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T h e F i l i p i n o –A m e r i c A n c o m m u n i T y n e w s pA p e r
Volume 26 - No. 41 • 4 Sections – 32 Pages
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PH growth highest in Asia
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New US ambassador Economy expands to PH nominated 6.9% in first quarter PresIDeNt Barack obama has nominated an Asian American as the new ambassador to the Philippines, the White house announced on Wednesday, may 18. the announcement came a day after obama spoke to presumptive Philippine President rodrigo Duterte over the phone. obama reportedly applauded Sung Y. Kim, nominee for the country’s “vibrant U S A m b a ssa d o r to t h e democracy.” Philippines the nominee, Photo courtesy of the sung Y. Kim, is a caUS State Department reer member of the foreign service, who has served as the special representative for North Korea Policy and deputy assistant secretary in the Bureau of east Asia and Pacific Affairs at the Depart-
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Campaign seeks to get AAPIs to vote in June 7 primary As California’s June 7 primary approaches, 20 organizations plan on calling 20,000 Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) registered voters in Los Angeles and orange Counties in a campaign called “Your Vote matters.” “Primaries have lower turnout than general elections in November, which amplifies the power of those who do cast a vote this June,” said stewart Kwoh, president and executive director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice-LA, which is part of the campaign. “While we are non-partisan, the ‘Your Vote matters’ coalition believes that by working together, we can increase Asian American and Pacific Islander electoral participation and demonstrate our community’s potential as the ‘margin of victory’ on election day.” the campaign comes as Asian Americans are predicted to compromise approximately 11 percent of California voters in the 2016 presidential election. however, many AAPI
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by Ben
o. de VerA Inquirer.net
the Philippines is a star in a weak global economy: its economy grew 6.9 percent in the first quarter, making it one of Asia’s best performers, even outpacing China for the first time in 27 years. In the same period last year, the economy expanded 5.2 percent. the growth, however, did not help the Aquino administration in the may 9 elections, as its presidential candidate lost by a wide margin, an indication that growth was not trickling down to the poor, among other reasons. the Philippines outpaced the growth posted by major Asian economies, such as China’s 6.7 percent, Vietnam’s 5.5 percent, Indonesia’s 4.9 percent and malaysia’s 4.2 percent, according to the National economic and Development Authority (Neda). sustained robust domestic demand coupled with ramped up government spending for public goods and services ahead of the elections pushed economic
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Obama congratulates Duterte US reaffirms alliance with incoming PH president by Agnes
ConstAnte
AJPress
Us President Barack obama on tuesday, may 17, personally called presumptive Philippine President rodrigo Duterte to congratulate him on his victory. “President obama noted that the successful election and record voter participation were emblematic of the Philippines’ vibrant democracy,” the White house said in a statement released tuesday, may 17. however, the Us president also emphasized the importance of protecting human rights in his conversation with Duterte, who vowed WHEN OBAMA CALLS, YOU ANSWER. On Tuesday, May 17, Pres. Barack Obama called President- during his campaign trail to execute 100,000 elect Rodrigo Duterte to congratulate him for winning the Philippine presidential race. The two criminals and dump them into manila Bay. “the two leaders affirmed their interest in reaffirmed the two countries’ strong alliance. White House photo by Pete Souza, Philstar.com photo by Miguel de Guzman
PH population hits 100.98 M by CzerizA
VAlenCiA Philstar.com
mANILA — the country’s population increased further to 100.98 million in 2015, higher by 8.64 million than in 2010 when the national census was last conducted, the Philippine statistics Authority (PsA) reported on friday, may 20. Based on the Census of Population (PoPCeN) concluded in August last year, the country’s population rose at a rate of 1.72 percent from 2010 to 2015. out of the country’s 18 administrative regions, region IV-A, comprising the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, rizal and Quezon, had the
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Duterte urged to reconsider appointment of Ampatuan lawyer by JAnViC
MAteo Philstar.com
mANILA — relatives of the victims of the maguindanao massacre urged incoming president rodrigo Duterte to reconsider the appoint-
VP BATTLE RAGES ON
Marcos camp files criminal complaint vs Smartmatic VICe presidential candidate ferdinand marcos Jr. (BBm)’s camp on friday, may 20 filed a criminal complaint against smartmatic for the technology provider’s unauthorized change in the script for the transparency server of the Commission on elections (Comelec) during the counting of the may 9 votes. the move came after lawyer Jose Amor Amorado, head of the BBm Quick Count Center, on friday said they will request the poll body for additional access to other components of the Automated election system (Aes) in addition to a system audit of the transparency server and central server of the Comelec.
IMPROVEMENT. The Philippine economy grew by 6.9 percent in the first quarter of the year. For the first time in 27 years, the Philippines outpaced China’s economic growth. Pictured is the business district in Makati City. Inquirer.net photo
In filing the criminal case before the poll body, rep. Jonathan dela Cruz, marcos’ campaign adviser, said they are holding smartmatic executive marlon accountable for alleged violation of the Automated election system (Aes) Law, particularly section 28 of republic Act 9369, which prohibits acts that include “interfering with, impeding, absconding for purpose of gain, preventing the installation or use of computer counting devices and the processing, storage, generation and transmission of election results, data or information.” Garcia was tagged as the one who introduced the script change
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ment of presidential spokesman salvador Panelo, one of the lawyers of the Ampatuans. But according to Panelo, the concerns are unfounded as he will not have any connection with the case against the Ampatuans once he
serves in the next administration. “my job will be to expound the policies of the Duterte administration,” he told the star on friday, may 20. “I cannot even make a comment on the case because it is
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Based on the Census of Population (POPCEN) concluded in August last year, the country’s population rose at a rate of 1.72 percent from 2010 to 2015. Philstar file photo
A MAY 21-24, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
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From the Front Page
PH growth highest in… PAGE A1 t
growth to its fastest pace in over a year. Services grew 7.9 percent and industry recorded its highest growth in five consecutive quarters at 8.7 percent. Investments also boosted the economy, with fixed capital posting 25.5 percent growth.
Agriculture contracts The growth came despite a relatively weak exports and a farm sector ravaged by the worst El Niño in 28 years. Agriculture contracted 4.4 percent, the fourth consecutive quarter of decline. With election spending expected to boost second-quarter growth to over 7 percent, So-
cioeconomic Planning Secretary Emmanuel F. Esguerra on Thursday said the economy was “on track” to reach at least the lower end of this year’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth target of 6.8 to 7.8 percent. It puts the economic expansion during outgoing President Aquino’s six-year term at 6.2 percent, the highest since 1978. “We are pleased to be turning over a strong and stable economy to the next administration,” he said at a news conference, referring to presumptive PresiALLIANCE. The Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC), the country’s second biggest political party, on Friday signed a support agreement dent-elect Rodrigo Duterte, who to become the coalition partner of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban), the party of presumptive Presidenttakes office on June 30. elect Rodrigo Duterte. Leaders of both parties signed the agreement in a meeting at Makati Diamond Residences. In his speech, NPC Philippine Statistics Authority president Isabela Rep. Giorgidi Aggabao said the party was committing to support Duterte’s legislative agenda. Duterte’s legislative data showed that the first-quaragenda includes the reinstatement of the death penalty and the amendment of the 1987 Constitution to change the country’s system of government to federal. Inquirer.net photo ter growth figure matched the 6.9 percent posted in the fourth quarter of 2014. tion of these regions accounted Impact of poll spending for 38.1 percent of the total last Neda has yet to determine year. the actual impact of poll-related PAGE A1 t tional Capital Region (NCR) or Out of the country’s 81 provspending on the first-quarter biggest population of 14.41 mil- Metro Manila with 12.88 million inces, Cavite was the most popueconomic output, but Esguerra lion in 2015. and Central Luzon with 11.22 lous with 3.68 million, followed This was followed by the Na- million. The combined popula- by Bulacan (3.29 million) and u PAGE A4 Laguna (3.04 million). Twenty-seven other provinces surpassed the one- million population mark. These are Cavite, Bulacan, Laguna, Pangasinan, Cebu, Rizal, Batangas, Negros Occidental, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Camarines Sur, Iloilo, Quezon, Leyte, Isabela, Bukidnon, North Cotabato, Tarlac, Negros Oriental, Albay, Bohol, Cagayan, Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur. Batanes had the smallest population with 17,246 persons. Two other provinces posted a population size of less than 100,000. These are Siquijor with 95,984 and Camiguin with 88,478. Although currently not the most populous region, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) had the fastest population growth rate of 2.89 percent during the census period. Out of the country’s 33 highly urbanized cities, four had surpassed the one-million population mark, namely, Quezon City with 2.94 million, Manila (1.78 million), Davao City (1.63 million) and Caloocan City (1.58 million). The POPCEN 2015 was undertaken by the PSA in August 2015 under Republic Act No.
PH population hits…
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From the Front page
APPEAL. Atty. Jose Amor Amorado and Rep. Jonathan Dela Cruz show copies of the formal letter from the vice presidential candidate Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. at the Comelec office on Wednesday, May 18. Marcos asked the Comelec to let his team of IT experts to conduct an audit of the transparency server and central server used for the May 9 elections. Inquirer.net photo by Lyn Rillon
Marcos camp files criminal complaint… PAGE A1 t
into the transparency server in violation of Comelec protocols. “We don’t want him [Smartmatic executive] to get away with it,” dela Cruz said, noting that Garcia was charged earlier for a similar offense in connection with the 2013 elections. Amorado said they will seek access to the transmission logs, list of VCMs (Vote Counting Machines), USB devices and BGANs (Broadband Global Area Networks) used in the recently concluded elections, as well as the public key and decryption key to open up the transmission files. “This will enable us to explain, and we would be able to see, how many were the ‘undervotes,’ which are critical to the count of the votes for the vice presidential position,” he added. As of Thursday, Amorado said, their own count revealed “undervotes” of about 3.5 million for the vice presidential position, which is unusual, he added, because this position was hotly contested in the polls. Amorado and dela Cruz decried the cancelation of a scheduled hearing on Thursday by the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on the Automated Election System because of the absence of Smartmatic officials.
“The other thing that I think has not yet been properly advised, and which we had wanted to bring to the attention of the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee, was the fact that at 10:00 p.m. on the same day, May 9, there was a non-transmission of votes from all over the country,” dela Cruz said. According to him, the stoppage was suspicious because the transmission of election results from various parts of the country stopped simultaneously for about
10 minutes when there were no reported brownouts or other incidents that could explain the glitch. This glitch, dela Cruz noted, took place after the 7:30 p.m. unauthorized change of the script in the transparency server. He and Amorado said they will also look into the arrival of new Certificates of Canvass from the provinces of Ilocos Norte, Megros Occidental and Nueva Ecija, copies of which they have received. (ManilaTimes.net)
Criminal complaint Lawyer Jose Amor Amorado, head of the BBM Quick Count Center, files a complaint against Smartmatic executives for their breach of the transparency server of the Comelec. Photo by Rene H. Dilan
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 21-24, 2016
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From the Front page
A MAY 21-24, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
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PH growth highest in… PAGE A2 t said previous elections showed a 0.3 to 0.4-percentage point contribution to the GDP during the election season. Other economic managers welcomed the news of the strong economic expansion. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Gov. Amando M. Tetangco Jr. said the first-quarter GDP growth confirmed that policy settings were appropriate right now. “We will, however, continue to be mindful, among others, of weather-related developments. While El Niño seems to be winding down, it could still have residual effects on the crop cycle. In addition, we may see the onset of La Niña by midyear,” Tetangco said in a text message to reporters. Budget Secretary Florencio B. Abad said he remained optimistic that the economy will continue to expand this year. “The country has made unprecedented growth in the past five years and we primarily owe this to the principles of good governance—upholding transparency, accountability and openness,
especially in the management of public funds,” he said. Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima, for his part, said the next administration would inherit a rapidly growing, vibrant Philippines cushioned by robust foundations built over six years. Much better place Purisima said the Aquino administration was leaving the Philippines in a much better place than when it first found it. “No longer the sick man of Asia, the Philippines emerges more confident and more optimistic than ever, demanding to be governed by even higher standards of governance than before,” he said. Esguerra said that while strong economic growth and investment inflows could be sustained despite a change in administration by midyear, reforms should be sustained and plans fleshed out. “What will happen in the second half will depend on how investors will react to the policies that the incoming administration will be putting in place,” said Esguerra, who is also director general of Neda.
Eight-point agenda The Neda chief welcomed the Duterte administration’s eightpoint economic agenda, under which the incoming leadership plans to accelerate infrastructure spending, address land administration and management, attract more foreign direct investment flows, expand and improve the conditional cash transfer program, shore up government revenue collection, make tax administration more progressive, modernize the agriculture sector, as well as strengthen the basic education system. “It’s comforting that based on what have been said so far, the business sector largely accepted the agenda. But it’s still in very general terms,” Esguerra said. Neda, as part of the transition committee to ensure smooth transfer of power from the Aquino to the Duterte administrations, will turn over to the incoming leadership policy recommendations, including pending “important” legislation that should be passed to ensure that the gains made thus far in terms
Inquirer.net photo by Marc Jayson Cayabyab
Obama congratulates…
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seeing the relationship continue to grow on the basis of these shared principles,” the White House statement said. Duterte received the call in the middle of an interview with GMA News and said Obama was the u PAGE A5 first head of state to call him. “I am quite honored,” he told GMA News of the US president’s call. On early Wednesday morning, May 18, Duterte said he also told Obama he is open to having bilateral talks with China about the disputed West Philippine Sea should current efforts to resolve
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ELECTION COMPLAINT. Father Robert Reyes on Wednesday, May 18 leads the Mata sa Balota Movement in filing an electoral sabotage complaint against Smartmatic’s Marlon Garcia over the change in script of the transparency server after the May 9 polls.
the issue fail, according to GMA News. “[I] assured [Obama] that we will continue with our mutual interests and that we are allied with the Western [World] in this issue on China Sea. But I gave him that, well, I would agree to just go with you,” Duterte told reporters, according to GMA News. Duterte has received criticism from human rights groups who accuse him of running a vigilante death squad in Davao. Last year, New York-based non-profit human rights organization Human Rights Watch estimated that more than 1,000 people have
died under Duterte’s leadership since the 1990s. He has also said he would re-instate the death penalty and kill suspected criminals. “If I make it to the presidential palace, I will do just what I did as mayor. You drug pushers, hold-up men and do-nothings, you better go out. Because as the mayor, I’d kill you,” Duterte previously said. The new president has also stirred controversy with certain previous statements, including what appeared to be a joke he made about the 1989 rape and
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PH population… PAGE A2 t
10625 (Philippine Statistical Act of 2013) and Executive Order No. 352. The PSA census came following a report of the United Nations saying the urban population of developing countries is projected to double by 2030. While cities have emerged over the past 20 years as the world’s economic platforms for production and innovation, helping millions escape poverty through better jobs and improved quality of life, the inaugural edition of the World Cities Report, compiled by the UN Human Settlements Program (UN-HABITAT), said mass urbanization has also led to overcrowding, deepened inequalities and triggered a raft of environmental and health challenges. (With Pia Lee-Brago)
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Dateline USa
LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 21-24, 2016
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New US ambassador to PH…
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ment of State since 2014. He was the US Ambassador to the Republic of Korea from 2011 to 2014, special envoy for the Six Party Talks with the rank of Ambassador from 2008 to 2011, and director of the Office of Korean Affairs in the Bureau of East Asia and Pacific Affairs from 2006 to 2008. He has been a part of the foreign service since 1988, holding positions in Hong Kong, Japan and Malaysia. Prior to that, he was the Deputy District Attorney in the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. Born in Seoul, South Korea,
Kim grew up in Los Angeles. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania, juris doctor from Loyola Law School and master of laws degree from the London School of Economics. In addition to Kim, Obama nominated the following individuals to key administration posts: Ysaÿe M. Barnwell, member of National Council on the Arts; Daniel Becker, member of the Board of Directors of the State Justice Institute; Rena Bitter, ambassador to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic; Anne S. Casper, ambassador to the Re-
public of Burundi; Geoffrey R. Pyatt, Ambassador to Greece; Douglas Silliman, Ambassador to the Republic of Iraq; and Marie L. Yovanovitch, ambassador to Ukraine. “I am pleased to announce that these experienced and committed individuals have decided to serve our country. I look forward to working with them,” Obama said in a statement issued by the White House. If confirmed by the US Senate, Kim will replace current Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg, who has been assigned to the country since 2013. (AJPress)
Campaign seeks to get AAPIs to vote in… INCOMING POLICE CHIEF. THE incoming chief of the Philippine National Police will not allow unscrupulous policemen receiving protection money from drug lords to get away from the new administration’s no nonsense drive to make the country safe from criminals within six months. Handpicked by presumptive President-elect Rodrigo Duterte, Chief Supt. Ronald dela Rosa, who uses the nickname “Bato” for his tough image, fearlessly warned policemen, including the top-level police officials, to end their ties with drug syndicates or else they will be booted out of the PNP. Inquirer.net photo by Julliane Love De Jesus
Duterte urged to reconsider appointment of…
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already in the courts.” Speaking on behalf of the families of the media victims, Mary Grace Morales, whose husband Rosell died in the Nov. 23, 2009 massacre, expressed disappointment over the selection of Panelo as Duterte’s spokesman. “We know where the case is headed,” she said. “If he is really appointed, I will no longer hope for progress in this case.” Lawyer Romel Bagares, executive director of the Center for International Law that represents some of the media workers killed in the massacre, also urged Duterte to reconsider his decision appointing Panelo. “The choice is uninspired, to say the least. But it is clear he does not really understand the gravity of what happened on Nov. 23, 2009 on a hill in Sitio Masalay, Ampatuan, Maguindanao,” Bagares said. “Sadly, it is a choice that does not attack impunity decisively but rather, perpetuates it. It is not too late for the presumptive president to change his mind and show to nearly 16 million Filipinos who voted for him that he listens to their cry for genuine change in the way we do government and governance in this country,” he added. Bagares said the appointment of Panelo to the Cabinet does
not bring the promise of change for the relatives of victims of the massacre. “We understand certain debts owed during the election season need to be paid, but for a candidate who won overwhelmingly on a promise that change is coming, this is not the refreshing wind of change our clients sorely need now,” he said. Some 58 people, including 32 from media, were killed in the incident. Some 95 suspects were charged. The victims – led by the wife of then Buluan vice mayor Esmael Mangudadatu – were en route to Shariff Aguak to file his certificate of candidacy when they were stopped and brutally murdered by more than a hundred men. The attack was allegedly committed by the ruling Ampatuan clan, who was being challenged by Mangudadatu in the gubernatorial race. The Ampatuans denied involvement in the massacre. Radio stations in Central Mindanao have been reporting since early this week Duterte’s plan to appoint Panelo as presidential spokesman. Relatives of the victims of the massacre, the country’s worst election-related violent incident, urged reporters in Central Mindanao to help them dramatize their opposition to Duterte’s ap-
PH growth highest in… PAGE A4 t
of economic reform could not be reversed. Part of the legislative agenda are reforms to further reduce the cost of doing business, bills aimed at closing the infrastructure gap, enforcement of the recently enacted competition law, rationalization of investors’ fiscal perks alongside comprehensive tax reform, and removal of the quantitative restoration or quota on rice imports. Risks Moving forward, Esguerra noted risks to economic growth for the rest of the year. “In particular, the agriculture and fishery sectors will continue to reel from the lingering impact of El Niño though the transition
to a normal weather condition is already happening. We should also start preparing for the La Niña, which now has a 75-percent probability of occurrence,” said the Neda chief. Agriculture employs 27 percent of the Philippine labor force. Farmers also comprise a large chunk of the 26 percent of Filipinos who live on $1.30 a day or less. Esguerra called for added state spending to diversify crops, boost community defenses against disasters that also include typhoons and floods, and social protection, including crop insurance. He said strong domestic demand would push growth in the near term, offsetting the weak global environment. n
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murder of an Australian missionary in Davao City. In a YouTube video that surfaced in April, Duterte said that as mayor, he should have been first in line. Later on, he said he had used “gutter language” but did not apologize. US Deputy National Security Adviser Ben Rhodes acknowledged the controversy of some of Duterte’s previous statements, but said the United States wants to build on the “good progress” achieved between the two countries under the administration of President Benigno Aquino III. “For us, the priorities will re-
main the security and prosperity of the Philippines. We’ll want to see continued efforts in the Philippines in respect of rule of law and to combat corruption, just as we support those types of efforts across Asia and around the world,” Rhodes told the Center for a New American Security think tank, according to Philstar. Duterte won the presidency in the Philippine elections on May 9 in a record-setting 81.62 percent voter turnout, which US Department of State Elizabeth Trudeau said is a testament to the Philippines’ democracy. He is scheduled to be sworn into office on June 30. n
pointment of Panelo. Mayhang Reblando-Zainal, daughter of Manila Bulletin reporter Alejandro Reblando who was killed in the massacre, said allowing Panelo to become spokesman would have farreaching implications on their search for justice. “It’s like adding insult to injury. Imagine? A lawyer of the people we are prosecuting would work in Malacañang! That’s not fair,” she said. (With Robertzon Ramirez, Edith Regalado, Artemio Dumlao and John Unson)
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voters still face barriers at the ballot. “Many first-generation voters don’t speak English and lack access to information about the candidates, the voting process ... and because they haven’t received personal contact from campaigns, they may be less aware of the critical link between how they vote and how their lives are impacted on a day-to-day basis,” said Kelly Osajima, voter engagement manager at Advancing Justice-LA. Among information AAPI voters may not be aware of include the difference between primary and general elections, and knowing the rules of the party of the candidate one wishes to vote for. The American Independent, Democratic and Libertarian par-
ties, for instance, allow “crossover voting” by voters with no party preferences. However, the Green, Peace and Freedom, and Republican parties only allow voters registered with their respective party to vote for their candidates. Another aspect to consider, are potential problems that could arise for those opting to vote by mail. Deanna Kitamura, voting rights project director at Advancing Justice-LA, said Additionally, to vote on June 7, voters must be registered by Monday, May 23. “Your Vote Matters” will be carried out in 10 different languages, including Tagalog, and has more than 150 bilingual staff and volunteers from the participating organizations. “When we’re exercising our
right [to vote], we’re registering ourselves and being counted not only in that moment of the vote of which candidate or issues to be voted on, but we’re starting to register the strength and unity of our community so that when we also come back to these legislatures, when we speak out about policy, our voices are more powerful,” said Aquilina Soriano Versoza, executive director of the Pilipino Workers Center. The organization will be phone banking and going out into the community – particularly Filipino grocery stores, churches and community festivals – to participate in the campaign. California is home to the largest AAPI population in the United States. From 2002 to 2012, the number of registered Asian
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As US elections near, more immigrants apply for citizenship HOUSTON, Texas—For more than a decade, Jannette Diep has been helping immigrants apply for US citizenship, and as the presidential election looms, Diep, the executive director of Boat People SOS, says she has seen a rising interest among immigrants in becoming US citizens. More immigrants are going to community centers like hers to find out how to become naturalized, she said. The number of people applying for US citizenship shows an uptick during presidential election years, according to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). “They come to our office or call us,” says Diep. “They’re very eager to get their citizenship.” The good news, she said, is that applying for citizenship is easier than people think. Boat People SOS and other organizations across Houston are providing free and low-cost services to help Houstonians take the step to become US citizens. The effort is part of the New Americans Campaign, a national, nonpartisan campaign now in its fifth year that helps legal permanent residents take the step to become citizens. Free workshops The organizations host free workshops where legal permanent residents can get help with their applications. They help eligible immigrants access fee and language waivers. They also offer English language and civics classes. Mariana Sanchez, chief operating officer of Bonding Against Adversity, said that between January and April, her organization alone has helped more than 1,000 immigrants file their citizenship applications. “We’re hoping that more and more will apply,” she said. There are about 8.8 million immigrants in the United States eligible for naturalization, and about 350,000 live in the Houston area, according to Benito Juarez, manager for immigrant and refugee issues at the Houston Mayor’s
Advancing Justice photo
Office of International Communities and Refugee Affairs. “If they’d be able to vote, then they’d become part of the life of the city,” Juarez said at an ethnic media briefing in Houston. “They’d become more active [in civic engagement].” The naturalization process, from the time an applicant sends in the application to an interview with an immigration officer and taking part in the actual swearing-in ceremony, can take five to six months. That means that many immigrants are applying to become US citizens now, in the hope that they will be able to register to vote in time for November. Ability to vote Some newly naturalized citizens say being able to exercise their right to vote is the main factor that prompted them to apply for citizenship. “Now that I can vote, this gives me a sense of ownership to be part of this country,” said Ming Shen, an immigrant from Taiwan who became a US citizen earlier this year. “I’m very glad that my voice can be heard in this country.” But the benefits of becoming a US citizen extend far beyond November. US citizens can petition family members, travel freely outside the United States, have immunity from deportation, and
get a job with the federal government. Tien Nguyen, a recently naturalized US citizen from Vietnam, said that becoming a US citizen allows him to travel without worrying whether he will be let back into the country. “I can now travel freely as an American,” said Nguyen. Increase in income Research has shown that becoming a US citizen is also associated with an increase in income. Since he became a US citizen this year, Mateo Amador Perez says he got a better-paying job and the quality of life of his family has improved. “I decided to naturalize because I knew it will bring more opportunities for me and my family,” said Amador Perez, who is originally from Mexico. “I wanted them to have the best future that I could give.” Texas State Representative Gene Wu, who spoke at the press briefing, echoed the sentiments of the newly naturalized citizens. Forty percent of the people in his district are foreign-born, he said. “My family, myself—we are all immigrants ourselves,” Wu said. “Being an American citizen is something that I have been very proud of.” For more information about the New Americans Campaign and upcoming citizenship workshops, go to www.newamericanscampaign.org. (Anthony Advincula/New America Media)
INCOMING ADMINISTRATION. Pedestrians walk past a Philippine flag tarpaulin bearing the image of incoming president Rodrigo Duterte along a main road in Davao City on Wednesday, May 18. Philstar.com photo by Miguel de Guzman
2 suspects arrested in killing of Fil-Am in San Jose, Calif. SAN FRANCISCO—San Jose police arrested two men in the October killing of a 34-year-old Filipino American real estate agent and San Francisco resident, who was gunned down on a San Jose street after leaving a bar where he celebrated his first real estate listing. The suspects, Nathan Nai Fong Saechao, 19, of Oakland and Manh Do Van Tran, 29, of Hayward, were arrested on suspicion of killing Michael Arcega, 34, according to a San Jose police spokesman Monday, May 16. Saechao was arrested in Oakland on Thursday and Tran was taken into custody on Sunday in San Jose. Both were booked into Santa Clara County Jail on suspicion of murder. San Jose police officers on October 24 found Michael Arcega dead by at least one gunshot wound outside the Lu Beer Club and Restaurant on the 1500 block of Monterey Road in San Jose. A motive for the slaying was not revealed. Arcega, who grew up in Hawaii, was a real estate agent at Keller Williams in San Carlos. (Inquirer.net)
Fil-Am Michael Arcega was found shot to death last October outside a nightclub in San Jose, California.
Police arrested Nathan Nai Fong Saechao and Manh Do Van Tran as suspects in Michael Arcega’s death.
Fil-Am pleads not guilty to 2015 murder of Zambales woman by AllAn
MAcAtuno Inquirer.net
IBA, Zambales — FilipinoAmerican Jonathan Dewayne Viane pleaded not guilty to killing a 23-year-old woman whose burnt remains were found in a river dike in San Felipe town last year. Viane was arraigned on Thursday, May 19 at the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 71 here on murder charges filed by relatives of Karie Ces “Aika” Mojica. Mojica, a resident of Barangay (village) Sta. Rita in Olongapo Jonathan Dewayne Viane.
Allan Macatuno/Inquirer Central Luzon
6/7/16
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Fil-Am pleads not guilty to 2015 murder of Zambales… PAGE A6 t
City and a store supervisor, was found dead at a portion of the Sto. Tomas River dike in San Felipe town on July 25 last year. RTC Branch 71 Judge Consuelo Amog-Bocar ordered Viane detained at the provincial jail after denying a petition filed by his lawyers to place the American under the custody of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). Viane, a 29-year-old American prison guard, was extradited to the Philippines on May 1.
The Republican National Committee (RNC) hosted a summit on Friday, May 20 in Washington D.C. in celebration of Asian Pacific American (APA) Heritage Month with elected officials from across the country. Pictured from left to right are San Diego, California Councilman Chris Cate, RNC APA Press Secretary Ninio Fetalvo, and Brunswick, Ohio Mayor Ron Falconi.
Campaign seeks to get…
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American voters jumped 60 percent. In the 2012 presidential election, 1.7 million Asian Americans were registered to vote. Other organizations participating in the “Your Vote Matters” campaign, which is in its 10th year of mobilizing AAPIs to participate in elections, include: API Equality-LA, Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, Asian Pacific Health Care Venture, Asian Youth Center, Center for Asian Americans United for Self Empowerment, Empowering Pacific Islander Communities,
Filipino Migrant Center, Khmer Girls in Action, Korean American Coalition, Korean Resource Center, Koreatown Immigrant Workers Alliance, KW Lee Center for Leadership, Little Tokyo Service Center, Organization of Chinese Americans – Greater Los Angeles, Orange County Asian Pacific Islander Community Alliance, ROC-LA, South Asian Network and Thai Community Development Center. “2016 is such a critical election year...We want our community to know that yes, your vote matters!” said Versoza. (Agnes Constante / AJPress)
He flew back to the United States on July 26 last year shortly after policemen launched a manhunt for him and another suspect, Niño de la Cruz. US marshals arrested Viane on Sept. 3, 2015 in Iowa, while members of the police’s Special Action Force in Metro Manila arrested De la Cruz on Aug. 12. Agents of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation turned Viane over to the NBI at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Josar Mojica, the slain woman’s
father, said, “I still have mixed emotions seeing him (Viane) in person. I wanted to ask him why he killed my daughter.” Josar said his daughter was killed after being dragged into Viane’s marital problem. Mojica and the suspect’s wife, who is based in the US, were friends, he said. Josar said Viane left his wife in the US and took their son to the Philippines in April last year to escape a custody battle. The judge also ordered the provincial warden to explain within
24 hours why the other suspect, De La Cruz, was allowed to keep and operate gadgets, such as computers and mobile phones, inside his cell. Lawyer Josefina Bueno, counsel of the Mojica family, manifested in court that De la Cruz had been posting photographs on social networking site Facebook from inside jail. Bueno presented print outs of the photos showing the suspect and other detainees, one of whom had a mobile telephone. n
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OpiniOn
Features
Beyond economic growth
ONE indisputable achievement of the Aquino administration is the sustained economic growth in the past six years, with the Philippine economy registering the second fastest growth in the region after China. In the first quarter of this year, the Philippines outpaced even China, with GDP growing by a hefty 6.9 percent.
The incoming administration of Rodrigo Duterte has promised to sustain the growth and preserve the economic gains. President Aquino and his team have often said good governance makes good economics; the outgoing Chief Executive has expressed hope that the reforms under his watch would be preserved. Apart from preserving the reforms, the challenge for the incoming administration is to make the benefits of robust growth trickle down to the grassroots. Inclusive growth eluded the administration of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and has remained elusive even with the avowed straight path or daang matuwid pursued by the current team. The impressive macroeconomic performance must translate into benefits that are felt by the majority of Filipinos. Another challenge for the incoming administration is to translate the investment grade that the country attained under Aquino’s watch into significant levels of actual investments that will create decent employment. The Philippines continues to lag behind most of its neighbors in terms of activities that generate jobs and livelihood opportu-
Guest Editorial
nities, such as foreign direct investment and tourism. The next administration must do more to improve the climate for business
and travel. Additional measures are also needed to encourage entrepreneurship. Abominable red tape, lack of access to credit, poor infrastructure and weak government support for marketing and sourcing of materials have dampened the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises. Agriculture, on which most of the extremely poor Filipinos depend for their living, has been neglected for a long time, according to studies conducted by development and business groups. The Duterte administration, which is reaching out to left-leaning groups involved in agrarian reform and agriculture issues, is expected to be able to do more to uplift the plight of farmers. Duterte has promised to keep what’s good in the outgoing administration even as he implements his promised changes. He has acknowledged the economic achievements of the outgoing team. Now he must focus on making economic growth inclusive and sustainable. (Philstar.com)
Philstar.com photo
Parole program allows kids and grandkids of Filipino vets to come to the US sooner
TIME is of the essence for Filipino World War II veterans who are now living in the United States but are still counting years to finally have their children and grandchildren with approved petition to join him here and enjoy the remaining years of their life together as a family. With the Obama Administration parole program, the wait time for them may now be shorter, and it will benefit the nation that the children are able to come to America to take care of their veteran father (or mother). I interviewed Atty. Lou Tancinco, legal counsel for “Pinoy Panawagan” of The Filipino Channel’s daily newscast “Balitang America”. Here are her answers to commonly asked questions about this parole program:
Q: Is the Parole program for Filipino World War II veterans The Fil-Am the same as a U.S. visa? A: First, we have to under- Perspective stand that this is a parole, not a U.S. visa. It will have the same effect as the visa as it will allow the individual to enter into the United States. However, by Gel SantoS-ReloS its nature, the grant of this parole is discretionary on the part of the USCIS. It is granted only for significant public benefit. Here the case of the Filipino World War II veterans is considered a significant public benefit that is why a parole program is established.
Q: What if the family member with an approved petition has a criminal record? A: There must be NO criminal history on the part of the applicant for parole, otherwise he or she will NOT be eligible for the program. Q: What will happen to the children who no longer have surviving parents? A: The parole program permits the surviving spouse to apply for the parole on behalf of the veteran. And if both the veteran and surviving spouse die, the children may “self apply” after he gets the
revoked petition reinstated. Unfortunately, there is this requirement of reinstatement when both parents are deceased. Q: How long will they be permitted to stay on parole? A: They can stay on parole to wait for the priority date to be current. However, this program is NOT mandatory. This is voluntary on the part of the children of the veterans. *** 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
The best kind of friends: Violinist inspires poet and writer Asian political parties describe Philippine polls as ‘exemplar’ Rhizomes
“ALTHOUGH April in Paris is a time of budding trees and brilliant gardens, the sights to be seen in Paris are often not out and about in the streets but in the carefully lit rooms Prosy AbArquezof galleries, most es- DelAcruz, J.D. pecially in the Musee d’ Orsay which houses a brilliant collection of impressionist paintings. There we have a record of friendships celebrated and talents generously nurtured by wellchosen friends. Gaugin and Van Gogh, Picasso and Matisse—these artists brought out the best in each other and were wise enough to know it. Their work cross-pollinated each other’s.” — Julia Cameron, The Art of Perseverance, 2006 “All men are created equal”, incorporated by Thomas Jefferson into the Declaration of Independence, was paraphrased from the works of Italian-born patriot, Philip Mazzei, a close friend of Jefferson as described by John F. Kennedy in his book, “A Nation of Immigrants.” Mazzei’s original words were: “All men are born naturally free and independent.”
The history lesson, above, was imparted to me by Jamie Lazzara, an American-born violin maker, who was in Southern California in September 2012 and in March 2014. Jamie Marie Lazzarra is a master violin maker, whose violin shop, “Liutaio” has been visited by world-renowned violinists, including Itzhak Perlman, who played during President Barack Obama’s inauguration, on January 20, 2009. Perlman used a personally crafted violin made by Jaime in Florence, Italy. It was crafted in 1993, with all the details copied from the original Stradivarius of 1714. She has now crafted many “babies,“ a euphemism for her artisan-crafted violins while her visits to the US include visiting clients who play these personally crafted violins. It is an act of generosity that endears Jamie to her clients, and to take special attention to make sure her “babies” are doing well in the hands of their owners. Each one has a particular personality, a
Obama violin handcrafted by Jamie Lazzara
“voice” so to speak. Each one is delivered to its owner, including a ceremony that Jamie goes through, to ensure that each baby is an authentic creation from her shop, Liutaio, based in Florence, Italy. That ceremony is only known to the artist and her client, as each guitar is handcrafted and measured to fit the musician’s hands. I asked Jamie if I may write about these words, which she lovingly gilded into the handcrafted violin she made, a gift to President Barack Obama and family. “The sound of violin talks I will resound lightly In the heart who knows what the world is worth The first thing that things are done Aforethought is universal brotherhood If Philip Mazzei with a sincere heart He wrote that every man is born The same as the other To make this thought proclaimed in vain I say, Obama, be strong, go forward, ABANTE!” —Composed and shared with a group of friends by Giovanni Bartholleni Da Prato, March 17, 2014. The violin has been acknowledged received at the White House and a letter of acceptance reads: “My deep thanks for the beautiful violin. Music’s power to inspire us transcends languages and borders. And I appreciate your thoughtful gesture. Thank you again for your kind gift. I wish you the best.” —Barack Obama, Dec. 7, 2012. She refers to him as “my President!” She may be thousands of miles away, but she stays engaged in her birthplace. A native-born American, Jamie graduated from Cal State Long Beach and moved to Florence. She studied in Cremona, learning the art of making violins, and joins an elite group of master artisans (mostly men) who are called “luthiers.” For all her accomplishments, this native-born Californian, now
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THE International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), representing more than 340 ruling, opposition, and independent political parties on Friday, May 20 called the Philippine national elections “free, clean, and without violence and an exemplar for thirdworld countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.” The ICAPP bureau include its Founding Chairman, former Philippine Speaker Jose de Venecia; Co-Chairman and Secretary General Chung Eui-yong of South Korea; Vice Chairman, Deputy Prime Minister Sok An of Cambodia; and Special Rapporteur, Pakistan senior Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, representing the 23-man Standing Committee from Northeast Asia, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, West Former Philippine Speaker Jose de Venecia Asia including the Arab world, Aus- and revival of the global Inter-Faith tralia, New Zealand and the small Dialogues at the U.N. to reduce the Pacific island states. bitter Sunni-Shiite Muslim conflicts The Asian political leaders en- and the unspeakable violence of dorsed President-elect Rodrigo radical ISIS extremism in the MidDuterte’s initiative to put an end to dle East, South Asia, and Africa. Asia’s longest-running communist ICAPP reported that it just held insurgency, set a prolonged cease- Asia-Latin America-Africa inter-parfire and include Cabinet-level com- ties conference in Jakarta last April munist representatives in the new 22-24, to inaugurate the first tricongovernment and his call for feder- tinental meeting of political parties alism as an instrument to end the (ICAPP, the Council of African PoMuslim insurgencies, develop Min- litical Parties (CAPP), and COPPPdanao and the regions, and decen- AL, composed of Latin American tralize the national government. and Caribbean political parties) to They said they will ask the lead- revive the historic Bandung Spirit ership of governments in Southeast of the 1950s and intensify post-coAsia to support the setting up of joint lonial economic mobilization to denaval patrols by the Philippines, feat pervasive poverty. Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei The tricontinental leaders said navies against piracies and radical they will contribute efforts to mobigroups in the Malacca Straits, Sulu lize political parties, governments, Sea, and Southeast Asian waters. parliaments, and the private sector The ICAPP bureau also called in the continuing campaign against for initiatives for negotiated bilat- poverty, since one percent of the eral or multilateral political settle- world or some 80 persons are said ments in the South China Sea, East to own more than 50 percent perChina Sea, revival of the six-nation cent of the world’s wealth, intenKorean talks, a formula for the long- sify the global effort against climate neglected Muslim-Rohingya refu- change and environmental degragees in Myanmar, new solutions to dation, and the unceasing violent the bloody Iraq-Syria-Libya crises, politico-religious extremism. n
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Dateline PhiliPPines
JOB WELL DONE. Comelec Chair Andres Bautista smiles as lawyer Romeo Macalintal congratulates and acknowledges the poll body’s efforts in conducting the elections as the National Board of Canvassers completes the counting of votes on Wednesday, May 18. Inquirer.net photo by Grig Montegrande
DOJ drops Davao death squad probe MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) has dropped its investigation on the alleged unexplained killings of the Davao death squad (DDS) and its links to presumptive president Rodrigo Duterte. According to a report from The STAR, the witness is no longer under government custody. Earlier this month, the DOJ confirmed that it is conducting an investigation on the Dutertelinked DDS. Former Justice Secretary and senator-elect Leila de Lima earlier condemned Duterte for summary executions and the death squad. De Lima, however, did not confirm if she will call for a Senate probe on the DDS and its links to Duterte.
The Department of Justice is no longer looking into the Davao death squad and its links to presumptive President-elect Rodrigo Duterte. File photo
Last year, international group his endorsement of killing crimiHuman Rights Watch called for nal suspects as a crime-fighting an investigation on Duterte and strategy. (Patricia Lourdes Viray)
The best kind of friends: Violinist inspires… PAGE A8 t
a craftsman/artist, lives life engaged in making violins, playing folk music with friends, and creating other works of art. It is fascinating to see her appreciate every piece of painting, sculpture at Getty Villa and soak in its historical significance in the history of Rome and the world. Art through Jamie’s eyes and Giovanni’s poetry is a day of immersing in our collective humanities, making pieces of art that sing and dance, but mostly vocal about peace in our hearts! ***
Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D. writes a weekly column for Asian Journal, called “Rhizomes.” She has been writing for AJ Press for 9 years now. She contributes to Balikbayan Magazine. Her training and experiences are in science, food technology, law and community volunteerism for 4 decades. She holds a B.S. degree from the University of the Philippines, a law degree from Whittier College School of Law in California and a certificate on 21st Century Leadership from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. She has been a participant in NVM Writing Workshops taught by Prof. Peter Bacho for 4 years and Prof. Russell Leong. She has travelled to France, Holland, Belgium, Japan, Mexico and 22 national parks in the US, in pursuit of her love for arts.
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Binay faces indictment after term ends on June 30 by Michael
Punongbayan Philstar.com
MANILA — Vice President Jejomar Binay, who lost in his bid to become the country’s next president, will be criminally indicted before the Sandiganbayan as soon as his immunity from suit expires on June 30. Ombudsman Conchita CarpioMorales on Friday, May 20, said the anti-graft agency has found probable cause to charge him with graft, falsification of public documents and malversation of public funds stemming from his alleged role in the overpriced construction of the Makati City Hall Building II. “The resolution that we issued is very clear. When he’s stripped of immunity, then we will consider filing the case,” she told reporters at a press briefing. Morales, however, refused to give a specific date as to when the cases will be lodged, noting that “July 1 comes after June 30 in the same manner that July 10 comes after June 30.” The Office of the Ombudsman filed similar criminal charges against Binay’s son, dismissed
Makati City mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay, and 22 other individuals last February. But because the elder Binay is an impeachable official, the antigraft agency deferred the filing of charges against him. Ombudsman investigators said both father and son were involved in irregularities, including bidding and procurement law violations, during the construction of the parking building worth P2.2 billion. On incoming president Rodrigo Duterte’s reported statement that he will not prosecute Binay or even President Aquino for alleged offenses committed during the latter’s term, Morales said the president is not a prosecutor anyway. “He’s not the prosecutor so tama yan (that’s right),” she said, adding that such statement does not mean lack of support from the incoming administration insofar as fighting graft and corruption is concerned. “It does not mean that way. He is saying that he is not going to initiate charges against them. To begin with, hindi naman siya (he is not the) prosecutor. It is the
Office of the Ombudsman which initiates charges or, if it does not motu propio file charges, it receives complaints and it gives due course to complaints if warranted,” she said. Morales said the investigations on the other plunder and graft cases filed against Binay will continue but the expiration of his term of office will not necessarily speed up the probes. She said the cases ready to be filed against the Vice President after June 30 for his involvement in the parking building anomaly may be bailable. Binay camp unfazed Meanwhile, Binay’s spokesman for political affairs yesterday expressed confidence that he would be cleared in all cases. “In a fair and impartial venue, we are confident that the socalled cases against the VP will be dismissed for being frivolous and baseless. We shall exert all legal remedies to prove the ombudsman wrong,” said Rico Quicho. Quicho criticized Morales for ignoring evidence and due process to harass the Vice President while sparing the allies of the present administration. n
THIRD TIME’S THE CHARM. Former PhilHealth Director and now senator-elect Risa Hontiveros said the expression “third time is a charm” worked for her in her three tries in the senatorial race. Hontiveros said she is grateful for finally conquering the Senate seat in her third try and said that she also owe her win to Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach for serving as an inspiration. Philstar.com photo AJ Bolando
Purisima arrested at airport, posts bail by Michael
Punongbayan Philstar.com
MANILA – Dismissed Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Alan Purisima posted bail at the Sandiganbayan yesterday after he was arrested at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) over charges of graft. He arrived at the anti-graft court at around 3:15 p.m. escorted by Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) operatives. Purisima went straight to the Sandiganbayan Sixth Division in Quezon City to undergo processing or booking procedure and posted the P30,000 bail for the graft charges filed against him and several other police officers in connection with the alleged anomalous courier service deal that the PNP entered into in 2011. His lawyer Ponciano Corpus arrived earlier at the anti-graft court to prepare the former PNP chief for the posting of bail, which will grant him temporary liberty while undergoing criminal trial. Purisima and his co-accused will be arraigned June 20 on charges of graft. The Sandiganbayan issued an arrest warrant against him and other respondents to the case on Thursday after finding probable cause for the issuance of the same. Magistrates of the anti-graft court junked his motion for judicial determination of probable cause, which was rendered moot by the ruling. The Sandiganbayan said the grounds or arguments relied upon in the pleading “are matters of defense” and are “best raised and threshed out during trial.” Purisima is accused of involvement in an anomalous courier service contract for firearms licenses with Werfast Documentation Agency Inc. five years ago. The contract was deemed overpriced and questionable. The Office of the Ombudsman filed criminal charges against him and a handful of other former police officials led by then
Former Philippine National Police chief Alan Purisima is escorted by PNP-CIDG and graft court security officers to the Sandiganbayan, which ordered his arrest for alleged graft in a gun license courier deal the PNP entered into in 2011. Photo by Boy Santos
Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) chief Raul Petrasanta. Other respondents to the case were able to avoid being arrested by posting bail as soon as the criminal case was filed and shortly after the arrest warrants were issued against them. Purisima was whisked to the Sandiganbayan after he surrendered to agents of the CIDG National Capital Region at the NAIA Terminal 3 after his arrival from Butuan City. “Let’s go,” Purisima told Supt. Tom Ibay, deputy chief of the CIDG-NCR, who served the arrest warrant issued against him by the Sandiganbayan. Wearing a gray t-shirt, walking shorts and sunglasses with a bull cap covering his head, Purisima was led into a waiting vehicle of the CIDG and brought to the Sandiganbayan where he posted bail. Purisima was on vacation in Butuan City when the Sandiganbayan issued an arrest order against him and 10 others due to the anomalous gun license courier service. Upon learning about his arrest warrant, Purisima contacted Senior Supt. Ronald Lee, head of the CIDG-NCR, and arranged his surrender, including his posting bail at the Sandiganbayan. The former PNP chief relayed to Lee the schedule of his plane’s arrival and CIDG agents were posted at NAIA Terminal 3.
Upon disembarking from the plane, Purisima was escorted by agents from the Aviation Security Group who turned him over to the CIDG agents at about 1:45 p.m., said Lee. The arrest of Purisima saddened his former subordinates but they are duty-bound to enforce the law. “It pains us that we have to arrest a former boss but we have to do our job. We are mandated to enforce the law without fear or favor. If we turn our back and did not arrest him, we will be accused of being biased. We are all professionals to do our mandated task,” said CIDG chief Director Victor Deona. “He did not resist arrest. Our men approached him and informed him about the order of the anti-graft court and he voluntarily went with them and the group directly went to the Sandiganbayan,” Deona added. Purisima and his co-accused were indicted for violation of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, over the contract for the delivery of gun licenses nationwide that the PNP granted to Werfast Documentation Agency Inc. Deona said the case against Purisima and several police officers is bailable and he does not expect the former PNP chief to be brought to the PNP Custodial Center. (With Non Alquitran, Cecille Suerte Felipe, Jaime Laude)
Osmeña decries ‘widespread’ cheating
every province, local cheating, vote buying. I’m not even talking about vote-buying; vote-buyTHERE was “widespread” ing has become very normal. It’s cheating during the last elections very disappointing na na-spoiled perpetrated by the “Garci boys” na ‘yung mga botante, talagang at the Commission on Elections inaantay nila ‘yan (It’s very dis(Comelec), outgoing Senator appointing that the voters have Serge Osmeña III said on Thurs- become spoiled already, that day, May 19. they are just waiting for the voteThe “Garci” alluded to was buying to commence).” former election commissioner Osmeña said the “Garci boys” Virgilio Garcillano, who allegedly in the Comelec, who have not conspired with then President been removed from their posts, and now detained Pampanga were the culprits behind the Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to cheating. rig the 2004 polls. “Yung mga Garci Boys, an“Why don’t you check the re- dyan pa ‘yung mga Garci boys, sults? I was always in the survey hindi tinanggal (The Garci boys then of all a sudden some sena- are still there; they were not retors were able to add two to four moved)…Yes they are inside million votes to their totals,” Os- Comelec,” he said. meña told reporters when asked “Nag-offer pa nga sila e nagwhy he did not make it to the papadala ng message sa akin: Magic 12 in the senatorial race. ‘Boss mag protection ka na.’ Sabi “May mga (There are) Garci boys,” he added. Asked how the supposed cheating was done, the senator said: “I can just see the results. If I’m leading you by two million by nico alconaba votes and then after election day, Inquirer.net you’re leading me by two million votes, that’s four million votes. DAVAO CITY – Former SecuriNakuha mo in three days, four ties and Exchange Commission days? Imposible ‘yun (You gath- chair Perfecto Yasay Jr. has acered those votes in three days, cepted his designation as acting four days? That’s impossible). foreign affairs secretary of preMatagal na ako sa business (I’ve sumptive President-elect Rodribeen in the business for a long go Duterte’s administration, the time), I’ve been in politics for a spokesperson of Duterte’s media long time. I know that’s impos- team said Wednesday, May 18. sible.” Peter Laviña told the Philippine Osmeña said the cheating was Daily Inquirer by text that Yasay not limited to the senatorial races has already made “preliminary only. contact buildings.” “No there was a widespread “I also shared with him foreign cheating all over the country, iba policy issues raised during the iba ‘yung style nila,” he said. campaign,” Laviña said. “It’s widespread, practically in On his Facebook page, Laviña by Maila
ager Inquirer.net
ko ayoko (They sent me an offer: ‘Boss, protect your votes.’ I declined).” Asked how much the offer was, Osmeña said: “In the beginning, early on mga P10 a vote, pumili ka na (you choose). Let’s say, I want one million votes at P10, e di (for a total of) P10 million. ‘Yung mga iba maraming pera (others had a lot of money) ‘so give me five million votes at P10 (each),’ that’s P50 million,” the senator added. He said the offer was made through common friends. Despite his claim, Osmeña said he would no longer file an election protest, saying the process would be difficult since the cheating took place not only in one place but all over the country. The senator’s term will end on June 30, 2016. n
Yasay accepts DFA post in Duterte administration
Perfecto Yasay Jr. Photo from Mr. Yasay’s Twitter page
also wrote that Yasay “also now handles requests from various embassies for briefing on the new Duterte administration.” n
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Journal
Andi, Jaclyn, Brillante at the 69th Cannes International film fest by Joyce Jimenez Philstar.com
ANDI Eigenmann fulfills her dream to attend Cannes International Film Festival together with her mom Jaclyn Jose and director Brillante Mendoza. T h e i r f i l m “ M a’ R o s a” i s one of the nominees for the main competition of the 69th Cannes International Film Festival currently happening today (Philippine Time) in Southern France. This is the first film of Brillante that made it to the main competition. He has submitted films before in the festival namely “Serbis” in 2008, “Kinatay” in 2009 where he won best director, and “Taklub” in Andi Eigenmann, Jaclyn Jose and director Brillante Mendoza at the 69th Cannes International Film Festival for their nominated film “Ma’Rosa.” 2015.
Dr. Vicki Belo to Hayden Kho: You’re the dream man I’ve always prayed for by Joyce Jimenez Philstar.com
DRA. Vicki Belo posted an emotional message for Dr. Hayden Kho, who is celebrating his birthday today. On Friday, May 20, Vicki posted on her Instagram account a photo of Hayden and their baby Scarlet Snow. “Happy birthday to my beloved @dochayden. I always could see that you were smart, witty, kind, caring and loving,” she said in the caption. She also added that “it took awhile but you’re the dream man I’ve always prayed for.” In the end, she thanked Hayden for loving her and their baby Scarlet Snow. Last Monday, May 18, the couple revealed that they have a daughter who turned one year old last March. Dr. Vicki Belo and Hayden Kho
Dawn Zulueta ‘felt alive again’ after doing film with Piolo Pascual by Joyce Jimenez Philstar.com
DAWN Zulueta’s upcoming film “Love Me Tomorrow” has left her feeling “alive again” after a long while in the showbiz industry. “It has been a long time since I felt alive again as an artist,” she said on Wednesday, May 18. The experienced actress explained that she doesn’t disregard what she has done before, but explained that “it has been kind of repetitive in the last maybe six years or so. So I’ve been missing the challenge, the challenge of doing something
new, something I have never really tried before.” Unlike her previous projects, Dawn said that the film has tested her range as an actress “not on how much I can cry or how much I can get mad, but the other spectrum. The being light.” Since she’s so used to doing dramatic roles, she somehow found it harder to do light projects. After the new experiences she had doing this film, Dawn only hopes that “when people watch it, you’ll see what I mean and I hope they would see na, ‘oo nga, iba nga ang ginawa ni Dawn.’” Dawn Zulueta
Philstar.com photo
Features
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Moonlighting
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The perils of Kristeta: The back story
by Mylah
— a trusted listener in casual conversation about school, love and crushes, while I pounded the Malacanang beat. That is how I will always remember her, always wearing A long, long time ago, Kris her heart on her sleeve and exAquino and I sat together by the cruciatingly vulnerable. SShe steps of the guest House, the of- was a schoolgirl dreaming of ficial residence of then President and headed for stardom. Young, Cory Aquino. We goofed around pretty, fresh, impulsive and at the foyer of Hacienda luisita the country’s most popular and during various presidential teenager. She had a particular sorties around the archipelago gift of making the hardest stuff, de
leon
Kris Aquino then and now
even for a presidential daughter code named, “bunso,” seem appealingly easy. At all times she was a playful free spirit said to have blown away cobwebs inside the palace with her girlish laughter and chatter about dates, clothes, parties even school chores. She was surrounded by people who would trip on their shoe laces to give her everything she wished for. Yet she had also somehow managed to become the most loved performer on TV and movies regardless of being dubbed “Taklesa Queen” because of her propensity for random, spontaneous, tactless, and/or blush-inducing remarks. But she took her movie roles to heart. She is great in memorizing her lines, giving them dramatic and emotional expressions that merited only a few takes for a neophyte. At the Palace, we saw a
perfectly-adjusted and loveable little princess — intellectually curious, socially conscious and oozing with fun and spontaneity. The 18-year-old Kristeta was a template for the ideal presidential daughter’s personality. She not only managed to wrangle a degree at Ateneo, majoring in Political Science and Humanities, but was in the top 20. She found herself pitted against other young movie stars, brimming with hope, dreams and talent, who like her, had a kind of combative creativeness and audacity. But she was sweet and gentle, with nary a minutiae of weakness. Even then she was resolute and indomitable. I remember one evening, Pres. Cory Aquino had invited a couple of Malacanang reporters to watch Kris on her TV show. She was making a dramatic entrance, blasting in PAGE B3
Master Chef host Godron Ramsay with Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach Photo from Wurtzbach’s Instgram account
Pia Wurtzbach ‘all dolled up’ in travel app shoot, meets Gordon Ramsay MISS Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach stunned social media again in her chic and exquisite photo shoot for a travel app that can virtually tour anyone around Asia. Wurtzbach tried on national costumes of different Asian nations. She posted her dazzling snaps on social media site Instagram. The Filipina beauty queen and culinary graduate also shared her giddy and riveting meet-and-greet experience with world-famous chef and British entrepreneur dur-
ing the event sponsored by Fox in new York. Pia shares her once-in-a-lifetime thrill on Instagram, “How kilig I was when I met him! I told him all about my culinary background in Manila and England.” She also joked that gordon neither yelled nor blurt out cuss words at her. gordon is known to everyone as the ‘tough-talking’ host of reality shows “The Hell’s Kitchen,” “Ramsay’s Kitchen nightmares,” “Master Chef,” and “Hotel Hell.” (Gianna Francesca Catolico/Inquirer.net)
After failed Senate bid, Isko Moreno plans showbiz comeback MAnIlA—outgoing Manila family after losing in the recent nila tried his luck to get a seat at Vice Mayor Isko Moreno is ex- senatorial race. the Senate, only he didn’t land a cited to have more time with his The former vice mayor of Ma- spot in the “Magic 12.” “no, no regrets at all,” he replied when asked if he regretted running for senator, in an interview in ABS-CBn’s late-night talk show “Tonight with Boy Abunda” on Tuesday, May 17. Moreno said it was easy for him to accept his defeat. “I think hindi pa ready ang tao for me. So bakit mo ipipilit ang isang bagay na hindi pa naman para sa iyo.” He also denied asking reelected Manila Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada if he could run for mayor this election since he didn’t want to “divide” the city. “I don’t want to divide the city because of too much poliAfter admitting defeat in the senatorial race, Isko Moreno is already back on his feet and tics nalugmok ang syudad dahil plans to enjoy some quality time with his family. sa away ng mga politiko,” he
explained. For now, he looks forward to spending more time with his family, especially now his eldest child will be entering college. “Unang-una siguro magpapamilya ako. Marami akong utang sa mga anak ko,” he replied when asked about his plans after the elections. “Second, I’ll do some business, ‘yong maliit kong negosyo ipo-focus ko.” He also bared his plan to return to showbiz. “I’ll come back sa showbiz, maybe [do] talk show like you [Abunda], kasi pinapanood ko kayo lagi,” he said. “‘Yon ‘yong essence leading a talk show, e, sometimes ‘yong viewers mo kasi kaya mo i-move, e. Also that’s sort of public service, by giving factual information [to the people],” Isko said. (Joyce Jimenez/Philstar.com)
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Get your immigration questions answered live on June 5 – on ‘Citizen Pinoy’! On its 11th year of unparalleled public service to the community, “Citizen Pinoy” goes the extra mile by doing a real-time LIVE telecast on Sunday, June 5 on TFC. Host and leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel and the staff behind the awardwinning public service program are excited about their first ever LIVE telecast. Atty. Gurfinkel is looking forward to this endeavor. According to him, “now, it will be a ‘real time’ contact and more interactive with viewers.” This attempt makes “Citizen Pinoy” readily available to its core audience across north America. The replies to their immigration concerns will also be immediate. As Atty. Gurfinkel emphasizes, “People will get the feeling of an actual “live” consultation right in the comfort of their homes.” This early, viewers are already encouraged to send in their questions as private messages via www.facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw. On the actual day of the live telecast, phone lines will also be set up so viewers can call in. Questions can be sent via Facebook and phone patch. Atty. Gurfinkel invites everyone to join in with this message – “We hope the audience will find this more exciting, as the
“People will get the feeling of an actual “live” consultation right in the comfort of their homes,” is how Atty. Gurfinkel describes the show when CITIZEN PINOY GOES LIVE on JUNE 5. n its continued desire to bring public service to Kapamilya across the US, CITIZEN PINOY expands its reach by going LIVE in order to reach more of our core audience and provide immediate replies to their questions. Leading US immigration attorney MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL is “very excited about going live. Now it will be a ‘real time’ contact and more interactive with viewers.” The host and the staff are looking forward to the show’s innovation for Sunday, JUNE 5 when CP goes LIVE. Audiences are encouraged to already send in your questions at www.facebook. com/GurfinkelLaw The LIVE telecast of CITIZEN PINOY will be seen on Sunday, JUNE 5 at 3:15 PM (Pacific)/ 6:15 PM (Eastern) on TFC.
whole purpose is to provide not only the best public service, but a more interactive one.” Save the date, and be sure to
catch us when “Citizen Pinoy” goes LIVE on Sunday, June 5 at 3:15 PM (Pacific) and 6:15 PM (Eastern) on TFC.
Celebrating Priscilla by Yolanda
Core Pastrana
FAMILy and friends of Priscilla D. Hunt recently gathered to celebrate the 85th Milestone of Priscilla D. Hunt in a black and white setting at the Man-
CREWMAN WENT HOME TO MANILA ON PROVISIONAL WAIVER AND CAME BACK TO THE US WITH A GREEN CARD — ON A SPECIAL ENCORE EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY!” Leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel obtained a Provisional Waiver for Jerome, a crewman who jumped ship. Jerome had filed for Adjustment of Status on his own, but it was denied, because he was not eligible. With the approved Provisional Waiver of the 3\10 year bar, Jerome returned to the Philippines for visa processing at the US Embassy in Manila. His wife and children wondered and prayed if Jerome could make it back to the US. Every crewman and their US spouse should watch the outcome of this Provisional Waiver case on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy – on Sunday, May 22 at 6:15pm (PST) on TFC.
The Global Kababayan
real estate advice. May is Asian Pacific AmeriG. TönGi can Heritage Month! Professor Brandon Reilly for “Know HisMonday, May 23 - Dom tory Know Self” discusses how Magwili, Professor of Pilipino Filipinos are the quintessential Experience, showcases the work Asian Pacific Americans. of his students on the show. Thursday, May 26 - Doctor Tuesday, May 24 - Jake Ma- Lee shares information on the capagal, star of the film “Metro Cancer Center of Hawaii. Joan Manila” shares his experience Almedilla, Grace Amilbangsa & being in Los Angeles. Cristina Sison, who are proud Wednesday, May 25 - Mid- Fil-Ams in the performing arts, week news Updates from the come to the show. Asian Journal and Mia Mcleod Friday, May 27 - Xeng Zuluof McLeod and Associates gives eta, a professional makeup artist
from the Philippines. Here she shares what it takes to work in the entertainment industry. *** Giselle “G” Töngi is the host and producer of Kababayan Today, a daily talk show that features relevant topics for Filipino’s living in America. Her aim is to bridge not only the cultural gap between America & the Philippines but to help with the generational gap between our own people. She is married with two children and is based in Southern California and makes frequent trips in the Pacific Rim to Hawaii and Manila to feature fellow kababayans who are empowering the FilAm community.
Annabella Rama not interested in gov’t posts by JoYCe Jimenez
“Wala akong hiningi,” she repeated. AnnABELLE Rama is not inShe added that she doesn’t want terested in any government posito be labelled among those people tion to be offered by the Duterte who “dahil sikat ka you will have a administration. position pero wala ka namang alam Davao City Mayor Rodrigo gawin. Ayoko naman ng ganon. Duterte, the incoming president Wala, hindi ako interesado.” of the Philippines, is good friends Meanwhile, Annabelle said with Annabelle. She even visited they’re now preparing for the fourth him a week after the elections to season of “It Takes Gutz to be a congratulate him for his lead in the Gutierrez.” Philstar.com photo unofficial tally of the Commission Annabelle Rama She said they’re planning to has requested for any government shoot the show here in the Philipon Elections. “Ay hindi naman, dyusko!” she position from Duterte, in an inter- pines since all of her children are replied laughing when asked if she view on Thursday, May 19. busy with work. Philstar.com
Family members gather around to honor their Matriarch. L-R): Cynthia Soma, Sara and Ryan Moore, Brenda Nowotka, Crystal and Riley Beckinger, Saxon Nowotka, Ralph and Susan Moore, Priscilla Hunt, Melissa Steeber, Diana and Ralph Simmons, Aarika and Trip Simmons, Heidi and Diego Lopez, Kaiko and Noelani Soma and Sean Simmons. Photos by Joe Cobilla
hattan Beach Marriot Hotel in Manhattan Beach, California. The honoree is the daughter of former Aringay Mayor Isidro Dulay of La Union and Laureana Pajarillo of Aklan. She is president and Hunt Enterprises COO Ralph Moore and Susan CEO of Hunt Enterprises, Inc., Moore (Hilda Koronel) with Sharon Almonte at a real estate corporation that has acquired, developed and the welcome reception.
The perils of Kristeta... PAGE B2 a rock number. The catwalk was improperly constructed and she suddenly fell, disappeared and vanished from the stage into a filthy dark hole, five feet below, right into a mangle of uncovered pipes. Initially the audience just tittered, so did we – but that was an accident waiting to happen. The result was a hospital stay and she had to wear braces on her neck for a while. I’ve seen presidential cool disintegrate. Pres. Cory was so horrified I thought she was going to have a heart seizure. And irony of ironies, that fall was mild compared to Kris’s future falls. Then, the young girl grew up. Fell in love not just once, but twice and gave her mother incurable heartaches. Inflamed by
Programming of Kababayan Today, May 23-27, 2016
love and interpreted gently, at first they were amusing, within the enchanted realm, only seen by the physical eyes. However, her affairs of the heart soon started to wound herself and those around her. At first, it would seem that love merely became clouded over, surrounded by mental mists that still connected to softness, innocence of the spirit with hope and faith, and a sense of trust and wonder — in that rapture called love. But what is real doesn’t go away. The truth does not stop being the truth just because we’re not looking at it. She was the 7-year-old campaigner that was featured on the front page of new york Times and Time magazine as she wooed the crowd as a stand in for her imprisoned father
managed residential, commercial and industrial properties in Southern California for over 50 years. Along with her husband, Donald Hunt, Priscilla extends her philanthropic arm through the Donald and Priscilla Hunt Cancer Institute at the Torrance Memorial Medical Center. at campaign rallies during the infamous 1978 parliamentary elections. Her father, Senator Benigno Aquino was assassinated in 1983, now a national hero. Fast forward: a nation watched her mourn another death, again the hurt and pain of losing another parent. Then, there’s the agony of a failed marriage, with its haunting repercussions. But in her durable heart, these are the bare bones of the past, another yesterday she can’t change. no matter how painful, she stayed firm with her tenacity and good will. Once more, she wiped her tears, straightened her back, and held her head up with astonishing strength. She will continue to shimmer in the firmament of renown, out there beyond celebrity, beyond fame, with her certain ineffable aura. Today, she remains indomitable. To critics, her mantra is: “let them play in the traffic!”
B may 21-24, 2016 • La WEEKEND aSIaN JOURNaL
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Five popular eateries coming to downtown Glendale by Christina
M. Oriel
AJPress
Some exciting news for foodies who live and work in Glendale. Caruso Affiliated, the privately held real estate company behind The Americana at Brand and the Grove, announced on Thursday, may 12 that in addition to burger chain Shake Shack, four eateries will be making their way to downtown Glendale this fall. Last December, it was revealed that Shake Shack would have its second Southern California outpost at 252 S. Brand in the city. eggslut, Greenleaf Gourmet Chopshop, mainland Poke and Philz Coffee are also confirmed as tenants for the new develop-
Samples from Greenlead Gourmet Chopshop
AJPress photos by Christina M. Oriel
ment, which is eyed to make Brand Boulevard a more “walkable destination.” Within a few blocks, the din-
ing and shopping options are by michael mina at The Ameriabundant. Right across the street cana at Brand. are restaurants like Lemonade, “Glendale has quickly become Din Tai Fung and Bourbon Steak a mecca for both destination fashion and food concepts. We are excited to welcome these cult-cool, new tenants as the latest additions to Glendale’s downtown district. These tenants further define the city as one of the hippest enclaves of Los Angeles,” Kloe Colacarro, head of leasing for Caruso Affiliated, said in a statement. City officials and members of the media got to taste some of the offerings from the eateries last Thursday, including Shake Shack’s famous ShackBurger and strawberry frozen custard and the ‘Slut’ (coddled egg on top of potato purée) from eggslut. San Francisco-originated The ‘Slut’ from Eggslut and a cup of medium Philz Coffee served its medium ShackBurger and strawberry frozen custard from Shake Shack roast from Philz Coffee
Artist’s renderings of 252 S. Brand in Glendale, courtesy of Caruso Affiliated
and dark roasts, while mainland Poke Shop had bites of salmon poke and Greenleaf Gourmet Chopshop offered turkey melt on pretzel bread and a mixed greens salad. no exact date has been an-
nounced for the openings of these spots, but in the meantime, you can satisfy your cravings by lining up at Shake Shack’s West Hollywood location or at Grand Central market in downtown LA for eggslut.
Contouring is out, strobing is in: The latest makeup trend for your summer look ting its way to the limelight. This new trend gives your bronzer and By Monet Lu contour kit their much-needed downtime, because it gives way to a dewy and glowy skin. Step Don’T you just love it when aside contour, and give me some summer is approaching? i love STRoBe! how the suns sets so late and how Strobing, as makeup experts it makes you feel like you have more calls it, is the latest makeup trend daytime hours; not to mention, we’ve seen on runway models, plenty of things you can still do ‘til vloggers and well, everyone. And the sun goes down at about 7-8pm. just like i mentioned earlier, it pracAnd since you have so much “so- tically skips the chiseled features lar-powered” energy, you seem to of a full contour in favor of dewy be active and glowing throughout skin that glimmers in all the right the day. places. Speaking of glowing, there’s a To make a much clear contrast, new makeup trend that is strut- let’s talk about contouring and how
its different to strobing. Contour was popularized by Kim Kardashian and its one of the best beauty tricks that was introduced to us. Blending your makeup to achieve those killer cheekbones, “painted” nose job, and a thinner face gives you unbelievable results. But as the summer heat rises, the feel of foundations and powder (or cream) layered on your face is becomes to heavy for a typical summer day. enter: strobing – in all its glorious highlights. As opposed to contouring, strobing does the complete opposite of using a thick blend of darker and
lighter shades to chisel your facial features such as the cheeks, nose and chin. The only product you’ll need for strobing is an illuminating highlighter—and lots of it. Forget the chiseled look that you get from painting your face with graphic lines of bronzer and blush because this “anti-contour” look is life-changing. Aside from it being “melt-proof”, the luminous look is just pretty – plus, wearing it is much more appropriate – and do-able before you do your summer activities (i.e. beach, hiking, etc.) Teach me how to strobe Strobe—even the word makes you want to dance—or maybe it’s just me. Strobing relies solely on highlighters and natural light to define your face to radiate a youthful look. While contouring requires the use of multiple products, strobing is a lot simpler and involves finding where the natural light hits, like the cheekbones, brows, nose and chin, and using the highlighter to define that area. Unlike contouring which often leaves a matte finish, strobing delivers a shimmery effect. You can achieve this look by getting a glowy base for your makeup and apply a generous amount to your cheek bones, the bridge of your nose, below your brow bone, and at the corners of your eye, then blending in with your fingers or a sponge. it’s the perfect lightweight, radiant look.
Copyright (c) Greg Gekman
Some may ask if it’s applicable to all skin tones – and my answer is, yes. if you are a fair to medium tone, you may use shades leaning on the champagne-y shade. if you are tanned to dark, you would want to use golds and deeper bronzed shades. For the fairer skin tones, you don’t want to use anything that’s too deep. mastering the look is not that hard. You start with a clear, smooth complexion. Then apply a lightweight, iridescent tinted moisturizer to the face and neck, blending well. There’s so many strobe-oriented products out there. They come in liquid, cream and powder form. Choose what suits your skin best. next, you’ll want to apply a highlighter to the most prominent areas of your face, including the top of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose and the upper-middle forehead. A helpful trick would be to picture where the sunlight hits most directly and apply there. For a final touch, apply a light, slightlyshimmery translucent powder to
set the look. Achieve a full summer strobe-y look by letting your radiant skin be the star. Keep the rest of your look simple. Strong eyebrows and a little mascara is all you need. This makeup trend is so right up my alley. i love a fresh and natural look. even my clients can attest to that. What better way to enjoy a summer glow but to don a fresh, youthful — but still well-defined — complexion, sans the traditional contouring. Whoever thought of strobing is a genius. i am definitely a fan. *** 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
Dingdong Dantes, Angelica Panganiban reunite by JOyCe JiMenez Philstar.com
AnGeLiCA Panganiban and Dingdong Dantes will reunite in a film under Star Cinema. The two artists, who came from rival networks, will work together again after four years of starring in a film. They first worked together in 2012 in the film “one more Try” together with Angel Locsin and Zanjoe marudo. in the announcement of Star Cinema, the two will be joined by Paulo Avelino in a film to be directed by maryo J. Delos Reyes. However, Angelica was not able to attend their first story conference held on Tuesday, may 17 Dingdong Dantes, Angelica Panganiban and Paulo Avelino will star in a film under Star Cinema. at the Star Cinema office.
Jessy Mendiola, JC de Vera go ‘light’ in new series FReSH from the success of their first ever soap You’re my Home, rising tandem Jessy mendiola and JC de Vera are onto giving “kilig vibes” this time through Wansapanataym Presents: Just Got Laki. mendiola and de Vera happily welcomed the first time that they would be working on something that is for the young ones and the young-at-heart through the award-winning fantasy-drama anthology show. “Siyempre may ligawan and mga things na very different from You’re my Home kasi nga ‘yun heavy drama ito very light lang at may kilig,” de Vera said. “it’s something different from what we usually do and siyempre given our personal life,” said mendiola.
De Vera points out that their newest project is a welcome deviation from their already established and accepted roles. “Wider lang ‘yung range na makikita. Siyempre hindi lang sa isang angle na heavy drama and comedy like sa Banana Sundae. Very far from sexy very far from the different genres that we are used to,” he said. The leading man takes the role of macky, a young boy who transformed into an adult overnight after munching on a magic candy. mendiola, meanwhile, will be taking on the role of isabel, the gracious daughter of the candy store owner where macky’s mother played by Angel Aquino happens to work. The newest project is a welcome deviation The show’s romance angle will from the pair’s already established and accepted roles. PAGE B5
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Guyabano: The power fruit to know A NUmBER of fruits found in the Philippines have been touted as power fruits: the coconut, pineapple, mango and banana. But studies show that guyabano (sometimes called soursop), also has superior properties that may be naturally antiviral, antiparasitic and may additionally suppress inflammation, according to an article published by the San Francisco Chronicle. In a study published in the September 2015 edition of the American Journal of Bioscience and Bioengineering, it was found that the coumarin fraction of guyabano extract has significant antioxidant and anti-uricemic activities. Researchers further cited that laboratory studies have found that guyabano extracts can kill certain types of liver and breast cancer cells that are resistant to particular chemotherapy drugs, although there have not yet been any large-scale studies in humans. The benefits of guyabano can be enjoyed directly through the fruit itself and now in capsules, offered by a Southern Californiabased company called Natural Vitamin Source. It provides consumers with three products that help boost the immune system: Natural guyabano leaf and stem capsules. This dietary supplement is made from the natural leaf & stem of the guyabano tree. Each capsule contains a phytochemical called Annonaceous acetogenins that support healthy cell growth and functions. Natural guyabano advanced
Air Care Saver Air Conditioning and Heating: Your guide to home comfort formula. The capsules in this product contain a unique blend of natural guyabano that is rich in vitamins and minerals, including natural Vitamin C and E, selenium, red raspberry extract, curcumin, beta-glucan, cat’s claw, garlic, Korean ginseng, lycopene, quercetin, pine bark, grape seed, pomegranate, essiac tea complex, AHCC, mushroom complex, ARA-6 and olive leaf extract. Natural guyabano advanced formula chewable. All properties in these vitamins are identical to the regular advanced formula, except the capsules are more easily swallowable. Although the product name suggests these are chewables, they must be taken with water, as the ingredients contained in the supplement are too strong for the capsules to be chewed. These guyabano products are made in the United States and are made in a facility registered
Jessy Mendiola, JC de Vera... PAGE B4 center on macky’s longstanding admiration of Isabel, which transcended even though he transformed into an adult. Instead of getting “too mechanical” with their acting, mendiola shared that their approach was “not to prepare for” the show in order to make their performances and approach as natural
as possible. meanwhile, still overwhelmed by the amount of support that they are getting from their followers, mendiola and de Vera are hoping for the best for their Wansapanataym episode. “Habang ginagawa namin ito parang sinasabi namin ‘Sana ‘yung next natin light lang,” said mendiola. (ManilaTimes.net)
under the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Natural Vitamin Source is owned by Prima Bernardus, who is passionate about telling the world about the medical fruit, particularly after one of his friends died of cancer. Bernardus also said he has a client with cancer who opted to take guyabano dietary supplements from Natural Vitamin Source as an alternative to chemotherapy. His client’s doctor observed that his CEA level – a protein measured that appears in the blood of certain people with specific types of cancer – dropped after he began taking the supplement. Asian Journal readers can take advantage of guyabano health benefits by ordering the dietary supplements online at www.naturalguyabano. com with a special 25 percent discount and free shipping by entering the code asianjournal at checkout. (Advertising supplement)
TODAY, weather patterns happen in extremes. Scientists have warned that wherever you are, people can expect hotter summers and colder winters. Because of this, ensuring the comfort of your home becomes central to you and your family’s health. To relieve yourself from the discomfort of severe weather changes, what you need is a dependable heating ventilation and air-condition (HVAC) system and a provider that will help it adapt as the season changes. Filipino-owned Air Care Saver has a team of highlytrained professionals who offer heating and air conditioning repairs, new installations, heat pumps, air handlers, AC and Furnace tune-ups, duct work, indoor air quality, ventilation and maintenance for residential customers. The company provides HVAC system repair,
maintenance, and installation throughout the West Covina, San Gabriel Valley, Orange Country, Inland Empire and Los Angeles areas. From ductless mini splits to zoning system to Wi-Fi digital thermostats, hospital grade filtration and UV germicidal lights—all services are covered to match any of the client’s needs. Installations of duct work systems, whole house fans, and cool ventilations are also included in many of their versatile services. To ensure and protect each client’s property, clean-cut technicians go through an intensive background check. Estimations for a new home comfort system are offered for free with full benefits. Schedules are always met and Air Care Saver makes sure that they arrive at an appointment on time. Ralph Ayers, owner of Air
Care Saver, is always willing to speak to new customers about how much more comfortable you can get at home through your HVAC system. “If you need service on your A/C and Heating unit call Ralph at Air Caresaver,” Gonzalez L. Downey shared on Yelp. “Our old unit needed to be upgraded. He showed us many different brands and prices so that we could compare them. Once we decided on a unit. He worked very quickly.” Bad credit? No credit? No problem! Upgrade your current HVAC system now with Air Care Saver for as low as $99 per month. Low prices and flexible financing options are also guaranteed for maintenance and repair services. Call Air Saver today at 1(800) 847-0877 or visit www. aircaresaver.com to set an appointment. (Advertising supplement)
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Your Immigration Solution Devin M, Connolly THERE are countless number of people who dream about lawfully living and working in the United States. Making this dream a reality is a possibility for many of them, but only if they are able to successfully navigate the United States’ confusing and complex immigration laws. Given the incredible importance placed on being granted permanent resident status (green card) or US citizenship, it is surprising how many people attempt to achieve their immigration goals without the assistance of an experienced attorney that specializes in immigration law. It is true that some do succeed, but many others fail. And this failure may lead to their ultimate nightmare – being deported. A person that is presently living in the United States must file their request for immigration benefits with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS). However, do not think that the process merely requires the completion of a simple form. First, the forms are not always easy to understand. Many of the forms contain complicated questions that require a person to understand terms and language which have a precise meaning unique to immigration law. This meaning may differ from what many people expect it to be. Thus, a person may deprive themselves of lawfully residing in the United States simply because they did not understand the question they were being asked. More important than the forms though is that an applicant should carefully review their eligibility for the requested benefit before submitting any application to the USCIS. This assessment requires a review of many things, including dates of entries and exits from the US, type of visa (if any) held at entry to the US, the immigration status and
The importance of an immigration attorney history of the applicant and their family members, etc. The failure to make this assessment before submitting the application may lead to something much worse than a denial – it may lead to being deported, perhaps within a matter of hours. After eligibility is established, the applicant must submit a welldocumented request for an immigration benefit. The submission of sufficient documentary evidence, ranging from a birth or marriage certificate to complex medical records, is vital since it is the applicant who has the burden of proving that they are eligible for the requested benefit. Since it is the applicant who must prove admissibility, they should do everything they can to maximize their chances of being granted the requested benefit by submitting evidence that is thorough and persuasive. It is clear that an assessment of eligibility is important, as are properly completed forms and sufficient supporting documents, but perhaps the most important reason to retain an experienced immigration attorney is to be adequately represented at your personal interview before a USCIS officer. A decision on the application will frequently be made based off statements made by the applicant during their interview. These interviews can be stressful, nerve-wracking experiences, but the aspiring immigrant needs to do everything possible to ensure their personal interview is
successful. That is not always easy though. It may be the applicant’s first time attending a personal interview for an immigration benefit with the USCIS, and they are likely to be questioned by an experienced USCIS officer who has conducted many of these types of interviews. In addition, the USCIS officer may aggressively question the applicant, they may pressure them to answer questions to which they do not know the answers, and they may also allow the applicant to make statements that are harmful to their case. Saying the wrong thing during an interview can make it significantly more difficult to ever lawfully reside in the US And while the applicant may later realize they misspoke or that they did not actually understand the questions they were being asked, it may too late to fix the problems created. The application may already be denied and the Department of Homeland Security may have already begun the process of deporting them to their native country. As you can see, the personal interview is extremely important. In conclusion, it is always advisable for immigrants to retain the services of an experienced and knowledgeable attorney who is dedicated solely to the practice of immigration law. Hiring the right attorney may be the difference between obtaining a green card and being deported. It is therefore one of the most signifi-
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Minding Your Finances Atty. RAymond BulAon ARE your debt problems keeping you up at night and causing a lot of stress in your life? Have you thought of filing bankruptcy but can’t decide whether it’s the smart thing to do? When no other means of debt relief are available, filing for bankruptcy may be the only way to get out of debt for most people. The good news is that the old stigma associated with filing bankruptcy no longer really exists and most people who file bankruptcy usually rebuild credit very successfully in only 2-3 years. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should take the decision to file lightly. Filing bankruptcy is still a very serious decision and is one that must be made with the expert assistance of a knowledgeable and experienced attorney. When done correctly, however, it could be the best decision you ever made to turn a hopeless situation around. There are 2 basic types of bankruptcy for individuals. Chapter 7 bankruptcy allows you discharge all outstanding debts that you can no longer pay with the exception of certain types of debts such as student loans, taxes and child support. The process begins by filing a “petition for relief” with the bankruptcy court. Once the petition is filed, creditors are automatically prohibited from pursuing or continuing any legal action against the debtor or the
Community Journal
Does filing bankruptcy make sense for your situation? debtor’s property unless they get permission from the court. Thus, collection calls, lawsuits, wage garnishments, repossessions and foreclosure are stopped immediately. In Chapter 7, secured debts such as mortgages, car loans, and debts for appliances, furniture and jewelry can be kept if your intention is to keep the collateral or security for the debt. If you are no longer interested in keeping the collateral (example: a car), you may surrender it to the creditor and owe nothing. The Chapter 7 trustee (the person appointed by the bankruptcy court to sell non-exempt assets) will examine the debtor by asking a few questions and no appearance before the judge is necessary. The examination is usually brief and uneventful. Creditors may show up at the examination but this is usually rare. Most Chapter 7 cases are no-asset cases and the debtor keeps everything including the family home, vehicles, bank accounts, retirement plans, etc. Thus, it is not as difficult or complicated as some people may think. Chapter 13, on the other hand, allows you to pay back creditors, partially or fully, over a 3-5 year period under court supervision. For people who are behind in mortgage payments, filing for Chapter 13 is also a way to stop foreclosure because delinquent mortgage payments can be included in the repayment plan. The debtor’s attorney puts together a Chapter 13 plan based on the
debtor’s income and expenses at the time of filing. The plan proposes a payment of a fixed amount based on the debtor’s surplus income and the plan is subject to court approval. Creditors may object to confirmation of the Chapter 13 plan based on certain grounds but once the Court approves the proposed plan, it becomes final and creditors must accept it, whether they like it or not. Thus, this could be a way for you to pay creditors on your terms instead of being forced to pay more than you can afford. Which chapter is appropriate for your situation will depend on the facts of your case, the nature of your debts and your objective in filing. For this reason, do NOT hire an attorney who is not experienced in handling both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases if you are unsure about which type of bankruptcy to file. If you are struggling with debt problems and would like to know if bankruptcy is advisable for your situation, let us help you understand this process so that you can make an informed decision. For a free consultation, you can call my office at Toll-Free 1-866477-7772. We have offices in Glendale, Cerritos and Valencia. ***
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Tax Tips VictoR Sy, cPA, mBA
Background WHEN is your return free from IRS audit? From your point of view, statute of limitations prevents the IRS from collecting a deficiency in tax or beginning a civil or criminal case. Statute of limitations provides a date of finality after which the IRS or the taxpayer can take no further actions. We can breathe a little easier when we know that our returns are out of the line of fire. Three-year Statute of Limitations Normally, the IRS must assess tax, or file suit against the taxpayer to collect the tax, within three years after the return is filed. The three-year period of limitation on assessment also applies to penalties. The statute increased to four years if you omit 25% of your gross income. There is no statute for fraudulent returns. The statute never runs out and you can be audited anytime. When the Statute Runs The statute of limitations on assessment begins to run on the day after you file your return. None of the information herein is in- Thus, the day of filing is excludtended to give legal advice for any specific ed from the computation of the situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has success- three-year period. For example, fully helped thousands of clients in getting taxpayers who filed their 2015 out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation Form 1040 on 4/15/16 are free of your situation, please call Ray Bulaon and clear after 4/15/19 as the Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1 (866) 477-7772. IRS can’t assess a deficiency af(Advertising Supplement) ter that date. A return filed early
Basics of statute of limitations is considered filed on the due date of the return. A return filed after the original due date, is considered filed on the date the return is actually received by the IRS. Extending the due date of the return does not shorten the assessment period. Example 1: Statute of limitations for individual income tax Form 1040: If you filed your 2015 Form 1040 return on 3/5/16, the return was deemed filed on 4/15/16, and thus, the IRS can’t assess a tax deficiency after 4/15/19. If the return was extended to 10/15/16, and was filed on that date, the period of assessment would run from 10/15/16 to 10/15/19. If you filed your 2013 Form 1040 return on 4/15/14, the federal statute runs out on 4/15/17. Add two years if you omitted 25% of your income. California has a 4-year stature so the state has until 4/15/18 to audit your 2013 tax return. Example 2: Statute of limitations for quarterly federal payroll tax returns: If your corporation timely filed its quarterly federal payroll tax return Form 941s for the four quarters of 2015 on 4/30/15, 7/31/15, 10/31/15, and 1/31/15, all four returns were deemed filed on 4/17/16, which means that the IRS has until 4/15/19, to assess a tax deficiency for any of the four quarters. Example3: Statute of limitations for unemployment tax return (FUTA) Form 940: Employer’s annual federal unemployment tax return (FUTA) Form 940 doesn’t fall under this rule even though it is an employment tax return. The statute of limitations for a 2015 return expires three years after the
filing deadline on 1/31/16, not 4/15/16. Caveat: The countdown never starts if a return is not filed. TIPS: 1. The usual “out” for a taxpayer under stress is to close the audit fast. 2. You want to end your misery by closing the audit ASAP. 3. But consider going the opposite way: slow down the process. 4. Time can be in your favor. The IRS is not a model of efficiency. 5. Auditors get sick, go for medical checkups, and take care of their kids just like the rest of us. 6. They are promoted, transferred, or fired. In the meantime, the statute can run out. 7. They have only 36 months from the time you file to the time they close the audit. 8. IRS Manual instructs them to finish audit within 28 months. 9. They only have eight months to close your audit, a narrow window for complicated cases. 10. The strategy: speed up or slow down depending on the issues of your case. *** 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)
Disclosure of text messages, e-mails, and Facebook info of a spouse or significant other may constitute domestic violence Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth uRSuA ReyeS DOMESTIC violence is abuse perpetrated against a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant, a girlfriend, a boyfriend, the mother or father of your child, your child. Family Code Section 6211. Abuse is not limited to the actual infliction of physical injury or assault. Family Code, § 6203(b). A court may issue an order enjoining specific acts of “abuse” (§ 6218, subd. (a)), which are defined as, among other things, behavior that could be enjoined under section 6320. (§ 6203, subd. (d).) Section 6320, in turn, permits a court to enjoin a party from engaging in various types of behavior, including “disturbing the peace of the other party.” (§ 6320, subd. (a).) “[T]he plain meaning of the phrase ‘disturbing the peace of the other party’ in section 6320 may be properly understood as conduct that destroys the mental or emotional calm of the other party.” (In re Marriage of Nadkarni (2009) 173 Cal.App.4th 1483, 1497, 93 Cal.Rptr.3d 723 (Nadkarni ).) The phrase includes “destroying the mental or emotional calm of [a former spouse] by accessing, reading and publicly disclosing her confidential e-mails.” (Id. at p. 1498, 93 Cal.Rptr.3d 723.) The expansion of the term “disturbing the peace” to cover accessing, reading, and publicly disclosing electronic communication has profound effect in every divorce and family law case. In Nadkarni, a former wife alleged that her ex-husband had accessed her private e-mail account while she was away on a business trip, then attached copies of the e-mails to documents filed in proceedings regarding custody of their teenaged children. In re Marriage of Nadkarni (2009) 173 Cal.App.4th 1483, 1497, 93 Cal.Rptr.3d 723. She sought a permanent restraining order, but the trial court denied it without a hearing after finding that the DVPA did not cover situations in which there was no physical harm alleged. The appellate court reversed and remanded the matter to the trial court for a hearing. It held that
the definition of abuse under the DVPA is not limited to the infliction of physical injury or assault. Id. at pp. 1498, 1501, 93 Cal. Rptr.3d 723. In Marriage of Evilsizor and Sweeney, husband’s actions in releasing and threatening to release personal data downloaded from wife’s cell phone constituted “disturbing the peace of the other party” and thus “abuse” which warranted restraining order. In re Marriage of Evilsizor and Sweeney (2015) 237 Cal. App.4th 1416 [189 Cal.Rptr.3d 1], reh’g denied (June 24, 2015), review denied (Sept. 9, 2015) Phrase “disturbing the peace of the other party” in injunction provision of the Domestic Violence Prevention Act (DVPA) includes destroying the mental or emotional calm of a former spouse by accessing, reading and publicly disclosing her confidential e-mails. Cal. Fam. Code § 6320. In re Marriage of Evilsizor and Sweeney (2015) 237 Cal.App.4th 1416 [189 Cal. Rptr.3d 1], reh’g denied (June 24, 2015), review denied (Sept. 9, 2015) Husband’s actions in releasing and threatening to release personal data downloaded from wife’s cell phone constituted “disturbing the peace of the other party” and thus “abuse” which warranted restraining order under the Domestic Violence Prevention Act (DVPA). Cal. Fam. Code §§ 6218(a), 6300, 6320(a). In re Marriage of Evilsizor and Sweeney (2015) 237 Cal.App.4th 1416 [189 Cal. Rptr.3d 1], reh’g denied (June 24, 2015), review denied (Sept. 9, 2015) In Evilsizor, Ms. Evilsizor testified that it had been “incredibly incredibly difficult to deal with” the dissemination of her personal information, stating, “I have sleepless nights. I’m sick to my stomach. My friends are mad at me, embarrassed as if I let him. I didn’t know he was even doing any of this. My parents are upset, you know. Why did I marry him? I didn’t know that things were going—I didn’t know. Yeah. It’s been incredibly challenging to live with.” She further testified that she had suffered shock and embarrassment and feared for her safety because of the disclosure. Evilsizor also was concerned about Sweeney’s threats to reveal information to the Internal Revenue Service about “things [she] didn’t do.” The court concluded
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The importance of an immigration… PAGE C1 t
Telephone: (800) 795-8009
Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Manila. For more Information please call (800) 7958009 or visit www.rreeves.com.
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.
cant decisions that a person will E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. make in their lifetime. *** ***
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Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights Atty. C. Joe SAyAS, Jr. Q: MY job title is “manager.” I work at least 10 hours per day, 6 to 7 days per week. While I supervise a few employees, I mostly do the same tasks they do. I cannot hire or fire anyone. My employer insists that since I am salaried and paid double the hourly minimum wage, I am correctly exempt from overtime pay. Is it right that just because I am paid twice the minimum hourly wage, I shouldn’t be paid overtime? A: Unless you are employed in an executive, administrative, or professional capacity, California law requires that all hours worked beyond 8 in a day or over 40 in a week be paid at 1.5 times your regular rate of pay. All hours worked beyond 12 in a day must be paid at twice your regular rate of pay. Some employers misclassify their employees as “exempt,” make them regularly work more than 8 hours per day, and pay them a flat rate salary, in the mistaken belief that by doing so, they do not have to pay the employees overtime. But California law strictly applies the “executive,” “managerial,” and “professional” exemptions. An employee’s true exempt status is not determined by fancy titles or the employer’s arbitrary categorization. True exempt status is determined primarily by an employee’s duties. For example, executives or managers must perform managerial, not merely ministerial,
To Live With Faith reverend rodel G. BAlAGtAS “WHY do we hear all this stuff about the Trinity?” The question burst from a man in the audience of a talk of mine. “Why can’t we just be good to each other and go to church? I answered, “Because.” “Because the Triune God is not some kind of brainy speculation by scholars. It is simply the way we experience God in this world. Christian living is the Trinity in action” — John Foley, S.J. The above quote from Fr. John Foley, S.J. fits well into our celebration of Trinity Sunday. Indeed, the Trinity is not just a dogma that we believe and fight for; it’s God’s action in the world. In the words of St. Paul in his Letter to the Romans, it is “the love of God poured into our hearts through the Holy
Community Journal
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‘Salaried’ employees may still Attorney Devin Connolly of Reeves Miller have a right to overtime pay Zhang & Diza talks about why he loves (California overtime law is still assisting Filipinos with their immigration needs superior to new federal overtime law) duties. These duties include managing the business, hiring, firing, and disciplining employees, deciding on employee salaries and wages, and creating work policies and procedures. These duties must take up more than 50% of their work time. If, for example, managers work 10-hour days, they must spend more than 5 hours per day on managerial work. And yes, among other things, the manager must be paid at least twice the state’s minimum wage for full-time employment. Misclassification of non-exempt employees is widespread. The situation is particularly challenging for employees who are covered by federal law under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Under the FLSA, professional and managerial employees are excluded from overtime pay requirements if they pass certain “duties tests” or if they make more than the salary threshold, regardless of their work duties. The salary threshold is $455 per week (or $23,660 per year). This means if employees have a weekly salary of more than $455, then they do not have to be paid overtime. This salary threshold is below the poverty line for a family of four. This week, President Obama signed a new law updating the federal overtime laws. On December 1, 2016, one of the most important feature of the new federal overtime rules will take effect: The salary threshold has
been increased from $455/week to $913 (or $47,476 per year). This means that employees who earn less than $913 per week (or less than $47,476 per year) must be paid overtime of time and a half if they work more than 40 hours per week. Unfortunately, the new federal law has not changed the definition of the term “primary duty.” This term is used in regulations to determine if a worker’s duties are eligible to be overtime exempt. Prior to 2004, ‘primary duty’ meant exempt work performed more than 50% of the time. In 2004, this 50% requirement was removed, creating a loophole that allowed a worker to be exempt even if he or she only spends a few hours a week supervising or doing other exempt duties. The loophole is still in place. Fortunately, employees who work in California continue to be protected under California’s more protective overtime laws. *** 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 selected as Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine, and is a member of the Million Dollar-Advocates Forum. (Advertising Supplement)
The actions of the Trinity in the world Spirit that has been given to us. (Rom 5:5)” Now that these thoughts are relevant and meaningful to us in these times when many people challenge us—politicians and citizens, church leaders and followers—to live authentic Christian lives. Many people now are not willing to put up with hypocrisy and dishonesty in government and church affairs. They’re pleading for transparency, truthfulness, and integrity in a society that is ridden with corruption and greed. They’re tired of false promises; they want real actions and evidence of charity, inclusion, and compassion. Their voices are God’s voice— the groaning of the Holy Spirit in our lives—that prick our consciences to fight against injustice, poverty, crime, inefficiency, indifference and all forms of evil
and degradation. It is no wonder that many people use the social media to express their discontent and disapproval of the ways leaders govern our nations and churches. Now it’s up to our leaders to listen to their voices. Indeed, should they not take them as voices from God? If we believe that the Trinity is about the union of love between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—a love that should penetrate our lives-then we must listen to the voices of our people so that we can imbue the world with the same Trinitarian love. If indeed, the voices of the people have been heard, those who have been voted and trusted to take leadership in government and church must be made accountable to the much-need-
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Rescinding removal/deportation order to allow for adjustment of status WE have all heard the popular saying, “Timing is everything.” Unfortunately, this saying often adversely applies to those persons who have found an avenue from which to obtain a green card, only to be prohibited from doing so because he/ she has a prior removal/deportation order. A typical scenario involves a person who entered the US years ago on a B-2 tourist visa, overstayed, and was ordered removed by the Immigration Court. Fast forward to today, that person who was ordered removed finds true love and marries a US Citizen. Seemingly close to finally obtaining permanent resident status, he/she is precluded from doing so because of the prior removal/deportation order. What options does one have in such a case? A motion to reopen the removal/deportation proceedings and rescind the removal/deportation order can be filed in Immigration Court. If the motion to reopen the proceedings and rescind the removal/deportation order is successful, the alien can pursue whatever relief from removal/deportation that is available to him/her. For the scenario cited in the first paragraph, the relief would be adjustment of status to permanent resident via marriage to a US citizen spouse. The relief would be presented in Immigration Court, with the Immigration Judge to decide the merits of the adjustment of status application. Alternatively, if an agreement with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can be obtained to terminate the proceedings, a decision on the adjustment of status application can be made outside Immigration Court, by the USCIS. Generally, a motion to reopen removal/deportation proceedings must be filed within 90 days of the date of entry of the removal/deportation order. However, several bases upon which a motion to reopen may be filed past 90 days exist, and are discussed below. Under 8 CFR § 1003.23(b)(4), a motion to reopen can be filed at any time if notice of the proceedings was not received by the person subject to the removal/deportation order, and a removal/ deportation order was entered in his absence. Written notice of the time and place of removal proceedings must be given in person to the alien, or shall be given by certified mail to the alien or to the alien’s counsel of record. INA §242B(a)(2)(A). Further, written notice of the proceedings, if provided by certified mail, must be provided at the most recent address reported by the alien. Matter of Grijalva, Interim Decision 3246 (BIA 1995). The requirements for notice of removal/ deportation proceedings are strict, and careful analysis of a person’s immigration court file often results in finding evidence that DHS did not comply with required procedure, which can be the basis for reopening the removal/deportation proceeding. Further, the Immigration Judge has discretionary authority to reopen or reconsider cases on his or her own motion (“sua sponte”) at any time providing a valid basis can be shown. 8 CFR § 1003.23(b)(1). Careful analysis of not only the immigration court file, but also the specific facts and circumstances of the case is necessary to put forward a valid basis on which the Immigration Judge can rely to reopen the proceedings. Some bases upon which cases I have been able to reopen cases include improper section cited by the DHS attorney in the charging document, insufficient evidence presented by the DHS attorney in proving up the case against the alien, and hardship and humanitarian concerns. If you have a prior removal/deportation order which is preventing you from adjusting status, it is recommended that you consult with an experienced attorney to ascertain the bases upon which a motion to reopen can be filed. *** 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)
Attorney Connolly represents ATTORNEY Devin M. Connolclients in all areas of immigration ly is a senior partner in Reeves law. His cases include applying Miller Zhang & Diza’s Pasadena office. After being born and for permanent resident status raised in the San Fernando Val(green card) based on marriage ley, Attorney Connolly spent most or other family relationships, apof his 20s living in various parts plications for US citizenship, and of the United States and traveling requests for lawful immigration throughout the world. Despite status based on a person’s emthe opportunity to permanently ployment and professional skills live elsewhere, Attorney Connolly and abilities. happily returned to Los Angeles Attorney Connolly values his in 2007 following his graduation relationships with his clients. Affrom Loyola University Chicago ter helping them obtain a green School of Law. card or US citizenship, he wants Attorney Connolly began his to help them reunite with their career with Reeves Miller Zhang Atty. Devin M. Connolly family in the US. He also wants & Diza in 2009. He has since his clients to feel comfortable been made a partner of the firm and was recent- enough with him to entrust their beloved friends’ ly named Vice-President. Attorney Connolly and family members’ cases to him too. loves the opportunity to help his Filipino clients Finally, Attorney Connolly plans on spending with their immigration cases. He says that he the rest of his professional career practicing imwants to continue providing the best represen- migration law. He is a Certified Specialist in Imtation possible because of how passionately the migration and Nationality Law by the State Bar vast majority of his clients care about their cas- of California Board of Legal Specialization and es. He also admires and appreciates Filipinos’ he intends to continuing do the job he loves. strong family values. (Advertising Supplement)
Family Law Atty. EthElEnE F. SAlAS THROUGHOUT the years that I have practiced family law in the State of California, I have heard many ideas from clients as to how they think child support is calculated in the State of California. Unfortunately, some of their ideas are misinformed or not complete. Some feel that they are stuck with a low child support amount due to various circumstances such as the age of the child. Because of this miscalculation, they prefer to keep a low profile about the issue and not deal with the matter altogether. This becomes the disadvantage. Parents forego what they are entitled to by law. Allow me to explain how child support is calculated. First of all, child support is computed pursuant to a California Statute also known as “uniform guideline child support.” This mathematical computation calculates the appropriate level of support for a minor child. Numbers are plugged-in and
Calculating child support then a child support figure is calculated. Like many mathematical equations, many factors and figures are used to calculate child support. Gross earnings of both parties, medical insurance, union dues, mandatory retirement, and other supported minor children are just some of the factors that are plugged-in to this formula. It is simply not just the father’s income or the mother’s income, but both incomes and deductions are used to calculate child support. In the State of California, it is the duty of both parents to support the minor child. Moreover, child support is always modifiable. This means that either party can go back to court to open up the issue to ask for a decrease or an increase in the amount of the child support. In other words, it would be advantageous for the custodial parent (usually the mother) to go back to court ever so often so that an increase in child support will be granted by the court. On the other hand, if the non-custodial party (usually the father) loses their job or get a pay decrease, it would be advantageous for them to go back
to court and reduce the child support amount. Because child support is modifiable, the level of support will not be stagnant or the same as the child grows up. For example, income numbers used in 2010 will not have the same outcome as if used in 2016. Inflation is taken into consideration. The issue of child support could and should be planned out by both parties as the child grows up and as circumstances change. Because child support is modifiable, parents are better equipped to fashion an appropriate level of support that is beneficial for their children and at the same time, an order that caters to their own income. *** Ethelene F. Salas, Esq. is a practicing family law attorney. Ms. Salas is a Filipino-American born in the Philippines, raised in the United States, and speaks Tagalog fluently. The Law Offices of Ethelene F. Salas is located at two locations – the main office at 100 N. Barranca St., Suite 700, West Covina, CA 91791 and affiliated offices at 18000 Studebaker Road, Suite 700, Cerritos, CA 90703. To schedule an appointment with her, please call (626) 858-4646 or visit www.EFS-Law.com. (Advertising Supplement
C MAY 21-24, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
Debt Relief Atty. LAwrence yAng CLIENT is 52, still young by any standard. He has got it all together. He has no credit card debt or bank debt. He doesn’t own a house but owns a mobile home that he lives in with a fair market value of $45K. He’s pretty happy living in the camper because he can drive it anywhere he wants to when he feels like it. Last week he spent a week in Yosemite enjoying fresh air and nature’s beauty. The week before that, he spent a couple of days hunting rabbits in Arizona with his camper in tow. He still works as a commissioned salesman when he feels like working, grossing about $30K a year. He has a beautiful fiancée who loves him for who he is since he doesn’t really have much in his name in this world. So what kinds of financial problem can someone like this have? He made the mistake of acting as a guarantor on a commercial lease for his friend. His friend owns a business, which requires commercial space. The lease on the space is $20K monthly. It’s a five-year lease with three more years to go. His friend’s business was doing well until recently. You know how businesses go. You make money, breakeven or lose money. The first situation is the best. The second situation give you a fighting chance, after all, no money are being lost because the business is able to pay for all of its expenses. But the last situation sucks. Unless you have deep pockets, losing $10K a month means losing $60K in six months. You know what I mean. This deficit has to be financed by new capital from stockholders or from bank loans. Since you know its losing
Community Journal
Client seeks relief from $700K commercial lease Seniors seek relief from $80K and $28K credit cards money, you don’t want your own money at risk, so you apply for bank loans to transfer the risk to the banks. You tell the banks that the situation will change if this happens or that happens. But nothing happens; you just continue to lose money. When push comes to shove, and you see the writing on the wall, you might decide that its time to call it quits and shut down the business. Client is thinking that friend’s business is facing some headwinds that may eventually force his friend to shut it down. If the business is shut down, the commercial lease won’t be paid and guess who is holding the bag for the next three year’s lease of $720K? Fortunately for client he qualifies for a Chapter 7 wipe out of the $720K commercial lease guaranty. He will keep all his assets, including his mobile home, and his 2015 MB E 320. With this $720K liability out of the way and out of his life, client can become productive again, a beneficiary of the Chapter 7 fresh start. I understand that he plans to start a new life with his beautiful bride as soon as the court discharges his $720K personal guaranty liability. This potential liability for a quarter of a million dollars is what hounds client from the time he wakes up to the end of the day, every day. Now what kind of life is that when you have to worry about getting sued for $720K just because you signed a lousy guaranty to help your friend out? Not the good kind. It’s a bad kind of life and pretty soon, you have to decide if you want to face this problem squarely and get rid of it so you can get back to enjoy-
ing your life. God, the one True God, Yahweh, the God of Moses and Israel, of Abraham and Jacob, my God, who sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sins, because He loved us so, did not mean for us to live life under the burden of so much debt! Jesus said that He came that we may have life and have life more abundantly! And when I say Jesus Christ, I refer to the one and only Son of the one True God, I mean Jesus Christ, who is true God of true God, consubstantial with the Father, begotten, not made. Jesus, who came down from heaven, humbled Himself and became man, conceived by the Holy Spirit without human intervention, in the womb of our Blessed Mother Mary, to die for our sins on the cross, so we can have a chance to spend eternity with our God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and our loved ones, in paradise. I refer to our Lord and Savior, our redeemer, our shepherd, the prince of peace, the king of kings, the way, the truth and the light. I will discuss the cases of the seniors in the next article. “Therefore as sin came into the world through one man and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all men sinned…” — Romans 5:12 *** Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in bankruptcy, business, real estate and civil litigation and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 1000 S. Fremont Ave, Mailstop 58, Building A-1 Suite 1125, Alhambra, CA 91803. (Advertising Supplement)
The actions of the Trinity in the… PAGE C3 t
ed reforms. And as the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines has rightly said, the church will be “vigilant” collaborators with elected leaders and not improper meddlers in state affairs. Let’s respond the groaning of
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the Spirit within us. Let’s bring into action the life of the Trinity. Amen! *** 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 Immaculate 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.
FASHION FOR A CAUSE. Alpha Phi Omega Greater Los Angeles Alumni Association (APO-GLA) has joined the Miss Philippines-USA Organization and Assumption College Alumni Association in holding this year’s edition of “FASHION for a CAUSE,” now on its 6th year. APO-GLA is celebrating its 35th founding anniversary of fostering Leadership, Friendship and Service to the community at large. For this year’s edition of Fashion for a Cause, APO-GLA is raising funds for its project “Books For Tots,” where an elementary school in one of the remote or depressed areas in the Philippines will receive funds to purchase school supplies and textbooks for the students, who may not be able to afford to purchase them. Most of the time, students from these schools are forced to share reading materials and other school paraphernalia because of poverty. APO-GLA hopes to provide funding for these children’s educational needs, whose only dream is to go to school to better their lives and those of their families. APO-GLA is proud to be a part of this noble endeavor. FASHION FOR A CAUSE will be held on Sunday, May 22 at 12 p.m. at the Dream Wedding Banquet Hall at 3255 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90010. Tickets are priced at $50.00. Please call Precy Marte at (626) 484-0807 or Eric Serrano at (818) 434-3313.
Disclosure of text messages, e-mails, and…
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in the Evilsizor case that even if Sweeney legally obtained Evilsizor’s information, an issue left unresolved, it was authorized under the DVPA to enjoin the disclosure or threats of disclosure of the information to protect Evilsizor’s peace of mind. The court ordered Sweeney be “prohibited from using, delivering, copying, printing or disclosing the messages or content of [Evilsizor’s] text messages or e-mail messages or notes, or anything else downloaded from her phone or from what has been called the family computer except as otherwise authorized by the court.” Sweeney also was prohibited from trying to access or otherwise interfere with Evilsizor’s internet-service provider accounts or social-media accounts.
Text messages, E-mails, Social media, and other electronic communication has become a common and inseparable part of today’s lifestyle. Accessing, reading, and publicly disclosing electronic communication of an ex, spouse, or sgnificant other has profound effect in every divorce and family law case. A finding of domestic violence against a party can affect the rulings on custody and spousal support issues. If your divorce or family law matter involves your ex, spouse, or significant other downloading and disclosing confidential electronic communication, one has to consider taking appropriate action in the case to be protected from conduct which is regarded as abuse under the California domestic violence statute. ***
Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kureyeslaw@gmail.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, nonspecific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation. (Advertising Supplement)
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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 21-24, 2016
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C MAY 21-24, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL
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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • mAy 21-24, 2016
MARKETPLACE SHOWROOM
Immigration Corner
&
The June 2016 priority dates Nielsen: Asian-Americans flex consumer influence across regions
The Priority dates for the Philippines are as follows: Application Filing Date
Visa Issuance Date
September 1, 2005
December 22, 2004
Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ
FAMILY CATEGORY:
EACH month, the Visa Office of the State Department publishes, in the Visa Bulletin, the priority dates for that particular month, for the various family and employment based categories. A priority date is a person’s “place in line” for a visa, meaning immigrant visas (or green cards) would be available for persons whose priority date is earlier than the cut-off date listed below. If your priority date was “current,” but later retrogressed (or “moved backwards” and became unavailable) before your immigrant visa was issued (or before you adjusted status in the U.S.), you would have to wait until it becomes current again. Beginning last October 2015, the format of the Visa Bulletin changed, in that a new column was added, called the “Application Filing Date.” If a person’s priority date is earlier than the Application Filing Date, they can already file for adjustment of status and work authorization (provided they are otherwise eligible and USCIS indicates on its website it will use the Application Filing Date for that month). This could allow people to obtain work authorization much sooner than before, where they had to wait for the priority date to be current (in the Visa Issuance Date column) in order to both file for adjustment and be eligible for a green card. ***
First Preference
Unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens (over 21 years of age)
Second Preference
(2A) Spouse and minor children (below October 15, 21 years old) of green 2015 card holder
November 8, 2014
(2B) Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years old or older) of green card holder
January 1, 2006
June 1, 2005
Third Preference
married sons and daughters of US Citizens.
August 1, 1995 February 1, 1994
Fourth Preference
Brothers and sisters of US Citizens.
April 1, 1993
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.
Application Filing Date
LABOR CERTIFICATION: Third Preference
Professional/ Skilled Workers
Other Workers
Non-Skilled Workers
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)
Financial firms urged to sign up for US tax monitoring law by Prinz
MagtuLis Philstar.com
MANILA—A total of 250 onshore financial firms have so far registered with US tax authorities for the implementation of a US law requiring reports on American accounts, but the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said others still have time to do so. In an advisory on its website, BIR said the Foreign Account Tax Compliant Act (FATCA) would not be in force in the country until ratified by the Senate.
“If the IGA enters into force in September 2016, Philippine financial institutions should be able to transmit FATCA data for reportable accounts in 2014 and 2015,” the BIR said. The Philippines and the US signed in July last year the implementing rules of the intergovernmental agreement (IGA) for the execution of FATCA. FATCA is a law that requires global financial firms to exchange information on American bank PAGE D2
President-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s transition team includes Peter Laviña, Atty. Salvador Medialdea, Christopher Go, Leoncio Evasco (standing) and Carlos Dominguez. Not in photo and absent is Atty. Lorieto Ata. Inquirer.net photo by Nico Alconaba
Aquino economic team leader lauds Duterte’s 8-point agenda Purisima: Federalism thrust may better distribute growth benefits across country by Ben
o. de Vera Inquirer.net
Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima, who heads the Cabinet THE leader of the Aquino Economic Development Cluster, government’s economic team on also said a shift to federalism as Wednesday welcomed and lauded proposed by incoming President the incoming Duterte administra- Rodrigo Duterte, if implemented tion’s eight-point agenda to sustain property, would pave the way for the robust growth achieved during a more equitable sharing of the the past six years. PAGE D5
PNB Savings launches partnership with PLDT by Lawrence
agcaoiLi Philstar.com
MANILA—The thrift banking unit of taipan Lucio Tan launched yesterday the country’s first digital and mobile lending facility for Social Security System (SSS) pensioners in partnership with Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT).
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The new facility launched by PNB Savings Bank is powered by a platform called Lendr, developed by PLDT and the digital innovations unit Voyager Innovations of Smart Communications Inc. PNB Savings Bank president and chief executive officer Joven Hernandez said clients of the bank PAGE D2
Business Quote of the Week “If you hire only those people you understand, the company will never get people better than you are. Always remember that you often find outstanding people among those you don’t particularly like.” - Soichiro Honda, founder of Honda Motors
December 1, 1992
Visa Issuance Date
January 1, 2010
November 1, 2008
January 1, 2010
November 1, 2008
ASIAN AMERICAN POPULATION
US Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 2014 and 2009 American Community Survey PUMS File, One-year estimate
New report finds that Asian-Americans are expanding their geographic reach to the South and Midwest, exhibiting buying behaviors specific to cultures and influencing mainstream habits NEW YORK—Asian-Americans’ impact and influence are shifting and growing, according to Asian-Americans: Culturally Diverse and Expanding Their Footprint, a Nielsen report released today. Members of this diverse segment are starting businesses, creating jobs and contributing to the U.S. economy, with a current $825 billion in consumer buying power—which is expected to rise to $1.1 trillion by 2020. As the fastest-growing U.S. population segment with an expanding geographic footprint in the Midwest and South – beyond traditional im-
migrant enclaves in the West and Northeast – the Asian-American impact on consumer preferences is rippling across mainstream America, with far-reaching implications for brands and marketers. As part of Nielsen’s ongoing efforts to provide insights that help marketers better serve AsianAmerican consumers, the report highlights the different ways in which this particular segment is exerting cultural and economic influence on the US mainstream market today through a regional lens. PAGE D2
Marketplace
D may 21-24, 2016 • La WEEKEND aSIaN JOURNaL
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Easy ways for homeowners Smart franchise awaits Senate ok save energy and costs by Jess
Diaz Philstar.com
ReseaRch shows that asian americans are committed to improving the environment. From the home improvements they make to the cars they drive, asian americans are choosing to be green. according to the 2013 Nielsen asian american consumer Report, their energy conservation habits reflect how they are looking to protect and preserve what they have and build a solid future for their families. Below are some interesting facts from the report: • 90 percent of asian americans are willing to change energy usage to save money. • asian americans are twice as likely as the total population to own a hybrid or electric plugin vehicle. • 78 percent of asian americans are willing to change energy usage for environmental concerns. energy Upgrade california encourages homeowners to make energy efficiency part of their future home improvement plans. The energy Upgrade california home Upgrade program takes a holistic approach to saving energy by focusing on the
MaNILa—a bill extending the franchise of smart communications for another 25 years is awaiting final senate approval. according to a statement released by the house of Representatives, the senate approved Bill 5942 on second reading last Feb. 3 before congress adjourned for the four-month election campaign. The bill sponsored by sen. sergio Osmeña lll, still requires third-and-final-reading approval. smart is the country’s biggest mobile phone service provider. It is a subsidiary of telecommu-
nications giant Philippine Long Distance Telephone co. (PLDT). Its 25-year franchise was granted under Republic act No. 7294 enacted in March 1992. It will expire in March next year. If the outgoing 16th congress fails to extend the franchise of smart, its fate will lie with the incoming 17th congress, which will convene on July 25. Outgoing Isabela Rep. Giorgidi aggabao, who authored Bill 5942, said smart is a huge company whose business is vested with public interest. “We should not allow uncertainty to hang on its head. I am hoping that with a fresh mandate, smart could go full throttle to
upgrade its services, all for the benefit of the public,” he said. Ra 7294 allowed the PLDT subsidiary “to establish, install, maintain, lease and operate integrated telecommunications/computer/electronic services, and stations throughout the country for public domestic and international telecommunications, and for other purposes.” The house and the senate will resume their session on Monday. They will have two days to act on pending measures before convening as a canvassing board on Wednesday to tally the votes for president and vice president. The bill sponsored by Sen. Sergio Osmeña congress will end its third and lll, still requires third-and-final-reading last regular session on June 10. approval.
Nielsen: Asian-Americans flex consumer influence...
entire ecosystems of the home rather than on individual energy efficiency upgrades. here are three simple, easy steps to help homeowners kick-off the savings and cut back on energy costs in time for summer: • seal air leaks to reduce drafts and warm/cool air from escaping • Install energy efficient hot water pipes to reduce the amount of time it takes to heat water and reduce water wasting • Install a thermostatic shower control to shut off shower once water is warm so that you can save hot water for when you are ready to enter the shower For more energy saving tips and resources, or details about the home energy program, visit www. energyUpgradeca.org.
PAGE D1 “If marketers and companies want to be successful, it is imperative they develop growth strategies that account for asianamericans’ diverse ethnicities to better resonate with the cultural nuances of this unique multicultural community,” said Betty Lo, vice president, community alliances & consumer engagement, Nielsen. “This segment not only has culturally specific tastes and preferences, but also buying behaviors that are unique to geographic regions. In addition, Us census projections show that asian-americans are on track to become the largest immigrant group in the nation by 2055. as entrepreneurs, tech titans and digital content consumers, asianamericans’ cultural identities will play a unique role in impacting the
Us economy and marketplace.” “Nielsen has been a longtime partner to asian-american and Pacific Islander-serving organizations by providing culturally sensitive data about our multifaceted community,” said Nita song, cochair, Nielsen asian Pacific american external advisory council and President, IW Group. “Without these diverse insights, we would not be aware of the tremendous buying power and cultural influence that asian-americans have on the mainstream market, which is why it is so important to say ‘yes’ if the opportunity to participate as a Nielsen household arises.” Highlights of Asian-Americans: Culturally Diverse and Expanding Their Footprint include: Geographic Expansion • asian-americans are diverse,
hailing from over 40 countries of origin. The majority of recent asian immigrants migrated to large cities; 63 percent live in 15 Us cities. The top five destination metro areas for recent asian immigrants are New York-Newark-Jersey city, NY-NJ-Pa; Los angeles-Long Beach-anaheim, ca; san Francisco-Oakland-hayward, ca; Washington-arlingtonalexandria, D.c.-Va-MD; and san Jose-sunnyvale-santa clara, ca. • Between 2009 and 2014, immigration, relocations, and new births have led to a population increase of 33 percent (over 1.1million) in the south and 29 percent (538,000) in the Midwest. • The south saw the highest growth in asian-american buying power (43 percent) between 2010 and 2015 and is projected to continue to see the highest growth in the next five years. Entrepreneurial Economic Drivers • Of the 87 Us startup companies valued at over $1 billion with the potential to become publicly traded on the stock market, 19 were founded by asian-american immigrants. • In the Us census’ recently released survey of Business Owners, the number of asian-american-owned businesses grew by 24 percent between 2007 and 2012 and claimed the highest percent sales increase (38 percent) of any racial or ethnic group. • Of the 11.6 million asianamericans in the workforce, about 70 percent are employees of for-profit businesses, 12 percent are government employees, 7 percent work for nonprofits, and 9 percent are self-employed, while 1 percent are unemployed. Unique Culinary Tastemakers and Environmentally Sustainable Consumers
• seventy-nine percent of asian-americans agree they prefer cooking with fresh food rather than canned or frozen food. On average, asian-americans purchase 69 percent more fresh seafood, 72 percent purchase more fresh vegetables, and 29 percent purchase more fresh fruits than the general population. asian-american shoppers say they are more likely to buy and pay more for recyclable and eco-friendly products than the general population. • More and more consumers of other races and ethnicities are adopting asian-american cooking styles and habits. Items such as soy milk, seaweed, asian curries and many others are entering mainstream markets. Tech Titans and Content Consumers • Nearly half of asian-americans watching english TV also watch TV in an asian language (dual-language viewers). • asian-americans outpace the general population in ownership of all three major Internet personal devices: smartphones, household computers and tablets. Online purchasing sentiment outpaces the general market, as well. • asian-americans take the lead in using multimedia devices, averaging almost twice the minutes per day of the general population; they spend half the time on live TV as the general population. additionally, asian-american households have a much lower rate of DVR usage (43 percent) than the general population (62 percent). sixty-eight percent of asian-american households have subscription video on demand (sVOD) services, a 21 percent higher rate than the general population.
Financial firms urged to sign... PAGE D1 and financial accounts with the Us Internal Revenue service to crackdown on tax evaders. The law aims to monitor americans who may have hidden their wealth in other countries to avoid paying taxes. Non-compliant firms will be penalized. according to central bank data, there were a total of 6,482 banks and non-bank financial institutions in the country as of the third quarter of last year. This is based on the number of their existing head offices. This does not include other entities not supervised by the Bangko sentral ng Pilipinas (BsP) such as investment firms. The BsP has not responded for comment as of press time. Failure to comply on FaTca reportorial requirements risks a 30-percent tax on firms’ Us-sourced income. “even if it (FaTca) is not yet
in force, I am sure those banks are already preparing for compliance,” Internal Revenue commissioner Kim henares said in a phone interview. “Besides, the delay we are talking about here is only on the reports they have to submit to the BIR, not to the IRs,” she added. according to IGa’s implementing rules, Us IRs has the power request information from the local financial firms through the BIR. If the information provided did not satisfy Us tax authorities, they also have the prerogative to demand more information and the company concerned is given 18 months to comply. “The notice should also indicate that if the significant noncompliance is not cured within 18 months..., the relevant reporting Philippine financial institution... may therefore be subject to 30percent withholding (tax),” the rules stated.
PNB Savings launches partnership...
PAGE D1 and Philippine National Bank who are also pensioners of sss could utilize the new facility to apply for loans anytime, anywhere, using only their mobile phones or laptop devices. “It has always been our thrust to put our customers first, and enabling our pensioners to take out a loan through Lendr echoes our commitment to making things simple and hassle-free for them,” hernandez said. For his part, Voyager Innovations president and chief executive officer Orlando Vea said the benefits of FINTQ’s digital platforms like Lendr are best reaped by hitherto-marginalized segments like pensioners who don’t have access to financial services via traditional means. “Because Lendr can be accessed by anyone at any time and wherever they may be, pensionerclients of PNB and PNB savings Bank no longer have to leave their homes in order to apply for a loan. all they need is an Internet connection,” Vea added. By making sss pension loans available via mobile and online applications, PNB and PNB savings Bank are making the process convenient and hassle-free for its pensioner-clientele, most of whom may have difficulty reaching traditional bank networks.
sss Pensioners with accounts at PNB and PNB savings Bank are encouraged to proceed to their branch of account and update their personal information in order to receive timely updates regarding the service. Lito Villanueva, president and chief executive officer at FINTQ, said Lendr was designed to be very user-friendly across various demographics and accessible from a wide range of devices, offering the convenience of quick and hassle-free loans applications to customers. “We are encouraged by efforts of banks like PNB and PNB savings Bank that are taking these first steps in digitally-enabling their customers in order to serve them better.” To date, a total of 25 banks and financial institutions have partnered with Lendr. These include china Bank savings for auto loans and PNB savings Bank for sss pension loans. It has also partnered with Bank of Makati, cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank, Luzon Development Bank, Philippine Business Bank, Producers Bank, Rural Bank of camalig, sun savings Bank, and UcPB savings Bank to significantly expand the reach of their financial products and provide convenient, hassle-free loans application to their customers include.
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Longo Toyota delivers world class experience BEING the premiere Toyota retailer in the nation, Longo Toyota aims to deliver a truly world-class experience to our guests on every transaction, everyday. It all starts with our friendly and welcoming staff, a clean and modern environment, and a wide range of services to make your visit pleasant and convenient. Here are some of our key amenities at Longo Toyota: Auto Club of Southern California (AAA) In November 1999, Longo Toyota became the first automotive dealership in the US to have the Auto Club on its premises. For 14 long years, our Auto Club branch has served countless satisfied Longo customers with its wide array of services Today, our on-site branch offers DMV services, airline, car and hotel reservations, discounted movie and local attraction tickets, membership processing, OnBoard Teen Safe Driver Program, and more. Sign up at our Longo Toyota branch and get $13 off the original membership application price. Located in our new car showroom, our AAA branch is open Mondays thru Saturdays, from 11am to 7pm. Verizon Wireless Premium Retailer Longo Lexus is the first car dealership in the US to provide Verizon Wireless and Verizon Wireless Neighborhood services on-site. Our Verizon branch offers the latest in telecommunications, mobile devices, accessories and services. We also offer complimentary cellphone charging stations for our customers. Our Verizon retailer is located inside our parts retail center. Our Wireless Playground is open Monday-Friday, 7am7pm; Saturday, 7am-5:30pm; and Sunday, 8-4pm. Please call (888) 623-2133 for more information. Starbucks and Subway While waiting for your car to come out of our car-care service lines, you can enjoy a quick bite at Subway or a nice refreshing drink at Starbucks. We offer healthy dining options with Subway’s wide variety of sandwiches, salads, and wraps.
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If you’re thirsty and you’re looking for that quick coffee fix, you can grab a refreshing Hazelnut Macchiato or a smooth Caramel Frappuccino at Starbucks. Offering only the finest coffee specialties, teas, juices, and assortment of pastries, there’s something for everybody at our on-site Starbucks branch. Both our Subway and Starbucks branches are available for catering services. Enterprise Rent-A-Car Longo Toyota also has two Enterprise Rent-A-Car offices on its premises. One is located adjacent to the Service Drive in the Pre-Owned Vehicle Showroom, and the other is in the Collision Repair Center. Customers are welcome to utilize the Enterprise rental services, regardless of whether or not they leave their vehicle in Longo for any car service. Complimentary Vehicle Delivery Service Longo Toyota also offer complimentary vehicle delivery service. Our delivery service is available 6 days a week, Monday thru Saturday, anywhere within a 60-mile radius of Longo Toyota. Longo Toyota Parts and Accessories Department You can also shop at the Longo Toyota Parts and Accessories Department, which carries a wide selection of genuine Toyota parts and accessories for your vehicle. With thousands of parts and accessories in stock, we definitely have whatever it is you’re looking for. Our boutique also carries a selection of Ray-Ban and Oakley sunglasses, women’s and
men’s apparel, and so much more. Shuttle Service For your convenience, Longo Toyota offers complimentary shuttle service while your vehicles are being serviced. Our shuttles can take you to virtually anywhere within a 15-mile radius of Longo Toyota – be it your home, work, the mall, or even the parlor! Anywhere! An engaging stay While we understand that our customer’s time is precious, we realize that many of them may need Internet connectivity at all times. As such we are more than happy to provide FREE WiFi throughout our facility, and FREE use of our great business center. In our business center, we provide a quiet setting where our guests can work on our computers or on their own laptops. We also provide free use of an iPad for Longo guests who are waiting for their vehicles. Our Guest Check-in representative will be more than happy to arrange this for you. If you decide to bring the kids to the dealership, boredom will never be a problem. We also offer a variety of video games and DVDs just for kids so that they can also enjoy their visit to Longo Toyota. For more information on our Longo Toyota Guest Services, please log on to http://www. longotoyota.com/dealership/ amenities.htm. Longo Toyota is located at 3534 North Peck Road, El Monte, CA 91731. Call (800) 617-4516 to set up your appointment. 8[m\ik`j`e^ Jlggc\d\ek
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Keyes Toyota: Your top car dealership Gov’t transition no effect on PH rating, says Moody’s choice in San Fernando Valley by Mayvelin
U. Caraballo Manilatimes.net
For folks living in the San Fernando Valley, it can be quite easy or quite difficult in picking the car dealership where you will buy your next car from. With a whole host of dealerships lining up the valley, customers can easily get lost in the woods, trying to pick out the dealership that’s right for them. With regards to Toyota cars, one particular dealership comes to mind when it comes to convenience, comfort, excellence, and customer satisfaction: Keyes Toyota. For over half a century, Keyes Toyota has served the San Fernando Valley, addressing all the automotive needs of Angelenos across 13 car franchises. With dealerships located conveniently near major residential hubs, customers are assured of a supreme buying experience in the pleasant and comfortable show rooms at Keyes dealerships! With the widest selections of automobiles across Los Angeles, Keyes can help you find the car of your dreams. Family owned and operated, Keyes dealerships are all committed to providing the most excellent service available to ensure customer satisfaction. Factory-trained technicians and sales professionals are all ready to address your automotive needs. At times, prospective buyers may have difficulties in securing approvals for car financing. Thankfully, Keyes Toyota has a number of pro-
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mos and programs to help first time buyers, new graduates, military veterans, and all other clients facing financial difficulties. For many Filipinos, Toyotas are really their automobiles of choice for the family. Toyota’s reliable, dependable, and economical cars perfectly suit the needs of the Filipino family. Pinoys, who prioritize the family’s comfort above everything else, can find the right van or SUV that can comfortably seat five to seven passengers. According to Keyes Toyota, any car you choose is sure to be a gas saver, perfect for those who value car economy above all else. Aside from that, customers can rest easy, knowing that they are covered with Toyota Care. Factory-trained Toyota technicians will help fulfill your maintenance obligations and help improve your Toyota’s value and performance. Toyota Care
will keep track of your maintenance history, and will also deliver timely reminders for your scheduled maintenance. rene Pascual, another sales professional for Keyes Toyota, he personally loves Toyota cars because of their wide variety of car models—from sedans, vans, trucks, pickups, and hybrids. In serving the Filipino community, Pascual also finds that having this wide selection of cars gives the Filipino family the chance of finding the right car to match their comfort and budget. Pascual fluently speaks Tagalog, Cebuano, and Ilonggo. Popular Toyota models among Pinoys include the Corolla, Camry, Sienna, and the Prius. However, the Camry is one of the most recommended car for Pinoy buyers. The Camry is loaded with features that Filipinos look for in their cars: spacious seating, up-to-date technology, and overall performance. The Filipino Keyes Connection of rene Pascual and Sammy Estrella are all committed to excellence and customer satisfaction. With the full support of Keyes General Sales Manager Sam Kassis, Boni, rene and Sammy can ensure that the Pinoy family will get the best deals at Keyes Toyota. Give them a call today at (800) 575-1153 or better yet visit them at 5855 Van Nuys Blvd. in Van Nuys.
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DEBT watcher Moody’s Investors Service has joined other international credit ratings agencies in saying that the political transition in the Philippines is unlikely to have an immediate effect on the country’s Baa2 investment grade rating and stable outlook. “The political transition is unlikely to have an immediate effect on the credit factors that support the Philippines’ Baa2 ratings and stable outlook,” it said in a report released Thursday, May 19, which echoed earlier statements from Standard and Poor’s and Fitch Ratings. Under the six-year term of outgoing President Benigno Aquino III that started in June 2010, the sovereign credit rating has risen four notches to Baa2 from Ba3, reflecting a pickup in economic growth, greater price stability, fiscal and debt consolidation, and a robust
external payments position. Moody’s believes that presumptive President Rodrigo Duterte will form a cabinet and develop more granular economic and fiscal strategies in a benign economic context. Nevertheless, it clarified that credit implications of the next administration’s future policies will only become apparent over the coming weeks and months. “While Mr. Duterte’s comments in the run-up to the election imply a degree of unpredictability regarding domestic security issues, human rights, and foreign policy, our baseline assumption is that there will be broad policy continuity as it relates to fiscal and economic management,” it pointed out. The credit rater expects that growth will remain relatively robust, and that the central bank will maintain its focus on sustaining macroeconomic and financial stability.
“Unlike many other more commodity dependent emerging markets, the Philippines has not experienced a negative terms of trade shock from the turn in commodity prices since 2014,” it said. In contrast, lower prices for energy and food imports have stimulated private consumption, which reached a multi-year high in 2015, it noted. At the same time, Moody’s said rapidly growing services exports and healthy domestic demand have provided resiliency to offset negative spillovers from the slowing of the Chinese economy. In terms of political stability, the debt watcher said that if Duterte is able to bring about a definitive resolution to the insurgency in the Mindanao region, “it would boost growth and investment in what is one of the poorest—although resource-rich—parts of the country.”
Aquino economic team leader... PAGE D1 benefits of economic growth across the country. Purisima said the Department of Finance (DOF)—part of the Presidential Transition Committee formed by President Aquino to ensure a smooth transfer of power to Duterte—has long been prepared to turn over its transition report to the next administration. “The agencies under the DOF have been preparing for the past three months because we really want it to be a smooth transition. Once incoming [Finance] secretary [Carlos “Sonny”] Dominguez [III] confirms that it is he, we’ll reach out to him and give them an office, so that they have access to all our information when they hit the ground running,” Purisima said on the sidelines of the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines’ general membership meeting. Duterte had said he was eyeing Dominguez to head the DOF—the agency on top of the country’s fiscal affairs—and lead his economic team. The Davao businessman, who was finance head during Duterte’s campaign, served in the Cabinet of former Presidents Corazon C. Aquino and Fidel V. Ramos. For Purisima, Dominguez is a very qualified finance chief. “For me, the most important qualification in my job is having the ear of the president. That’s why I’m happy—I’m not trying to push [Dominguez] because he’s not confirmed but if it is he, then the
three things that I look for a Finance secretary—ear of the president is the most important, knowledge of how government works, and knowledge of how business works—he has all three. So we’re happy he’s very qualified.” Purisima said he would not suggest any policy thrust to President Duterte’s economic team and incoming DOF secretary. “It’s not my position to give recommendations. We share our experience, we tell them these are the pending items, these are the initiatives. [But] the incoming administration has their agenda,” he noted. The finance chief nonetheless said he was “very encouraged by the eight-point economic agenda that [Duterte’s team] put forward.” “It hits the key issues directly,” Purisima said of the economic agenda, under which the following would be prioritized to boost the economy: accelerating infrastructure spending; addressing land administration and management; attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) flows; expanding and improving the conditional cash transfer program; improving government revenue collection efforts; making tax administration more progressive; modernizing the agriculture sector; and strengthening the basic education system. More ‘growth engines’ “I’m also optimistic about some of the bigger ideas that incoming President Duterte is proposing,” Purisima added. “For example, the federal form
Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima
[of government], if done properly and so long that it doesn’t destruct the other [government] activities, then it can encourage better allocation of resources across the country,” according to Purisima. “Imagine if as a result of that we create five Metro Manilas. I’m sure Davao will be the next, and Cebu—you can have three strong engines for growth,” the finance chief said. “And the good thing about Davao and having a President from Mindanao is it will make the BIMPEAGA a reality,” Purisima added, referring to the Brunei DarussalamIndonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area initiative launched in 1994. “For a long time it’s been an idea and no one has really focused on it. Since it’s his backyard, if [BIMPEAGA] happens, it will really make Asean integration accelerate and become a reality, because integration doesn’t happen if you don’t integrate in the seams,” Purisima noted.
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