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Volume 28 - No. 34 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages
A U G U S T 3 1 - S E P T E MBE R 6 , 2 0 1 7
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Next N. Korean missile launch to target Guam, Trump says talking is not the answer by RAE
President Donald J. Trump meets U.S. Marines during his visit to Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) in Yuma, Ariz. last Aug. 22. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Christian Cachola
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USA
FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
Over 800,000 DACA recipients in fear of deportation IN less than a month, many young immigrants will find out where their future in the United States lies, as President Donald Trump makes a decision on whether or not to continue protecting them from deportation. Through an executive action signed by Obama in August 2012, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) has protected over 800,000 young people who were brought to the United States illegally, from being deported. The program gives two important things — protection from deportation, and a work permit. Both expire after two years and are subject to renewal. Trump was strongly vocal about rescinding Obama’s executive actions during the campaign trail, but to many people’s surprise, he also showed moments of solicitude towards DREAMers. “We’re going to work something out that’s going to make people happy and proud,” he said in a Time magazine interview where he was Person of the Year. “They got brought here at a very young age, they’ve worked here, they’ve gone to school here. Some were good students. Some have
ANN VARONA AJPress
NORTH Korea said on Wednesday, August 30, that its test launch of a missile over Japan was a prelude to future military actions towards the American territory of Guam. President Donald Trump said talking is not an option.
On Wednesday morning, Trump tweeted, “The U.S. has been talking to North Korea, and paying them extortion money, for 25 years. Talking is not the answer.” The test was an alarming move as North Korea had already threatened to fire four missiles near Guam earlier this month — on August 8, Trump threat-
ened to unleash “fire and fury” on the hermit kingdom. A statement by North Korea’s KCNA described the missile launch on Tuesday, Aug. 29, as “the first step of the military operation in the Pacific and a meaningful prelude to containing Guam.” The statement further described
Guam as an “advanced base of invasion” and said North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un plans on “conducting more ballistic rocket launching drills with the Pacific as a target in the future.” The intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) that flew over the island of
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De Venecia’s help in easing Korean tensions sought FORMER Nepal Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal has asked former Philippine Speaker Jose de Venecia and the South Korean founder of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon to “help contribute efforts to reduce tension in the war-threatened Korean Peninsula”, acknowledging the goodwill they have earlier built in North Korea. Jose de Venecia, Special Envoy for The leader of the Inter-Cultural Dialogue Marxist Wing of the Nepal Communist Party, Nepal also lauded the former Chairman of the Universal Peace Federation, the late Dr. Sun Myung Moon and his widow, Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon for earlier donating a hotel and automobile factory in Pyongyang to the North Korean government and people. Just back from a successful visit to the Demo-
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FROM MARAWI TO MALACAÑANG. President Rodrigo Duterte poses with children from Marawi City who joined an educational tour calling for a peaceful environment for children. In his short message, the President promised the displaced children of Marawi that he would rebuild the strifetorn city and give them hope again for a better life in the once peaceful Islamic area. Malacañang photo
Duterte: ‘Marcoses willing Palace: Conditions for to return ill-gotten wealth’ Callamard visit remain by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
THE family of former President
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THE conditions previously set for the visit of United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial Executions Agnes Callamard to the Philippines had not changed, Malacañang clarified on Tuesday, August 29. Palace spokesman Ernesto Abella issued the statement after Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte invited Callamard anew An employee of the Presidential Commission on Good Government holds to the country and investigate the a set of jewelry from the so-called Hawaii Collection, one of the three sets of the Marcos jewelry, during appraisal. The Hawaii Collection was alleged summary killings and huseized by the U.S. Bureau of Customs upon the Marcos family’s arrival in man rights abuses in connection Hawaii in 1986 and is now under the custody of the Philippine Commission with the government’s campaign Inquirer.net photo against illegal drugs. on Good Government or PCGG.
willingness to return their alleged illgotten wealth back to government, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said on Tuesday, August 29. Citing an unnamed spokesman, Duterte claimed that the family is LAS VEGAS willing to “open everything” and — After defeating return the wealth—including a few Conor McGregor gold bars—which were accumulated via a technical during the two-decade rule of the knockout in the late dictator. tenth round of their “I won’t name the spokesman… match on Sunday, the family said they will open everyAugust 27, Floyd u PAGE A2 Mayweather Jr. said he’s retiring “for sure.” Now with a 50Floyd Mayweather Jr. displays 0 for most wins the Money Belt, a special belt without a loss or created by the World Boxing draw, Mayweather Organization for his fight against said his fight with Conor McGregor on Saturday, Aug. the one of the big26. Photo by Jhay Oh Otamias gest stars of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) was his last. “This was my last fight,” the 40-year-old Mayweather said during the post-match interview. “For sure. Tonight was my last fight. Tonight I chose the right dance partner to dance with.” Manny Pacquiao, who lost to Mayweather in their match last year, has expressed interest to settle a score with the undefeated boxer. Their rematch, however, seems unlikely to happy as Bobby Teo, Department of Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo Teo, former City of Carson Mayweather reaffirmed his retirement. Commissioner Tancredo Guray, Jr., and Chona Galvez at a recent reception for the Teos’
Mayweather retiring ‘for sure’ after McGregor fight
UN Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial Executions Agnes Callamard Inquirer.net photo
“I’m sure that the president is very clear about the conditionalities. And if she meets up, then it will have to be according to those
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The Asian Journal comes full circle Supreme Court forms team to with new multimedia platforms
examine ballots in Marcos vs Robredo vice pres. election protest
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visit in LA.
AJPress photo by Noel Ty
by
DEE MANDIGMA
26 years; six weekly community newspapers; 208 million copies; a travel magazine distributed across 60 countries and 101 cities worldwide to date—who would have thought that this once-weekly community newspaper in Los Angeles would grow into one of the biggest Filipino-American publishing firms in America today? Christina Oriel, Editor-in-Chief for online, LA and Las Vegas, vividly recalls the Asian Journal’s (AJ) humble beginnings. “From a small staff back in 1991, at a
time when the Filipino-American population in America was just a little over a million, AJ is now home to top caliber writers, artists, and creative people serving the second largest Asian-American group in the U.S.,” she proudly reminisced. “The Asian Journal founded by my father, Roger Lagmay Oriel, and mother, Cora Macabagdal Oriel, has since been true to its core value of empowering, informing Filipinos living in America, and connecting them back to their local communities, re-
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De Venecia’s help in easing Korean... PAGE A1 cratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), Nepal and his colleague, senior parliamentarian Ek Nath Dhakal, who is married to a Filipina, urged an Asian-American group to visit Pyongyang to push efforts to diminish the dangerous crisis on both sides of the 38th Parallel. They held meetings with the President of the Presidium of the
Supreme People’s Assembly Kim Yong Nam and the Vice-Chairman of the Korean Workers Party Committee Ri Sur Yong and advocated quiet diplomacy among Asian and North Korea’s leaders and parliamentarians, people-to-people and businessmen’s visits to help “end the continuously threatening Korean crisis,” with its potential to lead to atomic war. Earlier, de Venecia, Chairman
From The FronT Page
of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) and of the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP), former Premier Nepal and the UPF, headed by its American President Thomas Walsh and its regional head, Nepal Parliamentarian Ek Nath Dhakal proposed the Asian-American peace mission in “Track 2 diplomacy” to Pyongyang. De Venecia, Nepal and Dhakal are members of the Seoul and Manila-based ICAPP, with its more than 300 ruling, opposition and independent political parties in Asia which includes North Korea’s lone political organization, the Korean Workers Party (KWP). They hoped to meet with the North’s KWP. De Venecia urged direct talks once and for all among the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) President Kim Jong Un, South Korean President Moon Jae-in, and possibly U.S. President Donald Trump, who earlier hinted he could attend such a meeting. Their ministers later could be joined by representatives of China, Russia and Japan, which are all members of long-suspended 5-Nation Talks on the Korean issue, he said. De Venecia pointed out “there is no substitute for direct talks between South Korea and North Korea,” assisted by the U.S. and China, as needed. Nepal pointed out since the Korean War ended in 1953 with the Korean Armstice that permanently severed Korea at the waist in the 38th Parallel but which was not a formal peace treaty, tensions, incidents and mobilizations for war have continued to bedevil the Korean peninsula. In 1989, de Venecia, as Chairman of the Philippine House Foreign Relations Committee, met with North Korean founder and President Kim Il Sung in Pyongyang, which led to Philippine-North Korean diplomatic relations and an assurance in writing by the North Korean leader not to support the Philippine New People’s Army (NPA), which was well-received by then President Corazon Aquino and then Foreign Secretary Raul Manglapus. A year later, Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party leader Kanemaru visited Pyongyang, followed later by the former U.S. President Jimmy Carter.
Sailors assigned to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) connect Landing Craft Utility 1651, assigned to Naval Beach Unit 7, for a stern-gate marriage in the ship’s well deck. Ashland is operating in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to enhance partnerships and be a ready-response force for any type of contingency. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonathan Clay
Next N. Korean missile launch... PAGE A1
Hokkaido in Japan and into the north Pacific Ocean, was said to be a Hwasong-12, the same missile Kim had threatened to use on Guam. Despite U.N. sanctions, North Korea has conducted many ballistic missile tests. Tuesday’s launch was the 14th this year. Responses to the launch In a statement on Tuesday, Trump said, ”Threatening and destabilizing actions only increase the North Korean regime’s isolation in the region and among the nations of the world. All options are on the table.” Trump’s Wednesday morning tweet suggested that talking may not be an option, but in a meeting that same day with South Korea’s defense minister, U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis told reporters at the Pentagon that they are “never out of diplomatic solutions.” The United Nations Security Council also condemned the firing on Tuesday and demanded Pyongyang end all missile tests, calling the launch an “outra-
geous” threat. Earlier this month, the Security Council unanimously imposed sanctions on North Korea after the country staged two long-range missile launches in July. Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called the launch over Hokkaido, “an unprecedented, serious, and grave threat to Japan.” North Korean missiles have flown twice over Japan since 1998, but the latest was supposedly the first with ability of carrying a nuclear weapon. Citizens were urged to “evacuate to sturdy building or basement.” Closest in proximity is South Korea who reportedly responded to the launch by dropping eight 2,000 pound MK 84 bombs over a simulated target at Taebaek Pilsung Firing Range, a South Korean training ground. Presidential spokesman Yoon Young-chan said at a press conference that South Korean President Moon Jae-in wanted “to showcase a strong punishment capability against the North.” According to the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, a test intercept
of a medium range ballistic missile was conducted off the coast of Hawaii early Wednesday. Guam as target As one of the closest American territories to Asia, and the closest to North Korea, Guam has long been a North Korean target in regards to U.S. conflicts — a threat made prior to the latest launch was in 2013. The island is home to two strategically important bases: the Andersen Air Force Base in the north, and the Naval Base Guam in the south. The territory was ceded to the U.S. in 1898 by Spain, and has been under the U.S. continuously since 1944, after being captured by the Japanese in 1941. The population is over 160,000 with the number of U.S. troops said to be 7,000. Filipinos are the second highest ethnic group at 26.3 percent of the population — native Chamorros being the highest at 37.3 percent. Respectively, Filipino languages are the second most spoken at 21.2 percent, following English at 43.6 percent according to the CIA World Factbook. n
Duterte: ‘Marcoses willing to return... PAGE A1 thing and hopefully return those found [by the PCGG that should be returned to the Philippine government],” Duterte said during the oathtaking of new appointees at Malacañang. He added, “They said, we are [willing] to open [the books] and bring it [ill-gotten wealth] back, including a few gold bars. Just a few [gold bars], but they will return it.” Duterte said he would create a team to negotiate and facilitate the turnover of the wealth. He pointed out that he will accept any explanations from the Marco-
ses “whether or not it is true.” He also revealed that back channel talks between the government and the political family are ongoing. The president, however, could not say how much would be returned to the government. As of last year, the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) was able to recover $4 billion of ill-gotten wealth acquired by Marcos and his cronies. The agency was created in 1986 to go after an estimated $10 billion-worth of cash and assets reportedly plundered by the Marcoses.
The president said he initially wanted to abolish the PCGG but decided not to do so, saying he would possibly create a new office to deal with graft and corruption in the government. “[The] PCGG is focused on the Marcos wealth. I wanted to abolish it but people might say I abolished it as it was on the verge of discovering something,” the president remarked. He went on to say, “I [will] just name it good government but there is already an existing one. Maybe an anti-graft [agency] and I am looking for somebody to handle.”
Palace: Conditions for Callamard visit... PAGE A1 conditionalities,” the Palace official said in a media conference. Since Duterte took office last year, Callamard has been a vocal critic of his administration’s socalled drug war. Last December, the president has invited the rapporteur to visit and assess the situation in the country. His invitation, however, comes with conditions, including a public debate with Duterte and that the UN special rapporteur should take an oath to “confirm her intention to be truthful.” But Callamard said these conditions set by the president were “inconsistent with the Special Rapporteur Code of Conduct and Terms of Reference for country visits.” “As far as we can tell, he has not said that conditions are waived,” Abella added. A day before, a fuming Duterte hurled fresh expletives against Callamard after she posted in a
social media that the death of 17year-old Kian Delos Santos should be the last in his drug war. “T*** i** niya, sabihin mo. Huwag niya akong takutin. P***** i** niya. G*** pala siya eh. Taga-saan ba ‘yang buang na ‘yan (Tell her son of a b****. She should not intimidate me. Son of a b****. She is a fool),” the president told reporters in Pampanga when asked about his reaction to Callamard’s statement. In a Twitter post last week, Callamard extended her condolences to the family of Delos Santos and of other drug war victims, using the hashtag “makehisdeathlast.” She also described Duterte’s campaign as “cruel.” The irked president further accused Callamard of speaking up without having no idea about the context of drug menace in the Philippines. “Papuntahan mo siya dito. Tingnan mo ang sitwasyon. Do not ever give me that kind of sh**.
Republika ng Pilipinas ito, hindi teritoryo ng France (Let her come here. Look at the situation. Do not ever give me that kind of sh**. This is the Republic of the Philippines, not a territory of France),” Duterte added. Callamard lamented Duterte’s expletive-laden response. “I regret President Duterte’s response to my condolences to Kian Lloyd delos Santos’ family. Kian and others like him deserve dignity and justice. His family and families like his demand our respect and empathy. Not expletives,” she said in a Facebook post. The UN rapporteur further stressed that it is the Philippine government’s obligation to ensure that “all unlawful deaths at the hands of the Police are independently, impartially, effectively, and promptly investigated.” She also affirmed her “keen interest and commitment to undertake an official visit to the Philippines.”
Mayweather retiring ‘for sure’ after... PAGE A1 “I think we gave the fans what they wanted to see,” said Mayweather, who’s usually criticized by his defensive style but went out aggressively against Mcgregor. “I owed them for the Pacquiao fight. I had to come straight ahead and give the fans a show. That’s what I gave them,” he added. In his social media account, Pacquiao extended his congratulations to Mayweather. “Respect to McGregor for taking a chance but congrats to Floyd on #50!” the Filipino boxer tweeted. Horn promoter frustrated Meanwhile, Jeff Horn’s promoter is apparently losing his patience with Pacquiao, who still hasn’t reconfirmed his planned rematch against the Australian boxer. “To say he (Pacquiao)’s having
second thoughts is pissing me off,” Dean Lonergan of Duco Promotions told The Daily Telegraph. “If he carries on again, it would be my advice to move on and forget about him. We’ve already booked the venue for November 12.” Last week, Philippine Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo announced that their rematch will possibly take place at Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan sometime in December. This contradicts Top Rank Promotion’s Bob Arum’s earlier statement that rematch would be held again in Brisbane, Australia on November 12. “When Bob Arum saw media reports out of the Philippines that representatives of Manny Pacquiao were trying to get the fight in Manila, Arum gave Manny Pacquiao until Saturday, August 26 to
confirm that he would recommit to fighting in Brisbane,” Lonergan said. He said that Pacquiao “has yet to reconfirm and as such now has put the Horn rematch in jeopardy.” “On that basis, Top Rank, DUCO promotions, Tourism Events Queensland and Brisbane marketing are now reassessing their options,” Horn’s promoter added. Arum, for his part, stressed it is impossible for the rematch to happen in the Philippines as they are contractually obliged to stage it in Australia. He is reportedly set to fly to Manila this week to get a definite answer from Pacquiao. Pacquiao lost his World Boxing Organization (WBO) Welterweight title to Horn through a unanimous decision last July 2. (Dana Sioson/ AJPress)
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Philanthropy and the 2020 Census: a once-in-a-decade chance to get it right by VANITA
GUPTA
NCRP
THE U.S. Constitution requires a census every 10 years, and getting it right is important to everyone. The census has an enormous impact on the nation’s ability to ensure that all Americans receive equal treatment under the law and have equal access to economic opportunities. Census data provide the basis for virtually all demographic and socioeconomic information used by policymakers at all levels of government, businesses, philanthropy, community leaders and research organizations. A good census is not a partisan issue. The goal of the U.S. Census Bureau is to “count everyone once, only once, and in the right place.” But the census doesn’t count all groups equally well, which skews the results in favor of some communities over others for the next 10 years. Already, budget shortfalls are placing census operations designed to reach groups that have been historically underrepresented in the census at risk, threatening fairness and accuracy, and ultimately, our democracy. The U.S. Census Bureau spends billions of dollars on the census. However, none of that money reaches the nonprofit organizations whose outreach to people of color, immigrants and people with low income can help make the difference between a disastrous undercount and an accurate count. It’s now or never Some of the largest foundations in the country have started to fill a portion of this resource gap, but more focus and resources are needed to support the organizations engaged in critical census education and promotion. Here are four reasons why funders need to prioritize achieving a fair and accurate 2020 census: 1. The census is important to everyone The outcome of the census influences – directly or indirectly – almost every issue that U.S.-focused philanthropies support, including political empowerment, social justice, educational opportunity, employment, veterans’ services, rural
development, health care and infrastructure in disadvantaged communities. Philanthropy also relies on census data to guide investment strategies and evaluate the work of grantees. Decennial census data on state populations determine the number of seats in Congress each state receives and how those districts are drawn. More than $600 billion annually is allocated through federal programs based, in whole or in part, on census data. Additionally, state and local governments use census information to distribute billions more for essential services. Census data are also used to monitor compliance with, and enforcement of, civil rights statutes. Counting every person in the United States is an extraordinarily complex endeavor – it is the nation’s largest peacetime mobilization of personnel and resources. Even with careful planning, a perfect count is virtually impossible: Some people are missed, some are double-counted, and some do not respond fully. But, because the accuracy of the census directly affects our nation’s ability to ensure equal representation and equal access to public and private resources, achieving a fair and accurate census must be regarded as one of the most significant civil rights and social justice priorities facing the country. 2. The 2020 census is already underway. While the 2020 census may seem far off, key decisions are being made now, and poor choices could lead to significant harm for years to come. The Census Bureau has spent an entire decade planning for the upcoming census, and, by the end of 2017, the Census Bureau will have finalized the questionnaire for 2020 and launched its program for sharing preliminary address lists with states and municipalities. Significant operations will go into effect in 2018 with the End-to-End Census Test. This pivotal “dress rehearsal” had been scheduled to take place in three areas – Pierce County, Washington; Providence County, Rhode Island; and BluefieldBeckley-Oak Hill, West Virginia – but due to budget shortfalls, it
will only be conducted in Providence. The dry run is the only opportunity for a complete test of the 2020 questionnaire and new technologies, including a new Internet response option that the Census Bureau is promoting as the primary response mode for the 2020 census and electronic devices for census takers to collect information during personal visits to unresponsive households. In 2019, the Census Bureau will ramp up its outreach efforts, which include a partnership program, paid advertising and a census in the schools program. Hundreds of millions of questionnaires will be printed, and local offices across the country will begin recruiting more than a million temporary census employees, with plans to hire about 300,000 enumerators during peak operations. Census workers also will canvass selected communities that have undergone signifi cant change or that have unstable housing conditions, to update the master address file that establishes the universe for the 2020 count. 3. Engaging later may be too late. Historically, the census has missed disproportionately high numbers of people of color, low-income households in rural and urban areas and young children. The Census Bureau also designates “hard-to-count” areas based on additional characteristics, including limited English proficiency, mobile and single-parent households. This uneven accuracy has significant civil rights implications because it could deny the most vulnerable members of our society equal representation and opportunity. Efforts to address these challenges must be built into the census process now, before it is too late for them to have an impact. Encouraging people to complete their census questionnaires, and eliminating undercounts in at-risk communities, will be particularly challenging in 2020. Encouraging an online response might lead to concerns about Internet privacy and data confidentiality, especially given high-profile news stories about computer hacking affecting businesses and government.
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HOPE SPRING ETERNAL. Car owners file their applications to operate a transport network vehicle service, a day after the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) allowed Uber to continue its operations again on Tuesday, Aug. 29. ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez
The Asian Journal comes full circle with new...
PAGE A1 gional, and national news back in the Philippines,” Oriel was quoted as saying at a recent gathering of Filipino-American community in Los Angeles, with no less than Philippine Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo in attendance. According to her, the company has remained committed to excellence, maximizing every opportunity to improve their products and services to be responsive to the ever-evolving demands of the Fil-Am communities around the world. But what largely shapes AJ to continue towards this path, Oriel said, is social responsibility—“to give back to the Philippines through social entrepreneurship.” “We are motivated to do whatever we can to help ignite and drive economic development in the Philippines in terms of tourism, investment from individuals and the private sectors alike,” the editor said. To mark AJ’s more than two decades as one of the leading voices of the Filipino-American community, Oriel disclosed they will soon be launching two international and local multimedia platforms, the Balikbayan Program and the Love of Country website. It is envisioned to build a sustainable, long-lasting foundation to awaken, strengthen, and solidify Filipino cultural identity; u PAGE A4 empower Filipino communities
throughout the world; and connect present and future generations of Filipinos with the Philippines. Named after AJ’s bi-monthly travel and lifestyle magazine Balikbayan, a comprehensive online and offline multimedia program, aims to ignite and fuel economic growth, tourism, investment, education, philanthropy, and retirement in the Philippines. Its target audience is Filipinos of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds worldwide. LoveOfCountry.ph, on the other hand, would serve as the ultimate ‘where-to’ guide for international and local travelers “to seamlessly discover the gems of the Philippines.” The website will enable visitors to easily search, find, and experience a wide array of destinations, to restaurants, bars, hotels, resorts, museums, beauty salons, health clinics, stores, local Philippinemade products, to real estate, in an aim to fully showcase what the Philippines has to offer. “What we try to accomplish is to encourage Filipinos to come home and rediscover their roots. Through our research over these past few years, our work and everyone in this room’s work and goals have never been more important nor more urgent for the Philippines than it is today. And we like to believe that the future of our nation depends on it,” Oriel proudly noted.
Curiously, Teo also made an impassioned call to the FilipinoAmerican community in LA to rally behind her in inviting their sons and daughters, grandsons and granddaughters alike, or the next generation millennials in the U.S., to trace their roots and come home to the Philippines. Playing the country’s sales woman, she said the Philippine Department of Tourism is pulling out all the stops with balikbayan travel packages featuring special rates in airfares, accommodations, ground handling, and tours targeting Fil-Am millennials. Along this line, Teo also disclosed plans to tap young professional, millennials, and social media influencers in the U.S. through “Bring Home a Friend”, an incentive travel program which was first launched by former Tourism Secretary Mina Gabor in 1994 also for the American travel market. The AJ Media Group, Inc. hosted a dinner reception for the tourism chief, who arrived in Los Angeles from a four-day official business trip in San Francisco and San Jose in July. The executive team led by the Oriel couple, Roger and Cora, graced the event held at the Mayflower Seafood Restaurant in downtown Los Angeles. ■ *** Dee Mandigma is the information officer for the Office of Public Affairs and Advocacy of the Philippine Department of Tourism.
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France corrects Duterte assumption Over 800,000 DACA recipients in fear... on presumption of innocence by Patricia Lourdes Philstar.com
Viray
THE Embassy of France in Manila on Wednesday, Aug. 30 issued a clarification following President Rodrigo Duterte’s incorrect reference to French criminal law. Earlier this week, the president said that, in France, a person is guilty until proven innocent. “They can detain a person almost indefinitely, under the French law.
And the French law says you are guilty, and you have to prove your innocence. Here, the presumption is you are innocent,” Duterte said in a speech during the celebration of National Heroes’ Day. The president made the remarks after criticizing Agnes Callamard, United Nations special rapporteur on extrajudicial killings, who is a French national but not a French politician. The French Embassy, however,
released a statement regarding Duterte’s mention of French criminal law. “We have to point out that, as in the Philippines, the presumption of innocence until proven guilty is at the core of the French judicial system, based on the principles enshrined in the French Declaration of Human and Civic Rights of August 26, 1789,” the French Embassy said in a statement. The French declaration states that “every man [is] presumed innocent until he has been pronounced guilty.” Article 9 of the same declaration holds that “[If] it is thought indispensable to arrest him, all severity that may not be necessary to secure his person ought to be strictly suppressed by law.” The embassy stressed that Paris strongly believes in the importance of the rule of law, due process and respect for human rights in all countries, including the Philippines. France was among the UN Human Rights Council members who expressed concern over the human rights situation in the Philippines following its Universal Periodic Review earlier this year. The French delegation urged the Philippines to take measures to put an end to extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions and allow the request for a visit of Callamard to look into such reports.
Ex-NBA star Ray Allen reacts to Manila traffic
THE Philippines is known for two things: the hospitality of Filipinos and the heavy traffic. Former NBA star Ray Allen got a taste of Metro Manila traffic on Tuesday, Aug. 29. The deadly shooter is in the country after attending the first ever Sneaker Con in Hong Kong with rapper Mc Jin. Allen is one of the most reliable shooters in the history of NBA. He holds the record for most number of 3-point field goals made in the regular and postseason. The 10-time NBA All-Star is the second player to visit the country this month. Earlier, Metta World Peace made a visit while Cleveland Cavaliers star LeBron James will arrive this week. (Philstar. com)
Town mates and Friends:
Please join us in celebration of our
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Nazario Perlas: Precy Castaneto- Ruedas: Lito Tambo: Ludy Lagmay-Ganzon: Mila Tadina: Josie Dolor Etrata: Mary Ann Arichea–Caunan:
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PAGE A1 wonderful jobs. And they’re in never-never land because they don’t know what’s going to happen,” he added. But as the old adage says, actions speak louder than words, and many are closely watching recent actions inside the White House. As DACA’s fifth year anniversary winds down, the Sept. 5 deadline given to Trump and his administration has people on edge. Led by Texas attorney general Ken Paxton, Republican state attorneys general from Louisiana, Alabama, Nebraska, Arkansas, South Carolina, Idaho, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Kansas, exhorted the Trump administration to halt the DACA program. If the federal government fails to withdraw DACA by the September deadline, a legal challenge would be filed. According to a 2014 Pew Research Center estimate, close to 1.1 million unauthorized immigrants are eligible for DACA benefits since Obama’s signing. About 800,000 (78 percent) of them have received deportation relief and work permits through DACA. Around 588,000 renewals have been issued since 2012, with more due as many recipients’ two years approach. Anthony Ng, a policy advocate on immigrant rights at the Asian Americans Advancing Justice Los Angeles (AAJC-LA), has been a DACA recipient since 2012 and said the program gave him relief knowing he wasn’t going to be a target of deportation. “It made me feel like I’m living a normal life,” said Ng to the Asian Journal. “I’m able to contribute in a way I want to contribute — that being in the nonprofit industry.” Like Ng, many DACA grantees have benefited from being able to support themselves financial-
ly, obtain driver’s licenses, get access to healthcare, and further themselves in life through being able to get instate tuition and work. “It’s been a source of relief and source of ability to build a future I want to have,” said Ng who graduated from the University of California, Irvine with a B.A. in Political Science. Over 16,722 are Asian American immigrant youth, according to a press release by AAJC. Aside from allowing DREAMers to participate in the labor force, garner better wages, and pursue higher education, the program has also been beneficial for the economy. The largest study to date for DACA recipients, conducted by the Center for American Progress, found that at least 72 percent of the top 25 Fortune 500 companies employed DACA recipients. These companies include Apple, General Motors, Amazon, and Wells Fargo — all accounting for $2.8 trillion in annual revenue. Many advocates have taken to social media to voice their stand against the rescinding of DACA through hashtags #DefendDACA and #HereToStay. Included are personal stories of undocumented immigrants. “If DACA is repealed, I would be out of a job immediately and I won’t be able to teach my students,” reads a story by Saba Nafees on the website of FWD. us, a non-profit advocacy group that focuses on immigration reform in the tech community. Nafees was born in Pakistan, but grew up in Fort Worth, Texas and is currently doing her PhD at Texas Tech University where she looks to understand genetic diseases through math. “It taught me what it’s like to work alongside my American students and peers. I’m just as much a part of their lives as they are mine.”
Juan Escalante, a self professed “coffee drinker, NPR fan, media and tech enthusiast,” and undocumented immigrant, shared an open letter to Trump on Medium.com that got shared by many on Twitter. “Mr. President, just as your parents wanted you to succeed, and just as you want your children to succeed, my parents took a great risk for my future,” wrote Escalante in the letter. “It’s what families do. My family and I do not have a pathway towards citizenship, not today, tomorrow, or ever. That is why DACA is so important.” If Trump does end up cancelling DACA, bigger questions as to how he would do so become more critical. As of now, there is no clear way of knowing what will happen. “Anything is possible. It’s very unpredictable,” said Ng on what the future holds. Immigration lawyer J Craig Fong at Fong & Aquino LLP, has been practicing law for about 35 years, and has handled DACA cases since the program’s inception. Fong told the Asian Journal that advising what next steps recipients should take is risky right now, as there is no telling what exact actions Trump will take. Furthermore, giving advice to a whole group isn’t the best way to go as each case is different — not everyone came to the United States the same way. Advocates like Fong and Ng agree that staying informed is the best way to approach the situation. “Sit tight and watch for announcements,” said Fong. “We’re just making sure that we’re preparing for anything our community needs,” said Ng. “We’re going to protect and fight for the immigrant community.” (Rae Ann Varona/ AJPress)
Philanthropy and the 2020 Census... PAGE A3
And some communities that may already feel besieged by the current political climate may be concerned about new options for identifying Middle Eastern and North African ethnicity. Immigrant and mixed-status households may be especially fearful of providing information to the federal government in 2020, given the heightened climate of fear that anti-immigrant rhetoric and policies have created. The Census Bureau will attempt to minimize undercounting with an extensive, $400+ million communications plan, but the bureau cannot be successful on its own. The role that national and state advocacy groups and community-based organizations play is critical to a fair and accurate census. According to former Census Bureau Director Kenneth Prewitt, “Of the many things necessary for a successful census, none rival ‘trusted voices’ that reassure Americans anxious about the government asking questions. The Census Bureau knows that trusted community voices persuade millions of Americans to join the once every decade opportunity that is truly ‘of the people, by the people, for the people.’” We commend the philanthropic community for identifying an accurate 2010 census as an important goal and for committing significant resources to this work – The Leadership Conference’s 2010 census education and promotion campaign, a collaborative with Asian Americans Advancing Justice-AAJC, the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials Educational Fund, the NAACP, and the National Congress of American Indians, which served as a key bridge between the Census Bureau and communities at greatest risk of an undercount – would not have been possible without this support. Foundations invested at least $37 million in “get out the count” campaigns to increase the accuracy of the 2010 census. But the flow of funds to nonprofit organizations was uneven and unpredictable, and the levels of funding were not commensurate with the importance of the census and the wide-ranging and long-term consequences of underperformance. Equally important is to consider that meaningful funder involvement did not begin until 2008, which was not early enough in the decade during the last census cycle. Our work for the 2020 census has been under way for years, and some of the nation’s largest foundations have begun to shore up funding to support nonprofit communities. But the resources and reach to date are inadequate to meet the immense challenge of ensuring a fair and accurate count.
In the current climate, broadening the coalition engaged in census work will be critical. Foundations that understand the importance of the census for their other substantive areas of focus must find ways of ensuring a swift and sufficient investment in the work of community groups. 4. Focusing on policy improvements now could pay significant dividends. The 2020 census faces a severe threat that underfunding will compromise its fairness and accuracy. In order for the Census Bureau to prepare well – and carry out important tests of new technologies and procedures – it requires a continuous ramp up in funding levels in the years ending in “6” through “0.” Unfortunately, as the below graph shows, for this cycle Congress allocated far less than the Census Bureau requested in both 2016 and 2017; the 2017 funding level was only modestly higher than the previous year. To make matters worse, the administration’s funding request of $1.5 billion for fiscal year 2018 is irresponsible and unrealistically low, falling at least $300 million short of the level needed to ensure a cost-effective decennial census in 2020. This underinvestment has already forced the Census Bureau to scale back or eliminate some key 2020 census preparations. For example, 2017 field tests planned for Puerto Rico and on two American-Indian reservations were canceled. In addition, the opening of three of six regional 2020 census offices has been delayed, and the communications campaign and coverage measurement components of the 2018 dress rehearsal were eliminated. Given the Trump Administration’s inadequate budget request for 2018, the Census Bureau has been forced to entirely eliminate two of the three dress rehearsal sites, thus diminishing the opportunity to fully test all methods and operations in a census-like environment in different types of communities.
The consequences of inadequate preparation and funding could be devastating, with vulnerable, hard-to-count communities taking the hardest hits. Educational outreach, to both sides of the aisle, about the need for sufficient government investment in the sound preparation and policy development to ensure a fair and accurate census, can help address this potential crisis, but philanthropic support is needed for this work to be successful. Census funding has been traditionally viewed by philanthropy as a once-a-decade undertaking, without a midcycle funding stream. But funding for organizations with a proven track record on census issues, as well as for those who can reach audiences that will support and decide ceansus policy, can help make the difference in bolstering efforts to educate and influence policymakers. Funders: be a validator to your peers The census is a classic “intersectional” issue. It has a direct impact on antipoverty efforts, criminal justice reform, racial justice issues, educational access and much more. Thousands of community groups across the country are hoping to play a role in promoting the census to their constituents, but they lack the resources to develop and staff major activities. Foundations that support the core work of these organizations should recognize that an inclusive census enables grantees to access the resources they need to provide better services. We hope that funders will be open to combining portfolios, as many did in 2010, to increase the pot of available funding. Please talk to your colleagues about this critical issue. When it comes to the census, there are no do-overs – we have only one chance this decade to get it right. *** Vanita Gupta is president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights and former head of the Civil Rights Division at the U.S. Department of Justice.
LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUSt 31-SEptEmbER 6, 2017
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Poll: President most caring, decisive official MANILA – Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is the most loving, caring, and decisive among the country’s top five government officials, according to a recent survey conducted by by political management and lobbying firm Publicus Asia. Publicus Asia’s pilot Pahayag survey tested the people’s perception on Duterte, Vice President Ma. Leonor “Leni” Robredo, Chief Justice Lourdes Sereno, Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, and House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, in terms of the “Love, Care and Solidarity” index, and the “Decisiveness Index.” Survey respondents were asked to choose which among the five officials they think is most loving, caring, and decisive. The annual poll was conducted among 1,500 respondents from key cities nationwide from August 7 to 9 through face to face computer-aided personal interviews. The results were released on Monday, August 28. Duterte got 90 percent decisiveness rating, while Robredo got five percent. On the other hand, Sereno, Pimentel and Alvarez all got one percent. “In this day and age, I think decisiveness is the way to go in order to get things moving in this country,” said Publicus Asia founder and chief executive officer Malou Tiquia. The president also scored the highest in terms of love, concern, and care for the country among the top government officials, earning 82 percent, 79 percent and 79 percent index ratings respectively. “Maybe the results on Duterte are glaring because he is the top decision-maker. They might see his cursing as a reflection of his anger and exasperation,” Tiquia added. Robredo only got 13 percent in terms of being loving; 17 percent in being concerned, and 16% in being caring. She was followed by Pimentel with ratings of both one percent for being loving and caring, and two percent for being concerned. Only one percent of respondents deemed Alvarez as caring. The chief justice, meanwhile, got zero percent in all three categories.
Malacañang opened its doors on Tuesday, Aug. 29 to children displaced by fighting in Marawi City. Philstar.com photo by Alexis Romero
“As to Sereno, either the respondents do not know her or they don’t know the nature of her job,” Publicus Asia, Inc. Chief Operating Officer Lilibet Amatong explained. Among the five most recent Philippine presidents, Corazon “Cory” Aquino had the highest votes as loving leader (38 percent). She was followed by former Presidents Joseph Estrada with 27 percent, Fidel Ramos with ten percent, Benigno “Noynoy Aquino III with nine percent, and Arroyo with five percent. Aquino, meanwhile, remains the most concerned with a rating of 33 percent, followed by Estrada (30 percent), Ramos (11 percent), Aquino III, (ten percent) and Arroyo (five percent). In terms of approval and awareness, respondents were asked to assess the performance of the officials individually. When it comes to awareness rating, Duterte got a perfect 100 percent. Robredo scored 87 percent, Sereno 45 percent, Pimentel 69 percent, and Alvarez 49 percent. As for approval rating, Duterte got a total of 88 percent, Robredo 60 percent, Sereno 51 percent, Pimentel 66 percent, and Alvarez 57 percent. “This survey tests the emotional quotient of the leaders… There are leaders who are trained all their lives to be a leader but cannot connect to the masses…We want to introduce EQ as a frame,” Tiquia said. Duterte meets Kian’s parents, assures justice
Also on Monday, the president met with the parents of Kian Delos Santos, a Grade 11 student who was killed during an antidrug operation in Caloocan City after allegedly pulling a gun on police officers. “During their meeting, the President reassured that there will be no interference in the case citing that only due process will prevail and that the handling of the case will be fair,” the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) said in a statement. In a video interview with Communications Assistant Secretary Margaux “Mocha” Uson, Kian’s mother, Lorenza, said Duterte assured them a speedy resolution of the case. “Pinangako naman po niya sa amin na sa lalong madaling panahon ay tutulungan niya kaming malutas ang kaso dahil hindi po niya papayagan kung sinuman daw po iyong nagkasala ay dapat maparusahan (He promised that he will help us with a speedy resolution of the case because the guilty must be held liable),” she said. Lorenza added that they are less worried now about the case after meeting with the President. Kian’s father, Saldy, said they feel “more secure” after the meeting. “Panatag na. Nawala na iyong takot sa buhay namin. Iyon lang po. Masaya (We don’t fear for our lives anymore. That’s it. We’re happy),” he further remarked. (Dana Sioson/AJPress)
Maute patriarch dies after blood pressure shoots up by Dana
SioSon AJPress
which is nearby, after his pulse rate dropped,” he added. “I still don’t have his death certificate THE detained father of broth- and so I can’t say if he was deers Abdullah and Omar Maute, clared dead on arrival.” who led the attack on Marawi Solda said that Cayamora’s ofCity, passed away on Sunday, ficial cause of death has yet to August 27, according to the Bu- be declared but noted that the reau of Jail Management and Pe- Maute patriarch was already nology (BJMP). diagnosed with diabetes, hyperBJMP spokesperson and Se- tension and hepatitis before his nior Insp. Xavier Solda said Cay- detention. amora Maute, 67, died past 3:00 Cayamora was arrested in p.m. in a government hospital af- June 6 in Davao City. Also arter his blood pressure shot up. rested with him were his second “The initial report that we re- wife Kongan Balawag, daughter ceived was that his blood pres- Norjanah, and son-in-law Bensure shot up,” Solda said in an zarali Tingao; as well as their interview. driver Aljon Ismael, who was According to Solda, Cayamora later released. was “in critical condition” when The Maute patriarch’s body he was rushed to Taguig-Pate- was brought back to the BJMP ros District Hospital from Camp complex “for short viewing of Bagong Diwa. his immediate family.” “Our nurse was constantly In a statement, Armed Forces monitoring his situation and of the Philippines (AFP) said that he was brought to the hospital, Cayamora’s death is an unfor-
tunate incident, not only for the Maute family but also for those who were affected with the terrorism in Marawi. “This is an unfortunate incident for his family, but more so to the victims of terrorism in Marawi and their relatives who are awaiting justice and expecting that Mr. Cayamora would answer/ atone for his involvement in Marawi rebellion,” AFP chief Eduardo Año said. As of Thursday, August 24, the death toll in Marawi crisis has reached 770—of which 596 were terrorists, 129 were government troopers, and 45 were civilians. The Maute terrorist group attacked Marawi City on May 23, prompting Duterte to declare Martial Law in the entire Mindanao. The extended military rule is slated to expire by the end of the year.
De Lima willing to bargain with Duterte over drug war killings by Dana
SioSon AJPress
“Mr. President, lock me in jail for as long as you want but please just stop the killings.” This was the bargain Senator Leila De Lima is willing to make with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, Fr. Robert Reyes told the Inquirer. De Lima celebrated her 58th birthday on Sunday, August 27 while in detention at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center in Camp Crame. A fierce critic of Duterte, the senator has been condemning the administration’s “brutal” crackdown on narcotics that resulted to allegedly thousands of summary executions and human rights abuses. De Lima was arrested in February over drug-related charges but fellow opposition members described her as the administration’s first political prisoner. According to Reyes, De Lima remains in high spirit. “Senator Leila said she thanked God for giving her 58 wonderful years,” Reyes said. “She is enraged by what is happening, especially the drug killings, but she said she would not be consumed by negativism.”
As for her birthday wish, the senator said that she praying this year will be the first and last time she celebrates her birthday in detention. De Lima added that she wished for “vindication” as well as freedom “not only from the injustice of my detention under the Duterte regime but also freedom from the lies and slander on my womanhood and person.” Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, also a vocal critic of the administration and De Lima’s political ally, described the mood at the custodial center as “festive.” “I told her that this too shall pass and that she has a larger mission ahead of her,” Trillanes said, adding that he also told her they were still “actively pursuing her case.” Apart from Trillanes, also present were former Social Welfare Secretary Dinky Soliman, former tourism secretary Ramon Jimenez, former budget chief Florencio Abad and daughter Julia Abad, Ging Deles, former presidential peace adviser Teresita Deles, and former education secretary Bro. Armin Luistro. Albay 1st District Represen-
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Sen. Leila De Lima
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tative Edcel Lagman, former Akbayan representative Ibarra Gutierrez, and former Civil Service Commission chairperson Karina David also joined the celebration. Former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III reportedly visited De Lima a week before her birthday.
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OpiniOn
Drug war 2.0
Features
“HOW will I succeed?” This was the question President Rodrigo Duterte emphasized when he humbly admitted to his constituents that he cannot fulfill his promise of eradicating the drug problem in the country in just six months after assuming office. The president said he was shocked by the magnitude of the drug menace and that the crackdown would have to continue until the end of his six-year term. Knowing that he has newfound enemies in generals, policemen and other government officials who are accused of being involved in the drug problem, Duterte vowed that a more unrelenting war on drugs will commence. “Now, you die. If you are a mayor, a congressman, a governor, if you get killed, sorry. That is my order,” the president warned. “I hope that I can get rid of it before I go out of my office. I hope I will witness it. Dahan-dahanin ko lang ‘yan sila (I will do it slowly).” Despite continuously drawing flak from human rights groups in the country and abroad, Duterte refused to listen to his critics and accused them of trivializing the problem. Reports show that thousands have died since the government launched its war on drugs. However, figures from the police and civil society contradict each other. Government officials claim that only about 3,000 drug personalities have been killed in police operations, while human rights ad-
vocates have placed the death toll at around 9,000. On Monday, Aug. 28, Duterte met with Saldy and Lorenza de los Santos, the parents of a 17-year-old boy who was killed in a police operation in Caloocan last Aug. 16. Their son, Kian Loyd, was accused of peddling drugs and was allegedly killed in a shootout with police. The death of Kian sparked protests and renewed condemnation over the war on drugs from concerned citizens around the world. The three police officers, who accused Kian of resisting arrest and resorted to killing the teenager, are now in police custody and will face various government agencies tasked to further investigate the incident. For his part, Duterte promised the de los Santos couple that he would do everything to ensure an early resolution of their son’s case and to make sure that the policemen accused will be punished. Despite efforts by Duterte to vociferously fight the drug crisis in the country, many still refuse to see its success. Because for them, guilty or not, the staggering numbers of people who have been killed also comes with growing level of violence
Editorial
and impunity in the country. The gruesome photographs of blood-soaked corpses of alleged drugs suspects are constantly shown with headlines on media almost everyday. This shows how there is a level of desensitization to the violence among a certain segment of the population.
This brutal anti-drug crackdown is painstaking, and often thankless. Perhaps what it needs photo is to re-assess the problem andManilaTimes.net propose policy recommendations for a radically different approach—one that will not inflict fear among the citizenry but ignite civic participation instead. (AJPress)
Trump’s pardoning of Sheriff Arpaio supports the unconstitutional tactic of racial profiling against people of color worse than late-term AS the nation compardons issued under miserate with Texas The Fil-Am the last two Demofor the record rainfall cratic presidents. and flooding brought Perspective While granting parabout by hurricane Hardon was part of the vey, President Donald executive prerogative Trump announced that exercised by previous he was pardoning forpresidents, Trump mer Arizona Sheriff Joe Gel SantoS-ReloS granted the pardon Arpaio, who was convicted last month of criminal contempt before the sentencing of Arpaio. The for the way he illegally profiled, hunted former Arizona sheriff has not served down, and jailed undocumented im- one day in jail for the criminal offense migrants, particularly Hispanics, in his he was found guilty of, and as his critics pointed out, Trump effectively byjurisdiction in Arizona. Trump’s motive in timing this an- passed the usual practice of the Justice ticipated announcement was to have Department review process before “higher ratings,” knowing that people granting presidential pardon to Arare glued to their TV sets to be updated paio. As the New York Times (NYT) reabout the storm and how they can help ported, Trump asked Attorney General the people of Texas. Responding to critics, Trump sug- Jeff Sessions and White House counsel gested that the Justice Department had Donald F. McGahn II months ago if political motives during the Obama ad- Arpaio’s case could be dropped. The ministration for charging Arpaio while president was told that it could not be, the former sheriff was only doing his but that it was well within his presidential authority to pardon Arpaio. job to combat illegal immigration. The 85-year-old Arpaio has served Trump supporters believe the president did the right thing in pardon- for 24 years as sheriff of Maricopa ing Arpaio, reinforcing their hard line County, and as the NYT reported, stance against immigrants living and has built a reputation throughout the United States “for harsh conditions in working in the United States illegally. Trump also said his action was no his county jail, and for cracking down
against undocumented immigrants.” Arpaio blamed the Obama administration for losing in his reelection bid for a seventh term last year, because of criminal contempt charges that were filed against him on Oct. 26 for persisting with profiling Latinos. “I thought he was treated unbelievably unfairly,” Trump contended during a press conference in the White House. “He would have won the election, but they just hammered him just before the election,” Trump argued. Arpaio backed Trump during the 2016 presidential election. What is racial profiling and why is it important for us Filipinos in America? The American Civil Liberties Union defined it this way: “Racial profiling is a longstanding and deeply troubling national problem despite claims that the United States has entered a “post-racial era.” It occurs every day, in cities and towns across the country, when law enforcement and private security target people of color for humiliating and often frightening detentions, interrogations, and searches without evidence of criminal activity and based on perceived race, ethnicity, national origin, or religion. Racial profiling is patently
illegal, violating the U.S. Constitution’s core promises of equal protection under the law to all and freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures. Just as importantly, racial profiling is ineffective. It alienates communities from law enforcement, hinders community policing efforts, and causes law enforcement to lose credibility and trust among the people they are sworn to protect and serve. We rely on the police to protect us from harm and promote fairness and justice in our communities. But racial profiling has led countless people to live in fear, casting entire communities as suspects simply because of what they look like, where they come from, or what religion they adhere to. Racial profiling affects a wide array of communities of color. More than 240 years of slavery and 90 years of legalized racial segregation have led to systemic profiling of blacks in traffic and pedestrian stops. Since September 11, 2001, members of Muslim, Arab, and South Asian communities have been profiled by airline personnel, federal law enforcement, and local police.” The Constitution of the United States’ 14th Amendment Section 1 stipulates: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the
jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside. No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.” WE FILIPINOS who have naturalized, or are living in the country with all legal papers are protected by this law. While Arpaio, Trump and his supporters may argue this tactic of racial profiling may help solve the problem of illegal immigration, those who are in the country legally may be denied of their civil rights just because they look and sound “different” from “typical” Americans. Being persons of color, we, too, may be subject to racial profiling if the Arpaio-Trump “doctrine” is to be normalized and followed, no matter who you voted for in the last election. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column 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
This Labor Day, AAPI workers call for more unions to fix the rigged economy Commentary luiSa Blue, Seiu executive vice PReSident RAISING our voices in proud solidarity this Labor Day, Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) workers are joining with working people across the country to put the importance of unions front and center in our national conversation. Emerson Padua is a proud Filipino American and dedicated healthcare worker from Beaumont, Calif. He has been a dialysis patient care technician for 21 years. When Emerson first started, there was one patient care technician for every three patients. Now the ratio can be as much as eight patients for one staff person, or only two technicians and one nurse caring for 21 patients. This understaffing forces him and his co-workers to serve as part-time janitors, social workers, dieticians and inventory administrators on top of their patient care duties. When Emerson started work-
ing in dialysis, his co-workers were attempting to unionize but he didn’t support them. Then he saw conditions decline over the years and decided to help fix the conditions he works in, and make sure the opportunity for a union didn’t slip away again. Now Emerson is speaking up for his patients and coworkers, and together they are fighting to form a union and reform the dialysis industry and its growing crisis in patient care. In particular, Emerson is fighting to increase staff levels in order to protect vulnerable patients from the risk of infection and infection. In California alone, kidney patients seeking treatment at dialysis clinics grew 46 percent over the past eight years. Adequate staffing is critical for Emerson’s patients who are waiting for a transplant and need dialysis to survive. The Service Employees International Union is the largest healthcare union representing the whole spectrum of healthcare professionals and workers. We have the expertise to assess shortcomings in the industry since we are on the frontlines of patient care. Unions are important vehicles for working people to improve their safety and working condi-
tions in the workplace, and also to lift the social and economic situations of their entire communities. The top priority of our elected officials must be to ensure good jobs on which people can raise a family. The two main ways to do that are through raising the minimum wage or by joining a union together to negotiate those raises. We have achieved enormous success in raising the minimum wage, and now we must ensure that our demand for a union is being heard. I have dedicated the last four decades of my life to organizing and advocating for the rights of working men and women through unions, which helps us make strides on things like voting rights and the rights of immigrants. From Desert Springs Hospital in Las Vegas to San Francisco International Airport, I have seen the difference that being in a union makes in the lives of working people and their families, particularly in immigrant communities and communities of color. People are underpaid in every racial and ethnic group, regardless of the color of their skin. While the AAPI community is the fastest growing racial group in the United States, people often
stereotype it as white-collared technology and science workers. Yet AAPI women make up nearly a third of all full-time working women who earn less than $15 an hour in industries such as food service, home care, retail service, waitressing, dishwashing, housekeeping and child care. AAPI women are garment workers, poultry plant workers, nail salon technicians and restaurant workers. We are a growing political force and we can make a huge difference in elections. There were more than 620,000 new AAPI voters in the last three presidential cycles, with eligible AAPI voters in various states making up more than 5% of the state’s electorate, including Nevada, Virginia, and California. There was an unprecedented number of AAPIs running for office across the country in 2016 and there are now more than 600 AAPI elected officials throughout government. Not only is the AAPI community a growing electoral power and a growing social power, we are also increasingly joining unions. Nationwide, union membership among AAPIs increased by 96,000 people in 2014. To defeat anti-worker politicians, the
demand for unions has become central for our community and for all working people in order to take back the country from selfinterested politicians and greedy corporations that make profits on the backs of their employees. But there is still much work to be done. Working people are fed up with the rigged economic and political system, and the politicians who rigged it. The number one job of politicians is to raise the standard of living for workers. This Labor Day, protests and actions in more than 300 cities will confront the politicians and corporations who have rigged the system against workers, particularly people of color. We will see a renewed politics led by working people demanding a voice in the workplace. There are those who are saying that the focus should just be on “white working class voters.” But we won’t let extremists use race as a “divide and conquer” strategy to keep working people from coming together. Instead we will link racial justice to all of our justice fights—immigrant justice, healthcare justice, and environmental justice—to inspire and mobilize working families in communities across the nation to join the op-
position. Across the country, AAPI worker are joining working people of every stripe to stand up against those who rigged our economy. They joined the resistance movement that we’ve seen blossom in the streets of small towns and big cities alike, from the historic Women’s marches to the spontaneous support at airports protesting the Muslim ban to healthcare workers standing with patients to defeat the attempts at repealing healthcare and gutting Medicaid. This Labor Day they will be out in the streets again in every region of the country, demanding the right to join a union, and taking on the politicians and corporations who are fighting to hold wages, working people and our families down. *** SEIU Executive Vice President Luisa Blue is one of the highest-ranking Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) union leaders in the nation. She was recognized in 2015 at the national Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance convention, where she was awarded the Philip Vera Cruz Organizing Award, and was recognized by the Filipina Women’s Network as one of the 100 Most Influential Filipinas in the World because of her commitment to racial, immigrant and civil rights, and for her efforts in organizing workers at SEIU.
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.
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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUSt 31-SEptEmbER 6, 2017
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PH, Indonesia, Malaysia plan meet on international terrorism by Alexis
RomeRo Philstar.com
A female trooper fixes the hijab of her colleague as they prepare to board a plane that will take them to Marawi City. The military and police onTuesday, Aug. 29 deployed 105 female troopers to Marawi to help in the rehabilitation and rebuilding of the war-ravaged city. ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma
AFP, police deploy female troops to Marawi by Dempsey
Reyes ManilaTimes.net
THE military and police deployed 105 female troops to Marawi to help in the rehabilitation and rebuilding programs for the war-ravaged city. Armed Forces chief Gen. Eduardo Año led the sendoff ceremony on Tuesday, Aug. 29 at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City. “Marawi, the city of our Muslim brothers and sisters, has given importance to the women in our society. It’s part of the Filipino culture to protect and respect the women,” Año, said, explaining the sending of the all-female contingent. Four of those deployed were military officials. The police sent one official. Of the 100, 60 are enlisted Philippine Army officers and 40 were non-commissioned police officers. Año said he and President Rodrigo Duterte talked with female officials and doctors in the main battle area when the Chief Executive visited Marawi City last week. “Even if we can see that they were already exhausted, we have not heard of any complaints from them but rather, we can see through their eyes their joy,” he said.
The AFP chief said more troops will be deployed to support the first all-female batch. The female soldiers and police will be in Marawi until the situation in the city returns to normal. “That’s when their mission will end, so they will have to stay there,” he said. Twenty of the female soldiers and police officers are married while 76 are single. They are a mix of Christians and Muslims. “We have seen the skills of these women. They will be a big help in normalizing the situation especially to the victims of the Marawi war including the children, youth and of course, the women,” Año said. As the military gears up for a big final battle with the Maute group, Año vowed that no terrorist will be able to leave or enter Marawi. Send Maute to heaven “That’s our main goal. No way out, no way in. If they want to join, they want to go to heaven as what they have said, so we will give them the chance to go to heaven,” he told reporters. The military is on red alert in Mindanao as officials expect the Maute group to go on a rampage following the death of the Maute patriarch, Cayamora Maute, on Sunday.
The AFP chief is confident that Maute group leaders Isnilon Hapilon, Abdullah and Omarkhayam Maute are still in Marawi. “Anywhere they go, if they will attempt to reinforce or they will escape, we are ready to get them,” Año said. “We expect a fierce confrontation with the Maute as they do their last stand,” he added. Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, Jr., chief of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) said Monday that military units in Lanao del Sur, Marawi City and other parts of central Mindanao have been alerted against a possible rampage by Maute terrorists. “We are not taking chances. These are terrorists and the only language they speak is terrorism,” Galvez said. Local officials in vowed to help the military to thwart any incursion or attack by the Maute group. Chief Supt. Reuben Theodore Sindac, director of the Police Regional Office-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said the police Lanao del Sur and in Maguindanao have been on high alert since Sunday night. Marawi City, which has more than 90 barangays, is the capital of Lanao del Sur.
MANILA — The leaders of the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia may meet to discuss international terrorism, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Wednesday, Aug. 30, as Filipino troops plan their final assault against Islamic State-styled militants in Marawi City. Duterte said he and Indonesian President Joko Widodo are still awaiting word from Malaysia President Najib Razak on the meeting. “Widodo and I have yet to hear from Najib. He wants us, the three of us to meet somewhere to talk about this new phenomenon of international terrorism,” the president said during the oath-taking of newly-promoted police officials in Malacañang. “It seems that we are back into the stages of the old world. Like pirates, of which they are really are… They kill and they just want to destroy,” he added. Last June, the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia launched joint maritime patrols to combat terrorism and other transnational crimes. Officials said the trilateral border agreement seeks to prevent abductions at sea and the movement of terrorist groups. The three Southeast Asian countries also agreed to share information, exchange liaison officers, share assets and form joint headquarters. The launching of joint maritime patrols came as Philippine security forces grapple with the threats posed by jihadists that laid siege to Marawi City. The siege, which started last May 23, prompted Duterte to declare martial law in Mindanao. Duterte said the military operation in Marawi is now on its “final stages” but warned that the Philippines has not seen the last of the terrorists. ‘Philippines has not seen last of terrorists’ “I do not think that the siege in Marawi would be the beginning and the end. It has begun in Sulu many years ago and the number of times that we were humiliated as a country,” the President said. “We cannot even protect our own, much more with the number of tourists who disregard warnings and go there. And that Malacca Strait there, the great expanse is the Sulu Sea then it gets to be
constricted because you have to ply the Malacca Strait. That has become a very serious problem for everybody,” he added. To counter the terrorist threat, Duterte said he would form five to seven battalions of elite police commandos and to acquire additional jets and fast boats. “I am looking for money and I want the Philippine National Police to as soon as possible recruit and organize about five to seven bat-
talions of [Special Action Force]trained,” the president said. “I do not need at this time the large, gray ships. All I need are the fast boats to pursue the pirates and terrorists,” he added. Gray ships rever to naval vessels while white refers to Coast Guard or maritime law enforcement craft. Duterte is also planning to double the number of lead-in fighter trainer jets to 24 from 12 to achieve a “credible Air Force.”
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Journal Kris Aquino working with What is Gerald Anderson and Bea Alonzo’s bonding activity? Willie Revillame for TV comeback by MJ
Marfori ManilaTimes.net
by Christina
alpad ManilaTimes.net
Gerald anderson works out every day and never cheats on his fitness routine and healthy lifestyle. In case you are wondering, all this discipline is the secret to his rock-hard abs and beautiful physique. “Not a day goes by na hindi ako nagpapawis. It’s me na eh, it’s a part of my lifestyle.” Gerald’s motivation to stay fit lately comes from his sporty soap with Kim Chiu, “Ikaw lang ang Iibigin” on aBS-CBN, and of course, his special someone Bea alonzo. Gerald says in fact that to make the most of their time off from their busy schedules, they’ve incorporated working out during their dates. In turn, people have noticed how Bea has adapting to a healthier lifestyle since getting together with Gerald, taking on running as their favorite activity. Gerald proudly said of his girlfriend, “She ran 10 km for her first time and malayo iyon ah! That’s not easy for a first timer.” Gerald hopes to do more fitness activities with Bea as well, sharing, “Syempre, one day sana magsama kami sa Ironman.” Bea Alonzo and Gerald Anderson
How’s Duterte as ‘boss’? Director Brillante Mendoza weighs in dUrING the recent press conference of his latest TV5 masterpiece “amo” at the director’s Club of SM Megamall’s Mega Fashion Hall, Brillante Mendoza was asked what kind of “amo” he is. “‘Di ako feeling amo, but team leader,” said the Cannes Festival Best director. Philstar.com, in turn, asked him what kind of “amo” is President rodrigo duterte for him, since he directed the president’s State of the Nation address for two years in a row. “Depende rin ‘yan sa mga sumusunod sa kanya…Kung halimbawa, ang mga sumusunod sa kanya ay matigas ang ulo, mayroon din naman kasing sumusunod sa kanya na matigas ang ulo…Mayroon din namang mga leaders na generally magaling, no? Pero kasi unang una, tingnan muna natin kung sa anong aspeto magaling ang isang leader. Dun din ba sa ganong aspeto magaling ang followers? I think you can only be a good leader if
you have good followers. as far as our president is concerned, marami namang sumusunod sa kanya. Pero hindi naman kasi lahat ay susunod ng maayos.” Showing every Sunday at 9:30 p.m. starting September 10 on TV5, “amo” is a crime miniseries that tackles one of today’s most controversial topics—the Philippine government’s war on drugs. Written by Troy espiritu, this 12-episode miniseries depicts the human side of the war on drugs and how it affects families and communities. Since “amo” is based on the true stories of real players in the drug war, with Brillante’s team interviewing real drug users, drug lords and police officers, it inevitably includes scenes on the government’s controversial Oplan Tokhang, in which among the latest victims is 17-year-old Kian delos Santos. When asked on what he thinks about Tokhang, Mendoza explained: “Siguro ‘di naman ‘yun PAGE B3 Brillante Mendoza
NOW it can be told: TV host Willie revillame is helping Kris aquino get back on television. On Thursday, aug. 24 aquino surprised her 3.1 million followers on photo-sharing social media platform Instagram when she posted a group photo with Willie revillame, his core team and her business manager arnold Vegafria taken at a hotel in Mandaluyong. Her caption—“I had a productive 5 hour meeting w/ my future BOSS & his core staff. exciting times ahead. Good night” —further fueled the rumor that aquino ABC-CBN photo would be co-hosting revillame’s current game show “Wowowin” on GMa Network. Kris Aquino Willie Revillame Vegafria documented the meeting in his own Instagram block-timer travel show (“Trip The host, also a former talent account and wrote, “a productive Ni Kris”), the former TV host has of aBS-CBN when he hosted meeting with @krisaquino @wil- not had any further project at the noontime show “Wowowee” lierevillame.” station. from 2005 to 2010, further noted To recall, aquino left aBSOn Friday, aug. 25, revil- that aquino’s manager Vegafria CBN, her home network for 22 lame revealed to Jojo Gabinete has first approached revillame years, in 2016. Speculations cir- of showbiz portal Pep.ph that he because the TV host-actress culated that she would transfer to is willing to help the 46-year-old, want to be revillame’s “female rival network GMa-7 after a series “Tutulungan ko siya, tutulungan version.” of talks but besides a one-time ko talaga siya.” Nevertheless, revillame revealed that he is helping aquino because he loves her, because she is the daughter of the late President Cory aquino and because she is a good person. “Wala siyang mean bone sa katawan,” revillame added. He also said he can relate to aquino as they are both often misinterpreted. revillame also revealed that aquino has been a topic in his meetings with GMa executives Felipe Gozon, Jimmy duavit, Bobby Yalong and annette Gozon. The Manila Times contacted talent manager, producer and Miss World franchise holder arnold Vegafria to ask for further deKris Aquino (center) and her manager Arnold Vegafria (rightmost) meets with TV host Willie tails regarding the meeting but he said through a text message “he Revillame (second from right) and his core team. Inquirer.net photo Photo from Kris Aquino’s Instagram account doesn’t want to comment.”
Jo Koy
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Aiza Seguerra looks back on Alden Richards surprises unrewarded heroes showbiz beginnings by Iza IglesIas ManilaTimes.net
TogeTher with her life partner Film Development Council Chairman Liza Diño, former child star, musician and current National Youth Commission Chairman Aiza Seguerra is grateful to have the opportunity to give back to the entertainment industry where she made her name today. At one of the events of the successful Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino where her office gave its full support to the FDCP, The Manila Times caught up with Seguerra who happily looked back at her beginnings in the business. It was on the longest running noontime variety show “eat, Bulaga!” where she and her Mommy Caring took their first hopeful step for the precocious child to join showbiz. over the years, the program has introduced a number of the biggest and brightest names in the industry, launching countless careers through a backdrop of limitless fun and entertainment for Filipinos worldwide. Indeed, if there is one talent who is famously associated with the program since her early days on television, it would be Seguerra. Seguerra was only three years old when she joined “Little Miss Philippines” in 1987. even if she was not crowned the winner, the singer/songwriter was eventually called back for a coveted stint in the program. “The show has been my foundation,” Seguerra said recalling her younger years. eat, Bulaga! became her second home for over 10 years and it was there she learned everything about being an
artist and entertainer. From there she went on to play the daughter Vic Sotto on the iconic sitcom, “okay Ka Fairy Ko,” which had a spin off as the popular “enteng Kabisote” series on the big screen in later years. eventually, Seguerra launched her solo music career and cut memorable singles like “Pagdating ng Panahon” among others, cementing her place in oPM. Seguerra said she owes much of her success to the noontime variety program as it allowed her to do what she loves best – entertain people and inspire them through her music. “how I am now, how I work, I owe that to eat, Bulaga!. every time I work with people, I always look for that familiar environment. eat, Bulaga! will always be a safe place for me,” she declared. Now a government appointee who makes sure to combine her youth projects with endeavors to support showbiz, Seguerra went on to enumerate many other celebrities who also began in the noontime and now enjoy successful careers. She recalled dancer-turnedactress rochelle Pangilinan of the Sex Bomb girls dance group, who become a soap opera star on gMA Network shows. “What’s great about the support eat Bulaga gives its discoveries is that it helps them provide a better life for their family while molding their talents, like rochelle and I were able to do,” said Seguerra. Now 34 years old, Seguerra enjoys watching the noontime show’s
Aiza Seguerra
current child stars ryzza Mae Dizon and Sebastian Benedict— more popularly known as Baeby Baste—who remind her of the fun she had with Tito, Vic and Joey and the rest of the Dabarkads. “Nandyan pa si Maine (Mendoza) who became an overnight celebrity on the show, and the That’s My Bae Boys like Kenneth Medrano, Miggy Tolentino, Kim Last, Tommy Penaflor, Jon Timmons, Joel Palencia, who are being groomed to become the industry’s next hosts and leading men,” she proudly continued. “Iba talaga ang nagawa ng eat Bulaga para sa mga may pangarap para sa sarili nila at sa kanilang pamilya.” In ending, Seguerra said that if she can do even half of what eat Bulaga! for her for another young talent, or at the very least give back to the business that has been very good to her, it would show how thankful she is to the people who helped her reach her dreams today. (ManilaTimes.net)
With her ‘Eat Bulaga!’ family where it all started for the singer-songwriter. The iconic Tito, Vic and Joey with Coney Reyes
ManilaTimes.net photo
There are many ways to give back to society. In the case of gMA Network leading man Alden richards, he prefers giving happy and unforgettable memories to those who need and deserve them most. With his continued success in showbiz since his AlDub tandem with Maine Mendoza was born in 2015, richards has made sure to help out the very individuals who placed him where he is today, as much as he can. And just before the country celebrated National heroes’ Day on Monday, Aug. 28, the amiable celebrity went out of his way to make two groups of hardworking Filipinos feel important, special and valued in very a unique way. Everyday heroes With the help of his loyal sponsor SnowCaps supplements, richards identified two groups of people whose occupations are often difficult, hazardous and most of all unrewarded. Without looking far, the actor gathered street sweepers and lady traffic enforcers whom he considers everyday heroes to an unforgettable day spent with him. For a whole afternoon, these special folks were treated to a long and hearty lunch, and much needed pampering at Blue Water Day Spa in greenhills, San Juan. Just as they thought their welcome down time could not get any better, richards surprised them at the spa to spend time with them to chat and take group photos and selfies. “I’m so happy because I found another opportunity to share my blessings with these hardworking street sweepers, and barangay tanods from my hometown in Bacoor, Cavite. You’ll agree that they need time like this to just relax and be pampered what with the very physical demands of their job. They’re the ones who always outside under the heat of sun and even strong rains,” richards said in an ambush interview. “giving back is very important for me. It’s my whole purpose as an actor because I’ve been given this ability to make people happy. So there shouldn’t be second thoughts in doing that. You must always give back to people
Alden Richards (center) gathered street sweepers and lady traffic enforcers from his hometown in Cavite whom he considers everyday heroes and treated them to a day of pampering.
because they’re the ones who put you where you are today,” he added. richards recalled how it took time for him, nonetheless, to organize activities such as this unique outreach when he was still building on his career. of course, he went by the adage, “Charity begins at home,” making sure to set up his family first, before he finding himself in the position to help others. And so he can keep on giving back, he has started to invest in businesses recently to put his earnings to good use. “It’s my goal this year to put up more businesses. My dad’s been telling me for a while now that since I’ve been given so many blessings, I should make the most of what I have for the future. going into business will help me secure my family and also allow me to pursue my social responsibility.” richards’ first venture has been in the restaurant business. he currently has three branches of Concha’s, which he named after his grandmother. “Concha’s will be up for franchising next year,” he happily shared. “And before the year ends, I’ll be opening a gas station business. I’ve been advised that in doing business you shouldn’t put all your eggs in one basket; you have to diversify because there is no certainty how the demand for one thing will be over time. You should always have other options as a source of income,” richards furthered. Coincidentally, the other half of AlDub—his good friend and
on-screen partner Maine Mendoza has also started going into business—and richards is happy he has her to exchange notes with in this new avenue in their lives. Mendoza is currently running a franchise of a fast food chain she endorses in her hometown, Sta. Maria, Bulacan. “Maine and I always talk about business ventures these days. She would ask me for advice and vice versa. She said she wasn’t really planning on a food business to start with but it was the first to materialize so she went with it. I am very happy she’s already seeing the fruits of her two years in showbiz.” With acting still his main profession, richards of course, was unable to escape questions on current issues hounding him— specifically a netizen’s accusation earlier this month that he has a child out of wedlock. Just as he said on an interview with “24 oras,” he declared, “I have clear conscience; I don’t have a child out of wedlock.” he said that rather than dwelling on negative issues and the bashing these bring online, he would much rather reach out to other people just as he was doing that day. “I actually don’t get affected by controversy or bashing anymore. I have so much in my hands right now that I don’t have the time to even think about negative issues thrown at me. What’s important is that the people around me know what is true,” he ended as he went back to the group of street sweepers and traffic enforcers who always have his back.
Anne Curtis and her ‘Dream Machine’ Asia’s Sweetheart takes on a passion project close to heart by Iza IglesIas ManilaTimes.net
There is a problem in the Philippines that nobody seems to be talking about: dream shaming. This is according to celebrity A-lister Anne Curtis who defines the phenomenon as the act of “discouraging people’s dreams because of their ethnicity, looks, economic status, skills, or anything they have no control over.” According to the Viva Artist Agency talent and ABS-CBN star, she had been a victim of dream shaming when critics called her out for mounting her “Annebisosya” concert series in 2012 and 2014. “To sing before a huge audience was my dream. And I worked hard to make it happen. It was not something that I did for myself, but the Annebisosya concert was also my way of encouraging people to always fight for their dreams in the face of those that say you can’t do it,” Curtis recalled at an interview the day Typhoon Isang swept through the capital.. As such, the 32-year-old took it upon herself to create a passion project that she hopes will end this kind of shaming and empower people to reach for and live out their dreams like she did five years ago. “I’ve always been a dreamer. In my 20 years in showbiz, I have worked hard to reach for my dreams. Now that I’ve been blessed to have achieved most of my dreams, it is now my turn to be a blessing to others through the Dream Machine platform.” officially its founder, Curtis who has quietly done charity work for many years, hopes to meet dreamers and learn more about their aspirations through the website www.dreammachine. ph. From there, the website can help connect these dreamers with generous hearts to make wishes
Anne Curtis, who has quietly done charity work for many years, hopes to meet dreamers and learn more about their aspirations through the website www.dreammachine.ph. ManilaTimes.net photos
come true. There are three categories of dreams that the platform supports—those to do with youth, education and empowerment. “Before the school year started, general roxas elementary School in Quezon City approached us to support in their school renovation. Dream Machine was very happy to help and we are hoping that the renovation will inspire the students to study better,” Curtis shared. To officially kick start her foundation, Curtis will host “The Color run Dream” to make the dreams of disabled children under the auspices of Unicef come true. She has served the international organization as ambassador for the past two years. “We are expecting 10,200 runners on September 3. Proceeds of run will all go to the children with disabilities under Unicef’s care. You see, these children are dreamers too and you’ll be surprised that some of their dreams are not really for themselves but for their families.”
Moreover, the platform will also roll out the red carpet for the dream weddings of three couples on the first quarter of 2018. “Yes we will be make the dream of three couples come true by helping them with their wedding expenses. All they have to do is share their love stories on the website, and the best ones will win the wedding of their dreams,” Curtis continued. Again, for this project, the website is open to donations from the public with Curtis leading the charity. While on the subject of weddings, Curtis was unable to get away from questions about her upcoming wedding to her boyfriend of six years erwan heusaff. It will be remembered that the celebrity chef proposed to the TV host and movie star while on a trip in the United States. ever sweet, Curtis replied, “Sorry but I cannot give out details yet—the exact date and the people who are invited—because we want the wedding to be private. But for sure it will be magical because I will get to spend my life with the man of my dreams from that day on.” Still curious as to what a woman who seems to have everything still dreams of, The Manila Times cornered the “It’s Showtime” host for that final question. “our film ‘Buy Bust’ directed by erik Matti is well on the way, and that’s also a dream of mine to be cast in an action film. Besides that, I think what remains to hope for is to have a healthy family in the future… But I’m sure a new dream will pop up one of these days,” she chuckled. “That being said, I am very, very happy with what I have right now.”
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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUSt 31-SEptEmbER 6, 2017
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Fun sing fest with Solenn Heussaff and Betong Sumaya How does she maintain her Miss U figure? It will be twice the fun and twice the excitement with the grand return of the popular game show, “All-Star Videoke,” beginning September 3 on GMA Network. Hosted by actress-modelsinger-host Solenn Heussaff and funnyman Betong Sumaya, the game features six celebrity contestants or videoke stars vying to outwit one another by filling in the missing words on a song in a videoke-type of presentation. In the event that all players correctly answer the words in each song, a pair of celebrity “laglagers” will choose one player who will be out of the competition. the two remaining contenders will proceed in the semi-final round for a chance to play in the jackpot round. the winning contestant becomes the All-Star Videoke champ and may bring home a cash prize of up to P100,000. A “Super Oke” prize is also up for the win if the winner decides to continuously play in the succeeding weeks. Heussaff revealed that because of her love for music and singing, she is more enthusiastic for the show to begin. “Ito talaga yung first hosting gig ko sa GMA Entertainment so iba yung feeling kasi sobrang bongga yung preparations sa lahat. Nandun yung pressure but the excitement is there for me
by Ricky Lo Philstar.com
Solenn Heussaff and Betong Sumaya
kasi I really like music and singing so dito magagawa ko talaga yun,” the Kapuso actress said. On the other hand, Betong shared how grateful he is to finally be part of the program that has become one of Filipino viewers’ favorite tV programs. “Natutuwa ako kasi kami ni Solenn yung pinagkatiwalaan ng GMA dito sa napakalaking project
IS it true that Wowowin hostproducer Willie Revillame is trying to win her heart by showering her with expensive gifts (brand-new car and branded items, etc.)? Wowowin co-host Ariella Arida, third runner-up in the 2013 Miss Universe pageant, simply shrugs off that question with a smile. “It is not true,” she started this Body talk feature. “Kuya Willie is very professional and he treats everyone the same way. He also likes giving gifts to everyone.” (Contacted for comment, Willie said, “Yes, it’s true. I gave gifts to everyone in Wowowin, and not only to Ariella.”) the truth is that, with her showbiz earnings (also from appearing on shows other than those in GMA), Ariella can afford to buy (if she wants to) anything and everything she wants. “But I’d rather save than splurge on anything,” said Ariella. “Hindi ako magastos.” A Scorpio (Nov. 20, 1988), GMA photo Ariella stands 5’7”, weighs 125 na ito. As we all know, inaaban- lbs., wears small-sized shirt, and gan talaga ito ng viewers noon, measures 34-25-35. di ba? Sobra yung excitement ko How challenging is it to mainkasi following the footsteps of tain your “Miss Universe PhilipAllan K., Jaya and Arnell Ignacio, pines” figure? ang laki ng shoes to fill in so I feel “It’s so challenging to maintain blessed and challenged at the that figure. It requires a lot of effort same time,” he said. and hard work. I need to do cardio “All-Star Videoke” is helmed regularly and weight training to by award-winning director Louie tone my muscles.” Ignacio. (ManilaTimes.net) What kind of diet do you
How’s Duterte as ‘boss’? Director Brillante... PAGE B1 gagawin kung ‘di napag-aralan o napag-isipan. Base sa research, marami na rin kaming nalaman about the tokhang case.” the director pointed out that tokhang is only a portion of the entire campaign against drugs. “Mayroon s’yang nagawang positive at negative. Mayroon din s’yang mabuting nagawa, but meron ding mga taong umabuso.” Does he think tokhang should be continued? “Di ko alam. Depende. Ako personally kung ako tatanungin, I am all for war against drugs. that’s all that I can say. Now, there are experts who know better. that’s the reason why they’re in position to do whatever it takes para ma-eradicate ang drugs. As a filmmaker, ang opinyon ko can only be shown in films because I don’t want to articulate ‘yung aking mga opinyon
kasi mas makikita ‘yun sa pelikula ko kasi mas maraming aspeto ang pwede kong sabihin doon.” He clarified that though he supports the president and his war on drugs, he does not aim to tell whether tokhang is right or wrong in “Amo.” “I don’t want to preach with any of my films because at the end of the day, ang tao ang magdedecide kung ano ang tama o mali. We’re just here to present the stories.” “Amo,” according to him, has been titled as such because in the world of illegal drugs, there are a lot of different “amos” or bosses and they are not just the pushers or the drug lords. Brillante clarified that though Derek Ramsay is the series’ biggest star, Derek is not the “amo” here. In the series, Derek is “neither a good or a bad cop,” said the director.
“He’s a family man and a policeman. As a parent and as a husband, na-fufulfill n’ya ‘yun at pati ‘yung job nya. Pero at the same time, may nga flaws din s’ya. Hindi s’ya perfect na policeman, hindi rin siya perfect na asawa.” Because “Amo” showcases a different “amo” or central character every episode and since it promises to have shocking twists and turns, does Brillante pattern it after the hit HBO series “Game of thrones” (GOt) that has been known for such? After all, GOt is also all about governments and politics. “‘Amo’ has twists and turns, may mga ganon pero wala talaga akong tinignan na ibang shows. Because when we were developing the project, we really based it on several researches. that’s how we put the story together,” Mendoza, who does not watch GOt, affirmed. (Philstar.com)
Miss Universe 2013 3rd runner-up Ariella Arida
follow? “I tried the Ketogenic diet — a diet that’s centered on high fats and protein and low carbs and sugar. It worked for me for two months but I had to stop because it gave me a vitamin deficiency. So now I’m back to my normal diet, which is basically eating everything in moderation but less carbs and sugar as much as possible. I don’t eat rice.” What is for breakfast, lunch and dinner? “For breakfast, I do my own granola bowl, which consists of muesli, chia seeds, coconut flakes, avocado, and skim milk. For lunch, I would have any meat dish paired with a salad, and for dinner, I eat a serving of salad paired with assorted fresh fruits.” How much water do you take per day? “I drink approximately two liters per day.” What vitamins are you taking? “I take multi-vitamins and vitamin C. And since I live a very active lifestyle, which is mostly spent outdoors, I take CosmoSkin GSE Dark Spots Corrector every day to make sure that my skin is always free of blemishes, and melasma.” What workout do you do and how often do you do it? “I do Cardio/HIIt training and weights, three times a week.” What part of your body still needs improvement? “I guess as I grow older, I need to work out all parts of my body.” What part of your body is most vulnerable? “My abs. It’s the indicator that tells me if I gain or lose weight.” Any other health regimen? “Just the basic ones; I keep myself hydrated all the time, take balanced meals, and do regular exercise.”
Philstar.com photos
How do you take care of your skin? “I moisturize my skin every day coupled with a good night’s sleep. I always wash my face and, of course, I take CosmoSkin GSE.” How much sleep do you get per night? “Five to eight hours.” Favorite sleepwear? “An oversized cotton shirt and sometimes pajamas.” How many pillows do you sleep with? “Four.” Last thing that you do before you go to sleep? “Wash my face, take my vitamins, pray, and check my phone.” And the first thing that you do as soon as you wake up? “Wash my face, drink water, and check my phone, too hahahaha!!!” How is your love life? “It’s OK.” Any boyfriend? If none, what qualities do you want in a man? “I am attracted to a man who is family- and goal-oriented, responsible, and outdoorsy.” How do you unwind? “traveling and trips to the beach are my favorite activities if I like to unwind.” How often do you see your dentist, dermatologist, and doctor? “I see them at least once or twice a month.” Favorite hideaway/favorite city? “My favorite hideaway is the beach and my favorite city is tokyo or any other city in Japan.” Three men that you find sexy? “Cristiano Ronaldo, Ashton Kutcher, and Song Joong Ki.” Using only body language, how would you make a man know that you admire him? “I stare directly at his eyes.”
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Philippine Madrigal Singers displays winning form in successful concert ‘Love of Country’, a project of PH Department of Tourism and Asian Journal Group launched with Undersecretary Kat de Castro as special guest by
ANNIE NEPOMUCENO
After a six-year absence in the Los Angeles concert scene, the award-winning Philippine Madrigal Singers, or the “Madz” for short, received thunderous applause from an enthusiastic audience at the Plaza del Sol Performance Hall at CSU-Northridge. It was a full house of adoring fans, and the hall filled with the phenomenal, refined and impressive voices by the choir, led by Mark Anthony Carpio. The Madz gave three encores, with the crowd clamoring for more of the repertoire which included competition pieces in the first half, many of which are written by Madz in-house composers. The lighter side in the second half proved the versatility of the famed choir where John Legend’s “All of Me”, and Jimmy Borja’s “Bukas Na Lang Kita Mamahalin” instantly became crowd favorites. The Madz often spring surprises to its audience, and very well did so with the most applauded songs: Ryan Cayabyab’s “Da Coconut Nut” and the finale, Whitney Houston’s “Queen of the Night.” As if their honed voices were not enough to impress, explosive stage presence and unexpected dance moves by the soloists surely wowed the audience. Songs from various regions of the Philippines are a requisite part of the program, and the Madz has been the source of choral adaptations of such all over the world. Showing the diverse cultures were “Osi-Osi” and “Mamayug Akun” from Maguindanao, “Ili-Ili Tulog Anay” and the tagalog collection of playsongs “Tuksuhan”. A sight to behold — the women in elegant gowns in multiple colors and the men dashing in their barongs — the group filed into its iconic seated semi-circle position. This unique arrangement is borne of the group’s origin, when in 1963, founder Prof. Andrea O. Veneracion and other illustrious names in the U.P. College of
photos by
RICK GAVINO
Music, pulled Renaissance Madrigals from the 1500s from the library. Centuries ago, singing Madrigals was the main form of entertainment, when folks gathered around a table and sang music themselves. In attendance were officials from the Department of Tourism, Undersecretary Katherine De Castro and Tourism Director Richmond Jimenez, who encouraged the audience to travel more and experience the riches of the Philippines, which aside from picturesque destinations, includes a wealth of cultural and artistic activity, as that provided by the Madz, a resident artist of the Cultural Center of the Philippines and a UNESCO Artist For Peace. Launched at the concert was the “Love Of Country” campaign, in partnership with the Asian Journal with CEO Roger Oriel and Editor Christina Oriel in attendance. Balikbayan Magazine Editor-inChief Raphael John Oriel, head of the project, presented the new website Loveofcountry.ph, a platform for global Filipinos to explore travel, invest, and create jobs in the Philippines. The Madz, being a standard bearer and cultural ambassador for the Philippines, has been bringing not only pride to the country because of its unfettered winning streaks, but also international choirs and personalities in the choral music world. The Madz have brought into the Philippines the famed The King’s Singers and The Swingle Singers in sold out joint concerts in Manila, and will soon launch the Asia Grand Prix for Choral Singing Competition. Original works from three composer/arrangers from the ranks of the Madz were presented that evening of August 19: “My Life In You” and “Tenderly” by Fr. Arnold Zamora, former assistant to Ryan Cayabyab and now ordained priest in San Francisco, “Lux Aeterna” and “Magnifikat” by Ily Matthew
Maniano, currently a male alto in this travelling batch, and “Agnus Dei” and “Kaisa-Isa Niyan” by Nilo Alcala, whose works have been performed at the prestigious Disney Hall by the Los Angeles Master Chorale. Alcala is one of the numerous Madz Alumni based in Los Angeles, who also count prominent classical singers Sal Malaki of the LA Opera, Kit Navarro of the Pacific Chorale (OC), Ed Nepomuceno of the Harana Men’s Chorus, Sheen Sanchez of LAYA Children’s choir, and Annie Nepomuceno, performer/producer who managed production and touring of the Madz Southern California stop. The concert is produced by the Philippine Patrons of the Arts USA, who has been responsible for bringing and hosting the Madz since the late 1980s. Founders Dante and Ellen Honorico have long been supporting exemplary Filipino artists deserving of the stage, and the best cultural representatives. The staff of the Valley Performing Arts Center was equally impressed, as most US organizations have not been fully acquainted with Filipino artists. They do recognize the need to serve our increasing demographic of FilipinoAmericans, and our support for excellent artists is what Balikbayan Magazine Editor-in-Chief Raphael John Oriel introduces they need to see. Instrumental the “Love of Country” project. to this is the media support of sponsors Asian Journal and TFC The Filipino Channel. With the Madz unprecedented third qualification for the European Grand Prix for Choral Singing, and being the first in the world to win twice, the Filipino has further cemented its capacity for artistic excellence in Los Angeles. The Madz continue on for the next five months touring the US before heading to Europe for the competition. For tour information, visit www. musicartsevents.com.
Philippine Department of Tourism Undersecretary Katherine De Castro gives welcome remarks after the intermission.
DOT-LA Director Richmond Jimenez, Ellen and Dante Honorico of Philippine Patron of the Arts-USA (PPA-USA) and Asian Journal CEO and publisher Roger Oriel
Madz receives standing ovation at the group’s concert on Saturday, August 19.
Madz with alumni, Harana Men’s Chorus, and Dante and Ellen Honorico of PPA-USA after the performance
Madz being acknowledged by host Annie Nepomuceno
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DOT UnDersecreTary KaT De casTrO On The Up anD cOming DesTinaTiOns TO visiT in The philippines Reiterates call for Fil-Ams to be tourism ambassadors
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atherine “Kat” De Castro, the undersecretary of advocacy and public affairs for the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT), was recently in Los Angeles to attend various community events and meetings to continue promoting the Philippines as a safe and fun destination. She exclusively sat down with the Asian Journal to speak about the DOT’s plans to reach its 7 million tourist arrivals target by the end of the year, how it will engage millennials and up and coming places to visit during your next trip. Asian Journal: What activities have you participated in during your current trip here in Los Angeles? Kat De Castro: I arrived last Friday and the first thing I did was represent Secretary [Wanda Tulfo Teo] at the Philippine Madrigal Singers show on Saturday [August 19]. On the following day, I was one of the judges for Binibining Pilipinas USA. I’ve had back-to-back meetings, including one with NBC executives because we are looking for possible exposure for the Philippines in the Winter Olympics in 2018 and at the same time, come up with a documentary which they can film in the Philippines and show after the games. I’ve also had talks about bringing in legitimate social media influencers — those who have more than a million followers — so it’s going to be a media familiarization tour for them. We’re also looking at sports tourism, for example, with [boxer] Brian Viloria who wants to come up with a series of episodes of him flying back to the Philippines and tracing his roots while trying to inspire boxing among the youth. AJ: How important is it as a representative of the DOT to come to overseas countries like the U.S. where there is a large Filipino population? KDC: The Secretary has been busy with going to different countries all over the world. Coming to LA, we all know has largest Filipino community in this side of the world, so it’s important for us to touch base in terms of even though, you all are Filipinos, you are considered tourists when you come to the Philippines. It’s our mission to ensure that you all go to the Philippines as often as you can to help us achieve our goals. For 2017, our main goal is basically to achieve 7 million tourist arrivals. Last year it was 6 million. Next year, 8 million. So it increases by a million every year. AJ: Right now, how on track is the country with that target?
KDC: Currently, the Philippines is at 30 percent. We’re on track in terms of the fact that it’s half of the year and we’re reaching 3.5 million already. If ever we do fall short, it’ll be at least 2 percent at most. We’re doing everything we can to not just reach it but maybe more than 7 million for this year. AJ: As undersecretary, your focus has been on bringing the second generation of Filipinos to the Philippines. What are your plans to achieve this? KDC: Basically I handle all the non-traditional aspects of the DOT. Before there was no one taking care of social media and digital media. Nobody was there establishing connections with networks in the Philippines and abroad. Those are things I do under my division. If there’s a live event, like the Miss Universe or the World’s Strongest Man, it falls on my lap. If there’s a movie that wants to be shot in the Philippines, that also falls under me too. It’s the new stuff that I do, which is really exciting. The Secretary herself has made an appeal to all the FilipinoAmerican communities here in the states to trace back their roots. We are appealing to their parents to let their kids come to the Philippines and find out about it. There was this case wherein the parents brought back their 13,14-year-old son and went to Boracay. The son said something like, “Why did you leave the Philippines?” These stories are basically the ones we touch on. We are going to come up with a [familiarization] tour for millennials, which would be like the Ambassadors Tour, but something really meant for that demographic. We are also
coming up with travel packages that they can afford. AJ: Internationally, there has been a lot of negative news about the Philippines. Despite that, however, how is the DOT maintaining that it is indeed still ‘more fun in the Philippines’? KDC: We ask for a lot of budget in terms of promoting the Philippines. In fact, for 2018, we were granted P1 billion for branding alone, which shows that the government realizes the importance of marketing the Philippines to the rest of the world because of the not-so-good stuff coming out of the country. But when you compare it to other Southeast Asian countries, the Philippines still has the lowest budget when it comes to promoting the country. For us at the department, we try to come up with ways and means to have a wider reach without spending a lot. It’s pretty hard, but what do we do? We tap the hearts of members of Fil-Am communities
to become ambassadors of the Philippines. AJ: On that note, how can Filipinos who don’t live in the Philippines be that word of mouth marketing for you? KDC: Fil-Ams are very important for us because [non-Filipinos] probably hear a lot of things about the Philippines from the press. President Trump tends to get compared to President Duterte. It’s really up to the Fil-Ams to tell them, ‘You know what? Our country is not that bad at all.’ Sure, we have this thing going on in Mindanao but then, it’s thousands of miles away from the other islands in the country. I’m expecting FilAms to also tell people that we are a country of 7,107 islands. If there’s something happening on one island, there are 6,000 others to choose from. AJ: Yes, Marawi is only a portion of the country. But in popular areas like Metro Manila, Palawan and Boracay, what is being done to ensure that they are still safe? KDC: At the top destinations, you can always expect a lot of security. Not only just that — when it comes to emergencies, you have all the medical teams on standby,
you have the police and army. Palawan right now is very much well-guarded, especially now since we are expecting an influx of tourists to that region because it’s the No.1 island in the world. We have to make sure that every time the tourists come there, they feel safe and in case there are emergencies, they wouldn’t have to worry because we have those resources on standby. I can guarantee it’s safe. AJ: In addition to the beaches, what other activities and destinations is the DOT promoting? KDC: Since there is so much interest in Filipino cuisine, we are promoting the gastronomic delights of the Philippines. We are also promoting the country as a wedding destination, so those are the two things on the Secretary’s agenda. At the same time, cruise tourism is very important since we are an archipelago, it’s something we are hoping will take off in the next few years. AJ: Any specific destinations, not just Palawan or Boracay, that the department is highlighting? KDC: One is Siargao, which is even though, it’s in Mindanao, people still go there because it’s the surfing mecca of the Philippines. The waves there are very much like those on the North Shore of Hawaii. Another one would be Balesin in Luzon, which is now considered a wedding destination as well. Also Vitalis in Santiago, Ilocos Sur. Then, Siquijor, the mystical island. For quite some time, they weren’t able to market Siquijor because of the stigma. If you go there, there are stories about the aswang and mangkukulam. But now, the province is embracing that by promoting that as the mystical island. If you want to let someone fall in love with you, come to Siquijor because there’s a love potion for you. We can make gayuma for you. Now a lot of foreigners are really going for not just the mysticism, but be-
cause there are many unspoiled beaches there. Another would be Romblon, which has a place called the Carabao Island. It’s what Boracay used to look like before they started building those hotels. AJ: What is being done to make tourists stay in Metro Manila, not just treat it like a landing pad before going to another destination in the country? KDC: Our template for Metro Manila is actually Singapore. For Singapore, it has tended to be a connector to other places in Southeast Asia. We’re trying to build Metro Manila in such a way that once you land, you’d like to stay for two more nights because we have the best shopping areas, best food, and of course, the historical part of the city, Intramuros, we are reviving that now. These are steps being done for Metro Manila and hopefully, we will solve the traffic soon. AJ: Your favorite destination in the Philippines? KDC: My favorite destination in the Philippines — I would take out the family ties because I could say Davao or Mindoro because I’m from there. But I would say Batanes, which is on the tip of the Philippines. There are three islands up there: Sabtang, Itbayat and Batan. On a good day, you could actually see Taiwan already. It’s one of the most relaxing places in the Philippines wherein you can commune with God. You can just sit there and look at the stars and clouds. I think it’s one of those provinces that has zero crime rate. If you leave your iPhone on the street, you will still see it there the following day. It’s just unfortunate that it’s a destination you can’t go to all year round. Every time it’s typhoon season, it shuts down completely because that’s where the typhoon exits. But I hope there will be measures done to make it a year round destination because it’s beautiful. n
B august 31-september 6, 2017 • Las Vegas asIaN JOurNaL Your Immigration Solution Atty. NANcy Miller It has been said that immigration laws and regulations are aptly called a labyrinth that only a lawyer could navigate. the courts and the Board of Immigration Appeals have recognized that attorneys are more familiar with the standards and factors an immigration judge examines and can present evidence more effectively. In addition, attorneys have special competence and duties to represent their clients. Attorneys are held to professional standards and obligations. they have a duty to exercise their knowledge and skill in order to present the strongest legally-valid case possible. Recognizing that aliens have difficulty in presenting their cases forcefully and effectively, the
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond MoNette ADevA MAglAyA WHAt does it cost to be kind to others? We often think that being kind costs us something — whether it is time, money, connections or any of what we consider to be our personal resources becoming depleted. But have we ever thought at all about the physical and psychological benefits of acts of kindness that flow right back to us? It’s one of those mysteries of the amazing human body. Recent medical studies indicate that both the giving and receiving of kindness have positive effects on a person’s well being. It helps produce oxytocin, a naturally occurring hormone in the human body that boosts our immune system and causes other good residual effects on blood pressure and the body’s general homeostatic balance. In women, it has positive effects on childbirth and lactation. Studies now seem to prove that it can help in autism and the ability to handle social anxieties. this feel-good substance is produced in the human body by laughter and exercise and ap-
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Why should you be represented by an experienced immigration attorney courts have held that aliens have a due process right to competent legal counsel. Competent legal counsel means that aliens have the right to be represented by an attorney who is knowledgeable and experienced in immigration law because the due process right stems from the attorney’s unique role in removal proceedings and other immigration-related transactions. When the lawyer fails to render competent assistance and the client is prejudiced (harmed) by that failure, the client can file a motion to reopen to seek a new trial. the request is made upon the assertion that the attorney’s representation was outside of the wide range of professionally-competent assistance and was not the result of reasonable professional judgment. It is called ineffective assistance of counsel. Sometimes, for a variety of reasons, aliens hire a non-lawyer (sometimes known as a legal
consultant, an immigration consultant or a notario) to assist them with their immigration problem. In some cases, they believe they are hiring an attorney. In other situations, they know that the person they have hired is not a lawyer. In other cases, the person they are hiring is an attorney but has very little or no prior experience in immigration law. Relying on these people is dangerous. Consultants and notaries do not undergo necessary legal training and are not permitted to appear in court or at Citizenship and Immigration Services offices. Lawyers with no immigration law experience lack familiarity with the complexities of immigration law or procedure. SEQ CHAPtER \h \r 1 Many problems arise when the consultant files an application for an alien. If the alien is statutorily ineligible for the relief, he or she may be issued a Notice to Appear in Immigration Court because the
The power of kindness “Oxytocin, known as the love hormone, can flow naturally with such a simple gesture as a hug.”
parently, as medical studies are showing, also by acts of kindness, specially the pure ones, those that are done without any thought of payback or return. Oxytocin running in our bloodstream is good for the heart and the mind as it counteracts the effects of free radicals wreaking havoc in our bodies as we go through the ravages of the aging process. It does not mean however, that kindness and the oxytocin it produces insures us against aging. All humans will get old and die eventually. C’est la vie. It just means that the residual effects of habitual kindness can substantially slow down the aging process along with a good diet, and regular age -appropriate exercise. Of course, wisely steering clear of moving vehicles, toxic relationships and such known elective, addictive poisons such as cigarette smoking, drugs and alcohol all help to arrive at a high quality of life in one’s sunset years. In the same way joy shows in
our faces, so does grief – perhaps, the latter, even more so, can become deeply etched. During the greed of the nineteen eighties and nineties that spawned such film characters as Gordon Gecko, the saying was, “He who has the most tOYS, WINS!” In contrast, during this current supposedly more informed yet not necessarily wiser age of information, the saying is likely to read. “He who has the most JOYS, WINS! those of us who live in big cities and are subject to the stresses of the fast pace and killer demands of modern life to “perform and deliver” in our home and work environments are more than likely to suffer from diseases and infections. It’s the curse of big city living and the rat race. Because of such demands that can exceed individual human capacities, many feel exhausted and cannot think beyond their personal needs and wants. Remember too that this is the PAGE B7
government believes they are removable (deportable) from the U.S. If the alien does not go to his hearing, he is ordered deported in absentia (in his absence). It doesn’t matter that the alien didn’t get a notice of the hearing. As long as the notice was sent to the alien’s representative or to the address given by the alien, the alien is considered to have received notice. Even if the alien does go to his hearing, consultants are not permitted to represent him in the courtroom. He will be on his own. that is what happened in a 9th Circuit case. their notario told them that they did not need to call witnesses, provide expert testimony or submit documents in support of their application for relief. Not surprisingly, the immigration judge denied their applications. When they obtained competent counsel and filed a motion to reopen based on ineffective assistance of counsel, the
motion was denied. On appeal, the Ninth Circuit said that nonattorney immigration consultants simply lack the expertise and legal and professional duties to their clients that are necessary preconditions for ineffective assistance of counsel claims. the court went on to say that if an alien chooses not to retain an attorney and knowingly relies on assistance from individuals not authorized to practice law, such a voluntary choice will not support a due process claim of ineffective assistance of counsel. the result of that decision is that, if an alien knows the person he is hiring is not a lawyer and relies on that person anyway, no matter how bad the representation is, the alien will not be able to claim ineffective assistance of counsel. (that is also true if the alien decides to represent himself. He cannot do so and then claim that his representation is inadequate because he did not
Health@Heart
12 truths about sleep
PhiliP S. chuA, MD, FAcS, FPcS We do not need sleep False. While science cannot be certain that every animal sleeps, evidence says that most of those in the animal kingdom do. Sleep is very important, especially for us, humans, in order to “recharge” and not suffer the consequences of “low-bat.” Our mental acuity, rationality, concentration, quality of our decision, even attitude and performance, and above all, our sense of well-being are all dependent on how rested and relaxed we are each day. Lack of sleep and rest increases our risk for over-eating, obesity, high blood pressure, heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer. this has been clinically proven, especially among those with untreated sleep apnea. Weekend catch-up those with chronic sleep deprivation, say for 4 or 5 days, cannot make it up by sleeping over the week-end. And the more you lack sleep for days, repeatedly, your body builds up a “sleep debt,” which could be very difficult to compensate. A nightly restful sleep is essential
for health and productivity. Alcohol helps One would think that a “sedative” like alcoholic beverage would help provide better quality sleep and rest, but, in fact, it only helps one to fall asleep faster (although it does the opposite among some individuals), but the sleep is less restorative. Alcohol interrupts the REM cycles and inhibits dreaming, and this impairs sleep and the ability to get a good restful slumber. Going to bed earlier Another myth claims going to bed earlier than your usual would help. that is not true. Forcing yourself to sleep counters your goal, because your body should be ready first. If your nightly routine is to go to bed at 9 PM or 10 PM, following the same schedule helps. Another strategy is to wait till you feel sleepy or tired. Intimacy helps the quality of sleep. Four hours is enough For seniors, especially in their 70s and older, and are retired, four hours might be enough, because they do not have to go to work and could take naps as they need to. For the younger ones, who are actively working daily, 7-9 hours of restful sleep would confer ample energy and maximal benefit for overall quality performance for the day.
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know what he was doing). If the consultant pretended to be an attorney, ineffective assistance may still be an option. Even if the alien was aware that the representative was not a lawyer, the alien may be able to raise other due process claims. those assessments must be made by a competent attorney. If you have an immigration problem, make sure that you place your life into the hands of someone competent. Seek the assistance of a skilled, experienced immigration lawyer. *** Reeves, Miller, Zhang & Diza Law Corporation’s offices are located in Pasadena, Irvine, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Makati City. Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case. (Advertising Supplement)
Individual need for sleep varies. As long as the person wakes up refreshed and rested, the sleep is adequate. Energy is power! Sleep apnea is trivial Anything that impairs sleep is not trivial. Sleep apnea, as I have stated in past columns, “is nothing to snore about.” this is a condition where the person, mostly but not all snorers, involuntarily stops breathing for prolonged periods while asleep and jolted to wakefulness due to severe lack of oxygen. these episodes happen dozens of times during the night, leading to chronic oxygen deficit, severe sleep deficit, and their complications in the form of serious diseases, including cancer. Deaths have been reported among undiagnosed or untreated individuals with sleep apnea. this effectively treatable condition (with the use of a CPAP machine during sleep, which is surprisingly comfortable) should be diagnosed and managed as early as possible before its ill-effects on health and complications develop. Coffee does not hurt that’s another myth. Caffeine, the main ingredient in coffee, tea, chocolate, etc., is a plant alkaloid (1,3,7-trimethylxnthine). Even for those avid coffee drinkPAGE B7
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FOIA request
Immigration Corner Atty. MAriA ritA reyes-stuby And bernAdette bretAnA Doing it right from the start should be the only ‘rule of thumb’ when emigrating to the U.S. Aliens come to this country for a wide array of reasons, the more common is to join their family and reside here or just visit relatives and friends. There is an expectation from the U.S. government that your intention is true, period. After all, as foreigners, we are only requesting to be accommodated. nowadays, the government’s written policies on immigration demand a lot more from immigrants than merely establishing the fact of familial relationship as a reason for continued stay in the U.S. The policies are not new; they have been in the books. There is simply a renewed emphasis on an immigrant’s good moral character or capability to be an asset to society, as vital qualities to consider in approving a benefit applied for. The relevant government agencies have been coordinating resources and streamlining information with the goal to weed out ‘undesirables’. These agencies have now (unlike in the past) the capability of sharing information and records on file with a tap of a finger. As an alien it is life saving to remember and be cognizant of information you shared which are recorded in U.S. government databases, particularly, those used to gain
entry into the country. These are different times. Even U.S. citizens whose immigration has already been cleared, there could still be parent/s, children or sibling waiting to be petitioned. Whether you have a photographic memory or just forgot what is in your records, it is important to obtain copies of application forms submitted where information had been written under oath. Submissions made where “inconsistencies” may show and potentially could be deemed as a ‘lie’ at some future time, has to be looked into. Misrepresentation of facts can cause the denial of a green card or a citizenship application, especially if one has a long history of undocumented stay in the United State What is a FoiA request? The acronym stands for ‘Freedom of information Act’. Such requests would allow aliens to retrieve personal information pertaining to their emigration to the United States. it will allow access to their immigration files. When in doubt about declarations made pertaining to personal circumstances, it is highly advisable to file a FoiA Request before proceeding to apply for the next immigration benefit. Because of the complexity of immigration law, questions in application forms may be too technical for regular Janes or Joes. Without meaning to, facts may be misstated. For instance, an alien would have been placed in removal proceedings before the court prior to obtaining a green card although said proceeding was
later terminated favorably. There are a number of reasons why an alien is placed in removal proceedings ranging from unlawful presence, failed affirmative asylum, crimes committed, etc. Such information would be necessary before proceeding to apply for citizenship. in another instance, a mother who has been in this country for the last 30 years with a U.S. born son who just turned 21 and eligible to petition her as a parent would want to check on information accumulated over the years especially pertaining to her immigration file. Within those 30 years, she could havet (a) applied for benefits as an agricultural worker, (b) applied for a green card under the Reagan’s 1986 Amnesty Program, and (c) had been petitioned as a spouse of a U.S. citizen, but never succeeded in those attempts. A FoiA request is a ‘must’ in such a situation. For those who just want to retain a copy of their immigration files, a FoiA request should equally be in order. For all times, especially uncertain times, it is best to just do the right thing. *** Maria Rita Reyes-Stuby is a licensed attorney in Michigan. She is a graduate of the University of the Philippines College of Law. She specializes in immigration and practices in Las Vegas, Michigan, California and other states. Bernadette Bretana, a graduate of the Ateneo Law School and Ms. Stuby are licensed attorneys in the Philippines. Please call @702-403-4704 or email her at stubylaw@aol.com or go to www.mrstubylaw.com for any questions on this article.
PBSN announces its 2017 scholars PHiLiPPiE Bisayan Society of nevada (PBSn), an association whose membership primarily hails from the Bisayan islands in the Philippines, a group of islands located in the central region, announces that its Scholarship Program is alive and well. Since 1993, it has awarded a total of 188,500.00. it is a onetime grant of $500.00 and is based on academics as well as financial need; it has awarded scholarships to college-bound graduating seniors from high schools in Las Vegas; at one time it awarded a scholarship to a homeless, academically gifted student who was accepted to Syracuse University in upstate new York; there are many stories of academically gifted students with financial need who made it, facing a tough world out there! in these times of rising college costs, the $500.00 grant helps with books, fees, supplies and other things needed in college; every little bit helps. Four years ago, it awarded a full-ride scholarship to a student at the University of the Philippines, Cebu campus who was the daughter of a labandera who since then has graduated; it was a feat indeed; it just goes to show that poverty is not an impediment to one’s dream if given a leg up! This year, there were 17 awardees out of 33 applicants from a variety of high schools in Las Vegas and the Committee as always, worked very hard in selecting the awardees through objectively reviewing total family income, high school grades both weighted and cumulative, community and school activities, an essay whose topic was given simultaneously on the day of the interview so that no one had an advantage over others and of, course the personal interview. This year, the applicants were exceptionally gifted in all categories with others in need of financial
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help. The awardees were recognized and certificates given at the Annual Easter Weekend Picnic which was attended by the members of the association as well as guests, friends and supporters together with the Awardees and their families. The Scholarship Committee felt that they could have given more scholarships but they could only award to the extent that money was raised for the Scholarship Fund; fortunately, they had a few generous donors such as Drs. Sotero and Cecile Fabella, Evelyn and gary Sayre, Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Chinn, the Philippine Medical Association of nevada, Dr and Mrs Manuel gabato, and many other donations
from members and supporters of the Association for which the Scholarship Committee is truly grateful and appreciative. Last but not least, our thanks to Drs. Pat and Rose Jurani for hosting the many meetings and fundraisers at their dance studio, merci! We thank you all and we ask for your continued support. We believe that education is the key to success! The Scholarship Committee is chaired by Belen P. gabato and its members are: Jean Celemin, gary and Evelyn Sayre, Marilou Pardo, Thelma orendain and Dr. Sotero Fabella. Here are the Awardees for the year 2017:
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Asian Chamber of Commerce aims to address challenges in health inspection process for Asian restaurant owners THE Las Vegas Asian Chamber of Commerce was established in 1986 to serve and represent the professional and business interests of Southern nevada’s Asian American and Pacific islander population. The Chamber provides educational, charitable, social and networking opportunities for our members. in addition, the Chamber has been serving our members on important current business issues and to serve as an advocate on these issues. The Asian American community has had a proud history of being small business owners. Many first and second generation Asian Americans have pursued the American dream and opened their small businesses. in fact, many have brought a piece of
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their homeland by opening restaurants. Las Vegas has been blessed with amazing Asian ethic cuisine located not only in our famous Chinatown, but all over the Las Vegas and Henderson valley. one of the major issues affecting these culinary entrepreneurs relates to the Health Department’s licensing process and health inspections. The difficulties stem not from restaurant owners’ unwillingness to comply, but rather from communication issues. These issues could be due to differences in cultural background, communication styles, language barriers, and etc. This can result in substantial and possibly devastating financial losses to the businesses with a failed result.
The Asian Chamber of Commerce recognizes that the licensing and health inspection processes can be difficult for many restaurant owners in the Asian community. The Chamber plans to meet with the Health Department on a regular basis to convey the challenges facing its restaurant members and to find possible solutions to resolve the concerns. The Chamber’s goal is to be an advocate for our restaurant owner members and to reduce the challenges during the health inspection process. if you are a restaurant or small business owner and are interested in the Chamber being an advocate for you, please contact the Chamber at 702-737-4300 by September 8, 2017.
The power of kindness
“Selfies generation.” The trend these days in social media is to focus on the self. Many are becoming stars in their deluded minds and in the web firmament thinking that the number of “likes” they get is proof positive of their popularity and social status. The result is that many are becoming hardwired and focused on just their individual images to the exclusion of others. This self-obsession—today’s equivalent of the biblical golden calf of idolatry—strangely leads to depression. Those who have seen the light, however, and have decided that kindness is beneficial to others as well as themselves, practice
it quite naturally, most times, without fanfare. After all, genuine kindness is often quiet and does not need to go viral. But when acts of kindness captured on video do go viral because a disinterested third party uploaded the clip on the internet and is viewed by millions around the world, this becomes a teachable moment when kindness can become a ripple in a pond. Kindness without an agenda can inspire others to be kind to the people in their immediate spheres of influence. it can inspire some to be kind to those that orbit around them daily at home and at work. You could say that kindness, like the flu, is truly contagious. Unlike the flu virus though, kindness is good
Calendar of Events across
all around. A caveat though…… The hormone oxytocin is not a panacea for all kinds of social anxiety problems. Too much of it when taken by prescription, like any other substance on earth taken to extremes, can cause ordinary people to become oversensitive to the emotions of others resulting in a skewed perception of reality. Perhaps, the best ways for this love hormone to flow in one’s bloodstream are still the natural ways through laughter, exercise and kindess. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com
America
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Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School international reunion in Las Vegas Come and celebrate with RMCHS alumni and guests for the third biannual international homecoming. Sing, dance, party, share precious memories and join the fun from Friday, September 1 to Monday, September 4 at The Orleans Hotel and Casino at 4500 W. Tropicana Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89103. Join the golf tournament in the morning of Saturday, Sept. 2 and then wear your best (black and white) for a dinner dance later that evening. Make this event an opportunity to reunite with your own batchmates, watch a show, visit tourist spots, and stroll along the Las Vegas Strip. For more information, visit the RMCHS 2017 INTL REUNION Facebook page.
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Liliwenos reunion in Las Vegas, NV Calling all Liliwenos living all around the world! There will be a three-day reunion in Las Vegas, NV starting with a picnic on Friday, Sept. 15 at Silverado Ranch Park. On Saturday, Sept. 16, it is a dinner/dance party at the Palace Station (2411 W. Sahara Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89102) at 5 p.m. The attire is semi-formal and costs $50 / person. Souvenir t-shirts cost $10 regardless of size. Deadline of payment for both the reunion and t-shirt cost is August 31 to be sent to Ms. Nerri Monteagudo at 9252 Bronze River, Las Vegas, Nevada 89149. On Sept. 17, participants are free to explore the Strip and other Vegas activities. For more information, please contact Bob and Nerri Monteagudo at (702) 339-3838; Carmen P. Manguin (702) 526-8005; Loida Borgonos at (201) 654-5482; or Fred Polistico at (818) 527-3476.
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26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture in Echo Park
12 truths about sleep
ers, caffeine at night impairs sleep to one degree or another. Everything and all other factors being equal, those who do not drink coffee at night get more restful sleep. others cannot even take caffeine in the afternoon without sleep impairment at night. it takes our system 5-7 hours to break down 50 percent of the amount of caffeine we imbibe, so if one drinks caffeine at 1 PM, half of the caffeine is still in the body by 5 or 7 PM. Bedtime snack is good This popular notion is probably true, so long as it is 200 calories or less for pre-bedtime snack (total daily calories adjusted among diabetics). Carbohydrates with protein-rich food increase the level of tryptophan, especially in the brain, which is converted by the body to serotonin, the natural sleep inducing substance manufactured in the brain and 80-90 percent in the intestines. For those who are trying to lose weight, this snack is out. Our brain sleeps with us not true. While it seems our heart contracts continuously without resting, it actually rests for about 0.8 seconds in between beats. on average, it beats about 80 per minute, 4,800 per hour,
LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUSt 31-SEptEmbER 6, 2017
115,200 a day, 42,048,000 a year, or 3,363,840,000 times for the lifetime of an 80-year-old person. our brain, on the other hand, does not sleep while we sleep. it is always on, working vigilantly, but also “recharging” as it maintains and protects our bodily function, like circulation, breathing, etc. Naps are a waste of time For those who have the time and luxury for a nap, it is a healthy habit. in Spain, it is called siesta, in italy, riposo, in the Philippines, idlip. nap is an accepted part of the culture in the Mediterranean, Southern Europe, and in countries like the Philippines, greece, Spain, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico, and nigeria, not all naps provide a refreshing rest. A 20minute siesta would provide a refreshing boost in energy and mental acuity, but a longer one might cause mental drowsiness and sense of fatigue. The television helps This myth is wrong. Watching the television does not help. Peace of mind is fundamental. it excites our brain so much, ii impairs the quality of rest we get. We should avoid watching the TV at least an hour before going to bed. The same thing is true with cellphones, computers,
and other digital gadgets. This rule applies even more so for children. Another distraction to avoid is light, especially the blue light from our digital gadgets Not sleepy, stay in bed Wrong. When one could not sleep, for any reason, even among insomniacs, one may stay in bed so long as they feel comfortable and relaxed. if this pleasant feeling lingers, then remain in bed till you fall asleep. However, if the inability to fall asleep is prolonged, laying awake for half an hour or more, and is giving you anxiety and frustration, it is best to get out of bed and do your favorite chores even in the middle of the night. Some of the best personal projects are accomplished this way. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com
Save the date! The 26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) hosted by Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) is back at Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, October 14. Expect a whole day filled with art exhibits, entertainment, and Fil-Am vendors. More details and special guests to be announced. For more information, please visit: http://www.filamarts.org/.
18th annual Asian Small Business Expo in Alhambra, CA On Saturday, Oct. 14, the 18th annual Asian Small Business Expo will be held at the Almansor Court Conference Center (700 S. Almansor St., Alhambra, CA 91801), featuring free workshops, exhibitors, networking opportunities, and more! Jonny Hwang, founder of 626 Night Market, is the featured guest speaker with special guest, Jerome Horton, chairman of the California Board of Equalization. It is FREE to attend! The Asian Small Business Expo is the only business-to-business expo that engages the Asian business community and brings this growing economic force into the mainstream to connect and utilize your company and its services. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with small businesses, market your organization and tap into a network of entrepreneurs, service providers, financial organizations, franchises and governmental and legislative representatives. For more information, please visit http://www.apisbp.org/expo.html.
26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture in Echo Park Save the date! The 26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) hosted by Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) is back at Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, October 14. Expect a whole day filled with art exhibits, entertainment, and Fil-Am vendors. More details and special guests to be announced. For more information, please visit: http://www.filamarts.org/.
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NaFFAA to celebrate 20th anniversary in Washington, DC The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) turns 20 years old this year. This October, several events are being planned to celebrate this milestone, which coincides with the national observance of Filipino American History Month. They will culminate with NaFFAA’s 20th Anniversary Gala, to be held at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, DC on Saturday, October 21. With its theme “NaFFAA 2.0: One Voice, Four Million Strong,” NaFFAA will recognize the legacy and accomplishments of the organization over the past 20 years, and highlight its comprehensive vision to unite and amplify the voices of the four million Filipinos living in the United States. “NaFFAA 2.0” represents how NaFFAA is honoring its past while forging a new forward-thinking and balanced approach in uniting, engaging, and empowering diverse Filipino American individuals and community organizations through leadership development, civic engagement, and advocacy. To learn more about NaFFAA or to purchase tickets for the 20th Anniversary Gala, please visit www. naffaa.org.
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