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W E E W K EE N EWD K EE ENKDE N D M I D W E E K
E D I T I OE ND I T I O NI T I O N ED
E March D I T 4-7, I O2017 N
Volume 27 - No. 19 • 4 Sections – 30 Pages
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Poll shows Filipinos’ trust in US remains ‘very good’ by Dana
SioSon AJPress
PhILIPPINe President rodrigo Duterte seems to have “moderated his language” towards the United states since President Donald trump assumed office this year, an American analyst said on thursday, march 2. for ernest Bower, senior adviser of Washington-based think tank Center for strategic and International studies (CsIs), Duterte has likely “taken an op-
portunity to do a bit of a reset” after trump was elected. “We’ve gotten signals even this week that the Philippines and the United states are security partners,” Bower said. “I don’t think we’re gonna go backwards on U.s.-Philippine cooperation.” the status of the relationship between manila and Washington has been icy, following Duterte’s constant profanity-laced speeches against the U.s. government under previous Presi-
dent Barack obama. Duterte, who took office last year, announced that the Philippines would shift away from the U.s., in favor of China and russia as part of manila’s efforts to push for a new independent foreign policy. he has also said he doesn’t “feel like” sending an ambassador to the U.s. Currently the Philippine embassy in Washington, D.C. is headed by Chargé d’Affaires Patrick Chuasoto after former Ambassador Jose Cuisia
ended his term. Bower, however, remarked that the decades-long alliance between the Philippines and U.s. remains strong. the Philippine president has hinted that he is more favorable and open to working with the trump administration after the U.s. president reportedly praised the Philippines’ campaign against illegal drugs. Duterte has further said that he would not interfere with trump’s im-
USA
from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
by AJPress
Robert “Bobby” Murphy named one of the youngest billionaires in the world
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Fil-Am youths protest termination of GRP-NDFP peace talks LAst month, Philippine President rodrigo Duterte’s termination of the anticipated peace talks between the Government of the republic of the Philippines (GrP) and the National Democratic front of the Philippines (NDfP) caused a bit of controversy. In response, peace advocacy groups around the world have been urging the president to go forth with the peace talks in hopes of settling the decades-long dispute in the mindanao region. Progressive organization BAYAN UsA southern California, on monday, february 27, hosted a protest and vigil condemning the Duterte administration for terminating the peace talks and honoring the “martyrs” who died in the conflict. the protesters also called to oppose the GrP’s announcement of an “All out War,” referencing the human rights violations circulating around the country. the protest — which was held in front of the Philippine Consulate in Koreatown, Los Angeles — was a chance for young filipino Americans to show global support for the peace talks, according to eric tandoc of
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President Rodrigo Duterte
HRW on drug war: Extrajudicial killings a ‘clear modus operandi’ of cops
DATELINE Fil-Am co-founder of Snapchat worth $4 billion as company enters stock market the introduction of the smartphone in the mid-2000s and the genesis of the startup business culture ushered in a new wave of entrepreneurs who are making billions through technological innovations. one of those billionaires is filipino-American robert “Bobby” murphy, who, along with business partner and best friend evan spiegel, founded snapchat, a popular photo and video-sharing social media platform. on thursday, march 2, a little under six years since snapchat first launched, the company entered the New York stock exchange (NYse). According to forbes, murphy and spiegel are now worth about $4 billion each, which is $1 billion more than what facebook valued them in 2013 when it unsuccessfully tried to buy snapchat. murphy, 28, acts as the Chief technology
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STRIPPED. Handout photo shows naked inmates at the Cebu jail sitting during a joint raid by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Cebu provincial police. The inmates of the Cebu provincial jail were woken before dawn on February 28, herded into the jail’s quadrangle and forced to strip while anti-drug agents, police and military searched their cells, prison officer Rafael Espina said.
AN international human rights group claimed that the Philippine National Police (PNP) plays a hand in the extrajudicial killings linked to the government’s controversial war against narcotics. since Philippine President rodrigo Duterte took office and launched the campaign against illegal drugs last July, more than 7,000 people have been reportedly killed. of the total number of deaths, the PNP said 2,500 drug suspects were killed for allegedly resisting arrest (nanlaban) during legitimate police operations; while the remaining number were “deaths under investigation” or killings conducted by mostly unknown
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Photo courtesy of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
Pacquiao vs Khan International groups seek De Lima’s match set on May 20 release, stop to ‘political persecution’ by Dana
SioSon AJPress
of harassment against her and other public critics of the government.” tWo international human Justice secretary Vitaliano rights and anti-drug organiza- Aguirre, however, said that the tions are calling on the Philip- cases filed against the senator pine government for the imme- are all “criminal in nature” and diate release of senator Leila De are “not politically motivated.” Lima, who was recently arrested De Lima, who has been a vofor drug-related charges. cal critic of Philippine President on a statement, Internation- rodrigo Duterte’s war against al Commission of Jurists (ICJ) illegal drugs, was arrested on branded De Lima’s arrest as “po- february 24 for allegedly violatlitically motivated,” claiming that ing the republic Act No. 9165 or the charges against the senator the Comprehensive Dangerous are “fabricated.” Drugs Act of 2002. ICJ urged the government to the senator also previously led “immediately release” the sena- an investigation on the cases of tor and to “stop any further acts u PAGE A2 Senator Leila De Lima by Dana
fILIPINo boxing champion manny “Pacman” Pacquiao’s next fight will be against Britain’s Amir Khan, his adviser, michael Koncz, disclosed on Wednesday, march 1. According to Koncz, instead of the earlier announced date of April 23, Pacquiao’s next match was rescheduled to may. “We decided to move it to may 19 here [in Las Vegas] and may 20 in the United [Arab] emirates so we’d have time to promote it properly and make it a huge success,” Koncz told Yahoo sports. top rank chief executive Bob Arum earlier endorsed Pacquiao’s match against Australian Jeff horn in April at the suncorp stadium, but Koncz confirmed on Wednesday that Arum is “in full support of manny fighting Amir in the United Arab emirates.”
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SioSon AJPress
Initiative to combat homelessness in LA County on March 7 ballot Measure H expected to raise $355-M annually for homeless services, prevention by ChriStina
M. oriel
AJPress
fILIPINo-American David Abaya spent the past seven years roaming the streets of Los Angeles after his parents kicked him out of the house for abusing drugs and alcohol. Abaya, 33, recounted that losing a steady source of income and a roof over his head led to a deeper dependence on various substances. however, his circumstances changed last year when he was taken in by special service for Groups (ssG) Alliance — a nonprofit health and human service organization in downtown LA — which has guided him towards a road to recovery and a more stable Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) leaders and organizations gathered on Monday, February 27 to speak about why AAPI communities
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need the resources Measure H would provide.
AJPress photo by Noel Ty
A MARCH 4-7, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
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From the Front Page
HRW on drug war: Extrajudicial killings…
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vigilantes. But the New York-based group Human Rights Watch (HRW) said it has “found no such distinction” between deaths during police operations and extrajudicial killings. “Whether or not the unidentified assailants during the actual killing were police officers or merely agents of the police, the
similar modus operandi in these operations show planning and coordination by the police, and in some cases, local civilian officials,” the HRW emphasized. In its “License to Kill: Philippine Police Killings in Duterte’s ‘War on Drugs’” report released on Wednesday, March 1, the HRW claimed that the killings “were not carried out by ‘rogue’ officers or by ‘vigilantes’ operat-
ing separately from the authorities.” “Our research indicates that police involvement in the killings of drug suspects extends far beyond the officially acknowledged cases of police killings in ‘buybust’ operations,” the report read. The group said it has found the official police records of such incidents “invariably assert self-defense to justify political killings, contrary to eyewitness accounts that portray the killings as coldblooded murders of unarmed drug suspects in custody.” The HRW accused the cops of falsifying evidence to bolster claims that the suspects try to resist arrest. “No one has been meaningfully investigated, let alone prosecuted for these killings,” the report added. According to the HRW, Duterte could also be held liable for crimes against humanity, despite having no evidence to show his direct involvement in any specific operation to summarily execute any individual. “President Duterte appears to have instigated unlawful acts by the police, incited citizens to commit serious violence, and made himself criminal liable under international law for the unlawful killings as a matter of command responsibility,” the
JPE AT THE PALACE. Former senator Juan Ponce Enrile chats with President Rodrigo Duterte whom he visited in Malacañang on Wednesday. The former lawmaker gave the President advice on several issues, including national security, illegal drugs, the campaign against terrorism and the suspended peace talks with the Communist Party of he Philippines/National Democratic Front. ManilaTimes.net contributed photo
Analyst: Duterte appears to soften stance… PAGE A1 t
migration policies that could result in the deportation of undocumented Filipinos in the U.S. Despite the change in foreign policy, the United States continues to be the top foreign country trusted by Filipinos, according to a Social Weather Station (SWS) u PAGE A3 survey conducted last December
2016. The poll results, which was released on Thursday, March 2, show that the U.S. obtained an overall +59 net trust rating among Filipinos. Despite remaining in the “very good” category, however, it was lower compared to the previous +66 ratings last September of the same year. Meanwhile, China and Russia showed a significant improvement by gaining both “neutral” net trust rating of +9. In September 2016, China had a net trust score of “bad” -33, while Russia scored “poor” -17 in a September 2015 poll. Ramon Casiple, executive director of the Institute for Political
and Electoral Reform, told BusinessWorld that Trump’s anti-immigrant policy likely brought a “negative effect” to the trust ratings, while the “news of China and Russia friendly overtures and offers of aid has positive effect.” Apart from the United States, China and Russia, the SWS also included Australia and Japan in its poll. Australia and Japan were tied as the second most trusted countries among Filipinos, both obtaining a “good” +37 trust rating. With a total of 1,500 respondents nationwide, the survey has sampling error margins of ±3 percent. The results were first published by Business World. n
International groups seek… PAGE A1 t
extrajudicial killings in the country since Duterte took office. Sam Zarifi, ICJ’s Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, said that the move against De Lima is “clearly meant to silence for good a vocal critic” of Duterte. “If the government really wants to defeat the illegal drug trade, there should be more prosecutions before domestic courts. We do not see this, however. We only
see active persecution of those who are critical of the President’s ‘war on drugs,” Zafiri added. In a separate statement, Global Commission on Drug Policy also expressed its hope that the “presumption of innocence will be upheld and that Senator de Lima will soon be released from pretrial detention.” The commission also reiterated its message to Duterte that
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From the Front page
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • MARCH 4-7, 2017
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International groups seek De Lima’s… PAGE A2 t
his war on drugs “is misguided and unwinnable and comes at an unbearable cost to the people and their communities.” “The use of proportionate sentences for small players in the drug market, relying on intelligence and infiltration to track senior traffickers and criminals, and implementing prevention and harm reduction measures to support people who use drugs, are more effective and far less costly responses to drugs, and uphold the rule of law and the dignity and human rights of all
citizens,” it added. Malacañang hits CNN Malacañang called out CNN International for airing a report on Wednesday, March 1, saying De Lima’s arrest “smacked of political persecution.” “To even insinuate that De Lima’s arrest is political in nature contradicts established facts and mocks the country’s commitment to due process and the rule of law,” Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said. Abella emphasized anew that the senator was arrested for “drug trafficking charges” and
for “allegedly receiving money from drug dealers at the National Penitentiary.” “All these nefarious activities were said to have been conducted by the Senator when she served as Secretary of Justice (20102015) during the Aquino administration,” he added, reiterating that the court found a “sufficient probable cause for the issuance of the warrants of arrest.” Abella then challenged the CNN International “to provide the proper context in its telecasts in the interest of fairness and truthfulness in reporting.” n
Initiative to combat homelessness in LA… PAGE A1 t housing situation. “They have helped me with shelter, clothes and housing. I’ve been very blessed because without it, I would still be on the streets, doing drugs, relapsing and not being able to back myself up or have financial stability,” he told the Asian Journal, proudly sharing that he is marking six months of sobriety. This coming Tuesday, March 7, community organizations such as SSG Alliance have a stake in the local election as a ballot measure could bring additional much-needed resources to them so they can have the backing to continue assisting more individuals like Abaya. One of the items voters in Los Angeles County will decide on is Measure H (“Los Angeles County Plan to Prevent and Combat Homelessness”), which would raise the sales tax by one-quarter of a cent in all cities within the county. In turn, the expected revenue of $355 million annually will go to homeless services — prevention, support like mental health care and job training, and permanent housing — over the next 10 years. Proponents of the measure estimate that it will prevent homelessness for 30,000 individuals and end it for 45,000 across the county within five years. Those individuals include, but are not limited to, children, foster youth, seniors, battered women, the disabled and veterans. In 2016, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) estimates that 46,874 people experienced homelessness, which was nearly a 6 percent increase from the year before.
LENT STARTS. A priest at the St. Peter’s parish church in Quezon City marks the forehead of a parishioner as Catholics around the world marked Ash Wednesday, the official start of Lent. ManilaTimes.net photo by Mike De Juan
Pacquiao vs Khan match set on May…
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As of 2016, 46,874 people in LA County experienced homelessness, according to the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority. AJPress photo by Christina M. Oriel
The complexity of homelessness in AAPI communities Of that figure, only 726 were categorized as Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs). Since last September, 5 percent of 1,700 young adults (age 1825) self-reported that they identify as AAPI, according to LAHSA’s youth systems integration manager, Angela Rosales. Many organizations serving AAPIs say the 726 count is not very representative and does not capture the nuances of the population, including a breakdown of specific ethnicities, such as Filipino, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese, among others. “What is distinct is that there are a lot AAPIs who are not part of the statistic of the 700-some AAPIs who are homeless in LA County. There are far more in the normal population who are hidden homeless because of the stigmas, especially on mental health and substance abuse,” said Chris Ko, director of homelessness initiatives for the United Way of Greater Los Angeles,
“We’ll be able to properly promote it and while it will be a Friday in the U.S., it will be a Saturday there. We were going to do it originally on a Sunday there, but that’s the start of their work week and we didn’t feel at the end of the day that would make as much sense,” Koncz said. In a poll on February 12, Pacquiao, with a record of 59-6-2 win-loss-draw, asked his Twitter followers who should be his next opponent, citing the UAE as the venue. Khan, with a record of 31-4-0, was the runaway winner of the survey. Khan gained 48 percent of the more than 44,800 total votes. “When I saw Amir ran away with it, I figured most of the votes from from England and a lot of them came from the [UAE], but they told me that 86 percent of them were from the U.S.,” Koncz said. Meanwhile, Horn only received 7 percent, while Kell Brook and Terence Crawford got 24 percent and 21 percent, respectively. “That meant a lot. Obviously, Amir’s a big name in the U.S., too, as well as in England [where he
lives] and people saw it for what it is: A toss-up fight against two fast-handed guys,” Koncz added. In an interview with ABS-CBN News, Khan shared his excitement to collide against Pacquiao, who also was also his former training partner. “Manny and I are friends but I think I have my youth, and I’ve been a two-division champion,” Khan said. n
WBO world welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao and Amir Khan say they have agreed to terms for a fight on April 23. Inquirer.net photo
HRW on drug war: Extrajudicial killings… Filipino-American David Abaya, 33, shares his experience living on the streets and calls on Fil-Am voters to vote ‘yes’ on Measure H.
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HRW said, recommending that the United Nations open an independent investigation into AJPress photo by Noel Ty this. which is one of the lead advoThe HRW then called on the cates of Measure H. Philippine administration to deAccording to LAHSA, the fac- nounce the extrajudicial killings. tors of chronic homelessness, It also urged the government mental illness, substance abuse, to “impartially and transparentand physical disabilities contrib- ly” investigate and prosecute the ute to a large share of the gen- alleged abuses during anti-drug eral homeless population. operations. Many AAPIs may not fit un‘Thoughtless, irresponsible’ u PAGE A4 Malacañang, meanwhile,
slammed the HRW for its supposed “thoughtless and irresponsible” report. “The observation that the Philippines is in the midst of a ‘human rights calamity’ is thoughtless and irresponsible,” Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement. He added, “Is it a human rights calamity when the sheer scope and magnitude of an emerging narco-state have been exposed?” Abella also dismissed the
claims of the supposed planting of evidence to justify police action as a mere “allegation, nothing more.” He then stressed that the government’s drug war is a not “a war on humanity” but a “war on criminality.” “It is a war precisely to protect humanity from a modernday evil. To say otherwise is to undermine society’s legitimate desire to be free from fear and to pander to the interests of the criminals,” Abella added. n
From the Front page
A MARCH 4-7, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
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Fil-Am co-founder of Snapchat worth $4 billion‌ PAGE A1 t
Officer (CTO) of Snap Inc. (the parent company created in 2016 that includes Snapchat, Spectacles and the Bitmoji app), in charge of the scientific and technology side of the company. Described as a friendly, laidback guy, Murphy makes the magic happen behind the scenes, authoring the app’s code even to this day. Where Murphy is considered the “brains� of the company, Spiegel, 26, is considered the face of the company, akin to Ap-
ple’s Steve Jobs and Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg. “It’s often a case where the other person appreciates the fact that they can be unknown, stay behind the scenes and walk around without being noticed,� Ryan Jacob of Jacob Asset Management told the Los Angeles Times. “Some can’t believe it, but believe me, there’s a lot of people who enjoy that.� Murphy is the son of a Filipina mother, Rosie L. Go-Murphy, and Richard Murphy, Jr., who has English, Scottish and Irish
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descent. Murphy was born in Berkeley, California and attended Catholic school before attending Stanford University, where he graduated in 2010 with a degree in mathematical and computational science. In college, Murphy met Spiegel at the Kappa Sigma fraternity house and became instant friends. In an interview with Forbes that both he and Spiegel were not “cool�, so they “tried to build things to be cool.� After a failed attempt at working on a startup called Future Freshman, a website designed to assist prospective college students with advice for college, Spiegel approached Murphy to create something new. Murphy was the one who created an image-sharing app in which images disappear after they’ve been viewed called Picaboo; this became the foundation for what is now known as Snapchat. In just over five years, Snapchat has grown into one of the most prominent social media platforms in the world. As of February 2017, there are about 160 million daily active users on Snapchat, sending about 2.5 billion Snaps every day, surpassing Twitter in daily usage. Murphy maintains a low profile and currently lives in Venice, California just a few blocks away from Snapchat’s headquarters. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)
Fil-Am youths‌ PAGE A1 t
Anakbayan - Long Beach. “There’s a widespread desire from the people from the Philippines and people are calling for the continuation of the peace talks,� Tandoc told the Asian Journal. “There’s been over a 100 people in Congress and folks holding rallies for it. And it’s important for [Duterte] to know that Filipinos overseas are also paying attention and want to see successful peace talks between the NDFP and the GRP.� The protest began with a series of chants which caught the attention of passersby and nearby drivers, some of whom honked back in support. “When human rights are under attack, what do we do? Stand up, fight back!� the group of young Fil-Ams yelled out. Different representatives from organizations under BAYAN-USA gave their testimonies on why the peace talks are important in moving the
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STANDING HER GROUND. Vice President Leni Robredo (second from right, in face mask and surgical gown) talks with one of the doctors of Operation Smile at the operating room of the Visayas Community Medical Center on Friday, March 3. Robredo told reporters on Friday that she would continue to voice out her her stand on issues even if these ran counter to the policies of the administration. Photo from the Office of the Vice President
Initiative to combat homelessness in LA‌
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der the widespread image of homelessness (e.g. living on the streets or in encampments) and could be couch surfing, living in their cars, or cycling in and out of shelters. “Their homelessness episodes don’t always fit the mainstream definition so sometimes they lose out in terms of housing voucher applications or qualifying for benefits,� Trang Hoang, division director of the SSG Alliance, said. “It’s important for us to broaden the definition and look at the different categories of homelessness. Homeless services aren’t so clear cut and finding housing isn’t always the primary solution for a particular individual.� For the Fil-Am community, the issue is more about finding sustainable and affordable housing, given that many — especially newer immigrants — may be on the brink of homelessness. “Many Filipinos, when they come here, they’re living with relatives or are trying to get their feet on the ground. They’re often in jobs that are low paying and they have to find a way to live,� Grace Weltman, founder of Communities in Motion, said. Another matter is that FilAms who work in home health care may be dependent on their employers for housing. If the individuals they’re taking care of pass away, they could be left without a home. Like other AAPI cultures, it is typical for Fil-Ams not to be vocal about their financial problems and not access public assistance. “Luckily Filipinos have support systems through our families and people we know from our hometowns in the event of certain crises. But things like Measure H and Proposition HHH are there to provide real, sustainable resources to make sure that if you reach a crisis, you don’t have to ask your tito (uncle) or tita (aunt) for some money or to live in their living room for a month,� said Michael Nailat, program officer for Home for Good, a partnership between United Way of Greater Los Angeles and the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce. (Proposition HHH was passed in the city of LA last November to fund housing projects for the homeless.) In recent years, more encampments have expanded on the streets of Historic Filipinotown. Though the neighborhood is not a centralized hub for the Fil-Am population in LA County, compared to areas like Koreatown, Fil-Ams who support Measure
On Tuesday, March 7, voters in Los Angeles County will decide on Measure H, which proposes a one-quarter of a cent increase in the sales tax to raise revenue for homeless services AJPress photo by Noel Ty
H urge other voters to recognize that homelessness is a prevalent problem that impacts the community, even if it is considered taboo to talk about it. “It’s affecting the local economy. I used to be able to walk with my grandmother to the local market in Historic Filipinotown‌but now when I go there, there is a huge homeless population,â€? Weltman said. “I think it’s also time for the Fil-Am community to also get involved to see what we can do collectively to address this regional problem.â€? Nailat added that it is important the community knows that there are resources available to treat mental health issues, which could go a long away in lessening chronic homelessness. “People tend to find it harder and harder to pull themselves out of these situations,â€? he said. “It’s really about thinking of the health of the Fil-Am community as a whole‌and part of that and making sure that Fil-Ams are not growing in ranks in terms of the homeless population is to really value the access to resources now and that we support the nonprofits in the community like Pilipino Workers Center, Filipino American Service Group, Inc., and Search to Involve Pilipino Americans.â€? Because of the low reported figures — compared to say, African Americans who comprise 39 percent of the homeless data — AAPIs anticipate that Measure H will bring more funding and resources to the organizations helping their communities’ homeless populations. “The shame around issues like mental health comes from the idea that it is a death sentence for that person so we try to distance ourselves from that, but what I want to say is that lives can be restored,â€? Ko said. “Asian communities typically have fewer resources to help, so that’s why additional support and investment are important.â€? Get out the vote For Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) trustee
Mike Eng, if Measure H gets the two-thirds majority needed to pass, he wants to assemble all the elected AAPIs in the county to hold a roundtable and demand that those services be allocated to their communities. “The stereotype is that Asians are not homeless, that is wrong. Number two is that Asians don’t vote for tax increases. That is wrong because they will vote if they see how this will benefit their community,� Eng said. Though opposition against Measure H is not as vocal as the organized support (over $1 million had been raised in favor of it as of January, according to the Los Angeles Times), some critics argue that this will make sales taxes even higher and the 10,000 units of proposed housing would benefit only a small percentage in relation to the greater homeless population. The measure also calls for the creation of an independent Citizens’ Oversight Advisory Board and annual audits to ensure that the funds are allocated for their intended purposes. “The tax is really, really small but it goes a long way,� Nailat said. “We want to make sure that, especially with the uncertainty on the federal level, we support these local efforts because we know what our community needs.� Leading up to next Tuesday, March 7, AAPIs are reminding registered voters in their communities that there is an election. Though it may not have been as publicized as the general election in November, the initiatives on the ballot will be more impactful locally. “The easiest thing that can help homelessness is also the most impactful thing. Literally voting on March 7 will make the biggest difference,� Ko said. “There’s never been one single act that has honestly had a bigger effect on homelessness than this.� Asian Journal editor Christina M. Oriel wrote this story with support from New America Media.
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Dateline USa
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New coalition of community and legal groups launched to protect immigrant workers
MASS FOR EJK VICTIMS. People look at photos of their family members, who they say were killed due to their involvement in illegal drugs before a Holy Eucharist mass action at the National Shrine of Our Mother of Perfetual Help in Baclaran, Paranaque City on Thursday, March 2. Inquirer.net photo by Joan Bondoc
With ‘Trumpcare’ on horizon, voters go wobbly on repeal by Jay
Hancock California Healthline
AS candidate Donald Trump hammered the Affordable Care Act last year as “a fraud,” “a total disaster” and “very bad health insurance,” more Americans than not seemed to agree with him. Now that President Trump and fellow Republicans show signs of keeping their promise to dump the law, many appear to be having second thoughts. Multiple polls show rising support for the ACA, including two recent ones indicating Americans feel more positively about it than ever. True, many still dislike what’s known as Obamacare. One survey showed 42 percent see it unfavorably while 48 percent viewed it favorably. But as the national conversation swells on the fate of a law that affects millions of people in multifaceted ways — and the is-
sue takes center stage at raucous town hall meetings — it’s increasingly clear that many Americans don’t see the ACA as an either-or proposition. “At first it was a good deal — that was three or four years ago,” said Mark Bunkosky, 56, an independent contractor in Michigan who buys coverage through one of the law’s online portals. “Every year it’s gone up. From where it started, the premium has doubled, and now my deductible has also doubled. And my income has not doubled.” Bunkosky, a Republican, views the ACA unfavorably but believes Washington should fix it, not toss it. He supports keeping some of the law’s Medicaid coverage for low-income people and its prohibition on discriminating against those with preexisting illness. This week Trump acknowledged that health care is “so complicated.” So are voter opin-
Fil-Ams hold vigil urging PH govt to continue peace talks.
AJPress photo by Ding Carreon
Fil-Am youths protest termination…
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Philippines forward, socially and economically. They also held up signs, including a few that showed photos and the names of activists who were killed while fighting for peace in the region. “It seems as if he made a rash decision to say that he was going terminate the peace talks because of the armed clashes that happened, but what’s important for him to recognize is that ceasefires are not a requisite for peace talks to continue,” Tandoc added. “In all the previous administrations there has been peace talks and progress in the peace talks even without ceasefires on either side during the duration.” Tandoc added that the ceasefires didn’t stop the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) from continuing military operations (including assassinations of activists) “under the guise of peace and development.” Duterte had lifted the sixmonth ceasefire on Friday, February 3 after rebel forces rejected their own truce days before and killed six AFP soldiers. He also
warned that if the NDFP and any other rebel forces — calling them “terrorists,” not rebels — try to fight back, they will be met with violence. “It seems to me that these terrorists want another 50 years of war, of killing Filipinos,” Duterte told reporters at the wake of three of the soldiers who were killed. “I don’t want a bloody thing, but if they choose to do it, fine,” the president said. “With my lifting of the ceasefire, they can begin their attacks and we are prepared and I will use the assets. We have so many planes now, we have jets [and] I will drop all [the bombs].” Despite his threats to react violently should the rebels continue their attacks, he urged them to seize their rebellion and, in return, they will receive offers of land reform and housing in their regions. “I’m offering you peace,” the president said, addressing the NDFP. “You should just come down and I will look for money to place you in settlements and I will proceed with land reform.” (By Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)
LOS ANGELES — Amid growing anti-immigrant and anti-refugee rhetoric, Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Los Angeles (Advancing Justice-LA) and the Wage Justice Center are launching a new coalition to protect the rights of vulnerable and lowwage immigrant workers. The Immigrant Workplace Justice Coalition (“Coalition”) will focus its work on east Los Angeles County, including the greater San Gabriel Valley, and is composed of nine community organizations, legal service groups, and worker centers: Advancing Justice-LA, Asian Youth Center, California Healthy Nail Salon Collaborative, CLEAN Carwash Campaign, Koreatown Immigrant Workers Alliance, National Day Laborer Network, Pilipino Workers Center, Restaurant Opportunities Center - Los Angeles,
and Wage Justice Center. Immigrants comprise more than one-third of residents in Los Angeles County and nearly half of the labor force. Asians and Latinos make up the majority of the San Gabriel Valley; more than 500,000 Asian Americans and 700,000 Latinos live there, most are first generation immigrants. A large portion of immigrants in the region work in agriculture, repair and personal services, and manufacturing industries. Despite this fact, legal and community resources to serve immigrant workers has been scarce. With reports of immigration raids occurring in workplaces, such as the recent raids of Asian restaurants in Mississippi, in which over 50 immigrants were detained by Immigration and Customs En-
forcement, it is now more important than ever for low-wage, immigrant workers to not only know their rights as employees, but to know their rights as immigrants as well. “According to a community needs assessment that we recently conducted in the San Gabriel Valley among low-wage immigrant Chinese workers, the number one reason why workers do not demand better treatment at work is because they do not know their rights as employees,” said Nicole Gon Ochi, supervising attorney at Advancing Justice-LA. “Workers also stay silent because they fear retaliation or not being able to secure another job. Immigrant workers are particularly vulnerable because their status is often tied to their employer and their employment options are
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ions on what to do next with the ACA, which expanded coverage to some 20 million. “I didn’t like that it mandated people to carry health insurance. And I thought it was just a lie” when it promised affordability, said Amber Alexander, 27, a Pennsylvania independent whose seasonal income puts her on Medicaid in winter and a commercial plan the rest of the year. However, she said, “I don’t Members of the Immigrant Workplace Justice Coalition, speakers from the press conference, and Asian Youth Center’s staff on Friday,
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March 3
Photo courtesy of Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Los Angeles
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Fil-Am student dies in Indiana car crash LAX FlyAway Hollywood bus stop moves to new location
A 20-YEAR-old Filipina-American nursing student has died in a car crash in Gary, Indiana. The news site of Chicago Tribune reported that Samantha Salvador, a resident of Hoffman Estates, Illinois, was one of the three passengers of a green Honda Civic that crashed Thursday night last week. The Honda Civic, driven by 19year-old Rose Katcher, was on 165 in Gary when she tried to take a left turn onto US-20, but due to the foggy climate in the area, they crashed onto a concrete median and then bumped a Chevrolet Malibu that was heading on 1-65. Heavily injured, Salvador passed away while being taken to Northlake Hospital, while her two other schoolmates, Sammy Walus and Lindsay Hofmeister were confined in separate hospitals. Katcher suffered minor injuries. Salvador, who hails from Bacolod City, was taking up nursing at Valparaiso University in Indi-
LOS ANGELES — The Hollywood stop for the FlyAway® nonstop bus service to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has moved to 1627 North Vine Street, effective Wednesday, March 1. The new location is on the west side of Vine, one-half block south of Hollywood Boulevard and one-tenth of a mile northwest from its previous location, where construction necessitates the change. “In addition to Hollywood being a world-class destination, it is also a neighborhood that needs Photo from Samantha Salvador/Facebook convenient, affordable transana, which organized a prayer Facebook update read. portation options to LAX,” said A close friend of Salvador set Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell, vigil for Salvador and her recovup a GoFundMe page to assist whose District 13 includes the ering friends. “Earlier this week, we lost a the family in raising funds for bus stop. “This new location on beloved member of our campus her funeral expenses. The page Vine Street south of Hollywood community, student Samantha has raised $19,075 (P956,000), Boulevard is in a prime location Salvador, as a result of a car acci- exceeding its $4,000 (P200,000) next to public parking and near dent involving three of her fellow target. (Gianna Francesca Catolnursing classmates,” the school’s ico / Inquirer.net)
LA mayor, city council celebrate final purchase of land to restore river LOS ANGELES—Mayor Eric Garcetti on Friday, March 3, led a celebration of the close of escrow on nearly 42 acres of property at the center of plans to revitalize the Los Angeles River. The G2 parcel is the final remnant of the 250-acre Taylor Yard owned by Union Pacific Railroad. “We’ve always considered G2 to be the crown jewel in our vision to revitalize the L.A. River, and that’s why I have been committed to fighting for the resources to finally return this land to the people of Los Angeles and the wildlife that call it home,” said Garcetti in a statement. “We got it done, and now this vast site can transform how Angelenos connect with the natural world — because it will allow for habitat restoration, and open more
than a mile of direct access to the river for local communities that have been cut off from it for too long.” Taylor Yard is on the east bank of the L.A. River, north of downtown in the community of Cypress Park. The surrounding parcels at Taylor Yard have already been developed into Rio de Los Angeles State Park, the Sonia Sotomayor Learning Academies, and the Taylor Yard Transit Village. The G2 parcel will connect Rio de Los Angeles State Park with the Bowtie parcel, another State Park site — opening up more than one mile of direct riverfront access. Mayor Garcetti worked closely with State Senate President pro Tem Kevin de León to secure $25 million in state funding toward the City’s
purchase and development of the G2 parcel. “I’ve been focused on revitalizing the LA River for the better part of a decade, including fighting for the $25 million budget allocation that made it possible for us to acquire this parcel,” said Senate President pro Tem Kevin de León. “We have a long way to go to realize our dream of a healthy L.A. River as a vibrant social and recreational center of our city, but today the future looks brighter than ever.” “The purchase of the G2 parcel is a crucial step toward realizing Angelenos’ vision of a restored Los Angeles River. Funding for the Los Angeles River has been a top priority for me since I was
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With ‘Trumpcare’ on horizon, voters…
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think it should be thrown out altogether. There are people that do benefit from it, but there are also a lot of people that get screwed.” Carol Friendly, 67, is an Oregon Republican who voted for Hillary Clinton for president and favors the health law’s Medicaid expansion, which many Republican policymakers excoriated but has gained support among some GOP governors. She objects to the ACA’s reproductive health coverage, saying consumers opposed to birth control and abortion shouldn’t have to pay for them. On the other hand, “I know it put 22 million in the health care system that weren’t there before,” she said. “So that’s a plus.” Adding to the political fog are mixed signals from Republicans. For weeks, Trump has been promising — but not yet producing — a blueprint detailing his plan to repeal and replace the ACA with “insurance for everybody.” In his Feb. 28 address
to Congress, he said a new law “should ensure that Americans with preexisting conditions have access to coverage.” But a leaked GOP draft replacement in Congress would shrink coverage subsidies, and House conservatives complained even those were still too expensive. Just this week, congressional Republicans told reporters they were still working on “the best way to build a consensus to pass a bill to gut Obamacare.” For many helped by the health law, such a prospect has focused minds and aroused fears and may account for its rising popularity, said Simon Haeder, a political science professor and specialist on health policy at West Virginia University. “Now that we have this whole debate on replacing, repealing, repairing — whatever you want to call it — more and more of this information is coming out on what the ACA does and how it’s benefited people,” he said. “Now that’s entering the public conver-
each paying adult. Cash is not accepted. FlyAway® travel information, including links to purchase tickets, can be found at www.LAXFlyAway.org. The Hollywood FlyAway® route served 86,123 passengers during 2016. Under new management, its on-time performance was greater than 99.5 percent for the period from July 2016 to January 2017, which accounted for a total of 7,310 trips. The Hollywood service also offers free Wi-Fi. In addition to the Hollywood location, FlyAway® service is available at five other locations: Long Beach, Metro Orange Line (Van Nuys Lake Balboa area), Union Station, Van Nuys, and Westwood. More than 1.6 million people used the FlyAway® bus service in 2016. n
Missing Filipino nurse’s body found in Houston; police investigating
HOUSTON, Texas — An autopsy confirmed that a body found Saturday, February 25 was that of 44-year-old Glenser “Glenn” Soliman, a missing St. Luke’s Hospital nurse. Soliman’s body was found more than a week after he went missing. Police say a man was walking his dog at the 2800 block of Hirschfield in Houston, when he saw the body of a man under some debris. Soliman’s relatives said nothing was out of the ordinary in Soliman’s residence when he went missing. They filed a missing person report with the Harris Glenser Soliman was found dead February 25. Inquirer.net file photo County police. County Sheriff’s Homicide Unit. person. The case is now beRelatives said Soliman was a responsible, routine-oriented ing investigated by the Harris (Inquirer.net)
Report urges California leaders to prioritize wellbeing of infants, toddlers
OAKLAND, California – In this most populous and diverse state in the country and the sixth largest economy in the world, 62 percent of babies are born into low-income families each year, according to a new report, which also describes the challenges facing the states youngest children as “complex, as are solutions to providing them with the support they need.” The report, “Starting Now: A Policy Vision for Supporting the Healthy Growth and Development of Every California Baby,” released by Children Now, offers policy solutions for state and local leaders to ensure babies and toddlers—particularly those of color and those born into low income-families, who represent the majority of California’s babies and toddlers. Starting Now offers a policy roadmap to establishing a “childcentered, comprehensive and sustainable network of quality services and supports” that will u PAGE A7 ensure that all kids from before
sation.” ACA beneficiaries and activists flooded town halls held by Republican congressmen during their February recess, urging them not to repeal the law. “My story thus far has been one who has benefited from the system,” said Michael Bilodeau, 39, who attended two town halls by California Republican Rep. Tom McClintock. “We are able to see our local doctor, who we like. And our premiums have been, I would say, stable.” He co-owns a small business with his wife and is on a plan from Covered California, the state’s online marketplace. “One of the Republicans’ major arguments is that the ACA brought disruption to people’s health care,” Bilodeau said. “It feels like we’re headed toward another disruption.” Many middle- and lower-income Republicans benefit from the health law’s Medicaid expansion and marketplace subsidies.
the 101 Freeway.” “Over the years, the FlyAway® bus has become an indispensable resource for locals and visitors alike looking for convenient ways to travel to and from LAX,” said Los Angeles World Airports Deputy Executive Director for External Affairs Trevor Daley. “While the location is changing, the bus schedule between the new stop and LAX will stay the same.” Buses depart from the Hollywood bus stop to LAX every hour from 5:15 a.m. to 9:15 p.m. Buses depart LAX Terminal 1 to Hollywood every hour from 6:15 a.m. to 10:15 p.m. Bus fare is $8 one way, payable on the bus or online with American Express, MasterCard, or Visa credit or debit cards. Two children age five and under ride for free with
Up to 62 percent of California’s babies are born to low-income families.
birth to age three have equal opportunities to reach their full potential. The report’s policy roadmap takes a “whole-child approach to policy solutions,” focusing on the full spectrum of issues affecting children’s health, welfare and education. “California’s policymakers are under-investing in the state’s youngest children, to the detriment of their health and welfare, and California’s economy. Our
state’s babies and toddlers deserve better, and Starting Now represents an opportunity to solve some complex challenges together—policymakers, state leaders, providers, and parents,” Children Now President Ted Lempert said. “In a state known for innovation, we must come together to make sure that every California baby has the opportunity to reach his or her full potential—starting now,” he added. (Inquirer.net)
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LA mayor, city council celebrate… PAGE A6 t
PEACE CONVENTION. Former President Gloria Arroyo addresses the opening plenary session of the Global Peace convention held in Pasay City. To her left is foundation chairman Hyun Jin Moon. At right is South Korea’s former Finance minister Kim Jin-Pyo. Photo by Roger Ranada
With ‘Trumpcare’ on horizon, voters…
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Forty-three percent of Republicans and 57 percent of independents say Medicaid is important to their family, according to the latest tracking poll from the Kaiser Family Foundation. Many who thought Obamacare was only marketplace plans may be realizing Medicaid coverage is also in jeopardy. That’s a political hazard for Republicans who would abolish it, said Mark Peterson, a political science professor at UCLA. “A lot of that base would be most adversely affected by repealing the ACA and replacing it with something that left enormous holes for the working class,” he said. Medicaid beneficiaries “begin to recognize how they’re put at risk, and they begin talking to friends and colleagues and it becomes quite real.” Some Republican voters object to the ACA not because it expanded coverage but because it did so in such a complex way, with sliding subsidies and reliance on private insurers selling
expensive plans with narrow doctor networks. “It would have been better if the federal government had said, look, to get these 20 million insured let’s just expand Medicaid nationwide and let’s leave everybody else alone,” said Rickey Mathis, 56, a Georgian who voted for Trump and hasn’t had insurance since the factory employing him closed in 2012. “Why did they have to screw up the whole country’s health insurance?” Franchesca Serrano, 31, looked at marketplace plans in Florida, where she lives, but they “really wouldn’t cover anything” because of large deductibles — the care costs that patients pay before insurance kicks in. “Any of the referrals I needed, blood work I needed done, it would have needed to come out-ofpocket — a lot.” She’s a single mother who voted for Clinton. Her 2-year-old twins are on Medicaid, which she said is “way better than just the Obamacare” sold through the marketplaces.
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relatively narrow if they do not have work papers. Through our coalition, we will invest significant resources into East Los Angeles County region to educate immigrant workers about their workplace rights and provide them with the tools to enforce their rights regardless of status, which has never been more crucial than it is today.” In 2017, the Coalition will conduct 15 trainings for low-wage workers and three trainings for
small business owners across east Los Angeles County and the San Gabriel Valley. The first workshop, targeted at workers, is Sunday, March 12 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm at the Asian Youth Center. This workshop will address workplace rights as well as immigration issues. For more information about presentations and clinics, individuals can contact Advancing Justice-LA’s helplines at 888349-9695 (English) or 855-3002552 (Tagalog). n
She’s not expecting any improvements. “I think once Trumpcare comes out, we’re screwed,” she said. Michigan’s Bunkosky, a contractor for heating and air conditioning, urged Republicans to think hard about any Obamacare replacement. “Everybody’s in a hurry for it, but they need to sit down and do it right,” he said. “Some of it is still a good idea. You shouldn’t have to worry about preexisting conditions.” This story was produced by Kaiser Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation. n
elected to the State Assembly in 2012,” said Assemblymember Jimmy Gomez. “I have continued advocating for the river since then, whether it be carrying legislation to put polluter fees to work for the Los Angeles River, or ensuring we are well represented in state water-bond negotiations. I am particularly proud to have worked with Senate Pro Tempore Kevin De León to secure a contribution of $25 million from the State of California towards the purchase of the G2 parcel, which will greatly enhance Angelenos’ enjoyment of the river by opening up a mile of direct public access.” On January 27, the City Council voted to approve the purchase, with an allocation of nearly $60 million. “My colleagues and I were relentless in making sure the City negotiated a fiscally responsible purchase and sales agreement to acquire the Taylor Yard G2 site,” said Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell. “Today, Angelenos now own the largest available piece of property along our Los Angeles River. Parcel G2 is a keystone for habitat restoration identified in our Los Angeles River Revitalization Master Plan, and I commend the Chief Legislative Analyst, the City Administrative Officer, the City Attorney’s office, the Bureau of Engineering, my staff, and the Mayor’s office for the tremendous lift to acquire this asset for all of Los Angeles to enjoy.”
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(213) 487-8500 • (909) 895-7004 NLFLAW@GMAIL.COM 21671 Gateway Center Drive, Suite 103 Diamond Bar, CA 91765
The G2 parcel is prioritized in both the City’s Los Angeles River Revitalization Master Plan and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Los Angeles River Ecosystem Restoration project, which was approved by the U.S. Congress in 2016. Because of its size and location along a softbottomed stretch of the river, G2 can help restore riparian habitat, while also providing expansive new public views into Downtown and to the iconic Griffith Observatory and Hollywood Sign landmarks. “It has been a process to se-
cure the G2 site in Council District 1, but we have finally done it,” said Councilmember Gil Cedillo. “G2 is the most integral part of the L.A. River Revitalization Master Plan for Northeast L.A., for it is the only direct access point to the river from the communities in our district. It is the beginning of the future for the L.A. River as we imagine it.” The City will now begin planning for beneficial public site use and site remediation in coordination with the State’s Department of Toxic Substances Control. n
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OpiniOn
Features
Accession to the climate deal
AFTER repeatedly lambasting the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, President Duterte approved the deal last Tuesday. Support for the climate treaty by most of his Cabinet members probably contributed to the President’s change of heart. This brings the nation just one step short of acceding to the binding global deal approved in 2015 to cut greenhouse gas emissions and keep increases in global temperature to “well below” 2 degrees Celsius. Under the deal, Manila is committing to reduce its carbon emissions by 70 percent by 2030. The final step is Senate concurrence, but this is expected to be easier after the climate deal received the President’s official imprimatur. A 70 percent cut is an ambitious goal for a developing country with limited resources for going green, and which can’t even effectively implement a law passed way back in 1999 to deal with air pollution. To fulfill commitments to the climate deal, the President is banking on the country’s access to a global fund to be set up by wealthy countries by 2020 amounting to about $100 billion a year. The nation, however, cannot wait until 2020 to begin abiding by its international commitments to confront climate change. International climate ex-
perts have warned that the Philippines is among the most vulnerable to the adverse impact of global warming. Even without access to the Green Climate Fund, the country must do what it can to reduce its carbon footprint. The President is correct in stressing that abiding by the climate deal must not significantly curtail industrialization efforts by developing states like the Philippines. He also understands that millions of impoverished Filipinos depend on economic activities that contribute to the degradation of the environment. But the nation can aim to strike a balance in the debates on climate change. With the nation now committed to the climate deal, more effort can be undertaken and investments made in climate resilience. People can understand what’s at stake in making development sustainable. The President’s approval of the deal is a welcome step. The hard part is complying with the nation’s international commitments. (Philstar.com)
Guest Editorial
Philstar.com photo
Is Duterte’s war on drugs a ‘crime against humanity’? Fil-Ams weigh in THE latest Human Rights Watch (HRW) The Fil-Am report says Philippine President Rodrigo Perspective Duterte may be held responsible for the extrajudicial killings in his war on drugs, Gel sAntos-relos which has claimed the lives of about 7,000 people involved in the drug trade since he took office last July. HRW says these sanctions may be considered “crimes against humanity.” Duterte fired back, arguing that there is no “humanity” to speak of when it comes to criminals involved in the drug menace. “I never denied that I ordered the operation. I declared war. Bakit masama bang sabihing papatay ako ng tao para sa bayan ko? Is there a crime? It’s a warning to stop” Duterte said. “As long as you continye to destroy my country, I will kill you!” As The Filipino Channel’s daily newscast “Balitang America” reported, this news came as no surprise to kababayans in the United States. Balitang America LA Correspondent
Steve Angeles spoke to Fil-Ams who have mixed reactions to the report. Fil-Am Community Leader Art Garcia said, “The problem is — the Duterte administration is still denying and basically discounting the Human Rights Watch. It’s the same with the Marcos administration who did not accept the human rights violations were prevalent in the Philippines but [were] proven in court.’ “Duterte is in denial. His other officials are in denial. And they won’t even allow the United Nations investigation in the Philippines. If he’s really open, let the United Nations do the proper thing and investigate what’s happening,” Garcia asserted. Dondi Monzon is an activist who supported Duterte during the election. However, he expressed disappointment in the way Duterte has been fulfilling his campaign promise. “I support Duterte because I want this drug problem to go away,” Monzon said, “but at the same time it is the method of
getting rid of the drug problem [I have concerns about]. So if there are human rights violations, please stop it.” On the other hand, U.S. Pinoys for Real Change in the Philippines (USPRCP) Chairperson Atty. Arnedo Valera, who specializes in International law and Human Rights shared his perspective in support of Duterte: Human Rights Watch and other groups seem to be suffering from legal myopia in engaging into a political definition of “crimes against humanity”. Unlike other international crimes such as genocide, crimes against humanity have not been codified in an international treaty. And thus their definition of crime vs humanity that they subscribe to reflects a weakness in customary international law and is problematic under international criminal law. The Duterte government is facing a drug war of two kinds. First the war between the government forces vs drug lords, drug cartels , police scalawags , corrupt politicians engage in the drug trade including Senator De Lima . These are legimate police operations and our police and military under the Philippine Constitution are duty bound
International Criminal Tribunal for Ruanda under Art 3, the Statute of Special Court for Sierra Leone Article 2, the Law on Establishment of the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia, Article 5. Why did they not use the crimes against humanity doctrine in drug related wars and killings in Mexico, Columbia ,Guatemala, Honduras etc. where the civilian populations are caught in the crossfire and those killed, including women and children, are in exponential geometric proportions? They should stop becoming part of the narrative of political destabilizers, and at the end weakening the base of a legitimate national drug war. It is a shame that they are allowing themselves as political pawns and are engaging in interference in the national criminal justice system of the Phil. and the democratic governance if our nation. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos
Is Duterte to be toppled by another banana republic?
An open letter to 45th US president, my Lolo Donald! “WHEN the Americans and Soviets stopped rattling nuclear Rhizomes sabers and stoking proxy wars, I don’t think love had much to do with it, or empathy either. And though I like to think I have as much empathy as the next person, I can’t say that it’s empathy Prosy AbArquezthat prevents me from taking DelAcruz, J.D. out contracts on my critics, getting into fistfights over parking spaces, threatening my wife when she points out I’ve done something silly, or lobbying for my country to go to war with China to prevent it from overtaking us in economic output. My mind doesn’t stop and ponder what it would be like to be victims of these kinds of violence and then recoil after feeling their pain. My mind never goes in these directions in the first place: they are absurd, ludicrous and unthinkable. Yet options like these were clearly not unthinkable to past generations. The decline of violence may owe something to an expansion of empathy, but it also owes much to harder-boiled facilities like The parts of the brain that restrain our darker impulses were also standard equipment in our ancestors who kept slaves, burned witches, and beat children, so they clearly don’t make people good by default. The exploration of our better angels must show not only how they steer us away from violence, but why they so often fail to do so: not just how they been increasingly engaged, but why history had to wait so long to engage them fully.” – Steven Pinker, “The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined,” 2011. I have been wanting to write this letter to you, Mr. President, as an imaginary Filipina-American granddaughter of yours. Allow me, Lolo Donald, as I see how much you love my mother, Ivanka and how you listen to her when she speaks. But, my classmates said that you are not a very good president. That makes me very very sad. Why are they saying that Lolo Donald? They said you are a bigot? Does that sound like
to enforce the law vs individuals and powerful groups who have created this drug menace that threatens the very existence of our nation and destroying the future of the next generation . The second one is the war between and among drug lords vs drug cartels , vigilantes , police scalawags, corrupt politicians, all non state actors trying to kill and outdo each other to protect their territory and multi billion drug trade all over the world, and the Philippines is part of this international drug hub. And these has caused a number of killings including innocent bystanders and even children caught in the crossfire. Hence if you attribute the 7,000 alleged killings ( using the abuse EJK term) to Pres. Duterte, the PNP and the military, then you destroy the valid notion of accountability of these non state actors and it will lead you to wrong conclusion. There are no state sponsored killings under the Duterte Administration. There are no crimes against humanity under the 1945 London Charter,the Rome Statute, Article 7(1), the Statute of International Criminal Tribunal for former Yugoslavia , the Statute of the
malikot (restless) or more like a spigot — you know the one you showed me in Air Force One that was like a faucet in the bathroom and water came out? My teacher said it is hating someone different from you. But that makes me so sad. Lolo Donald, in my school, when someone does not like me, it hurts me inside. I don’t want to eat. I can’t even sleep. Sometimes my tummy hurts. So my teacher said we must all like each other and we must all learn how to get along. The other day, someone wants the swing and I like to use it also, so we just played together. I pushed her and then, she pushed me in the swing. We played so much, we forgot recess was done and we had to go inside. But the teacher was nice, she just looked outside our classroom door and called us to come inside. Why are my classmates saying that you like only those who look like white bread and not those whose skin is like chocolate milk? Grandpa, did you not give me cookies the other day with chocolate milk? So why don’t you like those who look like chocolate milk? Are they not also God’s children, like I am? Did you not say in your speech that we are all made by the same God? Can you not make us all get along? Lolo, some of my classmates are very very sad. They saw on television a family who lost their father because he was arrested for not having his papers. What papers are those, Lolo? Like the papers where my teacher writes our homework? Why did the police just send them home to get their papers? Why did they separate the children from their dad? Remember how you were signing a lot of papers, why don’t you give that father some of the papers you signed so he can show the papers you signed to the police so he can go home? He is so
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IT would seem that if only for having been bequeathed the herOpinion itage of democracy by America, the Filipino people owe that nation a lot. From the establishment of the Philippine Commonwealth in 1935, election to public office all the way to the top executive post had been carried out through MAuro GiA sAMonte popular suffrage. So precious is that heritage that the late President Jose P. Laurel went on record as equating Filipinism to an “ennobling of the American tradition of constitutionalism and republicanism.” In the presidential elections of 1949, Dr. Laurel was the heavy favorite to win only the second presidential election in the history of independent Philippines. But at the turnout of the count of electoral results, then President Elpidio Quirino registered a winning margin of close to half a million votes. Dr. Laurel’s supporters could not take the beating and agitated for armed revolt, citing alleged massive cheating and violence by the Quirino camp. Though the Batangas Rebellion did take place as soon as the elections results were announced, Dr. Laurel would not consent to his people’s uprising, declaring, “I don’t want to go down in history as the President who turned the Philippines into a banana republic.” Come the next presidential election in 1953, deferring to the failing health of his wife, Dona Paciencia Hidalgo-Laurel, Dr. Laurel begged off from the contest, though he was perceived as the handsdown potential winner, and instead maneuvered to get the Liberal Party member, Defense Secretary Ramon Magsaysay bolting to the Nacionalista Party and being that party’s standard bearer. And, as goes the cliché, Magsaysay won, teeing off the historical pattern of defense secretaries getting elected President; Cory’s Defense Secretary Fidel V. Ramos would repeat the feat in 1992. And so it would strike serious students of the patterns in the installation of Philippine Presidents
that it was Dr. Laurel who first advocated keeping faith with democratic processes in deciding who should become Philippine President. With the election of Magsaysay, those processes would be institutionalized and appeared to be strengthened through all the succeeding presidencies, those of Carlos P. Garcia, Diosdado Macapagal and Ferdinand Edralin Marcos. Of the last-named presidency, Dr. Laurel was again an integral factor. It was Dr. Laurel who, penning the ponencia for the Supreme Court decision finding the young Marcos “not guilty” of the Nalundasan murder charge against him, actually cleared the path for the Great Surge of the Ilocano Boy to the pinnacle of Philippine political glory: a 20-yearrule as President – unmatched in the annals of Philippine history. Of course, that rule was not without its blemishes of so-called martial law atrocities: warrantless arrests, imprisonment and tortures, human rights violations, extrajudicial killings and disappearances. These are indictments by the mob and invite much looking into. One thing is sure though. Those blemishes of the Marcos rule had not been imprinted in people’s minds without extensive encouragement and actual propagation by Marcos archrival, Ninoy Aquino. Now who is Ninoy to begin with? Undeniably, the glib-tongued, prolific pen pusher got the biggest thrust into his brilliant political career through his assignment as a cub reporter of the Manila Times at the battle lines of the Korean War in 1950. How many of us know that Ninoy could not have gotten into that job at the war front had it not been for the sponsorship of some sort by, again, Dr. Laurel? Ninoy was only 17 years at the time, a year short of the legal age of employment, but he turned to Dr. Laurel and implored him to undertake to guarantee his safety in the performance of the job; Ninoy’s father, Benigno,
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OpiniOn & Features
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • MARCH 4-7, 2017
An open letter to 45th US president…
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sad and his daughter is also sad. I saw them cry on television. Lolo Donald, I would be so sad if my dad never came home. Don’t do that to them, Lolo Donald. You are their grandfather too, as you are now the 45th U.S. president — I learned that in school today, after Pres. Barack Obama, comes my grandfather, my Lolo Donald Trump. You know I get so sad when my dad gets busy in your house, Lolo. Let him come home, naman, but also, let that family’s father come home. It makes them very very sad when you separate their fathers from their daughters. Remember how you feel when my mom visits you, or when I sit in your lap, and you tell me stories of what to do when I grow up? Remember how happy we are? Lolo, can you make it better for these fathers and mothers who you said looked like chocolate milk? I like chocolate milk with my cookies. And my classmates with chocolate milk in their lunch box and who look like chocolate milk are always sharing their snacks with me. They are really nice and good people, Lolo Donald. Why are people marching in the streets with signs that say, “Dump Trump?” I don’t understand that sign. Do they want to dump you in the trash can? Do they want to dump all of us, including my mommy, Ivanka as she also has the name Trump but not my daddy? What did you do to make them that angry? Why do I keep seeing it in the newspapers, the television and my classmates talk about how dangerous America has been since you became the 45th president? But, don’t you love our country, America? I love my country so much, so much, like as wide as the ocean as I saw the other day, because America is great, right Lolo Donald? But, why are you not being the grandfather of all Americans? I learned that there over 320 million Americans in my class the other day. That is a lot of people to love, Lolo Trump. Can you not make us all get along? Why do my classmates say you are the meanest president
of America? Why are they saying you are tweeting angry words, what is a tweet? Don’t birds tweet? But you are not a bird, so why are they saying you are tweeting? The other night, my nanny let me watch television, and I saw mommy up high in the same big room as you were in, Lolo, but you were like President Barack Obama, reading a letter to the American people. But when Pres. Obama read, I did not see a lot of women dressed in white. When you did the letter reading, I saw many women wearing white. Did someone die? But, you are still alive, Lolo Donald, why did they wear white? Lolo, my teacher said that when you became the president, you became the leader of all of us, all 320 million Americans. Lolo, my teacher even said that the president also is not just the leader, but also shows us the best in us, Americans! Lolo, someone read this college book and talked about prudence, reason, fairness, self-control, norms and taboos, and conceptions of human rights. I do not understand these big words Lolo. Will you teach me how that makes Americans better angels? Footnote: “Suffragettes were members of women’s organizations in the late-19th and early-20th centuries which advocated the extension of the ‘franchise,’ or the right to vote in public elections, to women. It particularly refers to militants in the United Kingdom such as members of the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU). They wore white.”
*** 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.
Is Duterte to be toppled by another…
PAGE A8 t
Sr., was president of the Kapisanan sa Paglilingkod ng Bagong Pilipinas (KALIBAPI), the lone political party in Dr. Laurel’s wartime government. That stint in the Korean war projected Ninoy to national prominence, gaining for him afterward the post of presidential adviser to President Ramon Magsaysay on the Huk rebellion. When Ninoy won election as mayor of Concepcion, Tarlac, in 1955, at age 22, there was no more stopping his political upsurge. As Cory would put it much later, “Ninoy really wanted to be President. Everything was just set for 1973.” The dawning of the Age of Aquarius thus witnessed the intense contention for the presidency by two virtual protégées of Dr. Laurel: Marcos, the erstwhile murder convict whom he absolved at the Supreme Court; and Ninoy, whom he groomed for a successful journalistic career early on. Would this antagonism have come into play had not Dr. Laurel intervened actively in the development of either political career in the first place? But such is irony, the offspring of a development you would otherwise wish to produce just its opposite. When Ninoy went on his suicidal homecom-
ing in 1983 it was to ultimately set the stage for the snap presidential elections three years after. Marcos would win the count handily, but Cory would cry “cheat!” and use that cry to propel multitudes into what would go down in history as the EDSA People Power Revolt—in a strong sense, similar to the Batangas Rebellion in 1949 which Dr. Laurel vehemently objected to, not wishing to turn the Philippines into a “banana republic.” By bringing down a constitutionally constituted government, did not Cory in fact effect what Dr. Laurel feared? Isn’t it a travesty to hail Cory as an icon of democracy for trouncing the legitimate results of democratic elections? True enough, as Dr. Laurel feared in not consenting to the Batangueños’ resort to armed revolt to redress the wrongs of the 1949 elections, the Cory usurpation of the presidency in February 1986 spawned the seeds of “banana republicanism” in the Philippines. It set the precedent in the Philippine setting—what already had been a tradition in Latin America—for ousting governments through extra-constitutional means. And always, as in the South American arenas, the downfalls of
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A10 MARCH 4-7, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
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Dateline PhiliPPines
Airlines barred from charging tax on OFWs by William
B. Depasupil ManilaTimes.net
AIRLINES are no longer allowed to incorporate the cost of travel tax and terminal fees in tickets issued to departing overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello 3rd informed Director General Jim Sydiongco of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) of the order on Friday, March 3 in a letter. Bello pointed out that under the law, OFWs are exempted from paying travel tax and terminal fees, citing Presidential Decree 1183 and Republic Act (RA) 8042, or the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipino Act of 1995, as
amended by RA 100022. “It has come to my attention that the travel tax and terminal fees are being included in the cost of the airline tickets issued to our OFWs. While some OFWs were refunded of these fees at the airport prior to their departure, most of them, however, were not refunded because of lack of awareness about this privilege or lack of time to process their claim for refund,” said Bello in a cease-and-desist order. He also requested the CAAP to remit the travel tax and terminal fees that were not refunded to the OFWs to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), an attached agency
of the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE). “Considering that the inclusion of these travel tax and terminal fees in the cost of tickets has been a practice of airline companies for several years, we request that the travel tax and fees collected from our OFWs which were not refunded to them be remitted to the OWWA,” said Bello. The DoLE chief also instructed the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and OWWA to coordinate with CAAP and airport officials on the implementation of a mechanism for the automatic exemption of OFWs from travel tax and terminal fees. n
Robredo calls on dissent to be louder, braver by Dana
sioson AJPress
PHILIPPINE Vice President Leni Robredo encouraged the opposition to be braver and louder in expressing their sentiments over the policies of the Duterte administration. Describing the dissent as the “most important element of democracy,” Robredo said that she and the Liberal Party (LP) tried to cooperate with the present administration for the benefit of the country. She, however, took note that “expressing disagreement” to the “policies you think were wrong” is “part of cooperation.” Earlier this week, LP senators lost their committee chairmanships and were kicked out of the majority bloc during the Senate reorganization on Monday, February 27. LP Senator Franklin Drilon was removed from his post as Senate President Pro-Tempore, while Senators Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Benigno Paolo “Bam” Aquino, and Risa Hontiveros were stripped of agriculture, education, and health chairmanships respectively. Notably, the four senators earlier expressed their support for LP Senator Leila De Lima, a staunch critic of Duterte’s war on drugs and the alleged rise of extrajudicial killings in the country. De Lima was arrested last
Vice President Leni Robredo
week after a warrant of arrest was issued for the drug-related charges filed against her by the Department of Justice (DOJ). The LP senators also reportedly attended a rally on February 25 as part of commemorating the 31st People Power anniversary that ended the regime of late President Ferdinand Marcos as the country’s dictator. Robredo said that the reorganization in the Senate sends a “chilling effect” that there would be repercussions for those who
would go against the administration. “Lakasan pa rin natin ang ating loob na kung hindi kami sang-ayon sa polisiya ng gobyerno, lalakasan namin ang aming paghayag dahil sa tingin namin mahalaga ito (We need to be braver and louder in expressing our oppositions to policies that we think were wrong),” she remarked. Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo, however, earlier clarified that President Rodrigo Duterte did not play a hand in the recent reorganization of Senate leadership. Robredo also expressed her dismay following news that the Lower House approved the proposed Death Penalty Law in its second reading on Wednesday, March 1. She said that the passage seemed to be done in “haste,” pointing out that more congressmen “wanted to interpolate but were not given a chance.” Citing the Philippines’ “history of criminal justice system,” Robredo said that the then-active capital punishment did not show any positive effects to the crime incidence of the country. “So, yung tanong kung hindi siya source sa improvement sa crime statistics, bakit pa natin ibabalik (So the question is, if it’s not a source of improvement to crime statistics, why bring it back)?” she then asked. n
SUPPORTERS RALLY BEHIND GINA. Environment Secretary Regina Paz ‘Gina’ Lopez calls supporters to rally against destructive mining on Wednesday, March 1. Environmentalists and residents of mining communities joined a protest caravan and appealed to lawmakers to confirm Lopez as Environment Secretary. ManilaTimes.net photo
President beams at grandson ‘Stonefish’ by Catherine
s. Valente ManilaTimes.net
PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte took time off leading the nation and switched to a grandfatherly role Thursday night, March 3, visiting his newborn grandson nicknamed “Stonefish” at a Davao City hospital. Duterte donned a laboratory gown and cap at the newborn unit of Davao Doctors’ Hospital, with special assistant Christopher “Bong” Go taking pictures. Hospital staff were photographed snapping “selfies” with the President. Speaking to reporters earlier in Cebu, Duterte said he wanted to go home right away to see his newborn grandson Marko Digong or “Stonefish,” the third child of his daughter Sara and son-in-law Manases Carpio. Sara, who replaced her father as Davao City mayor, gave birth at 12:56 p.m. on Thursday. “I’m exceedingly excited. I want to go home now, galing dito uwi na ako [from here, I will go home],” Duterte said. Asked why his new grandson was named after a poisonous
PROUD GRANDPA. President Rodrigo Duterte is photographed with his new grandson Marko Digong, nicknamed ‘Stonefish,’ at the Davao Doctors’ Hospital Thursday night. Stonefish is the third child of Duterte’s daughter Sara Duterte-Carpio, the mayor of Davao City. Malacañang photo
fish, Duterte said: “Ewan ko bakit ‘yan si Inday ang ano (I don’t know why Inday is like that).” The President said he should have been given the chance to name the baby boy, but Sara had other plans. “She was going to let me bid for it. That’s a practice,” Duterte said. “It’s competing with your in-laws. That’s why if they were
able to buy the rights, through bidding, they can pick a name from their ancestors. If I win, I can pick from the names of my ancestors,” he added. President Duterte’s daughter was pregnant with triplets but lost two to miscarriage. Sara’s other children are named Mikhail Maria or “Sharky,” 8, and Mateo Lucas or “Stingray,” 4. n
Pres. comms office reorganization: Abella is sole spokesperson for Duterte by aJpress
FOLLOWING an internal reorganization at the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), Philippine Communications Secretary Martin Andanar confirmed on Thursday, March 2 that he will no longer speak for Malacañang regularly. All official Malacañang statements will now only be issued by Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella, according to Andanar. Abella also confirmed both the reorganization and the new policy. Andanar said that he would instead concentrate on running the “PCOO Proper and its attached agencies,” referring to the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Philippines News Agency (PNA), People’s Television Network (PTV4), and Radyo ng Bayan, among others. Abella, meanwhile, will be in
Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella
charge of the “entire PCOO Proper ‘Content Group.’” In the absence of Abella, however, Andanar said he can speak on behalf of President Rodrigo Duterte. Andanar also denied the rumors that the PCOO reorganization is caused by his recent runins with the media. Recent reports claim that the Senate media gave Andanar the cold shoulder during a press dinner with Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III on Wednesday, March 2.
According to a Rappler report, Andanar was “practically ignored by most members of the media” and “only a few tried to be cordial and civil to him” during the dinner. Andanar earlier accused the Senate media of being offered $1,000 to cover a press conference set by Senator Antonio Trillanes IV on February 20, where former cop and supposed leader of the so-called “Davao Death Squad” Arthur Lascañas confessed that Duterte allegedly ordered killings when he was a mayor. In response, the Senate media criticized Andanar for his “unsubstantiated” and “irresponsible” claims, demanding the communications secretary to either prove his accusations or issue a public apology. Andanar, who is also a former news reader, refused to apologize and insisted that his information was based on an intelligence report. n
Is Duterte to be toppled by another… PAGE A9 t
Philippine Presidents were brought about on the one single criterion of them not being submissive to American whims. On this one single yardstick, next to fall after Marcos was President Joseph Ejercito Estrada, who in 2001 was deposed for defying the US admonition for him not to attack the MILF Camp Abubakar. Erap crushed the mother MILF stronghold, and two months after, he was ousted from the presidency. What seems significant in Erap’s case was that, unlike in that of Marcos, his removal from office was not accomplished through an overt military coup attended by complete disregard of democratic processes. The impeachment proceedings he was first subjected to all appeared regular and within constitutional constrictions. But it was to that perfectly legal appearance that irregularities in the proceedings were subsumed, concealing their utter unconstitutionality. Consider the railroading of the approval of the articles of impeachment against Estrada—through the plenary outright instead of going through the rigmarole of committee hearings. Then into the actual impeachment trial, it was that same appearance of constitutionality that justified in the eyes of a gullible public the walkout of opposition senators when it became evident that those proceedings would not succeed in getting the controversial second envelope opened and thus secure conviction of Erap. As Senator Presiding Judge Aquilino Pimentel pronounced in theatrical histrionics of quivering voice and tearing eyes the result of the Senate trial court voting on whether or not to open the second envelope, “The nays have it,” that signaled the opposition walkout – transforming the constitutional impeachment proceedings into the extra-constitutional rule of the mob. All that was needed to be done after a two-day interlude of EDSA II at the Edsa Shrine, was for
Chief Justice Hilario Davide to administer the presidential oath of office to Vice President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who was succeeding to the presidency declared vacant by the Supreme Court. As it was to a lady that the first Philippine Banana Republic was bequeathed by the American policymakers, so it was to another lady that the same policymakers passed the Second Philippine Banana Republic. This flashback should be troubling enough to President Rodrigo Duterte. The lawyer that he is, he should realize that the same pitfalls endemic in the Philippine Constitution that had wreaked havoc on the presidency of Erap could do the same trick on him. The significant players in a regime change could now be on standby. The Chief Justice, who is a PNoy appointee, could be at the latter’s beck and call to do a Davide. And another lady is certainly eagerly waiting to do a walk in the park on EDSA to the Third Philippine Banana Republic. President Duterte didn’t do that show of force at the Luneta on February 25 for nothing. The great showman that he is, the Digong was definitely delivering to the yellows the message, “Just you try it.” That ultimately would be Duterte’s terrible mistake. What ousted Marcos, or Erap for that matter, were not the EDSA throngs. In Marcos’ case, it was the US-backed military breakaway by the Enrile-Ramos tandem; in Erap’s, the similar military breakaway led by Erap’s very own kumpadre, Armed Forces Chief of Staff Angelo Reyes, who was teary-eyed as he led Erap out of Malacañang. What could be of comfort for President Duterte at the moment is that he’s apparently got the support of both houses of Congress. No impeachment proceedings appear imminent on account of this. His opponents are thus denied that element which in the case of Erap effectively served to ignite EDSA II that led to regime change. But then we are here ultimately concerned with CIA capabilities. Its bag of tricks is bottomless. (ManilaTimes.net)
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Dateline PHiliPPineS
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • MARCH 4-7, 2017
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Duterte to visit Russia in May PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte announced on Thursday, March 2, that he will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on May 25. During his speech before the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. in Lapu-Lapu City, Duterte also disclosed that Armed Forces of the Philippines (AF) Central Command chief Army Major General Oscar Lactao will be joining him on his flight to Russia. “Sabi man ng Russia (Russia said), ‘We have everything you need. Just come here.’ So I’m going there... May 25,” Duterte said. In jest, Duterte added: “Maganda iyong mga Russians. Iyon lang naman ang puntahan mo (The Russians are also beautiful. That’s what you go there for).” Duterte first met Putin on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Eco-
nomic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Lima, Peru in November of last year. During that time, Putin extended Duterte an invitation to visit Russia and strengthen the two countries’ bilateral relationship. The Philippine president previously described his Russian counterpart as his “idol” and “hero.” As part of the Philippines’ new independent policy, Manila, under the leadership of Duterte, has been seeking warmer ties with Russia. Earlier in January, Russian Ambassador to the Philippines Igor Khovaev told CNN Philippines that Moscow is “ready to cooperate in industries of transport, energy… including the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, telecommunications, agriculture, and many other fields.” Khovaev also described
Duterte’s visit Russia as a “milestone” in the relationship between the two countries. “Both the Russian and Philippine side, we need to prepare substantial and solid package of bilateral agreements on cooperation in different fields, and we are now taking necessary efforts,” Khovaev said. Philippine Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella previously assured the public that Philippines’ alliances with other nations will not be excluded despite Manila’s efforts to forge warmer ties with Moscow. “The president’s decision to pivot with Russia forms part of his independent foreign policy. We seek new or enhanced partnerships based on equality. This new alliance will not exclude other relationships. The United States will remain an ally,” Abella said in a statement in February. (AJPress)
Record high female grads at PMA
GORDON MEETS SAF44 FAMILIES. Senator Richard Gordon,chair of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, on Tuesday, February 28, 2017 meets with the families of the “SAF44,” or the 44 Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP SAF) troopers killed during the January 25, 2015 Mamasapano incident. The families went to the Senate to seek assistance in reopening the official investigation of the incident, considered to be the largest loss of lives involving local security forces in recent history. Senate photo by Cesar Tomambo
Robredo declares war on online trolls
Philstar.com
by DJ Yap anD Izobelle T. pulgo Inquirer.net
BAGUIO CITY , Philippines – The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) will send off a record high number of women to the Armed Forces on March 12. PMA public affairs officer Lt. Col. Reynaldo Balido said 63 of the 167 members of the graduating class are women, the highest number since the PMA began accepting females in 1993. The women have also shown impressive performance while in the country’s premier military officer training institution, with several among the top 10 in their classes. In 1999, Arlene de la Cruz, a former Mathematics major at the University of the Philippines in Baguio, emerged number one, the first-ever female cadet topnotcher. She died in a mysterious car accident in 2008 in Bataan. Last year, female cadet Christine Mae Naungayan Calima from Bolinao, Pangasinan graduated salutatorian. Seven other female cadets graduated with Naungayan while 14 of their female “mistahs” or batchmates would graduate on March 12. In 2015, Caroline Jhoy Ramirez Nacional , 22, from Maitum, Sarangani placed fifth in the graduating class. Also in the top 10 of the 2014
IN an online world populated by social media trolls peddling fake news, Vice President Leni Robredo wants to fight back by mobilizing an “army of truth seekers.” “This is the perfect time to start a campaign against lies and alternative facts,” she told a forum on social media organized by the Coalition for Better Education at the Cebu Eastern College. “Let’s gather together an army of truth seekers, because though there are many trolls, I think there are more people who want the truth,” Robredo said in a mix of English and Filipino. In her speech, a transcript of which was sent to Manila reporters, the former Camarines Sur representative lamented the proliferation of people spreading lies and misinformation on Facebook, Twitter and alternative news blogs. She cited her own experiences battling hoaxes and unfounded rumors. Some of these have included speculations of a romantic liaison with a congressman or her being pregnant, as well as her alleged links to groups plotting President Duterte’s downfall, all of which her office has sought to debunk. “At first, we tried to take the high road. We said that ‘since it’s
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graduating class was Liza Jumawid Dango from Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City. Again in 2013, an Igorot (Kankanaey) lass from Beckel, La Trinidad, Benguet – Maryam Dinamling Balais – was salutatorian. She was quoted as saying then that “the PMA is no longer a man’s world.” “PMA training is never difficult for women,” she enthused while encouraging more Filipino young women to join the academy. Four of the 19 graduating females in 2013 were in the top 10, including Joselyn Dimapilis Advincula from Tagaytay City (No. 5), Vanessa Pascual Factor from Antipolo City (No. 8), and Marila Agrabio Maniscan from South Cotabato (No. 10). The 2013 PMA class “Pudang Kalis” had the largest number of females in the top 10 since the PMA opened enrollment to
women. In 2012, in fourth place of the graduating class was Angeline Osorio Esmeria from Taguig City. In 2011, Baguio lass Janice Matbagan landed sixth in the graduating class. Karen Padayao from Ormoc City, Leyte, placed ninth in the 2010 graduating class. Again in 2009, 22-year-old Cynthia Forteza from Urbiztondo, Pangasinan landed in ninth place. In 2008, Me-ann Singson of Ligao City in Albay landed third in the graduating class. For this year, PMA will announce the top ten graduating cadets on Monday. President Duterte is expected to formally welcome the PMA “Sanggalang ay Lakas at Buhay Para sa Kalayaan ng Inang Bayan (‘Salaknib’ or Iluko of defense)” class to the military fold. n
not true, no one will pay attention to it.’ So we tried to ignore the lies going around about myself or my office,” Robredo said. “But in the six months since then, while we were taking the high road, while we were not responding to the lies, it began to seem like the lies were becoming truth. Because people were only reading the lies and couldn’t see the truth,” she said. “So we realized that every time lies, fake news, or alternative facts are shared, they assume the appearance of truth,” she said. “Shall we accept this world? That is what we must answer today… Shall we surrender the truth to those who want to corrupt it? Of course, my answer is we must not,” she said. “The success of our democracy—and the state of our rights and freedoms—will depend on how we protect the truth,” Robredo said. She said the people might feel powerless in the face of an onslaught of falsities and lies on social media. “But we must challenge ourselves to uphold the truth and its essential place in public discourse. We must be unafraid to debunk falsehoods, to counter fallacies, and to expose frauds who deceive our people so brazenly,” she said. She told reporters on Friday she would continue to voice out her stand on issues even if these ran counter to the Duterte ad-
ministration. Robredo said she believed that the “Naga Leaks” that are supposed to be an explosive expose against her by the website called “We are Collective” was only meant to silence her. “On our part, we are ready. We have nothing to hide. We have not sinned against the country. We will continue to express our beliefs, with all our hearts and with courage no matter what they will do to stop us,” she said in Filipino. On Saturday, Robredo is scheduled to hold a dialogue with fisherfolk in San Remegio town, Cebu, and grace the relaunching of her late husband’s book, “Jesse Robredo: The Quest for Good Governance,” at Ayala Center Cebu. Robredo said her hopes are high that the death penalty bill would still be overturned by the Senate. She said the reimposition of the death penalty is not an assurance that crime incidence would go down as there is no emperical data that it is a deterrence to crime. Robredo also pointed out that the country had an “imperfect” criminal justice system which raises the possibility that the innocent may be wrongly judged as guilty. It is also antipoor because those on death row are indigents who could not afford a good lawyer, she said. n
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SHOWBIZ&STYLE
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Journal Binibining Pilipinas repeaters follow Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach’s advice by Ricky Lo Philstar.covm
If at first you don’t succeed, try and try again. “No harm in trying again,� so said 2015 Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach after winning Bb. PilipinasUniverse on her third try (first as first runner-up and then as one of the semi-finalists). Indeed, if there’s a will, there’s a way. Aim for the star and don’t blink. They also serve who only stand and wait. (A winner never quits, a quitter never wins. — Sweepstakes winning agent Manuel Uy.) Heeding Pia’s advice, several repeaters are among the 40 official candidates in the 2017 Bb. Pilipinas search for six winners who will represent the country in the following pageants: Universe, International, Intercontinental, Supranational, Grand International
Jehza Mae Huelar, Sirene Sutton, Maria Angelica de Leon, Rachel Louise Peters, Arienne Louise Calingo
• Vanessa Saliba (2014 candidate); • Angelique Celine de Leon (2014/2016 candidate); • Elizabeth Clenci (2011 canDindi Joy Pajares, Charmaine Elima, Sammie Anne Legaspi didate) • Jennyline Carla Malpaya (2016 and Globe. Thus, the repeaters and ond runner-up); • Arienne Louise Calingo (2013 candidate/Top Six Best National other aspirants have more chances Bb. Pilipinas-USA first runner- Costume and 2013 Miss World of bagging a title. Among the “comebackingâ€? up/2014 Miss Asian Global/2014 Miss Asian California/2016 Miss binibini candidates: • Maria Angelica de Leon (2013 World Philippines first Princess); • Dindi Joy Pajares (2016 Top 15 Top 15 semi-finalist), daughter of actors Christopher de Leon and semi-finalist); • Charmaine Elima (2013 Top Sandy Andolong; • Jehza Mae Hueler (2016 sec- 15 semi-finalist);
• Sarah Jireh Asido (2014 candidate/2013 Miss Philippines Earth candidate). Many of the candidates have competed in other beauty contests, namely: • Dane felisse Marasigan (2012 Miss Philippines Earth candidate); PAGE B2
/64, 36(5
What makes Liza Soberano insecure by Deni
Philippines candidate); • Mae Liezel Ramos (2014 Top 15 semi-finalist/2008 Miss Bicolandia second runner-up/2009 Mutya ng Ibalong first runner-up/2010 Miss Kaogma festival/2011 Miss World Philippines candidate/2013 Mutya ng Magayon first runnerup); and
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Rose M. AfiniDAD-BeRnARDo Philstar.com
AS an endorser of a global beauty brand, Liza Soberano feels the weight of the word “beautyâ€? in her shoulders. “Yes, it is (a pressure to look beautiful) because I’m seen on TV and people look up to me. People also kind of draw confidence from me because for example, I’m a brand endorser, so I’m supposed to empower women to feel confident and beautiful about themselves. But sometimes, when you don’t feel beautiful, how are you able to do that, ‘di ba?â€? she pointed out in a recent conference. “There are times when you just don’t feel like you look your best. You look in the mirror and see imperfections. I’m pretty sure everybody can relate to that, especially us, women, we’re full of insecurities all the time‌ I do feel when I go out, I ought to look my best. But sometimes, you just can’t pull it off because it depends on what you’re feeling.â€? What makes her feel insecure? “A lot of things. My weight sometimes. It’s true! Seriously! Because the camera tends to make you look bigger, so sometimes, I look bigger than other girls on TV. When I have my period, especially, when I see girls who are so pretty, I feel like I’m not as pretty as them. Other international artists, they look so beautiful and perfect. Then it makes
7YVNYHT Z\IQLJ[ [V JOHUNL ^P[OV\[ WYPVY UV[PJL Only human: Actress, model, and beauty brand ambassador Liza Soberano also struggles with self-esteem issues.
me feel like, ‘Why am I not like them?’� She confided to Philstar.com that she sees a lot of imperfections in her face and body. “I find my eyes imperfect. Lahat naman tayo hindi symmetrical. There are times na hindi pantay ‘yung talukap ko. Sometimes, when I gain weight, nag-bloPAGE B2
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B march 4-7, 2017 • La WEEKEND aSIaN JOUrNaL
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The making of a president Moonlighting by Mylah de
leon
THe president wears a prestigious crown. The protocol, the linguistics, circumlocution are intimidating at first, but then becomes a second language. There is something about the aura of president that makes everyone behave in a reverential manner. everyone, including his innermost circle, which consists of lifetime friends ceases to perceive him in high respect. This man, among men talks to you with his mental fly unbuttoned. He has sedulously cultivated the “astig-tigasin” style, but one suspects the bristles on the surface do not go all the way down. He comes from a good family and went to the right schools. This character sometimes talks like a stevedore when unnecessarily provoked. From his early political campaigns, he was already startling the nation with his high leaps and fast pace, with his general air of roughness, toughness, vitality. He seemed to be a new kind of politician — far from the gentility of the old school, elegantly eloquent and impervious, rather than a jaded man of the new world. His strenuous style to this day is more affectionate than accurate. He seemed to be the new
kind of politician, a brute hurtling through a wasteland of old world elegance of suave, and grand manners that no longer awed the community. What used to be the valued gentility of the old school political aristocrats, courtly and polished were rudely rapped by the rowdy new age of Rodrigo Duterte as legends sprang up about his virility; his physical courage has been equally blazoned. He has displayed the common touch which is so endearing to the masses. Not famous for humility, what he said was not exactly what he meant. He merely considers himself as better than any other presidential candidate, he know that his name had a potent appeal throughout the archipelago, found out that it’s not the political parties that matter, but family factions. He even noted that in some places, during the presidential campaign, both the rival faction wanted him. In Davao, we’re told as the mayor, he held meetings in a cockpit. If there were no microphones he would tell the crowd, “To hell with speeches, let’s just get some tuba and let us just drink instead.” So they sat down and got drunk, and all his meetings were successful. In cities, old folks who could no longer walk carried themselves from far away barrios, because they wanted to see him before they died. There so many touching incidents when he was mayor that proved him right in deciding to run for president. Undoubtedly, he was a crowd drawer. He held an impressive
record as the mayor of Davao City, as the city accumulated a public indebtedness that ran into millions. Within three years, he had paid of more than half of its debts, and left the city, completely liquidated. He is said to be the first mayor to buy some order into the monuments of the city’s inhabitants. He has succeeded in making them cross streets only at proper points and has forced them to behave more decorously in public, belying the fact those who think of him as just another rabble douser. What comes to mind now among his constituents is that he has been fearlessly fighting the high and the mighty, and he has no less incurred the wrath of squatter, drivers and pedestrian. Only history can say how his administration, through able and efficient, have been imaginative enough…and that he was by far, a great executive, now as the president, the man’s character exudes the same traits governing. Not the president one had hoped for, but a president the country needs. A man of action, rather than vision and President Duterte seems to have the advantage over the other presidents, of being able to display some fruits of his ability as an executive. He is known, he is familiar, people still think of him as young and his actuations are vigorous with youth. Age has not withered nor stalled his infinite profanity, and even his admirers will argue that his face looks far from new. It is, on the other hand, a face that’s news!
What makes Liza Soberano... PAGE B1 bloat ‘yung face ko. It’s so hard to cover that up, especially when you’re taping or shooting a movie, ‘yun agad ‘yung nakikita. I have really small eyes and also my arms problem ko rin.” She thinks that her line in her latest movie, “My ex and Whys,” which asks if she is ugly, has contributed to the movie’s success. “Maybe that’s why they watched the movie but also because the fact that it’s a Cathy Molina film, I think that’s a reason for people to watch the film. And of course, there are a lot of LizQuen supporters that’s why we earned that much on the first day,” she explained. When she is down, what does
she do? “I always keep in mind why I started out in the first place. I have my best friends, my father, my brother…Good thing, I have a good set of people to make me feel happy. Of course, your energy level also shows and registers in your face. With the help of makeup, as well, some powder, some cheek tint,” the Maybelline New York endorser elaborated on how she makes herself feel and look beautiful. “I try to work out regularly, at least three times a week. I have a trainer that supervises my work out. But most of the time, I do yoga just to burn some calories. I don’t like dieting like I’m starving myself to
lose weight. I still eat. I try to choose healthy food, but sometimes, I do like to indulge, because I don’t want to deprive myself from things that make me happy!” She also takes cue from the characters she has been portraying. Her advice for those also having self-esteem issues? “Just be who you are all throughout. Just because society and everybody else ask you to, don’t let anybody dictate who you should be and don’t let anything stop you. Just believe in yourself, have the confidence to make it happen. Just because it is your dream, that’s enough reason for you to keep pushing yourself to strive to achieve those goals.”
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Broken-hearted four (from left): Robi Domingo, Daniel Matsunaga, Gab Valenciano, and Arci Muñoz together in one show.
Camp Sawi: Robi, Daniel, Gab, Arci on mending broken hearts by deni
Rose M. afinidad-BeRnaRdo Philstar.com
WHeRe do broken hearts go? After coming from Splitsville, TV host Robi Domingo, actors Daniel Matsunaga and Arci Muñoz, and performer Gab Valenciano only have one destination and it is not “Camp Sawi,” the title of a recent Filipino movie referring to an imaginary place where the broken hearted head to vent out their pain. All four of them try to heal themselves by getting busy with their new reality TV show, “I Can Do That!” Robi Domingo on his split with host Gretchen Ho “I’m hurting, but I have to,” he said when asked if in moving on, he could also exclaim, “I Can Do That!” “With all the things that happened, kailangan talaga mag-move forward eh, kasi there’s no room for sadness. There’s no time to be sad. I have a fair share of my sadness. Na-hurt ako, sobra. Kahit now, I’m hurting. Pero kailangan ko mag-focus kasi I’ve got lots on my plate at nandito na ‘yung opportunity. Tagal kong hinintay ‘yung pagkakataon na ‘to (hosting “I Can Do That!”).” “With all the things that happened, I can do that because I have to!” early this week, Robi and Gretchen released a joint statement on social media that they are ending their relationship to focus on their careers. “There is no third party” involved, the two stressed. They said, however, that they are still open for each other in the future. In a recorded interview of ABSCBN, Robi refused to disclose the
date of their breakup but said that it was a mutual decision. He reiterated that the reason for their split was already stated on their mutual statement. Robi said that they just talked about the break up and there was no one who initiated their separation. “What happened to us [was in] the statement that we released last night,” he said, adding that their relationship has no time to grow. Asked if they lacked time for each other, Robi nodded. Robi also cleared rumors that he is currently dating Korean actress, model and singer, Sandara Park. He said they are just friends and sought respect for her. Meanwhile, Robi said what is good about their breakup is their doors remain open for each other. He however, admitted that he is still hurting from the split. “’Di kami bitter sa isa’t isa,” Robi said. “On my end, I’m still hurting. I’m still sad because of what happened but sana maayos kasi she’s (Gretchen) really a great person,” he added. For Robi, the three-month rule doesn’t apply to him. The celebrity couple’s breakup rumors sparked after Gretchen posted a photo of her with a shorter hair during the New Year. Gretchen last week told her fans to stop believing everything they read or hear and promised to clarify it soon enough. Daniel Matsunaga on ex-girlfriend Erich Gonzales “Syempre po mahirap lahat ng pinagdadaanan ko. Syempre, I love the person,” Daniel said of his fel-
low actor and former lover. “It’s just sad that so many people were affected. even families were affected. Mahirap din mag-show (ng happiness) at this time, pero siguro at this time, siguro mag-fofocus muna ako dito sa trabaho ko na and sa career ko muna and family.” After the “I Can Do That!” press conference, he evaded personal interviews and exited as fast as he could. Besides his heart, his forehead was also scarred as it was hit by the props he was required to use for an act in “I Can Do That!” Gab Valenciano on TV personality Tricia Centenera According to Gary Valenciano’s son, he and estranged wife, Tricia, already came up with an agreement and the legalities of their separation will probably be finalized next month. It can be recalled that the two separated due to Gab’s alleged infidelity. “No, she doesn’t need to make paalam to me. If Tricia starts seeing someone and she sees him as a lifetime partner, ako ‘yung pinaka-unang mag-cocongratulate sa kanya,” Gab assured. What can he say to those also facing challenges like a broken marriage? “My advice will be two things lang – to surround yourself with family, your closest friends, and number two is to pray. That’s the only thing that got me through it. And of course, you just be quiet. Kasi talking about it will not get you anywhere. Kung baga, you’ll just dwell on it eh. Just surround yourself with positive people, don’t be alone, and always try to make yourself busy. ‘Yung ang ginawa PAGE B3
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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • mARch 4-7, 2017
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The horrors of geopathic stress By Sean
Shono
Geopathic stress (GS) was a phenomenon found in a small town in Germany which showed an extraordinary big cancer ratio in 1929. Groundwater and mineral veining radiate irregular electricity. By staying for a long time on those spots, the human body’s bioenergy is drained and may cause various troubles, such as continuous dullness, irritation, sleeplessness, depression, cancer, pet illness, tendency of catching cold, back pain, water leaking and frequent machine trouble. it is said that: • 90 percent of cancer patients have GS under their beds. • Some divorce cases are caused by GS • GS are often found under
An actual case of GS the second husband of Mrs. a died from liver and kidney cancers. the dowser found strong GS under his bed. her first husband had died 10 years prior from intestine cancer and by using the same bed. an australian desk of problem children either in school or at home • traffic accident-prone areas are often found with GS the effect of GS may be lessened if detected. GS can reach up to 10-story high buildings. Dragon God offers checking of GS (with an onsite Feng Shui check) for $380. $190 for those
student with a brain tumor, which was unretrievable, had a problem of sleeplessness and mental disease. 2 GS zones were found crossing under his bed. three months after moving the bed, his tumor shrank and he was able to sleep well. (Peter Carlton) that have already had an onsite Feng Shui check. *** 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.
Camp Sawi: Robi, Daniel, Gab, Arci... PAGE B2 ko. So, ‘yung mga kaibigan ko natutulog sa bahay ko, ako natutulog sa bahay ng mga kaibigan ko, even if i have work the next day. So it helped me with the process of healing.” But he is not in pain only because of his marital crisis. he also has a difficulty gripping things due to a very arduous preparation for the second episode of “i can Do that!” he admitted that he thought he was prepared enough to face any challenge as he grew up in a performing family and his daddy is a perfectionist, but the challenges in “i can Do that!” are nothing that he has ever tried before. Arci Muñoz on her non-showbiz ex-boyfriend “camp Sawi kami dito, lahat kami single halos!” arci declared, referring to her “i can Do that!” co-stars who have also recently called it quits with their loved
Not having time for each other was really the culprit of their breakup, she said. “Lagi naming tina-try (ayusin), pero hirap talaga ipilit kung ‘di na nagwo-work e… Siguro sobrang tagal na lang talaga,” she said of their four-year romance. She said she has suitors, but she is not entertaining them. She is not ready to love again because as she admitted, “’Di pa ko nakakapagmove on.” “i’m just keeping myself busy, but i’m still hurting,” she noted. although her last relationship did not work, she has no regrets. “Wala naman talagang regrets kasi right now, i’m just really setting up my priorities. ito siguro muna ang gusto ni God, na mag-focus muna ako sa work.” Nonetheless, she still hopes for a second chance. “Kasi mahal mo pa rin naman talaga ‘yung tao kahit ‘di na kayo magkasama…Kasi kaya naman po talaga pagsabayin, madami lang talagang naging fac-
tor, ‘di lang time.” But arci’s heart is not the only one injured. She now finds it hard to walk as she got sprained while doing a water sport. “our training in the show is really hard. ‘Di po ako athletic. Lampa po ako at sobrang accident-prone, but i try to be careful,” arci said. Love doctors pokwang, cristine Reyes, and alex Gonzaga, who have blossoming romances, are ready to give a hug for their physically and romantically hurting co-stars. pokwang and cristine have also cried a lot, but this time, not because of love life, but due to the physically demanding tasks they have to finish for the show. “ang gusto ko talaga, habang dumadagdag ang edad mo, pabata nang pabata ang ginagawa mo. Kung baga kung kaya nila, kaya ko rin ‘yan!” said pokwang, who, despite of being the oldest in the batch and being discouraged by
• Sirene Sutton (2014 Miss Global philippines first runnerup); R.p.-Luzon); • Leitz camyll ang (2015 Miss • Ma. Bejieleen Nama (2011 World philippines candidate); Miss casino Filipino candidate/2011 • Larah Grace Lacap (2012 Miss Yacht Model international Mutya ng pilipinas second runnercandidate/2013 Bb. Unibersidad up/2012 Miss World philippines and 2014 Miss World University candidate); candidate); • Nelda ibe (2014 Miss World • Kimberly pajares (2012 Miss philippines second princess); casino Filipino second runner• Rachel Louise peters (2014 up/2014 Miss World philippines Miss World philippines fourth top 13 semi-finalist); princess);
• Karla May Manongsong (2016 Miss Bulacan candidate); • Katarina Sonja Rodriguez (2014 Season 2 asia’s Next top Model second runner-up); • thoreen halvosen (2012 Miss philippines earth-Fire); • Mae Lanie chan (2009 Mutya ng pilipinas top 12 semi-finalist); • Kristel Guelos (2013 Miss philippines earth candidate); and the grand coronation night will be held on april 30 at the Smart araneta coliseum.
ones. arci starred in the movie “camp Sawi” together with Yassi pressman, Bela padilla, andi eigenmann and Kim Molina. Since arci’s soap opera with Jericho Rosales ended last January, she has not taken a break in show business because work, she said, makes her forget her failed relationship with the son of Brunei’s princeJefri Bolkiah, local rock artist Badi del Rosario. “ayaw ko lang talaga mabakante,” said the rocker-actress, who will be doing her second movie with Gerald anderson. She denied that her ex-beau was jealous of Gerald. there was no third party involved and her ex-boyfriend was very understanding, she reiterated. though her ex has “friendzoned” her, they continue to speak to each other. their relationship, however, was not like it was before. as she confided: “iba na rin talaga, ‘di na tulad nung dati.”
Bb. repeaters follow...
PAGE B1 • Maria Gail Devora tobes (2012 Miss Northern Samar/2015 Miss National State colleges & Universities athletic association [ScUaa]/2016 Miss Best Model asia pacific philippines candidate); • Joselle Mariano (2013 Mutya ng pilipinas top 10 semi-finalist/2014 Miss philippines earth/2015 Miss
WILL PRESIDENT TRUMP’S “ENFORCEMENT PRIORITIES” AFFECT YOU, ON A BRAND NEW EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY!” After President Trump signed the Executive Order on “Enhancing Public Safety in the Interior of the U.S.” on January 25, 2017, (listing those who are “enforcement priorities,”) the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, John Kelly, issued two memos to DHS agencies on how to carry out the President’s executive orders. Leading U.S. immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel explains the Homeland security memos and enforcement priorities and how they could affect you, on a brand new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – this Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC.
her american boyfriend from joining the show, still went for it. She added: “habang walang dugo, i can do that! ‘pag may dugo, i can’t promise!” eight Kapamilya idols will show their grit and prove they can do anything to entertain viewers in the newest talent-reality show “i can Do that,” which premieres on March 11 on aBS-cBN. the show will test the will and imagination of “i caNdidates,” including actress and jiu jitsu enthusiast cristine Reyes; actress
and in-demand cover girl arci Muñoz; singer-actress Sue Ramirez; and host-comedienne pokwang, as they perform unique talents that could be hilarious, nerve-wracking, or simply extraordinary. also not backing down from any challenge are theater actor and tV heartthrob Jc Santos; dancer-performer Gab Valenciano; comedian Wacky Kiray; and model-actor and footballer Daniel Matsunaga. the philippine version of “i can Do that” will be hosted by Robi Domingo and alex Gonzaga.
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B march 4-7, 2017 • La WEEKEND aSIaN JOUrNaL
5 lucky shoppers win tickets to the Philippines from Island Pacific Supermarket CALIFORNIA - With the culmination of Island Pacific’s Shop and Fly promo last January 2017, five lucky winners each have been awarded with a roundtrip ticket to the Philippines via the Philippine Airlines. The winners have all been randomly selected using an electronic raffle through Island Pacific Seafood Market’s Bonus Rewards program. The winners include Ms. Karina Soriano of West Covina, Mr. Gerald Mendoza of Panorama City, Mr. Yami Dy of Santa
Clarita, Ms. Victoria Hodson of Long Beach and Ms. Catherine Morales of Oxnard, CA. Island Pacific Seafood Market, in cooperation with Philippine Airlines, congratulates all the winners and are excited for them to enjoy their vacations in the Philippines. I s l a n d Pa c i f i c re m a i n s proud to its Filipino roots and believes in promoting the beautiful destinations of our homeland. Through the Shop and Fly Promo, the company not only gives its shoppers
an incentive for their support, but it also gives them a chance to enjoy the Philippines. For this promo, the company has focused its attention to the city of Cebu. Thus, all winners have been given a roundtrip ticket to Cebu via Philippine Airlines. Island Pacific’s Bonus Rewards program is offered to all shoppers for free. Sign up today to earn points and save more on your store purchases!
(Advertising Supplement
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Meet the outstanding couple for The Beautiful Life Celebration 2017: Mr. and Mrs. Reynaldo & Nora Diego By Monet
Lu
AS the saying goes, “time flies when you’re having fun.” In that case, Rey and Nora Diego’s marriage of 51 years flew by like a blur. They both still yearn for each other’s company, treat each other as best friends, and both are grateful that they’ve spent almost every day of these 51 years together. Yet, they are also realistic in the knowledge that although their marriage appears smooth to outsiders, they know that it was the daily compromises and ups and downs that led them to where they are today. I had the pleasure of bonding with the couple and their daughter, Dr. Loraine Diego, while on a Mediterranean cruise last summer. I learned Rey served 22 years in the U.S. Navy, then later worked at the V.A. Hospital in the Westwood neighborhood of Los Angeles. Nora was a midwife in the Philippines, then became an LVN in the U.S. After I learned of their “colorful” love story, I came up with the following three tips to a successful marriage. Tip #1: “Don’t just fall for ‘love at first sight.’ Love beyond what the eyes can see. On initial appearance, they are the typical “opposites attract.” She is talkative, loud, fun-loving,
The Global Kababayan G. TönGi Monday, March 6 - Melissa Roxas, a licensed acupuncturist and practitioner of East Asian Medicine, comes to the show. Roxas specializes in helping women, children, and their families find freedom from pain and chronic illness. Her specialties are on her website for your reference www. littlesageco.com. Tuesday, March 7 - Come join us for our “Know Your Rights” episode as spokespeople from Migrante & Filipino Migrant Center organizations come together to share the rights of kababayans with or without legal documentation to stay here in the U.S. Get informed
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age gracefully
BRUSSELS SPROUTS:
A Mighty Cancer-Fighting Vegetable
BY GRACE O
Brussels sprouts, pomegranate, and four common pantry ingredients are all that is needed to put together this colorful and crowd-pleasing side dish. Roasted Brussels sprouts are easy to make and filled with digestion-boosting fiber and beneficial antioxidants. Even those skeptical of this healthy cruciferous vegetable will love it alongside tart and juicy pomegranate and chopped walnuts. Enjoy this plant-based dish throughout the fall and winter seasons!
Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate and Walnuts Serves 2 Ingredients 16 halved Brussels sprouts 2 Tbs. coconut oil Salt and pepper to taste ⅓ cup pomegranate arils ⅓ cup walnut halves and pieces (toasted if desired) 2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil 1 Tbs. balsamic vinegar
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and prepare a baking sheet. Combine Brussels sprouts, coconut oil, and salt and pepper and spread cut side down on baking sheet. Place baking sheet on center rack and roast until Brussels sprouts are tender and browned in areas, 30-40 minutes. 2. Remove Brussels sprouts from oven and transfer to serving dish. Sprinkle with pomegranate and walnuts and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar before serving.
© 2017 by FoodTrients.com
Brussels sprouts may be small but they offer big benefits. These mighty sprouts represent a cancer-fighting powerhouse and are part of the cruciferous cabbage family which have more cancer-preventative nutrients than any other category of vegetables. They contain a chemical called sinigrin that suppresses the development of pre-cancerous cells, causing them to self-destruct. The sulfur-containing compounds in Brussels sprouts are what activate the cancer-fighting enzyme systems in your body. Brussels sprouts are available fresh September through March. They are delicious and take on an almost creamy texture when they are roasted with olive oil, a little salt, pepper and a splash of lemon juice.
GRACE O is the creator of FoodTrients®, a unique program for optimizing wellness and longevity. She is the author of two award-winning cookbooks – The Age Gracefully Cookbook and The Age Beautifully Cookbook, which recently won the National award for Innovation from the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards. She is a fusion chef with a mission to deliver 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
spontaneous; whereas he rarely smiles, rarely talks, rarely mingles, and rarely leaves the house. When Rey first met Nora that fateful day over 51 years ago, Rey was immediately smitten. But there was a small hitch: she was dating his younger brother, Roger, with whom she was “barkada” with for over 10 years. Rey had already been in the U.S. Navy for a few years, and was in Manila on vacation, looking for a possible wife.
Of course, Roger was in total objection to this, but as time went on, the attraction between Rey and Nora could not be denied. One trait that both Rey and Nora shared was they both wanted to live “abroad”, even though that was not a popular notion at that time. But if you were to ask Nora nowadays about choosing between the two brothers, she will tell you, without a doubt, that she knows that she married the PAGE B3
Programming for Kababayan Today, March 6-10, 2017 and watch the program! Wednesday, March 8 - Annie Nepomuceno joins us as the Asian Journal shares the latest headlines relevant to the Fil-Am community. Mary Grace Barrios and Steve Zimmer discuss the possibility of the LAUSD passing the ethnic studies program as part of the core curriculum for graduation, and the passage of Proposition 58 for bilingual education in California. Mia McLeod shares her expertise on real estate and the loan programs available for home buyers. Thursday, March 9 - 2017 Officers and Board Members of the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce - SouthBay Los Angeles Area (FACC-SLAA) will be celebrating the Chamber’s successes as well as presenting the
new set of business and community Services Awardees and Scholars at the FACC-SLAA Annual Induction & Fundraising Gala! Producer Nic Evangelista shares the Philippine artifacts at the Chicago Field Museum. Friday, March 10 - Watch kababayans who participated in the Women’s March this year. *** Giselle “G” Töngi is the host and producer of Kababayan Today, a daily talk show that features relevant topics for Filipinos 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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entertainment
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • mARch 4-7, 2017
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Jericho Rosales, Bela Padilla to release new movie By Robbie
Pangilinan Philstar.com
JERICHO Rosales’ ABS-CBN teleserye, “Magpahanggang Wakas,” just ended, and it was well-received by audiences. He has definitely taken it a notch higher with more mature scenes opposite his equally hot partner,
Arci Muñoz. The FM Reyesdirected teleserye lasted four months. Even before “Magpahanggang Wakas” ended, Echo has already signed up for more projects. He is making his movie comeback through “Luck at First Sight,” showing this March, and has even missed celebrating Valen-
Meet the outstanding couple...
Rey asked Roger’s permission to court Nora, to which Roger sternly right brother. She says that their declined. As Rey and Nora’s friendlove is way “beyond looks.” Nora ship grew, the distance and “sama continues, “Rey may not be as fair- ng loob” between the brothers skinned like me or tall and mestizo likewise grew. Rey and Nora soon like his brother, but it was beyond realized that they were becoming his physical features that made me serious with each other and started attracted to him. It was the way he planning for marriage. Roger was treated me and everyone I love. totally against this, but fate would He is very thoughtful, loving, and soon sadly intervene. Roger was down-to-earth.” a pilot in the Philippine Air Force. Tip #2: Are you in a long-dis- While on duty doing pilot exercises tance relationship? Don’t just sur- in Batangas, his plane tragically vive it, savor it! crashed. He’s currently buried at Soon after their wedding in No- the Libingan ng mga Bayani. vember 1965, Nora joined Rey in While his passing was a sad time the U.S. During Rey’s Navy career, for the family, it did finally open the they moved every three years to way for the wedding to take place. diverse locations like Nantucket Rey asked for Nora’s hand in marIsland, Massachusetts; South Carolina; Florida, Guam, Seattle, and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; and eventually moved back to the Philippines for a few years as well. Wherever Rey was stationed, Nora was able to find employment as a nurse or as a medical secretary. They forged a simple yet comfortable life, just the two of them, without the help of relatives, and there were hardly any kabayans around. And they witnessed world history firsthand — they met the Kennedy family while in Nantucket, lived in the deep South during Civil Rights Movement, and were in the Philippines during the turbulent last years of the Marcos era, including EDSA I. Nora relays a story that while she was a newlywed in Nantucket, Rey insisted that she had to learn how to drive. She argued back “Why don’t you want to drive me? Don’t you love me?” Rey answered, “You need to learn how to drive, dear, because there are times when I will be away on the ship. Then you will be left behind alone with the children.” Now, she is so glad she listened to her husband because you can hardly keep her home now! Tip #3: Learn to count the “blessings in disguise” and cherish them As mentioned before, Nora was dating Rey’s brother, Roger. PAGE B4
tine’s Day with wife Kim Jones as he was shooting for this movie with Bela Padilla. The multi-awarded actor is the new M. Lhuillier ambassador, joining the roster of celebrities who have been effectively endorsing the brand over the years. The M. Lhuillier Group of Companies and Calayan Medi-
cal Group partnership is eyeing Echo to endorse their first clinic in Cebu, the ML Calayan Skincare and Aesthetic Center Cebu – Oakridge. The cinema and television actor, singer and songwriter is deemed by no less than ML Group Chairman Michel Lhuillier to be “one of the best.”
riage from her parents before he flew back to the U.S. A few months later, he returned to Manila for their wedding, and a few months after that, she joined him in the U.S. Fast forward to their 50th wedding anniversary, they had a humble celebration at Max’s Restaurant in Glendale, California. This was because they had their wedding reception at Max’s Restaurant in Quezon City 50 years prior. They then had two cruises gifted to them by their two children — their son and daughter-in-law brought them on a Mexican Riviera Cruise and their daughter brought them on a Mediterranean cruise. I asked Tita Nora what’s their secret, she replied: “Whenever there is any disagreement, kailangan talaga isa sa inyo ang magbibigay.
You take turns willing to make amends, to keep the peace. Huwag magsabay ng init ng ulo. Rey and Jericho Rosales and Bela Padilla star in “Luck at First Sight.” I are very careful with our words when we are mad because we don’t want to regret that we did not mean, while we were angry. And the couple that laughs together, stays together.” *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration . To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com
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B march 4-7, 2017 • La WEEKEND aSIaN JOUrNaL
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Care1st Health Plan is an HMO and an HMO SNP plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the California State Medicaid Program. Enrollment in Care1st Health Plan depends on contract renewal. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. *Calling this number will direct you to a license insurance agent. To request this information for free in other languages, call 1-800-544-0088 (TTY: 711) 8 a.m. to 8p.m., seven days a week. Benefits, formulary, pharmacy network, premium and/or co-payments/co-insurance may change on January 1 of each year. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. Part D premium may vary based on the level of Extra Help you receive. This information is available for free in other languages. Please contact Member Services: 1-800-544-0088 (TTY 711), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week. Esta información está disponible gratuitamente en otros idiomas. Comuníquese con Servicios para los Miembros: 1-800-544-0088 (TTY 711), de 8:00 a.m. a 8:00 p.m., los 7 días de la semana. 忁枭屣屯妲ẍ℞⬫婆妨㍸ὃˤㅯ婳倗䴉㚫⒉㚵⊁嗽烉屣䅙 䶂 1-800-544-0088 ĩ倥晄⍲婆晄Ṣ⢓⮰䶂711) 㭷忙ᶫ⣑彎℔炻㖑ᶲ8:00ġ溆军㘂ᶲ8:00 溆ˤCare1st Health Plan complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Care1st Health Plan cumple con las leyes federales de derechos civiles aplicables y no discrimina por motivos de raza, color, nacionalidad, edad, discapacidad o sexo. Care1st Health Plan 思⬰怑䓐䘬倗恎㮹㪲㱽⼳夷⭂炻ᶵ⚈䧖㕷ˣ兂刚ˣ㮹㕷埨䴙ˣ⸜漉ˣ㭀晄ㆾ⿏⇍侴㬏夾ảỽṢˤ Care1st is an independent licensee of the Blue Shield Association.
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COMMUNITY Journal
Your Immigration Solution Rafael ToRRes, III and nancy MIlleR ON February 21, 2017, the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) released two new memoranda, which outline how DHS plans to implement President Trump’s recent executive orders concerning the immigrant community. You are probably wondering how these new memoranda may impact you or your family; Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is here to help. The memoranda demonstrate that DHS intends to aggressively enforce removal provisions against all who may have violated any immigration law. The first memorandum “Enforcement of the Immigration Laws to Serve the National Interest,” focuses on strict enforcement. Of particular note is that DHS is broadly expanding its enforcement priorities. DHS states that only those covered by the memoranda from DHS regarding the program commonly known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, are exempted from enforcement. In conjunction with this, DHS is expanding enforcement priorities to include those who have “committed acts which constitute a chargeable criminal offense.” This is very broad. It includes those who have been charged with, but not convicted of, a crime or those whom the government believes may have committed a crime even if they have not been charged. Furthermore, many entries into the United States that do not comply with the law (including reentry after removal without government permission) are violations of criminal law. Additionally, DHS states that anyone who is a priority is treated as having equal priority for enforcement actions. Thus, DHS now prioritizes anyone who has committed acts which constitute a criminal offense in the same category as those who have actually been convicted of a crime. The stated plan for enforcing these new
How do DHS’s new rules affect you? priorities includes the hiring of thousands of new DHS officers, using local law enforcement as immigration officers, as well as requiring local law enforcement to provide information to DHS about local communities to aid in carrying out their enforcement priorities. Do non-citizens still have rights in this increased enforcement atmosphere? Yes, they do and it is important for them to know and exercise those rights as well as to file for all immigration benefits for which they may be eligible. The second memorandum “Implementing the President’s Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Improvement Policies,” describes new DHS policies and procedures to increase penalization of entry without inspection or with false documentation. A major portion of this memorandum emphasizes the importance of detaining persons as “the most efficient means by which to enforce the immigration laws,” and, as such, restricts the ability for detained persons to secure their release from detention. This memorandum also repeats the goal of hiring thousands of additional officers and agents, together with the use of local law enforcement to “perform the functions of an immigration officer,” including the apprehension and detention of persons. It is unclear how the local law enforcement agencies will respond to this command, but it appears safe to conclude that DHS’ overall strength in terms of numbers of officers investigating and de-
taining persons will increase dramatically. Another major portion of this memorandum expands the use of expedited removal against certain persons. Expedited removal is the process by which DHS can remove a person from the United States without a hearing before an immigration judge or review by the Board of Immigration Appeals. DHS reiterates in this memorandum that it has the authority to employ the expedited removal process against those who are apprehended anywhere in the United States and who entered without inspection (meaning without papers) or who sought entry by means of a false claim to U.S. citizenship or without valid entry documents, and who have not been continuously present in the United States for two years. Formerly, expedited removal was only used against persons apprehended within 100 miles from a United States border and within 14 days of the person’s entry to the United States. There is no appeal of an expedited removal order. It can only be contested by a claim of credible fear of returning to one’s home country. How does all of this affect you? Clearly, anyone whose immigration status is not settled and secure is at risk. As stated above, non-citizens (as well as citizens) should know and exercise their rights. They should consider seeking the immigration benefits that they are legally eligible for. In some cases, this may mean ap-
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Minding Your Finances Atty. RAymond BulAon A PROSPECTIVE client was consulting with me the other day about credit card debts that have been piling up. He looked shocked and confused as we sorted through all the credit card statements on my desk and added up how much he owed. $65,000! That’s how much the statements said he owed! How could this be? He said he remembered paying a lot of these debts off just a few years ago. When I asked him how it was possible for him to owe that much again, he replied: “Honestly, I don’t know how”. For the vast majority of people, their debt problems usually stem from a series of events or bad financial decisions. It can be that a lot of people simply don’t keep track of what they charge on their credit cards. So they use their credit cards for everyday purchases without realizing how much debt they are accumulating. Some use their credit cards
Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth uRSuA ReyeS THERE seems to be a misconception in the general public that you can only obtain a divorce in California if your spouse will sign the divorce papers. I get this question a lot from our family law clients. The fact is that California is a no fault state and you do not need your spouse’s signature in order to get a divorce. What is more important is being able to properly serve your spouse with the divorce petition and satisfy the jurisdictional requirement of the Court by showing that either you or your spouse resided in the State for at least 6 months prior to filing the petition and in the County for 3 months prior to filing the petition. When you file a divorce petition, you have to serve your spouse with the summons and petition. Your spouse then has 30 days to file a response after being served with a divorce petition. If your spouse fails to file and serve
Community Journal
Where did your debt problems come from? for so-called “emergencies”. The problem is that anything could pretty much qualify as an “emergency”. The “emergency” could be new furniture that they don’t even need, a new car or an unplanned family vacation. Months or years go by and before they realize it, their debts have skyrocketed beyond their ability to repay. And unless their income has increased over that period of time, it becomes a struggle to make the debt payments every month. If you don’t have the extra cash lying around every month to make those increasing debt payments, it will only be a matter of time before you start defaulting. And from there it just gets worse and worse until one day you have a big financial emergency in your hands. Some people even resort to borrowing from some credit cards just to pay other credit cards but quickly realize that this strategy doesn’t work and that they are only digging themselves into a deeper financial hole with no way out.
The truth is that your debt problems didn’t just suddenly appear out of nowhere. Experience is often our best teacher. It would help to understand what past decisions led you to your present financial circumstances so that you can avoid making the same mistakes again. This can be a good first step to solving your debt problems. The late author and motivational speaker, Jim Rohn, said: “You may not be able to change your destination overnight but you can change your direction overnight.” It’s never too late to make the change and today is a good day to start. If you need help, call (866) 477-7772.. We have offices in Glendale, Cerritos and Valencia. *** None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully helped thousands of clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call Ray Bulaon Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1 (866) 477-7772. (Advertising Supplement)
Can I obtain a divorce if my spouse refuses to sign? you with a response, you can file a request for default against your spouse after 30 days. You can also file a proposed judgment for the court to approve. The default procedure can be done even if there are issues of property division, custody, visitation, and support. However, the Court will still review your proposed judgment and property division to make sure it conforms to the policy towards equal division of community property. Meaning, you have to propose a division of community property that is pretty much equal between the spouses. If your proposed property division is one sided such as distributing all community property to you and giving all the community debts to your spouse, the Court would probably not grant your judgment. The Court would probably set a hearing for you to explain why this is an equal division of community property. The only time you may need your spouse’s signature is if your spouse files a response to
your divorce petition. This is called “contesting” the divorce. If your divorce is contested by your spouse, you can resolve the case either by “settlement” or by “trial.” However, you do not have to settle all the issues in the case at once. Under the concept of divisible divorce, you can settle some of the issues and set the other issues which you and your spouse cannot agree on for trial. Our office try to resolve cases through settlement because it is more cost effective and the parties are usually happier with the outcome. In that situation, the parties may avoid the cost and uncertainty of going to trial by executing what is called a stipulated judgment which is in essence an agreement as to all the issues in the divorce case. For issues which you and your spouse cannot agree on, you will have to go through the litigation process which involves obtaining discovery, exchanging declarations of disclosures, and prepar-
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Tax Tips VictoR Sy, cPA, mBA
(Part 1 of 3)
WHILE audit penetration has, decreased, the quality of audits has improved. Auditors undergo specialization training. They conduct economic reality audits that involve looking at issues beyond your tax returns into how you survive with the amount of income that you report. This intrusion into the lifestyle of taxpayers has become disturbing. Read on to analyze the life cycle of an audit to prepare for your next potential audit: 1. Returns are filed on April 15 (April 18, 2017 this year) of each year with the extensions through October 15 for individual returns. Upon arrival at the Service Center, the tax returns are sorted and assigned a document locator number (DLN), a control number that serves as the identification for the particular item. Although different DLNs may be assigned to the same taxpayer, the taxpayer’s Social Security number ties all together. 2. Returns are reviewed for completeness after each return is sorted. Selected items are entered into computers and returns are checked for mathematical
Immigration Corner Atty. BRiAn leRneR
QUESTION: I have heard that with Trump’s executive order and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) memo and with further items to be processed, people are being thrown out of the country left and right. I am very afraid. What can I do? Answer: First of all, it is true that Trump is creating fear among immigrants and non-immigrants and people here in the United States illegally. He has created an atmosphere of absolute fear that every corner they walk around and every time they leave their house, they will be deported. However, this is not the case. As much as Trump wants to instill the fear and to make people believe that in his words u PAGE C5 (‘bad dudes’) will just be deport-
Life cycle of an audit accuracy. Paper returns are filed and computerized versions are forwarded to the National Record Center in West Virginia. 3. Information is then entered into a master file, an online file of all known taxpayers, after returns are received at the National Records Center. Returns are classified into individual master files (IMF) and business master files (BMF). The IMF is a magnetic tape record of all individual income tax filers arranged by Social Security numbers. All of tax data and related information pertaining to an individual are posted to this IMF and is continuously updated. The BMF is arranged by employer identification numbers (EIN) and is maintained for corporations, partnerships, payrolls, fiduciaries and gift taxes. 4. Returns are scored with a discriminant function system (DIF) to determine which of you will be reviewed for audits at the National Records Center. The DIF function is a statistical scoring of each return based on information developed by the taxpayer compliance measurement program (TCMP). The scoring is based on total positive income and total gross receipts. Once scored, the returns are sent back to the Service Center (in your case, the Fresno Service Center) for audit consideration. The returns are selected for audit based on the
DIF score and other criteria such as failure to report all W2s and 1099s. Development: The TCMP is old and outdated and was replaced by National Research Program (NRP). A new scoring system has been generated as a result of the recent audit of 50,000 tax returns. 5. The selected returns are then scheduled for audit—internal audit, correspondence audit, office audit, or field audit. Returns with specific questions or easily verifiable information such as missing W2s and 1099s undergo correspondence audits. Office audits require you to visit an IRS office where you will be examined by an office auditor. The more complex returns are assigned to Revenue agents in field audits. *** 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)
Can my removal be expedited? ed, this cannot simply happen. He cannot override the Immigration and Nationality Act. Presently, there is basically only one section of the law that permits ‘expedited removal’. This would be for the following situation: 1. Somebody comes into the U.S. and claims to be U.S. citizen and/or does not have proper papers to actually be admitted to the U.S. 2. Somebody who has not been physically present in the U.S. for at least 2 years; and 3. Somebody who is more than 100 miles from the border. Question: Do I get any due process rights with expedited removal? Answer: Unfortunately, you do not get very many rights. Expedited removal is just what it says. The immigration officer will act as judge, jury, and prosecutor all in one. He or she will make the conclusion you are subject to
expedited removal and then deported out of the U.S. Question: Is there anything I can do in order to better protect myself? Answer: It does seem that Trump and the people under Trump are trying to do this in a manner which might not be appropriate or valid. Thus, the first thing you should do is to have an immigration attorney give you a legal letter explaining why you are NOT subject to INA Section 235 and that expedited removal is not appropriate for you. This letter should have an attachment showing that you have more than two years of physical presence inside the U.S. Once the officer reads this letter, the hope is that he or she will stop trying to ‘expeditedly remove you’ and to put you in regular INA Section 240 removal proceedings where you can fight your case. Question: What if the officer
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Community Journal
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • MARCH 4-7, 2017
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Should you sign Maximizing recovery in personal injury cases that independent contractor agreement?
Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights Atty. C. Joe SAyAS, Jr. Q: TWO years ago, I signed up with an agency to work as a nursing assistant assigned to patients in private homes. Recently, the agency asked me to sign a document stating that I am an “independent contractor” and I was now going to be a “1099 worker.” I received a W-2 before this. I work 5-6 days per week, 12 hours per day, for the same patient every week. I’d like to remain on W-2. What is the effect on me if I sign this agreement? A: If you sign that agreement, the agency will treat you as an independent contractor (IC), and not an employee. At the end of the fiscal year, the agency will issue you a 1099 and you will be responsible for all taxes. Independent contractors are not employees and do not have employee rights or protections. Below are the disadvantages of being an independent contractor: – No right to minimum wage – No right to overtime pay for working more than 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week – No right to be reimbursed for business-related expenses – No right to meal breaks and rest breaks during work – No right to the employer’s share of the social security, unemployment and disability taxes (and you cannot collect these benefits if you are fired or laid off) – No workers’ compensation
protection if you get injured at work – Not entitled to additional benefits such as sick pay, retirement and profit-sharing plans – No protection from discrimination – No protection from wrongful termination of employment However, just because an employee signs an Independent Contractor agreement (and is issued a Form 1099 for taxes) does not mean he or she is correctly classified as one. The independent contractor status is determined by law, not by the parties’ agreement. California courts engage in a fact-centered analysis to determine the worker’s status. A worker is likely not an independent contactor if: 1. The employer has the right to control the manner and means of work performance 2. The employment relationship may be terminated at will, i.e., the worker can be fired 3. The worker is not engaged in an occupation or business distinct from the employer’s 4. The type of work done by the worker is usually done under the employer’s supervision 5. The worker is not required to have any advanced, professional, or artistic skill to perform the work 6. The employer provides the instrumentalities, tools and place of work 7. The worker has to perform the work personally and cannot
hire others to do it for him/her The most important of these factors is the employer’s right to control the worker’s manner and means of performing the job. If the employer has significant control over how the worker should do the work, directs the employee what tasks to accomplish and how to accomplish these tasks, then the worker is an employee, and classifying them as independent contractors is illegal misclassification. Employees misclassified as ICs lose big time – in money and legal protection. Thus, workers classified as ICs should carefully examine the nature of their working relationship with their companies. If they are really employees, they are entitled to back wages, reimbursements for expenses, and the value of employment benefits such as health insurance, retirement or pension benefits.
*** 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-Advocates Forum. (Advertising Supplement)
Lent: Not closing off but engaging in
To Live With Faith reverend rodel G. BAlAGtAS WE had the pleasure of having Bishop Joseph Brennan celebrate Ash Wednesday mass at the seminary last week. In his homily, he shared a funny act he put on while working as vicar general of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. One day while he was in a jocular mood, he took the sign “Out to Lunch” that his secretary would place on her desk during lunch breaks and put it around his neck. He then walked around the office to see the reactions of people around him. Some laughed at him, others found him amusing, and some did not say any word. The bishop wanted to make a statement about how we often like to put signs on our bodies that mean something else like, “Sorry, I can’t talk to you,” or “Sorry, I’m closed off.” The bishop explained then that Lent is not about “closing off” or “not engaging in.” It’s about opening our hearts and minds to God in prayers and fasting. It’s about sharing our lives with others in almsgiving. It’s about entering into a heightened period of grace, a time of repentance and conversion. In the commonly used words of many motivational speakers now, it’s about becoming the best version of ourselves. Lent is a time to listen to the
voice of God who knows what is best for us. It’s a period of conscious adherence to the will of God and a loving response to his demands. It’s about sacrificing one’s personal desires so that God may be glorified. Adam and Eve did the opposite in the First Reading this Sunday. They disobeyed God by succumbing to the temptation of pleasure, pride, and power. By eating the apple from the forbidden tree, they failed to be faithful to God’s command. On the other hand, Jesus did something different in the Gospel. He reversed the sinful act of Adam and Eve by resisting every temptation of the devil by not allowing any appetite for pleasure, power, and easiness overcomes him. He stood on his grounds and was victorious in following his Father’s will. During this Lenten season, let’s look into our lives and think of the ways on how we succumb to the lures of sex, possessions, pride, appearance, anger, and violence. Let’s look at our habits. Are we eating too much and buying too much? Are we wasting too much time and money on unhealthy pleasures that suck energies out of us, which we can use for other meaningful activities and relationships? Are we easily prone to anger, hatred, and judgmental behavior? Fr. John Foley, S.J. is right in presenting us these questions: “Could this Lent be the right time
to unscramble your values? Since God is the most wonderful and loving being everywhere, do you really want to block him out with lesser, undependable desires, especially those that boil down to riches, honors or pride? Isn’t this true: whatever really counts in your life is actually rooted in the love of God and not the other way around?” The Church invites us to enter this season of Lent with a spirit of introspection and examination of our lives, and willingness to change our ways. It’s a period to return to the original identity and grace that God has given us: We are his children, each one of us is special in his eyes. Let no other voice prohibit us from seeing this truth. Let no other affairs darken our souls to prevent us from seeing the beauty and the goodness that lies within us. Let Lent be a time of renewal and strength of will and confidence! *** 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.
Executive Order 13768
Enhancing public safety in the interior of the United States
staying aliens or those working ON January 25, 2017, Presiwithout employment authorizadent Trump issued one of his tion who “in the judgment of controversial executive actions an immigration officer” poses on immigration, Executive Orrisk to “public safety or nationder 13768 entitled “Enhancing al security” can be deported. Public Safety in the Interior of Anyone who “(c)ommitted acts the United States” which effecthat constitute a chargeable tively places any undocumented criminal offense” can also be individual in the United States at deported, even if no charge risk of deportation. The executive has been filed, or even if one action directs the Department of has been filed but not yet reHomeland Security (DHS) Secresolved. Aliens who committed tary to prioritize the removal of misdemeanors or minor ofaliens who are subject of specific Atty. Gwendolyn Malaya-Santos fenses such as driving without sections of the Immigration and Naturalization Act (INA) on criminal and related a license, vandalism, or jaywalking can be considinadmissibility grounds, security and related inad- ered an enforcement priority. There is no ranking missibility grounds, fraud, misrepresentation inad- in the priorities. A person guilty of driving without missibility grounds expedited removal of inadmis- a license is an equal priority under the executive sible arriving aliens, criminal grounds of removal, action just like a person who committed a felony such as murder or robbery. security and related grounds of removal. In connection with this shift in immigration enHowever, in addition to these INA sections, the executive order likewise identifies as enforcement forcement, the DHS is expected to hire additional priorities individuals who “(a) Have been convict- 10,000 ICE officers to enforce the executive aced of any criminal offense; (b) Have been charged tion. If you are contemplating of filing any waiver apwith any criminal offense, where such charge has not been resolved; (c) Have committed acts that plication or any immigration petition for that matconstitute a chargeable criminal offense; (d) Have ter, it is advisable to seek the counsel of an imengaged in fraud or willful misrepresentation in migration lawyer to guide you on the intricacies of connection with any official matter or application filing for such a petition. before a governmental agency; (e) Have abused *** any program related to receipt of public benefits; Atty. Gwendolyn Malaya-Santos is a member of the State Bar of (f) Are subject to a final order of removal, but who California and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines. To schedule have not complied with their legal obligation to for a free initial in-person consultation, please call Tel. Nos. (213) depart the United States; or (g) In the judgment 284-5984 or (626) 329-8215. Atty. Santos’ office is located at 3450 of an immigration officer, otherwise pose a risk to Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1200-105, Los Angeles, CA 90010. public safety or national security.” *** The executive order shows a significant, major Information contained in this article does not, nor is it intended to, constitutes shift in U.S. immigration policy, in contrast with legal advice for any specific situation and does not create a lawyer-client that of the previous administration. The enforce- relationship. It likewise does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or ment priorities are very broad and encompassing prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter. making any undocumented alien an enforcement We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under priority. For instance, visa violators such as over- the Bankruptcy Code. (Advertising Supplement)
UNDER Howell v. Hamilton Meats & Provisions (2011) 52 C.4th 541, the California Supreme Court ruled that persons who are injured and who are pursuing a personal injury claim cannot recover the full amount of medical bills incurred if an insurer paid a smaller, negotiated amount to the medical provider. The Court’s ruling further limited an injured person’s right to recover for past medical expenses. In light of the Howell decision, it is even more important for a person who suffered injury to develop his/her claim for other economic damages. The term “economic damages” means “objectively verifiable monetary losses including medical expenses, loss of earnings, burial costs, loss of use of property, costs of repair or replacement, costs of obtaining substitute domestic services, loss of employment and loss of business or employment opportunities.” Civil Code Section 1431.2(b)(1). A person’s claim for economic damages apart from medical expenses are often overlooked and not pursued by inexperienced counsel. Loss of earnings are often a significant part of an injured person’s claim for economic damages. Damages are recoverable for both past and future lost earnings. To recover for past lost earnings, a person must prove the amount of income or earnings that he/she has lost to date. To recover damages for future earnings, a person must prove the amount of income or earnings that he/she will be reasonably certain to lose in the future as a result of the injury. CACI No. 3903C. How are past lost earnings proven? Medical records, which show the doctor authorizing a release from work or giving instructions to restrict work activities, can support the time taken off from work due to the injury. For those self-employed, medical providers typically do not provide a release from work; however, medical records should record work restrictions placed by the medical provider. After showing that the time off was justified, the next step is to value the lost earnings. A letter from a person’s employer that outlines the amount of time that one has lost as a result of his/her injury, the loss of benefits, and the rate of pay during the time of loss is evidence of the value of one’s loss of earnings claim. Other supporting documents include pay stubs, time cards, and tax returns. The monetary value of sick leave and vacation time that are used due to the injury are also recoverable. For those self-employed, earnings history as reflected by tax returns and profit and loss statements can help prove the value of lost earnings. Similar supporting documentation must be presented for future lost earnings. If you were suffered injury in an auto accident or someone’s premises, please contact our office to discuss your case. To maximize monetary recovery, it is important to have the assistance of an experienced attorney in presenting your personal injury claim. *** 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)
Can my removal be… How do DHS’s new… PAGE C2 t ignores the letter and evidence and still issues an order of expedited removal contrary to the law? Answer: If that is the case, call the immigration attorney immediately. It is possible for us to file a habeas corpus and/or do other federal court interventions to stop the expedited removal showing it is not permitted under the law and is illegal. Additionally, do not sign anything. The only realistic document that the officer would want you to sign is one stating you want to be voluntarily deported. ***
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plying for naturalization as soon as possible. In other cases, this may mean filing a petition for family members while that avenue still exists. Post-conviction relief of a criminal matter may be a timely consideration. No matter what your situation, the best thing you can do is to immediately consult with an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney who can guide you through these uncertain times. ***
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.
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) 795-8009 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)
(Advertising Supplement)
C MARCH 4-7, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
Debt Relief Atty. LAwrence yAng SOMETIMES debtors cannot decide whether they should seek debt relief through Chapter 7 wipe out of all dischargeable debts or a consolidation and reorganization through a Chapter 13. They usually ask me what they should do in their financial situation. I know after handling thousands of bankruptcy cases in the last 30 years, debtors are often depressed about their lives because of the heavy burden of accumulated debt. The worse case scenario was my client many years ago who killed himself a week before we filed his case. It was unfortunate that he took his own life because he left behind a wife and two minor children and a successful professional career. He was enjoying gross income of $500K annual income from his profession but had borrowed money to set up a business that initially did well. Since the business was doing well, he borrowed more money to expand the business, including putting up his house for collateral for the business loans. When the economy slowed down, his business started losing money. He then resorted to borrowing more money to cover the business loss for 18 months. His business was losing $10K a month. After financing losses for 18 months, he came to see me for bankruptcy relief. He looked pretty calm when I interviewed him. How many times must I say it, “YOU OWE YOUR CREDITORS MONEY, YOU DO NOT OWE THEM YOUR LIFE!” Don’t even dare think of killing yourself to get out of debt. Death does not extinguish debt. When a person dies, there is an estate of the deceased that is created in a probate case. Creditors of the deceased can file in their claims in the probate case. So, if you owe too much debt now, you should look at your financial problems objectively. You should choose the solution that best serves your needs. You should seek to protect your own interest and future. You should not succumb to the pressure of differing opinions from friends or relatives. For instance, I had one client who decided to withdraw her Chapter 7 petition because her sister did not approve
Community Journal
Eligible debtors should seek BK relief of it. Client had a mountain of debt, which she absolutely had no way of paying unless she could work four jobs, and she was three months behind in her mortgage payments. Objectively speaking, the right solution for her was a Chapter 7 to wipe out $80K of credit card debt and use the money saved from not having to pay $80K of credit cards to update her house payments. Without credit card payments, she would save $2400 a month. She would have paid off her mortgage arrears in 3 months. She would have obtained a fresh start without the burden of accumulated debt. Instead, she wanted to make her sister happy and chose not to protect her own interest, her own future. She was not thinking clearly. After 6 months she returned to me saying that she wanted to go through with her Chapter 7 case because her house was already foreclosed and she still owed the 2nd trust deed holder was still calling her to collect $50K of the 2nd mortgage even though she no longer owned the house, and the $80K of credit cards are calling her night and day. Eligible debtors should consider the following objective reason to seek bankruptcy relief: 1. Based on debtor’s net income and expense analysis, debtor has no ability to pay off his or her unsecured debts. In other words, even if debtor’s intention is to pay off debt, realistically speaking, debtor cannot pay of debts over a reasonable period of time. This means that debtor will be locked in permanent indebtedness, a slave of debt! Therefore, correctly, debtor should find a legal way of getting out of debt as soon as possible. Here in America, bankruptcy is the legal way of getting out of debt and becoming productive again while you keep most if not all of your assets including your house, cars, retirement accounts etc. The right to bankruptcy is guaranteed by the constitution and even Walt Disney filed for Chapter 7 twice before Mickey Mouse and Disneyland became successful. If Mr. Disney did not obtain a fresh start twice before, we would have no Disneyland to enjoy today. 2. Too much debt destroys the household’s ability to save and invest money to secure the
family’s future. If debtor makes $5,000 a month but has to pay out all of the $5,000 for monthly overhead and to make minimum payments on credit card debt of say, $30K, debtor is living a hand to mouth existence. Debtor saves nothing and invests nothing year in and year out. With accumulated debt you condemn yourself to Sisyphean existence. I don’t mean you become a sissy. You become like SISYPHUS. In Greek mythology, Sisyphus was the king of Corinth who was punished for his deceitfulness by the Greek gods (who are of course false gods), to roll an immense boulder up a hill, only to watch it come back to hit him, repeating this action for eternity. So your “Sisyphean existence” means a laborious and futile existence. By the time that debtor realizes that he has worked for 20 years without nothing saved and invested, it will be too late because by that time, debtor will be pushing sixty. Most people save and invest money whilst I their twenties to fifties. Debtors who have too much debt unfortunately are robbed of the ability to save and invest for decades. Thus, a smart person who has too much debt but wants to save and invest must immediately correct the debt situation or else he or she will get old poor. The last thing a senior wants to have at retirement is debt. If you service $30K of credit card debt for 20 years, you would have paid your credit card masters $240K and still owe the same $30K when you retire at 66. If you got rid of these cards with Chapter 7 at the age of 46, you would have invested $240K starting at $12K a year and growing at $12K a year. Properly invested, you could have $400K saved when you retire at 66 and zero debt. Even if you made the mistake of carrying these cards into retirement, you must get rid of them now because now you depend on social security, which is just enough to cover basic monthly necessities. Whether you are 40 or 60 or 70, you must get rid of credit cards now and become productive again! 3. Re-establishment of credit can start immediately. Debtors are able to begin reestablishing credit by paying their car and housing loans timely. Debtors will
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Calendar of Events across
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Free women’s self-defense workshop in Los Angeles
A free women’s self-defense workshop will be held on Saturday, March 5 from 2 to p.m. at St. Columban Filipino Ministry (125 Loma Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90026). It will be hosted by the Los Angeles Philippine Women’s Club in tandem with the Women’s Council of the St. Columban Parish. This is open to all genders. For more information, please contact MOTHER at (213) 268-3222.
MARCH 6
Talk and book signing with Susan Quimpo, author of “Subversive Lives” in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey Come see Susan Quimpo, one of the authors of “Subversive Lives” on Monday, March 6 at the Free Public Library of Hasbrouck Heights from 6 to 8 p.m. “Subversive Lives” is a memoir by eight siblings (plus one by marriage) who dedicated themselves to the anti-Marcos resistance in the Philippines. Quimpo will talk about her personal experience during the Marcos years. Books will be available for sale. A book signing will follow after the talk. The Free Public Library of Hasbrouck Heights is located at 320 Boulevard, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604.
MARCH 9
Talk and book signing with Susan Quimpo, author of “Subversive Lives” in New York Come see Susan Quimpo, one of the authors of “Subversive Lives” on Thursday, March 9 at the 67th Street New York Public Library from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. “Subversive Lives” is a memoir by eight siblings (plus one by marriage) who dedicated themselves to the anti-Marcos resistance in the Philippines. Quimpo will talk about her personal experience during the Marcos years. A book signing will follow after the talk. The New York Public Library is located at 328 E 67th St. (between 1st and 2nd Ave.), New York, NY 10065.
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CAAMFEST35 in San Francisco & Oakland Come to the 35th anniversary of CAAMFest from March 9-19 and immerse yourself in expansive and diverse programs celebrating the best in Asian American film, music and food. The Center for Asian American Media (CAAM) is a non-profit organization dedicated to presenting stories that convey the richness and diversity of Asian American experiences to the broadest audience possible. The annual CAAMFest is the nation’s largest showcase for new Asian American and Asian films. It presents approximately 125 works in San Francisco and Oakland over the course of 11 days. Tickets can be purchased online or in person. For more information, please visit http://caamfest.com.
MARCH 11
CSFLU to hold dinner-dance in Brea, CA The City of San Fernando La Union Association (CSFLU) will hold its annual dinnerdance at the Embassy Suites in Brea, CA on March 11. Music will be provided by Willie Manacsa & The Midnight Motion Band. For more information, please call Vangie So, president of the association at (626) 485-3110.
Whitney High School’s 30th annual Pilipino Culture Night in Cerritos, CA Whitney High School’s Club Kaibigan invites you to attend “Ang Ating Salaysay (Our Story),” the 30th annual Pilipino Cultural Night on Saturday, March 11. The matinee show is at 2 p.m. ($12 / ticket), with the evening performance at 6:30 p.m. ($15 / ticket). The show will be held at the high school’s Mac Auditorium (16800 Shoemaker Ave., Cerritos, CA 90703). Any questions can be directed to clubkaibigan@gmail.com.
“Walk for Wishes” in Las Vegas Powered by wish families, volunteers, donors, and friends, Walk For Wishes is a nationwide Make-A-Wish fundraiser celebrating thousands of wishes that have already been granted, while raising funds for future wishes. Proceeds from this event help fund wishes that bring life-changing joy and hope to children battling life-threatening medical conditions in our community. On Saturday, March 11, Make-A-Wish® Southern Nevada partners with Caesars Foundation to present its 16th annual Walk for Wishes. Registration opens at 7 a.m., with opening ceremonies at 8:00 a.m. The 5K Run will begin at 8:30 a.m. and the 1 mile walk at 8:35 a.m. It will be held at Town Square Las Vegas at 6605 Las Vegas Blvd. South (northwest corner of Town Square Blvd. and North St.), Las Vegas, NV 89119.
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Consular outreach mission in Phoenix, AZ A team from the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles will conduct a Consular Outreach Mission in Phoenix, Arizona on March 11 and 12. It will be held at Halo Halo Kitchen (3553 W. Dunlap Ave., Phoenix, Arizona 85051) from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 5 p.m by appointment and completed documents only. Please email arizona.consularoutreach@gmail.com with submissions and applications before March 3. No walk-in applicants will be accepted. The following consular services will be rendered: renewal and/or first-time applications for electronic passport ($60 processing fee + $24 mailing fee). New passports will be released to the applicant by mail twelve (12) weeks from March 15, 2017. No lost passport applications will be accepted; Applications for the retention and re-acquisition of Philippine citizenship pursuant to the Dual Citizenship Law ($50 processing fee). Oath taking will be scheduled on the same day for qualified applicants. Applicants are advised to wear appropriate clothing for the occasion; Applications for report of marriage & birth ($25 processing fee + $7 mailing fee); and registration for overseas voting for the 2019 national elections for senators and party list representatives. Fees must be paid in person at the scheduled appointment. Only cash, postal money order or cashier’s checks are accepted. Personal checks will not be accepted. For more information, please visit http://www.philippineconsulatela.org/. A final list of all applicants will confirmed appointment schedules will be posted on the website by March 8.
MARCH 18
Free vision screenings & walk for sight in San Fernando, CA On Saturday, March 18, the Lions Club event Lions Eyes Across America will be having free vision screenings and a “Walk For Sight” at San Fernando Recreation Park (208 Park Ave, San Fernando, CA 91340). Registration is at 9 a.m. and the walk starts at 10 a.m. Donate your old eyeglasses and hearing aids. Gather family and friends to support low vision resources throughout Los Angeles. The $15 registration includes a 2017 Lion Eyes T-Shirt. Contact Vangie Tabberrah at (818) 399-7965 or csvangie.tabb@gmail.com.
FASO’s “Swing the Night Away” in Glendale, CA Swing the night away with Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO) on Saturday, March 18 at the Glendale Hilton! Bring your dancing shoes for an evening of swing, two-step, rumba, cha-cha, tango and waltz! Dance Instructors will be available on the floor. You can feel free to sit back, relax and enjoy the music! No host cocktails at 6:00 p.m, with dinner at 7:00 p.m. Tickets (dinner included) are $125. You can also contact Arlene Ferrolino (213) 248-9850, Bob Shroder (818) 395-8936 or JL Garcia (310) 936-2988 for tickets and sponsorship opportunities information. FASO is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Proceeds will be used to sustain the orchestra, and to fund its education and outreach programs. More information is available on the FASO website at http://www.fasofoundation.org.
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National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) Region 10 Empowerment Conference in San Diego, CA You are cordially invited to the “RISE UP” Regional Empowerment Conference of National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA), sponsored by AARP Real Possibilities on Saturday, March 25. Registration is $40 per person, which can be done online or at the door. The conference will be held at Clarion Hotel National City, 700 National City Blvd., National City, CA 91950. To register online, please visit http://www.NaFFAASDEmpowermentconference.eventbrite.com.
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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • MARCH 4-7, 2017
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People and Events
St. Paul Surigao hospital and univeristy recovering from earthquake IT has been over three weeks since the devastating earthquake hit Surigao. Recovery and clean up are in progress as Surigao City and Surigao del Norte towns recoup. St. Paul Surigao is dealing with repairing damage in the Hospital and aiding St. Paul University employees and Surigao residents affected by the earthquake. St. Paul Manila Alumnae USA is accepting donations to help St. Paul Surigao. St. Paul Manila Alumnae USA is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Your donation is tax deductible. For more information, email spmausa@ gmail.com or visit www.spmausa-inc.org or https://www.facebook.com/spmausa/ The two ministries of the Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres in Surigao City are the Education Ministry through the St. Paul University Surigao, with Sr. Marie Rosanne Mallillin, SPC as President, and Health Care Ministry through the St. Paul Surigao University Hospital, with Sr. Norma Patricia Manzano, as Hospital Administrator. The St. Paul University Hospital is a new facility and was recently blessed on January 28. The Hospital was scheduled to be visited and inspected by the officials of the Department of
Health (DOH) in February for review prerequisite to licensing to operate. The earthquake caused major damages on the first floor of the three-story building. Inspection by DOH officials has been postponed until earlyApril. “Construction workers are now working round-the-clock to ready the hospital for inspection on April 1, 2, and 3,” said Sister Lilia Tolentino, Provincial Superior of the Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres in the Philippines. “What the hospital badly needs now is cash donation to replace destroyed equipment, furnishings, and facilities, not to mention, corrective measures to strengthen structural foundation. “We pray that generous persons will help our hospital get back on its feet soon so it can address the health needs of the people of Surigao and the Caraga Region.” The school suffered minor damages and classes have resumed at St. Paul University. St. Paul has sent to Surigao a number of St. Paul Sisters and Guidance counselors from some of its Manila SPC schools to help the Sisters of Surigao debrief the students who have been traumatized by the calamity. In addition, the congregation’s Calamity Fund takes care of the relief goods for
the construction workers and affected residents of the city. “May the Paulinian spirit of solidarity and compassion prevail in the hearts of our Paulinian alumni,” said Sister Lilia. “Let us help St. Paul Surigao!” said Marilyn Abalos, SPMA USA Chair. “It is important to ensure the safe learning environment in the School and equally important the educational and healthcare services St. Paul University Hospital can provide to the people of Surigao!” Ways to give via SPMA USA: TEXT GIVE to 347-429-7304 for the people affected by the
Eligible debtors should seek BK… PAGE C4 t
be able to get new credit cards soon after they obtain discharge. There are banks that give new credit cards to debtors who have completely their bankruptcy because these debtors are actually very good credit risks. They still have good income, have no more debt, and are now more careful in their financial affairs. BK filers qualify to buy houses again
on the second or third year after BK filing if they have been paying their new loans on time. Buying a new car is no problem. On the day of the discharge, you can bring your discharge order to the car dealer. You can get a car loan at higher interest. “Whoever goes to the Lord for safety, whover remains under the protection of the Almighty, can say to Him ‘You are my defender
and protector. You are my God; in You I trust.’ — Psalm 91 *** Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in bankruptcy, business, real estate and civil litigation and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 1000 S. Fremont Ave, Mailstop 58, Building A-1 Suite 1125, Alhambra, CA 91803. (Advertising Supplement)
Can I obtain a divorce if my spouse refuses… PAGE C2 t
ing the case for trial. Ultimately, you will obtain your divorce at trial in addition to adjudication of the distribution of community assets and debts amongst other issues. It is in the best interest of the party to retain the representation of competent counsel who will assert his or her rights under the family code. ***
Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kureyeslaw@gmail.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com.
The new St Paul University Hospital in Surigao whose Dept of Heatth Inspection which has been postponed until early April allowing St. Paul to time for repairs.
Damage at St. Paul University Hospital in Surigao.
***
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.
earthquake, St. Paul Surigao and the Fleur-de-Lis Fund. Give to St. Paul Manila Alumnae USA to serve Surigao and other communities thru the Fleur-de-Lis Fund. The Fleur-de-Lis Fund provides for community projects helping those in need along with healthcare and education initiatives. CHECK: Please make your check out to: St. Paul Manila Alumnae USA, Inc. Mail to: St. Paul Manila Alum-
nae USA, Inc., 4 Park Avenue, #16G, New York, NY 10016 PAYPAL: Send your payment to: www.paypal.com to spmausa@gmail.com ONLINE: Send your payment to www.chase.com via Quickpay to: spmausa@gmail.com (You do not need a Chase bank account, but you will have to sign up Quickpay and know your own bank account and routing number).
For information about giving directly to St. Paul University Surigao, contact spmausa@ gmail.com City of Surigao, Mindanao was hit with a deadly 6.7 magnitude earthquake on February 10th. At least 7 people were reported dead and 120 injured. 11 Surigao del Norte towns were affected by the quake. Major bridges, the city airport, and other infrastructures were damaged. n
Royal Business Bank announces 2017 scholarship program $20,000 in scholarship awards available
ROYAL Business Bank is committed to supporting economically-challenged youth residing in its business service territories to fulfill their dreams of obtaining a higher education. Twenty (20) $1,000 scholarships available for high school seniors planning to attend college as a full-time, degree-seeking student in the fall of 2017. The application deadline is at Wednesday, March 29, 2017 at 11:59 p.m. Eligibility: High school seniors who reside in Los Angeles County, Orange County, Ventura County and Clark County-Nevada Plan to attend a U.S. Accredited 4-Year College/ University or California/Nevada Community College as a 1st year student in the Fall of 2017 (if selected, must submit college acceptance letter for veri-
fication) Have a minimum cumulative unweighted high school GPA of 3.0 Have a household income at or below the County Low Income Level (Must be able to show 2015 or 2016 tax return should applicant be selected for award.) The scholarship is open to ALL MAJORS and there is NO ETHNICITY REQUIREMENT Employees of Royal Business Bank and their immediate family members are NOT eligible to apply All awardees (local to Southern California) must attend the Awards Reception in order to receive the scholarship. The reception will be held in the summer of 2017 in the greater Los Angeles area. Date and location will be provided to awardees when available.
Application Requirements: 1) Application Form; 2) Recommender Form from a Community Service Advisor; 3) Official High School Transcript The scholarship awards will only be used to cover the cost of tuition for attending a college/ university. What is considered cost of tuition varies by institution. For more information and to apply, please visit: http://apcf. org/2017-royal-business-bankscholarship-program/ All materials must be RECEIVED by 11:59 pm on Wednesday, March 29. Anything received (whether mailed, emailed, or faxed) past that date and time will not be considered, regardless of postmark. Questions or inquiries? Contact by phone: (213) 624-6400 ext. 6 or by email: scholarships@ apcf.org n
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& Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ
WITH the election of Donald Trump as president, and his pledge to fulfill his campaign promise of enforcing immigration laws (with news reports of immigration raids throughout the country), many people are anxious and\or terrified about their future in the US. THUMBS UP FOR PH. Chamber of Commerce of the Philippine Islands President Jose Luis Yulo Many of my clients have been Jr. (left) and Global Peace Foundation founder Hyun Jin Preston Moon flash the thumbs up calling asking whether they have sign during the Global Peace Economic Forum 2017 on Wednesday, March 1 at the Marriott to open the door if ICE comes Grand Ballroom in Pasay City. ManilaTimes.net photo by Roger Rañada knocking at their house, what kind of documents should they show, or how they should conduct themselves. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has put out flyers, pamphlets, and brochures about by WilliAM depAsupil on innovation and entrepreneur- what to do if ICE comes knockManilaTimes.net ship, but governed by sufficient ing. Below is AGLU’s advice, WITH the fundamentals for a regulatory and enforcement along with mine: • Do not open the door, unless sustainable growth, the Philip- mechanisms to compel everybody pines can become an economic to behave in a way that aligns the ICE agents show you a warand moral force that can lead to societal values and levels the rant, signed by a judge. Ask to an effort to realize the Associa- playing field for all its citizens, see it through a window, or they should slip it under the door. tion of Southeast Asian Nations’ he said. Government, he stressed, Make sure you are named on (ASEAN) full potential and stabishould do away with the so-called that warrant, and it is signed by lize the rest of Asia. Hyun Jin Preston Moon, found- “closed system” that only benefits a judge. A warrant from ICE does er and chairman of the Global those with influence and social Peace Foundation, bared this vi- access, and deprives the “little sion Wednesday before local and guy” with greater ideas and huge foreign delegates attending the dreams of a shot to prosperity. Moon however stressed that foundation’s four-day convention there are no shortcuts in life, and at Mariott Hotel in Pasay City. For a nation to achieve eco- for a country to achieve a sustainnomic prosperity, it should have able, equitable and prosperous a free economic system anchored PAGE D2
‘PH can be economic, moral force in Asia’
5 China firms eye $10-B PH projects Ventures with local partners range from renewable energy to aviation and shipbuilding by
roy stephen C. CAnivel Inquirer.net
FIvE Chinese firms are interested to set up shop in the country, promising projects with a total estimated value of at least $10.3 billion (about P518 billion), the Board of Investments (BOI) said on Friday, March 3. Trade Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino S. Rodolfo said the companies had submitted their letters of interest to the government, reflecting some of the earliest fruits of a warming relationship between China and the Philippines. Each company would now pursue a feasibility study that would take around three to four months and cover business opportunities in aviation, oil downstream, renewable energy, iron and steel, and shipbuilding and ship repair industries.
While more concrete plans were expected to come out some time this year, Rodolfo said the projects were already estimated to add a total of at least 14,500 jobs by 2022, assuming they would begin their commercial operations in 2020, Rodolfo said. If the companies choose to actually register their investments, this would help boost foreign direct investment pledges from China, which rose by only 4.42 percent to P1.52 billion in 2016 from P1.46 billion the year before, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed. Rodolfo identified the Chinese companies as Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AvIC) International Aero-development Corp., Liaoning Bora Enterprise Group Co. Ltd., Huili Investment Fund Management Co. Ltd., Dalian Wanyang Heavy Industries Co. Ltd., and PAGE D2
The Philippine peso closed at P50.40 on Friday, March 3 its lowest in a decade. Philstar.com Photo
Peso sinks further, closes at P50.40:$1 by Audrey
MorAllo Philstar.com
MANILA — The Philippine peso sank to its lowest level in a decade as it continues to be weighed down by expectations of a rate increase by the US Federal Reserve and a cloud of political uncertainty surrounding the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte. The peso closed at P50.400 to $1 on Friday, March 3, lower than Thursday’s close at P50.310, according to the Philippine Dealing System. Its closing level was the lowest during the day while its intraday high was at P50.315. The Philippine peso remains the
weakest among several Asian currencies which have strengthened against the greenback this year. Aside from expectations over the interest rate in the US, political uncertainties are also pulling down the value of the peso. You have a whole bunch of political developments recently that when you put it all together, people outside will probably say ‘wait, let’s be cautious here’,” Joey Cuyegkeng, senior economist at ING, was quoted by Bloomberg as saying. He added that once the political scene has stabilized, some recovery in sentiment would happen. However, this would take a while, he said.
Business Quote of the Week “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” - Steve Jobs, Apple Inc. co-founder
D
What should I do if ICE comes to my home?
not allow them to enter your home, without your consent. If they don’t have a warrant, ask them to leave the information outside. • If ICE agents force their way into your home, or pressure you to give your “consent,” don’t resist. If you want to exercise your constitutional rights, you can state, “I do not consent to your entry or to your search of these premises. I am exercising my right to remain silent. I wish to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.” Everyone else at the house may also exercise their right to remain silent. • If you are arrested or taken into custody, remain silent, and do not sign anything until you speak with an immigration attorney. Do not lie to ICE, as anything you say can and will be used against you. (They don’t have to remind you of your right to remain silent, as is the case in criminal proceedings). Do not answer any questions, especially those that expose your status, such as where you were born, and whether you have “papers”. • Take detailed notes (or even pictures), concerning their badge numbers, numbers of
agents, time of the raid, type of car they were driving, and exactly what happened. • Have a plan of action in case you are taken into custody. Who will take care of your children or elderly parents if you are picked up? You may want to consider having a Power of Attorney for a trusted family member or friend, so they can make decisions on your children’s behalf, if you are arrested or deported. • Make sure all your important documents are kept in a safe and secure location. This would include passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates, medical records, and other immigration papers. Memorize the phone numbers of two trusted people, because when you are in custody, you would not have access to your phone or “speed dial”. • You may already want to consult with an immigration attorney concerning your rights, benefits, and relief that may be available to you just in case you are ever picked up. You want to be able to immediately call your attorney to help you, if you are suddenly picked up or taken into custody.
• Ordinarily, ICE cannot just take you to the airport and put you on a plane back to your home country. You have the right to appear in front of the judge, present your defenses or claims for relief, the right to appeal, etc. That may be another reason to already seek the advice of an attorney, who can already evaluate your case in advance, so you can “be prepared.” *** 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)
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New terminal at Clark seen easing NAIA congestion by Raadee
S. SauSa ManilaTimes.net
THE development of a new passenger terminal at the Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) is expected to help ease the congestion at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Metro Manila’s huge traffic problem, a top official said. “The CIAC’s plan to put up a new passenger terminal building with a capacity of eight million passengers annually will also ease the congestion at the NAIA and in Metro Manila,” Alexander Cauguiran, CIAC president and chief executive officer, said during a tourism forum on Thursday, March 2. Cauguiran said CIAC seeks to maximize the existing terminal, which has an annual capacity of 4.2 million passengers, in the next two to three years. “Plans of maximizing CRK
(Clark International Airport) are aligned with [Transportation] Secretary [Arthur] Tugade’s efforts to ease the congestion at the NAIA and in Metro Manila,” Cauguiran said. “Clark ought to be the most logical and practical airport of choice of the people from the northern and central parts of Luzon,” he said, noting that travelers from these parts can use Clark to avoid the traffic congestion going to the already overcrowded NAIA. “The Department of Transportation intends to build the terminal by 2019, or before the current administration’s term ends,” he said. He also said studies indicate the inevitable growth of passenger volume at CRK due to the increasing number of flights, hence the need to build a new passenger terminal. Meanwhile, he said airlines
5 China firms eye $10-B... PAGE D1 YiDingTai (YDT) International. Liaoning and its Philippine partner agreed on a joint venture worth $3 billion in the construction and operation of a retail network, oil storage terminal, refinery projects and allied industries in the Philippines with an estimated 2,000 jobs to be created. Huili Investment wants to set up a $3-billion world-class steel mill, which could make the Philippines a major producer of high-quality steel products by 2030. The project, which will be in partnership with both the national government and the private sector, is expected to
have a production output of three million MT of rolled steel, and give jobs to 6,000 people. Dalian is looking at a $2.8-billion project that will convert household and commercial solid waste to energy. The project, which will generate 312 megawatts of electricity for every 4,000 to 5,000 MT of waste, will employ at least 4,500 workers by 2022. YDT International, an affiliate of Dalian Wanyang, wants to develop a 1.5 billion dollar shipbuilding and ship repair facility in the country, which can produce regional-size vessels up to 15,000 deadweight tons.
have heeded the government’s call for more flights out of CRK. Local carriers like Philippine Airlines, Air Asia Philippines, and Cebu Pacific recently inaugurated domestic and international flights from CRK and more operations are set to be launched in the coming months. CIAC is now in talks to have more airlines connect CRK to North America, he added. Photos of the offices of Shenzhen Welnavi in Shenzhen, one of the five largest and wealthiest cities in China. “We are currently in negotiations with air carriers, pertaining especially in connecting Clark to North America,” Cauguiran said. But he declined to name the carriers as the talks were still ongoing. The CIAC chief said this route has a huge potential market from Police raid and shut down factory in China illegally programming Regions 1 to 3 and the Camanava pirate boxes to stream ABS-CBN (Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela) area, which represent SHENZEN, GUANGDONG, a combined population of around CHINA – Alan Zhou and Roland 24.2 million. Lu, the owners and operators of Shenzhen Welnavi Technology Co., LTD (“Shenzhen Welnavi”) factory in Shenzhen, China, who This was a welcome develop- police determined illegally proment, said Rodolfo, especially since grammed pirate IPTV boxes in most roll-on, roll-off (RoRo) ships in Shenzhen and marketed and sold the country were second-hand im- them around the world under the ports from Japan, with the existing “Filstream” brand, were arrested ones in the Philippines averaging and charged with copyright infringement by the Shenzhen Po30 years old. The BOI said that the company lice on Wednesday, March 1, local was studying the proposal with time in Shenzhen, Guangdong, a Philippine partner and that the China. Two senior programmers venture was expected to generate at the factory were also arrested and charged in connection with 2,000 jobs. AVIC International, which did the matter. All those arrested are not disclose its estimated value of expected to remain in custody Photos of the illegal Filstream IPTV boxes found at the Shenzhen Welnavi office in China owned by Alan Zhou and Roland Lu. These are distributed in U.S., Canada and other countries. investment, will explore the manu- pending trial which is likely to facture and provision of helicopters, take place next year. The Shen- 28, 2017 and the company’s serv- Alan Zhou and Roland Lu’s acaircraft and aviation related prod- zhen police team conducted a raid ers and business records were tions were despicable.” of Shenzhen Welnavi on February seized as part of the police team’s ucts, equipment and services. Lawrence revealed also that criminal investigation of the ille- ABS-CBN plans to continue to gal distribution network. initiate and enforce criminal and The arrests in China were civil actions against anyone who the culmination of an eight- steals its movies and TV shows month long worldwide investiga- and offers them via IPTV box, tion spearheaded by the Philip- free websites or on Youtube, Daily pine media and entertainment Motion and Facebook. network ABS-CBN. To date, “ABS-CBN spends millions of the investigation has resulted dollars each year producing these in the arrest and seizure of Fil- TV shows and movies and we will stream box distributors in Illinois not allow these pirates to give and Florida. The criminal arrest them away for free,” Lawrence and prosecution of additional explained. distributors in multiple locations Lawrence had harsh words around the United States and for Zhou and Lu. “Pirates are Canada is ongoing and expected thieves stealing the content that within the coming weeks. ABS-CBN has invested a great Arrested together with Zhou deal of time to create,” she said. were Roland Lu and two program- “I am glad to see them, and their mers, who were all charged with distributors, being criminally copyright infringement with a pursued by every means under maximum penalty of seven years the law in China and the U.S. I in jail. Zhou, Lu and the two pro- am very grateful for the excellent grammers, are expected to stay in work by the police in Shenzhen, jail until trial which is to begin in China, Illinois, and Florida. It is about a year. Shenzhen Welnavi a global operation with an army has been fully shut down. of investigators throughout the Piracy is a cancer in the con- world that helped us get the tent industry” evidence to support the raids in According to ABS-CBN’s AVP China and the United States.” & Head of Global Anti-Piracy EliABS-CBN Global COO Raffy sha Lawrence, “The police have Lopez was very clear about the determined that Alan Zhou and company’s stand against piracy. Roland Lu ran a global piracy op“The management of ABSeration with the intent to interfere CBN has absolutely no tolerance with ABS-CBN’s legitimate busi- for content piracy. We will continness. ABS-CBN/TFC distributes ue to do everything in our power its content through cable provid- to prosecute all who would aters, its own TFC IPTV boxes, tempt to pirate our content,” said as well as via digitally on tfc.tv. Lopez. “Piracy is like a cancer in Alan Zhou and Roland Lu have the content industry. The pirates, disrupted ABS-CBN’s legitimate in their selfish pursuit of shortbusiness. In addition, Filstream’s term profits, have absolutely no distributors contacted ABS-CBN’s regard for their negative impact distributors throughout the US, on the industry. We will continue Canada, Australia and Europe, our vigilance in finding and prossoliciting them to be Filstream’s ecuting all pirates regardless of distributors. They contacted the cost.” customers of ABS-CBN offering As the Filstream signal has their boxes in lieu of ABS-CBN’s been shut down, for all victims legitimate IPTV boxes. They who purchased the Filstream blatantly confused customers boxes, call 1-866-746-6988 now by using ABS-CBN’s registered to receive one month FREE TFC trademarks and logos on their subscription or visit www.tfc-usa. websites and social media sites. com/tfcbox for details.
Filstream pirate box kingpins arrested by Shenzhen Police
‘PH can be economic... PAGE D1 economy, it needs people of conscience, whose collective decisions advance the greater good instead of benefiting a few. “The overarching economic approach of the Global Peace Foundation, hence, calls for less government interference in the marketplace in line with classic liberal economic principles with one very important addition – the development of societies in which the collective ethos is rooted on universally accepted moral ethic that guides the national and global economic systems. Systems, remember, are valuesneutral. It is people who infuse those structures with their unique values perspectives that leads to varying outcomes, whether good or bad,” he said. Key trading hub Moon said the Philippines was ripe to play a key role, thrive economically and lead Asean to its full potential, leading to peace and stability in Asia. He cited, among others, the Philippines’ strategic location and key ties with prosperous countries like Korea, Japan, the US, China and India, abundant natural resources and an English-speaking workforce. “More importantly, I believe the Philippines can become a key trade and economic hub in the larger Pacific Rim region that links East and West as a gateway, whereby it offers distribution,
professional services and manufacturing capabilities, among others,” he said. The Philippines, as chairman of this year’s Asean meetings, can set the tone for the 10 membercountries to demonstrate proper moral and innovative leadership, Moon said. He pointed out that the 10 Asean member-nations have a combined gross domestic product (GDP) of more than $2.6 trillion and a population of over 622 million in a strategically important part of the world. Moon noted that in the 2017 Economic Freedom Index published by the Washington-based Heritage Foundation, the Philippines moved 12 notches higher. He said that since 2012, the Philippines has recorded a remarkable growth rate, saying that the country’s GDP growth for 2016 of 6.8 percent was the second best in Asia, after India. Moon said the reasonably low level of foreign debt, good macroeconomic fundamentals and robust economic growth gave comfort to international markets and rating agencies. “The Philippines is also fortunate to be among the world’s top five minerals reserve countries, with mining permits currently given to cover only 2 percent of the reserve area, which promises enormous future revenue opportunities,” he added.
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ADB commits $4.22-B for PH infra projects
Health@Heart
by Czeriza
ValenCia Philstar.com
MANILA — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has committed to lend $4.22 billion to the Philippines for development and infrastructure programs and extend technical assistance valued at $9.3 million until 2019. The multilateral fund’s new country operations and business plan (COBP) for the Philippines is aimed at helping the country achieve more inclusive growth and address income inequalities and regional disparities. Specifically, it will focus on four areas: sustainable and climateresilient infrastructure, good governance and finance, inclusive employment and education, and regional integration. ADB said countries in developing Asia need to implement regulatory and institutional reforms to make infrastructure more attractive to private investors and generate a pipeline of bankable projects for public-private partnerships (PPP). In this aspect, ADB cited PPP practices in the Philippines as among the “most improving” in the region because of the government’s commitment to introduce well-prepared projects. ADB also recommended the development of capital markets to “help channel the region’s substantial savings into productive infrastructure investment.” Developing Asia and the Pacific need to invest $1.7 trillion annually to sustain its growth momentum, eradicate poverty and respond to climate change, ADB said in a report yesterday. The report, “Meeting Asia’s Infrastructure Needs,” estimates this financing need to reach $26
PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS
trillion from 2016 to 2030, factoring in the need to address climate change mitigation and adaptation needs. Without climate change costs, the region will need $22.6 trillion for the given period, an investment of $1.5 trillion per year. ADB’s new flagship report focuses on the region’s infrastructure needs for power, transport, telecommunications, and water sanitation. Considered in the compilation of the report are the region’s current infrastructure stocks and investments, future investment needs and financing mechanisms. Out of the total climate-adjusted investment needs from 2016 to 2030, $14.7 trillion is seen to be needed for power while $8.4 trillion is required for transport. Investments needed in telecommunications are seen to reach $2.3 trillion while needs for water and sanitation infrastructure are placed at $800 billion. “The demand for infrastructure across Asia and the Pacific far outstrips current supply,” said ADB president Takehiko Nakao.
“Asia needs new and upgraded infrastructure that will set the standard for quality, encourage economic growth, and respond to the pressing global challenge that is climate change.” ADB said infrastructure development in developing Asia has “grown dramatically” in recent decades but a “substantial” infrastructure gap remains. Around 400 million people still lack access to electricity, 300 million lack access to safe drinking water and about 1.5 billion lack access to basic sanitation. Many economies in the region also lack adequate ports, railways, and roads that could connect them efficiently to larger domestic and global markets, said the report. Developing Asia currently invests an estimated $881 billion in infrastructure. The investment gap—the difference between investment needs and current investment levels—is around 2.4 percent of the projected gross domestic product of the region for 2016 to 2020, according to the report.
China Railway keen on PH by Christina
Mendez
Philstar.com
MANILA - President Duterte has met with officials of the China Railway Group Limited in Malacañang and other Chinese business groups in Malacañang on Monday following the misunderstanding caused by the statements of Foreign Affairs Perfecto Yasay on the Philippine claim over South China Sea that caused the cancellation of a highdelegation visit last week. Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said Duterte met with Zhang Zongyan, president of the
China Railway Group Limited to outline possible projects related to the train systems in the country. “It was basically a brief meeting reiterating the commitment of their company to partner with the Philippines regarding key infra projects, including the possible railway projects, consistent with the agreements he made during the State Visit to China,” Abella said. “He also gave a profile of the company and pointed out possible areas of cooperation in building, planning, and maintenance in railways, including especially Mindanao,” Abella said.
Duterte paid a state visit to China last October, which renewed the country’s bilateral relations with Beijing amid the conflict in the South China Sea. The Department of Finance is negotiating with Chinese officials regarding the $9 billion in Official Development Assistance (ODA), as well as commercial loans. Duterte’s meetings with Chinese business leaders also came on the heels of his assurance he would continue to establish better bilateral relations with China and temporary shelf the arbitration ruling on the South China Sea.
WHAT is OPCAB? OPCAB stands for off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery, which is the most popular minimally invasive heart bypass operation today, one that is done on a beating heart. Conventionally, a coronary bypass is done on an arrested heart (chemically-induced cardiac arrest to allow for a quiet field) with the patient connected to a heart-lung machine (pump) that temporarily takes over the oxygenation (lung function) and circulation (heart function) of the patient while the surgery is going on. Is OPCAB better? If at all possible, OPCAB, or beating heart surgery, is preferred. Doing the coronary bypass on a beating (non-arrested) heart precludes the use of the heartlung machine. This pump has the potential of destroying some blood cells, of wasting some essential clotting factors in the blood, and of forming blood clots or air bubbles that could cause stroke, albeit very rare. So, not using the heart-lung machine is a definite advantage, much less invasive and stressful for the patient. As a result, OPCAB patients recover a lost faster, go home much sooner, usually after threefour days after surgery. However, OPCAB is not for everyone. How is the heart stilled? With the patient connected to the pump, the heart is arrested by lowering the body temperature (thru blood cooling using a special cooler machine connected to the pump) down to about 2830 degrees centigrade, and by giving the patient a high dose of potassium chloride which stops the heartbeat in a relaxed (flabby) muscular state. This allows the cardiac surgeon to make tiny (2 mm-4 mm) anastomoses (suturing together two arteries or a vein and an artery of the heart, like sewing a sleeve to the shirt, an end-to-side or T-connection) using a magnifying surgical loop (special eyeglasses for an enlarged view), on a non-beating heart. What are the sizes of the arteries? The coronary arteries (which feed the muscles of the heart) and the internal mammary arteries (which are harvested as grafts from the undersurface of the breastbone, one from the left and one from the right side) are usually about 2 to
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • mARch 4-7, 2017 D
Beating heart surgery 3 millimeters in diameter, about the size of a round toothpick or the lead in pencils. The vein grafts that are harvested from the leg are on the average about 4 to 5 mm in diameter. To connect vessels this small, we arrest the heart and use a magnifying loop as mentioned above for precise suturing. This is a delicate -- and an essential part -of the bypass surgery, and requires extreme attention to details, in order for the “pipe connection” to allow maximum blood flow, with the least resistance or impedance. Any buckling, purse-stringing, or twisting of the anastomosis will cause blood clots in the area of the T-joint which eventually blocks off, leading to failure of the surgery. This could spell a disaster, a heart attack. This particular “plumbing job” must be “perfect.” What suture materials are used? The sutures we use for the anastomoses have a diameter smaller than human hair. They are technically known as 6-0, 7-0, or, 8-0, which is the smallest of the three. They are propylene (plastic-like, but with greater tensile strength) sutures, commercially called Prolene, which are non-absorbable, unlike silk, which disintegrate with time. Prolene sutures stay intact forever. How are blockages diagnosed? The stenoses (narrowing) or occlusion (total blockage) of the coronary arteries are diagnosed with the aid of coronary angiogram (also referred to as cardiac catheterization), where a spaghetti-sized catheter is inserted into the femoral (groin) artery under local anesthesia and its tip directed to the opening of the left and right main coronary arteries. Dye is injected into the coronary arteries and the whole procedure is recorded in a video movie. This will show the dye in motion, the diameter and integrity of the lumen (inner channel) of the arteries and whether there are blockages or none. Why not do this test on everyone? While cardiac catheterization is a safe procedure done daily in various heart centers around the world, it has potential complications like transient irregular heart rhythm, blood clots, arterial leak, disruption in the wall of the artery, bleeding at the puncture site in the groin. While these are rare, there is a golden rule in medicine that says tests, in general, must only be done if there is a clinical indication
(justification). If a person has no symptoms or strong family history of heart disease, cardiac catheterization is not recommended. Just about the only exceptions could be an employer required executive check-up, or airline mandated test for commercial pilots. Besides, this is an expensive procedure and insurance companies do not consider this to be a reimbursable prophylactic test. How is OPCAB done? With the patient under general anesthesia, the chest is split in the middle, from the base of the neck down to about the tail of the sternum (breastbone), same as in the conventional technique. With OPCAB, the patient is not connected to a heart-lung machine. There is a special instrument (cardiac stabilizer) that minimizes the heart action in the area of the artery to be bypassed. The rest of the heart continues to beat. This stabilizer restricts the contraction of the heart in the target area, allowing the cardiac surgeon to do his suturing, aided by a surgical loop for magnified (3-4 times) view. With beating heart surgery, the patient does not feel so zapped, rundown and tired compared to the standard procedure where heart lung machine and cardiac arrest are used. Does every heart surgeon do OPCAB? No. Only those who had additional training on this particular technique perform beating heart surgery. It is a more tedious procedure and more difficult for the surgeon but much easier on the patient. Putting sutures on tiny arteries while the heart is beating is just like “shooting a tiny moving target.” A surgeon has to “retrain” his mind and hands, and gets used to this cutting edge-technology to be able to do OPCAB. This writer had to undergo such hands-on OPCAB surgical training at the Boston University Hospital in Massachusetts, under Dr. R. Cohn, the inventor of the Genzyme Cardiac Stabilizer. My team and I did our first OPCAB on a 68-year-old American from California, a retiree in Cebu, on June 8, 1999, the first quadruple OPCAB bypass performed in the Philippines, at the Cebu Doctors University Hospital. Even in the United States, only a little more than 60 percent of the surgeons perform OPCAB procedures. Is the conventional bypass obsolete? PAGE D5
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Receiving housing benefits? A trip to Social Security may not be necessary SOCIAl Security is constantly evolving to make your life easier. If you are currently receiving benefits from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and are reapplying for benefits, or are assisting someone with their application, a trip to the Social Security office is probably not necessary even if verification of Social Security benefits is needed. Because of a data exchange established between Social Security and HUD, most people do not need to contact Social Security for a benefit verification letter. HUD administrators processing a Recertification Application for Housing Assistance can use their Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) System to verify Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits. Public housing agencies, private owners, and management agents administering HUD rental assistance programs may get registration information about EIV by logging onto the following websites: go.usa.gov/x97mH or go.usa.gov/x97m6
If you are a new applicant for housing assistance, you can provide your HUD administrator with your Social Security award letter, Cost of living Adjustment (COlA) notice, SSA-1099, or other SSA benefit document you should have received at the beginning of the calendar year or when you began receiving benefits, whichever is later. We created these data exchange agreements to help you get the
support you need at the first point of contact, even if that’s not with Social Security. If you do need to provide proof of Social Security benefits yourself, we have another way to save you a trip to Social Security. You can get an instant benefit verification letter with a personal my Social Security account at www.socialsecurity.gov/ myaccount. (Eric Phillips/Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Sacramento, CA)
Fitch: More foreign banks beneficial to PH MANIlA - Fitch Ratings said the entry of more foreign banks into the country will help support the growing trade and investment needs of the Philippines. “We believe the entry of wellmanaged foreign banks expands the system’s capacity to fund growing trade and investment needs, and enables potential knowledge transfer in areas such as risk management, project finance and systems,” Fitch said in a report. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has given nine foreign banks the green light to establish their presence in the Philippines under Republic Act 10641 signed by former president Benigno Aquino III in July 2014. The central bank is also assess-
ing the applications of six more foreign banks. Fitch said the BSP has further eased the overall banking sector barriers to entry, subject to approval. The BSP is also looking at forging deals with the Bank of Thailand and Otoritas Jesa Keuangan of Indonesia in a bid to ease the entry of more foreign banks ahead of the integration of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2020. The BSP has forged an agreement with Bank Negara Malaysia in March 2016 to allow three qualified ASEAN banks from one country to set up branches in the other. The agreement came ahead of the 2020 rollout of the ASEAN
Banking Integration Framework. Notwithstanding the central bank’s supportive stance towards the consolidation of smaller banks, Fitch said further consolidation of smaller banks would reduce the BSP’s supervisory burden. Fitch has reaffirmed the issuer default ratings and outlook of BDO Unibank Inc., Bank of the Philippine Islands, Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co., China Banking Corp., Philippine National Bank and Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. It added the asset quality of Philippine banks has improved considerably over the last few years, owing to the supportive economic environment and the banks’ ongoing efforts to manage and resolve their problem loans. (Philstar.com)
Beating heart surgery PAGE D3 Most definitely not. There are still a large number of patients who could be better served with the conventional on-pump heart bypass. As I stated earlier, OPCAB is not for everyone. But the trend shows more and more coronary bypass procedures are being done
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on beating hearts today. It stands to reason that OPCAB is here to stay. Visit philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com. *** 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. Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com
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