He replied he injured his knee. The officer concluded the marriage was fixed because of this type of inconsistent answer. But there’s a big difference between sickness and injury. So, the officer created the confusion and discrepancy. Also, if you are called back for several interviews, or if DHS visits your home early in the morning or interviews your neighbors, that shows your case is in trouble, and you’re likely under suspicion and investigation. As you can see, it’s sometimes
DTI chief: Trump priorities align with Duterte platform by RICHMOND
MERCURIO Philstar.com
MANILA - Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez is seeing similarities in the economic priorities of the incoming administration of US president-elect Donald Trump with those of President Duterte. “Trump, viewed by many as someone who talks straight and authentic, gets things done and does what is good for his countrymen has attributes that sound familiar,” said Lopez who is in Davos, Switzerland attending the World Economic Forum. In one of the early sessions that discussed the outlook of the Trump administration, LoPAGE D2
Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez is seeing similarities in the economic priorities of the incoming administration of US president-elect Donald Trump with those of President Duterte. Philstar.com photo
HSBC: PH to continue to attract FDIs, enjoy strong growth by IRIS
GONZALES Philstar.com
MANILA - The Philippines will continue to attract foreign direct investments and enjoy strong growth despite the anti-drug war of President Duterte which has affected the perception of foreign investors on the Philippines, said British banking giant HSBC. “We continue to expect pretty stable increase in FDIs,” said Cheuk Wan Fan, HSBC managing director and head of Investment Strategy in Asia. In a press briefing, Fan said FDI inflows would remain strong on the back of the robust Philippine economy. “Economy will continue to deliver robust growth,”
she said. FDIs slowed in October as a result of external shocks, declining for the second month in a row but the January to October tally posted growth, latest data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed. Inflows declined 14.3 percent to $342 million in October from $399 million a year ago, but for the 10-month period, FDI inflows grew 22.2 percent to $6.22 billion from $5.09 billion in the same period in 2015. Fan said growth would continue to create business opportunities for foreign players which would translate to growth in inflows. PAGE D2
Business Quote of the Week “Everyone talks about building a relationship with your customer. I think build one with your employees first.” – Angela Ahrendts, Senior Vice President, Apple
like walking through a minefield in connection with marriages, especially if they were viable at the inception but then fell apart. If this type of situation applies to you, or you’re being called back for a “second” interview, you may want to seek the advice of an attorney who can hopefully salvage your case, by proving the marriage was not fixed – only broken. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and reenactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorneyclient relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)
HEART-TO-HEART. President Rodrigo Duterte hosts a dinner for the country’s top businessmen in Malacañang on Tuesday. Presidential Adviser on Entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion said the gathering cleared the air of the tycoons’ misconceptions on Duterte. Malacañang photo
Duterte hosts dinner for Philippine tycoons by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte hosted a dinner for some of the country’s top businessmen at the Malacañang Palace on Tuesday night, January 17. “The President reiterated that he was all for job creation to uplift the people’s well-being. The one-hour meeting was extended
to three and in the words of Joey Concepcion, everybody walked out extremely, extremely happy,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a news briefing on Wednesday, January 18. During the meetup, which was facilitated by Joey Concepcion, Duterte’s adviser in entrepreneurship, various topics were tackled, including federal-
ism, contractualization, graft, job creation, tax reform, and graft and corruption. “Basically, they were being brought on board to help address the issue of how to create a more inclusive economy, especially addressing work and investments in areas of conflict,” Abella said. According to Finance SecrePAGE D2
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SSS looks to invest more abroad by IrIs
Gonzales Philstar.com
MANILA - The Social Security System (SSS) is on the lookout for investment opportunities abroad to park up to P36 billion of its Investment Reserve Fund (IRF) as part of sweeping reforms to ensure the viability of the SSS fund, its top official said. In a briefing organized by the Shareholders’ Association of the Philippines (SharePHIL), a group of minority investors, SSS president and CEO Emmanuel Dooc said the SSS could invest abroad a maximum of 7.5 percent or roughly P36 billion of its IRF, which is around P480 billion at present. “Under the charter, we reviewed that we can invest overseas and we realized we don’t really invest overseas so we are looking at that,” Dooc said. Dooc said SSS may start investing a portion of its fund this year and would be tapping the help of investment fund managers, either local or foreign. SSS is also studying the possibility of diversifying assets by directly investing up to 25 percent ownership in a wide range of industries including toll roads, real
SSS president and CEO Emmanuel Dooc
estate and even lotto operations just like the social security system in Canada, Dooc said. “We want a win win solution to all stakeholders but we want to make sure benefits are not compromised so we need to increase continually increase our investment income. Primarily investment income help finance social security benefits,” he said. Early this month, President Duterte approved an across-theboard pension increase of P2,000
that would benefit the agency’s over two million pensioners, with the initial P1,000 increase immediately and another P1,000 in 2022 or earlier. At the same time, Duterte approved the proposal of the economic managers to ensure the sustainability of the pension fund by implementing an additional 1.5 percent contribution rate and lifting the maximum monthly salary credit (MSC) to P20,000 from the current P16,000 by May 2017. “SSS should be seen as longterm savings and not an expense,” Duterte has said. Dooc said the P1,000 increase in SSS benefit is already fully financed and the additional hike in contribution would be used to enlarge the IRF. President Rodrigo Duterte meets with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin at the Music Room at Malacañang on Tuesday, Jan. 17. “The additional contribution Malacañang photo hike come May 2017 will be used to enlarge investment reserve fund to generate higher yields to further strengthen the viability of the pension fund for future obligations. The SSS is under pressure to look for other lucrative SSS investment opportunities to by CatherIne talavera “The opening of more indusincrease income and grow social “As the Philippines forges new ManilaTimes.net security fund as well as keep international alliances[it]attracts trial subdivisions will be beneficial operating expenses at a bare THE international partnerships a wide net of investors,” Santos to more foreign and local MSME minimum,” Dooc said. investments, while improvement of the Philippines with other coun- said. The real estate services firm in the logistics will proivide more tries, particularly China is seen to accelerate the growth of the noted that with new sources of convenience, add accessibility to country’s real estate sector, a real funds such as China will acceler- road networks and reduce traffic ate the growth of the real estate congestion in prime locations conestate services firm said. In a media briefing on Wednes- industry especially in the residen- ducive to industrial development,” The British bank also raised day, Santos-Knight Frank Inc. tial and industrial side. added the company. the projected GDP growth for last chairman and chief executive In an earlier report, CBRE PhilMeanwhile, Santos-Knight year to 6.8 percent from the origi- officer Rick Santos said that ippines noted that the industrial Frank said it also sees opportunal forecast of 6.5 percent. diplomatic ties the Philippines is sector continues to remain robust, nities to rise in the residential This is despite an uncertain forming with other nations pres- mainly driven by the various in- property market. external environment and weak ents an opportunity to gain more frastructure projects, specifically “Santos Knight Frank aims to regional growth. road networks and transportation leverage on Knight Frank’s strong investment. access currently in the pipeline. residential presence in China to “Location and accessibility further expand the real estate are two of the most important industry in the Philippines,” the factors influencing real estate company said. investment decisions and tourism The company noted that the activities,” CBRE said “This fact demand-drivers for the residential establishes the critical part that property market are expected transport infrastructure plays in to persist underpinned by the the determination of the next best country’s sound macroeconomic location for property investment fundamentals. and development.” “Sustained investor interest, Investment pledges made by growing investments from OFWs, China amount to $24 billion worth robust BPO sector, inflow of milof infrastructure and financing lennial workforce will further deals with Chinese banks and bolster the residential sector,” companies. Santos Knight Frank said. With a large amount of inSantos-Knight Frank director vestment pledges coming in for for tenant representation and infrastructure development in office agency Morgan McGilvary the Philippines from China, more said that a total of 72,000 new opportunities for the industrial units have come online last year. spaces, particularly for the manu“In terms of new supply 2016, facturing sector could rise. we’re looking at around 72,000 “The manufacturing sector will condominium units which is quite remain one of the significant driv- at par with what we’ve had in the ers of GDP uptrend. In relation to past few years and a little bit off this, it is expected that demand for of the 2012 high of 130,000 sqm,” manufacturing, warehouses and McGilvary said. industrial lots will be strong, with Moreover, Santos expressed economic zones at full-occupancy,” his overall optimism for the entire Santos-Knight Frank said. Philippine real estate market.
PH alliance with China to boost real estate growth
HSBC: PH to continue to attract FDIs... PAGE D1 Asked if Duterte’s anti-drug war could create negative impact on FDIs entering the Philippines, Fan said this may only be in the short term. “But in the medium term, FDIs will be driven by fundamentals,”
she said. China will be the country’s major source of FDIs. HSBC expects a 6.5 percent growth for the economy this year, higher than the original projection of 6.3 percent.
Duterte hosts dinner for... PAGE D1 tary Carlos G. Dominguez III, the tycoons “expressed support for the President’s call for big business to create opportunities to alleviate the economic conditions in poor communities.” “In fact, they have already sent their people to Sulu to look for opportunities to help the local communities, but because of security problems, the President asked them to focus in other areas in ARMM (the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao),” Dominguez added. Among the business tycoons who attended the event were Aboitiz Equity Ventures President Erramon Aboitiz, Ayala Corp. Chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, International Container Terminal Services Inc. Chairman Enrique Razon Jr., Lucio Tan Group President Michael Tan, Metro Pacific Investments Corp. and Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. chairman Manuel Pangilinan, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry President George Barcelon, and SM Prime Holdings, Inc. board member Hans Sy. “They are engaged in conver-
sation with the DOLE Sec. Bello. And they’re try — they are working out a win-win situation. In the words of Sec. Dominguez, that they are trying to work out a win-win situation,” Abella said. Former president and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo also attended the event. Abea added that the businessmen were there to “show their support especially for improvement in areas of poverty and crisis and the conflicts.” In a television interview, Concepcion took note that the businessmen’s preconceptions about Duterte were clarified after the dinner. “Everyone in that room was able to clear their minds on wrong perceptions that they had with the President,” Concepcion told the ABS-CBN. Last August, Duterte described influential business leaders as “monsters” for allegedly using their power solely for their own interests. “I am fighting a monster. I am just two months (into the presidency) but believe me, I will destroy their clutches in our country,” Duterte previously said.
DTI chief: Trump priorities...
PAGE D1 pez observed that the US’ new economic priorities show congruence with Duterte’s thrust to spur economic growth from domestic stimulus due to planned cuts in corporate and personal income tax, to encourage reinvestments in research and development and innovations, other tax reform measures, public and private investment in infrastructure, and increased participation of small and medium enterprises. “Main concerns are on perceptions that he would go back to a trade protectionist stance. US leaders believe it is not protectionism per se, but leveling the playing field and adopting fair and market-based trade,” Lopez said. The trade chief said participants who know Trump well believe that US will not go to the path of anti-globalization,
but will aim to level the playing field by countering undue trade practices. According to him, the new administration would put emphasis on trade enforcement as opposed to negotiating new trade agreements. US indicated plans to withdraw from the Trans-Pacific Partnership and would like to review progress and effectiveness of the North American Free Trade Agreement. “The US cannot simply cut itself off from the rest of the world as this will hurt not only its trading partners around the world, but also the US itself, since world economies are so integrated,” Lopez said. “Participants believe it is not a zero sum game. Policies cannot be one sided only because it impacts the whole world. We have an interconnected and integrated world economy,” he added.
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Peso dips to P50:$1 as market view turns to US
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by Mayvelin
U. Caraballo ManilaTimes.net
The Philippine peso slumped to the P50:$1 mark at the opening session on Thursday, Jan. 19 as the market refocused on the US after Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen expressed a positive view of the US economy. The peso regained some pace to finish trade on the Philippine Dealing System at P49.98. Still, it was the weakest finish for the local currency since Dec. 22, 2016, when it closed at P49.995:$1. The first time the currency hit the P50:$1 mark was on Nov. 24, 2008. “Fed Chair Yellen’s positive view of the US economy, which is near or at the Fed’s goal, while inflation in December was at 2.1 percent – this resulted in higher US yields,” ING Bank Manila senior economist Joey Cuyegkeng said. Yellen said on Wednesday (Thursday in Manila) at the Commonwealth Club in San Francisco, “Now it’s fair to say the economy is near maximum employment
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Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen
and inflation is moving toward our goal.” She added, “Although inflation has been running below our 2 percent objective for quite some time, we have seen it start inching back toward 2 percent last year as the job market continued to improve
and as the effects of a big drop in oil prices faded.” Besides this, the peso was also weighed down by caution ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump’s inaugural on Friday (Saturday in Manila), Cuyegkeng said.
Dela Peña
Philstar.com
MANILA - Remittances from overseas Filipino workers (OFW) grew to $2.4 billion in November last year, aided by steady job orders overseas. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported on Monday, Jan 16 that cash sent by overseasbased Flipinos increased by 18.4 percent in November last year from a year ago. This brought total remittances for the first 11 months of 2016 to $26.9 billion, up 5.1 percent from the same period a year ago. The bulk of remittances came from land-based workers with contracts for one year or more who sent back a total of $20.9 billion, up 7.8 percent from a year ago. This made up for the 3.6 percent drop in remittances from sea-based and land-based workers with work contracts of less than one year amounting to $5.5 billion. Cash remitted through banks rose 18.5 percent in November ahead of the holiday season to $2.2 billion. At the end of the first 11 months, remittances reached $24.3 billion, representing a 5.2 percent increase from the 2015
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level. Cash remittances from landbased workers went up $1.4 billion, compensating for the P200 million decrease in sea-based workers’ remittance amid stiffer competition in the supply of seafarers particularly from east Asia and eastern euope. “The improving global economic conditions particularly in the US may have contbutd to the overall growth in remittances,” the BSP said.
The bulk of cash remittances came from the US, Saudi Arabia, UAe, Singapore, UK, Japan, Qatar, Kuwait, hong Kong, and Germany. Combined remittances from these countries accounted for more than 80 percent of the total cash remittances from January to November last year. Remittances from overseasbased Filipinos largely fuel household consumption. They play a crucial role in the economy’s growth.
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The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported yesterday that cash sent by overseas-based Flipinos increased by 18.4 percent in November last year from a year ago. This brought total remittances for the first 11 months of 2016 to $26.9 billion, up 5.1 percent from the same period a year ago.
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Photo shows the proposed ‘Grand Central Station’ that will link three railway lines by 2019.
Deal to build ‘Grand Central Station’ signed by Reicelene Joy ignacio ManilaTimes.net
TOP conglomerates and the government on Wednesday, Jan. 18 finally signed a deal to build a “Grand Central Station” linking three railway lines, resolving their differences to enable the project to be completed by April 2019. The memorandum of agreement was signed by SM Prime Holdings, Inc., the Universal LRT Corp. unit of San Miguel Corp., Light Rail Manila Corp. and North Triangle Depot Commercial Corp., as well as the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Light Rail Transit Authority. Construction of the P2.8-billion, 13,700-square-meter common station that will link the LRT1, MRT-3 and the future MRT-7 will begin in December. “We are hoping to finish this project in April 2019, knowing that the different steps have to come into play, DOTr spokeswoman Cherrie Mercado told reporters. The common station will have three components: Area A where the platform and concourse for LRT-1 and MRT-3 will be located; Area B which will consist of two common concourses connecting Area A and Area C; and Area C, the platform and concourse of MRT-7. The portion of Area A for LRT-1 will be operated, maintained and developed by Light Rail Manila, a joint venture between Ayala Corp. and Metro Pacific Invest-
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Government and business executives pose for photos after signing a memorandum of agreement to build the P2.8-billion common station.
ments Corp. DOTr will operate and maintain the portion for MRT-3. Ayala will operate, maintain, and develop Area B, while San Miguel will be responsible for Area C. SM Prime and Ayala’s Trinoma mall will have naming rights for the common station, which will be located between the SM North EDSA and Trinoma malls. The DPWH will finance and build an underpass on EDSA, in the area where the common station will be built. “The passengers’ comfort is our priority and when we got all the principal stakeholders together, we asked them to make this their primary consideration before their business interests,” Mercado said. On July 30, 2014, during the previous Aquino administration, SM Prime asked the Supreme
Court to stop a deal to transfer the common station to the front of Ayala’s Trinoma. SM Prime secured a deal during the Arroyo administration in 2009 to build the common station in front of SM North EDSA. SM Prime, DOTr and the Light Rail Transit Authority will file a joint manifestation with the Supreme Court advising it of the agreement, thus allowing the construction of the project. The parties will seek the dismissal of the court case after the detailed designs are completed in the fourth quarter of 2017. On Monday, Quezon City lawmakers sought to defer the signing of the new deal, claiming they were not consulted. Mercado said they would be consulted once the DOTr gets the detailed engineering design for the common station.
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